Trying to understand just what kind of difference these differences make is a work in progress. We always rely on past performance to some extent, but with new elements, personalities, and timelines, that’s of limited value. Then there are the players which have no relevant background from which to draw any sharp conclusions, such as Zion, Hayes, Didi, Alexander-Walker. Preseason amount to two things: “that was fun,” and “these are the injuries.” Summer League, NCAA, International, and other professional leagues are against weaker competition, at least among the lesser talents getting heavy minutes, and are different games in meaningful ways.
Plus Ça Change
