Top 6 NBA Trends Impacting This Week

Bassyonni

ago 2 hours

The NBA landscape is shifting as the 2025-26 season progresses, with several key trends emerging. This week, we will analyze notable developments, including the potential impact of Victor Wembanyama’s injury on the San Antonio Spurs, the surprising effectiveness of the Atlanta Hawks without Trae Young, and the Houston Rockets’ unique offensive style.

1. Spurs’ Challenge Without Wemby

Victor Wembanyama, the star center for the San Antonio Spurs, is sidelined due to a left calf strain. His injury poses a significant challenge for the team, currently holding a 9-4 record. Last season, the Spurs struggled severely without him on the court. However, this year’s team appears better equipped to cope.

Wembanyama’s +/- impact: +9 points per 100 possessions with him, only +2 without.
Luke Kornet stepped up effectively as a backup center.
De’Aaron Fox has emerged as a crucial offensive leader.

2. Hawks Thrive Without Trae Young

Meanwhile, the Atlanta Hawks have flourished in Trae Young’s absence. The talented point guard is out due to a knee sprain and has missed the last nine games. Surprisingly, the Hawks are performing better without him, posting a 7-2 record in his absence, including five consecutive wins.

The Hawks set a franchise record by sweeping a four-game Western road trip.
With Young off the floor, Atlanta’s offensive rating dramatically improved to 114.4 points per 100 possessions.
The team’s net rating shifted from -9.2 with Young to +6.4 without him.

3. Houston Rockets’ Brute Force Offense

The Houston Rockets, boasting a 9-3 record, are leading the league in offensive efficiency while taking the fewest three-point shots. Their strategy focuses on rebounding and scoring efficiently in the paint.

Kevin Durant leads the charge with an astonishing scoring average of over 26 points per game.
The Rockets reclaim over 49% of their missed layups, showcasing dominance on the boards.
They rank first in both second-chance points and offensive rebounding rates, a feat not seen in over three decades.

4. Surging Free Throw Rates in the NBA

Free throw rates have increased notably this season compared to last, with an average of eight more free throw attempts per game. This trend was highlighted by a recent game where 66 fouls resulted in 84 free throw attempts, disrupting the flow of play.

All 30 NBA teams are currently averaging over 20 fouls per game.
The overall free throw rate has increased from a historical low of 18.9% to 22.8% this season.

5. Detroit Pistons’ Physical Dominance

The Detroit Pistons have made headlines with their impressive start, currently standing at 12-2. Their success is rooted in a physically imposing frontcourt featuring Jalen Duren and Isaiah Stewart.

Pistons average 58.3 points per game in the paint.
The team allows only 43.2 points by opponents in the paint, putting them in strong defensive positions.

6. Nikola Jokic’s Unprecedented Season

Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokic is having a historic season. He leads the NBA in both rebounding and assists, a feat unmatched in NBA history.

He averages an incredible 1.49 points per shot and boasts efficient shooting splits.
In a recent back-to-back, Jokic shot 34 for 42 from the field, showcasing his offensive prowess.

As these trends evolve, NBA fans can expect shifting dynamics and exhilarating performances as teams navigate through the season.