Credit: NBA.com
Darren's Takes, NBA Week 2/10
Published: Tuesday, February 18, 2025
by Darren Worrell
There were no Darren’s takes last week during week 16. But last week was highlighted by trades that shocked the NBA basketball world. Luka Doncic, who has been a part of the Mavericks for six seasons, is now a member of the Los Angeles Lakers. Anthony Davis, who played on the Lakers for six seasons as well, is now a member of the Dallas Mavericks.
There have been many trades that have commenced so far, but this was the most unexpected one; it told everyone in the league that at any moment anything can happen. It is time for Darren’s Takes about week 17, let us dive into it.
Monday’s Key Games
Utah Jazz vs Los Angeles Lakers
The Utah Jazz come into this matchup struggling, sitting at 14th in the Western Conference with a 12-39 record. They are coming off a 130-110 loss to the Clippers, and this season just has not gone their way. That said, this team still has some serious young talent.
Lauri Markkanen is their guy, averaging 19.3 points and 6.2 rebounds, and they have got seven other players averaging double figures. Their depth has helped them stay competitive, even if the wins have not been there. They have kept things close against teams like the Warriors and Pacers, so the Lakers cannot sleep on them.
The Lakers enter this matchup with a 31-19 record, holding the fifth spot in the Western Conference. They have been on fire, winning nine of their last 10 games. Their most recent victory came against the Indiana Pacers, where Austin Reaves erupted for a career-high 45 points. The Lakers are looking to keep this impressive run going.
Following Anthony Davis’ departure, the team is now led by LeBron James and his new partner, Luka Doncic. Doncic leads the team in scoring with 28.1 points, along with 7.8 rebounds and 8.3 assists. James is right behind him, averaging 24.5 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 9.0 assists. The team's depth has been a key factor, with Reaves, Jarred Vanderbilt, and others stepping up to help the Lakers maintain their strong position.
Key Matchup: Luka Doncic vs Lauri Markkanen
With Luka Doncic now on the Los Angeles Lakers, this is his first real test in his new uniform comes against the Utah Jazz and their star forward, Lauri Markkanen. There is no doubt that all eyes will be on Luka and how he adjusts to playing alongside LeBron and the Lakers’ new system.
Then, looking at Lauri, he has proven himself as a legit number one option in Utah, and he will not back down from a superstar challenge. We will have to see how this plays out.
Darren’s Prediction: The Lakers just have too much firepower. With LeBron and Luka leading the charge, I do not see the Jazz being able to stop them. Luka will put on a show in his first real test as a Laker, and the Jazz simply will not have enough firepower to keep up. Final score, Lakers 115 to Jazz 97
Wednesday’s Key Game
San Antonio Spurs vs Boston Celtics
The San Antonio Spurs enter this matchup with a 22-28 record, sitting 12th in the Western Conference. While their record is not the best, they have been playing solid basketball. The team is still led by Victor Wembanyama, who has been a revelation, averaging 24.3 points, 10.9 rebounds, and 3.9 blocks.
Recently added to the squad is De’Aaron Fox, who in just three games has already made an impact, ranking second in scoring with 18.3 points, along with 9.3 assists and 2.7 steals. Fox has been the missing piece the Spurs needed. Plus, they have great depth, with eight other players contributing to double figures, making them a real threat to the Celtics.
The Boston Celtics come in with a 37-16 record, sitting at second in the Eastern Conference. They have been strong all season, going 7-3 in their last 10 games, and recently dominated the Knicks 131-104, with Jayson Tatum putting up 40 points.
Tatum continues to lead the team in scoring (26.4 PPG), rebounds (8.6 RPG), and assists (5.6 APG), but Jaylen Brown is not far behind, averaging 22.4 points and leading the team in steals. The Celtics’ depth has been crucial, with players like Jrue Holiday, Derrick White, and Payton Pritchard stepping up to keep the team firing on all cylinders.
Key Matchup: De’Aaron Fox vs Jayson Tatum
De’Aaron Fox has made his mark with the San Antonio Spurs, bringing his lightning speed and playmaking to the team. He will be looking to use his quickness to break down the Celtics' defense and create scoring chances for his teammates. On the other side, Jayson Tatum is a force for the Boston Celtics, known for his ability to score from anywhere and his solid defense. This one is about speed vs starpower.
Darren’s Prediction: The Spurs are a talented team, but the Celtics have been consistently dominating. Wembenyama and the Spurs will put up a good fight, but it just will not be enough. The final score, Celtics 112 to Spurs 105.
That is, it for this week’s edition of Darren’s Takes! Be sure to check back next week for more matchups, predictions, and hot takes. Have an amazing week and enjoy the games!
Darren Worrell can be reached at darren.worrell@student.shu.edu.Posted in: sports,