Two weeks into the NBA season, a panic meter analysis highlights concerns for the New York Knicks, Orlando Magic, Memphis Grizzlies, Dallas Mavericks, and New Orleans Pelicans based on their early records. While the Knicks sit at 4-3 with minimal worry, the Pelicans' 0-6 start draws maximum alarm. The assessment considers records, stats, injuries, and team dynamics as of Monday's games.
The NBA season has started with many teams meeting expectations, but five squads face early scrutiny in this panic meter, rated from 1 (no concern) to 10 (full alarm).
New York Knicks (4-3)
After a 2-0 start and a three-game losing streak, the Knicks have won two straight. Their overhauled offense ranks fifth in passes per game (up from 20th) and fourth in 3-point attempt rate (up from 28th). The most-used lineup ranks 40th in minutes played, signaling rotation changes among the same core players. Compared to the 2020-21 Bucks, who dropped to third in the East en route to a title, the Knicks prioritize playoff success over regular-season dominance. Early health issues aside, panic is low at 2 out of 10.
Orlando Magic (3-4)
Shooting woes persist, with the Magic 26th in 3-point attempt rate and 22nd in conversion. New additions struggle: Kentavious Caldwell-Pope at 34% from deep (down from 39%), Desmond Bane at 25.8% (down from 41%, with attempts per 100 possessions dropping from 10.2 to 6.9), and Tyus Jones 2-of-13 (from nearly 38%). Playmaking lags, converting 23.7 of 43.7 potential assists (54%), ranking 21st in passes and 23rd in potential assists. Defense excels with Jalen Suggs (94th percentile) and Jonathan Isaac (96th percentile) but falls to 17th without them; opponents shoot 19.4% from 3 with Isaac on the floor. Panic meter: 6 out of 10.
Memphis Grizzlies (3-5)
Ja Morant faces trade speculation due to declining rim attacks, poor shooting, and defensive issues, plus lineup inconsistencies. Three-point shooting is poor: five of seven players with 20+ attempts at 27.4% (below career averages). Injuries to Ty Jerome, Scottie Pippen Jr., Brandon Clarke, and Zach Edey hurt depth. Upcoming schedule includes home games vs. Rockets, Mavericks, Thunder, then road trips to New York, Boston, Cleveland, and San Antonio. Morant played a season-high 35 minutes in a Monday loss to the Pistons, with increased touches under coach Tuomas Iisalo. Panic meter: 7 out of 10.
Dallas Mavericks (2-5)
No standout performers: Anthony Davis averages fewest points since 2014, rebounds since 2022, and blocks ever; Cooper Flagg has the seventh-worst plus-minus; Klay Thompson sixth-worst with career-low shooting. Rebounding ranks 27th, blocks average; defense eighth but allows fifth-most restricted-area shots and sixth-most non-restricted paint shots. Coach Jason Kidd said, "We just can't wait to get Kai back at some point. Hopefully it's in the year '25, not '26. But we'll see what happens." Post-Luka Dončić trade, the team lacks direction. Panic meter: 8 out of 10.
New Orleans Pelicans (0-6)
Half of losses by 30+ points, fastest three such in NBA history. Ranks 27th in offense, 29th in defense and rebounding. Zion Williamson shoots 61.1% within three feet (below prior 66.8% minimum); only Herb Jones above league-average from 3. No top-40 assist leaders; Trey Murphy in career-worst shooting. Traded unprotected first-round pick for a rookie averaging 17.5 minutes. Rumors swirl around coach Willie Green, but no changes yet. Panic meter: 10 out of 10.