It is an interesting point in the season. We have played 74 games and are 58-16, +11.4 point differential per game, +11.7 NRTG (per 100 possessions).
We were 29-8 in the first 37 games and 29-8 in the second 37 games. +10.4 point differential in the first 37 games, + 12.3 point differential in the second 37 games. Net Rating 10.3 vs. 13.0. The Net rating is impacted by a reduction in average pace, 98.97 to 97.15, so we slowed it down some in the second half while increasing the point differential.
The 38th game was the MIL game where we lost by 33 points, so that game is kind of an inflection point in terms of both +/- and Net Rating. I can't find exact numbers but I believe our strength of schedule was tougher the first half of the season. If I do this recap after say 76 games, that game would be in the first 38 games and the difference between the first half and second half numbers would change quite a bit.
As we close out the season, there is going to be a point where the games are skewed by teams tanking or resting for the playoffs. To this point, I feel like the games continue to be "real". To me it is pretty surprising how consistent the team has been. Our record is exactly the same but our point differential and NRTG have both improved for the second half of the 74 completed games. Not sure if this means the team is better as the SOS has been easier.
What do people think? Are we ready for the playoffs? Is the team playing well enough to win a title? Are we coasting some in the second half of the season? Is there a switch to flip for the playoffs?