Yes, it's only november, but it's an 8th of the season. Also, lest people forget what life was like from jump last season (most look at the beginning of last season as the highlight, pre-injuries) I wanted to remind people how much better we look now than we did. Note: I'm using 13-14 final opponent records everywhere they're needed.
13-14 Season:
Game 1: LOSS 95-90 Vs. INDIANA
Game 2: LOSS 90-110 Vs. Orlando
Game 3: WIN 105-84 Vs. Charlotte
Game 4: LOSS 98-104 Vs. Phoenix
Game 5: WIN 99-84 Vs. Memphis
Game 6: WIN 96-85 Vs. LA Lakers
Game 7: LOSS 94-101 Vs. Phoenix
Game 8: LOSS 95-116 Vs. LA Lakers
Game 9: LOSS 105-111 Vs. Utah
Game 10: WIN 135-98 Vs. Philadelphia
Record: 4-6
Losses Vs. Sub .500 Teams: 3
Wins Vs. +.500 Teams: 2
Expected Final Wins: 32.8
Avg. Win differential: 21
Avg. Loss Differential:10.83
Avg. Opponent 13-14 Final Record: 36.6-45.4
20+ Pt Losses: 2
14-15:
Record: 6-4
Losses Vs. Sub .500 Teams: 1* (That Loss is Cleveland)
Wins Vs. +.500 Teams: 2
Expected Final Wins: 49.2
Avg. Win Differential: 14.66
Avg. Loss Differential: 8.25
Avg. Opponent 13-14 Final Record: 40.9-41.1
20+ Pt Losses: 0
Yes I realize these numbers aren't exactly great statistical indicators, but in the interest of injecting some optimism in those caught up in the moment I think this offers a good outlook on where we are in comparison to last year.
-We're on an (early) pace to make the playoffs
-Our schedule has been much tougher than last year
-We haven't been blown out AT ALL
-We haven't lost a game to anyone not expected to make the playoffs
-3 of our four losses came against expected playoff teams on the road.
-We have a signature road win
Would you rather never give up leads when you're up 10+..... but get blown out in 15% of your games?
Teams throughout history have become playoff staples by beating who they're supposed to, nothing more. Protect the home court, beat up on sub-.500 teams, play the giants tough. I would've expected a lot less hate with this start.