By Kristian Cuaresma

With a 2-1 record, NetsGC is currently the 12th seed in the 2023 SLAM OPEN bracket. Despite every professional team guaranteed a spot in bracket play, this final week of group play should give fans a clear picture of what the opening round looks like.

NetsGC has played nearly every opponent this week. Since teams are now familiar with each other’s initial strategies, victories may favor those who make the best adjustments.

Expected Lineup (Raptors Uprising GC)

Guard: Mooch

Forward: Haam

Forward: Putback

Player to Watch

Haam – 4.4 pts, 0.6 reb, 0.4 ast, 0.6 stl, 86% field-goal

One reason why Raptors Uprising GC fell behind 2-0 in their series with NetsGC last week was due to their roster decisions. After sweeping Pacers Gaming 3-0 with Mooch, Haam, and Putback, Raptors Uprising GC subbed out Haam for Gazulli. When they returned to their original trio, Raptors Uprising GC reeled off two straight wins to force a final game. Raptors Uprising GC will likely stay the course, but it will not be surprising if they make another attempt to move their 10th overall pick in the 2023 draft back into the lineup.

 

Expected Lineup (Lakers Gaming)

Guard: Ryan1of1/Duck

Forward: FutureClutch

Forward: Krazy

Player to Watch

Ryan1of1 – N/A

Lakers Gaming are the only team who have yet to play a game this season. Their debut is highly anticipated mainly due to the arrival of Ryan1of1. Selected with the number three pick in the 2023 NBA 2K League Draft, Ryan1of1 is considered to be one of the future faces of the league. He is one of the most decorated amateur players of all time and went one pick after NetsGC rookie point guard Greens. The showdown should be electric.

 

Expected Lineup (Pacers Gaming)

Guard: Greenlight

Forward: Range

Forward: JaySnags

Player to Watch

Greenlight – 5.7 pts, 0.7 ast, 0.6 to, 58% field-goal, 31% three-point

It was an opening week to forget for Pacers Gaming. They enter week two as one of four teams – not including Lakers Gaming – that are winless. Indiana has made the most of its slow start by experimenting with numerous lineups. Unfortunately, there has yet to be a trio that has stood out or garnered enough success to seriously consider. Greenlight was selected with the number five overall pick in the 2023 NBA 2K League Draft and is the favorite to assume lead guard responsibilities.