NBA Preview

Atlanta Hawks 

Offseason/upcoming season  preview: The Atlanta Hawks had a transformative 2024 offseason. They secured French talent Zaccharie Risacher as the No. 1 draft pick, setting him up as a key player for the future. A major move was trading away Dejounte Murray, signaling a shift towards developing younger talent. In free agency, they retained key contributors, such as Vit Krejci, and signed Seth Lundy on a two-way contract. However, the future of players like Clint Capela and De’Andre Hunter remains uncertain, indicating ongoing adjustments for the roster.

Notable signings/acquisitions: Dominick Barlow, Dyson Daniels, Larry Nance Jr, David Roddy, Cody Zeller.

Draft: Zaccharie Risacher (No. 1 pick), Nikola Djurisic (No. 43)

Re-signings: Vit Krejci

Departures: Saddiq Bey (to Wizards), Bruno Fernando (waived), AJ Griffin (to Rockets), EJ Liddell (to Suns), Dejounte Murray (to Pelicans)

Boston Celtics

Offseason/upcoming season  preview: The Boston Celtics enter the 2024-25 season poised to defend their NBA title after a dominant 64-win campaign and securing their 18th championship. With all key players returning, including Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, plus the addition of Lonnie Walker IV in free agency, Boston is aiming for back-to-back titles. Key re-signings like Tatum and Derrick White, alongside the strong leadership of coach Joe Mazzulla, ensure the team’s continuity. However, potential issues include Al Horford’s age (turning 39) and Kristaps Porzingis’ injury history. Boston remains the favourites, with the championship likely going through them.

Notable signings/acquisitions: Lonnie Walker, will add pure offense. He can score on all levels.

Draft: Baylor Scheierman (No. 30 pick), Anton Watson (No. 54)

Re-signings: Sam Hauser, Luke Kornet, Neemias Queta, Jayson Tatum, Xavier Tillman, Derrick White

Departures: Svi Mykhailiuk (to Jazz)

Brooklyn Nets

Offseason/upcoming season  preview: The Brooklyn Nets had a busy 2024 offseason, focusing on rebuilding for the future. The headline move was trading Mikal Bridges to the Knicks, gaining five first-round picks and an unprotected swap, along with Bojan Bogdanovic. They re-signed Nic Claxton to a front-loaded four-year, $97 million deal and added Shake Milton and Ziaire Williams in trades. The hiring of Jordi Fernandez as head coach is also seen as a positive shift. Overall, the offseason sets the Nets up well for a fresh start

Notable signings/acquisitions: Bojan Bogdanovic, Shake Milton and Ziaire Williams

Draft: none

Re-signings: Nic Claxton, Keon Johnson, Trendon Watford

Departures: Keita Bates-Diop (to Knicks), Mikal Bridges (to Knicks), Lonnie Walker IV (to Celtics)

Charlotte Hornets

The 2024 offseason marked the first under new ownership (Gabe Plotkin and Rick Schnall) and new GM Jeff Peterson. The Hornets drafted French prospect Tidjane Salaün (No. 6 pick) and hired coach Lee, a two-time NBA champion assistant. They also extended Miles Bridges despite off-court issues. The focus this season will be on player development, particularly for Ball, Miller, and Mark Williams, as the team rebuilds for future success.

Offseason/upcoming season  preview: The Charlotte Hornets struggled last season due to LaMelo Ball’s ankle injury, limiting him to 22 games as they missed the playoffs for the eighth consecutive year. Rookie Brandon Miller was a bright spot, earning All-Rookie honors and averaging 17.3 points per game.

Notable signings/acquisitions: Coach Charles Lee, Taj Gibson, Josh Green, Anton Watson

Draft: Tidjane Salaun (No. 6 pick), KJ Simpson (No. 42)

Re-signings: Miles Bridges, Seth Curry

Departures: Coach Steve Clifford

Chicago Bulls

 Offseason/upcoming season  preview: The Chicago Bulls made major roster changes in the 2024 offseason, focusing on becoming younger and more dynamic. They traded away veterans like DeMar DeRozan (to the Sacramento Kings) and Alex Caruso (to the Oklahoma City Thunder), receiving younger players such as Josh Giddey and Chris Duarte in return.

Additionally, Andre Drummond left for the Philadelphia 76ers, and Javonte Green joined the New Orleans Pelicans. In the draft, the Bulls picked forward Matas Buzelis with the 11th pick, hoping he will be a future cornerstone. This reflects the team’s commitment to rebuilding around young talent after a disappointing 39-43 season.

Notable signings/acquisitions: Chris Duarte, Josh Giddey, Jalen Smith.

Draft: Matas Buzelis (No. 11 pick)

Re-signing: Patrick Williams

Departures: DeMar DeRozan (to Kings), Alex Caruso (to Thunder), Andre Drummond (to 76ers), Javonte Green (to Pelicans)

Cleveland Cavaliers

 Offseason/upcoming season  preview: The Cleveland Cavaliers focused on maintaining their core talent during the 2024 offseason, re-signing key players Donovan Mitchell, Darius Garland, and Jarrett Allen while parting ways with coach J.B. Bickerstaff after a playoff exit. They brought in Kenny Atkinson as the new head coach and selected Jaylon Tyson with the 20th pick in the draft.

Last season, injuries plagued the team, yet they still managed to secure a 48-win season and reach the Eastern Conference semifinals. Despite questions about Garland’s fit alongside Mitchell, the Cavs are optimistic about their chances, aiming for a healthy 2024-25 campaign to challenge the East’s elite. With the potential for a strong season, Cleveland hopes to improve its standing by leveraging the talent and depth they’ve retained

Notable signings/acquisitions: Coach Kenny Atkinson

Draft: Jaylon Tyson (No. 20 pick)

Re–signings: Jarrett Allen, Donovan Mitchell, Evan Mobley

Departures: Coach JB Bickerstaff

Dallas Mavericks

 Offseason/upcoming season  preview: The Dallas Mavericks are banking on Klay Thompson to enhance their championship aspirations in the 2024-25 season. After a successful 2023-24 campaign that saw them reach the NBA Finals, the Mavs have made several offseason moves to bolster their roster. Key additions include Thompson, along with Spencer Dinwiddie, Quentin Grimes, and Naji Marshall, while retaining Markieff Morris and Brandon Williams. They lost Josh Green, Tim Hardaway Jr., and Derrick Jones Jr. to other teams.

With solid defensive players and a well-rounded roster, the Mavericks are poised to be strong contenders in the Western Conference. However, replicating their success will be challenging given the competitive landscape. 

Notable signings/acquisitions: Spencer Dinwiddie, Quentin Grimes, Naji Marshall, Klay Thompson.

Draft: Melvin Ajinca (No. 51 pick)

Re-signings: Markieff Morris, Brandon Williams

Departures: Josh Green, Tim Hardaway Jr, Derrick Jones Jr.

Denver Nuggets

 Offseason/upcoming season  preview: In the 2024-25 season, the Denver Nuggets are relying on Jamal Murray to elevate his performance to an All-Star level if they want to remain competitive in the Western Conference. The offseason saw the Nuggets re-sign DeAndre Jordan and add veterans Dario Saric and Russell Westbrook. They drafted DaRon Holmes II with the 22nd pick but lost key player Kentavious Caldwell-Pope to the Orlando Magic and Reggie Jackson to the Philadelphia 76ers.

The Nuggets’ success this season hinges on Murray’s ability to bounce back and perform at a high level. With Jokic’s skills leading the team, the Nuggets could achieve a 50-win season, but reaching the Finals may prove difficult given the stiff competition in the league

Notable signings/acquisitions: Dario Saric, Russell Westbrook.

Draft: DaRon Holmes II (No. 22)

Re-signing: DeAndre Jordan

Departures: Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (to Magic), Reggie Jackson (to 76ers)

Detroit Pistons

 Offseason/upcoming season  preview: In the offseason, the Pistons re-signed Cunningham and Simone Fontecchio, while also bringing in veterans Tobias Harris and Tim Hardaway Jr. They hired J.B. Bickerstaff as the new head coach and added Malik Beasley, Paul Reed, and rookie Ron Holland, the fifth overall pick in the 2024 draft. Departures included Buddy Boeheim, Taj Gibson, and James Wiseman.

With new leadership under GM Trajan Langdon, the Pistons aim to rebuild and provide fans with hope for the future. While a playoff push seems unlikely, a focus on developing young talent and improving team dynamics could help the Pistons regain competitiveness.

Notable signings/acquisitions: Malik Beasley, Coach J.B. Bickerstaff, Tim Hardaway Jr, Tobias Harris, GM Trajan Langdon, Wendell Moore Jr, Paul Reed.

Draft: Ron Holland (No. 5 pick), Cam Spencer (No. 53)

Re-signings: Cade Cunningham, Simone Fontecchio

Departures: Buddy Boeheim (to Thunder), Taj Gibson (to Hornets), Quentin Grimes (to Mavericks), James Wiseman (to Pacers).

Golden State Warriors

 Offseason/upcoming season  preview: The Golden State Warriors are entering a new chapter after Klay Thompson was traded to the Dallas Mavericks, leaving Stephen Curry and Draymond Green to guide the team through this transition. The offseason saw the Warriors re-sign Curry and bring in veterans like Kyle Anderson and Buddy Hield, while losing Chris Paul, Dario Saric, and Thompson.

With the addition of new talent and a focus on youth, the Warriors are looking to rebuild, but their path to contention appears challenging in a competitive Western Conference. A realistic target for the upcoming season may be the Play-In Tournament rather than a championship run.

Notable signings/acquisitions: Kyle Anderson, Buddy Hield, De’Anthony Melton, Lindy Waters III.

Draft: Quinten Post (No. 52 pick)

Re-signings: Stephen Curry

Departures: Chris Paul (to Spurs), Dario Saric (to Nuggets), Klay Thompson (to Mavs)

Houston Rockets

 Offseason/upcoming season  preview: The Houston Rockets, having improved from 17 to 41 wins over four seasons, are poised to take the next step with their young core. Jalen Green led a late-season playoff push, averaging 27.7 ppg in March, while Alperen Sengun also impressed with 21.1 ppg and 9.3 rpg. Key offseason moves included re-signing Aaron Holiday and Nate Williams, trading for AJ Griffin, and drafting Reed Sheppard (No. 3 pick). Jabari Smith Jr. remains a potential breakout candidate. While extensions for Green and Sengun are uncertain, Houston’s focus is on growth, aiming for the Play-In Tournament in a tough Western Conference.

Notable signings/acquisitions: AJ Griffin

Draft: Reed Sheppard (No. 3 pick)

Re–signings: Aaron Holiday, Nate Williams

Departures: None

Indiana Pacers

 Offseason/upcoming season  preview: The Indiana Pacers, coming off a 47-win season and a trip to the Eastern Conference Finals, are looking to build on their success. Led by All-Star guard Tyrese Haliburton and midseason addition Pascal Siakam, the Pacers boasted the league’s top offense and had a strong playoff run, highlighted by a Game 7 win in New York.

This offseason, Indiana focused on retaining key players like Siakam, Andrew Nembhard, and Obi Toppin, while adding James Wiseman in free agency. Bennedict Mathurin, recovering from season-ending surgery, aims for a bounce-back season. The Pacers could win 50 games and make a deep playoff run, though improving their defense remains a priority.

Notable signings/acquisitions:  James Wiseman

Draft: Johnny Furphy (No. 35 pick), Tristan Newton (No. 49), Enrique Freeman (No. 50)

Re–signings: Quenton Jackson, James Johnson, Andrew Nembhard, Pascal Siakam, Obi Toppin

Departures: Jalen Smith (to Bulls)

Los Angeles Clippers

 Offseason/upcoming season  preview: The LA Clippers enter the 2024-25 season with a new home at the Intuit Dome but big questions about their team. After a 51-win season last year, injuries derailed their playoff hopes as Kawhi Leonard went down early, and they lost in the first round. This offseason saw Paul George depart for the 76ers, with the Clippers replacing him by signing several role players, including Derrick Jones Jr. and Kevin Porter Jr., but no star.

The team’s success hinges on Leonard’s health and James Harden stepping up as a primary scorer. While they aim to compete for the playoffs, they’ll be leaning heavily on their remaining stars and new supporting cast to go deeper in the postseason.

Notable signings/acquisitions:  Mo Bamba, Nicolas Batum, Kris Dunn, Derrick Jones Jr, Kevin Porter Jr.

Draft:  Cam Christie (No. 46 pick)

Re-signings: James Harden, Ivica Zubac

Departures: Paul George (to 76ers), Mason Plumlee (to Suns), Daniel Theis (to Pelicans), Russell Westbrook (to Nuggets)

Los Angeles Lakers

 Offseason/upcoming season  preview: The Lakers head into the 2024-25 season with hopes once again riding on LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Despite All-NBA performances from both, they finished 8th in the West last season and were knocked out in the first round by the Nuggets. Davis excelled on both ends (24.7 ppg, 12.6 rpg, 2.3 bpg), while James led the team in scoring (25.7 ppg) at age 39.

This offseason saw a coaching change, with JJ Redick replacing Darvin Ham despite having no prior coaching experience. The Lakers also added rookie Dalton Knecht (No. 17 pick) and LeBron’s son, Bronny James (No. 55 pick), though Bronny is expected to develop in the G League.

To avoid the Play-In Tournament, the Lakers will need improvements from their role players and better shooting and defense throughout the season.

Notable signings/acquisitions: Coach JJ Redick, Christian Koloko

Draft: Dalton Knecht (No. 17 pick), Bronny James (No. 55)

Re-signings: Max Christie, LeBron James

Departures: Coach Darvin Ham, Spencer Dinwiddie (to Mavs), Taurean Prince (to Bucks)

Memphis Grizzlies

 Offseason/upcoming season  preview: The Memphis Grizzlies are aiming for a bounce-back season after a challenging 2023-24, impacted by Ja Morant’s 25-game suspension and season-ending injuries. They finished with just 27 wins, but young players like GG Jackson and Vince Williams showed promise.

This offseason, the Grizzlies re-signed Luke Kennard and drafted 7-foot-4 center Zach Edey with the No. 9 pick, hoping he can develop into a valuable presence in the paint. Marcus Smart, brought in last year, looks to make a bigger impact after missing much of last season due to injury.

With Morant returning and Desmond Bane stepping up as a key scorer, Memphis has the talent to reclaim their spot as a contender in the West, but questions remain about how quickly Edey can fill the void left by Steven Adams.

Notable signings/acquisitions: None

Draft: Zach Edey (No. 9 pick), Jaylen Wells (No. 39), Cam Spencer (No. 53)

Re-signings: Luke Kennard

Departures: Jordan Goodwin (to Lakers), Derrick Rose (retired), Lamar Stevens (to Pistons), Yuta Watanabe (to Japan), Ziaire Williams (to Nets)

Miami Heat

 Offseason/upcoming season  preview: The Miami Heat face a challenging 2024-25 season with limited offseason moves and an aging roster

This summer, Miami had little flexibility, re-signing Bam Adebayo and adding Alec Burks as their only notable acquisition. They also drafted 7-footer Kel’el Ware, who impressed in Summer League.

Butler remains vital to the team, but questions surround his future in Miami, especially with contract concerns and recent injuries. Adebayo is now seen as the franchise cornerstone, and if Butler and Herro stay healthy, Miami can remain competitive. However, they risk falling behind in a strengthened Eastern Conference. 

Notable signings/acquisitions: Alec Burks

Draft: Kel’el Ware (No. 15 pick), Nikola Djurisic (No. 43, traded to Hawks), Pelle Larsson (No. 44, via trade)

Re-signings: Bam Adebayo, Thomas Bryant, Haywood Highsmith, Kevin Love

Departures: Jamal Cain (to Pelicans), Caleb Martin (to 76ers), Patty Mills (to Jazz), Orlando Robinson (to Kings)

Milwaukee Bucks

Offseason/upcoming season preview: The Milwaukee Bucks enter the 2024-25 season with minor roster changes and the hope of better results after last season’s underwhelming finish. 

This offseason, the Bucks made minimal moves, signing Taurean Prince, Gary Trent Jr., and Delon Wright in free agency while drafting AJ Johnson with the No. 23 pick. Lillard’s underperformance last season, partly due to his adjustment to Milwaukee and personal issues, raises questions about his ability to bounce back. New coach Doc Rivers will have the benefit of a full training camp to implement his system.

With Antetokounmpo still dominant and strong supporting players like Bobby Portis, the Bucks are capable of winning 50 games. However, their ability to make a deep playoff run hinges on Lillard and Middleton returning to form and the depth delivering throughout the season.

Notable signings/acquisitions: Taurean Prince, Gary Trent Jr, Stanley Umude, Delon Wright.

Draft: AJ Johnson (No. 23 pick), Tyler Smith (No. 33)

Re-signings: None

Departures: Malik Beasley (to Pistons), Pat Beverley (to Hapoel Tel Aviv BC), Tyty Washington Jr. (to Suns)

Minnesota Timberwolves

 Offseason/upcoming season preview: The Minnesota Timberwolves enter the 2024-25 season aiming to build on last year’s success, where they won 56 games and reached the Western Conference Finals

This offseason, the Wolves made a bold move, trading Karl-Anthony Towns to the Knicks for Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo, providing cap flexibility and addressing depth concerns. Randle, a two-time All-NBA player, brings scoring and rebounding but must quickly integrate into a team led by Edwards and Gobert. The Wolves also drafted Rob Dillingham at No. 8 to develop as Mike Conley’s successor.

The Wolves’ path to success remains defense, and while they lost some bench depth, they have the talent to make a deep playoff run. How well Randle fits and how quickly their young players develop will be key to their championship aspirations.

Notable signings/acquisitions:  F Julis Randle, G Donte DiVincenzo, P.J. Dozier, Joe Ingles.

Draft: Rob Dillingham (No. 8), Terrence Shannon (No. 27)

Re-signings: Luka Garza

Departures: Kyle Anderson (to Warriors), Jordan McLaughlin (to Kings), Wendell Moore Jr. (to Pistons), Monte Morris (to Suns), Karl-Anthony Towns (to Knicks)

New Orleans Pelicans

 Offseason/upcoming season preview: The New Orleans Pelicans enter the 2024-25 season with high hopes after adding guard Dejounte Murray in a trade. Murray brings much needed ballhandling, defense, and outside shooting to complement a strong core. Zion Williamson had his healthiest season yet in 2023-24, playing 70 games and averaging 22.9 points per game, though he was injured again in the Play-In Tournament.

The team’s major offseason loss was Jonas Valanciunas, which leaves a void in their frontcourt.

With Williamson’s health always a key factor, the Pelicans have a talented lineup poised for success in the competitive Western Conference. A 50-win season and a top-six finish are possible if they can address their lack of size before the trade deadline.

Notable signings/acquisitions: Jamal Cain, Javonte Green, Dejounte Murray, Daniel Theis.

Draft: Yves Missi (No. 21 pick), Antonio Reeves (No. 47)

Re-signings: None

Departures:  Dyson Daniels (to Hawks), E.J. Liddell (to Hawks), Naji Marshall (to Mavericks), Larry Nance Jr. (to Hawks), Jonas Valanciunas (to Wizards), Cody Zeller (to Hawks)

New York Knicks

 Offseason/upcoming season  preview: The New York Knicks enter the 2024-25 season as serious contenders in the East, having added key pieces to an already strong core. After a 50-win season and an Eastern Conference Semifinals appearance last year, they made major offseason moves by trading for Mikal Bridges and Karl-Anthony Towns. These additions provide depth, defense, and versatility, making the Knicks a real threat to the Celtics.

Jalen Brunson, fresh off signing a team-friendly extension, leads a Villanova-flavored core that includes Bridges and Josh Hart. OG Anunoby also re-signed, further bolstering the team. Despite the loss of Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo in the trade for Towns, the Knicks now have a more balanced frontcourt and increased floor spacing.

Mitchell Robinson’s health will be key, especially as the Knicks face big men like Joel Embiid and Kristaps Porzingis in the East. With their improved roster, the Knicks are poised to challenge for a top spot in the conference and could be Boston’s biggest competitor. A championship run is a realistic goal for this squad.

Notable signings/acquisitions:  Keita Bates-Diop, Mikal Bridges, Cameron Payne, Karl-Anthony Towns.

Draft: Pacome Dadiet (No. 25 pick), Tyler Kolek (No. 34), Kevin McCullar Jr. (No. 56), Ariel Hukporti (No. 58)

Re-signings: Precious Achiuwa, OG Anunoby, Jalen Brunson, Jacob Toppin

Departures: Bojan Bogdanovic (to Nets), Alec Burks (to Heat), Mamadi Diakite (to Nets), Donte DiVincenzo (to Timberwolves), Isaiah Hartenstein (to Thunder), Shake Milton (to Nets), Julius Randle (to Timberwolves)

Oklahoma City Thunder

 Offseason/upcoming season  preview: The Oklahoma City Thunder are poised to build on their dominant 2023-24 season, where they won 57 games.

They re-signed Isaiah Joe and Aaron Wiggins, added defensive guard Alex Caruso and rebounding big man Isaiah Hartenstein, and drafted promising rookies Nikola Topic, Dillon Jones, and Ajay Mitchell. Josh Giddey was traded to Chicago, but OKC’s depth remains strong.

Chet Holmgren, after missing his rookie season due to injury, is expected to have a breakout year with support from Hartenstein, allowing him more freedom on the floor. With a young, well-rounded roster and continued growth from Gilgeous-Alexander, the Thunder are well-positioned for another strong campaign and could potentially reach the NBA Finals.

Notable signings/acquisitions: Alex Caruso, Isaiah Hartenstein.

Draft: Nikola Topic (No. 12 pick), Dillon Jones (No. 26), Ajay Mitchell (No. 38)

Re-signings: Isaiah Joe, Aaron Wiggins.

Departures: Josh Giddey (to Bulls), Lindy Waters III (to Warriors), Gordon Hayward (retired)

Orlando Magic

 Offseason/upcoming season  preview: The Orlando Magic are on an upward trajectory after winning 47 games and making the playoffs for the first time since 2020, pushing the Cavs to seven games in the first round. 

In the offseason, Orlando re-signed key players like Franz Wagner and Jonathan Isaac and added veteran shooter Kentavious Caldwell-Pope to address their 3-point shooting struggles. They also drafted Tristan da Silva at No. 18. While Banchero often leads the offense, there’s hope Suggs can grow into more of a playmaker role.

The Magic look like a potential 50-win team in 2024-25 if their young core continues to develop. With Banchero eyeing All-NBA status and Wagner leading the scoring, Orlando is well-positioned for further growth, and management wisely chose to keep the core intact to assess its full potential.

Notable signings/acquisitions: Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cory Joseph.

Draft: Tristan da Silva (No. 18 pick)

Re-signings: Goga Bitadze, Gary Harris, Jonathan Isaac, Franz Wagner, Moritz Wagner

Departures: Joe Ingles

Philadelphia 76ers

 Offseason/upcoming season  preview: After a solid 47-win season, which saw Embiid sidelined for two months due to injury and a play-in tournament run, Philly added major talent. Tyrese Maxey stepped up as a star, earning All-Star and Most Improved Player honors, but the team lacked a third key piece.

That changed this summer with the addition of Paul George, Andre Drummond, and other veterans like Eric Gordon and Caleb Martin. George’s decision to leave the Clippers gave Philly a much-needed boost, pairing him with Embiid and Maxey to form a formidable trio. The Sixers also re-signed key players, including Maxey and Kyle Lowry.

With a revamped roster and Embiid at the helm, Philadelphia now sits among the top contenders in the East, alongside Boston and New York. 

Notable signings/acquisitions: Andre Drummond, Paul George, Eric Gordon, Reggie Jackson, Caleb Martin, Guerschon Yabusele. 

Draft: Jared McCain (No. 16 pick), Adem Bona (No. 41)

Re-signings:  Kyle Lowry, KJ Martin, Tyrese Maxey, Kelly Oubre Jr.

Departures:  Nicolas Batum (to Clippers), Mo Bamba (to Clippers), Buddy Hield (to Warriors), De’Anthony Melton (to Warriors), Cameron Payne (to Knicks), Paul Reed (to Pistons)

Phoenix Suns

Offseason/upcoming season  preview: The Phoenix Suns enter the 2024-25 season with high expectations but face questions surrounding their star trio of Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal. Last season ended in disappointment.

In the offseason, Phoenix replaced coach Frank Vogel with Mike Budenholzer and made a few low-cost additions, including Tyus Jones, Mason Plumlee, and Monte Morris, while re-signing key players like Royce O’Neale. Jones is expected to take on playmaking duties, allowing Booker to focus more on scoring.

The Suns’ success will largely depend on Beal’s ability to bounce back and complement Durant and Booker. With their high-powered trio and a new coach, Phoenix hopes to remain in title contention, though questions linger about their lack of depth and whether the super-team model still works.

Notable signings/acquisitions: Coach Mike Budenholzer, Tyus Jones, E.J. Liddel, Monte Morris, Mason Plumlee.

Draft: Ryan Dunn, Oso Ighodaro

Re-signings: Bol Bol, Damion Lee, Josh Okogie, Royce O’Neale

Departures: Coach Frank Vogel, Drew Eubanks (to Jazz), Eric Gordon (to 76ers), David Roddy (to Hawks)

Portland Trail Blazers

Offseason/upcoming season preview: The Portland Trail Blazers are entering the 2024-25 season focused on building around their young core after a challenging 21-win season without Damian Lillard. 

In the offseason, Portland added 7-footer Donovan Clingan in the draft and acquired Deni Avdija, a promising 23-year-old forward, in a trade for Malcolm Brogdon. Despite these moves, the Blazers face challenges with a crowded roster at center and uncertain futures for players like Ayton and Grant.

The team isn’t expected to make a serious playoff push, with many other Western Conference teams being more established. Portland will likely focus on developing its young stars and may consider selling veterans at the trade deadline to clarify their direction.

Notable signings/acquisitions: Deni Avdija, Devonte’ Graham.

Draft: Donovan Clingan (No. 7 pick)

Re-signings: None

Departures: Malcolm Brogdon (to Wizards)

Sacramento Kings

Offseason/upcoming season  preview: The Sacramento Kings are aiming to rise in the Western Conference after adding veteran guard DeMar DeRozan in a sign-and-trade deal this offseason. DeRozan, known for his clutch mid-range game, joins a team led by De’Aaron Fox, who had a career-best 2023-24 season, and All-NBA center Domantas Sabonis. 

Last season, the Kings won 46 games but fell short in the playoffs, struggling defensively and competing in the Play-In Tournament. With DeRozan on board and key re-signings like Malik Monk, Sacramento hopes to solidify its place among the Western elite, with a deep playoff run as a best-case scenario.

Notable signings/acquisitions: DeMar DeRozan, McLaughlin, Orlando Robinson.

Draft: Devin Carter

Re-signings: Alex Len, Malik Monk.

Departures: Harrison Barnes (to Spurs), Chris Duarte (to Bulls), Davion Mitchell (to Raptors), Kessler Edwards (to Mavericks), Sasha Vezenkov (to Raptors)

San Antonio Spurs

Offseason/upcoming season  preview: The Spurs are entering the 2024-25 season focused on developing their young core, led by Victor Wembanyama, last season’s Kia Rookie of the Year. While the team finished with a disappointing 22-60 record, Wembanyama showed star potential after the All-Star break. This summer, the Spurs added veteran leadership by signing 39-year-old Chris Paul and trading for Harrison Barnes, providing guidance to the young squad.

San Antonio drafted point guard Stephon Castle with the No. 4 pick, likely Paul’s successor. Despite these additions, the Spurs remain one of the league’s youngest teams, signalling another developmental year under coach Gregg Popovich. With an eye on future growth and draft capital, the focus is on building around Wembanyama while nurturing players like Devin Vassell, Keldon Johnson, and Jeremy Sochan.

Notable signings/acquisitions: Harrison Barnes, Chris Paul.

Draft: Stephon Castle (No. 4 pick), Juan Nunez (No. 36), Harrison Ingram (No. 48)

Re-signings: Charles Bassey, Sandro Mamukelashvili

Departures: Dominick Barlow (Hawks), Devonte’ Graham (Trail Blazers)

Toronto Raptors

Offseason/upcoming season  preview: The Toronto Raptors are entering the 2024-25 season with hopes of bouncing back from a disappointing finish last year, where they went 2-19 to close the season. The team is now centered around its young core of Scottie Barnes, Immanuel Quickley, and RJ Barrett, acquired from the Knicks midseason. Barnes, fresh off a career-best season and his first All-Star appearance, leads the charge, while Quickley signed a five-year extension to stay in Toronto.

This offseason, Toronto made minor additions, including Davion Mitchell via trade and rookies Ja’Kobe Walter and Jamal Shead through the Draft. The Raptors’ ceiling likely rests around the Play-In Tournament, depending on the development of their core trio. If the season falters, the team may look to offload some supporting players at the trade deadline.

Notable signings/acquisitions: Bruno Fernando, Davion Mitchell.

Draft: Ja’Kobe Walter (No. 19), Jonathan Mogbo (No. 31), Jamal Shead (No. 45), Ulrich Chomche (No. 57)

Re-signings: Scottie Barnes, Immanuel Quickley, Garrett Temple.

Departures: Mouhamadou Gueye (waived), Jalen McDaniels (to Kings), Gary Trent Jr. (to Bucks), Sasha Vezenkov (waived)

Utah Jazz

Offseason/upcoming season  preview: The Utah Jazz enter the 2024-25 season in a rebuilding phase, led by Lauri Markkanen and Jordan Clarkson. After a 31-win season and missing the playoffs for two straight years, the team aims to develop its young talent, including second-year players and promising rookies like Cody Williams (No. 10 pick) and Isaiah Collier (No. 29).

The Jazz extended Markkanen with a five-year, $240 million deal, solidifying him as their franchise player. However, veterans like Clarkson, Collin Sexton, and John Collins may face competition from rising talents such as Keyonte George and Taylor Hendricks. Utah could also be active at the trade deadline, potentially moving veteran players to further embrace their youth movement.

Notable signings/acquisitions: Drew Eubanks, Patty Mills, Svi Mykhailiuk.

Draft: Cody Williams (No. 10 pick), Isaiah Collier (No. 29), Kyle Filipowski (No. 31)

Re-signings: Johnny Juzang, Lauri Markkanen

Departures: Kris Dunn (to Clippers), Omer Yurtseven (waived)

Washington Wizards

Offseason/upcoming season  preview: The Washington Wizards enter the 2024-25 season deep in a rebuild, highlighted by the addition of No. 2 draft pick Alex Sarr and new coach Brian Keefe. After a franchise-worst 67-loss season, the team looks to Sarr and 2023 lottery pick Bilal Coulibaly for development, while also integrating rookies Bub Carrington and Kyshawn George.

Offseason moves included adding veterans Malcolm Brogdon and Jonas Valanciunas, but the surprising trade of Deni Avdija to Portland raised eyebrows. With no playoff hopes in sight, the Wizards are likely bound for another Draft lottery, with management focused on long-term growth and possibly trading Kyle Kuzma for future assets.

Notable signings/acquisitions:  Saddiq Bey, Malcolm Brogdon, Jonas Valanciunas.

Draft: Alex Sarr (No. 2 pick), Bub Carrington (No. 14, via trade), Kyshawn George (No. 24, via trade), Dillon Jones (No. 26, traded to Knicks), Melvin Ajinca (No. 51, traded to Knicks)

Re-signings: Anthony Gill, Richaun Holmes, Tristan Vukcevic

Departures: Deni Avdija (Trail Blazers), Tyus Jones (Suns), Landry Shamet (waived)

Our prediction on where teams will finish after regular season:

Eastern Conference: 

1. Boston Celtics
2. New York Knicks
3. Philadelphia 76ers
4. Cleveland Cavaliers
5. Milwaukee Bucks
6. Orlando Magic
7. Miami Heat
8. Indiana Pacers
9. Atlanta Hawks
10. Chicago Bulls
11. Charlotte Hornets
12. Toronto Raptors
13. Detroit Pistons
14. Brooklyn Nets
15. Washington Wizards

Western Conference:

1. Oklahoma City Thunder
2. Minnesota Timberwolves
3. Dallas Mavericks
4. Denver Nuggets
5. Phoenix Suns
6. Memphis Grizzlies
7. New Orleans Pelicans
8. LA Lakers
9. Houston Rocket
10. Sacramento Kings
11. Golden State Warriors
12. LA Clippers
13. San Antonio Spurs
14. Utah Jazz
15. Portland Trail Blazers

NBA Finals Prediction:

New York Knicks-Oklahoma City Thunder

I expect the Knicks to win this finals matchup as they have more experience. SGA is my prediction for the MVP this year, but the Knicks have perfect defensive tools to make it hell for him which would mean that others from OKC need to step up in the brightest off lights. All comes down to how quickly this new lineup gets their chemistry up. 

Sources: https://www.nba.com/