The NBA's 2024-25 season is shaping up to be a thrilling ride, filled with significant changes and high expectations for various teams. As pre-season predictions start to crystalize, several teams are already generating buzz, both for their potential to exceed expectations and the challenges they face.
Celtics Aim High
The Boston Celtics, fresh off a stellar 64-win season, are once again expected to be a dominant force. With a win total projection of 58.5 for the new season, they aim to build on their recent success. This marks the first time since 2009 that the Celtics have surpassed this projection, showcasing a return to elite status. Their continued prominence in the Eastern Conference places them among the favorites to clinch the title.
Thunder on the Rise
Over in the Western Conference, the Oklahoma City Thunder have a projected win total of 55.5. This projection reflects the team's growing strength and potential to make a deep playoff run. Meanwhile, the Brooklyn Nets, undergoing a significant rebuild after the trade of Mikal Bridges, have the lowest win total projection. The Nets are clearly in a phase of restructuring and development, looking towards future seasons for a return to competitiveness.
Bottom of the Heap
The Portland Trail Blazers and Washington Wizards are facing bleak prospects, with win projections of 21.5 and 22.5 respectively. These low projections suggest both teams may endure tough seasons ahead, potentially vying for high draft picks as they rebuild.
Cavaliers Ready for Change
The Cleveland Cavaliers are another team to watch this season. Although they secured 48 wins last year, the team struggled with limited on-court time together for their stars Donovan Mitchell, Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen. With Kenny Atkinson taking the helm as the new head coach, there is hope for better cohesion and a stronger playoff push.
Suns Welcome Budenholzer
In Phoenix, the Suns are adapting to a new era under head coach Mike Budenholzer, who replaced Frank Vogel. Coming off a 49-win season, the Suns are poised to make significant strides with Budenholzer's proven track record. His arrival injects fresh optimism into a team eager to ascend in the competitive Western Conference.
Challenges for the Pistons
The Detroit Pistons endured the league’s worst record last season, leading to the termination of Monty Williams as head coach. J.B. Bickerstaff now steps in, bringing new energy and vision to the team. He believes in the potential of their young core, stating, "The only way to go is up and Detroit has a promising young core in Cade Cunningham, Jalen Duren, and Jaden Ivey that should excite bettors."
The Pistons also bolstered their lineup by adding veterans Tobias Harris, Malik Beasley, and Paul Reed. This mix of established talent and promising youngsters aims to drive Detroit out of the league's basement.
Lakers Look for Health and Consistency
The Los Angeles Lakers, who finished with 47 wins last season, hinge their hopes on the health and consistency of their stars. LeBron James and Anthony Davis played 71 and 76 games respectively, a good sign heading into the new season. An NBA analyst remarked, "The question for this year is whether the Lakers can count on both James and Davis to stay healthy in 2024-25."
With J.J. Reddick stepping in as the new head coach and the addition of rookies Dalton Knecht and Bronny James, the Lakers aim to improve on their middling offensive (15th) and defensive (17th) ratings from last season.
Clippers Adjust After George Trade
The Los Angeles Clippers, who ended last season with 51 wins, face some uncertainty after trading Paul George to the Philadelphia 76ers. With Kawhi Leonard having missed the final eight games of the season, the Clippers must navigate a landscape without one of their key players. How they adapt to this significant roster change will be crucial for their success.
Milwaukee Bucks: A Team in Transition
The Milwaukee Bucks are also navigating a transition period. Despite winning 49 games last season, they ranked a disappointing 19th in defense. With Giannis Antetokounmpo entering his age-30 season, the team added rookies AJ Johnson and Tyler Smith in the 2024 NBA Draft to inject new energy and skills. However, the Eastern Conference is stacked, with the Celtics, 76ers, and Knicks all favored ahead of the Bucks.
As the 2024-25 NBA season approaches, teams are diligently preparing to either build on their previous successes or uplift their fortunes. The narratives of comebacks, rebuilds, and fresh starts ensure that this season will be one to watch closely.