The anticipation for the 2024-25 NBA season is palpable as teams gear up for another competitive year. Among the talking points are the Boston Celtics, who are set to enter the new season with a win total projection of 58.5. Last season, the Celtics achieved an impressive 64 wins, marking the first time since 2009 that they've surpassed the 58.5 win mark. This performance has undoubtedly heightened expectations for the team in the upcoming season.
On the other side of the spectrum, the Oklahoma City Thunder are projected to finish with 55.5 wins. Meanwhile, the Brooklyn Nets face a challenging season ahead, marked by the lowest win total projection among all teams. This comes in the wake of significant rebuilding efforts following the trade of their star player Mikal Bridges.
The Rebuilding Process
The Portland Trail Blazers and Washington Wizards are both projected to struggle in the upcoming season, with win projections of 21.5 and 22.5, respectively. These low projections highlight the rebuilding phase both franchises are currently navigating.
A New Era in Cleveland
The Cleveland Cavaliers, who secured 48 wins last season, have also made significant changes. Despite their star-studded roster featuring Donovan Mitchell, Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen, the Cavs’ stars had limited on-court time together last season. Hoping to bridge that gap and enhance team synergy, the franchise has brought in Kenny Atkinson as their new head coach.
Changes in Coaching
Elsewhere, the Phoenix Suns, who had 49 wins last season, welcome Mike Budenholzer as their new head coach, replacing Frank Vogel. The Detroit Pistons, whose disappointing performance last season saw them end with the league’s worst record, have also made substantial changes. Monty Williams was terminated as head coach, and J.B. Bickerstaff has taken the helm. The Pistons' core, comprised of Cade Cunningham, Jalen Duren, and Jaden Ivey, provides a measure of optimism. “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,” said J.B. Bickerstaff.
Significantly, the Pistons have also bolstered their roster by adding Tobias Harris, Malik Beasley, and Paul Reed. These new additions signify the team's intent to improve and compete more effectively this season.
The Lakers' Health Question
The Los Angeles Lakers, who had a 47-win season last year, are another team facing high expectations, particularly concerning the health of their star players. LeBron James played in 71 games last season, while Anthony Davis featured in 76. Despite these contributions, the Lakers ranked 15th in offensive rating and 17th in defensive rating. “The question for this year is whether the Lakers can count on both James and Davis to stay healthy in 2024-25,” commented an NBA analyst.
Adding to the narrative, the Lakers will see new faces including rookies Dalton Knecht and Bronny James on their roster. Also, J.J. Reddick has been appointed as the new head coach, marking a significant shift in the franchise’s leadership.
Notable Moves
Across town, the Los Angeles Clippers ended the previous season with 51 wins but will now have to adjust following the trade of Paul George to the Philadelphia 76ers. Additionally, Kawhi Leonard missed the final eight games last season, impacting the team’s performance during a crucial stretch.
The Bucks and Eastern Conference Favorites
The Milwaukee Bucks, who completed the last season with 49 wins and ranked 19th in defense, have also made noteworthy adjustments. Entering his age-30 season, Giannis Antetokounmpo remains the focal point of the team. The Bucks have added rookies AJ Johnson and Tyler Smith to their roster in the 2024 NBA Draft. However, despite these efforts, the Celtics, Philadelphia 76ers, and New York Knicks are favored to win the Eastern Conference over the Bucks.
As the NBA landscape continues to shift with team overhauls and strategic changes, the 2024-25 season promises to be unpredictable and thrilling. Each franchise's maneuvers during the offseason set the stage for an enticing NBA campaign, filled with storylines that will captivate fans and analysts alike.