As the 2024-25 NBA season approaches, various teams are set to face new challenges and opportunities. The Boston Celtics, coming off an impressive season where they won 64 games, have a new win total projection of 58.5. This is noteworthy as it marks the first time since 2009 that the Celtics have surpassed the 58.5 win mark.
In Oklahoma City, the Thunder have a projected win total of 55.5, hinting at a strong season ahead. Conversely, the Brooklyn Nets are at the other end of the spectrum with the lowest win total projection for the upcoming season. This comes as no surprise, given the significant rebuild they are undergoing following the trade of Mikal Bridges.
Eastern Conference Contenders
The Cleveland Cavaliers, who won 48 games last season, are speculated to improve under the guidance of new head coach Kenny Atkinson. Last season, key players Donovan Mitchell, Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen had limited on-court time together, leaving room for better synergy and performance this season. The Cavaliers' fortunes could change dramatically if these stars can spend more time playing together.
Meanwhile, the Boston Celtics, Philadelphia 76ers, and New York Knicks are favored to win the Eastern Conference over the Milwaukee Bucks. The Bucks, who won 49 games last season and ranked 19th in defense, have added rookies AJ Johnson and Tyler Smith to their roster. Giannis Antetokounmpo is entering his age-30 season, and the team's success will largely hinge on his performance.
Challenges in the West
The Phoenix Suns won 49 games last season and have made a significant change by replacing head coach Frank Vogel with Mike Budenholzer. With high expectations, it remains to be seen how the team will adapt to the new leadership.
The Los Angeles Lakers, who ended last season with 47 wins, are another team to watch. LeBron James played 71 games last season and Anthony Davis 76, but the Lakers only ranked 15th in offensive rating and 17th in defensive rating. J.J. Reddick takes over as the new head coach, and the addition of rookies Dalton Knecht and Bronny James will introduce fresh dynamics to the team. One NBA analyst aptly commented, "The question for this year is whether the Lakers can count on both James and Davis to stay healthy in 2024-25."
Across town, the Los Angeles Clippers won 51 games last season but will face the upcoming season without Paul George, who was traded to the Philadelphia 76ers. Kawhi Leonard's availability also remains a question mark, as he missed the final eight games last season.
Rebuilding and New Beginnings
The Detroit Pistons, who had the league’s worst record last season, have had a busy offseason. Monty Williams was terminated as head coach, and J.B. Bickerstaff has taken over the reins. Speaking on the new chapter, Bickerstaff said, "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 have also bolstered their roster by adding Tobias Harris, Malik Beasley, and Paul Reed, setting the stage for a potential turnaround season.
Moving to the Northwest, the Portland Trail Blazers have a win projection of 21.5, and the Washington Wizards are close behind with 22.5. These projections indicate a challenging season ahead for both teams as they navigate through their rebuilding phases.
As teams finalize their preparations and adjust to new lineups and coaching staff, fans eagerly await the tip-off of a season filled with potential surprises and intense competition. With key players and exciting rookies ready to make their mark, the 2024-25 NBA season promises to be an captivating spectacle.