The 2024-25 NBA season is on the horizon, and teams are gearing up with ambitious goals and new strategies. One of the most watched teams this season will undoubtedly be the Boston Celtics, who are projected to reach 58.5 wins. This projection comes on the heels of a stellar 64-win season, a milestone they haven't achieved since 2009. With high expectations, the Celtics are eager to prove that last season's success was no fluke.
Another team to keep an eye on is the Oklahoma City Thunder, whose projected win total stands at 55.5. While they didn't make headlines with major offseason moves, their solid team chemistry and depth have analysts optimistic about their prospects.
Rebuilding Phases
The Brooklyn Nets are at the other end of the spectrum, facing a tough year ahead. They have the lowest win total projection following the trade of Mikal Bridges. The franchise is undergoing a significant rebuild, and patience will be key for their fans.
The Portland Trail Blazers and Washington Wizards are also projected to struggle, with win totals at 21.5 and 22.5 respectively. These teams are in various stages of rebuilding and development, with young rosters that need time to mature.
Cleveland Cavaliers: A New Era
The Cleveland Cavaliers, coming off a 48-win season, have a fresh start under new head coach Kenny Atkinson. Despite limited time on the court together last season for stars Donovan Mitchell, Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen, the team is hopeful for a more cohesive unit under Atkinson's leadership.
Changes in Phoenix
The Phoenix Suns, who notched 49 wins last season, have also undergone a coaching change. Mike Budenholzer steps in to replace Frank Vogel. The Suns are looking to build on their solid performance and aim for a deeper playoff run with Budenholzer at the helm.
Detroit Pistons: A New Direction
In Detroit, the Pistons are in a crucial rebuilding phase. Coming off the league’s worst record last season, the Pistons made bold moves by terminating Monty Williams and appointing J.B. Bickerstaff as the new head coach. Bickerstaff is optimistic about the young core of Cade Cunningham, Jalen Duren, and Jaden Ivey, 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." To bolster their roster, the Pistons added veteran presence with Tobias Harris, Malik Beasley, and Paul Reed.
Los Angeles Lakers: Health is Key
The Los Angeles Lakers enter the season with some fresh faces and high hopes. After a 47-win season, the Lakers added rookies Dalton Knecht and Bronny James. The primary concern, however, is the health of their superstars. LeBron James played 71 games last season, while Anthony Davis managed 76. As one NBA analyst aptly put it, "The question for this year is whether the Lakers can count on both James and Davis to stay healthy in 2024-25." Moreover, there is a change in leadership with J.J. Reddick now at the coaching helm.
Turmoil in Clipperland
On the other side of Los Angeles, the Clippers face uncertainty. Despite a 51-win season, they endured the loss of Paul George, who was traded to the Philadelphia 76ers. Adding to their woes, Kawhi Leonard missed the final eight games last season, raising questions about their ability to maintain their competitive edge.
Milwaukee Bucks: A Season of Doubt
The Milwaukee Bucks, who won 49 games last season, are also in a state of flux. Defensively, the Bucks ranked 19th, which is an area they will need to improve. With Giannis Antetokounmpo entering his age-30 season, the window for maximizing their potential remains open but narrowing. The addition of rookies AJ Johnson and Tyler Smith may inject some fresh energy into the team. However, the Celtics, Philadelphia 76ers, and New York Knicks are still favored to win the Eastern Conference over the Bucks.
As the 2024-25 NBA season approaches, teams across the league are setting their sights on various goals, from rebuilding and development to championship contention. Each franchise has its own set of challenges and opportunities, making for a thrilling and unpredictable season ahead.