NBA fans. It’s that time of the year. As we are phasing out of September and approaching October, it is finally basketball season. The NBA season is only 3.5 weeks away. Most teams have had their media days and will begin training camp, followed by 2-3 weeks of preseason basketball.
This year will have plenty of storylines involving many teams. The season will kick off on October 22 with the defending champs, Boston Celtics, taking on the now-loaded superteam in the New York Knicks. The following game will be the Minnesota Timberwolves with one of the NBA’s youngest rising stars, Anthony Edwards, going up against the Los Angeles Lakers led by the superhuman LeBron James, who will begin his 22nd season and playing with his son on the Lakers. Both games will air on TNT, which could be in their final season covering NBA games, and it might be the last season of the famous Inside the NBA.
Nevertheless, October is the best time of the year for all sports fans, and the NBA season is finally here. Let’s dive into the power rankings!
2024-25 NBA Power Rankings
1. Boston Celtics
The offseason was solid for the Boston Celtics as far as keeping practically their entire core together that was the best team all year and only lost 3 times in the entire season. Still, a bizarre series of events occurred with Porzingis going to be out to start the season, Jayson Tatum getting benched in the Olympics, the ownership group stating the franchise is up for sale, Derrick White’s fight at a Colorado State football, and importantly Jaylen Brown saying it was “weird to have stability”. However one may perceive that quote, Boston is looking to build off a dominant season and repeat for the first time since the 2018 Golden State Warriors.
2. Oklahoma City Thunder
It will be a big season now that the Thunder have shifted from a young rising team to a bonafide title contender. Sam Presti who put together this team along with the Kevin Durant-James Harden-Russell Westbrook more than a decade ago, is hoping this current young core will result in an NBA championship. Oklahoma City is a team currently built to win not only now but in the future as well. If Shai Gilgeous-Alexander can build off last year’s MVP-like season along with the improvement of Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren, then OKC should be able to get 60+ wins with no problem.
3. Dallas Mavericks
The scary thing about Dallas is that not only do they have two of the baddest players on the planet Kyrie Irving and Luka Donic. The Mavericks signed 4x champion and one of the greatest 3-point shooters of all time in Klay Thompson. Don’t expect Klay to be the player he was in Golden State, but he can still provide championship experience and 15-20 points a night. The Mavericks will have had a full offseason with a team that went 21-9 after the All-Star break this past season proving that their run to the finals was not a fluke. If Luka can get into elite shape and avoid fatigue or injury, then Dallas can easily return to the finals.
4. New York Knicks
The new superteam in the Big Apple is possibly the biggest threat to the Celtics. The Knicks added another piece in Mikal Bridges, who is a 3 and D player capable of being a 20-point scorer. Also, New York extended Jalen Brunson, who is now the King of New York. This team as currently constructed has the length to give opposing teams nightmares out on the perimeter. And with the move to acquire Karl Anthony-Towns, the Knicks may have found an upgrade at the center role despite giving up Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo. Can he be the answer the Knicks need at center? With Mitchell Robinson out to start the year, can the Knicks find more depth at center?
5. Philadelphia 76ers
Undoubtedly, the 76ers had one of the best and flashiest offseasons. Philly managed to get Paul George, who will provide the 76ers with another guy who can score 20-25 points consistently. The 76ers were able to add depth at all positions which is crucial because without their superstar Joel Embid, they finished 16-27 last season. The big question is can their stars particularly Embid and Paul George stay healthy? Also, can Tyrese Maxey and George coexist? If those questions can be answered, Philly will be a favorite to dethrone the Celtics. And if not at least Andre Drummond can be a great option for anyone’s fantasy basketball team.
6. Minnesota Timberwolves
Trading KAT for Randle and DiVincenzo was a mixed-bag move. One on hand you are bringing in a solid power forward who was a star in New York in Randle and DiVincenzo, who can provide offense to a team that was inconsistent on offense. However, the questions of whether Randle and Rudy Gobert can fit remain and whether Julius Randle can be a viable second option for a team contending for a title rather than a liability, especially in a playoff series. The big takeaway from this move was that the Minnesota Timberwolves are now officially Anthony Edwards’ team.
7. Denver Nuggets
This team has taken a step back on paper as their thin bench got even thinner. However, this could be a significant opportunity for younger players like Christian Braun, Peyton Watson, and Julian Strawther to step up and take a bigger role. The Nuggets were outsized and outplayed in the second round by the Minnesota Timberwolves. Denver is hoping Dario Sarcic could be someone who can provide solid depth at the frontcourt. As long as the 3x MVP Nikola Jokic is on the roster, along with Jamal Murray signing his extension, the Nuggets will automatically be a title contender barring major injury. Let’s hope Russell Westbrook can make a positive difference.
8. Milwaukee Bucks
Milwaukee is looking to bounce back after a turbulent season last year that included injuries, chemistry, and coaching changes. Perhaps an offseason with Doc Rivers and his system could help Milwaukee have a better season. The Bucks are hoping that Damian Lillard’s season last year was just a down year and he returns to being that 30-point-a-game assassin he was in Portland and if Khris Middleton can stay healthy after 2 consecutive injury-riddled seasons. The one cause of concern is the age of this core, as the Bucks will have one of the oldest cores in the league. As long as Giannis Antetokounmpo is on the roster, Milwaukee will no doubt be in the title contention mix.
9. Phoenix Suns
I believe the Suns will have a bounce-back season. The signings of Tyus Jones and Monte Morris should be one of the most underrated moves of the offseasons. Last season, Phoenix had two glaring weaknesses. The first one was depth and the second one was point guard play. With Tyus Jones, both Bradley Beal and Devin Booker will return to their normal positions of just scoring the ball. With that being said, the Suns window of competing for a title is getting smaller especially with Kevin Durant going into Year 18 at 36 years old. This team could return as one of the title contenders if health is on their side.
10. Indiana Pacers
The good news for the Pacers is that Tyrese Halliburton’s injury during the Olympics is nothing serious and he should be ready to go by training camp. Also, better news, Halliburton is committed to Indy and has tried to recruit guys to come play with him. The Pacers are looking to build off a great season last season after getting to the Eastern Conference finals. With a full offseason of having Pascal Siakim, Indiana is hoping to prove that their playoff run was in no way a fluke. If Tyrese can return to his MVP play during the 2023 portion of last season, then the Pacers have a shot. However, Indiana will need to improve their defense to be considered a serious contender.
11. Cleveland Cavaliers
One thing for sure is there is a lot of confidence going around in the Land on the current roster. Both Donovon Mitchell and new head coach Kenny Atkinson believe the Cavaliers can be title contenders when healthy. Cleveland’s front office paid their core four contract extensions showing commitment to core and continuity. The biggest X-factor will be if Evan Mobley can become the superstar the Cavs are looking for. The 23-year-old has proven he is a top defender in the NBA and has had his moments offensively. The question is can Mobley become a consistent option on offense? As currently constructed, it is hard to believe Cleveland is a top 3 team in the conference, but the Cavs have enough talent for a deep playoff run.
12. Orlando Magic
This is a team on the rise. This is a team that improved its record by 14 wins last season and now added some championship veteran experience to the squad. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope is a 2x champion who will provide 3-point shooting and defense. Paolo Banchero proved he is on his way to becoming a superstar in the NBA and Orlando has plenty of young players that every NBA team would want on their team. According to Hollinger Stats, the Magic were 3rd in defensive efficiency last season and were 21-2 when they held teams under 100 points. If things go their way, the Magic could be in for a deep playoff run next season.
13. Sacramento Kings
Sacramento is hoping to return to the postseason after falling short on the final day in the final play-in game. The Kings made a big move by trading for all-star forward DeMar DeRozan. It will be a bit puzzling to see how DeRozan will fit with this team. The Kings have been a team that plays fast, spreads the floor, and shoots. DeRozan on the other hand, is known to be one of the games’ most well-known iso scorers in the past decade. Nevertheless, Sacramento will be better on paper and you have to at least respect the Kings front office for not trying to stand pat. Only time will tell if this was the right move.
14. Memphis Grizzlies
Is the NBA in for a Ja Morant vengeance tour-like season? After only playing 9 games due to a suspension and shoulder surgery, Morant is looking to remind the world of the box office superstar he is and get Memphis back in the playoffs. It will be hard to see the Grizzlies become a top 2 seed like they were in 2 of the past 3 seasons. However, if Ja Morant stays healthy and the young players become contributors, then Memphis should have no problem at least avoiding the play-in. The Grizzlies shall draw some interest around the league as the 2x National Player of the Year Zach Edey from Purdue will not only make his debut but will be starting for a Memphis team looking to be a contender.
15. New Orleans Pelicans
There are still questions that need to be answered in NOLA. When will Brandon Ingram be traded? Can Dejounte Murray coexist with CJ McCollum in the backcourt? It was proven in Atlanta, that Murray and Trae Young were two undersized guards who couldn’t exist. And more importantly, will a leaner Zion Williamson translate into an MVP season? That last question right there will be an x-factor to determine if the Pelicans can be a dark horse contender in the West or if they are stuck in the play-in tournament log jam. Oh yeah, are they going with Daniel Theis as the starting center? Or will there be more small-ball lineups? A lot of questions to be answered.
16. Golden State Warriors
For the first time since April 13, 2011, the Warriors will be entering the season without Thompson being on the roster. The Splash Brothers will be remembered fondly by fans in the Bay Area which resulted in 4 championships, 6 finals appearances and the record of most regular season wins. It is reassuring to know that Steph Curry is still playing elite basketball at the age of 36. Still, Golden State will need to find their consistent number 2 option whether it’s Andrew Wiggins having a bounce-back season or Jonathan Kuminga breaking out in a star. It will be hard to believe that Golden State is more than a play-in team until proven otherwise.
17. Los Angeles Lakers
This season will be somewhat the same as last season. The Lakers hope that new coach JJ Reddick will prove that coaching was an issue last season. But let’s remember JJ is still a rookie head coach. The Lakers stars had their healthiest seasons last year since their championship year but that couldn’t be said about the role players. It will be very hard to believe that the Lakers will be anything better than a play-in team, especially with very few impactful moves to their roster. But hey at least they have 40-year-old LeBron who is a still a top player in the game in Year 22. And Anthony Davis is a still superstar when healthy. The Lakers will need both of those stars to have any chance in the playoffs, especially in a deeper conference where nearly all teams have play-in-contention hopes.
18. Houston Rockets
Another 19-win improvement is doubtful, but the Houston Rockets are looking to make another big leap in the standings and possibly make the postseason. It will be a big season for the Rockets as they determine if they will extend either Alprhen Segrun and/or Jalen Green. It will be intriguing to see how Reed Sheppard will contribute as the latest 3rd pick in the draft who will provide shooting to a team that ranked 23rd in 3-point shooting last season. The future just got much brighter in Houston compared to where they were 18 months ago with plenty of players under 25 with upside.
19. Los Angeles Clippers
The Clippers appear to be heading towards a rebuild, but the term “rebuild” shouldn’t be used so casually because they will be entering in their new state-of-the-art arena in Inglewood. It appears that Kawhi Leonard had a procedure done on his right knee and he will be held out of drills and may not be ready for opening week. If I were doing a fantasy basketball team, I believe James Harden would be primed for a bounce-back year as the main scoring option on a team that doesn’t have a lot of shot-creators. Can Harden return to Houston Rocket James Harden? Don’t count it since he is now 35 and is not in his prime. But don’t be surprised if he has somewhat of a resurgent season.
20. Miami Heat
Oh, the Heat. An overachieving team that continues to stay relevant, despite not making legitimate moves. Their biggest loss was Caleb Martin, who was arguably the Eastern Conference Finals MVP back in 2023. However, Miami will continue to find ways to utilize their young core and farm system. As long as Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo are on the roster, the Heat will still be a team to fear in the postseason. The big question that will be lingering all season will be; Are Butler’s days numbered? At least Miami will have Terry Rozier and Josh Richardson for a whole season, especially for a team that struggled offensively, especially when their 3-point shot wasn’t hitting.
21. San Antonio Spurs
The Spurs are going to be intriguing and for one reason and one reason only. Victor Wembyama. The 2023 number overall pick didn’t disappoint as he became the sixth unanimous Rookie of the Year winner and is already one of the top defensive players in the league. Also, when the Spurs had a solid point guard option, the Spurs were actually decent and they improved steadily throughout last season. The Spurs will have a all-time great point guard in Chris Paul who will provide veteran leadership. If Wemby becomes a legit MVP candidate and top five player in the league, San Antonio might have a chance to break their postseason drought. San Antonio is primed for a big jump in total wins this year.
22. Atlanta Hawks
By trading DeJounte Murray, the Hawks are looking to be more of what they currently are. A high fast-paced offensive team that is severely compromised on the defensive end. It will be intriguing to see what direction Atlanta decides to take throughout the season. Do they decide to keep contending for the playoffs with Trae Young? Or do they decide to rebuild around younger players like Jalen Johnson and number pick Zaccharie Risacher? I believe depending on how their season goes will determine if they go for playoff contention or become one of the NBA’s biggest sellers come February.
23. Chicago Bulls
It will be hard to tell what the final direction for the Bulls will be this season currently. It appeared that the start of a rebuild was likely. But the question is will it continue? The partnership between the Bulls and Zach Lavine has been rocky. It will not only be about what Chicago can get for Lavine and when the trade will happen. How about Nikola Vuceivic? Nevertheless, if the front office decides to complete the fire sale, then Bulls fans will see how young players Josh Giddey, Cody White, and others perform with big minutes. The Bulls will lose their draft pick to the Spurs if it falls outside the top 10.
24. Toronto Raptors
The Raptors appear to be locked into a core for the foreseeable future after extending both Scottie Barnes and Immanuel Quickley to big contracts. Toronto will be looking to bounce back after their worst season in 13 seasons. It will be important for both Barnes and Quickley along with RJ Barrett to prove they can be the core that leads the Raptors back into the postseason as contenders. It might not be this season, but we’re hoping a full season of this trio should result in more wins. The bright side is that this team will be fast and fun to watch. Toronto was one of the top teams in fast break points and assists all last season. Raptors fans are hoping Scottie Barnes can build off of last season’s all-star appearance and become a franchise player for Toronto.
25. Utah Jazz
The only real move that was made by the Jazz was the contract extension of Lauri Markannen. This is a team where it’s a bit puzzling to know what direction are they heading in. Do they try to compete with Lauri and do a soft rebuild? Or does Utah finally bottom out and try to get a top pick in the draft? As currently constructed and positioned, it appears the Jazz will be closer to the bottom than anticipated. This is due to a very young roster, especially in the backcourt along with how much better the Western Conference is. Maybe the contract extension was a move by Utah to make Markannen a more tradable piece to acquire more draft capital after this season.
26. Charlotte Hornets
Don’t sleep on Charlotte this season. If healthy, this team has a case to become one of the breakout teams. Let’s not forget that in the seasons when LaMelo Ball was fully healthy, Charlotte was in the play-in tournament with a near .500 record. Obviously, the core back 3 seasons ago had more veterans, but LaMelo was also in his first 2 seasons with the club. Now with LaMelo entering his prime, the Hornets are looking to bounce back after 2 horrific seasons struggling with youth and the injury bug. This Hornets’ projected starting lineup has an average age of 23 years old with Miles Bridges being the oldest at 26. It will be intriguing to see how exciting the offense will be with Ball running the show and if Brandon Miller and LaMelo can gel in the backcourt.
27. Detroit Pistons
There is no way that the Pistons have not reached rock bottom. Last year, the team finished 14-68 and they looked completely dysfunctional. With a new coach and new GM, Detroit is finally looking to turn things around. The roster still has some good young pieces, and they have some veterans who could help win some games and provide leadership. Cade Cunningham looked like he was a future all-star last season and if the Pistons can win more games he might get more all-star recognition. Detroit is hoping new JB Bickerstaff can help develop their young talent and get them competitive again like his success in Cleveland.
28. Washington Wizards
This team is going to be at the bottom again. Are we expecting a worse finish than last year? Maybe. Maybe not. The Wizards replaced their point guard Tyus Jones with injury-prone Malcolm Bragdon. Their biggest free agency signing was wait for it… Jonas Valanciunas. Yep. It will be another year focusing on their lottery position. At least there will be some young pieces to watch out for mainly the second overall pick in Alex Sarr and 2023 pick Bilal Coulibaly. Who knows, maybe Jordan Poole will have a resurgent year after an underperforming first season in DC. Look for the Wizards to move some veterans at the deadline possibly.
29. Brooklyn Nets
With Bridges being dealt this past summer, look for the Brooklyn Nets to spend most of their season in the cellar of the NBA. This will be the right choice because their draft pick is protected 1-4 meaning the Nets must be bad enough to increase their odds of landing a top 4 pick. If Ben Simmons is really believing he is looking to have a bounce-back year then the Nets might have another tradeable asset to acquire more youth and draft capital. Otherwise, it will be a contract they can’t wait for to end. It will be interesting to see how Cam Thomas will respond as the likely number option. Thomas has the potential to be a fantasy boom player.
30. Portland Trail Blazers
I am not saying the Portland Trail Blazers will be the worst team in the NBA. But, the Blazers play in a much tougher conference where 13, possibly 14 teams have a shot at least making the play-in. Let’s not forget they play a team in the Western Conference 52 times a season. Nevertheless, this team will be one of the youngest in the NBA with only 30-year-old player Jerami Grant as their only starter older than the age of 30. With Bragdon dealt, there will be a stronger sample size to determine if Scoot Henderson is that guy. Look for the possibility of more veterans to be moved for more youth and draft capital.
Main Image: Peter Casey-Imagn Images
