The 2024-25 NBA season is rapidly approaching with considerable anticipation building around several teams. Among them, the Boston Celtics are generating significant buzz. Coming off a stellar season with 64 wins, the Celtics have a win total projection of 58.5 for the new season. Remarkably, this marks the first time since 2009 that the Celtics have surpassed this win mark. Expectations are high in Boston, and rightfully so, considering their impressive performance last year.
Another team to watch is the Oklahoma City Thunder, who have a projected win total of 55.5. Meanwhile, the Brooklyn Nets find themselves at the opposite end of the spectrum. Projected to have the lowest win total for the upcoming season, the Nets are in the midst of a significant rebuild following the trade of star player Mikal Bridges.
In comparison, the Portland Trail Blazers and the Washington Wizards have modest win projections of 21.5 and 22.5, respectively. These teams face challenges ahead, but their fanbases remain hopeful for development and future success.
Cleveland Cavaliers: New Leadership and Rising Stars
The Cleveland Cavaliers enter the new season with optimism. After winning 48 games last season, the Cavaliers' core players—Donovan Mitchell, Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen—had limited on-court time together. This season, they aim to maximize their potential under the guidance of new head coach Kenny Atkinson. His leadership could be the key to unlocking the team’s full capabilities.
Phoenix Suns: Coaching Changes and Solid Performance
The Phoenix Suns ended their previous season with 49 wins and a transition in coaching. Mike Budenholzer has taken the helm, replacing Frank Vogel. Known for his strategic acumen, Budenholzer is expected to steer the Suns towards continued success.
Detroit Pistons: Rebuilding with Promise
The Detroit Pistons had the league’s worst record last season, leading to significant changes. Monty Williams was terminated as head coach, and J.B. Bickerstaff has stepped in to fill the role. Bickerstaff inherits a promising young core featuring Cade Cunningham, Jalen Duren, and Jaden Ivey. The Pistons also bolstered their roster by adding veterans Tobias Harris, Malik Beasley, and Paul Reed.
Bickerstaff remains hopeful: "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." His enthusiasm reflects the renewed energy surrounding the Pistons this season.
Los Angeles Lakers: Health is Wealth
The Los Angeles Lakers, who won 47 games last season, face a crucial question regarding the health of their star players. LeBron James played 71 games, while Anthony Davis appeared in 76. As one NBA analyst put it, "The question for this year is whether the Lakers can count on both James and Davis to stay healthy in 2024-25." This makes their health a pivotal factor for the team's success this season.
Furthermore, the Lakers added rookies Dalton Knecht and Bronny James to their roster. With J.J. Reddick as their new head coach, the Lakers are looking to balance experience and fresh talent to improve on their mid-tier offensive and defensive ratings from last season.
Los Angeles Clippers: Adjusting to Changes
On the other side of Los Angeles, the Clippers had a solid season with 51 wins but will face new challenges. Paul George was traded to the Philadelphia 76ers, and Kawhi Leonard missed the final eight games last season. Whether the Clippers can maintain their competitive edge remains to be seen.
Milwaukee Bucks: Seeking Eastern Conference Dominance
In Milwaukee, the Bucks anticipate another competitive season after finishing with 49 wins and ranking 19th in defense. Giannis Antetokounmpo is entering his age-30 season, and the team has added promising rookies AJ Johnson and Tyler Smith. Despite these moves, the Celtics, 76ers, and Knicks are favored to win the Eastern Conference over the Bucks. Milwaukee will need to address its defensive challenges to rise to the top.
As the new NBA season approaches, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how these narratives unfold. Each team has its own set of challenges and opportunities, making for what promises to be an exhilarating season of basketball.