NBA Offseason Overview
As the 2025-26 NBA season approaches, the landscape has started to take shape, even if some players are still negotiating their contracts. Teams like the Houston Rockets, LA Clippers, Dallas Mavericks, and Denver Nuggets have redefined themselves through significant trades and astute draft choices, while franchises such as the Orlando Magic, Atlanta Hawks, and Milwaukee Bucks have gone for broke in an Eastern Conference that looks more competitive than ever.
In contrast, certain teams, such as the Chicago Bulls and New Orleans Pelicans, have left their supporters puzzled with their offseason decisions, especially as they attempt to maneuver within the constraints of the league’s restrictive salary cap. Here’s a comprehensive assessment of how each of the 30 NBA teams fared during this offseason.
Team Grades
Brooklyn Nets – Grade: C
The Nets had a unique opportunity to reshape their roster but made minimal impact thus far. Their approach to moving on from a team that barely made the Play-In Tournament last season was commendable. The successful trade-off of Cam Johnson yielded an unprotected 2032 first-round pick from the Nuggets, outshining the late-round picks they could have received from other playoff teams. They added solid pieces like Michael Porter Jr. during their rebuild, yet using all five first-round picks on players with overlapping skills was disappointing. They still have unresolved issues with restricted free agent Cam Thomas, whose market seems less promising than anticipated.
Boston Celtics – Grade: C
The Celtics have made a concerted effort to align themselves with the financial rules of the collective bargaining agreement by trimming their salary cap. However, their offseason has been underwhelming, losing key players like Kristaps Porziņģis and possibly Al Horford without adding significant replacements. Their present roster, featuring Neemias Queta and Luka Garza in the frontcourt, is among the least formidable in the league, and the team remains over the luxury-tax threshold. The challenge for general manager Brad Stevens lies ahead, as he must fill significant gaps while managing Jayson Tatum‘s injury.
New York Knicks – Grade: B+
Despite their tight salary cap situation, the Knicks added valuable role players in Jordan Clarkson and Guerschon Yabusele. These signings help shore up a bench that struggled during their playoff run. The team also secured a four-year, $150 million extension for Mikal Bridges, who brings versatility to both ends of the floor and helps maintain financial flexibility moving forward.
Philadelphia 76ers – Grade: B
The fortunes of the Sixers hinge on the health of stars like Joel Embiid and Paul George. This offseason, they added promising talent through the draft, including VJ Edgecombe, expected to flourish alongside Johni Broome. With the versatile Trendon Watford joining the ranks, Philadelphia appears deeper than last year, but the looming question of Embiid’s and George’s health remains.
Toronto Raptors – Grade: B-
After extending Brandon Ingram for three years, the Raptors didn’t spend much time in free agency. Their draft choice, Collin Murray-Boyles, may not fill immediate needs but aligns well with the team’s defensive mentality. Their decision to extend Jakob Poeltl came at a cost, though he still solidifies their lineup. Overall, their successful moves from last year overshadow their more recent efforts.
Chicago Bulls – Grade: D+
With fans yearning for a definitive direction, the Bulls have opted for more of the same, extending coach Billy Donovan but failing to utilize valuable assets as they moved on from Lonzo Ball. Internal development is paramount if they hope for any progress moving forward.
Detroit Pistons – Grade: B
General manager Trajan Langdon took a patient approach this offseason, banking on the growth of young talents. They re-signed essential players and secured promising rookie contributors, keeping their options open within a competitive Eastern Conference.
Miami Heat – Grade: A-
The Heat showed considerable skill in upgrading their roster, landing Norman Powell and drafting Kasparas Jakučionis, regarded by many as an undervalued prospect. They retain crucial members of their core and have room to get involved in potential major moves, like acquiring Terry Rozier.
Orlando Magic – Grade: A-
The Magic made headlines by trading for Desmond Bane while also extending superstar Paolo Banchero. Although they sacrificed future picks, their moves signal a serious commitment to competing in the East, aiming to put together their strongest team in years.
Conclusion
Overall, the offseason has greatly reshaped the NBA’s competitive structure, with teams aggressively pursuing upgrades to make their mark. As teams finalize their rosters and injuries are addressed, excitement mounts for another thrilling NBA season.
