NBA Season Preview: Key Questions for Each Team
As the start of the NBA season approaches in less than a month, 25 teams are gearing up with their media days taking place on Monday, while the remaining squads completed theirs the previous week. The offseason has been a rollercoaster ride for franchises across the league, marked by trades, lengthy contract negotiations, and injuries that have added complications to team dynamics. With just 22 days until the preseason kicks off, unresolved issues linger for numerous teams.
In anticipation of the upcoming season, sports reporters evaluated the pressing questions each of the 30 teams must address as they prepare for the 2025-26 preseason. Key topics include the Golden State Warriors’ handling of the Jonathan Kuminga contract situation, the LA Clippers’ response to an ongoing league investigation concerning Kawhi Leonard, and the Indiana Pacers’ outlook after last season’s successes and challenges.
Notable Inquiries Facing Various NBA Teams
Atlanta Hawks: Is Trae Young prepared to lead a successful East contender?
With competitors like Boston and Milwaukee projected to struggle due to injuries, the Hawks are seizing the opportunity to ascend in the Eastern Conference. Reinforcements such as Kristaps Porzingis, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, and Luke Kennard have joined the team, providing Young, last season’s assists leader, with enhanced support. Young aims to validate his potential $229 million extension eligibility while integrating returning talent and emerging players like Jalen Johnson and Dyson Daniels.
Boston Celtics: What is the team’s strategy moving forward?
The Celtics have historically been driven by a championship-centric ambition. However, with Jayson Tatum nursing a torn Achilles and key trades involving Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis, the team’s focus appears to have shifted. Questions arise regarding whether Boston will pursue playoff contention or embark on a transitional phase this season.
Brooklyn Nets: How will Cam Thomas and Michael Porter Jr. fit into the offensive scheme?
With Thomas returning from hamstring issues that affected his previous campaign and Porter seeking a more prominent role following his trade from Denver, the dynamics of their playing time and scoring opportunities within the Nets’ system will be closely watched.
Charlotte Hornets: Can LaMelo Ball emerge as the franchise leader they need?
Ball has faced challenges over three seasons, with injuries limiting his playtime. However, his impressive numbers when healthy show promise. This season is crucial, not only for Ball’s development but for the Hornets as they look to build around him and fellow young talent such as Brandon Miller and Miles Bridges during this rebuilding phase.
Chicago Bulls: Which young talents will step up?
Transitioning from the established duo of DeMar DeRozan and Zach LaVine, the Bulls are now focused on nurturing a younger roster. They need one of their rising stars, like Josh Giddey or Coby White, to make significant strides if they hope to avoid another disappointing postseason outcome.
Cleveland Cavaliers: Will they bounce back following a playoff disappointment?
Following a stellar regular season, the Cavaliers faced a disheartening playoff exit. With their core of Mitchell, Mobley, Garland, and Allen intact, the pressure is on to refine their approach and resolve lingering questions about their future success after faltering last postseason.
Dallas Mavericks: When can fans expect Kyrie Irving’s return?
After undergoing ACL surgery, Irving provided promising updates on his recovery, with hopes of returning by January. In his absence, the Mavericks will rely on Anthony Davis and rookie Cooper Flagg to keep the team competitive.
Denver Nuggets: Can their improved depth and defense lead to playoff success?
With All-Star Nikola Jokic leading the charge, the Nuggets have bolstered their bench with key acquisitions. However, defensive weaknesses last season raise concerns about their ability to make a deep playoff run without significant improvements in that area.
Detroit Pistons: What role will Jaden Ivey play this season?
After an injury cut short last season, Ivey must find his place within a lineup that surged after his injury. The decision on whether he will start or serve as a sixth man is significant for both his and the Pistons’ prospects.
Golden State Warriors: Will contract issues with Jonathan Kuminga impact team harmony?
The ongoing contract discussions with Kuminga are crucial for his buy-in and future prospects within the Warriors. A resolution could significantly affect team dynamics, especially with an aging roster looking to compete.
Houston Rockets: Can they remain competitive in the wake of VanVleet’s injury?
Despite setbacks, the Rockets’ talented roster and coaching staff aim to navigate VanVleet’s potential long-term absence. Players already on the roster will need to step up as replacements to maintain upward momentum.
Indiana Pacers: What’s the outlook for a rebuilt roster?
After a strong postseason run, losing key players like Tyrese Haliburton poses challenges. With the team now in a rebuilding phase, they will explore new roles and strategies as they adjust to missing key contributions.
Los Angeles Clippers: How will they address an investigation into cap circumvention?
With the league investigating possible salary cap violations involving the team, the Clippers face potential distractions amidst player aging and a possible rebuild phase. Prioritizing clarity in the investigation’s implications will be vital for their season.
Los Angeles Lakers: Is this LeBron’s last season in purple and gold?
After a rocky playoff exit, questions arise whether the Lakers can remain competitive and if this is ultimately James’ final season in Los Angeles, especially considering the rigorous competition in the West.
Memphis Grizzlies: Does a reshuffle better position the team for success?
Following a critical reevaluation, Memphis looks to reconfigure while maintaining competitiveness. Their new leadership aims to build around their core players while integrating fresh talent efficiently.
Miami Heat: Can they recapture form after last season’s struggles?
With adjustments to their roster and significant changes in player availability, the Heat aim to bounce back with a new look this season despite already facing injury setbacks.
Milwaukee Bucks: Are they primed for another championship run with Giannis?
Despite an MVP-caliber season from Antetokounmpo, the Bucks face pressure to convert regular-season success into playoff victories amidst consistent first-round exits.
Minnesota Timberwolves: Are the young players ready for increased responsibility?
Following consecutive playoff defeats, the Timberwolves focus on developing their youthful talent as they face increasing pressure to perform amidst a roster shift.
New Orleans Pelicans: How will they navigate potential injury woes?
With past seasons marred by injuries, the Pelicans hope new acquisitions can provide stability and help mitigate their playoff hopes. The stakes are higher due to significant future draft implications.
New York Knicks: Will Mike Brown reshape the starting lineup?
With existing players transitioning into new roles, how Brown chooses to position his squad will be crucial for the Knicks’ aspirations as they look to build on last season.
Oklahoma City Thunder: Will there be a championship hangover?
As the defending champions, the Thunder aim to fend off complacency and remain sharp in their title defense against a demanding schedule and passionate competitors.
Orlando Magic: Can Desmond Bane elevate their young core?
The Magic hope that integrating Bane into their lineup, alongside promising young stars, can spark their quest for Eastern Conference success while maintaining overall health this season.
Philadelphia 76ers: Is Joel Embiid’s health the biggest concern?
Embiid’s physical condition will heavily dictate the team’s performance and playoff aspirations, with high stakes following previous disappointments.
Phoenix Suns: How will the rebuild affect Devin Booker’s legacy?
As the Suns undergo significant roster changes, Booker’s patience and continued development will be integral to navigating the franchise’s transition.
Portland Trail Blazers: Will Scoot Henderson step up as Damian Lillard rehabs?
With Lillard out, the Blazers hope Henderson can seize the opportunity to establish himself as the future cornerstone of the franchise, yet he faces an early-season injury setback.
Sacramento Kings: Can they compensate for defensive shortcomings?
Despite possessing considerable offensive talent, the Kings must address past defensive inefficiencies to remain competitive this season.
San Antonio Spurs: Is there a path to success without strong 3-point shooting?
While shooting may be a weakness, the Spurs can depend on effective slashing and skillful drives to create offensive opportunities this season.
Toronto Raptors: What will the new roster configuration reveal?
As Toronto embarks on the new season, the integration of new faces and the utilization of existing talent will shape their performance and strategic vision moving forward.
Utah Jazz: Can they progress in their rebuilding efforts?
With a young core and new veteran additions, the Jazz aim to make strides in their reconstruction process and solidify their future trajectory.
Washington Wizards: How will they support player development in a rebuilding year?
With significant changes in personnel, the Wizards are committed to fostering the growth of their young talent in hopes of cultivating a more competitive team culture.
