Every NBA Team’s Best Strength And Major Weakness Ahead Of The 2024-25 Season

The new NBA season is right around the corner, and every team has something to brag about, but also a few things they probably wish they could sweep under the rug. Whether it’s a dominant offense, a lockdown defense, or just pure star power, there’s always that one thing a team can lean on. At the same time, no squad is perfect, and even the top contenders have some glaring weaknesses that could be their downfall. From championship favorites to rebuilding teams, let’s dive into what each team brings to the table and what might hold them back as the 2024-25 season tips off.

Atlanta Hawks

Best Strength: Still have Trae Young as their offensive engine

Even after a whirlwind offseason that saw the departure of Dejounte Murray, Trae Young remains the heart and soul of the Hawks’ offense. His ability to dominate the pick-and-roll, create shots from deep, and find his teammates with precision passes keeps Atlanta's offense alive. Trae averaged 25.7 points and 10.8 assists in the 2023-24 season, and now, without Murray sharing the backcourt, Young will take on an even bigger role as the undisputed floor general. With new additions like Dyson Daniels and veteran Larry Nance Jr. providing depth, Young’s leadership and offensive production will continue to be the cornerstone of the Hawks' success.

Major Weakness: Too much youth and uncertainty to contend

The Hawks now find themselves in a bit of a reset mode after trading away Dejounte Murray to the Pelicans. While the return—two future first-round picks, Larry Nance Jr., Dyson Daniels, and E.J. Liddell—sets up future flexibility, it also leaves Atlanta with a young and somewhat unproven supporting cast around Trae Young. Their No. 1 overall draft pick, Zaccharie Risacher, is filled with promise, but as a 19-year-old, he’s unlikely to contribute at an All-Star level right away. Players like Jalen Johnson and Onyeka Okongwu have shown flashes of potential, but the Hawks are now reliant on rapid development from their younger core to remain competitive in a tough Eastern Conference. With the roster in transition and lacking experienced depth, it’s hard to see this team contending for a title in the short term.

Boston Celtics

Best Strength: Elite two-way versatility and depth

The Boston Celtics are entering the 2024-25 season with a loaded roster. Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown are still the cornerstones, but the additions of Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis give them a new edge on both ends of the court. Holiday’s perimeter defense, leadership, and experience complement Tatum and Brown’s offensive firepower, while Porzingis provides much-needed size, rim protection, and spacing on offense. The team's depth, combined with versatile defenders like Derrick White, makes Boston one of the toughest teams to score against in the league. Holiday’s ability to defend the best guards, along with Porzingis' shot-blocking and shooting, gives them options to switch on defense and stretch the floor offensively. Their roster is built to compete with any contender in the league.

Major Weakness: Injury concerns and lack of established big man depth

Despite all their talent, Boston’s success will depend heavily on the health of their key players, particularly Kristaps Porzingis. While he’s progressing from offseason ankle surgery, his history of injuries remains a major concern. Porzingis' availability will be crucial since the Celtics lack proven depth at the center position after his acquisition. Should Porzingis miss time, the Celtics would need to rely on Al Horford—who's 38 years old—and Luke Kornet, neither of whom are guaranteed to provide consistent production at this stage. If their frontcourt depth is tested, the Celtics might struggle to maintain their interior presence, making them vulnerable against teams with dominant big men.

Brooklyn Nets

Best Strength: Building for the future with young assets and draft capital

The Brooklyn Nets have fully embraced a rebuilding phase after trading Mikal Bridges to the New York Knicks in a blockbuster deal during the 2024 offseason. In exchange, the Nets acquired Bojan Bogdanovic, Shake Milton, Mamadi Diakite, and a massive haul of draft picks, including five first-rounders stretching through 2031. This influx of assets positions the team to potentially build a strong future. Nic Claxton remains a cornerstone on the defensive end, and young players like Cam Thomas will have the opportunity to take on larger roles. Brooklyn’s focus is clearly on developing talent and leveraging their draft capital to find future stars.

Major Weakness: Lack of a true star and offensive firepower

With the departure of Bridges, the Nets are left without a go-to scorer or true franchise player. While Bojan Bogdanovic is a solid veteran and Claxton excels defensively, neither can carry a team offensively in the way Bridges or a top-tier star would. This leaves Brooklyn relying on unproven or inconsistent scorers like Cam Thomas, which may lead to struggles in generating offense, especially in late-game situations. The team’s path to success likely involves a long-term rebuild, as they currently lack the firepower to compete with the stronger teams in the East.

Charlotte Hornets

Best Strength: Young core led by LaMelo Ball

The Hornets' brightest hope lies in their young core, headlined by LaMelo Ball, who is entering his prime. Ball is the engine of their offense, with his flashy passing and court vision making him a constant threat. The Hornets also have promising young talents in Mark Williams and Brandon Miller, the No. 2 overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft. Williams, a strong rim protector, showed promise as a defensive anchor, while Miller adds another versatile scorer and defender to the lineup. With these young players, Charlotte has the potential to develop into a dangerous team if they can stay healthy and continue to grow.

Major Weakness: Lack of veteran leadership and inconsistent play

Despite having promising young pieces, the Hornets lack veteran leadership and consistency. Their offense often relies too heavily on LaMelo Ball, and they struggle when he’s off the court. Additionally, there’s uncertainty regarding the development of some key players like Brandon Miller, who still has to adjust to the NBA level. The absence of an established veteran who can lead and stabilize the team in tough moments, combined with defensive lapses and inconsistent shooting, makes it hard for the Hornets to compete at a high level in a crowded Eastern Conference.

Chicago Bulls

Best Strength: A mix of young talent and veterans

The Bulls have undergone some significant changes this offseason, starting with the departure of DeMar DeRozan to the Kings and the acquisition of Josh Giddey from the Thunder, who is now expected to take over as the starting point guard. This balance of young talent, like Patrick Williams—who signed a five-year extension—and rookie Matas Buzelis, paired with established veterans such as Zach LaVine and Nikola Vucevic, gives Chicago a blend of experience and potential. Giddey’s playmaking and versatility, combined with Williams’ two-way potential, position the Bulls to remain competitive while still developing younger players.

Major Weakness: Uncertainty around the direction of the roster

Despite the talent on the roster, the Bulls seem to be stuck between two timelines—contending for a play-in spot and committing to a full rebuild. LaVine and Vucevic, both on significant contracts, are still with the team, but their futures remain uncertain. LaVine is coming off season-ending foot surgery, and his trade value may not be as high as the Bulls would like. Meanwhile, Vucevic, at 34, might not be able to maintain his production over the next couple of seasons. This uncertainty could prevent the Bulls from making the leap needed to compete with the stronger teams in the East.

Cleveland Cavaliers

Best Strength: Star duo of Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland

The Cavaliers are anchored by one of the most dynamic backcourts in the league with Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland. Mitchell had an outstanding second season with Cleveland, averaging 26.6 points and 6.1 assists in the 2023-24 season, while Garland continued to thrive as a playmaker, putting up 18.0 points and 6.5 assists per game. Their ability to create offense, both for themselves and their teammates, makes Cleveland a threat to any team. Combined with the defense of Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen, the Cavs have the potential to be one of the most balanced teams in the East.

Major Weakness: Inconsistent wing production and floor spacing

While the Cavs have a strong core, they still lack consistent production from the wing, which was evident in their early playoff exit last season. Their starting small forward position has been in flux, and despite signing players like Max Strus, it remains unclear if they have a reliable 3-and-D player to complement Mitchell and Garland. Additionally, Cleveland struggled with floor spacing last season, ranking near the bottom of the league in three-point attempts and makes. If the Cavs can’t find consistent shooting to open up the floor for their guards and big men, it could limit their offensive ceiling.

Dallas Mavericks

Best Strength: Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving’s chemistry

The Dallas Mavericks found success in 2024, reaching the NBA Finals largely due to the improved chemistry between Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving. After a rocky start, they spent the offseason building synergy, which elevated their play and that of their teammates. Doncic, coming off a season where he averaged 32.6 points, and Irving now form one of the most potent backcourt duos in the league, bolstered by new additions like Klay Thompson, who provides elite shooting.

Major Weakness: Interior defense is still a concern

Despite their offensive firepower, Dallas continues to struggle defensively, particularly in the paint. The team lacks a strong interior presence to protect the rim, a problem that wasn’t fully addressed in the offseason. While Dereck Lively and Daniel Gafford have shown promise, neither has proven to be a reliable defensive anchor. This could leave the Mavericks vulnerable against teams with strong frontcourt players.

Denver Nuggets

Best Strength: Star power and continuity

The Denver Nuggets head into the 2024-25 season with their core still intact, led by three-time MVP Nikola Jokic . His unmatched playmaking and leadership make the Nuggets a constant threat on both ends of the floor. Jamal Murray, Aaron Gordon, Michael Porter Jr., and Christian Braun round out the starting five, giving Denver one of the most cohesive units in the league. The addition of veteran Russell Westbrook adds another dynamic element to the team, bringing energy and experience off the bench. With their continuity and star power, the Nuggets remain one of the top contenders.

Major Weakness: Loss of key depth pieces

While Denver’s starting lineup is formidable, their depth has taken a hit. Losing Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, who was crucial on both ends of the floor, creates a void that unproven players like Peyton Watson and Christian Braun will need to fill. The arrival of Westbrook could help in terms of bench production, but there are concerns about how his style fits with Jokic and Murray. Additionally, their frontcourt depth remains a question, despite signing Dario Saric to provide more versatility.

Detroit Pistons

Best Strength: Young core led by Cade Cunningham

The Pistons are banking on their young talent to drive their rebuild, with Cade Cunningham leading the charge after a breakout 2023-24 season where he posted career-highs in points (22.7), assists (7.5), and three-point percentage (35.5%). Cunningham’s five-year max extension solidifies him as the franchise player. The team has also added shooting and veteran leadership in Tobias Harris, Malik Beasley, and Simone Fontecchio, moves aimed at improving their floor spacing and giving Cunningham more room to operate.

Major Weakness: Unproven supporting cast and lack of defensive consistency

While the Pistons made some key acquisitions, many of their supporting players remain unproven. Rookies like Ron Holland and Bobi Klintman will need time to develop, and the team still lacks a solid defensive identity, having been one of the worst defensive teams last season. With a new front office led by Trajan Langdon and head coach J.B. Bickerstaff, the Pistons are focused on a long-term rebuild, but the immediate future may still include growing pains.

Golden State Warriors

Best Strength: Veteran leadership and Steph Curry’s brilliance

The Warriors enter the 2024-25 season with Stephen Curry still leading the way after another strong year. His playmaking and scoring continue to be the heartbeat of the team. Despite the roster aging, Curry remains a top-level player, and with Draymond Green’s leadership and defensive presence, the Warriors still have a formidable foundation. Andrew Wiggins is expected to take on a bigger role, especially with the departure of longtime core member Klay Thompson, who left in free agency. The team also brought in veteran shooter Buddy Hield to maintain some floor spacing.

Major Weakness: Lack of star-level support and aging roster

Golden State is dealing with the aftermath of Klay Thompson’s departure, which leaves a void in terms of shooting and experience. The team’s core, including Green and Curry, is aging, and while they still have some young talent like Brandin Podziemski, the roster lacks another star to complement Curry. The Warriors also failed to land a significant second option in free agency or via trade, leaving them reliant on their veterans staying healthy and productive throughout the season.

Houston Rockets

Best Strength: Young core with potential to grow

The Rockets are building around a promising young core, led by Jalen Green, Alperen Sengun, and Jabari Smith Jr. Green showed flashes of stardom last season, and Sengun had a breakout year, finishing third in the Most Improved Player voting. Additionally, the Rockets have new talent in Reed Sheppard, the No. 3 pick in the 2024 draft, who brings impressive shooting skills, and Cam Whitmore, expected to have a bigger year. With these young players developing under head coach Ime Udoka, the Rockets have a foundation that can compete in the near future.

Major Weakness: Lack of immediate experience and proven consistency

Despite their young talent, the Rockets lack consistent veteran leadership and could struggle with growing pains. Although Fred VanVleet and Dillon Brooks provide much-needed experience, Houston is still figuring out how to make all the pieces fit. The team also needs to address its shooting consistency, as they ranked 23rd in the league last season in three-point percentage. While Whitmore and Sheppard could help in this area, it’s unclear how quickly they’ll be able to contribute at a high level.

Indiana Pacers

Best Strength: Balanced roster with proven and rising talent

The Pacers are coming off a strong 2023-24 season, finishing with a 47-35 record and an Eastern Conference Finals appearance. They re-signed Pascal Siakam to a four-year max contract, keeping a crucial two-way star on their roster. Tyrese Haliburton, who battled injuries in the playoffs, will return as the centerpiece of their offense, driving the team’s up-tempo style. Additionally, Obi Toppin re-signed after thriving in Indiana’s system, adding athleticism and floor spacing. The Pacers’ balance between seasoned veterans like Siakam and rising stars like Haliburton makes them a competitive force in the East.

Major Weakness: Defensive consistency and depth

While the Pacers have an impressive core, they still face questions about their defensive consistency, particularly in the backcourt. Despite Myles Turner’s presence as an elite rim protector, the Pacers often struggled to lock down opponents on the perimeter. They also lack proven depth in certain positions, especially at small forward and backup guard, where they rely on less-established players like Johnny Furphy and Tristen Newton. If these younger pieces don’t develop quickly, Indiana may find itself vulnerable, particularly against stronger offensive teams in the East.

Los Angeles Clippers

Best Strength: Versatile wing play and elite shot creators

With Paul George now gone, the Clippers are building around Kawhi Leonard and James Harden. Leonard remains one of the top two-way players in the league when healthy, while Harden is expected to take on a bigger offensive role after re-signing with the Clippers on a two-year deal. The team also added Kris Dunn, a strong defensive guard, and Derrick Jones Jr., who brings additional defensive versatility and athleticism. Harden’s playmaking, combined with Leonard’s elite shot creation, gives the Clippers a formidable offensive core.

Major Weakness: Injury concerns and lack of depth in key positions

The Clippers’ primary weakness remains their reliance on older stars with significant injury histories. Kawhi Leonard and Harden are both past their prime, and Leonard’s availability has been a constant issue. Meanwhile, the departure of Paul George and Russell Westbrook leaves the team with a thinner rotation. While Dunn and Jones Jr. add defense, the Clippers’ depth in key positions—especially at center—remains questionable, with Mohamed Bamba and Ivica Zubac expected to shoulder most of the load.

Related: Every NBA Team's Biggest Question Before The 2024-25 Season Starts

Los Angeles Lakers

Best Strength: Star power with LeBron James and Anthony Davis

Despite their cap limitations, the Los Angeles Lakers remain anchored by LeBron James and Anthony Davis, who are still performing at an elite level. LeBron re-signed to a two-year deal, and with Anthony Davis coming off his healthiest season in years, playing 76 games, the Lakers' star duo is the backbone of their success. Austin Reaves also took a leap last season, becoming a reliable third option on both ends of the floor. With continuity and depth in their core, the Lakers are poised to compete in the West.

Major Weakness: Lack of impactful offseason moves and injury concerns

The Lakers’ offseason was relatively quiet, focusing mostly on retaining their key players like Reaves, Rui Hachimura, and D’Angelo Russell. While they brought back Christian Wood and Jaxson Hayes, these moves didn’t significantly upgrade the roster. Injuries remain a constant concern, particularly with James and Davis, who have a history of missing extended time. Additionally, the lack of substantial roster improvements might limit their ability to compete with the top-tier teams in the West.

Memphis Grizzlies

Best Strength: Star Power and Defensive Additions

The Grizzlies are set to bounce back in the 2024-25 season, with a healthy core of Ja Morant, Desmond Bane, and Jaren Jackson Jr. leading the charge. Morant’s return from injury and suspension will significantly elevate their offense, while Jackson, although no longer the reigning Defensive Player of the Year, remains a dominant force on defense. The addition of Marcus Smart, one of the best defensive guards in the league, strengthens their perimeter defense and adds valuable leadership. With these players healthy, Memphis has the star power and defensive versatility to make noise in the West.

Major Weakness: Frontcourt Depth and Injury Concerns

While Memphis has a solid core, they face challenges in their frontcourt after losing Steven Adams to a trade and with GG Jackson sidelined due to foot surgery. Rookie Zach Edey is expected to fill in at center, but his readiness at the NBA level is uncertain. This lack of proven depth in the paint, combined with the team’s injury history—especially with Morant and Brandon Clarke—poses a risk as they navigate the competitive Western Conference.

Miami Heat

Best Strength: Defensive versatility and depth in the frontcourt

The Miami Heat have retained a strong foundation with Bam Adebayo, who recently signed a three-year, $165 million extension, continuing to be the defensive anchor. They also added much-needed athleticism in the frontcourt by drafting 7-footer Kel’el Ware with the 15th pick. His presence provides a shot-blocking option behind Adebayo. Veterans like Kevin Love and Thomas Bryant re-signed, giving the Heat solid rotational options at power forward and center. With the addition of Alec Burks for bench scoring and promising young talent like Jaime Jaquez Jr., Miami's depth gives them flexibility on both ends of the court.

Major Weakness: Lack of consistent perimeter shooting and health concerns

Miami’s offseason was marked by the departure of Caleb Martin, a key 3-and-D contributor, leaving the Heat short on reliable perimeter defense and shooting. They also continue to rely heavily on older players like Jimmy Butler and Terry Rozier, both of whom missed crucial playoff games last season. If these veterans can’t stay healthy, Miami will struggle to maintain its competitiveness, especially without adding a major offensive star this offseason.

Milwaukee Bucks

Best Strength: Star power with Giannis and Dame

The Bucks enter the 2024-25 season with one of the most dynamic duos in the league— Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard. Giannis, a two-time MVP, and Lillard, acquired in a blockbuster trade last season, provide a powerful one-two punch on offense. Both players are capable of taking over games and have complementary skill sets that make Milwaukee a contender for the title. The Bucks retained key veterans like Khris Middleton and Brook Lopez, keeping the team’s core intact.

Major Weakness: Cap limitations and aging supporting cast

While the Bucks have one of the best starting lineups in the league, their cap constraints limited their ability to make significant upgrades during the offseason. They signed players like Gary Trent Jr. and Delon Wright to bolster their depth, but their financial situation restricted them to minimum-salary contracts. Additionally, Milwaukee’s supporting cast, including Middleton and Lopez, is getting older, which could lead to durability and consistency issues over a long season.

Minnesota Timberwolves

Best Strength: Defensive frontcourt and rising star power

The Timberwolves remain a defensive force, led by Rudy Gobert and Jaden McDaniels, who form an elite frontcourt that can challenge even the best offenses. Gobert, fresh off another Defensive Player of the Year campaign, continues to dominate the paint. Meanwhile, Anthony Edwards has blossomed into a superstar, taking a huge leap in both scoring and leadership, positioning himself as one of the league's most exciting young players. Minnesota’s core of Edwards, Karl-Anthony Towns, and Gobert gives them a versatile group capable of making another deep playoff run.

Major Weakness: Cap limitations and backcourt depth

The Timberwolves’ proximity to the second tax apron significantly hampered their ability to make major upgrades this offseason. Despite adding Joe Ingles to replace Kyle Anderson, Minnesota didn’t address its lack of backcourt depth behind veteran Mike Conley. Rookie Rob Dillingham will be relied upon as the primary backup point guard, which could be risky for a team looking to contend in the West. Conley’s age (at 37 before the season) adds further uncertainty to the team's stability at the point guard position.

New Orleans Pelicans

Best Strength: Backcourt upgrade with Dejounte Murray

The Pelicans made one of the biggest moves of the offseason by acquiring All-Star guard Dejounte Murray from the Hawks. Murray brings elite defense, playmaking, and scoring, addressing one of New Orleans’ key weaknesses in their backcourt. Pairing him with Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram gives the Pelicans a dynamic trio capable of making noise in the West. Additionally, the Pelicans retained key pieces like Herb Jones and Trey Murphy III, maintaining their defensive identity and depth.

Major Weakness: Health concerns and roster cohesion

While the Pelicans have made significant improvements, their success will depend heavily on the health of their stars, particularly Zion Williamson, who has struggled to stay on the court. Both Ingram and Zion have dealt with injuries that disrupted team chemistry, and this remains a major concern for the upcoming season. Moreover, integrating Murray into the lineup and finding a cohesive offensive rhythm with these three stars could take time.

New York Knicks

Best Strength: Added firepower with Mikal Bridges and OG Anunoby

The Knicks made a huge splash this offseason by acquiring Mikal Bridges in a blockbuster trade with the Brooklyn Nets. Bridges brings both scoring and defensive versatility to the Knicks, creating a strong core alongside Jalen Brunson, Julius Randle, and OG Anunoby, who re-signed on a five-year, $212.5 million contract. Bridges adds another layer to the Knicks' offense, being able to create his own shot and contribute as a playmaker. With a defensively sound starting five and the Villanova connection between Bridges, Donte DiVincenzo, and Josh Hart, New York is poised to be a formidable force on both ends of the floor.

Major Weakness: Cap constraints and frontcourt depth

While the Knicks have solidified their core, they face challenges in terms of frontcourt depth, especially after losing Isaiah Hartenstein to the Thunder. The lack of reliable backup options behind Mitchell Robinson and Randle could become an issue, particularly with the Knicks being over the luxury tax, limiting their flexibility for future moves.

Oklahoma City Thunder

Best Strength: Defensive depth and added experience

The Thunder made strategic offseason moves to complement their young, talented roster. The addition of Alex Caruso via trade provides elite defensive capabilities and playoff experience, giving them a solid veteran presence in the backcourt. Pairing Caruso with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Chet Holmgren, who will be fully healthy for the 2024-25 season, bolsters the team’s defense. Isaiah Hartenstein, signed from the Knicks, will offer a much-needed interior presence and depth behind Holmgren, giving Oklahoma City a versatile and strong defensive front.

Major Weakness: Loss of key playmaking with Giddey’s departure

While the Thunder improved their defense, they traded away one of their primary playmakers in Josh Giddey. His unique ability to create shots and facilitate the offense will be missed, and while Caruso brings elite defense, he doesn’t replace Giddey’s playmaking. OKC is also banking on rookie Nikola Topic, who is recovering from an ACL injury, to contribute in the future, but it may take time for him to develop.

Orlando Magic

Best Strength: Defensive foundation with rising star power

The Magic continue to build on their defensive identity, finishing with the third-best defensive rating in the league last season. Led by Paolo Banchero, who earned his first All-Star nod, and Franz Wagner, the Magic have an incredibly young and talented core. They reinforced their backcourt by signing Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, a proven 3-and-D player, to a three-year, $66 million deal. His addition improves both perimeter defense and shooting—two areas where Orlando needed help. With Banchero, Wagner, and Wendell Carter Jr., the Magic have a solid defensive core ready to compete at a higher level.

Major Weakness: Offensive struggles and lack of shooting

While the Magic excel defensively, their offense remains inconsistent. Ranking near the bottom in three-point percentage and assists last season, they still lack a true facilitator to help run the offense. The departure of Markelle Fultz has left a gap in playmaking, and despite adding Tristan da Silva in the draft and bringing back Gary Harris, the team will need to find more consistent shooting if they want to take the next step in the Eastern Conference.

Philadelphia 76ers

Best Strength: Depth and star power with new additions

The 76ers had a busy offseason, headlined by the acquisition of Paul George, who signed a four-year max deal after leaving the Clippers. Pairing George with Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey gives the Sixers a dangerous trio capable of competing for a title. The team also added key role players like Caleb Martin, Andre Drummond, Eric Gordon, and Reggie Jackson to bolster their depth. With Maxey also signing a long-term extension, Philadelphia has a well-rounded team with a solid mix of scoring, defense, and veteran leadership.

Major Weakness: Age and injury concerns

While the Sixers have improved their roster, there are concerns about the age and health of key players. Paul George has struggled to stay healthy in recent years, and at 34, it's unclear how well he’ll hold up over a long season. Andre Drummond and Reggie Jackson, while solid veterans, are also past their prime, and the team’s success will depend heavily on keeping Embiid and George on the floor throughout the season.

Phoenix Suns

Best Strength: Offensive firepower with the "Big Three"

The Suns are entering the 2024-25 season with an incredibly potent trio of Devin Booker, Kevin Durant, and Bradley Beal. Despite injuries limiting their time together last season, this group remains one of the most explosive offensive combinations in the NBA. With all three players capable of creating their own shots and scoring from anywhere on the floor, the Suns have unmatched offensive versatility. They’ve also re-signed key role players like Grayson Allen and Royce O’Neale, whose defense and shooting will complement their stars perfectly.

Major Weakness: Injury risks and lack of frontcourt depth

While the Suns' top-heavy roster is packed with talent, the major concern lies in their injury history. Durant, Booker, and Beal have all missed significant time in recent seasons, and Phoenix will need them to stay healthy to be true contenders. Additionally, the frontcourt depth remains thin, especially after the departure of Drew Eubanks. Although Jusuf Nurkic is expected to anchor the center position, his own injury history could leave the Suns vulnerable in the paint.

Portland Trail Blazers

Best Strength: Youth and athleticism

The Trail Blazers are embracing a rebuild around a young, exciting core. Scoot Henderson, their No. 3 pick from 2023, is primed to take on the leadership role for the team. Alongside Henderson, the Blazers added Deni Avdija in a trade with the Wizards, bringing in a versatile forward who can impact both ends of the floor. The duo of Henderson and Avdija, coupled with Shaedon Sharpe and Deandre Ayton, gives Portland a foundation filled with athleticism, potential, and defensive prowess.

Major Weakness: Lack of veteran leadership

While the Blazers have promising young talent, they lack veteran leadership following the trade of Malcolm Brogdon to the Wizards. The team is relying on young players like Henderson, Sharpe, and Avdija to develop quickly, but the lack of proven depth could be a concern. Jerami Grant and Robert Williams III provide some experience, but injuries and inconsistent play from the supporting cast might limit Portland’s competitiveness in a tough Western Conference.

Sacramento Kings

Best Strength: Dynamic offense with DeMar DeRozan’s addition

The Kings are heading into the 2024-25 season with high expectations after adding DeMar DeRozan in a sign-and-trade. This move provides Sacramento with a strong scoring presence on the wing to pair with their All-Star duo of De'Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis. Fox's elite speed and playmaking combined with Sabonis' post play and DeRozan's mid-range scoring give the Kings one of the most balanced offensive attacks in the Western Conference. Keegan Murray's development as a versatile forward adds even more offensive versatility to this exciting core.

Major Weakness: Defensive potential and frontcourt consistency

While the Kings have improved their offense, their frontcourt is still a concern. They rely heavily on Sabonis for interior play, and the team lacks a reliable backup big man after the departure of Alex Len. Sacramento also needs to address its consistency and defensive problems, as they ranked near the bottom of the league in defense last season. Adding a more solid rim protector and wing lockdown could help the Kings make a deeper playoff push.

San Antonio Spurs

Best Strength: Victor Wembanyama's rise and new veterans

Victor Wembanyama had an incredible rookie season, finishing second in Defensive Player of the Year voting and earning unanimous Rookie of the Year honors. The Spurs are building around the 7'4" phenom, who showcased his elite shot-blocking and all-around game, averaging 23.7 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 4.6 blocks per game in the final month of the season. In addition, the Spurs added veteran point guard Chris Paul on a one-year deal, and Harrison Barnes in the DeRozan sign-and-trade. Paul's leadership will be invaluable for mentoring Wembanyama and guiding young talents like Stephon Castle, their No. 4 pick in the 2024 Draft.

Major Weakness: Inexperience and offensive struggles

Despite Wembanyama's dominance on defense, the Spurs struggled to generate consistent offense last season, and Wembanyama’s shooting efficiency was below average for a big man. The team's young core, while promising, still lacks the experience and playmaking needed to thrive in a competitive Western Conference. While Chris Paul's addition helps, the Spurs’ guard rotation remains thin, and they will need further development from players like Castle and Devin Vassell to improve their offensive flow.

Toronto Raptors

Best Strength: Building a young core around Scottie Barnes

The Raptors are in full rebuild mode, building their team around Scottie Barnes and Immanuel Quickley, who both signed long-term extensions this offseason. Barnes, now the franchise player, continues to grow as an elite defender while adding more offensive firepower to his game. Quickley’s playmaking and scoring ability provide stability in the backcourt. The addition of R.J. Barrett adds further versatility to a young core that has potential to develop into a competitive unit. With Barnes' continued rise, Toronto has a solid foundation for the future.

Major Weakness: Lack of veteran leadership and shooting

While the Raptors have a promising young core, they are still missing reliable veteran leadership and consistent shooting. The departure of Gary Trent Jr. leaves a gap in their perimeter offense, and the team will need players like Barrett and Quickley to step up in that department. Additionally, Toronto may be active at the trade deadline as they consider moving veterans like Jakob Poeltl and Kelly Olynyk to further embrace their rebuilding process.

Utah Jazz

Best Strength: Youth development and veteran mentorship

The Utah Jazz have embraced a development-focused approach this offseason, highlighted by their 2024 rookie class featuring Cody Williams, Isaiah Collier, and Kyle Filipowski. The Jazz retained All-Star Lauri Markkanen, securing him on a long-term deal, ensuring stability as they build around their young talent. In addition to their youth, the Jazz smartly added veterans Patty Mills and Svi Mykhailiuk. Though neither will play significant minutes, both bring invaluable experience to help guide the younger players. This balance between youth and veteran leadership positions the Jazz well for the future, with a focus on long-term growth.

Major Weakness: Lack of immediate star power and proven success

While the Jazz have a strong young core and have secured key veterans, they still lack a true superstar to carry them in the competitive Western Conference. The loss of Kris Dunn, their best defensive guard, leaves a gap in their perimeter defense, and the team’s overall inexperience could lead to inconsistency. As the Jazz continue their rebuild, finding a cornerstone star will be crucial to their eventual rise.

Washington Wizards

Best Strength: Rebuild with a promising young core

The Wizards are in the midst of a rebuild, with several young players and recent draft picks shaping their future. The acquisition of Malcolm Brogdon and Jonas Valanciunas adds veteran presence to help guide the younger talents, while Alexandre Sarr, the No. 2 overall pick, brings significant defensive upside to the team. Jordan Poole is expected to lead the offense, hoping to bounce back from an inconsistent season and prove himself as a primary scorer. With a focus on development under new head coach Brian Keefe, the Wizards aim to nurture their young talent and stack assets for the future.

Major Weakness: Lack of established star and defensive struggles

The Wizards' biggest challenge remains their lack of an established superstar to lead them through their rebuild. While Poole and Kyle Kuzma are solid players, neither has proven capable of being a franchise cornerstone. Additionally, the team still struggles defensively, especially on the perimeter, and will need significant improvement to become competitive in the near term. Their path forward hinges on how quickly their young players develop and if they can acquire more top-tier talent.

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