NBA Offseason Update
With over seven weeks remaining in the NBA offseason, the summer has already been eventful. Major highlights include the Houston Rockets acquiring Kevin Durant, the Denver Nuggets enhancing their roster around Nikola Jokic, and the Orlando Magic making a significant effort to compete in the East. A major trade, potentially involving Giannis Antetokounmpo, could still occur before training camps start, yet the outlook for the 2025-26 season seems more defined than ever.
Injury and Competitor Impacts
As the offseason progresses, some teams may struggle due to injuries, while others might fall behind after rival teams made bold moves. Accurately predicting the NBA standings in August is tricky, but certain teams appear headed for a challenging season ahead.
Teams Likely to Underperform
Here are six teams that are expected to have a tougher time in the upcoming season compared to last year.
The Lakers’ Offseason Moves
After trading for Luka Doncic, the Lakers performed well last season, ending with an 18-10 record to secure the No. 3 seed in the Western Conference. However, they faced a first-round playoff exit against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Looking to improve, LA added Deandre Ayton, Jake LaRavia, and Marcus Smart. While LeBron James seems likely to return, concerns about perimeter defense remain. The team’s lack of a clear defensive stopper could hinder their performance, so they might settle for a No. 5 or No. 6 seed this year—a slight decline from last season.
Bucks’ Roster Concerns
The Bucks possess the top player in the Eastern Conference, Giannis Antetokounmpo. However, with the Celtics and Pacers potentially struggling due to injuries, Milwaukee’s roster appears weaker than in past seasons. The departure of Damian Lillard leaves a significant gap in production, and without a capable replacement, the Bucks face a tough road ahead. Additionally, uncertainty surrounds Giannis’s future in Milwaukee, adding to the overall pessimism about the team’s prospects.
Celtics’ Challenges Ahead
With Jayson Tatum’s recent Achilles injury, the Celtics’ season seems doomed before it begins. The team has been proactive in making roster changes, trading away key players but still retaining some talent in Jaylen Brown and Derrick White. However, the frontcourt depth is severely lacking, and aspirations for the playoffs seem dim, with many predicting they might not even secure a playoff berth in a declining Eastern Conference.
Warriors’ Uncertain Future
The Warriors were below .500 when acquiring Jimmy Butler, but finished strong last season. However, they haven’t added any significant pieces this offseason and the team’s dynamics leave much to be desired. Concerns over the health and performance of aging stars like Stephen Curry and Draymond Green may further complicate their playoff aspirations, as their reliance on older players could leave them vulnerable.
Pacers and Kings: Year of Transition
Tyrese Haliburton’s torn Achilles has set the Pacers back, and they, like the Celtics, appear ready to focus on rebuilding. Losing Myles Turner adds to their challenges, yet they have young players ready to step up. The Kings, although not tanking, have a tough road ahead due to their defensive weaknesses and lack of point guard depth. Without a clear path to the playoffs, the outlook for both teams may involve significant challenges as they seek to develop for the future.
