The 2024-25 NBA season has officially concluded, with the Oklahoma City Thunder emerging as the new league champions. The team conquered its first NBA title after defeating the Indiana Pacers in an exciting seven-game series.
After their first Finals appearance in over 10 years, the Thunder hold the top spot in our “Way-Too-Early” ranking. But, after some unpredictable playoffs, where did the 30 teams end up heading into the summer?
While we close another exciting NBA season, our writers reflect on the 30 teams, what to expect in this offseason, and lay the groundwork for what should be another competitive and unpredictable 2025-26 season.Note: Team rankings are based on the opinion of our panel members on where the teams should be after the 2024-25 NBA season.
Team Rankings
Oklahoma City Thunder
Caption: The Oklahoma City Thunder had the best regular season record in 2024-25 with 68-14.The Thunder, with a 68-14 record, were crowned NBA champions. With a core of rising talent, led by MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the team promises a bright future. Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren, also fundamental, are showing their potential. Key players are expected to sign lucrative contract extensions. In addition, the team will add Nikola Topic, who recovered from a knee injury. General Manager Sam Presti has important decisions about the second-round picks in the next draft.
Minnesota Timberwolves
The Timberwolves, who seemed like contenders, were eliminated in the conference finals by the Thunder. With important roster decisions ahead, due to player options for Julius Randle and Naz Reid, and the free agency of Nickeil Alexander-Walker, the team faces significant challenges.
Denver Nuggets
The Nuggets made significant changes before the end of the regular season, including the firing of coach Michael Malone and general manager Calvin Booth. Although they reached the second round, the loss to Oklahoma City, with Aaron Gordon limited by an injury, raises questions about their potential. The team needs to improve its depth and seek alternatives, as Russell Westbrook entered free agency.
Cleveland Cavaliers
The magical season of Cleveland ended abruptly against the Indiana Pacers. Darius Garland’s performance in the playoffs, after a standout regular season, was limited by an injury. Garland is expected to be ready for training camp after surgery on his left big toe.
Houston Rockets
The Rockets, despite demonstrating a good offense, need more to advance in the playoffs. With the arrival of Kevin Durant, the team seeks a veteran leader to complement their young talents. Durant and coach Ime Udoka will work together to strengthen the team, which finished second in the West but fell in the first round.
Indiana Pacers
The Pacers were one step away from a historic upset in the NBA Finals, but Tyrese Haliburton’s injury raises doubts. Haliburton suffered an injury in game 7 and did not return. Despite his promising season and the possibility of competing in the future, Haliburton’s injury puts his 2025-26 season at risk.
New York Knicks
The Knicks, after firing coach Tom Thibodeau, aim to win a championship, regardless of who the new coach is. With a talented starting five and a thin bench, the team needs improvements to achieve its goal next season.
Golden State Warriors
The Warriors are wondering how far they could have gone if Stephen Curry hadn’t been injured. They are looking to add players to complement Curry, Jimmy Butler III, and Draymond Green, focusing on improving size, two-way wings, and depth. Jonathan Kuminga, a restricted free agent, is key to the team.
Los Angeles Lakers
The Lakers, after losing to Minnesota in the first round, are focusing on finding a center. With the mid-level exception of the contributors, they seek to strengthen that position. Rui Hachimura, Gabe Vincent, and Maxi Kleber, with expiring contracts, offer flexibility in the trade market.
LA Clippers
The Clippers exceeded expectations after Paul George’s departure, showcasing a more balanced and defensive team. James Harden performed at a remarkable level, while Kawhi Leonard was absent. Ivica Zubac and Norman Powell were important. The Clippers will seek to improve and remain competitive through the trade market.
Detroit Pistons
The 2024-25 season was a success for the Pistons, increasing their wins and competing in the playoffs. Cade Cunningham, who made the All-NBA team, is key to the future. Young players, such as Jaden Ivey and Jalen Duren, are expected to continue improving.
Boston Celtics
With Jayson Tatum’s injury, the Celtics face a crucial offseason. The team is $23 million over the second limit and must decide how to move forward, with a team that won the championship in 2024 and could change significantly.
Orlando Magic
The Magic are looking for a major breakthrough in the standings. After injuries that ruined their 2024-25 season, the team acquired Desmond Bane to boost their offense. Bane, averaging 41% on 3-point shots, should improve the team’s attack.
Dallas Mavericks
The Mavericks, with long-term concerns, mitigated the problems with the arrival of Cooper Flagg, draft number 1. They will look for a replacement for Kyrie Irving, who will miss part of the 2025 season, and they hope to renew Irving’s contract.
Memphis Grizzlies
The Grizzlies, after changes in the coaching staff, are looking to implement new systems. The duo of Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr. is key, but the team needs to improve. The team has made moves to readjust its roster.
Milwaukee Bucks
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s future in Milwaukee is an important topic. After losing in the first round of the playoffs for the third consecutive year, the Bucks must decide how to build a team to compete for championships.
San Antonio Spurs
With Mitch Johnson at the helm and Victor Wembanyama in his third year, the Spurs are looking to advance to the playoffs in 2025-26. With the number 2 pick in the draft, the team is expected to add talent to complement their young group.
Miami Heat
The Heat, after reaching the play-in tournament and losing in the first round, have a lot of work ahead of them to regain their historical competitiveness. It will be a long process to close the gap.
Atlanta Hawks
After a restructuring at the main office, the Hawks are looking for…
