1. Golden State Warriors
Until they are dethroned, they are still the favorites to win again.
2. Los Angeles Lakers
The best player in the league has decided to take his talents out west.
3. Los Angeles Clippers
They’ve rebuilt this roster into a very cohesive and complimentary team.
4. Sacramento Kings
There’s plenty of talent, but what is the direction of this franchise?
5. Phoenix Suns
This will be a crucial year for this team that has a good core to build around. Continue reading
1. Oklahoma City Thunder
Russell Westbrook has a full commitment from Paul George. Now let’s see how this will play out.
2. Utah Jazz
They have a star in Donovan Mitchell and they will take advantage of his talents.
3. Denver Nuggets
As long as Nikola Jokic continues to improve they should have no problems getting to the playoffs this year.
4. Portland Trail Blazers
There’s no reason to think they’ll be in playoff contention, but this conference is stacked.
5. Minnesota Timberwolves
An offseason with a trade demand from Jimmy Butler only adds to the dysfunction in the organization. Continue reading
1. Houston Rockets
They were one win away from the Finals last year. They won’t change what worked for them last year.
2. San Antonio Spurs
Gone is Kawhi Leonard and replacing him is a perennial scorer in DeMar DeRozan who changes the focus of this team.
3. New Orleans Pelicans
Even without DeMarcus Cousins this team is capable of making a surprising run in the competitive Western Conference.
4. Memphis Grizzlies
Health is the biggest factor for them. Mainly with their point guard Mike Conley.
5. Dallas Mavericks
Getting Luka Doncic was exactly what this franchise needed. Continue reading
1. Washington Wizards
The window is starting to close, but with a healthy John Wall and Bradley Beal, they should remain contenders.
2. Miami Heat
They were sneaky good last year and could make a sizable jump in the East.
3. Charlotte Hornets
Without a true identity it could become an interesting year with Kemba Walker in a contract year.
4. Orlando Magic
Yet another coaching change has me wondering exactly what this franchise wants to do.
5. Atlanta Hawks
The rebuild is in full swing and they’re off to a good start with Trae Young. Continue reading
1. Milwaukee Bucks
Their superstar in ‘The Greek Freak’ could be primed for an MVP caliber year.
2. Indiana Pacers
They took Cleveland to the brink in the opening round last year and should be a major contender this year.
3. Detroit Pistons
With a different direction on the bench, they could be a surprise contender.
4. Cleveland Cavaliers
The second go-round without LeBron should be easier with a better roster than the first time.
5. Chicago Bulls
There’s plenty to build on, but it could be another long year in the Windy City. Continue reading
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