NBA Season Preview: A Look at the 2024-25 Standings

As the excitement builds for the upcoming NBA season, fans are eagerly anticipating which teams will reign supreme. With the league undergoing a period of significant change, this year's standings are expected to be more competitive than ever. In this article, we'll dive into the predicted team rankings for the 2024-25 season.

The Top Contenders

Last season saw several surprise teams rise to the top, and this year promises even more unpredictability. The Los Angeles Lakers, led by LeBron James, are expected to be a force to be reckoned with after a strong offseason.

The Boston Celtics, who finished as runners-up last season, will look to build upon their momentum and make a deep playoff run. Don't count out the Philadelphia 76ers either, who have made some savvy moves to bolster their roster.

The Middle of the Pack

A number of teams are poised to take that next step and become legitimate playoff contenders. The Denver Nuggets, with Nikola Jokić leading the way, should be a force to be reckoned with in the Western Conference.

In the East, teams like the Brooklyn Nets, who have added some key pieces via trade, and the Chicago Bulls, who are looking to build on their strong finish last season, could make some noise come playoff time.

The Bottom Feeders

Of course, not all teams will be vying for a championship. A few squads will be looking to rebuild and lay the groundwork for future success. The New York Knicks, who have struggled mightily in recent years, are expected to take a step back this season.

The Charlotte Hornets and Minnesota Timberwolves, both of whom have undergone significant roster changes, may need some time to gel and find their footing.

Predicted Standings

Here's how we see the 2024-25 NBA standings shaking out:

• Eastern Conference: 1. Boston Celtics, 2. Philadelphia 76ers, 3. Brooklyn Nets, 4. Chicago Bulls, 5. Toronto Raptors, 6. Miami Heat
• Western Conference: 1. Los Angeles Lakers, 2. Denver Nuggets, 3. Utah Jazz, 4. Golden State Warriors, 5. Dallas Mavericks, 6. Portland Trail Blazers

The Takeaway

This season's NBA standings are shaping up to be incredibly competitive, with a number of teams poised to make deep playoff runs. While there will undoubtedly be some surprises along the way, one thing is certain: the 2024-25 season is going to be an absolute blast to watch.