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Rockets

The NBA is not waiting for a transition. It is already happening.
For years, the league has been defined by icons like LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Kevin Durant. Their era shaped modern basketball and carried the sport into a new global space. But as time moves forward, another truth becomes clearer each season.
The next wave is not coming: It is already here. Some of the NBA&rsquo;s young stars and their ages are the following:
Cooper Flagg is 19. Kon Knueppel is 20. Victor Wembanyama is 22. Jalen Duren is 22. Alperen Sengun is 23. Paolo Banchero is 23. Cade Cunningham is 24. Anthony Edwards is 24. LaMelo Ball is 24. Jalen Johnson is 24. Tyrese Maxey is 25. Deni Avdija is 25. Tyrese Haliburton is 25. Luka Doncic is 26. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is 27. Jayson Tatum is 27. Jaylen Brown is 29. Donovan Mitchell is 29. Jalen Brunson is 29.
That list alone tells the story.
These are not prospects waiting for opportunity. They are All-Stars. Franchise cornerstones. Playoff performers. MVP candidates. Players that are already shaping postseason outcomes and redefining team ceilings.
Victor Wembanyama is already altering defensive schemes league-wide at 22. Luka Doncic has been an MVP-level engine for years and is still just 26. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has elevated himself into best player in the world talks. Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown have already led championship-level teams and are still in their twenties.
Anthony Edwards has embraced the spotlight and looks ready to carry the league&rsquo;s next era of superstar charisma. Tyrese Haliburton and Tyrese Maxey are redefining guard play with pace and efficiency. Paolo Banchero and Alperen Sengun are anchoring offenses through skill and versatility rather than traditional post play. Cade Cunningham is proving that control and poise can still dominate in a league obsessed with speed.
Even younger talents like Cooper Flagg and Kon Knueppel represent what is coming next. They are entering a league that already prioritizes skill, spacing, and positional fluidity. By the time they hit their primes, the foundation will already be set by the group just ahead of them.
What makes this era unique is its balance. There is no single prototype dominating the landscape. Some of these stars are 7-foot playmakers. Some are downhill scorers. Some are defensive anchors. Some are creative offensive orchestrators. The diversity of skill sets means the league is not shifting toward one dominant style, it is expanding.
Another important factor is global influence. Victor Wembanyama, Luka Doncic and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander represent international excellence at the highest level. The league is no longer centered in one region or identity. The game has evolved into a global ecosystem where elite talent emerges from everywhere.
As the previous generation begins to wind down, the league is searching for its next face. But then it has several candidates. It has multiple MVP-level players under 30. It has championship-proven stars still entering their prime years. It has young bigs redefining positional expectations. It has guards who control pace like veterans despite being in their mid-twenties.
The NBA is in great hands because it does not rely on one successor. It has a wave.
A wave of players who grew up watching LeBron and Curry and Durant. A wave that understands branding, skill development, and modern spacing. A wave that is comfortable with pressure and unafraid of expectations.
The transition will not feel abrupt because it is already unfolding in real time. These players are not waiting to inherit the league. They are actively taking ownership of it.
The next era is not years away, it is happening right now.

From Wemby and Luka to Ant and Tatum, the NBA’s next generation of stars is already here and ready to lead the league forward.

Ushering the new era: The next wave of NBA stars are here

The NBA has officially unveiled the full participant lists for the 2026 All-Star Weekend, giving fans a complete look at the stars headed to the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California, from Feb. 13-15. This year&rsquo;s festivities &ndash; highlighted by a unique USA vs. World round-robin All-Star Game format &ndash; will feature perennial All-Stars, breakout performers and standout event competitors in a celebration of the league&rsquo;s top talent.&nbsp;
Leading the headlines, Toronto Raptors forward Brandon Ingram has been named as a replacement for Golden State Warriors superstar Stephen Curry on the USA Stripes roster after Curry was ruled out due to a lingering right knee injury. The absence of the two-time All-Star Game MVP &ndash; who had been selected for his 12th All-Star appearance &ndash; opens the door for Ingram&rsquo;s second career selection, his first since 2020.&nbsp;
On the international side, Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun will take the place of Oklahoma City Thunder guard and reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander on Team World after Gilgeous-Alexander was sidelined with an abdominal injury. Sengun&rsquo;s addition marks his second consecutive All-Star nod and adds another high-octane playmaker to the World lineup.&nbsp;
Under this season&rsquo;s format, the All-Star Game breaks from the traditional East vs. West matchup and instead will feature three teams &ndash; two representing the United States and one made up of international talent &ndash; competing in a round-robin slate of four 12-minute games before the two best teams square off in a championship matchup.&nbsp;
The USA squads are anchored by the league&rsquo;s brightest names. Veterans such as LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Kawhi Leonard and Jaylen Brown headline the USA rosters alongside rising stars including Anthony Edwards, Cade Cunningham and Tyrese Maxey. Meanwhile, the World team showcases global stars like Luka Doncic, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Nikola Jokic and Victor Wembanyama &ndash; with Sengun now joining that group.&nbsp;
All-Star Saturday will also feature the State Farm Three-Point Contest, Slam Dunk Contest and additional skills competitions &ndash; giving a diverse cast of sharpshooters, high-flyers and playmakers multiple stages to shine before the main event kicks off.&nbsp;
This year&rsquo;s roster announcements arrive at a pivotal point in the NBA season. With teams locked in tight playoff races and narratives building around emerging stars, All-Star Weekend doubles as both a celebration and a barometer. For Ingram, logging All-Star minutes after stepping in for Curry could be a springboard into wider MVP conversations. And for Sengun, joining the World team again &ndash; especially in place of an MVP calibre guard &ndash; reinforces his rising status on the global stage.&nbsp;
Injuries to marquee players rarely dampen excitement in All-Star festivities, but they add an undercurrent of unpredictability &ndash; a reminder of how quickly fortunes can shift in a 2-plus-month sprint to the playoffs.
As rosters are finalized and events approach, All-Star Weekend promises to flare into one of the most compelling showcases of the season &ndash; both in terms of star power and emerging momentum headed into the home stretch.

This year’s festivities will feature perennial All-Stars, breakout performers and standout event competitors.

NBA sets complete 2026 All-Star Weekend roster; Ingram and Sengun named as replacements

The NBA is back, and on ring night, as confetti is prepared and banners await their ascension, the visiting Houston Rockets are walking into Paycom Center not merely as&nbsp; spectators watching the Oklahoma City Thunder raise their championship banner &ndash; but as worthy challengers.
This is no longer a young team simply hoping to develop. The Rockets are here with purpose, power, and one of the greatest scorers of all time leading the charge: Kevin Durant.
When Durant landed in Houston after that stunning trade this summer, it shifted the entire balance of the Western Conference. The message was clear: the Rockets are done waiting for their future. They want to win now, and their time is now.
For years, the Rockets have been stockpiling talent, banking on potential, and emphasizing growth. But after back-to-back seasons of competitiveness under Ime Udoka, the organization decided to accelerate. Durant&rsquo;s arrival changes everything &ndash; from the way Houston runs its offense to the expectations that now hang over the franchise.
Even without Fred VanVleet, who is sidelined with an injury, Houston remains loaded. Instead of patching the gap with another veteran guard, Udoka is doubling down on his young core &ndash; placing immense responsibility on Amen Thompson and Alperen Sengun.
The Amen Thompson and Alperen Sengun leap
Thompson, now entering his second season, will assume full-time point guard duties. It&rsquo;s a massive leap, but one Udoka and the front office have prepared him for. His athleticism, defensive instincts, and improving court vision make him the natural conductor of this evolving Rockets offense.
If Thompson is the engine, Alperen Sengun is the hub.
Fresh off a spectacular EuroBasket run where he dominated as Turkey&rsquo;s focal point, Sengun looks ready to translate that same control to the NBA stage. His ability to read defenses, pass from both the low and high post, and score efficiently makes him the centerpiece of Udoka&rsquo;s halfcourt schemes.
Much like Nikola Jokic in Denver, everything flows through him. The Rockets are embracing a more fluid, motion-based offense that allows Şeng&uuml;n to survey the floor, dictate movement, and create opportunities for Thompson, Durant, and Jabari Smith Jr.
In essence, Sengun has gone from being an intriguing young big to becoming Houston&rsquo;s offensive cornerstone.
And when paired with Durant &ndash; arguably the most adaptable superstar in basketball &ndash; the synergy could be special. Durant can play off-ball, spot up from midrange, or stretch defenses beyond the arc, allowing Sengun to orchestrate from the elbow area. When defenses collapse on Sengun, Durant punishes them. And if they crowd Durant, Sengun goes to work inside. It&rsquo;s a simple offense but one that is highly efficient and sustainable
Durant&rsquo;s impact: leadership and legacy
For Durant, Houston represents one more opportunity to define his legacy on his own terms.
He&rsquo;s joined superteams before, carried heavy expectations before, and heard the narratives that follow him. At 37, Durant is still elite, still driven, and now in a situation where his influence extends beyond scoring.
In Houston&rsquo;s locker room, he&rsquo;s the standard. His work ethic and professionalism have already rubbed off on the young core. Players like Thompson and Smith Jr. speak openly about the lessons they&rsquo;re learning from him &ndash; how to prepare, how to maintain focus, how to pick your spots on the floor. This team is talented, but Durant&rsquo;s presence gives them identity.
One of the biggest lineups ever assembled, and Reed Sheppard&rsquo;s moment
What&rsquo;s also fascinating about this Rockets team is how physically imposing they&rsquo;ve become. Udoka hinted during media day that Houston might deploy &ldquo;one of the biggest lineups in league history.&rdquo;
He wasn&rsquo;t exaggerating.
Houston has eight players with wingspans over seven feet, including Durant, Smith Jr., Sengun, Thompson, Steven Adams, Tari Eason, Tari Eason, and Josh Okogie.
Against the Thunder, the Rockets are expected to start Amen Thompson, Kevin Durant, Jabari Smith Jr., Alperen Sengun, and Steven Adams &ndash; a massive group that blends size, versatility, and rim protection.
This lineup has the potential to suffocate teams defensively while overwhelming them on the boards. Amen can switch across multiple positions, Sengun and Adams anchor the paint, Smith Jr.&rsquo;s improved awareness allows Houston to maintain spacing even with a traditional center on the floor, and Durant is a sneaky good weakside rim protector.
With VanVleet out, rookie guard Reed Sheppard is set to play a more significant role than expected. Known for his high IQ and fearless shooting, Sheppard could provide the spacing and composure Houston needs from the second unit. In a team filled with stars and length, Sheppard&rsquo;s ability to shoot, defend, and make quick reads could make him the quiet X-factor early in the season.
<h3>&ndash; &ndash; &ndash;</h3>
All eyes will be on Oklahoma City on opening night. The Thunder will celebrate their first championship in franchise history. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and the squad will receive their championship rings, sending the crowd in euphoria.
But on the other side, the Rockets are coming to send a message.
They&rsquo;re not intimidated by the defending champions &ndash;&nbsp; they&rsquo;re motivated by them. Houston&rsquo;s front office watched OKC&rsquo;s rise closely: a young, homegrown team built around patience, culture, and development. Now, the Rockets believe they can write their own version of that story, except this time, with the added edge of experience and star power.
If there&rsquo;s ever a statement game to open a season, this is it.
Durant, returning to Oklahoma City where his career began, faces his former team in the most poetic of circumstances &ndash; ring night for the franchise he once led, but with him now wearing Rockets red. It&rsquo;s drama, nostalgia, and rivalry all wrapped into one.
For Houston, it&rsquo;s not just about spoiling a ceremony. It&rsquo;s about announcing themselves as legitimate title contenders. They&rsquo;ve gone all-in on the belief that their young core is ready and that Durant can still be the centerpiece of a championship run. For Ime Udoka, the challenge will be blending experience and youth, ego and development, discipline and creativity.
If it all clicks, Houston could find itself right in the thick of the title race. For a franchise that has waited years for relevance, that has rebuilt patiently and endured countless growing pains, this season is the start of something new.
And it begins under the bright lights in Oklahoma City, where the Rockets will take the floor not as dreamers, but as believers.

With Kevin Durant joining the Houston Rockets, their title expectations have never been higher: the Rockets are going all-in.

Rockets come in season with championship expectations with Kevin Durant

EuroBasket 2025 delivered another showcase of international basketball at the highest level. With elite NBA talent leading their countries and rising stars making names for themselves, the tournament gave fans plenty to chew on heading into the upcoming NBA season.
From Dennis Schroder&rsquo;s historic run with Germany to Alperen Sengun&rsquo;s continued development, several storylines stood out that could shape both international basketball and the league itself.
Here are the biggest takeaways from EuroBasket 2025:
<h3>Dennis Schroder&rsquo;s Basketball Hall of Fame legacy case</h3>
Dennis Schroder may not always be mentioned among NBA stars, but in the international game, his resume is undeniable. After leading Germany to the FIBA World Cup title and winning the tournament MVP in 2023, Schroder added another jewel to his crown by winning EuroBasket 2025 MVP and carrying Germany to the top once again.
Schroder has become the face of German basketball alongside star forward Franz Wagner, pushing the program to unprecedented heights. When people discuss European powers, France and Spain usually dominate the conversation. Yet Germany now stands on its own, fueled by Schroder&rsquo;s relentless playmaking, clutch shot-making, and leadership. With a World Cup MVP and EuroBasket MVP on his resume, along with nearly a decade of steady NBA production, his case for the Basketball Hall of Fame is gaining traction.
<h3>Germany basketball at an all-time high</h3>
Germany&rsquo;s rise is more than just Schroder. This is a golden era for German basketball, with Franz Wagner, Isaac Bonga, and Daniel Theis playing key roles around their floor general. For years, the country was in the shadow of Dirk Nowitzki&rsquo;s greatness &ndash; and the question was whether Germany would ever have another era of prominence.
That question has been answered emphatically. Germany is now a top-tier international contender and has firmly cemented itself among the best programs in Europe aside from France. With the mix of veteran leadership and young stars, they are just starting to realize their prime potential.
<h3>Alperen Sengun&rsquo;s leap is no fluke</h3>
One of the most exciting developments at EuroBasket was Alperen Sengun&rsquo;s dominance for his country, Turkey. The 22-year-old center showcased a more polished offensive game, combining his already elite passing with improved scoring touch and confidence. His performances were not only encouraging for Turkey&rsquo;s future but also a preview of what could be a breakout NBA season with the Houston Rockets.
Sengun has steadily improved each year in the league, but EuroBasket offered a glimpse of a player who could make the leap to another level next season. Surrounded by newly acquired Kevin Durant, Houston&rsquo;s core and bolstered by international experience, Sengun is positioned to anchor the Rockets&rsquo; rise in the West. EuroBasket confirmed that his skillset isn&rsquo;t just flashy &ndash; it&rsquo;s sustainable at the highest levels of competition.
<h3>Lauri Markkanen shines for Finland &ndash; but what about Utah?</h3>
For the second straight international tournament, Lauri Markkanen looked like an absolute star. Finland made their deepest run ever &ndash; finishing 4th &ndash; and Markkanen&rsquo;s scoring, rebounding, and leadership were undeniable. He has blossomed into a true centerpiece on the world stage, a player who can carry a team offensively and give them a fighting chance against elite competition.
The irony, however, is that his NBA team, the Utah Jazz, has been in rebuilding mode. While Markkanen puts up All-Star numbers and shows he&rsquo;s capable of being a star on a playoff team, Utah appears to remain focused on the long game. The question now looms: how long can Markkanen stay patient? His EuroBasket dominance only reinforces that he may be better suited on a contending team where his talent could shine under brighter lights.
<h3>Giannis carries Greece to the bronze</h3>
If there was any doubt about Giannis Antetokounmpo&rsquo;s ability to elevate his national team, EuroBasket 2025 erased it. The two-time NBA MVP carried Greece to a bronze medal, delivering monster stat lines and putting the team on his back night after night. His dominance was a reminder of his ability to impose his will no matter the setting, regardless of the supporting cast around him.
For the Milwaukee Bucks, this is an encouraging sign. After another disappointing playoff exit in the NBA, Giannis&rsquo; hunger and determination were on full display. His international performance could very well foreshadow a massive season in Milwaukee, as the superstar looks to reclaim championship glory.
<h3>Slim Luka and Locked-In Jokic</h3>
Two of the NBA&rsquo;s brightest stars also made headlines in EuroBasket: Luka Doncic and Nikola Jokic. Luka arrived in noticeably better shape, showcasing improved conditioning that allowed him to Doncic his brilliance deeper into games. Slovenia may not have gone all the way, but Doncic&rsquo;s playmaking and scoring kept them competitive throughout the tournament. A slimmer, sharper Luka spells trouble for the NBA, where conditioning has sometimes been his biggest critique.
Meanwhile, Nikola Jokic looked every bit the &ldquo;Batman&rdquo; of international basketball. The reigning NBA Finals MVP returned to Serbia&rsquo;s lineup and dominated, reminding everyone why he&rsquo;s widely considered the best player in the world. Jokic&rsquo;s effortless blend of scoring, passing, and rebounding carried over seamlessly, and Serbia looked formidable with him at the helm. Both players appear primed for another First Team All-NBA campaign.
<h3>The bigger picture</h3>
EuroBasket 2025 was a reminder of how international basketball continues to shape the NBA. Players like Schroder and Giannis showcased their ability to elevate entire nations, while rising stars like Sengun and Markkanen flashed the type of potential that can alter their NBA franchises&rsquo; trajectories. At the same time, household names like Luka and Jokic sharpened their tools ahead of another grueling NBA season.
As the league gears up for the 2025-26 campaign, these performances provide early hints at who could dominate in the months ahead. From Germany&rsquo;s rise to Giannis&rsquo; hunger and Sengun&rsquo;s growth, EuroBasket offered more than just a summer tournament &ndash; it was a preview of storylines that will define the NBA season.

EuroBasket 2025 takeaways: Schröder’s MVP legacy, Sengun’s rise, Giannis’ bronze, Markkanen’s dilemma, and Luka & Jokic ready.

EuroBasket takeaways: Legacies cemented and the next chapter for NBA stars

Germany has claimed the EuroBasket 2025 crown, defeating Turkey 88-83 in a pulsating final to win the championship for the first time since 1993. Germany&rsquo;s victory caps off a perfect 9-0 run through the tournament, showcasing their dominance and chemistry.&nbsp;
The final was tightly contested from tip-off to the closing seconds. Turkey came out strong and led by six at halftime, riding the performances of Alperen Sengun and Cedi Osman.
Germany responded in the third quarter, stringing together runs and tightening up defensively. Isaac Bonga made several key plays in the fourth quarter, including a huge offensive rebound when Turkey seemed ready to pull away.&nbsp;
With under 20 seconds left, point guard Dennis Schroder drained a pull-up jumper, giving Germany a narrow lead. Schroder nailed two baskets in the clutch, highlighting his leadership and importance to the team. Turkey had a chance to reply, but Sengun&rsquo;s three-pointer in the final possession rimmed out. Germany then sealed the win with Schroder yet again, sinking two clutch free throws.
Schroder was named tournament MVP and was named to the all-star five &ndash; and with good reason &ndash; as he stepped up when it mattered most, especially in those final moments.&nbsp;
Sengun once again proved why he is among the best international bigs right now, filling the stat sheet and keeping Turkey in the game until the last few possessions.&nbsp;
Isaac Bonga was a difference-maker down the stretch for Germany, including hustle plays and defense, especially during Turkey&rsquo;s runs, while Franz Wagner did his usual scoring routine for Germany as he did all tournament long to earn his spot in the all-star five.
For Germany, this win is monumental. It&rsquo;s their second EuroBasket title ever and their first in 32 years. They now hold both the FIBA World Cup (2023) and EuroBasket as champion.
Turkey gets the silver, their first finals appearance since 2001. Though they came up short, their run &ndash; powered by Şeng&uuml;n&rsquo;s excellence &ndash; it boosts their status in European basketball as one of the perennial contenders for years to come.

Germany has claimed the EuroBasket 2025 crown, defeating Turkey 88-83 in a pulsating final to win the championship.

FIBA: Germany outlasts Turkey to win EuroBasket 2025 Final

Germany and Turkey will face off for the EuroBasket 2025 title after both nations continued their perfect runs, defeating Finland and Greece respectively in the semifinals in Riga.
Each team will enter the final with an 8-0 record, promising a high-stakes clash Sunday for continental supremacy. Germany seeks its second EuroBasket gold (first since 1993), while Turkey returns to the final for the first time since 2001. Meanwhile, Finland and Greece drop to the bronze-medal game, each chasing redemption.
🇩🇪 Germany outclasses Finland in tactical showdown
Germany flexed its championship form in a 98-86 semifinal win over a gutsy Finland squad. Point guard Dennis Schr&ouml;der was the linchpin, pouring in 26 points along with 12 assists, controlling tempo and creating mismatches. Franz Wagner added 22 points, many in the first half, helping Germany build a commanding lead before surviving Finland&rsquo;s late surge.&nbsp;
On the defensive end, Germany largely neutralized Lauri Markkanen, holding him to 16 points on poor shooting and limiting Finland&rsquo;s outside threat. This win not only snaps Finland&rsquo;s Cinderella streak but also confirms Germany&rsquo;s first EuroBasket final appearance in 20 years.
🇹🇷 Turkey Thrashes Greece Behind Osmani and Sengun
In the other semifinal, Turkey delivered a decisive 94-68 defeat of Greece, denying them a chance at a long-awaited return to the final. Ercan Osmani stole the show with 28 points on 11-of-15 shooting, including six triples, while Alperen Sengun posted a double-double (15 points, 12 rebounds, 6 assists).&nbsp;
Turkey established control early &ndash; building a sizable halftime lead &ndash; and never looked back. Key to the win was limiting Giannis Antetokounmpo, who scored just 12 points and couldn&rsquo;t lift Greece&rsquo;s offensive rhythm. This triumph marks Turkey&rsquo;s first EuroBasket final since their silver medal run in 2001.

Germany and Turkey will face off for the EuroBasket 2025 title after both nations continued their perfect runs.

Undefeated Germany, Turkey set up EuroBasket 2025 Final after semifinal wins

In high drama over the quarterfinals in Riga, Turkey and Greece carved their paths to the EuroBasket 2025 semifinals, powered by superstar performances from Alperen Şeng&uuml;n and Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Alperen Şeng&uuml;n Lifts Turkey with Triple-Double Brilliance
The 23-year-old Turkish center recorded a historic triple-double of 19 points, 12 rebounds, and 10 assists, steering Turkey to a commanding 91&ndash;77 win over Poland. Şeng&uuml;n&rsquo;s brilliance ignited a second-half surge, helping Turkey extend their lead and seal their place in the final four &ndash; just the second time in the country's history to reach the semifinals since 2001.
Giannis Powers Greece with Clutch Heroics
Meanwhile, Giannis Antetokounmpo put on a masterclass, dropping 29 points while showcasing dominance on both ends of the floor. His clutch free throws in the final minute preserved Greece&rsquo;s lead and led them to an 87&ndash;76 victory over Lithuania, marking Greece&rsquo;s first semifinal appearance since 2009.
A semifinal for the ages
Now set for a tormented showdown, Turkey vs. Greece promises to be a heavyweight semifinal clash featuring Şeng&uuml;n&rsquo;s creativity and Giannis&rsquo; dominance. The clash pits two of the tournament&rsquo;s most electrifying talents in a high-stakes battle that could define legacy and bragging rights for both of their nations&rsquo; EuroBasket dreams.

In high drama over the quarterfinals in Riga, Turkey and Greece carved their paths to the EuroBasket 2025 semifinals.

EuroBasket 2025: Turkey, Greece grab semis slots behind Sengun and Antetokounmpo

The knockout round drama begins in FIBA play as the 2025 EuroBasket round of 16 bracket is officially locked in after 8 days of group phase competition across 4 cities. Now, the action shifts to the 16 national teams that qualified and they will hit the court in single-elimination action, with the winners edging closer to continental glory.
All the matches of Round of 16 onwards to the quarterfinals, semifinals, 3rd place game, and Final will be in Riga, Latvia.
NBA superstars Nikola Jokic, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Luka Doncic have all led their teams to the next round, as Serbia, Greece, and Slovenia enter the next phase as teams to look out for.
The 2025 EuroBasket Round of 16 matchups are as follows:
Turkey vs Sweden &mdash; Group A&rsquo;s top team faces a fourth-seed survivor vs Sweden
Germany vs Portugal &mdash; A dominant German team seeks to continue its flawless run against Portugal
Lithuania vs Latvia &mdash; A classic Baltic derby loaded with history and passion
Serbia vs Finland &mdash; Lauri Markkanen and the Scandinavian upstarts meet perennial powerhouse Serbia with the best player in the world, Nikola Jokic
Poland vs Bosnia &amp; Herzegovina &mdash; A grudge match with playoff stakes
France vs Georgia &mdash; Can France flex its group dominance against the gritty Georgians?
Italy vs Slovenia &mdash; Luka-led Slovenia meets a confident, balanced Italian squad in one of the weekend&rsquo;s marquee seesaws
Greece vs Israel &mdash; Giannis&rsquo; Greece must quiet Deni Avdija&rsquo;s scoring burst in what could be a classic narrative showdown
Among the key storylines of the tournament thus far, include:
-Turkey topped Group A (after beating Serbia) with a perfect 5&ndash;0 record; Germany did the same in Group B.&nbsp;
-Greece led Group C followed by Italy, Bosnia &amp; Herzegovina, and Georgia &ndash; with Spain, the defending champion, shocking many by missing the cut.
-Group D survivors include France, Poland, Slovenia, and Israel.
-Rivalries renewed: The Baltic battle of Lithuania vs Latvia sets the tone for regional pride &ndash; always a high-stakes matchup.
-Blockbuster clash: Italy vs Slovenia stands out &ndash; not just for the presence of Luka Doncic, but for the contrasting styles of play for both teams.
-Star spotlight: Greek dominance led by Giannis Antetokounmpo faces a disrupted but resilient Israel, fresh off a gritty loss against Luka and Slovenia despite a 34-point outing from Deni Avdija.&nbsp;
-Trending teams: Finland, led by Lauri Markkanen&rsquo;s MVP-caliber play, enters as a serious threat and a potential dark horse in Serbia vs Finland, while Alperen Sengun of Turkey continues to amaze by leading his team to an undefeated run so far in the tournament.

The knockout round drama begins in FIBA play as the 2025 EuroBasket round of 16 bracket is officially locked in.

FIBA: EuroBasket Round of 16 set; Jokic, Giannis, Doncic advance

As EuroBasket 2025 continues to unfold, the tournament is becoming a showcase of NBA pedigree in full force. Nikola Jokic, Luka Doncic, and Giannis Antetokounmpo are delivering superstar performances for Serbia, Slovenia, and Greece, while Alperen Sengun, Lauri Markkanen, and Germany&rsquo;s duo of Dennis Schroder and Franz Wagner are emerging as breakout contributors in their own right.
Jokic &mdash; Serbia&rsquo;s All-Around Titan
On a mission to add EuroBasket gold to his illustrious resume, three-time NBA MVP Nikola Jokic has been nothing short of dominant. In Serbia&rsquo;s latest group-stage clash against Latvia, he poured in a career-best 39 points, grabbed 10 rebounds, and tallied four assists &ndash; all while shooting a perfect free-throw performance and steering his country into the knockout phase with a 3&ndash;0 record.
With that feat, Jokic surpassed his previous personal best for Serbia at EuroBasket and now stands as the all-time Serbian scoring leader in tournament history. His consistent double-doubles &ndash; like 23 points and 19 rebounds against Portugal &ndash; underscore the blend of scoring, playmaking, and interior dominance that continue to separate him from the rest.
Doncic &mdash; Slovenia&rsquo;s High-Octane Maestro
Luka Doncic, known for theatrical individual brilliance, continues that trend in Poland. His historic 26-point, 10-rebound, 11-assist effort in a 17-point win over Belgium illustrated his ability to carry an entire country&rsquo;s offense despite roster limitations.
Earlier in the tournament, against Poland, Doncic posted a historic stat line of 34 points and 9 assists with 5 steals &ndash; a performance unmatched in EuroBasket history. Though Slovenia&rsquo;s group-stage position remains precarious, Doncic&rsquo;s heroics have not only kept them competitive but captivated fans worldwide.
Antetokounmpo &mdash; Greece&rsquo;s Freak of Nature
Giannis Antetokounmpo has conducted a masterclass in efficiency and power. In a crushing 94&ndash;53 victory over Georgia, he delivered 27 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists, and 2 steals in just 25 minutes &ndash; setting the tone early with relentless physicality and defensive pressure.
Already a tournament favorite, Giannis&rsquo;s presence makes Greece a legitimate medal threat, blending offensive ferocity with lockdown defense in ways only he can.
Emerging Stars &mdash; Markkanen, Sengun, Schroder &amp; Wagner
The NBA spotlight extends beyond to the younger stars, such as:
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Lauri Markkanen (Finland) continues to live up to &ndash; and perhaps exceed &ndash; his high expectations. He dropped 43 points in just 23 minutes against Great Britain, following up with averages of 32.3 points, 7 rebounds, and 3 steals, while posting a scorching 71% true shooting percentage through Finland's first three games.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Alperen Sengun (Turkey) has been like Jokic as an all-around wrecking ball for Turkey, and experts already regard Turkey as a dangerous group-stage rival largely thanks to his versatility and all-court prowess.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Germany enters the EuroBasket as one of the tournament favorites armed with veteran savvy and youthful skill. Led by Dennis Schroder alongside emerging talent Franz Wagner, Germany is aiming to win the regional meet especially after their World Cup triumph last 2023.</li>
</ul>
EuroBasket 2025 is affirming its role as not just a continental championship &ndash; but a global stage where basketball&rsquo;s biggest names meet national pride. Jokic is rewriting Serbian tournament lore with efficiency and versatility. Doncic remains an offensive force capable of nearly single-handedly carrying his team. Giannis, true to form, dominates physically and defensively. Meanwhile, Markkanen&rsquo;s scoring torridness, Sengun&rsquo;s rising versatility, and Germany&rsquo;s balanced duo present compelling storylines that could influence this tournament&rsquo;s elite trajectory.

As EuroBasket 2025 continues to unfold, the tournament is becoming a showcase of NBA pedigree in full force.

Jokic, Doncic, Antetokounmpo show out in EuroBasket

The stage is set for one of international basketball&rsquo;s premier events. The 2025 FIBA EuroBasket tips off today, and a long list of NBA players will be trading their club jerseys for their national colors for this summer.
This year&rsquo;s competition features a loaded field of European stars, including MVPs, All-Stars, and young prospects eager to prove themselves on the continental stage. From Nikola Jokic anchoring Serbia to Giannis Antetokounmpo powering Greece and Luka Doncic leading Slovenia, some of the NBA&rsquo;s brightest names will headline what promises to be a thrilling tournament.
Here&rsquo;s a breakdown of the NBA talent set to suit up for EuroBasket 2025, followed by a guide on everything you need to know about the competition.
<h2>NBA players on EuroBasket rosters</h2>
Czechia &ndash; Vit Krejci (Hawks) Krejci gives Czechia size and versatility in the backcourt and frontcourt positions. While not a high-usage player in the NBA, he&rsquo;s expected to play a larger role as a two-way player for his national team.
Latvia &ndash; Kristaps Porzingis (Hawks) Porzingis remains the cornerstone for Latvia. His ability to stretch the floor as a big man will be critical in a team that thrives on perimeter shooting.
Portugal &ndash; Neemias Queta (Celtics) Queta will carry the banner for Portugal as their first true NBA-level player. His rim protection and rebounding presence as well as his inside scoring make him central to Portugal&rsquo;s chances of competing in a tough field.
Serbia &ndash; Nikola Jokic (Nuggets), Bogdan Bogdanovic (Clippers), Nikola Jovic (Heat), Tristan Vukcevic (Wizards) Serbia looks like a powerhouse. Jokic, the reigning NBA MVP, is the ultimate centerpiece who can dominate games with scoring, passing, and rebounding. Bogdanovic adds elite shooting and experience, while Jovic and Vukcevic provide youth and depth to keep Serbia dangerous across all positions.
Turkey &ndash; Alperen Sengun (Rockets), Adem Bona (76ers) Sengun, one of the NBA&rsquo;s brightest young centers, will be Turkey&rsquo;s go-to option on offense. Bona, fresh off his rookie NBA campaign, brings athleticism and defensive intensity in the paint.
Finland &ndash; Lauri Markkanen (Jazz) Markkanen is Finland&rsquo;s unquestioned leader and most reliable scorer. After an All-Star leap in the NBA, he&rsquo;ll be expected to carry the Finnish offense against the continent&rsquo;s top teams.
Germany &ndash; Dennis Schroder (Kings), Franz Wagner (Magic), Tristan da Silva (Magic) The reigning World Cup champions return with Schroder orchestrating the offense and Wagner providing wing scoring and star power. Da Silva, fresh from his rookie year, adds another versatile forward to the mix for Germany.
Lithuania &ndash; Jonas Valanciunas (Nuggets) Valanciunas anchors Lithuania&rsquo;s traditional inside-out game. His physicality and rebounding remain vital, particularly against Europe&rsquo;s other elite big men.
Montenegro &ndash; Nikola Vucevic (Bulls) Vucevic is Montenegro&rsquo;s main offensive hub. His inside-out skill set gives them a consistent scoring option in a balanced lineup.
Sweden &ndash; Pelle Larsson (Heat) Larsson, fresh off his rookie season in the NBA, offers Sweden perimeter shooting and length on the wing. He&rsquo;ll have to play above his experience level to make a real impact.
Bosnia and Herzegovina &ndash; Jusuf Nurkic (Jazz) Nurkic provides size, toughness, and leadership. His interior presence will be Bosnia&rsquo;s best weapon against stronger rosters.
Georgia &ndash; Goga Bitadze (Magic), Sandro Mamukelashvili (Raptors) Georgia has two NBA frontcourt players in Bitadze and Mamukelashvili. Both bring size, energy, and interior defense, giving Georgia a physical edge.
Greece &ndash; Giannis Antetokounmpo (Bucks) The two-time NBA MVP returns as Greece&rsquo;s undisputed leader. Giannis&rsquo; all-around dominance makes Greece a perennial threat when he&rsquo;s on the floor.
Italy &ndash; Simone Fontecchio (Heat) Fontecchio, a reliable floor spacer and shooter, will take on a heavy scoring load for Italy.
Spain &ndash; Santi Aldama (Grizzlies) Aldama&rsquo;s versatility fits perfectly into Spain&rsquo;s balanced style of play. He can stretch defenses with his shooting while also rebounding effectively.
France &ndash; Guerschon Yabusele (Knicks), Bilal Coulibaly (Wizards), Zaccharie Risacher (Hawks), Alex Sarr (Wizards) France boasts one of the deepest NBA contingents. Yabusele provides veteran stability, while Coulibaly, Risacher, and Sarr bring an injection of youth and athleticism. This blend of talent makes France a legitimate title contender.
Israel &ndash; Deni Avdija (Blazers) Avdija has steadily improved as a two-way forward in the NBA, and he&rsquo;ll now be Israel&rsquo;s top playmaker and scorer.
Slovenia &ndash; Luka Doncic (Lakers) Doncic headlines Slovenia as one of the most electrifying players in the world. He&rsquo;s capable of single-handedly carrying his country deep into the tournament, just as he has in previous years.
These eighteen NBA franchises will see their players in action. The Atlanta Hawks, Miami Heat, Orlando Magic, and Washington Wizards lead the way with three representatives each. The Nuggets, Jazz, and the Wizards have multiple players in the field, while even smaller-market teams like the Raptors and Trail Blazers will be represented.
<h2>Everything you need to know about EuroBasket 2025</h2>
The 2025 FIBA EuroBasket will feature 24 teams split into four groups of six. Each group will play a single round-robin, with the top four teams advancing to the knockout stages.
The knockout phase includes the Round of 16, Quarterfinals, Semifinals, a Third-Place Game, and the Final, ensuring plenty of high-stakes basketball.
Beyond continental bragging rights, EuroBasket also serves as a crucial stepping stone toward the 2027 FIBA World Cup, the 2028 Olympics and global rankings. The competition has long been a proving ground where NBA players elevate their national teams while rising European prospects showcase their skills on a world stage.
With superstars like Jokic, Giannis, and Doncic leading the way, and promising youngsters like Risacher, Sarr, and Jovic making their mark, EuroBasket 2025 has the talent and storylines to deliver one of the most memorable editions in recent history.

The stage is set for one of international basketball’s premier events. The 2025 FIBA EuroBasket tips off today

NBA players set for action at 2025 FIBA EuroBasket

The Houston Rockets have formally extended head coach Ime Udoka to a multi-year deal, making him one of the highest-paid coaches in the NBA, according to ESPN&rsquo;s Shams Charania.
Initially set under contract through 2026&ndash;27, the new extension reflects owner Tilman Fertitta and GM Rafael Stone&rsquo;s commitment to Udoka&rsquo;s leadership following consecutive seasons of marked progress.&nbsp;
Udoka, the former Celtics coach turned Spurs assistant, guided Houston to a franchise-best 52‑30 record this past season, earning them the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference and a first‑round playoff appearance &ndash; their best performance since 2018&ndash;19.&nbsp;
Alongside his impressive turnaround, Houston ranked fifth in defensive efficiency, with rookie Amen Thompson making All‑Defense and All-Star center Alperen Sengun blossoming under his system. According to Charania, the deal places Udoka among the NBA's top‑paid coaches, with "an eight‑figure annual" salary making him one of the league's richest at his position.
The extension arrives as Houston fends off interest from other teams, including the New York Knicks, who were denied permission to interview Udoka following their coaching vacancy. The Rockets have prioritized staff continuity, recently securing veteran center Steven Adams on a three‑year extension and weighing future options for Fred VanVleet amid potential Kevin Durant trade chatter.
Over two seasons, Udoka has led Houston to a combined 93‑71 record &ndash; an impressive leap from the 59 wins posted in the three years prior to his hire. His defensive mindset and emphasis on discipline transformed the young core into a playoff contender and earned him finalist consideration for the NBA Coach of the Year Award.
ANALYSIS: Ime Udoka&rsquo;s extension underscores Houston&rsquo;s belief in his vision to transform the Rockets into a modern contender. As the franchise eyes further growth, his leadership remains central to their blueprint for success.
The extension is Houston&rsquo;s second major offseason move, following the re-signing of Steven Adams and preceding key decisions on cap space and possible trades targeting major stars.

The Houston Rockets have formally extended head coach Ime Udoka to a multi-year deal, making him one of the highest-paid coaches.

Ime Udoka Nets Multi-Year Extension as Rockets’ Architect of Success

As the Phoenix Suns prepare to part ways with Kevin Durant, trade discussions have intensified, centering on three frontrunner destinations: the Miami Heat, San Antonio Spurs, and Houston Rockets, according to ESPN&rsquo;s Shams Charania.
These teams are reportedly Durant&rsquo;s preferred landing spots, with mutual interest and the potential for a lucrative extension in play. Sources close to the situation revealed to Charania that Heat, Spurs, and Rockets have all gained significant traction in negotiations and are considered finalists in the pursuit of the 15-time All-Star.
ANALYSIS: Durant lists Miami as a desirable destination, citing the franchise's culture and strong front office support. The Heat reportedly attempted to acquire him at the trade deadline. While they may lack in draft assets, veteran players like Andrew Wiggins, Kel&rsquo;el Ware, and Duncan Robinson could be key parts of a package.
San Antonio presents an alluring mix: pairing Durant with phenom Victor Wembanyama and rising star De&rsquo;Aaron Fox. With significant draft capital &ndash; including the Nos. 2 and 14 picks &ndash; the Spurs are well-positioned to make a big move. However, they face a dilemma: part with core young assets or risk falling short in rebuilding momentum.
The Rockets are another strong candidate. Durant has personal connections in Houston through assistant coach Royal Ivey and head coach Ime Udoka. The Rockets&rsquo; young core &ndash; Alperen Sengun, Amen Thompson, Jalen Green &ndash; is a plus, though matching Phoenix&rsquo;s demands may necessitate including top talent like Green or Jabari Smith Jr.
Despite Durant's preferences, the Suns maintain they will seek the most valuable return, regardless of destination. With Durant entering the final year of a $54.7 million contract and eligible for a two-year, $122&ndash;124 million extension post-trade, leverage remains high. Six to eight teams are reportedly in serious discussions, including the Minnesota Timberwolves.&nbsp;
The window for a deal is narrowing, with reports suggesting a potential trade could emerge within days or centered around the upcoming NBA Draft. While Spurs appear to be premier contenders according to early betting odds, the situation remains highly fluid and driven by asset valuation.&nbsp;
Kevin Durant&rsquo;s next chapter is poised to unfold soon. Miami offers playoff pedigree and culture; San Antonio brings youth and assets; Houston provides chemistry and continuity. Ultimately, the Suns&rsquo; focus on value, aligned with Durant&rsquo;s willingness to commit, sets up a dramatic trade saga that will soon come to a result over the next few days.

The Spurs, Rockets, and Heat are the frontrunners to land Suns superstar forward Kevin Durant, according to Shams Charania.

Heat, Spurs & Rockets emerge as top contenders as Kevin Durant trade talks heat up

As the 2025 NBA Playoffs begin, the Western Conference presents no shortage of compelling narratives and unanswered questions. Each team comes in with a storyline that could define their entire postseason. From young squads making their playoff debut to experienced rosters led by superstars, here's the biggest question facing each Western Conference playoff team.
Oklahoma City Thunder &mdash; Can their historic defense carry over to the playoffs?
The Oklahoma City Thunder have fielded the league&rsquo;s best defense this season, boasting a 106.6 defensive rating &mdash; the lowest mark in the NBA and one of the best over the past decade. Anchored by a core of versatile perimeter defenders like Lu Dort, Cason Wallace, Jalen Williams, and MVP candidate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, along with interior enforcer Isaiah Hartenstein and shot blocker Chet Holmgren, the Thunder built a defensive identity predicated on length, switchability, and relentless pressure.
But as history has shown, regular-season defense doesn&rsquo;t always translate to playoff dominance. Matchups become more intentional, rotations tighten, and elite scorers are given room to manipulate even the best schemes. For a team like OKC that leans heavily on team defense rather than individual stoppers, their system will be tested in a postseason series where adjustments are key. Moreover, the Thunder&rsquo;s youth &ndash; despite being a strength in the regular season &ndash; may also be a vulnerability when the game slows down and every possession is magnified.
This Thunder squad has the makings of a historically great defense, but now comes the true test: whether that same system can hold up when a superstar like Luka Doncic or Steph Curry start hunting matchups in isolation. If OKC can sustain their defensive intensity in a seven-game series, their path to a deep run remains wide open.
Houston Rockets &mdash; Will their inexperience hinder them from going too far?
After years of rebuilding, the Houston Rockets are finally back in the playoffs &mdash; and this time, with a young core brimming with talent. Alperen Sengun, Jalen Green, Jabari Smith Jr., and Amen Thompson are all making their playoff debuts, and they&rsquo;ve formed a competitive group that finished with the fifth-best defense in the league (110.3 DRtg) and earned the second seed. Their turnaround under head coach Ime Udoka has been remarkable, fueled by a defense-first identity and the emergence of Sengun as one of the best passing bigs in the league.
However, playoff basketball is a different beast. It&rsquo;s about adjustments, discipline, and poise under pressure &ndash; things young teams usually need time to learn. In their first-round matchup, the Rockets face the battle-tested Golden State Warriors, a team that features championship experience across the board. Houston&rsquo;s youth could be exposed if the moment becomes too big, especially with Golden State&rsquo;s ability to dissect inexperience through smart off-ball actions and defensive schemes.
Players like Fred VanVleet and Dillon Brooks, the Rockets&rsquo; veterans, will be counted on to provide leadership and stabilize the team when things go sideways. But this postseason will ultimately serve as a litmus test for how ready the Rockets&rsquo; young stars are to take the leap. Even if they fall short, the experience could be invaluable moving forward.
Los Angeles Lakers &mdash; How viable is their roster construction?
The Lakers shocked the league by acquiring Luka Doncic midseason, pairing him with LeBron James and Austin Reaves to form a high-powered offensive trio. Since then, they&rsquo;ve leaned heavily into small-ball, often starting lineups with Rui Hachimura and Dorian Finney-Smith alongside the core trio, while Jaxson Hayes remains their only true center. First-year head coach JJ Redick has installed a modern, five-out system that prioritizes spacing and switchable defense &mdash; a style tailor-made for the postseason.
But viability is still a concern. While the offense has thrived, their defense has some slippages, particularly when LeBron and Luka are on the floor together. Their lack of rim protection and size could be exploited by teams that boast elite drivers to the rim. Additionally, the wear-and-tear of postseason play could take a toll on their aging core, especially LeBron, who is playing his 22nd season and logging heavy minutes in the postseason
Ultimately, the Lakers&rsquo; playoff ceiling hinges on whether their current roster configuration &ndash; heavy on wings, light on bigs &ndash; can hold up when the game slows down and physicality ramps up. If it works, Redick could be hailed as a tactical genius. If it doesn&rsquo;t, questions about roster balance and long-term direction will resurface.
Denver Nuggets &mdash; Do they have enough help around Nikola Jokic?
Nikola Jokic is once again doing everything for the Denver Nuggets &mdash; and doing it at an MVP level. He finished the regular season averaging a triple-double and top 3 in every major statistical category. His ability to control the game as both scorer and facilitator remains unmatched, and he remains the engine of everything Denver does offensively. But after a sluggish finish to the season, the biggest concern for the Nuggets is whether Jokic has enough help to mount another deep playoff run.
Jamal Murray has battled through injuries and hasn&rsquo;t quite looked like the same dynamic scorer from their 2023 championship run. Michael Porter Jr. has been inconsistent, while Aaron Gordon&rsquo;s offensive impact has waned due to multiple injuries. Denver&rsquo;s bench has also taken a step back this year, with limited contributions outside of Russell Westbrook, Julian Strawther and Peyton Watson.
If Murray can elevate his game and Porter Jr. can knock down shots consistently, Denver remains a title threat. But the margin for error is much slimmer than last year. Jokic can only carry so much weight &ndash; the Nuggets need their supporting cast to deliver, or another early exit could be looming.
Los Angeles Clippers &mdash; Can we see James Harden and Kawhi Leonard lead this team to playoff glory?
After losing Paul George to free agency last summer, many assumed the Clippers&rsquo; title window had slammed shut. But the resurgence of James Harden and Kawhi Leonard has breathed life back into their playoff hopes. Harden has embraced the role of primary playmaker, averaging 22.8 points and 8.7 assists per game, while Leonard has quietly had one of the most efficient scoring seasons of his career in recent years, shooting 49.8% from the field and 41.1% from deep.
The Clippers finished the season strong with their offense clicking and defense holding steady. Yet the question remains &ndash; can their two stars carry them through the gauntlet of the Western Conference? Leonard&rsquo;s health has always been a question mark, and Harden&rsquo;s playoff track record has been a mixed bag at best.&nbsp;
This postseason may be one of the last chances for this iteration of the Clippers to make a real push. If Harden and Kawhi can replicate their regular-season success and stay healthy, they could make noise. Along with steady role players like Norman Powell and Ivica Zubac, the Clippers are darkhorse contenders and will be dangerous out in the West.
Minnesota Timberwolves &mdash; How will Julius Randle perform in the playoffs?
Minnesota shocked many by acquiring Julius Randle at the trade deadline, moving on from Karl-Anthony Towns in the process. The Wolves hoped that Randle, a more physical and downhill-oriented forward, would provide a better playoff fit alongside Anthony Edwards and Rudy Gobert. However, Randle&rsquo;s postseason history raises concerns &mdash; in 15 career playoff games, he&rsquo;s averaged just 15.6 points on 34.4% shooting from the field.
Minnesota will need more than that if they hope to build on last year&rsquo;s conference finals run. Randle must adapt his game to playoff basketball, where defenses are better prepared and isolation-heavy play often becomes less efficient. His ability to stretch the floor, make quick decisions, and play through contact will be tested, especially against elite defenses like OKC.
If Randle rises to the occasion, Minnesota could have one of the most balanced starting fives in the conference. But if he reverts to his inefficient playoff habits, the Wolves could find themselves stalling in critical moments &ndash; a risk that looms large in what could be a defining postseason for the franchise.
Golden State Warriors &mdash; How far can Jimmy Butler take them?
The Warriors made arguably the boldest trade of the deadline by acquiring Jimmy Butler from Miami, forming a star duo with Stephen Curry. Since the move, Golden State has looked rejuvenated, going on a tear to close the regular season and boasting the third-best net rating in the league during that span (+7.2). Butler&rsquo;s leadership, defense, and shot creation have given the Warriors a legitimate second option and re-energized their playoff outlook.
Butler has a proven playoff track record &ndash; he led the Heat to two Finals appearances in four years &ndash; and is widely regarded as one of the most clutch postseason performers. His fit with Golden State has been seamless, and the team&rsquo;s defense has improved significantly, ranking 6th in opponent points per game since the trade. The question is how far Butler can carry this version of the Warriors, who still lean heavily on their aging core.
If Butler can replicate his past postseason heroics and stay healthy, the Warriors have a real shot to upset higher-seeded teams and return to the Finals.
Memphis Grizzlies &mdash; Can they survive this tough season?
No team has faced more adversity this year than the Memphis Grizzlies. Between Ja Morant&rsquo;s on-court antics, injuries to key players, and coaching instability and firing, Memphis stumbled to a slump at the end of the regular season but managed to squeak into the playoffs as the 8-seed. Despite the chaos, the team has shown remarkable resilience, with Jaren Jackson Jr. and rookie Zach Edey emerging as bright spots with their improved play.
Now they face the top-seeded Thunder in a first-round matchup that few give them a chance to win. But if there&rsquo;s one thing the Grizzlies have shown, it&rsquo;s that they won&rsquo;t go down without a fight. Their defense could keep them competitive, and their physical style of play may pose problems for the Thunder.
Ultimately, the playoffs may serve more as a building block than a real title push. But if Memphis can steal a game or two &mdash; or even push OKC to the brink &mdash; it would be a testament to the team&rsquo;s grit and foundation heading into next season.

Breaking down the biggest question each Western Conference team faces heading into the 2025 NBA Playoffs.

2025 NBA Western Conference Playoffs: Each team’s biggest question in the playoffs

Every NBA season comes with its fair share of surprises, and the 2024-25 campaign has been no different. While championship contenders and superstars have dominated headlines, several teams have quietly &mdash; or loudly &mdash; rewritten their narratives in spectacular fashion. These aren&rsquo;t just flukes or hot streaks. These are teams that have made a leap, exceeded expectations, and found themselves in playoff positioning when few thought they&rsquo;d be here, or surpassing their previous season&rsquo;s accomplishments.
Whether it&rsquo;s through masterful coaching, player development, savvy roster moves, or simply finding the right chemistry at the right time, these are the teams that have all proven that projections and preseason power rankings don&rsquo;t always tell the full story. Here's a closer look at how these franchises flipped the script and are now among the best feel-good stories of the season.
Detroit Pistons Previous season&rsquo;s record: 17-65 This season&rsquo;s record: 44-38, 6th in the East
Perhaps no team has made a bigger leap &mdash; or captured the league&rsquo;s heart &mdash; more than the Detroit Pistons. Just a year removed from a miserable 17-win season, the Pistons have pulled off one of the most dramatic turnarounds in recent NBA memory. They are now sixth in the Eastern Conference, and have set a playoff date against the third-seeded New York Knicks.
Much of that credit goes to newly hired head coach J.B. Bickerstaff, who brought immediate structure, accountability, and belief into a young locker room. But the star of the show has been Cade Cunningham. After an injury-riddled season last year, Cunningham has blossomed into a true franchise player this year &mdash; a dual-threat scorer and facilitator who commands the game at his own pace. His decision-making has improved drastically, and he's showing why he was the No. 1 overall pick. Cunningham is here, and he&rsquo;s gunning for that star/superstar status.
Surrounding Cunningham, players like Jaden Ivey (even though he was injured) and Ausar Thompson have also taken noticeable steps forward, while big man Jalen Duren has anchored the middle with toughness and poise beyond his years. Detroit has also had key free agent signings that brought veteran presence in the locker room in Malik Beasley, Tim Hardaway Jr., and Tobias Harris. They have also picked up vet PG Dennis Schroder in a trade to help Cunningham with the ball-handling duties. Everything that Detroit has done was in order to come back and see this moment &ndash; to be back in the playoffs. It&rsquo;s not just that Detroit is winning &mdash; it&rsquo;s how they&rsquo;re doing it: through defense, selflessness, and maturity. They&rsquo;ve gone from laughingstock to legitimate in over a season, and it has been incredibly fun to watch.
Houston Rockets Previous season&rsquo;s record: 22-60 This season&rsquo;s record: 52-30, 2nd in the West
After four long and grueling seasons of rebuilding, the Houston Rockets are back &mdash; and better than ever. They&rsquo;ve clinched 50 wins for the first time since the James Harden era and have soared into the second seed in the loaded Western Conference. This transformation didn&rsquo;t happen overnight, but every move the Rockets made over the last four years has culminated in a roster that&rsquo;s deep, versatile, and hungry.
It started with the front office, who made smart picks in the draft: Alperen Sengun and Jalen Green in 2021, Jabari Smith Jr. and Tari Eason in 2022, Amen Thompson and Cam Whitmore in 2023, and Reed Sheppard in 2024. The result? A blend of high-upside talent that&rsquo;s matured quickly under the right guidance. And that guidance came in the form of Ime Udoka &mdash; the tough, defense-first head coach who has instilled discipline and identity from day one.
The Rockets also balanced their youth with veteran leadership. Fred VanVleet and Dillon Brooks were crucial free-agent signings, and the trade for Steven Adams added much-needed size and experience in the paint. Sengun has quietly become one of the most skilled bigs in the league, averaging near triple-double numbers with his passing and post play. Meanwhile, Jalen Green&rsquo;s shot selection and efficiency have improved, making him a more consistent offensive threat.
Everything is clicking in Houston, and the best part? They&rsquo;re still only scratching the surface. It&rsquo;s officially liftoff time in Houston, Texas.
Cleveland Cavaliers Previous season&rsquo;s record: 51-31 This season&rsquo;s record: 64-18, 1st in the East
It might sound strange to include a 50-win team in a list of surprises, but the Cleveland Cavaliers have surpassed what many expected from them &mdash; and in a completely new way. After losing to the Celtics in the second round last season, many believed Cleveland had plateaued, stuck in a tier below the East&rsquo;s elite. But the arrival of head coach Kenny Atkinson changed everything.
Atkinson brought more than just X&rsquo;s and O&rsquo;s to Cleveland &mdash; he brought vision. His innovative offensive schemes breathed new life into the team, particularly Evan Mobley. The former third overall pick has emerged as a true two-way force this year, expanding his offensive bag while remaining a defensive anchor. Mobley has become more comfortable operating as a playmaker, setting high screens, making short-roll reads, and even spacing the floor.
Donovan Mitchell remains the alpha, capable of carrying the offense during clutch moments. But with Darius Garland and Jarrett Allen playing supporting roles to perfection &mdash; and the perfect role players giving them a punch off the bench &mdash; the Cavaliers are deeper and more dangerous than ever. This is their best season since LeBron left, and it feels like they&rsquo;ve finally found a sustainable identity. They're not just winning games; they&rsquo;re playing like a team that believes it can win the East.
Los Angeles Clippers Previous season&rsquo;s record: 44-38 This season&rsquo;s record: 50-32, 5th in the West
No team entered the season with lower public expectations relative to their talent than the Los Angeles Clippers especially after Paul George left in free agency. The assumption was that LA&rsquo;s championship window had finally slammed shut. But instead of folding, the Clippers responded with a defiant, gritty, and unified season that caught the league off guard.
Kawhi Leonard returned healthy and dominant, looking like the MVP-caliber player of old. His midrange game has been clinical, and he&rsquo;s elevated his play on both ends as the postseason approaches. But perhaps the most shocking resurgence came from James Harden, who has turned back the clock and delivered one of his most efficient seasons in years. Harden has assumed full command of the offense, orchestrating everything with poise and flair while re-establishing himself as a top-tier guard in the league that could possibly fetch an All-NBA plum.
The supporting cast has been outstanding. Ivica Zubac has taken a huge leap, anchoring the Clippers&rsquo; defense and finishing strong around the rim. He&rsquo;s firmly in the Most Improved Player conversation. Norman Powell has been a revelation in an expanded role, consistently providing scoring and hustle. The &ldquo;addition by subtraction&rdquo; idea has rung true &mdash; with more touches and opportunities, Powell has been better than ever.
And of course, credit must go to Tyronn Lue, who has maximized every piece of this roster and turned what many assumed would be a rebuilding year into a redemption tour. The Clippers became this gritty and rugged defensive team that no one wants to meet in the playoffs. They might be underdogs, but they&rsquo;ve built something real.&nbsp;
&ndash; &ndash; &ndash;
These four teams &mdash; Detroit, Houston, Cleveland, and Los Angeles &mdash; entered the season with vastly different narratives. But they all share a common thread: they weren&rsquo;t supposed to be this good. Whether through internal growth, roster management, or coaching brilliance, each franchise has exceeded expectations in its own way.
The playoffs will be the true test, but what these teams have already accomplished is worth celebrating. In a league where dynasties often dominate headlines, it's stories like these that keep the NBA fresh, unpredictable, and thrilling year after year.

Discover how the Pistons, Rockets, Cavaliers, and Clippers have surpassed this season's expectations and rewrote their narratives.

Teams that have exceeded expectations this season

Team Chuck&rsquo;s Global Stars and Team Shaq&rsquo;s OGs have advanced to the 2025 NBA All-Star Final game on Sunday night at the Chase Center in San Francisco.
Team Chuck&rsquo;s Global Stars, composed of Nikola Jokic, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Victor Wembanyama, Karl-Anthony Towns, Donovan Mitchell, Trae Young, Alperen Sengun, and Pascal Siakam, won against Team Kenny&rsquo;s Young Stars composed of Anthony Edwards, Evan Mobley, Jaren Jackson Jr., Jalen Williams, Cade Cunningham, Darius Garland, Tyler Herro, and Jalen Brunson with a final score of 41-32.
Gilgeous-Alexander led the way for Team Chuck with 12 points while Wembanyama and Towns contributed 6 points each.&nbsp;
Jaren Jackson Jr., Evan Mobley, and Darius Garland each tallied 6 points for Team Kenny but the team was marred by the absence of Anthony Edwards, who was scratched late from the game due to groin soreness.&nbsp;
Team Shaq&rsquo;s OGs, composed of LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, James Harden, Kyrie Irving, Damian Lillard, Jayson Tatum, and Jaylen Brown, bested Team Candace&rsquo;s Rising Stars from Friday night&rsquo;s Rising Stars game champion with a final score of 42-35.
Hometown superstar Stephen Curry had 8 points in front of the Chase Center crowd while Damian Lillard top-scored for the team with 9 points including the game-winning three-pointer.
Ryan Dunn and Dalton Knecht had 8 points apiece for the Rising Stars as they put up a good fight, but eventually fell short in the end.

Team Chuck’s Global Stars and Team Shaq’s OGs have advanced to the 2025 NBA All-Star Final game.

Team Chuck’s Global Stars, Team Shaq’s OGs set up battle in 2025 NBA All-Star

The NBA has officially announced the reserves for the 2025 All-Star Game, set to take place on February 16 at the Chase Center in San Francisco. These selections, chosen by the league's head coaches, will join the previously announced starters in the newly formatted All-Star mini-tournament.&nbsp;
Eastern Conference Reserves:
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Guards:</li>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="2">Cade Cunningham, Detroit Pistons</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="2">Darius Garland, Cleveland Cavaliers</li>
</ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Frontcourt:</li>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="2">Jaylen Brown, Boston Celtics</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="2">Pascal Siakam, Indiana Pacers&nbsp;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="2">Evan Mobley, Cleveland Cavaliers</li>
</ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Wildcards:</li>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="2">Damian Lillard, Milwaukee Bucks</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="2">Tyler Herro, Miami Heat</li>
</ul>
</ul>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
THE 2025 EAST ALL-STAR RESERVES: ⭐️ Cade Cunningham ⭐️ Damian Lillard ⭐️ Tyler Herro ⭐️ Darius Garland ⭐️ Evan Mobley ⭐️ Jaylen Brown ⭐️ Pascal Siakam <a href="https://t.co/KH8E1XAoh0">pic.twitter.com/KH8E1XAoh0</a>
&mdash; BasketballNews.com (@basketbllnews) <a href="https://twitter.com/basketbllnews/status/1885117401114820767?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 31, 2025</a></blockquote>

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Western Conference Reserves:
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Guards:</li>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="2">Anthony Edwards, Minnesota Timberwolves</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="2">James Harden, Los Angeles Clippers</li>
</ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Frontcourt:</li>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="2">Anthony Davis, Los Angeles Lakers</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="2">Victor Wembanyama, San Antonio Spurs</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="2">Jaren Jackson Jr., Memphis Grizzlies</li>
</ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Wildcards:</li>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="2">Alperen Sengun, Houston Rockets</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="2">Jalen Williams, Oklahoma City Thunder</li>
</ul>
</ul>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
THE 2025 WEST ALL-STAR RESERVES: ⭐️ Anthony Edwards ⭐️ Anthony Davis ⭐️ James Harden ⭐️ Jaren Jackson Jr. ⭐️ Alperen Şeng&uuml;n ⭐️ Jalen Williams ⭐️ Victor Wembanyama <a href="https://t.co/g1Sa3l4rcE">pic.twitter.com/g1Sa3l4rcE</a>
&mdash; BasketballNews.com (@basketbllnews) <a href="https://twitter.com/basketbllnews/status/1885122220240101829?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 31, 2025</a></blockquote>

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These reserves will complement the All-Star starters announced last week, which include prominent players such as LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Nikola Jokic.&nbsp;
This year's All-Star Game introduces a new format featuring a mini-tournament with four teams competing in three games. The 24 All-Star selections will be divided into three teams, each drafted by TNT's Inside the NBA analysts&mdash;Charles Barkley, Shaquille O'Neal, and Kenny Smith. The fourth team will comprise the winners of the Rising Stars Challenge, led by honorary general manager Candace Parker. Each game will be played to a target score of 40 points, adding a fresh competitive element to the event.&nbsp;
The 2025 NBA All-Star Weekend promises to deliver an exciting showcase of basketball talent, blending seasoned superstars with emerging players in an innovative and engaging format.

The NBA has officially announced the reserves for the 2025 All-Star Game.

NBA announces 2025 All-Star Game reserves

On Monday night, the players from the 2021 NBA Draft got paid after securing their rookie extensions before the 6pm deadline. Here&rsquo;s the full list of major rookie extensions&nbsp; that were finalized:
Moses Moody (GS), 3 years, $39 million
Trey Murphy (NOP), 4 years, $112 million
Jalen Green (HOU), 3 years, $106 million
Alperen Sengun (HOU), 5 years, $185 million
Jalen Suggs (ORL), 5 years, $151 million
Jaden Hardy (DAL), 3 years, $18 million
Jalen Johnson (ATL), 5 years, $150 million
Corey Kispert (WAS), 4 years, $54 million
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
LOOK: The full list of major rookie extensions finalized before the 6PM deadline earlier today: 🟥 Moses Moody (GS) 3 years, $39 million 🟥 Trey Murphy (NOP) 4 years, $112 million 🟥 Jalen Green (HOU) 3 years, $106 million 🟥 Alperen Sengun (HOU) 5 years, $185 million 🟥&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/nwGgOkkXpz">pic.twitter.com/nwGgOkkXpz</a>
&mdash; BasketballNews.com (@basketbllnews) <a href="https://twitter.com/basketbllnews/status/1848585822519628194?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 22, 2024</a></blockquote>

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On Monday night, the players from the 2021 NBA Draft got paid after securing their rookie extensions before the 6pm deadline.

2024 Rookie Contract Extensions: 2021 Draft guys secure hefty paydays

With the 2024-25 NBA season just days away, the Western Conference is locked, loaded, and ready for battle. The offseason drama has settled, rosters are finalized, and every team is gearing up for what promises to be a fierce and competitive race. From reigning contenders to rising underdogs, the West is stacked with talent and ambition. Let&rsquo;s break down the top 15 teams in the West as we head into this thrilling new season&mdash;no frills, just what you need to know.
<ol>
<li> Minnesota Timberwolves The Timberwolves are turning a new page after trading away longtime cornerstone Karl-Anthony Towns for Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo and are now fully embracing Anthony Edwards as the franchise cornerstone. The T-Wolves&rsquo; mix of young talent and veteran leadership gives them a balanced roster around Edwards. Rudy Gobert remains a defensive anchor as a 4-time DPOY, Edwards is primed for a superstar leap, and if the supporting cast, including Jaden McDaniels and Naz Reid, steps up, the Wolves could be ready to take the top spot in the West.</li>
<li> Oklahoma City Thunder The Thunder&rsquo;s rebuild is no longer a long-term project; they&rsquo;re ready to compete now. However, due to Isaiah Hartenstein&rsquo;s injury to start the season, we&rsquo;re placing the Thunder at no.2 for now. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is already an All-NBA guard and arguably a top 5 player in the league. Chet Holmgren and Jalen Williams figure out to be the dynamic inside-out duo around SGA. Add in Hartenstein and Alex Caruso, the two new acquisitions this offseason with their capable role players Lu Dort, Cason Wallace, Aaron Wiggins, and Isaiah Joe, this young core is as versatile as it is exciting. OKC&rsquo;s depth and versatility on both ends of the floor could propel them into serious title contention.</li>
<li> Phoenix Suns The Suns have loaded up for a title run, and with Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal leading the charge, Phoenix has one of the most dangerous offensive trios in the league. They have added their most significant hole which is the PG spot with a solid pick up in Tyus Jones, and they have one of the best offensive coaches in the league in Mike Budenholzer. The Suns&rsquo; questions lie in their depth and health, but if they can manage those concerns, they&rsquo;re built for a championship push. Their offensive firepower is unmatched, and if they click, the Suns will be a team no one wants to face.</li>
<li> Memphis Grizzlies Memphis has weathered their offseason storms and enters the season with a gritty identity intact. Ja Morant is back after his injury and suspension last year and he will now play with last season&rsquo;s addition Marcus Smart. Together with the continued growth of Jaren Jackson Jr. and Desmond Bane, the Grizzlies are primed to be competitive and come back from their prime two seasons ago where they won 50+ games. Memphis&rsquo; defensive dominance paired with offensive firepower ensures they can be one of the top teams in the West with a deep bench with solid role players.</li>
<li> Denver Nuggets After falling short to Minnesota in 7 games last playoffs, the Nuggets will enter the season with their core mostly intact. Nikola Jokić remains the most dominant center and the best player in the game. With Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr. healthy, the Nuggets are poised for another deep run. But perhaps their biggest loss this season was losing Kentavious Caldwell-Pope to free agency and that might be a hit so they&rsquo;re currently ranked at no.5 to start the year. It could be a lot to ask for young players like Christian Braun or Julian Strawther to fill the void left by KCP, so it will be interesting to see how Denver handles his loss this season.</li>
<li> Dallas Mavericks Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving experiment is back after a successful season last year, where Dallas entered the NBA Finals for the first time since 2011 &ndash; when they won the title. The two stars can mesh to create one of the league&rsquo;s most potent offenses and with the continued internal development of young players like Dereck Lively, the Mavs can build on that Finals appearance. With newcomer Klay Thompson set to provide historic spacing for their dynamic duo, Dallas has the talent to climb the standings and challenge the top teams in the West.</li>
<li> New Orleans Pelicans The Pelicans&rsquo; fate will always hinge on Zion Williamson&rsquo;s health. When Zion plays, New Orleans is a force to be reckoned with. Now paired with newly-acquired point guard Dejounte Murray, they have a balanced attack capable of competing with any team in the conference with Brandon Ingram and CJ McCollum still on the fold. If Zion stays on the floor, the Pelicans could find themselves rising up the ranks, but his availability remains the biggest X-factor.</li>
<li> Golden State Warriors The Warriors are clinging to their championship window with Stephen Curry still playing at an elite level. The addition of capable veterans in Kyle Anderson, Buddy Hield, and DeAnthony Melton gives them depth and personnel that can play in their offense to surround the core of Curry and Draymond Green for their foundation. Health and age are concerns, but if their veterans stay intact, Golden State can&rsquo;t be counted out.</li>
<li> Sacramento Kings The Kings struggled a bit last season after making their long-awaited playoff return two seasons ago, and they&rsquo;re looking to build on that momentum. They have signed DeMar DeRozan and he should bring a new wrinkle to their motion and three-hunting offense. DeRozan&rsquo;s mid range ability should be a welcome addition to Sacramento&rsquo;s offense. De&rsquo;Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis still lead an explosive offense, but defense remains a question mark. Sacramento&rsquo;s high-flying, fast-paced style makes them a regular-season juggernaut, but they&rsquo;ll need to tighten up defensively if they want to make a deep playoff run.</li>
<li> Los Angeles Lakers The Lakers are counting on LeBron James and Anthony Davis staying healthy for a full season. With the front office standing pat on making moves this offseason, the Lakers&rsquo; success will hinge on their superstar duo. If LeBron and AD can avoid injury, Los Angeles will be a formidable playoff team, but health is always a looming concern with this group.</li>
<li> Houston Rockets The Rockets added veterans Fred VanVleet and Dillon Brooks to guide their young core last season and this season could be the time for them to step up. They finished strong last year behind defensive minded coach Ime Udoka and the result could be a team that surprises many. Jalen Green and Alperen Sengun have star potential, and younger players Jabari Smith Jr. and Amen Thompson add even more excitement. The Rockets also drafted Reed Sheppard with the 3rd pick and Houston is hoping to lay the foundation for success and could push for a Play-In spot this season.</li>
<li> San Antonio Spurs Victor Wembanyama enters his second season, and the Spurs are fully embracing their rebuild around the budding star. While Wembanyama showed flashes of brilliance as a rookie, San Antonio is still in the development phase. But with the addition of Chris Paul, the Spurs now have a capable PG to feed Wemby and the other guys, possibly unlocking a new level to their games. With their young core, the Spurs may not be a playoff team yet, but their future looks incredibly bright with Wembanyama leading the way.</li>
<li> Los Angeles Clippers The Clippers&rsquo; fortunes rest on the health of Kawhi Leonard&mdash;again. After losing Paul George for nothing, Leonard is left to fend LA off by himself in their new arena at Intuit Dome. Gone are the days when LA has the talent to compete with anyone as they&rsquo;re just but a shell of themselves. Leading the way for the injured Leonard will be a 34-year-old James Harden and that might be too much to ask of the aging superstar. However, if Kawhi can return healthy and he can avoid the injury bug, the Clippers will be in the playoff mix, but that&rsquo;s a big &ldquo;if&rdquo; for this squad.</li>
<li> Portland Trail Blazers With Damian Lillard long gone, the Blazers will fully commit another season to their rebuild. Scoot Henderson, Anfernee Simons, and Shaedon Sharpe form a promising young core, but Portland will likely spend this season focusing on player development. While they won&rsquo;t be in playoff contention, the Blazers are positioning themselves well for the future, with an eye on growth and improvement.</li>
<li> Utah Jazz The Jazz are continuing their rebuild, with Lauri Markkanen emerging as a cornerstone player. While they have some intriguing young pieces like Taylor Hendricks and Keyonte George, Utah isn&rsquo;t ready to compete just yet. This season will be about development and finding which young players can be part of their long-term plans. The Jazz may not win many games this year, but they&rsquo;re building toward a brighter future.</li>
</ol>

Let’s break down the top 15 teams in the West as we head into this thrilling new season.

2024-2025 NBA Western Conference Power Rankings: A race at the top to start the year

The 2024 NBA Free Agency underway. Here's everything you need to know about the makings and the moves around the NBA.

2024 NBA Free Agency Tracker: All the signings and deals in the offseason

With just over a month left before the destinies of franchises are altered when the 2024 NBA Draft happens on June 26-27 at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, teams are hard-pressed on whether or not to keep their picks or trade them for win-now pieces.
Here&rsquo;s all the buzz around the league so far in anticipation of the big day:
Rockets open to trading no.3 pick for Mikal Bridges
According to reports, the Houston Rockets would be open to trading their 2024 NBA no.3 selection for Brooklyn&rsquo;s Mikal Bridges. The Rockets have been in a resurgence after being bad for 4 years since James Harden left the team and are now looking for a win-now piece to add to their team.
Led by young stars Alperen Sengun and Jalen Green and fiery coach Ime Udoka, the Rockets finished just outside of the play-in tournament this season. Adding Bridges instead of the third pick in the draft would allow the Rockets to be aggressive in winning next season and then develop the pick for future use.
Pelicans defer this year&rsquo;s pick to Lakers, choose to swap 2025 1st
The New Orleans Pelicans will defer their pick this year to the Los Angeles Lakers to choose to swap the 2025 pick instead, according to ESPN&rsquo;s Adrian Wojnarowski. The move is seen to be made in anticipation of what&rsquo;s about to be a weaker draft compared to recent years. The 2025 one, on the other hand, figures to be one of the best and deepest in years.
The Pelicans will keep their 21st pick this year and let the Lakers keep the 17th pick. According to reports, LA is also shopping the pick around to find a player suited around stars LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
Kings willing to part ways with 13th pick, Huerter, Barnes
As they prepare to retool this offseason around stars De&rsquo;Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis, the Sacramento Kings are reportedly willing to trade their 13th pick of this year; &lsquo;s draft along with Harrison Barnes and Kevin Huerter. Sacramento &ldquo;wants to seriously compete&rdquo; in Fox&rsquo;s and Sabonis&rsquo; prime years as they aggressively hunt for a win-now piece to pair with their two all-stars.

T teams are hard-pressed on whether or not to keep their picks or trade them for win-now pieces. Here’s all the buzz in the league.