Predicting NBA season outcome
League has gotten off to crazy start this year
The NBA underwent one of the craziest offseasons in league history as it saw a number of changes. Nike officially became the jersey sponsor, the one and done rule was almost nixed, the playoff format went under review, record breaking contracts were handed out and the all-star game was changed to two captains.
The following teams are the ones who have undergone the most changes and controversy throughout the offseason.
Boston Celtics: The team traded for Kyrie Irving and signed Gordon Hayward this offseason while also adding Jayson Tatum with their Brooklyn pick. Tatum is reminiscent of Celtics’ legend Paul Pierce and will see extra playing time this season due to Gordon Hayward’s broken ankle. The Celtics clearly won the trade with the Nets that ruined Brooklyn’s franchise.
Cleveland Cavaliers: The defending Eastern Conference champions sent Kyrie Irving to the Celtics for Isaiah Thomas, Ante Žižić, Jae Crowder and the Brooklyn pick. They also added Dwyane Wade and Derrick Rose in free agency which gives them a huge talent boost. Crowder is the defender they desperately needed and Thomas, even though he is out until January with an injured right hip, should be back in good health for the playoffs. This team will be a serious contender to the Warriors.
Golden State Warriors: The team of the decade and the defending NBA champions only got stronger this offseason by acquiring Nick Young in free agency and retaining all of their key players. Kevin Durant and Stephen Curry are one of the best duos in NBA history. Anything less than another title will disappoint.
Houston Rockets: The Rockets come off a terrific season while keeping core playoff pieces and adding all-star Chris Paul from the Clippers. They will look to make a long playoff run and add chemistry between James Harden and Chris Paul who are both ball-dominant players.
Los Angeles Clippers: The Clippers traded away Chris Paul and almost lost Blake Griffin but were able to acquire Patrick Beverley and European superstar Milos Teodosic. The Lob City era consisting of Blake Griffin, Chris Paul and Deandre Jordan is officially over. It still is the most unlucky franchise in NBA history, but still remains a contender.
Los Angeles Lakers: They added Lonzo Ball from UCLA with the second pick in the draft who is known for his loudmouth dad and famous high school brother. The media often got tangled up in Ball’s off-the-court life instead of what he was doing on the court which almost hurt his draft stock. The Lakers got the face of their franchise in Ball, who is off to a solid rookie season, and will look to build with their young core.
Milwaukee Bucks: This offseason Kobe Bryant told Giannis Antetokounmpo he wants to see him win MVP so the big question is, can Giannis do it? Another question is will Jabari Parker stay healthy after having two ACL injuries in his first two years in the league. If he can stay injury free the Bucks will be a powerhouse in the East.
Minnesota Timberwolves: Minnesota reunited Jimmy Butler with Tom Thibodeau after trading for him this offseason. They were also able to sign Jeff Teague and Jamal Crawford to their roster and now have a core of Teague, Butler, Karl Anthony Towns and Andrew Wiggins. The team has a perfect combination of young talent and veteran experience that will allow them to compete in the West.
Oklahoma City Thunder: Superstar general manager Sam Presti was able to acquire Paul George and Carmelo Anthony for almost nothing while re-signing the reigning league MVP Russell Westbrook to a huge five year $205 million deal. They finally have surrounded Westbrook with a supporting cast who can give him a break at times. George and Anthony are the knock-down perimeter shooters the Thunder needed to be successful.
Philadelphia 76ers: The 76ers probably have the most exciting young team to watch out for. With Ben Simmons and Joel Embiid who are both averaging a double double along with first overall pick Markelle Fultz, this is a young team with lots of firepower. They will be a team to look out for in a couple of years.