As summer approaches, the NBA landscape shifts with the conclusion of the 2024-25 season, and we now have a new champion: the Oklahoma City Thunder. This team has solidified its place as a powerhouse in the league, showcasing immense talent and a wealth of assets that have led them to this triumphant moment. With the Thunder's victory, it’s time for fans to brace themselves for the next phase of the NBA: the offseason and all the transaction rumors that come with it.
The Thunder spent the majority of the season at the top of our NBA Power Rankings, a testament to their dominance. This article will summarize the season while also offering a glimpse into the future with our tiered rankings for each team. These rankings will categorize teams into five tiers: Top Contenders, In a Good Place, The Bubble, Not the Tier to Fear, and Basement Floor.
Last Ranking: 1
Playoffs: Swept the Grizzlies in the West quarterfinals, defeated the Nuggets in a thrilling Game 7 in the semifinals, overcame the Timberwolves in the Western Conference finals, and clinched the NBA Finals in another Game 7 against the Pacers.
The Thunder's journey culminated in a championship, marking one of the most remarkable seasons in NBA history. With 64 victories achieved via double-digit margins, they boasted the league's top defense. Despite some nail-biting moments, including a 29-point deficit against Memphis and a grueling seven-game series against Denver, they emerged victorious. The team is anchored by the NBA Finals MVP and scoring champion Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, alongside key players like Jalen Williams and promising talents such as Chet Holmgren.
Last Ranking: 7
Playoffs: Defeated the Bucks in the East quarterfinals, overcame the Cavaliers in the semifinals, and beat the Knicks in the Eastern Conference finals before falling to the Thunder in the NBA Finals.
The Pacers had a remarkable postseason run, bouncing back from a 10-15 start to reach the championship series. Despite their impressive performance, they face uncertainties, particularly regarding Tyrese Haliburton's injury and Myles Turner's free agency. This offseason will be crucial in determining the Pacers' future trajectory.
Last Ranking: 8
Playoffs: Beat the Pistons in the East quarterfinals, defeated the Celtics in the semifinals, but lost to the Pacers in the Eastern Conference finals.
The Knicks demonstrated resilience by winning crucial road games during the playoffs. However, their failure to advance further led to the dismissal of head coach Tom Thibodeau. New leadership will be tasked with revitalizing the team and aiming for the NBA Finals for the first time since 1999.
Last Ranking: 9
Playoffs: Beat the Lakers in the West quarterfinals and the Warriors in the semifinals, but lost to the Thunder in the Western Conference finals.
Led by Anthony Edwards, the Timberwolves achieved more playoff series wins than they had in their entire franchise history. However, their journey ended in the conference finals against the Thunder, exposing some weaknesses that need addressing this offseason.
Last Ranking: 3
Playoffs: Swept the Heat in the East quarterfinals but were eliminated by the Pacers in the semifinals.
The Cavaliers had a strong start but faltered against the Pacers, raising questions about their roster's toughness. With All-Stars like Donovan Mitchell and Evan Mobley on the team, they have the potential to bounce back, but offseason adjustments will be critical.
Last Ranking: 11
Playoffs: Beat the Clippers in the West quarterfinals but lost to the Thunder in the semifinals.
The Nuggets faced challenges with depth and defense but showcased the resilience of Nikola Jokić. As they navigate the offseason, the focus will be on how to strengthen their roster and avoid past pitfalls.
Last Ranking: 13
Playoffs: Beat the Rockets in the West quarterfinals but lost to the Timberwolves in the semifinals.
The Warriors had a solid playoff run but were hampered by injuries to key players, including Stephen Curry. Addressing age-related issues and roster depth will be crucial for their future success.
Last Ranking: 2
Playoffs: Beat the Magic in the East quarterfinals but lost to the Knicks in the semifinals.
The Celtics faced a tumultuous postseason, culminating in the loss of Jayson Tatum to injury and the need for major roster adjustments. With significant decisions looming, the Celtics must regroup to maintain their competitive edge.
Last Ranking: 5
Playoffs: Lost to the Warriors in the West quarterfinals.
The Rockets showed promise but fell short in the playoffs. Their offseason strategy will focus on acquiring shooting talent and strengthening their roster for future success.
Last Ranking: 4
Playoffs: Lost to the Timberwolves in the West quarterfinals.
Despite winning the Pacific Division, the Lakers were unable to advance in the playoffs. They now face a crucial offseason with potential changes on the horizon.
Last Ranking: 6
Playoffs: Lost to the Nuggets in the West quarterfinals.
The Clippers struggled in the playoffs, raising questions about their core. They will need to make strategic moves to enhance their competitiveness moving forward.
Last Ranking: 12
Playoffs: Lost to the Knicks in the East quarterfinals.
With Cade Cunningham emerging as a star, the Pistons are well-positioned for the future. However, they must address free agency decisions to solidify their roster.
Last Ranking: 15
Playoffs: Lost to the Celtics in the East quarterfinals.
The Magic made strides this season but must continue to develop their young talent and find ways to improve their playoff performance.
Last Ranking: 10
Playoffs: Lost to the Pacers in the East quarterfinals.
Injuries and roster changes have left the Bucks at a crossroads. They need to make significant moves to regain their standing in the league.
Last Ranking: 14
Playoffs: Swept by the Thunder in the West quarterfinals.
The Grizzlies faced a tough postseason exit and must focus on rebuilding their roster to compete effectively next season.
Last Ranking: 19
Playoffs: Swept by the Cavaliers in the East quarterfinals.
The Heat struggled through a challenging season and will need to address their talent deficiencies in the offseason to regain competitiveness.
Last Ranking: 20
Playoffs: Did not qualify (eliminated by Grizzlies in Play-In Tournament).
The Mavericks are in a rebuilding phase and must focus on strengthening their roster moving forward.
Last Ranking: 17
Playoffs: Did not qualify (eliminated by Heat in Play-In Tournament).
With coaching changes and roster adjustments, the Hawks are looking to revitalize their team and return to playoff contention.
Last Ranking: 16
Playoffs: Did not qualify (eliminated by Heat in Play-In Tournament).
The Bulls have potential but need to make strategic moves to improve their standing in the league.
Last Ranking: 18
Playoffs: Did not qualify (eliminated by Mavericks in Play-In Tournament).
The Kings must address their defensive weaknesses and ensure a better performance next season.
Last Ranking: 23
Playoffs: Did not qualify (finished 34-48).
The Spurs are entering a transformative offseason with new leadership and the potential for significant roster changes.
Last Ranking: 21
Playoffs: Did not qualify (finished 36-46).
The Trail Blazers have a lot to evaluate this offseason to improve their roster and performance.
Last Ranking: 22
Playoffs: Did not qualify (finished 36-46).
The Suns experienced a tumultuous season and need to make strategic decisions to regain their competitive edge.
Last Ranking: 24
Playoffs: Did not qualify (finished 30-52).
The Raptors have potential but need to find a way to integrate their talents effectively moving forward.
Last Ranking: 26
Playoffs: Did not qualify (finished 24-58).
The 76ers face significant challenges with their roster and must focus on rebuilding to return to playoff contention.
Last Ranking: 25
Playoffs: Did not qualify (finished 26-56).
The Nets need to rebuild their talent base and make strategic moves in the offseason.
Last Ranking: 28
Playoffs: Did not qualify (finished 21-61).
The Pelicans face an uphill battle in rebuilding their roster and improving defensively.
Last Ranking: 29
Playoffs: Did not qualify (finished 19-63).
The Hornets have a lot of work to do to improve their standing in the league following a disappointing season.
Last Ranking: 27
Playoffs: Did not qualify (finished 18-64).
The Wizards are in rebuild mode and need to focus on acquiring new talent to reshape their future.
Last Ranking: 30
Playoffs: Did not qualify (finished 17-65).
The Jazz faced a challenging season and must focus on rebuilding their roster to enhance competitiveness.
