NBA Preseason Insights: What We've Learned About All 30 Teams

With the regular season nearly here, the NBA preseason offers a chance to understand how teams are shaping up. This period lets squads lay groundwork and figure out their identity and goals. Early success can spark momentum that lasts all season. So, what have we seen teams focus on? What still needs work? Let's break down the key takeaways from every team so far.

Eastern Conference

• Atlanta Hawks: The Hawks aim to build on last season's post-All-Star surge. Jalen Johnson’s growth is notable; his calmness in half-court sets him apart. Developing pull-up threes and scoring without help defense will be crucial. Meanwhile, Lu Dort and Dyson Daniels shine on defense together.
• Boston Celtics: Trading Jaylen Brown signaled Boston doubling down on quick ball movement and player motion. A healthier Jayson Tatum looks decisive again. Paul George’s versatility alongside young wings helps, and their aggressive defense complicates opponents’ drives.
• Brooklyn Nets: Brooklyn continues its youth movement with players like Mikel Brown Jr. and Nolan Traoré impressing. Julius Randle stabilizes the half-court with his playmaking and drives, setting up teammates like Michael Porter Jr.
• Charlotte Hornets: Depth defines Charlotte, with Naz Reid’s ability to drive and Brandon Miller’s determined attacks standing out. Moussa Diabate’s activity on both ends remains consistent. Creating efficient offense remains a challenge.
• Chicago Bulls: The Bulls experiment with lineups, using screens creatively to create driving lanes for Norman Powell and Caleb Wilson. Leonard Miller’s performance also draws attention.
• Cleveland Cavaliers: Peyton Watson’s defense shows promise despite inconsistent shooting. The Cavs emphasize elbow plays involving Donovan Mitchell and James Harden, who has returned to midrange shots.
• Detroit Pistons: Adding shooters has helped the Pistons focus on ball and player movement, increasing quick decisions and creating opportunities around Cade Cunningham and Ausar Thompson.
• Indiana Pacers: Tyrese Haliburton’s return rejuvenates Indiana’s offense. Ivica Zubac impacts both ends, and their defensive rotations will be key to maintaining consistency.
• Miami Heat: Giannis Antetokounmpo’s presence stretches defenses and blends with Miami’s drive-and-kick style. His screening opens space for Klay Thompson and Andrew Wiggins benefits from generated shots.
• Milwaukee Bucks: The Bucks heavily rely on three-pointers, but whether by design or ease of generation remains unclear. New players like Brayden Burries show aggression, while Nate Ament's energy was notable before injury.
• New York Knicks: The Knicks focus on movement, flow, and cutting on offense, while reestablishing defensive principles. Andre Drummond anchors their defense effectively.
• Orlando Magic: Orlando pushes for faster tempo and quick decisions, maximizing Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner’s teamwork. Defensive improvement will be necessary for sustained success.
• Philadelphia 76ers: Small sample size, but LeBron James and Joel Embiid anchor a spaced lineup. LeBron’s playmaking opens paths for Tyrese Maxey, who thrives off-ball. Pace and defense remain points to develop.
• Toronto Raptors: Kawhi Leonard’s return energizes Toronto’s offense and defense. Scottie Barnes also stands out defensively. Immanuel Quickley and RJ Barrett contribute consistently, while Collin Murray-Boyles works on his three-point shooting.
• Washington Wizards: Trae Young and Anthony Davis bring a new dynamic, combining to pressure defenses. Young’s downhill drives and passing stand out, while young players like AJ Dybantsa add energy and aggression.

Western Conference

• Dallas Mavericks: Spacing and cutting thrive when Cooper Flagg and Kyrie Irving share the floor. Actions often happen on both sides of the court, exploiting their ability to read defenses off-ball.
• Denver Nuggets: Denver’s starting lineup remains a strength, led by Nikola Jokić and Jamal Murray’s brilliance. Aaron Gordon’s offensive growth is key, and DeMar DeRozan brings clutch scoring off the bench.
• Golden State Warriors: Yaxel Lendeborg adds a fresh element with his shooting and hustle. Stephen Curry and Draymond Green maintain their influence, but the Warriors must find ways to evolve for playoff success.
• Houston Rockets: Marcus Smart fits Houston’s needs perfectly. Fred VanVleet’s return steadies the half-court. Amen Thompson and Alperen Şengün's decision-making could be pivotal alongside Kevin Durant’s impact.
• LA Clippers: Injuries have disrupted the Clippers, but Darius Garland shows no hesitation offensively. Keaton Wagler's consistency and Brook Lopez’s drives offer intriguing options.
• Los Angeles Lakers: Luka Dončić’s movement before pick-and-roll adds pressure. Austin Reaves grows confident as a playmaker. Walker Kessler’s defense and screening enhance the team's overall activity.
• Memphis Grizzlies: The offense feels smoother than last year, with Cameron Boozer’s versatility a highlight. Ty Jerome impresses with his stepback shots, adding a unique weapon.
• Minnesota Timberwolves: The starting lineup chemistry shines, especially LaMelo Ball’s fast-paced playmaking. Anthony Edwards is used more off-ball, easing his burden, while Jonathan Kuminga’s defense stands out.
• New Orleans Pelicans: The roster's talent suggests potential, but questions remain about cohesion, focal points, and sustaining effort over full games. Trey Murphy III’s talent remains a key asset.
• Oklahoma City Thunder: Jalen Williams returns with energy and effort. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s increased off-ball role opens attacking chances, and his improved passing may add a new dimension.
• Phoenix Suns: More involvement from Jalen Green is desired to sustain pressure. His balance of scoring and playmaking shines when moving and receiving handoffs.
• Portland Trail Blazers: Damian Lillard’s return is evident, with his ability to play off-ball easing his load. Guard combinations including Ja Morant and Jrue Holiday provide exciting guard play with potential three-guard lineups.
• Sacramento Kings: Darius Acuff Jr. gets room to score, supported by Domantas Sabonis’s screens and Ben Simmons’s confident playmaking.
• San Antonio Spurs: Stephon Castle, De'Aaron Fox, and Dylan Harper playing together show offensive promise. Victor Wembanyama’s skill and growth remain a fascinating storyline.
• Utah Jazz: Coach Will Hardy encourages offensive freedom, leveraging Lauri Markkanen's versatility and budding chemistry among young players. Their early zone defense hints at a disruptive approach.