The 2024-25 NBA season is off to an electrifying start, with big performances and unexpected turns captivating fans and insiders alike. Within just a week, we’ve witnessed standout showings from reigning champion Boston Celtics and a strong season opener from LeBron James, now in his 22nd NBA season.
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However, injuries have already impacted some teams, including the LA Clippers, sidelining Kawhi Leonard indefinitely, and the Philadelphia 76ers, who are without newly acquired star Paul George for the early part of the season. While some teams remain dominant, others are raising concerns with shaky starts. NBA insiders are already asking: which superstars are gearing up for an MVP campaign, and what early-season trends are likely to stick?
Early Surprises and Standouts
Michael Wright notes one of the biggest early surprises as the Los Angeles Lakers’ quick start. Centered around Anthony Davis, who posted more than 35 points in his first two outings, the Lakers have shown impressive form. With Davis dominating on points, rebounds, and blocks and LeBron James securing his first triple-double of the season with 32 points against the Kings, Los Angeles has logged three strong home wins over teams like Minnesota and Phoenix. Rui Hachimura and Austin Reaves have been impressive as well, adding to the Lakers’ early momentum.
Meanwhile, Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr surprised fans by committing to a 12-player rotation. Though it worked well in their initial games, concerns are emerging. Injuries, notably a recent ankle sprain for Stephen Curry, could alter Kerr’s plans as they aim to maintain rhythm and depth while keeping players happy.
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For the Cleveland Cavaliers, their unexpected 3-0 start under new coach Kenny Atkinson has drawn attention. Cleveland’s dynamic offensive play, with Donovan Mitchell and Jarrett Allen leading the charge, has delivered over 135 points in two games. Atkinson’s fresh tactics appear to be energizing the team and supporting their quest for a deep playoff run.
The Indiana Pacers and Tyrese Haliburton are a surprising letdown so far, especially given Haliburton’s rise last season. After an 0-for-8 game against the Knicks and only four assists in a match against the 76ers, fans are hoping Haliburton will bounce back. This rocky start adds unexpected pressure to a young team aiming to build on last year’s success.
Key Questions and Concerns
Several questions linger for NBA fans as early season games unfold. Tim MacMahon raises concerns over how many games Joel Embiid and Paul George will play together for the Sixers. With both players being managed conservatively, health remains a priority, but at what cost? While Philadelphia eyes a strong playoff push, they risk losing early season momentum and home-court advantage if key players miss significant time.
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Michael Wright also asks when Kawhi Leonard might return to action. Leonard’s absence has fueled speculation, especially as he missed the entire preseason and faces ongoing knee rehabilitation. For a Clippers team opening its new Intuit Dome arena and adjusting post-George, Leonard’s long-term health is crucial to avoid a repeat of his last season with the Spurs, where injuries clouded his future.
New Orleans Pelicans face the challenge of navigating without Dejounte Murray, sidelined with a broken left hand. Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram are no strangers to injury, but the loss of Murray is particularly tough as the Pelicans seek to refine their lineup. CJ McCollum’s experience offers stability, but integrating Murray remains crucial to their offensive plan.
Jamal Collier highlights the disappointment in seeing a fragmented Sixers lineup, with George and Embiid missing from action. But his primary worry centers on Leonard’s prolonged absence at age 33, hinting at deeper issues. The Clippers’ ability to stay competitive without their star forward raises questions about their trajectory in a newly competitive Western Conference.
Standout Candidates for MVP and Rookie of the Year
In terms of MVP contenders, Oklahoma City Thunder have shown promise, continuing their dominance with a resounding opening night victory over the Nuggets. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been nearly unstoppable, with Chet Holmgren stepping up alongside him, showcasing a well-rounded team primed for success.
Jayson Tatum of the Celtics is also making an early case for MVP. After fine-tuning his shooting form, he’s connected on 60% of his field goals and 50% from three in the first games, showing that his offseason work with coach Joe Mazzulla is paying dividends. Boston, fresh off their championship win, looks determined to repeat, with Tatum as a centerpiece.
Chet Holmgren is shaping up as an exciting Rookie of the Year candidate, delivering nearly 24 points, 13 rebounds, and 4 blocks per game. His three-point shooting has room to improve, but Holmgren’s physicality and focus on driving to key positions on the court have impressed. The Thunder are poised to benefit from his ongoing development, especially with free-agent Isaiah Hartenstein expected to join after his recovery.
Indiana Pacers and Tyrese Haliburton are a surprising letdown so far, especially given Haliburton’s rise last season. After an 0-for-8 game against the Knicks and only four assists in a match against the 76ers, fans are hoping Haliburton will bounce back. This rocky start adds unexpected pressure to a young team aiming to build on last year’s success.
Bold Predictions for the Season Ahead
Michael Wright offers a bold prediction: Denver Nuggets, despite being recent champions, could struggle without Kentavious Caldwell-Pope anchoring both ends of the floor. With Jamal Murray not yet at 100% and depth issues arising in the backcourt, the Nuggets may need more than the steady hand of Christian Braun and an aging Russell Westbrook to remain competitive.
Jamal Collier believes Boston and Oklahoma City are primed for over 60 wins each. Both teams have a deep, balanced roster and a drive to stay at the top of their conferences, and both could shape this season’s narrative as the league’s most dominant forces.
Lastly, Tim MacMahon suggests the Rookie of the Year title may surprise fans, with second-round picks like Yves Missi and Ryan Dunn emerging as dark horses. Both rookies are gaining attention for their three-point shooting and defensive impact, showing that the Rookie of the Year race may not solely favor lottery picks.
Trends to Watch Moving Forward
Two key trends may shape the season: the dominance of international players in the MVP conversation and the Boston Celtics’ three-point shooting frenzy. Luka Doncic, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and Nikola Jokic are likely MVP contenders, while Giannis Antetokounmpo and Joel Embiid stand strong as well. Notably, no American-born player has claimed the MVP since James Harden in 2018, marking a five-year streak of international MVPs.
Meanwhile, Boston’s impressive three-point shooting performance, with 29 made shots in their season opener against the Knicks, suggests the Celtics are fully embracing the three-ball. Boston’s strategy may continue to be a winning formula, as they average over 50 attempts per game and aim to keep their shooting streak alive all season.
