Evaluating NBA 2024-25: How Cavaliers and Warriors Are Thriving While Bucks and Timberwolves Struggle to Find Their Groove?

As the 2024-25 NBA season progresses through its first month, top teams have begun implementing their strategies and priorities to achieve their goals. While some, like the Cleveland Cavaliers and Golden State Warriors, are exceeding expectations, others, such as the Milwaukee Bucks and Minnesota Timberwolves, are struggling to optimize their plans. Let’s dive into the performances of 10 standout teams and their success in executing early-season strategies.

The Cleveland Cavaliers have made an impressive start by leveraging the combined strengths of their four star players: Jarrett Allen, Donovan Mitchell, Evan Mobley, and Darius Garland. Under new coach Kenny Atkinson, the team has shown significant improvement. The net rating of this quartet (+8.8) is comparable to their 2022-23 season when they had the best defensive efficiency in the Eastern Conference. Atkinson’s flexible system, blending starters and bench players, has helped the Cavaliers maintain stability and high performance.

The Dallas Mavericks replaced Derrick Jones Jr. with Klay Thompson, leading to a major defensive shift. Despite some initial concerns, Dallas has climbed to sixth in defensive efficiency, a 12-spot improvement from last season. While Luka Doncic has yet to reach MVP form, the defensive contributions of PJ Washington on the perimeter have kept the Mavericks competitive. If Dallas’s shooting – particularly from players outside Kyrie Irving – improves, the Mavericks could become serious contenders.

The Denver Nuggets faced the challenge of replacing Kentavious Caldwell-Pope with young players like Christian Braun and Julian Strawther. Although the Nuggets stumbled early, they’ve steadied with a five-game win streak. Braun, who joined the starting lineup, has been effective with a 44.7% three-point shooting rate. However, the team remains heavily reliant on MVP-caliber performances from Nikola Jokic, leaving them vulnerable when he is unavailable.

The Golden State Warriors have maximized their roster depth, utilizing at least 11 players in every game so far. Coach Steve Kerr has skillfully rotated the lineup, keeping the Warriors near the top of the Western Conference standings. With every player posting a positive net rating, Kerr’s strategy has been highly effective. However, as the playoffs approach, he may need to narrow the rotation to optimize postseason performance.

The Los Angeles Lakers are focusing on Anthony Davis, with hopes of him competing for the MVP award. Davis has responded with a dominant performance, boasting a team-high 32% usage rate. While LeBron James remains a crucial contributor, emphasizing Davis has paid off, delivering his best performance since the championship-winning 2019-20 season. The Lakers are showing the consistency needed to contend in the West.

The Milwaukee Bucks are struggling to fully utilize Damian Lillard and new coach Doc Rivers. While Lillard has displayed steady scoring ability, the team’s lack of defensive depth has led to a 2-8 start. Inefficiencies on both ends of the court require the Bucks to optimize Lillard’s strengths and restructure their lineup to regain competitiveness.

The Minnesota Timberwolves made a significant trade, sending Karl-Anthony Towns to acquire Donte DiVincenzo and Julius Randle. While the trade improved depth, issues with defensive efficiency and consistency remain unsolved. DiVincenzo hasn’t lived up to shooting expectations, but the Timberwolves’ bench has seen notable progress, keeping them competitive in the Western Conference.

The New York Knicks added Karl-Anthony Towns to fill their center void but have struggled defensively. Opposing teams have converted 85.5% of shots within five feet when guarded by Towns, highlighting the need for improvement in interior defense. If the Knicks aim to go further this season, addressing these weaknesses will be essential.

The Philadelphia 76ers are prioritizing the health of Joel Embiid and Paul George for the postseason. Despite a lackluster 2-10 start, they remain optimistic about securing a playoff spot thanks to the strength of the Eastern Conference. However, if the Sixers wish to compete for a title, they may need to revisit their approach to managing star player minutes.

The  are building aSan Antonio Spursround Victor Wembanyama, whose performance has improved significantly. While his shooting has developed, the Spurs need more veteran talent to support him. Wembanyama’s enhanced three-point shooting has made him a versatile offensive weapon, but for the Spurs to be serious contenders, they must further optimize their roster.

Looking Ahead

Every NBA team faces unique challenges and priorities this season. From the Cavaliers’ resurgence to the Bucks’ struggles, the 2024-25 season promises surprises and intense competition. Will teams refine their strategies to meet their goals? Only time will tell.