As 2024 draws to a close, the NBA landscape has been anything but predictable. While the calendar year may be ending, the real excitement of the 2024-25 season is just beginning. Unexpected teams have surged to the top of the standings, struggling stars look to reclaim their brilliance, and young talent continues to shine, giving fans plenty to anticipate in the months ahead.
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The Atlanta Hawks and Houston Rockets, once labeled as rebuilding franchises, have shocked the league with their competitive edge. Meanwhile, perennial contenders such as the Philadelphia 76ers and Indiana Pacers are still trying to find their footing amid injuries and inconsistent performances. With so many moving pieces in play, NBA insiders weigh in on who could turn things around, which teams might fall out of contention, and which emerging stars are ready to take the league by storm.
Players Ready to Turn It Around in 2025
Paul George: The Sixers’ season began underwhelmingly, in large part due to injuries plaguing their stars. George, recovering from a knee injury, made a delayed debut for Philadelphia, and MVP Joel Embiid also struggled with his health early on. However, recent glimpses of success suggest the Sixers’ season could be salvaged. In the limited games where George has been healthy, Philadelphia has looked competitive, winning four straight as George started settling into his role. As George regains his rhythm, the Sixers will rely heavily on him to drive their second-half resurgence and put them back in the playoff conversation.
Tyrese Haliburton: After a breakout 2023-24 season, Haliburton has endured a rough start to this year, with his scoring efficiency and assist numbers taking a hit. Despite his early struggles, there remains optimism that Haliburton will return to form. The Pacers’ offense, which was their hallmark last season, has shown flashes of brilliance, but injuries and inconsistency have hindered their progress. If Haliburton can rediscover his All-Star-level performance, the Pacers will once again be a dangerous team capable of making noise in the playoffs.
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Luka Doncic: By most standards, Doncic’s numbers remain elite, but his efficiency has dipped, particularly in shooting from beyond the arc. After missing training camp and the preseason due to a lingering calf injury, Doncic has struggled to find his usual dominance. Now healthier and back in game shape, he has begun to show signs of returning to MVP form. With the Mavericks firmly in playoff contention in the competitive Western Conference, Doncic’s resurgence could propel Dallas to new heights.
Kawhi Leonard: The Clippers’ star has been sidelined for most of the season as he recovers from ongoing knee issues. However, Leonard recently returned to non-contact practice, signaling that his return may be on the horizon. The Clippers have managed to remain competitive, largely thanks to the contributions of James Harden and Norman Powell. If Leonard can rejoin the lineup at full strength, the Clippers will become a legitimate threat in the Western Conference, particularly on the defensive end.
Teams Most Likely to Fall Out of Playoff Contention
While some teams are positioned to surge in 2025, others may face an uphill battle to remain in the playoff picture.
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Brooklyn Nets: The Nets have been surprisingly competitive under head coach Jordi Fernandez, but their long-term priorities remain clear. With a roster designed for future flexibility rather than immediate success, Brooklyn is expected to offload key veterans such as Cam Johnson and Dorian Finney-Smith before the trade deadline. As they shift focus to rebuilding, the Nets are likely to slide down the standings, reminiscent of the Utah Jazz’s approach in 2023.
Philadelphia 76ers: Although the Sixers have shown promise in recent games, their dependence on injury-prone stars such as Joel Embiid and Paul George makes them vulnerable. Any extended absence for either player could derail their playoff hopes in the competitive Eastern Conference. Their success hinges on health and consistency, both of which have been elusive so far this season.
Rising Stars Poised for Their First All-Star Nod
As we approach the midway point of the season, several young players have elevated their games to All-Star-caliber levels.
Tyler Herro: Amid the uncertainty surrounding Jimmy Butler’s future in Miami, Tyler Herro has emerged as a consistent offensive force for the Heat. Herro is averaging career highs in points (24.2), assists (5.0), and three-point shooting percentage (42.7%). His ability to carry the offensive load has been pivotal for Miami, making him a prime candidate for his first All-Star appearance.
Jalen Williams: The Oklahoma City Thunder’s impressive rise in the Western Conference has been fueled by Jalen Williams’ stellar two-way play. Averaging over 21 points, six rebounds, and five assists per game on efficient shooting, Williams has solidified himself as the Thunder’s second-best player behind Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. His contributions on both ends of the court make him one of the league’s most promising young stars.
Franz Wagner: Despite dealing with an injury, Wagner’s impact on the Orlando Magic cannot be overstated. Before his absence, Wagner was averaging 24.4 points, 5.7 assists, and 5.6 rebounds per game while leading the Magic to an impressive start. If Wagner returns to form, he will continue to be a driving force for Orlando’s playoff push and a deserving first-time All-Star.
A Bold Prediction for 2025
LeBron James and the Lakers Will Miss the Playoffs: While LeBron James continues to defy Father Time, cracks have started to appear in the Lakers’ foundation. The Western Conference is deeper than ever, and the Lakers’ roster has significant flaws, particularly in terms of depth and shooting. If the Lakers cannot resolve these issues, they risk missing the playoffs for the first time in James’ recent tenure.
The Clippers Will Make a Deep Playoff Run: Even if Kawhi Leonard’s availability remains uncertain, the Clippers have proven they can compete without him. Led by James Harden, Norman Powell, and Ivica Zubac, the Clippers have the depth and defensive prowess to make a surprise run in the postseason. With Ty Lue’s leadership and a healthy Leonard, they could emerge as a dark horse contender.
Which Team Needs Cooper Flagg the Most?
As teams look ahead to the 2025 NBA Draft, all eyes are on Cooper Flagg, a generational talent with the potential to change the fortunes of any franchise.
Washington Wizards: The Wizards are desperately in need of a foundational star. While the addition of Alexandre Sarr in last year’s draft offers some hope, Washington’s rebuild is still in its early stages. Landing Cooper Flagg could provide the Wizards with the franchise cornerstone they have lacked since the days of Gilbert Arenas and John Wall.
Chicago Bulls: The Bulls find themselves stuck in mediocrity, neither contending nor fully rebuilding. Flagg’s arrival could provide the spark Chicago needs to rejuvenate the franchise, much like Derrick Rose’s selection did in 2008. With the right pieces around him, Flagg could help the Bulls escape their current stagnation.
San Antonio Spurs: Pairing Cooper Flagg with Victor Wembanyama would give the Spurs one of the most dynamic young duos in NBA history. With Gregg Popovich at the helm, the Spurs could quickly transition from a rebuilding team to a legitimate contender.
Conclusion
The 2024-25 NBA season is far from over, and the coming months promise plenty of excitement. Struggling stars like Luka Doncic and Paul George have an opportunity to redeem themselves, while teams like the Brooklyn Nets face tough decisions that could reshape their futures. Meanwhile, emerging talents such as Tyler Herro and Jalen Williams are poised to claim their place among the league’s elite. As we look ahead to 2025, bold predictions and high stakes ensure that the NBA remains as unpredictable and thrilling as ever.
