The 2024-25 NBA season is gearing up, kicking off on Tuesday night with the reigning champion Boston Celtics facing off against the revamped New York Knicks. Here are five key storylines to watch this season.
1. Can the New York Knicks Stay Competitive with a Shallow Roster?
This summer, the Knicks made bold moves, trading away draft assets for All-Defensive small forward Mikal Bridges and All-Star center Karl-Anthony Towns. However, this left them thin on depth, especially after losing former starter Isaiah Hartenstein to the Thunder. With only three healthy reserves with prior NBA experience, coach Tom Thibodeau may be forced to lean too heavily on his starters, which could spell trouble as the season progresses.
Read more: NBA Executives Think Knicks Lost Blockbuster 3-Team Karl-Anthony Towns Trade
2. Can the Boston Celtics Repeat as Champs?
After dominating the playoffs last season with a 16-3 record, the Celtics enter the new season with a star-studded roster that includes All-Stars Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. With the team poised for another championship run, the looming question is whether this could be the final season they play together, given the potential financial implications of extending current contracts.
Read more: Celtics Win Record-Breaking 18th NBA Finals With Blowout Win Over Mavericks
3. Will the Oklahoma City Thunder Make a Finals Comeback?
After finishing with the best record in the Western Conference last season, the Thunder are looking to bounce back after a tough playoff exit. They added defensive stalwart Alex Caruso and former lottery pick Isaiah Hartenstein, complementing an already talented roster featuring MVP runner-up Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. With promising young talents like Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren maturing, the Thunder could be in for an impressive season.
Read more: Bulls, Thunder Agree to Huge Trade to Send Two-Way Star to Oklahoma City
4. How Will the Mavericks’ Roster Changes Shape Their Season?
Fresh off an appearance in the NBA Finals, the Mavericks have made significant roster adjustments, including the addition of Klay Thompson. His scoring ability should boost their offense, but ultimately, the success of the team will heavily rely on the performances of All-Star guards Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving.
Read more: Klay Thompson Looking to Find Similar Success Playing with Kyrie Irving
5. Can the Philadelphia 76ers Break Through to the Eastern Conference Finals?
The 76ers have a new look this season, surrounding stars Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey with a mix of new faces, including veteran Paul George, who is already sidelined with an injury. With concerns lingering over both Embiid’s and George’s health, doubts remain whether they can contend against teams like the Celtics or Knicks in the playoffs.
Read more: 76ers Stars Joel Embiid and Paul George Out for Season Opener