2025 NBA Season

[OgNasty]

I would agree the Lakers have a ton of talent and should dominate on paper. They still have to learn to play together though. It’s pretty rare for a new team to win the chip right off the bat. Look at the Heatles. With only 4 days to go until their first preseason game, I’m sure they’re putting the work in to get their play styles on the same page.

[Kyraishi]

Does the Los Angeles Lakers this year have really a chance to dominate the league with this team? there's no doubt that they are one of the strong teams in the NBA this year but if they don't maintain a healthy body throughout the season then they might end up like how they were last season even though they have players like Westbrook in their roosters right now because the other team has some strong roosters too.

I think that they are a bunch of misfits that are chucked together, apart from LBJ of course.

And most people on that roster are over 30 years old which definitely causes issues.

The depth of the talent is impressive but will they keep up in 80 games of regular season and ~20 games in the playoffs? I'm not sure about that.

[Lanatsa]

Does the Los Angeles Lakers this year have really a chance to dominate the league with this team? there's no doubt that they are one of the strong teams in the NBA this year but if they don't maintain a healthy body throughout the season then they might end up like how they were last season even though they have players like Westbrook in their roosters right now because the other team has some strong roosters too.

I think that they are a bunch of misfits that are chucked together, apart from LBJ of course.

And most people on that roster are over 30 years old which definitely causes issues.

The depth of the talent is impressive but will they keep up in 80 games of regular season and ~20 games in the playoffs? I'm not sure about that.

You are underestimating them that much even though age does really affect specially on playing games on that number then I cant really blame out on how people do really end up on that kind
of impression.

For sure they would really make out some adjustments that they have missed out on last season.They are pretty aware of that when it comes to flaws and lackings.

[dwyane36]

It is quite obvious that Lakers will definitely dominate the league this season. The question is not if they can, the question if they can stay healthy, which has been the problem for them last year. Even prior year, before they got AD, before they were champions, they really had a problem with health issues.

Injuries were the main problem for the Lakers and other teams last season because players didn't have enough time to rest during the offseason in 2020. IIRC the Lakers had the shortest offseason in NBA history, considering that they only rested for 71 days. Let's hope that we will see fewer injuries in the upcoming season.

[harizen]

It is quite obvious that Lakers will definitely dominate the league this season. The question is not if they can, the question if they can stay healthy, which has been the problem for them last year. Even prior year, before they got AD, before they were champions, they really had a problem with health issues.

When Lebron is not healthy and can't play with 100% then they always have a problem. He might be a little on the older side, but dude is definitely the best player on that team by far, not even AD would be better, we have seen AD play with a bad team all his life and he barely did anything, Lebron took tanking level teams to finals all by himself back in Cavs. So, this is why Lebron needs to stay healthy for them to be any good. IF they are healthy, then it is 100% guaranteed that they will dominate the whole league with an exception of maybe Nets if they can fix all the locker room stuff with Irving.

I might partially disagree. LeBron is not the same LeBron we see carrying the Cavaliers by his own before. Even with a healthy LeBron, the Lakers will struggle if some part of their key players will be injured. The last time LeBron goes in full rage was in the 2017-18 season where he played a perfect 82 games with an average of around 40 minutes per game and face the healthy Warriors in the Finals. That will be the last time we will see the pumped-up LeBron.

The Lakers' success this season is not just about LeBron staying healthy but his teammates too should be healthy all the way. LeBron is used to carry a heavy load but no player is immune to the effect of aging.

[Baofeng]

Does the Los Angeles Lakers this year have really a chance to dominate the league with this team? there's no doubt that they are one of the strong teams in the NBA this year but if they don't maintain a healthy body throughout the season then they might end up like how they were last season even though they have players like Westbrook in their roosters right now because the other team has some strong roosters too.

I think that they are a bunch of misfits that are chucked together, apart from LBJ of course.

And most people on that roster are over 30 years old which definitely causes issues.

The depth of the talent is impressive but will they keep up in 80 games of regular season and ~20 games in the playoffs? I'm not sure about that.

The last championship of the Chicago Bulls, 1996-1997, most of the players are way above 30 years old. If I'm not mistaken, Robert Parish was above 40 years old that time, and then Jordan, Pippen, Rodman, Harper and Steve Kerr on their 30's already.

So only time can tell if this bunch of oldies in Lakers uniform can make a run to the championship or not. Of course there will be injuries, no one can avoid it and then father time. But if all circumstances fall into pieces this year for the Lakers, then there is a big chance that can be in the playoffs and maybe in the finals.

[stomachgrowls]

Does the Los Angeles Lakers this year have really a chance to dominate the league with this team? there's no doubt that they are one of the strong teams in the NBA this year but if they don't maintain a healthy body throughout the season then they might end up like how they were last season even though they have players like Westbrook in their roosters right now because the other team has some strong roosters too.

I think that they are a bunch of misfits that are chucked together, apart from LBJ of course.

And most people on that roster are over 30 years old which definitely causes issues.

The depth of the talent is impressive but will they keep up in 80 games of regular season and ~20 games in the playoffs? I'm not sure about that.

The last championship of the Chicago Bulls, 1996-1997, most of the players are way above 30 years old. If I'm not mistaken, Robert Parish was above 40 years old that time, and then Jordan, Pippen, Rodman, Harper and Steve Kerr on their 30's already.

So only time can tell if this bunch of oldies in Lakers uniform can make a run to the championship or not. Of course there will be injuries, no one can avoid it and then father time. But if all circumstances fall into pieces this year for the Lakers, then there is a big chance that can be in the playoffs and maybe in the finals.

Dont you believe that they could really get in until to the finals? I do believe with their current roster specially now that Westbrook is there which i could say that Davis would be much more effective this time.

Most of the starter line up is already on 30+ age aside from Davis which is only 28. Still early to make out some judgement or conclusions that they couldnt able to get at least on playoffs with the current
roster.Lets just see on what would happen.!

[ultrloa]

Does the Los Angeles Lakers this year have really a chance to dominate the league with this team? there's no doubt that they are one of the strong teams in the NBA this year but if they don't maintain a healthy body throughout the season then they might end up like how they were last season even though they have players like Westbrook in their roosters right now because the other team has some strong roosters too.

I think that they are a bunch of misfits that are chucked together, apart from LBJ of course.

And most people on that roster are over 30 years old which definitely causes issues.

The depth of the talent is impressive but will they keep up in 80 games of regular season and ~20 games in the playoffs? I'm not sure about that.

The last championship of the Chicago Bulls, 1996-1997, most of the players are way above 30 years old. If I'm not mistaken, Robert Parish was above 40 years old that time, and then Jordan, Pippen, Rodman, Harper and Steve Kerr on their 30's already.

So only time can tell if this bunch of oldies in Lakers uniform can make a run to the championship or not. Of course there will be injuries, no one can avoid it and then father time. But if all circumstances fall into pieces this year for the Lakers, then there is a big chance that can be in the playoffs and maybe in the finals.

Dont you believe that they could really get in until to the finals? I do believe with their current roster specially now that Westbrook is there which i could say that Davis would be much more effective this time.

Most of the starter line up is already on 30+ age aside from Davis which is only 28. Still early to make out some judgement or conclusions that they couldnt able to get at least on playoffs with the current
roster.Lets just see on what would happen.!

They have pretty much good line up right now and for their current addition for sure they are now playoffs contender. Zach Lavine will not be the only one option of the team in offensive side since Derozan can help him also they already have good center with Vucevic as well their addition with Lonzo ball is good knowing he is also a good passer so we might see them competing with high caliber teams this season.

[TravelMug]

It is quite obvious that Lakers will definitely dominate the league this season. The question is not if they can, the question if they can stay healthy, which has been the problem for them last year. Even prior year, before they got AD, before they were champions, they really had a problem with health issues.

Injuries were the main problem for the Lakers and other teams last season because players didn't have enough time to rest during the offseason in 2020. IIRC the Lakers had the shortest offseason in NBA history, considering that they only rested for 71 days. Let's hope that we will see fewer injuries in the upcoming season.

Yeah, lots of team adjusted last year, and that's why we have a lot of injuries specially with the key players. Even Giannis got injured in the playoffs, but his recovery was very quick and maybe that injury is also not very serious as compare to Lebron and Davis who missed a lot of games and even played not 100%.

We can only hope that we won't see any key players getting injured specially entering the playoffs. Although now the Lakers have other options, they still need Lebron to anchor another season best and a championship.

[danherbias07]

Yeah, lots of team adjusted last year, and that's why we have a lot of injuries specially with the key players. Even Giannis got injured in the playoffs, but his recovery was very quick and maybe that injury is also not very serious as compare to Lebron and Davis who missed a lot of games and even played not 100%.

But when you look at how Giannis fell in one foot, it looks really serious at the clip. It even gave me the goosebumps as it gave me flashbacks of my own knee injury. Thankfully it didn't stretch too much that could've end up losing the Finals game or worse, his career. It's important for this players to have a strong legs before strengthening their upper bodies.

We can only hope that we won't see any key players getting injured specially entering the playoffs. Although now the Lakers have other options, they still need Lebron to anchor another season best and a championship.

As long as they can create their own chemistry, Lebron can sit down most of the games to preserve his strength. Play like 20-25 minutes just to heat up the game and let his team mates do the rest. He doesn't have to shoulder everything now, I guess that's the Lakers purpose for bringing veterans in their roster.

[wheelz1200]

Does the Los Angeles Lakers this year have really a chance to dominate the league with this team? there's no doubt that they are one of the strong teams in the NBA this year but if they don't maintain a healthy body throughout the season then they might end up like how they were last season even though they have players like Westbrook in their roosters right now because the other team has some strong roosters too.

I think that they are a bunch of misfits that are chucked together, apart from LBJ of course.

And most people on that roster are over 30 years old which definitely causes issues.

The depth of the talent is impressive but will they keep up in 80 games of regular season and ~20 games in the playoffs? I'm not sure about that.

The last championship of the Chicago Bulls, 1996-1997, most of the players are way above 30 years old. If I'm not mistaken, Robert Parish was above 40 years old that time, and then Jordan, Pippen, Rodman, Harper and Steve Kerr on their 30's already.

So only time can tell if this bunch of oldies in Lakers uniform can make a run to the championship or not. Of course there will be injuries, no one can avoid it and then father time. But if all circumstances fall into pieces this year for the Lakers, then there is a big chance that can be in the playoffs and maybe in the finals.

Huge difference.  1 they had prime jordan, no one could even come close to stopping him.  And then there is chemistry, they didn't chuck all those guys together for one year and expect them to mesh.  They knew how each other played, strength weaknesses etc.  It takes time, if you look back at trams that are hodge podge together with old on the downside stars it usually never works. 

[OgNasty]

Any predictions on what team will come in last place? I think Houston might be a good selection as they deal with the James Harden fallout and now trying to find a new home for John Wall… The Cavaliers seem stuck in the LeBron James hangover still. Kevin Love won’t let them buy him out and I don’t think his heart is in it anymore. That team is a mess and probably will be for another 2-3 years.

[carlisle1]

Does the Los Angeles Lakers this year have really a chance to dominate the league with this team? there's no doubt that they are one of the strong teams in the NBA this year but if they don't maintain a healthy body throughout the season then they might end up like how they were last season even though they have players like Westbrook in their roosters right now because the other team has some strong roosters too.

I think that they are a bunch of misfits that are chucked together, apart from LBJ of course.

And most people on that roster are over 30 years old which definitely causes issues.

The depth of the talent is impressive but will they keep up in 80 games of regular season and ~20 games in the playoffs? I'm not sure about that.

The last championship of the Chicago Bulls, 1996-1997, most of the players are way above 30 years old. If I'm not mistaken, Robert Parish was above 40 years old that time, and then Jordan, Pippen, Rodman, Harper and Steve Kerr on their 30's already.

So only time can tell if this bunch of oldies in Lakers uniform can make a run to the championship or not. Of course there will be injuries, no one can avoid it and then father time. But if all circumstances fall into pieces this year for the Lakers, then there is a big chance that can be in the playoffs and maybe in the finals.

Not sure if that a typo error but the last title of Bulls is 97-98 against the Jazz, though you are right in terms of age

most players are also in their mid 30's but the determination to keep on top is what the Bulls edge to any team.
They are not willing to lose their opportunities each time they are in the finals.

If Lakers new squad has that determination, they have the big chance to win another title.

[stadus]

Any predictions on what team will come in last place? I think Houston might be a good selection as they deal with the James Harden fallout and now trying to find a new home for John Wall… The Cavaliers seem stuck in the LeBron James hangover still. Kevin Love won’t let them buy him out and I don’t think his heart is in it anymore. That team is a mess and probably will be for another 2-3 years.

I guess the rockets here will be the worst team this season, they don't have good chemistry and don't have a player that would lead them. John Wall will be leaving and probably Christian Wood will leave as well. For the Cavaliers, yes, they will remain a bad team but least would have a little improvement and would end a better record than the rockets.

[danherbias07]

Any predictions on what team will come in last place? I think Houston might be a good selection as they deal with the James Harden fallout and now trying to find a new home for John Wall… The Cavaliers seem stuck in the LeBron James hangover still. Kevin Love won’t let them buy him out and I don’t think his heart is in it anymore. That team is a mess and probably will be for another 2-3 years.

I am sure it won't be Detroit Pistons. They have Jerami Grant and now they added the number 1 Draft Pick Cade Cunningham and if that guy suddenly make a connection with Jerami it will be a good duo with both strength to attack the rim.
Orlando Magic for the East.
Oklahoma City Thunder for the West.
Both teams didn't even made a good move at the trade but instead gave up most of their good players to gain cap space and rebuild. Maybe next year will be their time to improve their roster.

[OgNasty]

Any predictions on what team will come in last place? I think Houston might be a good selection as they deal with the James Harden fallout and now trying to find a new home for John Wall… The Cavaliers seem stuck in the LeBron James hangover still. Kevin Love won’t let them buy him out and I don’t think his heart is in it anymore. That team is a mess and probably will be for another 2-3 years.

I guess the rockets here will be the worst team this season, they don't have good chemistry and don't have a player that would lead them. John Wall will be leaving and probably Christian Wood will leave as well. For the Cavaliers, yes, they will remain a bad team but least would have a little improvement and would end a better record than the rockets.

You’re probably right. Maybe Kevin Love will step up after his Olympic catastrophe in the offseason. The one thing that would derail that prediction is if John Wall decides he wants to stay in Houston (he should because of his contract and the Texas state taxes) or if they’re unable to find a taker. I don’t see him accepting a buyout so it’s possible he stays and carries the Rockets to a decent record. We’ll see.

[dupee419]

Any predictions on what team will come in last place? I think Houston might be a good selection as they deal with the James Harden fallout and now trying to find a new home for John Wall… The Cavaliers seem stuck in the LeBron James hangover still. Kevin Love won’t let them buy him out and I don’t think his heart is in it anymore. That team is a mess and probably will be for another 2-3 years.

Houston has Jalen Green though, been watching the kid's clips on YouTube ever since, if he stays healthy and consistent, he has the potential to bring Houston in a better position (not sure in the playoffs though, he's still a rookie), also, I do think that the Wizards may need a solid PG after Russ being traded to the Lakers, John Wall would be a great fit once again for the Wizards with Bradley Beal.

Kevin Love on the other hand was throwing the game, after his return, I guess things just didn't feel the same anymore to him when LeBron and Kyrie was in the Cavs with him, really a sad situation for him though, it's not that Kevin Love isn't allowed for a buyout but he himself is not interested to negotiate a buyout with the team, after finding this out, I feel like Kevin Love doesn't have that much love for the game anymore, with 2 more years on his contract, I feel like he just wants to finish his contract, collect his remaining salary, and retire from the NBA, although his fans won't like that, but I feel like K. Love is pretty much content with his achievements as an NBA player, just my own speculation about his situation but I'd love to see him play more, he really is a big help and influence to the young players in Cavs.

[Maslate]

Houston has Jalen Green though, been watching the kid's clips on YouTube ever since, if he stays healthy and consistent, he has the potential to bring Houston in a better position (not sure in the playoffs though, he's still a rookie),

A rookie that would lead a team, that's unlikely but if they don't have any option, then probably we will see him getting more minutes and though the Rockets would not be in the playoffs (I presume), I think the kid will have an impressive rookie season which is enough for him to build a good stats for a better contract in the future.

[Pamadar]

Houston has Jalen Green though, been watching the kid's clips on YouTube ever since, if he stays healthy and consistent, he has the potential to bring Houston in a better position (not sure in the playoffs though, he's still a rookie),

A rookie that would lead a team, that's unlikely but if they don't have any option, then probably we will see him getting more minutes and though the Rockets would not be in the playoffs (I presume), I think the kid will have an impressive rookie season which is enough for him to build a good stats for a better contract in the future.

Without any known stars? Probably that will happen. Green will have more minutes and more exposures.

Just hoping that he won't suffer to any major injury during his first season, with how I see him from those highlights videos this kid
have skills that he can showcase hopefully he'll able to impress more fans even he's playing with the Rockets.

Not expecting anything from this team, with that lineup making to the next round, might be a good surprise.

[Yaunfitda]

Houston has Jalen Green though, been watching the kid's clips on YouTube ever since, if he stays healthy and consistent, he has the potential to bring Houston in a better position (not sure in the playoffs though, he's still a rookie),

A rookie that would lead a team, that's unlikely but if they don't have any option, then probably we will see him getting more minutes and though the Rockets would not be in the playoffs (I presume), I think the kid will have an impressive rookie season which is enough for him to build a good stats for a better contract in the future.

He needs to be something special to lead a team, but we have seen it in recent years wherein a rookie carried a team, Ja Morant is a prime example.

So hopefully, (I'm a fan of Jalen btw), we can see his talent in Houston and win the rookie of the year. And who knows, maybe someone can Houston can complement his style of basketball an at least improve their standing post-Harden.