The 2023-24 NBA season is finally here and as the summer rolled on, we saw some of the most historic offseason happenings in a long-time. The biggest prospect since LeBron James will be lacing up for the Spurs in Victor Wembanyama. We also have a few stars that have switched teams, as Damian Lillard is now a Buck, Braldey Beal is now a Sun, and CP3 has joined the Bay Area and teamed up with the best backcourt of the past decade with the Warriors. All of this is bringing many exciting new narratives to the league and are hyping up a season that could be one historic one. So as we always do, here is my 2023-24 NBA Season Preview, jam packed with predictions on standings, playoffs, and awards, as well as full rosters for all 30 teams and write-ups on each team including my thoughts and grades for the upcoming season. Hope you enjoy!
Standings
EASTERN CONFERENCE
1 – Boston Celtics 62-20
2 – Miami Heat 59-23
3 – Milwaukee Bucks 58-24
4 – New York Knicks 48-34
5 – Philadelphia 76ers 47-35
6 – Cleveland Cavaliers 46-36
— PLAY-IN
7 – Brooklyn Nets 44-38
8 – Indiana Pacers 43-39
9 – Atlanta Hawks 41-41
10 – Orlando Magic 39-43
–ELIMINATED
11 – Chicago Bulls 36-46
12 – Toronto Raptors 34-48
13 – Detroit Pistons 30-52
14 – Charlotte Hornets 26-56
15 – Washington Wizards 22-60
WESTERN CONFERENCE
1 – Phoenix Suns 59-23
2 – Denver Nuggets 56-26
3 – Golden State Warriors 53-29
4 – Los Angeles Clippers 48-34
5 – Oklahoma City Thunder 45-37
6 – Los Angeles Lakers 42-40
–PLAY-IN
7 – Sacramento Kings 41-41
8 – Minnesota Timberwolves 38-44
9 – Memphis Grizzlies 37-45
10 – New Orleans Pelicans 37-45
–ELIMINATED
11 – Utah Jazz 33-49
12 – Dallas Mavericks 32-50
13 – Houston Rockets 29-53
14 – San Antonio Spurs 24-58
15 – Portland Trail Blazers 21-61
Playoff Predictions
EAST
Play-In Tournament:
– 8 Indiana over 7 Brooklyn – Indiana earns the 7-seed
– 9 Atlanta over 10 Orlando – Orlando is eliminated
– 9 Atlanta over 7 Brooklyn – Atlanta earns the 8-seed, Brooklyn is eliminated
| 1st Round | EC Semis | EC Finals | EC Champs |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 – Boston vs. (BOS in 5) 8 – Atlanta | |||
| 4 – New York vs. (NY in 6) 5 – Philadelphia | 1 – Boston vs. (BOS in 6) 4 – New York | ||
| 1 – Boston vs. (MIL in 7) 3 – Milwaukee | Milwaukee Bucks EAST CHAMPS | ||
| 3 – Milwaukee vs. (MIL in 6) 6 – Cleveland | 3 – Milwaukee vs. (MIL in 7) 2 – Miami | ||
| 2 – Miami vs. (MIA in 7) 7 – Indiana |
WEST
Play-In Tournament:
– 7 Sacramento over 8 Minnesota – Sacramento earns the 7-seed
– 9 Memphis over 10 New Orleans – New Orleans is eliminated
– 9 Memphis over 8 Minnesota – Memphis earn the 8-seed, Minnesota is eliminated
| 1st Round | WC Semis | WC Finals | WC Champs |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 – Phoenix vs. (PHX in 5) 8 – Memphis | |||
| 4 – LA Clippers vs. (LAC in 7) 5 – Oklahoma City | 1 – Phoenix vs. (PHX in 6) 4 – LA Clippers | ||
| 1 – Phoenix vs. (GSW in 6) 3 – Golden State | Golden State Warriors WEST CHAMPS | ||
| 3 – Golden State vs. (GSW in 7) 6 – LA Lakers | 3 – Golden State vs. (GSW in 6) 7 – Sacramento | ||
| 2 – Denver vs. (SAC in 6) 7 – Sacramento |
NBA FINALS:
Milwaukee Bucks over Golden State Warriors (In 5 games)
Award Predictions
MVP: Nikola Jokic, DEN
Sixth Man of the Year: Norman Powell, LAC
Defensive Player of the Year: Jaden McDaniels, MIN
Most Improved Player: Cade Cunningham, DET
Rookie of the Year: Victor Wembanyama, SAS
Coach of the Year: Mark Daigneault, OKC
Roster Projections
EASTERN CONFERENCE
Boston Celtics
HC: Joe Mazzulla
2nd year, Career/Team record: 57-25, Playoff record: 11-9 – AGE: 35
| POS. | NO. | STARTERS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PF/C | #8 | Kristaps Porzingis | 7’3 | 240 lbs Latvia | Age: 28 | 23.2 pts, 8.4 reb, 2.7 ast, 1.5 blk 38.5% 3P – (WSH) |
| SF | #0 | Jayson Tatum | 6’8 | 210 lbs Duke | Age: 25 | 30.1 pts, 8.8 reb, 4.6 ast, 1.1 stl 35% 3P |
| SG/SF | #7 | Jaylen Brown | 6’6 | 223 lbs California | Age: 26 | 26.6 pts, 6.9 reb, 3.5 ast, 1.1 stl 33.5% 3P |
| G | #9 | Derrick White | 6’4 | 190 lbs Colorado | Age: 29 | 12.4 pts, 3.9 ast, 3.6 reb, 0.9 blk 38.1% 3P |
| PG | #4 | Jrue Holiday | 6’4 | 205 lbs UCLA | Age: 33 | 19.3 pts, 7.4 ast, 5.1 reb, 1.2 stl 38.4% 3P – (MIL) |
| POS. | NO. | BENCH | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PF/C | #42 | Al Horford | 6’9 | 240 lbs Florida | Age: 37 | 9.8 pts, 6.2 reb, 3 ast, 1 blk 44.6% 3P |
| F | #12 | Oshae Brissett | 6’7 | 210 lbs Syracuse | Age: 25 | 6.1 pts, 3.4 reb, 0.7 ast, 0.5 stl 31% 3P – (IND) |
| SF | #30 | Sam Hauser | 6’7 | 217 lbs Virginia | Age: 25 | 6.4 pts, 2.6 reb, 0.9 ast, 0.4 stl 41.8% 3P |
| PG | #11 | Payton Pritchard | 6’1 | 195 lbs Oregon | Age: 25 | 5.6 pts, 1.8 reb, 1.3 ast, 0.3 stl 36.4% 3P |
| SF | #77 | Lamar Stevens | 6’6 | 230 lbs Penn State | Age: 26 | 5.3 pts, 3.3 reb, 0.5 ast, 0.4 stl 0.3 blk – (CLE) |
| G/SF | #45 | Dalano Banton | 6’7 | 204 lbs Nebraska | Age: 23 | 4.6 pts, 1.5 reb, 1.2 ast, 0.4 stl 0.4 blk – (TOR) |
| PF/C | #40 | Luke Kornet | 7’2 | 250 lbs Vanderbilt | Age: 28 | 3.8 pts, 2.9 reb, 0.8 ast, 0.7 blk 66.5% FG |
| SF | #27 | Jordan Walsh (R) | 6’7 | 205 lbs Arkansas | Age: 19 | DRAFTED: 38th overall by SAC |
| SG | #50 | Svi Mykhailiuk | 6’7 | 205 lbs Kansas | Age: 26 | 6.9 pts, 1.7 reb, 1.7 ast, 0.5 stl 42.4% 3P – (NYK/CHA) |
| POS. | NO. | TWO-WAY CONTRACTS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PG | #20 | J.D. Davison | 6’1 | 195 lbs Alabama | Age: 20 | 12 GP, 1.6 pts, 0.9 ast, 0.8 reb 0.2 stl |
| C | #88 | Neemias Queta | 7’0 | 245 lbs Utah State | Age: 24 | 5 GP, 2.4 pts, 2.2 reb, 0.4 blk 66.7% FG – (SAC) |
| PF/C | #13 | Nathan Knight | 6’8 | 253 lbs Williams & Mary | Age: 26 | 3.7 pts, 1.5 reb, 0.3 stl, 0.3 ast 36.4% 3P – (MIN) |
PAUL’S THOUGHTS:
Projected Record: 62-20, 1st in EAST
MVP: SF Jayson Tatum
X-Factor: PF Kristaps Porzingis
ADD: PG Jrue Holiday
LOSS: PG Marcus Smart (MEM)
Grade: A-
After falling short in the 2022 NBA Finals, the Celtics answered back with another great season amidst adversity. Ime Udoka left town and Joe Mazzulla took over as HC, leading the team to a 57-25 record. They advanced to the Eastern Conference Finals and nearly pulled off a 3-0 deficit comeback, losing to the Heat in Game 7. Now into the new year, Mazzulla proved he’s the man for the job and a few shake ups took place. Former DPOY and fan favorite Marcus Smart was shipped to Memphis in a shocking move that brought star big man Kristaps Porzingis to Boston. Jaylen Brown was awarded the richest contract in NBA history as well, and many can go back-and-forth on whether this team is better than the two previous years.
Al Horford meshed well with the starting unit and I think that Porzingis will be brought off of the bench to lead the second unit. Veterans Oshae Brissett, Dalano Banton, and Lamar Stevens were all added to provide depth off the bench. Grant Williams left for Dallas and will be a big hole to fill, one that they hope the vets they added can plug. Boston is still easily the best team in the Atlantic and arguably the favorites of the East. I’ve been down on them the last two years, but I won’t make that mistake again for the upcoming season.
Brooklyn Nets
HC: Jacque Vaughn
3rd year in BKN, Career record: 108-193, Team record: 43-32, Playoff record: 0-8 – AGE: 48
| POS. | NO. | STARTERS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C | #33 | Nicolas Claxton | 6’11 | 215 lbs Georgia | Age: 24 | 12.6 pts, 9.2 reb, 2.5 blk, 1.9 ast 70.5% FG |
| F | #2 | Cameron Johnson | 6’8 | 210 lbs North Carolina | Age: 27 | 15.5 pts, 4.4 reb, 1.9 ast, 1.2 stl 40.4% 3P – (PHX/BKN) |
| SF | #1 | Mikal Bridges | 6’6 | 209 lbs Villanova | Age: 27 | 20.1 pts, 4.4 reb, 3.3 ast, 1.1 stl 38.2% 3P – (PHX/BKN) |
| G | #26 | Spencer Dinwiddie | 6’6 | 215 lbs Colorado | Age: 30 | 17.3 pts, 6.5 ast, 3.4 reb, 0.8 stl 36.9% 3P – (WSH/BKN) |
| PG | #10 | Ben Simmons | 6’10 | 240 lbs LSU | Age: 27 | 6.9 pts, 6.3 reb, 6.1 ast, 1.3 stl 56.6% FG |
| POS. | NO. | BENCH | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| F | #28 | Dorian Finney-Smith | 6’7 | 220 lbs Florida | Age: 30 | 8.3 pts, 4.8 reb, 1.5 ast, 0.8 stl 0.5 blk – (DAL/BKN) |
| F | #00 | Royce O’Neale | 6’6 | 226 lbs Baylor | Age: 30 | 8.8 pts, 5.1 reb, 3.7 ast, 0.9 stl 38.9% 3P |
| SG | #8 | Lonnie Walker IV | 6’4 | 204 lbs Miami | Age: 24 | 11.7 pts, 1.9 reb, 1.1 ast, 0.5 stl 36.5% 3P – (LAL) |
| PF/C | #21 | Noah Clowney (R) | 6’10 | 210 lbs Alabama | Age: 19 | DRAFTED: 21st overall by BKN |
| SG | #24 | Cam Thomas | 6’3 | 210 lbs LSU | Age: 21 | 10.6 pts, 1.7 reb, 1.4 ast, 0.4 stl 38.3% 3P |
| PF | #14 | Harry Giles III | 6’11 | 240 lbs Duke | Age: 25 | DNP – Free Agent |
| C | #20 | Day’Ron Sharpe | 6’9 | 265 lbs North Carolina | Age: 21 | 4.7 pts, 4.2 reb, 0.8 ast, 0.7 blk 54.4% FG |
| PG | #4 | Dennis Smith Jr. | 6’2 | 205 lbs NC State | Age: 25 | 8.8 pts, 4.8 ast, 3.1 reb, 1.4 stl 0.5 blk – (CHA) |
| PF | #9 | Trendon Watford | 6’8 | 237 lbs LSU | Age: 22 | 7.4 pts, 3.8 reb, 2.1 ast, 0.5 stl 39.1% 3P – (POR) |
| SF | #0 | Dariq Whitehead* (R/I) | 6’7 | 220 lbs Duke | Age: 19 | DRAFTED: 22nd overall by BKN |
| POS. | NO. | TWO-WAY CONTRACTS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SF | #22 | Jalen Wilson (R) | 6’8 | 225 lbs Kansas | Age: 22 | DRAFTED: 51st overall by BKN |
| SG | #13 | Armoni Brooks | 6’3 | 195 lbs Houston | Age: 25 | DNP – Played in G-League |
*Dariq Whitehead continues to rehab foot surgery and will miss the first 1-2 months
PAUL’S THOUGHTS:
Projected Record: 44-38, 7th in EAST
MVP: SF Mikal Bridges
X-Factor: PG Ben Simmons
ADD: SG Lonnie Walker IV
LOSS: SF Joe Harris (DET)
Grade: C+
What a difference a year makes as the Nets enter the new season by far the most shaken up since this time last year. The KD and Kyrie era flopped and the team opted to acquire solid veterans and draft picks for their two stars. Kyrie will try figuring things out in Dallas, while KD has yet another super team around him in Phoenix. After the trade Mikal Bridges stepped up as the face of the franchise, showing he is also a star offensive talent while being a DPOY level defender. Dorian Finney-Smith, Cam Johnson, and Spencer Dinwiddie all return as assets the team brought in that they will rely on.
The one lingering piece is Ben Simmons, who averaged 6/6/6 last year after missing practically all of ’21-’22. The ball is now in his court to turn his career around and become the star he looked like he would be, with playing time redily available with this Brooklyn team. Lonnie Walker, Darius Bazley, Dennis Smith Jr., and Trendon Watford were all signed and will be good depth pieces off of the bench. This team is not nearly as competitive as the Celtics, Knicks, or Sixers in their division. Best case scenario: we’re talking about a high end play-in team, worst case: they miss the playoffs altogether.
New York Knicks
HC: Tom Thibodeau
4th year in NYK, Career record: 477-357, Team record: 125-111, Playoff record: 31-41 – AGE: 65
| POS. | NO. | STARTERS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C | #23 | Mitchell Robinson | 7’0 | 240 lbs W. Kentucky | Age: 25 | 7.4 pts, 9.4 reb, 1.8 blk, 0.9 stl 67.1% FG |
| PF | #30 | Julius Randle | 6’8 | 250 lbs Kentucky | Age: 28 | 25.1 pts, 10 reb, 4.1 ast, 0.6 stl 34.3% 3P |
| SG/SF | #9 | R.J. Barrett | 6’6 | 214 lbs Duke | Age: 23 | 19.6 pts, 5 reb, 2.8 ast, 0.4 stl 31% 3P |
| SG | #0 | Donte DiVincenzo | 6’4 | 203 lbs Villanova | Age: 26 | 9.4 pts, 4.5 reb, 3.5 ast, 1.3 stl 39.7% 3P – (GSW) |
| PG | #11 | Jalen Brunson | 6’1 | 190 lbs Villanova | Age: 27 | 24 pts, 6.2 ast, 3.5 reb, 0.9 stl 41.6% 3P |
| POS. | NO. | BENCH | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SG/SF | #3 | Josh Hart | 6’4 | 215 lbs Villanova | Age: 28 | 9.8 pts, 7.8 reb, 3.8 ast, 1.2 stl 37.2% 3P – (POR/NYK) |
| PG | #5 | Immanuel Quickley | 6’3 | 190 lbs Kentucky | Age: 24 | 14.9 pts, 4.2 reb, 3.4 ast, 1 stl 37% 3P |
| SF | #6 | Quentin Grimes | 6’4 | 210 lbs Houston | Age: 23 | 11.3 pts, 3.2 reb, 2.1 ast, 0.7 stl 38.6% 3P |
| C | #55 | Isaiah Hartenstein | 7’0 | 250 lbs Germany | Age: 25 | 5 pts, 6.5 reb, 1.2 ast, 0.8 blk 0.6 stl |
| C | #45 | Jericho Sims | 6’9 | 250 lbs Texas | Age: 24 | 3.4 pts, 4.7 reb, 0.5 blk, 0.5 ast 77.6% FG |
| PG | #2 | Miles McBride | 6’2 | 195 lbs West Virginia | Age: 23 | 3.5 pts, 1.1 ast, 0.8 reb, 0.6 stl 35.8% FG |
| SG/SF | #13 | Evan Fournier | 6’6 | 205 lbs France | Age: 30 | 6.1 pts, 1.8 reb, 1.3 ast, 0.6 stl 30.7% 3P |
| PG | #51 | Ryan Arcidiacono | 6’3 | 195 lbs Villanova | Age: 29 | 20 GP, 1.3 pts, 1.2 ast, 0.8 reb 34.8% 3P – (NYK/POR) |
| SG | #8 | DaQuan Jeffries | 6’5 | 222 lbs Tulsa | Age: 26 | DNP – Played in G-League |
| SG | #20 | Dylan Windler | 6’7 | 196 lbs Belmont | Age: 27 | 3 GP, 1.7 pts, 0.3 ast, 0.3 stl 50% 3P – (CLE) |
| POS. | NO. | TWO-WAY CONTRACTS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SG | #31 | Charlie Brown Jr. | 6’6 | 190 lbs St. Joseph’s | Age: 26 | DNP – Played in G-League |
| SF | #00 | Jacob Toppin (R) | 6’9 | 204 lbs Kentucky | Age: 23 | UNDRAFTED in 2023 |
| G | Duane Washington Jr. | 6’2 | 197 lbs Ohio State | Age: 23 | 7.9 pts, 2 ast, 1.2 reb, 0.2 stl 36% 3P – (PHX) |
PAUL’S THOUGHTS:
Projected Record: 48-34, 4th in EAST
MVP: PG Jalen Brunson
X-Factor: SF R.J. Barrett
ADD: SG Donte DiVincenzo
LOSS: PF Obi Toppin (IND)
Grade: B
The Knicks come off of a season that was only filled with positives, going 47-35, winning a playoff series for the first time since ’12-’13, Julius Randle returning to the all-star game, and Jalen Brunson developing into the franchise cornerstone. Now in year 4 of the Thibs era, another step forward will be needed to keep the momentum going on a positive future. Josh Hart turned the team around when he was acquired at the deadline from Portland, and the Knicks locked him and his Villanova teammate Donte DiVincenzo to 4-year contracts. The Knicks now have four members of Villanova’s 2016 championship team.
My biggest wonder this season will be the continued development of R.J. Barrett, who is now entering the fifth year of his NBA career. He has shown the potential to be a franchise star, but his shooting splits continue to underwhelm. With Randle and Brunson being the top two options, R.J. did seem a little more comfortable playing as a 3rd or 4th piece which is most likely what he will be in the NBA. Also with a ton of first round picks still stacked up and a few intriguing NBA veterans, a deal for a star player still can’t be ruled out. But again this has been all of the talk for years now and I don’t anticipate a move like that happening soon. It’s not far fetched that this team’s ceiling could be the Eastern Conference Finals, but as Knicks fans know, cautious optimism is needed.
Philadelphia 76ers
HC: Nick Nurse
1st year in PHI, Career record: 227-163, Playoff record: 25-16 – AGE: 56
| POS. | NO. | STARTERS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C | #21 | Joel Embiid | 7’0 | 280 lbs Kansas | Age: 29 | 33.1 pts, 10.2 reb, 4.2 ast, 1.7 blk 1 stl |
| F | #17 | P.J. Tucker | 6’5 | 245 lbs Texas | Age: 38 | 3.5 pts, 3.9 reb, 0.8 ast, 0.5 stl 39.3% 3P |
| SF | #12 | Tobias Harris | 6’7 | 226 lbs Tennessee | Age: 31 | 14.7 pts, 5.7 reb, 2.5 ast, 0.9 stl 38.9% 3P |
| G | #8 | De’Anthony Melton | 6’2 | 200 lbs USC | Age: 25 | 10.1 pts, 4.1 reb, 2.6 ast, 1.6 stl 39% 3P |
| G | #0 | Tyrese Maxey | 6’2 | 200 lbs Kentucky | Age: 22 | 20.3 pts, 3.5 ast, 2.9 reb, 0.8 stl 43.4% 3P |
| POS. | NO. | BENCH | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PG | #22 | Patrick Beverley | 6’2 | 180 lbs Arkansas | Age: 35 | 6.2 pts, 3.7 reb, 2.9 ast, 0.9 stl 33.5% 3P – (LAL/CHI) |
| SG/SF | #9 | Kelly Oubre Jr. | 6’6 | 203 lbs Kansas | Age: 27 | 20.3 pts, 5.2 reb, 1.4 stl, 1.1 ast 0.4 blk – (CHA) |
| SF | #25 | Danuel House Jr. | 6’6 | 220 lbs Texas A&M | Age: 30 | 4.8 pts, 1.7 reb, 0.8 ast, 0.3 stl 33.6% 3P |
| PF | #44 | Paul Reed | 6’9 | 210 lbs DePaul | Age: 24 | 4.2 pts, 3.8 reb, 0.7 blk, 0.7 stl 59.3% FG |
| SF | #30 | Furkan Korkmaz | 6’7 | 202 lbs Turkey | Age: 26 | 3.8 pts, 1.1 reb, 0.6 ast, 0.3 stl 39.1% 3P |
| SG | #14 | Danny Green | 6’6 | 215 lbs North Carolina | Age: 36 | 11 GP, 5.5 pts, 1.3 reb, 0.5 stl 43.2% 3P – (MEM/CLE) |
| C | #7 | Mo Bamba | 7’0 | 231 lbs Texas | Age: 25 | 6.6 pts, 4.6 reb, 0.9 blk, 0.9 ast 38.7% 3P – (ORL/LAL) |
| PF/C | #33 | Filip Petrušev (R) | 6’11 | 234 lbs Gonzaga | Age: 23 | DRAFTED: 50th overall in 2021 |
| SG | #11 | Jaden Springer | 6’4 | 205 lbs Tennessee | Age: 21 | 16 GP, 2.6 pts, 0.9 reb, 0.5 ast 40% 3P |
| G | #1 | James Harden* (O) | 6’5 | 220 lbs Arizona State | Age: 34 | 21 pts, 10.7 ast, 6.1 reb, 1.2 stl 38.5% 3P |
| POS. | NO. | TWO-WAY CONTRACTS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G | #39 | Javonte Smart | 6’4 | 205 lbs LSU | Age: 24 | DNP – Played in G-League |
| G | #23 | Terquavion Smith (R) | 6’4 | 165 lbs NC State | Age: 20 | UNDRAFTED in 2023 |
| PF | #20 | Ažuolas Tubelis (R) | 6’11 | 245 lbs Arizona | Age: 21 | UNDRAFTED in 2023 |
*James Harden continues to sit out indefinitely after requesting a trade
PAUL’S THOUGHTS:
Projected Record: 47-35, 5th in EAST
MVP: C Joel Embiid
X-Factor: PG Tyrese Maxey
ADD: PG Patrick Beverley
LOSS: PF Jalen McDaniels (TOR)
Grade: B-
After another disappointing playoff run, the Sixers had a busy offseason trying to change things up with a core that wasn’t working. Doc Rivers was let go and replaced by Nick Nurse who was surprisingly fired from Toronto in his fifth year there. His championship resume is one that Daryl Morey and staff will hope turns the team around. The other matter at hand was James Harden who (as of now) remains with the team despite requesting yet another trade. The Sixers look like they will go into the season with Harden riding the bench, while trying to land a trade partner for the future HOF.
With Harden on the way out, this leaves 2023 MVP Joel Embiid without a star running mate. With Damian Lillard on the Bucks, the dominance of the Heat and Celtics, and several other foes in the East, the Sixers don’t seem to be a favorite to change their playoff woes. A lot of emphasis is going to be put on Tyrese Maxey, who is not only playing for a max contract, but will also become the team’s second option. Veterans Patrick Beverley, Kelly Oubre, and Danny Green will add depth to the bench while Harris, Tucker, and Melton should round out the starting lineup. Getting a star return for Harden is really what is the difference between them being a let down and a title contender. Another quick playoff exit could force them to let Maxey walk in free agency and shop Embiid to start over yet another rebuild.
Toronto Raptors
HC: Darko Rajaković
1st year – AGE: 44
| POS. | NO. | STARTERS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C | #19 | Jakob Poeltl | 7’1 | 245 lbs Utah | Age: 27 | 12.5 pts, 9.1 reb, 2.7 ast, 1.2 blk 62.9% FG – (SAS/TOR) |
| PF/C | #43 | Pascal Siakam | 6’8 | 230 lbs New Mexico State | Age: 29 | 24.2 pts, 7.8 reb, 5.8 ast, 0.9 stl 32.4% 3P |
| SF | #3 | OG Anunoby | 6’7 | 232 lbs Indiana | Age: 26 | 16.8 pts, 5 reb, 2 ast, 1.9 stl 38.7% 3P |
| G/SF | #4 | Scottie Barnes | 6’8 | 225 lbs Florida State | Age: 22 | 15.3 pts, 6.6 reb, 4.8 ast, 1.1 stl 0.8 blk |
| PG | #17 | Dennis Schröder | 6’1 | 172 lbs Germany | Age: 30 | 12.6 pts, 4.5 ast, 2.5 reb, 0.8 stl 32.9% 3P – (LAL) |
| POS. | NO. | BENCH | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SG | #33 | Gary Trent Jr. | 6’5 | 209 lbs Duke | Age: 24 | 17.4 pts, 2.6 reb, 1.6 ast, 1.6 stl 36.9% 3P |
| PF/C | #5 | Precious Achiuwa | 6’8 | 225 lbs Memphis | Age: 24 | 9.2 pts, 6 reb, 0.9 ast, 0.6 stl 0.5 blk |
| SF | #1 | Gradey Dick (R) | 6’8 | 205 lbs Kansas | Age: 19 | DRAFTED: 13th overall by TOR |
| C | #25 | Chris Boucher | 6’9 | 200 lbs Oregon | Age: 30 | 9.4 pts, 5.5 reb, 0.8 blk, 0.6 stl 32.8% 3P |
| PG | #22 | Malachi Flynn | 6’1 | 175 lbs San Diego State | Age: 25 | 4.6 pts, 1.4 reb, 1.3 ast, 0.4 stl 35.3% 3P |
| PF/C | #2 | Jalen McDaniels | 6’9 | 205 lbs San Diego State | Age: 25 | 9.4 pts, 4.3 reb, 1.6 ast, 1 stl 33.2% 3P – (CHA/PHI) |
| SG/SF | #14 | Garrett Temple | 6’5 | 195 lbs LSU | Age: 37 | 2 pts, 0.7 reb, 0.5 ast, 0.4 stl 42.3% 3P – (NOP) |
| F | #21 | Thaddeus Young | 6’8 | 235 lbs Georgia Tech | Age: 35 | 4.4 pts, 3.1 reb, 1.4 ast, 1 stl 54.5% FG |
| SF | #32 | Otto Porter Jr. | 6’8 | 198 lbs Georgetown | Age: 30 | 8 GP, 5.5 pts, 2.4 reb, 1.4 stl 1 ast |
| C | #35 | Christian Koloko | 7’0 | 230 lbs Arizona | Age: 23 | 3.1 pts, 2.9 reb, 1 blk, 0.5 ast 0.4 stl |
| POS. | NO. | TWO-WAY CONTRACTS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| F | #8 | Ron Harper Jr. | 6’5 | 245 lbs Rutgers | Age: 23 | 9 GP, 2.2 pts, 0.8 reb, 0.4 ast 50% FG |
| PG | #24 | Markquis Nowell (R) | 5’8 | 160 lbs Kansas State | Age: 23 | UNDRAFTED in 2023 |
| SG | #00 | Javon Freeman-Liberty (R) | 6’4 | 200 lbs DePaul | Age: 23 | UNDRAFTED in 2022 |
PAUL’S THOUGHTS:
Projected Record: 34-48, 12th in EAST
MVP: PF Pascal Siakam
X-Factor: SF Scottie Barnes
ADD: PG Dennis Schroder
LOSS: PG Fred VanVleet (HOU)
Grade: C
The Raptors saw some huge changes this offseason with their HC and star guard both leaving. As I said earlier, Nick Nurse was let go and will now take over the Sixers, while Fred VanVleet signed a crazy deal with the Rockets. At 3-years and $130m, I’m not surprise Toronto let their star playmaker go, but it will undoubtedly leave a big hole in the roster. Veteran Dennis Schroder was brought in to fill the void, while Malachi Flynn should see increased time as the backup. Siakam, Anunoby, and Poeltl will remain the frontcourt with Achiuwa, Boucher, McDaniels, Young, and Porter giving plenty of depth.
Rookie lottery pick Gradey Dick has a wide open chance to become a starting wing, as we may see a transition of Scottie Barnes to the PG spot now with VanVleet gone. And entering his third year, Barnes has shown plenty of promise to be a dynamic 6’8 guard who can run the offense, something that the team lacks with their insane amount of depth in the frontcourt. I think this Raptors team is good, but not great, and it’ll be interesting to see how Darko Rajakovic adjusts to his first career Head Coaching gig. This team is a play-in competitor, but not much more. Their division will also be extremely tough to navigate, having to play the Knicks, Celtics, Sixers, and Nets a total of 16 times in their 82 games.
Chicago Bulls
HC: Billy Donovan
4th year in CHI, Career record: 360-279, Team record: 117-119, Playoff record: 19-27 – AGE: 58
| POS. | NO. | STARTERS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C | #9 | Nikola Vučević | 6’10 | 260 lbs USC | Age: 32 | 17.6 pts, 11 reb, 3.2 ast, 0.7 blk 34.9% 3P |
| PF | #44 | Patrick Williams | 6’7 | 215 lbs Florida State | Age: 22 | 10.2 pts, 4 reb, 1.2 ast, 0.9 stl 41.5% 3P |
| SF | #11 | DeMar DeRozan | 6’6 | 220 lbs USC | Age: 34 | 24.5 pts, 5.1 ast, 4.6 reb, 1.1 stl 50.4% FG |
| SG | #8 | Zach LaVine | 6’5 | 200 lbs UCLA | Age: 28 | 24.8 pts, 4.5 reb, 4.2 ast, 0.9 stl 37.5% 3P |
| PG | #0 | Coby White | 6’5 | 195 lbs North Carolina | Age: 23 | 9.7 pts, 2.9 reb, 2.8 ast, 0.7 stl 37.2% 3P |
| POS. | NO. | BENCH | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SG | #6 | Alex Caruso | 6’5 | 186 lbs Texas A&M | Age: 29 | 5.6 pts, 2.9 reb, 2.9 ast, 1.5 stl 36.4% 3P |
| F | #13 | Torrey Craig | 6’7 | 221 lbs SC-Upstate | Age: 32 | 7.4 pts, 5.4 reb, 1.5 ast, 0.8 blk 39.5% 3P – (PHX) |
| G | #12 | Ayo Dosunmu | 6’5 | 200 lbs Illinois | Age: 23 | 8.6 pts, 2.8 reb, 2.6 ast, 0.8 stl 49.3% FG |
| C | #3 | Andre Drummond | 6’11 | 279 lbs UConn | Age: 30 | 6 pts, 6.6 reb, 0.7 stl, 0.5 ast 60.6% FG |
| PG | #5 | Jevon Carter | 6’1 | 200 lbs West Virginia | Age: 28 | 8 pts, 2.5 reb, 2.4 ast, 0.8 stl 42.1% 3P – (MIL) |
| F | #25 | Dalen Terry | 6’7 | 200 lbs Arizona | Age: 21 | 2.2 pts, 1 reb, 0.6 ast, 0.3 stl 44.4% FG |
| SF | #15 | Julian Phillips (R) | 6’8 | 197 lbs Tennessee | Age: 19 | DRAFTED: 35th overall by BOS |
| F | #32 | Terry Taylor | 6’4 | 230 lbs Austin Peay | Age: 24 | 2.9 pts, 1.5 reb, 0.3 ast, 0.2 blk 52% FG |
| PG | #2 | Lonzo Ball* (I) | 6’6 | 190 lbs UCLA | Age: 26 | DNP – Injured |
| POS. | NO. | TWO-WAY CONTRACTS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SF | #34 | Justin Lewis (R) | 6’7 | 245 lbs Marquette | Age: 21 | DNP – Played in G-League |
| C | #21 | Adama Sanogo (R) | 6’9 | 258 lbs UConn | Age: 21 | UNDRAFTED in 2023 |
| SF | #17 | Onuralp Bitim (R) | 6’6 | 215 lbs Turkey | Age: 24 | UNDRAFTED in 2021 |
*Lonzo Ball continues to rehab multiple leg injuries and will miss the entire season
PAUL’S THOUGHTS:
Projected Record: 36-46, 11th in EAST
MVP: SF DeMar DeRozan
X-Factor: PG Coby White
ADD: SF Torrey Craig
LOSS: PG Patrick Beverley (PHI)
Grade: C+
The Bulls enter the season as one of the biggest wild cards in the Eastern Conference. Nikola Vucevic, who signed a 3-year extension this offseason, went on record to say this may be the last chance this core has to compete together. It’s not very far fetched as DeMar DeRozan is set to hit free agency and the constant Zach LaVine trade rumors may come into fruition with another down year. Lonzo Ball is slated to miss the entirety of a second season in a row with leg injuries that some think may be career ending. The rest of the team though is healthy, with Coby White and Ayo Dosunmu brought back as well as Jevon Carter who signed for even more PG depth. The starting PG spot can go to any one of these three.
Torrey Craig was also brought in to aid the bench and Andre Drummond should continue to be a great backup for the score-first Vucevic. I think this Bulls team is all-around solid, and as I thought last year, they should be a playoff team. That just simply did not come true a year ago, but this time around I like their odds to make it to the play-in round as a hosting team. Milwaukee and Cleveland still remain the powerhouses of the division, but the Bulls should make a run and play some good ball if they all stay healthy.
Cleveland Cavaliers
HC: J.B. Bickerstaff
5th year in CLE, Career record: 207-256, Team record: 122-125, Playoff record: 2-8 – AGE: 44
| POS. | NO. | STARTERS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C | #31 | Jarrett Allen | 6’9 | 243 lbs Texas | Age: 25 | 14.3 pts, 9.8 reb, 1.7 ast, 1.2 blk 64.4% FG |
| PF | #4 | Evan Mobley | 6’11 | 215 lbs USC | Age: 22 | 16.2 pts, 9 reb, 2.8 ast, 1.5 blk 55.4% FG |
| SF | #1 | Max Strus | 6’5 | 215 lbs DePaul | Age: 27 | 11.5 pts, 3.2 reb, 2.1 ast, 0.5 stl 35% 3P – (MIA) |
| SG | #45 | Donovan Mitchell | 6’1 | 215 lbs Louisville | Age: 27 | 28.3 pts, 4.4 ast, 4.3 reb, 1.5 stl 38.6% 3P |
| PG | #10 | Darius Garland | 6’1 | 192 lbs Vanderbilt | Age: 23 | 21.6 pts, 7.8 ast, 2.7 reb, 1.2 stl 41% 3P |
| POS. | NO. | BENCH | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SG | #3 | Caris LeVert | 6’6 | 205 lbs Michigan | Age: 29 | 12.1 pts, 3.9 ast, 3.8 reb, 1 stl 39.2% 3P |
| SF | #20 | Georges Niang | 6’7 | 230 lbs Iowa State | Age: 30 | 8.2 pts, 2.4 reb, 1 ast, 0.4 stl 40.1% 3P – (PHI) |
| F | #32 | Dean Wade | 6’9 | 228 lbs Kansas State | Age: 26 | 4.7 pts, 3.4 reb, 0.8 ast, 0.6 stl 35.4% 3P |
| SF | #35 | Isaac Okoro | 6’5 | 225 lbs Auburn | Age: 22 | 6.4 pts, 2.5 reb, 1.1 ast, 0.7 stl 36.3% 3P |
| C | #12 | Tristan Thompson | 6’9 | 254 lbs Texas | Age: 32 | DNP – Free Agent |
| G | #2 | Ty Jerome | 6’5 | 195 lbs Virginia | Age: 26 | 6.9 pts, 3 ast, 1.7 reb, 0.5 stl 38.9% 3P – (GSW) |
| SG | #5 | Sam Merrill | 6’4 | 205 lbs Utah State | Age: 27 | 5 GP, 5 pts, 1.8 reb, 1 ast 0.8 stl |
| C | #30 | Damian Jones | 6’11 | 245 lbs Vanderbilt | Age: 28 | 3.5 pts, 3 reb, 0.5 blk, 0.4 ast 64% FG – (LAL/UTA) |
| PG | #13 | Ricky Rubio* (O) | 6’2 | 190 lbs Spain | Age: 32 | 5.2 pts, 3.5 ast, 2.1 reb, 0.8 stl 0.2 blk |
| POS. | NO. | TWO-WAY CONTRACTS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| F | #15 | Isaiah Mobley | 6’8 | 238 lbs USC | Age: 24 | 12 GP, 2.6 pts, 1.7 reb, 0.3 ast 37.5% 3P |
| SG/SF | #21 | Emoni Bates (R) | 6’10 | 170 lbs Eastern Michigan | Age: 19 | DRAFTED: 49th overall by CLE |
| PG | #9 | Craig Porter Jr. (R) | 6’2 | 186 lbs Wichita State | Age: 23 | UNDRAFTED in 2023 |
*Ricky Rubio has taken time off to address mental health issues and is out indefinitely
PAUL’S THOUGHTS:
Projected Record: 46-36, 6th in EAST
MVP: SG Donovan Mitchell
X-Factor: PG Darius Garland
ADD: SF Max Strus
LOSS: SF Cedi Osman (SAS)
Grade: B
After a breakout season in ’21-’22, the Cavs brought in Donovan Mitchell and subsequently was a first round exit this past year. The one knock on Mitchell throughout his career is his inability to make it far in the playoffs, even in his time in Utah. This year will be pivotal for Cleveland to prove they are a legitimate contender in the East. Evan Mobley developed into a DPOY talent in his second year in the league, while Darius Garland was a bit inconsistent after coming off of his first all-star season. Max Strus was one of the biggest stories of the postseason, and the Cavs awarded him with a 3-year deal to give them more shooting depth at the wing. Ty Jerome and Georges Niang were also signed in even more of an emphasis to become a better 3-point shooting team.
Mitchell has been non-committal to signing an extension with Cleveland, as he has another year left plus a player option that he will most likely decline. With all going right this team can definitely make it to the Eastern Conference Finals, but that’s just about their ceiling, similar to what I think of the Knicks. They brought in a couple of very solid pieces but being in the same class as the Bucks, Celtics, or Heat I just don’t see. Similar to Mitchell’s teams in Utah, they are good but just not good enough to be a title contender.
Detroit Pistons
HC: Monty Williams
1st year in DET, Career record: 367-336, Playoff record: 29-27 – AGE: 52
| POS. | NO. | STARTERS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C | #0 | Jalen Duren | 6’11 | 250 lbs Memphis | Age: 19 | 9.1 pts, 8.9 reb, 1.1 ast, 0.9 blk 64.8% FG |
| PF/C | #28 | Isaiah Stewart | 6’8 | 250 lbs Washington | Age: 22 | 11.3 pts, 8.1 reb, 1.4 ast, 0.7 blk 0.4 stl |
| F | #44 | Bojan Bogdanović | 6’7 | 226 lbs Croatia | Age: 34 | 21.6 pts, 3.8 reb, 2.6 ast, 0.6 stl 41.1% 3P |
| G | #23 | Jaden Ivey | 6’4 | 195 lbs Purdue | Age: 21 | 16.3 pts, 5.2 ast, 3.9 reb, 0.8 stl 34.3% 3P |
| PG | #2 | Cade Cunningham | 6’7 | 220 lbs Oklahoma State | Age: 22 | 12 GP, 19.9 pts, 6.2 reb, 6 ast 0.8 stl |
| POS. | NO. | BENCH | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SG | #9 | Ausar Thompson (R) | 6’7 | 190 lbs Overtime Elite | Age: 20 | DRAFTED: 5th overall by DET |
| PF | #35 | Marvin Bagley III | 6’10 | 235 lbs Duke | Age: 24 | 12 pts, 6.4 reb, 0.9 ast, 0.7 blk 52.9% FG |
| SF | #31 | Joe Harris | 6’6 | 220 lbs Virginia | Age: 32 | 7.6 pts, 2.2 reb, 1.4 ast, 0.5 stl 42.6% 3P – (BKN) |
| PG | #5 | Monte Morris | 6’2 | 183 lbs Iowa State | Age: 28 | 10.3 pts, 5.3 ast, 3.4 reb, 0.7 stl 38.2% 3P – (WSH) |
| C | #13 | James Wiseman | 7’0 | 240 lbs Memphis | Age: 22 | 10 pts, 5.9 reb, 0.7 ast, 0.6 blk 55.8% FG – (GSW/DET) |
| PG | #7 | Killian Hayes | 6’5 | 195 lbs France | Age: 22 | 10.3 pts, 6.2 ast, 2.9 reb, 1.4 stl 0.4 blk |
| F | #12 | Isaiah Livers | 6’6 | 232 lbs Michigan | Age: 25 | 6.7 pts, 2.8 reb, 0.8 ast, 0.5 blk 36.5% 3P |
| G | #14 | Alec Burks | 6’6 | 214 lbs Colorado | Age: 32 | 12.8 pts, 3.1 reb, 2.2 ast, 0.7 stl 41.4% 3P |
| PG | #25 | Marcus Sasser (R) | 6’2 | 195 lbs Houston | Age: 23 | DRAFTED: 25th overall by MEM |
| POS. | NO. | TWO-WAY CONTRACTS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G | #8 | Jared Rhoden | 6’6 | 210 lbs Seton Hall | Age: 24 | 14 GP, 3.2 pts, 2.6 reb, 0.3 ast 0.3 stl |
| SG | #20 | Malcolm Cazalon (R) | 6’6 | 185 lbs France | Age: 22 | UNDRAFTED in 2023 |
| SG | #17 | Stanley Umude | 6’6 | 210 lbs Arkansas | Age: 24 | 1 GP, 2 pts, 1 stl, 1 blk |
PAUL’S THOUGHTS:
Projected Record: 30-52, 13th in EAST
MVP: PG Cade Cunningham
X-Factor: PG Cade Cunningham
ADD: SG Ausar Thompson
LOSS: SG Hamidou Diallo (FA)
Grade: C-
After another disappointing season, the Pistons saw the young talent they had and decided it was time to bring in heavy artillery. Monty Williams was given the biggest contract for an NBA HC in history, over 6 years, to lead Detroit back into relevance. He will have his work cut out for him, with plenty of raw ingredients that the front office hopes can be cooked into a delicacy. Cade Cunningham was injured for almost the entirety of his sophomore season, and he will be looked on to be the piece to build around. Marvin Bagley, James Wiseman, and Jalen Duren were all former top draft picks that the team hopes at least one will develop into a star big man. Isaiah Stewart was also re-upped and Jaden Ivey is coming off of a very impressive rookie season.
A few veterans still remain as well, in Bojan Bogdanovic who led the team in scoring a season ago, Alec Burks who’s team option was exercised, sharp-shooting Joe Harris, and Monte Morris. This is point blank a very weird roster, and one that gives you some hope that the team can win some big games, but also makes you wonder who the minutes are going to come from. A few of these guys will get abandoned on the depth chart, and that’s going to be the task of their new $16m/year head coach. I don’t think the Pistons are much of a playoff team this year, I’m more intrigued to see the development of their plethora of young talent.
Indiana Pacers
HC: Rick Carlisle
3rd year in IND (second stint), Career record: 896-793, Team record: 60-104, Playoff record: 63-70 – AGE: 64
| POS. | NO. | STARTERS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C | #33 | Myles Turner | 6’11 | 250 lbs Texas | Age: 27 | 18 pts, 7.5 reb, 2.3 blk, 1.4 ast 37.3% 3P |
| PF | #5 | Jarace Walker (R) | 6’8 | 240 lbs Houston | Age: 20 | DRAFTED: 8th overall by WSH |
| SG/SF | #11 | Bruce Brown | 6’4 | 202 lbs Miami | Age: 27 | 11.5 pts, 4.1 reb, 3.4 ast, 1.1 stl 35.8% 3P – (DEN) |
| SG | #00 | Bennedict Mathurin | 6’6 | 195 lbs Arizona | Age: 21 | 16.7 pts, 4.1 reb, 1.5 ast, 0.6 stl 32.3% 3P |
| PG | #0 | Tyrese Haliburton | 6’5 | 185 lbs Iowa State | Age: 23 | 20.7 pts, 10.4 ast, 3.7 reb, 1.6 stl 40% 3P |
| POS. | NO. | BENCH | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SG | #7 | Buddy Hield | 6’4 | 220 lbs Oklahoma | Age: 30 | 16.8 pts, 5 reb, 2.8 ast, 1.2 stl 42.5% 3P |
| SG/SF | #23 | Aaron Nesmith | 6’5 | 215 lbs Vanderbilt | Age: 25 | 10.1 pts, 3.8 reb, 1.3 ast, 0.8 stl 36.6% 3P |
| PG | #2 | Andrew Nembhard | 6’5 | 193 lbs Gonzaga | Age: 23 | 9.5 pts, 4.5 ast, 2.7 reb, 0.9 stl 35% 3P |
| PG | #9 | T.J. McConnell | 6’1 | 190 lbs Arizona | Age: 31 | 8.7 pts, 5.3 ast, 3.1 reb, 1.1 stl 44.1% 3P |
| PF | #1 | Obi Toppin | 6’9 | 220 lbs Dayton | Age: 25 | 7.4 pts, 2.8 reb, 1 ast, 0.3 stl 34.4% 3P – (NYK) |
| SF | #13 | Jordan Nwora | 6’8 | 225 lbs Louisville | Age: 25 | 8.7 pts, 3.7 reb, 1.4 ast, 0.4 stl 40.8% 3P – (MIL/IND) |
| PF/C | #25 | Jalen Smith | 6’9 | 215 lbs Maryland | Age: 23 | 9.4 pts, 5.8 reb, 1 ast, 0.9 blk 47.6% FG |
| SG | #26 | Ben Sheppard (R) | 6’6 | 190 lbs Belmont | Age: 22 | DRAFTED: 26th overall by IND |
| F | #22 | Isaiah Jackson | 6’10 | 206 lbs Kentucky | Age: 21 | 7.2 pts, 4.5 reb, 1.5 blk, 0.8 ast 56.3% FG |
| C | #27 | Daniel Theis | 6’8 | 245 lbs Germany | Age: 31 | 7 GP, 7 pts, 3.1 reb, 1.3 ast 0.9 blk |
| POS. | NO. | TWO-WAY CONTRACTS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SG/SF | #10 | Kendall Brown | 6’8 | 205 lbs Baylor | Age: 20 | 6 GP, 1.5 pts, 1 reb, 0.7 stl 57.1% FG |
| PG | #21 | Isaiah Wong (R) | 6’4 | 184 lbs Miami | Age: 22 | DRAFTED: 55th overall by IND |
| C | #44 | Oscar Tshiebwe (R) | 6’9 | 260 lbs Kentucky | Age: 23 | UNDRAFTED in 2023 |
PAUL’S THOUGHTS:
Projected Record: 43-39, 8th in EAST
MVP: PG Tyrese Haliburton
X-Factor: SG Bennedict Mathurin
ADD: SF Bruce Brown
LOSS: SF Oshae Brissett (BOS)
Grade: C+
In a bit of a let down season, the Pacers underperformed while having a bunch of things to be thankful for. Tyrese Haliburton has developed into one of the best PG’s in the league, and became an all-star for the first time. Myles Turner was also extended, which finally will put an end to all of the trade rumors surrounding him over the past few years. Bennedict Mathurin also had a great rookie year, and as I was high on him out of college, I’m excited to see his continued development. With their lottery pick they tanked for they also brought in Jarace Walker, a gritty dirty work paint presence that should compliment Turner well. And after signing Bruce Brown, they are developing one of the more feared frontcourts in the league.
This time around I think things will be different for the Pacers. Rick Carlisle is a fantastic Head Coach and the young core is very well put together. Adding Obi Toppin and a veteran like Bruce Brown should further help develop their core of young talent. I’m a fan of the Pacers, the major thing will be their development on the defensive end. A lot of their core besides Turner are defensively inept. I’m a fan of them being one of the surprises of the East this year.
Milwaukee Bucks
HC: Adrian Griffin
1st year – AGE: 49
| POS. | NO. | STARTERS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C | #11 | Brook Lopez | 7’0 | 282 lbs Stanford | Age: 35 | 15.9 pts, 6.7 reb, 2.5 blk, 1.3 ast 37.4% 3P |
| PF | #34 | Giannis Antetokounmpo | 6’11 | 243 lbs Greece | Age: 28 | 31.8 pts, 11.8 reb, 5.7 ast, 0.8 stl 0.8 blk |
| SF | #22 | Khris Middleton | 6’7 | 222 lbs Texas A&M | Age: 32 | 15.1 pts, 4.2 ast, 4.3 reb, 0.7 stl 31.5% 3P |
| SG | #24 | Pat Connaughton | 6’5 | 209 lbs Notre Dame | Age: 30 | 7.6 pts, 4.6 reb, 1.3 ast, 0.6 stl 33.9% 3P |
| PG | #0 | Damian Lillard | 6’2 | 195 lbs Weber State | Age: 33 | 32.2 pts, 7.3 ast, 4.8 reb, 0.9 stl 37.1% 3P – (POR) |
| POS. | NO. | BENCH | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PF/C | #9 | Bobby Portis | 6’10 | 250 lbs Arkansas | Age: 28 | 14.1 pts, 9.6 reb, 1.5 ast, 0.4 stl 37% 3P |
| SF | #3 | MarJon Beauchamp | 6’7 | 202 lbs G-League | Age: 22 | 5.1 pts, 2.2 reb, 0.7 ast, 0.4 stl 33.1% 3P |
| PG | #15 | Cameron Payne | 6’1 | 183 lbs Murray State | Age: 29 | 10.3 pts, 4.5 ast, 2.2 reb, 0.7 stl 36.8% 3P – (PHX) |
| SG | #5 | Malik Beasley | 6’4 | 187 lbs Florida State | Age: 26 | 12.7 pts, 3.5 reb, 1.5 ast, 0.8 stl 35.7% 3P – (UTA/LAL) |
| C | #33 | Robin Lopez | 7’0 | 281 lbs Stanford | Age: 35 | 3 pts, 1.4 reb, 0.5 ast, 0.2 blk 64% FG – (CLE) |
| F | #99 | Jae Crowder | 6’6 | 235 lbs Marquette | Age: 33 | 18 GP, 6.9 pts, 3.8 reb, 1.5 ast 43.6% 3P |
| G | #44 | Andre Jackson Jr. (R) | 6’6 | 200 lbs UConn | Age: 21 | DRAFTED: 36th overall by ORL |
| SG | #20 | A.J. Green | 6’5 | 207 lbs Northern Iowa | Age: 24 | 4.4 pts, 1.3 reb, 0.6 ast, 0.2 stl 41.9% 3P |
| F | #43 | Thanasis Antetokounmpo | 6’7 | 219 lbs Greece | Age: 31 | 1.4 pts, 1.2 reb, 0.4 ast, 0.1 blk 0.1 stl |
| F | #7 | Chris Livingston (R) | 6’6 | 220 lbs Kentucky | Age: 19 | DRAFTED: 58th overall by MIL |
| POS. | NO. | TWO-WAY CONTRACTS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PG | #23 | TyTy Washington Jr. | 6’3 | 195 lbs Kentucky | Age: 21 | 4.7 pts, 1.5 reb, 1.5 ast, 0.5 stl 0.1 blk – (HOU) |
| G | #28 | Lindell Wiggington | 6’1 | 189 lbs Iowa State | Age: 25 | 7 GP, 7.1 pts, 2 ast, 1 reb 33.3% 3P |
| PF/C | #12 | Marques Bolden | 6’10 | 249 lbs Duke | Age: 25 | DNP – Played in G-League |
PAUL’S THOUGHTS:
Projected Record: 58-24, 3rd in EAST
MVP: SF Giannis Antetokounmpo
X-Factor: PG Damian Lillard
ADD: PG Damian Lillard
LOSS: PG Jrue Holiday (BOS)
Grade: A
The sotry of the offseason changed drastically just before the season as the Suns now have strong contention for the most stacked roster in the league. The Damian Lillard trade finally happened as he was dealt to the Bucks in exchange for several players and a couple of draft picks. Grayson Allen was sent to Phoenix while their big loss was Jrue Holiday who was re-directed to the Celtics. Although losing a fan favorite like Jrue, the Bucks are going all in to win more championships in the near future. After reports that Giannis isn’t willing to sign an extension until he sees the franchise commit to winning, this move was also made out of a little bit of urgency.
Along with the big 3 of Lillard, Giannis, and Middleton, the core remains very solid despite having to trade for a superstar like Dame. Brook Lopez has had a renaissance in the back end of his career, developing into an uncharacteristic defensive star in the middle. Bobby Portis is one of the best nench pieces in the league, and Pat Connaughton, MarJon Beauchamp, and Malik Beasley should see plenty of time in the backcourt with Lillard. Rookie Andre Jackson also starred for the national champion Huskies and will bring a good plug and play option as a guy who can guard three positions very well. The Bucks are by far the favorites to come out of the East, if not win the championship. And although a rematch of the 2021 Finals could very well happen, it’s important to remember that chemistry an take some time. They’re built to compete hard for the next few seasons.
Atlanta Hawks
HC: Quin Snyder
2nd year in ATL, Career record: 382-275, Team record: 10-11, Playoff record: 23-34 – AGE: 57
| POS. | NO. | STARTERS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C | #15 | Clint Capela | 6’10 | 256 lbs Switzerland | Age: 29 | 12 pts, 11 reb, 1.2 blk, 0.9 ast 65.3% FG |
| F | #12 | De’Andre Hunter | 6’8 | 221 lbs Virginia | Age: 25 | 15.4 pts, 4.2 reb, 1.4 ast, 0.5 stl 35% 3P |
| F | #41 | Saddiq Bey | 6’7 | 215 lbs Villanova | Age: 24 | 13.8 pts, 4.7 reb, 1.5 ast, 0.9 stl 36.1% 3P – (DET/ATL) |
| SG | #5 | Dejounte Murray | 6’5 | 180 lbs Washington | Age: 27 | 20.5 pts, 6.1 ast, 5.3 reb, 1.5 stl 34.4% 3P |
| PG | #11 | Trae Young | 6’1 | 164 lbs Oklahoma | Age: 25 | 26.2 pts, 10.2 ast, 3 reb, 1.1 stl 33.5% 3P |
| POS. | NO. | BENCH | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SG | #13 | Bogdan Bogdanović | 6’5 | 225 lbs Serbia | Age: 31 | 14 pts, 3.1 reb, 2.8 ast, 0.8 stl 40.6% 3P |
| SF | #14 | A.J. Griffin | 6’6 | 222 lbs Duke | Age: 20 | 8.9 pts, 2.1 reb, 1 ast, 0.6 stl 39% 3P |
| PF/C | #17 | Onyeka Okongwu | 6’9 | 240 lbs USC | Age: 22 | 9.9 pts, 7.2 reb, 1.3 blk, 1 ast 0.7 stl |
| G | #4 | Kobe Bufkin (R) | 6’4 | 195 lbs Michigan | Age: 20 | DRAFTED: 15th overall by ATL |
| PG | #8 | Patty Mills | 6’0 | 180 lbs St. Mary’s | Age: 35 | 6.2 pts, 1.4 ast, 1.1 reb, 0.4 stl 36.6% 3P – (BKN) |
| F | #1 | Jalen Johnson | 6’8 | 219 lbs Duke | Age: 21 | 5.6 pts, 4 reb, 1.2 ast, 0.5 stl 0.5 blk |
| SG | #32 | Wesley Matthews | 6’4 | 220 lbs Marquette | Age: 36 | 3.4 pts, 2.2 reb, 0.7 ast, 0.4 stl 31.5% 3P – (MIL) |
| SG | #25 | Garrison Mathews | 6’6 | 215 lbs Lipscomb | Age: 26 | 4.8 pts, 1.4 reb, 0.5 ast, 0.4 stl 35% 3P – (HOU/ATL) |
| PF/C | #0 | Bruno Fernando | 6’10 | 240 lbs Maryland | Age: 25 | 3.9 pts, 3.5 reb, 0.9 blk, 0.8 ast 52.7% FG |
| C | #18 | Mouhamed Gueye (R) | 6’11 | 210 lbs Washington State | Age: 20 | DRAFTED: 39th overall by CHA |
| POS. | NO. | TWO-WAY CONTRACTS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PG | #2 | Trent Forrest | 6’4 | 210 lbs Florida State | Age: 25 | 2.3 pts, 1.7 ast, 1.6 reb, 0.3 stl 41.7% FG |
| SG/SF | #3 | Seth Lundy (R) | 6’6 | 220 lbs Penn State | Age: 23 | DRAFTED: 46th overall by ATL |
| PF | #0 | Miles Norris (R) | 6’10 | 220 lbs UC-Santa Barbara | Age: 23 | UNDRAFTED in 2023 |
PAUL’S THOUGHTS:
Projected Record: 41-41, 9th in EAST
MVP: PG Trae Young
X-Factor: SG Dejounte Murray
ADD: PG Kobe Bufkin
LOSS: PF John Collins (UTA)
Grade: B-
The Trae Young era has had its fair share of ups and downs, with last year being a low for the team. Nate McMillan was let go after leading the team to an ECF appearance in 2021, and he was replaced by long-time Jazz coach Quin Snyder. The pairing of Young and Murray in the backcourt was a bit stagnant at times, with both being ball dominant players. John Collins, who mutually wanted to join someone new for a while, was sent to Utah this offseason which opens up the frontcourt for Saddiq Bey to step in to the lineup. Bey was a sneaky good addition at last year’s deadline, and can bring some much needed grit to a bit of an ego filled lineup.
Michigan guard Kobe Bufkin was added in the first round and he’ll bring plenty of promise to possibly replace Murray if the team doesn’t perform up to par. A.J. Griffin should see much more time as the 6th or 7th man after a very impressive rookie season, with sharpshooter Bogdan Bogdanovic back on the bench. Veterans Patty Mills and Wesley Matthews were also added and may see a very tough time grabbing minutes with the young options they have in the backcourt. I like this Hawks team, and a lot of the headache that I believe surrounded the team was do to frustration with Trae, Collins, and McMillan. They are probably a class right below Cleveland and New York, but in the range of Philly and Brooklyn.
Charlotte Hornets
HC: Steve Clifford
2nd year in CHA (second stint), Career record: 319-400, Team record: 27-55, Playoff record: 5-16 – AGE: 62
| POS. | NO. | STARTERS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C | #5 | Mark Williams | 7’0 | 240 lbs Duke | Age: 21 | 9 pts, 7.1 reb, 1 blk, 0.7 stl 63.7% FG |
| PF | #25 | P.J. Washington Jr. | 6’7 | 230 lbs Kentucky | Age: 25 | 15.7 pts, 4.9 reb, 2.4 ast, 1.1 blk 34.8% 3P |
| SF | #24 | Brandon Miller (R) | 6’9 | 200 lbs Alabama | Age: 20 | DRAFTED: 2nd overall by CHA |
| G | #3 | Terry Rozier | 6’1 | 190 lbs Louisville | Age: 29 | 21.1 pts, 5.1 ast, 4.1 reb, 1.2 stl 32.7% 3P |
| PG | #1 | LaMelo Ball | 6’7 | 180 lbs USA | Age: 22 | 23.3 pts, 8.4 ast, 6.4 reb, 1.3 stl 37.6% 3P |
| POS. | NO. | BENCH | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SF | #20 | Gordon Hayward | 6’7 | 225 lbs Butler | Age: 33 | 14.7 pts, 4.3 reb, 4.1 ast, 0.8 stl 32.5% 3P |
| SF | #0 | Miles Bridges* | 6’7 | 225 lbs Michigan State | Age: 25 | DNP – Away from the team |
| C | #4 | Nick Richards | 7’0 | 240 lbs Kentucky | Age: 25 | 8.2 pts, 6.4 reb, 1.1 blk, 0.6 ast 62.9% FG |
| SG/SF | #11 | Cody Martin | 6’6 | 205 lbs Nevada | Age: 28 | 7 GP, 5 pts, 3.4 reb, 1.6 ast 0.6 stl |
| G | #8 | Nick Smith Jr. (R) | 6’4 | 170 lbs Arkansas | Age: 19 | DRAFTED: 27th overall by CHA |
| F | #21 | J.T. Thor | 6’9 | 203 lbs Auburn | Age: 21 | 3.8 pts, 2.2 reb, 0.5 ast, 0.3 stl 0.3 blk |
| SG | #2 | James Bouknight | 6’4 | 190 lbs UConn | Age: 23 | 5.6 pts, 2.1 reb, 1.2 ast, 0.4 stl 30.3% 3P |
| G | #7 | Bryce McGowens | 6’6 | 175 lbs Nebraska | Age: 20 | 5.3 pts, 2 reb, 1.2 ast, 0.3 stl 32.5% 3P |
| PG | #45 | Edmond Sumner | 6’4 | 196 lbs Xavier | Age: 27 | 7.1 pts, 1.5 reb, 1.3 ast, 0.6 stl 35.6% 3P – (BKN) |
| PG | #44 | Frank Ntilikina | 6’4 | 200 lbs France | Age: 25 | 2.9 pts, 1.3 reb, 1.2 ast, 0.3 stl 0.1 blk – (DAL) |
| POS. | NO. | TWO-WAY CONTRACTS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PG | #9 | Théo Maledon | 6’4 | 175 lbs France | Age: 22 | 6.7 pts, 3.5 ast, 2.8 reb, 0.8 stl 0.3 blk |
| SG | #10 | Amari Bailey (R) | 6’5 | 185 lbs UCLA | Age: 19 | DRAFTED: 41st overall by CHA |
| SF | #12 | Leaky Black (R) | 6’9 | 205 lbs North Carolina | Age: 24 | UNDRAFTED in 2023 |
*Miles Bridges has to serve a 10-game suspension to start the season for domestic violence
PAUL’S THOUGHTS:
Projected Record: 26-56, 14th in EAST
MVP: PG LaMelo Ball
X-Factor: SF Miles Bridges
ADD: SF Brandon Miller
LOSS: SG Kelly Oubre Jr. (PHI)
Grade: D
After Steve Clifford was brought back to attempt to steer the ship in the right direction, Charlotte flopped last year and ended 27-55 and with the 2nd overall pick. A lot of that had to do with LaMelo Ball, who missed more than half of the year with several injuries. They were able to bring in Brandon Miller with their top pick, a lengthy wing who they hope can become a huge scoring option alongside Ball. P.J. Washington was also extended and we should see a full year of Mark Williams starting at center after a great rookie season.
The bench gives a few interesting pieces, with Gordon Hayward on the least year of his contract and Miles Bridges returning after a whole year sidelined by personal issues. James Bouknight is one of the more interesting guys to me on this roster, as he has been a huge let down through the first two seasons of his career. As a lottery pick who was seen as one of the best pure scorers in the draft, a lot of his misfortune could be centered around his age and the inept state of the franchise. He and Nick Smith Jr. are two guys who could have breakout seasons that I would not be shocked about. Above all this is still a bit of a brutal team, and one that needs more work. They have some young pieces but another top pick may be needed and possibly a new Head Coach.
Miami Heat
HC: Erik Spoelstra
16th year, Career/Team record: 704-491, Playoff record: 109-75 – AGE: 53
| POS. | NO. | STARTERS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C | #13 | Bam Adebayo | 6’9 | 255 lbs Kentucky | Age: 26 | 20.4 pts, 9.2 reb, 3.2 ast, 1.2 stl 54% FG |
| PF | #42 | Kevin Love | 6’8 | 251 lbs UCLA | Age: 35 | 8.2 pts, 6.4 reb, 1.9 ast, 0.3 stl 33.4% 3P – (CLE/MIA) |
| SF | #22 | Jimmy Butler | 6’7 | 230 lbs Marquette | Age: 34 | 22.9 pts, 5.9 reb, 5.3 ast, 1.8 stl 35% 3P |
| G | #14 | Tyler Herro | 6’5 | 195 lbs Kentucky | Age: 23 | 20.1 pts, 5.4 reb, 4.2 ast, 0.8 stl 37.8% 3P |
| PG | #7 | Kyle Lowry | 6’0 | 196 lbs Villanova | Age: 37 | 11.2 pts, 5.1 ast, 4.1 reb, 1 stl 34.5% 3P |
| POS. | NO. | BENCH | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SF | #16 | Caleb Martin | 6’5 | 205 lbs Nevada | Age: 28 | 9.6 pts, 4.8 reb, 1.6 ast, 1 stl 35.6% 3P |
| SG/SF | #55 | Duncan Robinson | 6’7 | 215 lbs Michigan | Age: 29 | 6.4 pts, 1.6 reb, 1.1 ast, 0.3 stl 32.8% 3P |
| SG | #0 | Josh Richardson | 6’6 | 200 lbs Tennessee | Age: 30 | 10.1 pts, 2.7 reb, 2.7 ast, 1.1 stl 36.5% 3P – (SAS/NOP) |
| C | #31 | Thomas Bryant | 6’10 | 248 lbs Indiana | Age: 26 | 9.8 pts, 5.7 reb, 0.5 blk, 0.5 ast 62.3% FG – (LAL/DEN) |
| F | #24 | Haywood Highsmith | 6’4 | 220 lbs Wheeling (D-II) | Age: 26 | 4.4 pts, 3.5 reb, 0.8 ast, 0.7 stl 33.9% 3P |
| SG/SF | #11 | Jaime Jaquez Jr. (R) | 6’7 | 225 lbs UCLA | Age: 22 | DRAFTED: 18th overall by MIA |
| F | #5 | Nikola Jović | 6’10 | 205 lbs Serbia | Age: 20 | 15 GP, 5.5 pts, 2.1 reb, 0.7 ast 0.5 stl |
| C | #25 | Orlando Robinson | 7’0 | 235 lbs Fresno State | Age: 23 | 3.7 pts, 4.1 reb, 0.8 ast, 0.4 blk 0.4 stl |
| G | #9 | Dru Smith | 6’3 | 203 lbs Missouri | Age: 25 | 15 GP, 2.9 pts, 1.6 reb, 1.5 ast 0.7 stl – (BKN/MIA) |
| POS. | NO. | TWO-WAY CONTRACTS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SF | #8 | Jamal Cain | 6’7 | 191 lbs Oakland | Age: 24 | 18 GP, 5.4 pts, 2.9 reb, 0.7 ast 35% 3P |
| G | #4 | R.J. Hampton | 6’4 | 175 lbs USA | Age: 22 | 6.4 pts, 1.9 reb, 1.1 ast, 0.6 stl 35.3% 3P – (ORL/DET) |
| F | #21 | Cole Swider | 6’9 | 220 lbs Syracuse | Age: 24 | 7 GP, 1.3 pts, 1 reb, 0.6 ast 37.5% 3P – (LAL) |
PAUL’S THOUGHTS:
Projected Record: 59-23, 2nd in EAST
MVP: SF Jimmy Butler
X-Factor: PG Tyler Herro
ADD: SG Jaime Jaquez Jr.
LOSS: SG Max Strus (CLE)
Grade: B+
After another failure in the NBA Finals, the Heat enter the new season hungry as ever to raise a banner. In year one of the Butler era, Miami made it to the Finals in the bubble where they lost to the Lakers, and subsequently lost to the Nuggets this year. They started off slow and went on a second half run that helped them become only the second 8-seed ever to make the Finals. They were also hungry this off-season to be the team to land Damian Lillard, and after it was news that he wanted to be in Miami, he ultimately wound up in Milwaukee. Butler, Adebayo, and Herro still remain though and will look to make due in a tougher conference with the same core that has been keeping them at #2.
Kyle Lowry will most likely jump back into the startimg role with Gabe Vincent leaving town, and Kevin Love was also re-signed who gave them great veteran minutes throughout the playoffs. Josh Richardson and Thomas Bryant will join as key depth guys and rookie Jaime Jaquez Jr. can see himself getting some big minutes right off of the bat if his scoring prowess shows to be true in the NBA. I think Miami will get off to a hot start, carrying the momentum from the offseason to help land them as a top seed in the East. Being able to beat Milwaukee or Boston? That’s to be determined.
Orlando Magic
HC: Jamahl Mosley
3rd year, Career/Team record: 56-108 – AGE: 48
| POS. | NO. | STARTERS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C | #34 | Wendell Carter Jr. | 6’10 | 270 lbs Duke | Age: 24 | 15.2 pts, 8.7 reb, 2.3 ast, 0.6 blk 35.6% 3P |
| PF | #5 | Paolo Banchero | 6’10 | 250 lbs Duke | Age: 20 | 20 pts, 6.9 reb, 3.7 ast, 0.8 stl 0.5 blk |
| F | #22 | Franz Wagner | 6’10 | 220 lbs Michigan | Age: 22 | 18.6 pts, 4.1 reb, 3.5 ast, 1 stl 36.1% 3P |
| SG/SF | #7 | Joe Ingles | 6’8 | 220 lbs Australia | Age: 36 | 6.9 pts, 3.3 ast, 2.8 reb, 0.7 stl 40.9% 3P – (MIL) |
| PG | #20 | Markelle Fultz | 6’4 | 209 lbs Washington | Age: 25 | 14 pts, 5.7 ast, 3.9 reb, 1.5 stl 51.4% FG |
| POS. | NO. | BENCH | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PG | #50 | Cole Anthony | 6’3 | 185 lbs North Carolina | Age: 23 | 13 pts, 4.8 reb, 3.9 ast, 0.6 stl 36.4% 3P |
| G | #4 | Jalen Suggs | 6’5 | 205 lbs Gonzaga | Age: 22 | 9.9 pts, 3 reb, 2.9 ast, 1.3 stl 32.7% 3P |
| F | #1 | Jonathan Isaac | 6’10 | 230 lbs Florida State | Age: 26 | 11 GP, 5 pts, 4 reb, 1.3 stl 40% 3P |
| SF | #13 | Jett Howard (R) | 6’8 | 215 lbs Michigan | Age: 20 | DRAFTED: 11th overall by ORL |
| G | #14 | Gary Harris | 6’4 | 210 lbs Michigan State | Age: 29 | 8.3 pts, 2 reb, 1.2 ast, 0.9 stl 43.1% 3P |
| F | #3 | Chuma Okeke | 6’8 | 229 lbs Auburn | Age: 25 | 4.7 pts, 3.6 reb, 1.4 ast, 0.7 stl 0.4 blk |
| PG | #0 | Anthony Black (R) | 6’7 | 200 lbs Arkansas | Age: 19 | DRAFTED: 6th overall by ORL |
| C | #21 | Moritz Wagner | 6’11 | 245 lbs Michigan | Age: 26 | 10.5 pts, 4.5 reb, 1.5 ast, 0.6 stl 31.3% 3P |
| SF | #2 | Caleb Houstan | 6’8 | 210 lbs Michigan | Age: 20 | 3.8 pts, 1.9 reb, 0.6 ast, 0.2 stl 33.8% 3P |
| C | #35 | Goga Bitadze | 6’11 | 250 lbs Georgia (Cty) | Age: 24 | 4.4 pts, 3.6 reb, 1 ast, 0.7 blk 55.2% FG – (IND/ORL) |
| POS. | NO. | TWO-WAY CONTRACTS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SF | #8 | Kevon Harris | 6’6 | 220 lbs Stephen F. Austin | Age: 26 | 4.1 pts, 2.1 reb, 0.5 ast, 0.5 stl 37.2% 3P |
| F | #25 | Admiral Schofield | 6’5 | 241 lbs Tennessee | Age: 26 | 4.2 pts, 1.7 reb, 0.8 ast, 0.2 stl 32.4% 3P |
| SG | #12 | Trevelin Queen | 6’5 | 190 lbs New Mexico State | Age: 26 | 7 GP, 3 pts, 2.4 reb, 0.9 ast 0.7 blk – (IND) |
PAUL’S THOUGHTS:
Projected Record: 39-43, 10th in EAST
MVP: PF Paolo Banchero
X-Factor: PF Jonathan Isaac
ADD: SG Joe Ingles
LOSS: C Bol Bol (PHX)
Grade: C+
The Magic raised their ranks from a 20-win team to a 34 win squad in 2022-23 and with only one .500+ season since ’11-’12, Orlando may have a squad that can get them back into the winning ways. Paolo Banchero shined in his rookie season, winning Rookie of the Year while averaging 20 ppg and developing into the franchise star. Franz Wagner has developed into a solid second scoring option and should join Banchero and Carter in the frontcourt. Joe Ingles was signed to a multi-year deal to be the veteran that the team can rely on to help coach their youthful lineup. He will also headline a guard core that is stacked with young depth.
Recent top picks Jalen Suggs and Cole Anthony have become the top guys off of the bench with Ingles and Fultz looking to be the starters. Gary Harris was also re-signed and will get big minutes. And this doesn’t even factor in the 6th overall pick this year, Anthony Black who will fight to see any minutes with their insane young depth in the backcourt (unless of course someone gets traded). Jonathan Isaac looks fully healthy for the first preseason since 2019 and will demand minutes along with rookie Jett Howard and Chuma Okeke. Jamahl Mosley will have his hands full trying to get enough minutes for this entire core which is something Orlando will gladly have to deal with. It will clearly be tough to compete, but the Magic are a legitimate back end of the play-in type of team. They should be maxing at around 37-38 wins and a push at the 10-seed.
Washington Wizards
HC: Wes Unseld Jr.
3rd year, Career/Team record: 70-94 – AGE: 48
| POS. | NO. | STARTERS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C | #21 | Daniel Gafford | 6’10 | 234 lbs Arkansas | Age: 25 | 9 pts, 5.6 reb, 1.3 blk, 1.1 ast 73.2% FG |
| PF | #33 | Kyle Kuzma | 6’9 | 221 lbs Utah | Age: 28 | 21.2 pts, 7.2 reb, 3.7 ast, 0.6 stl 33.3% 3P |
| F | #8 | Deni Avdija | 6’9 | 210 lbs Israel | Age: 22 | 9.2 pts, 6.4 reb, 2.8 ast, 0.9 stl 0.4 blk |
| SG | #13 | Jordan Poole | 6’4 | 194 lbs Michigan | Age: 24 | 20.4 pts, 4.5 ast, 2.7 reb, 0.8 stl 33.6% 3P – (GSW) |
| PG | #5 | Tyus Jones | 6’0 | 196 lbs Duke | Age: 27 | 10.3 pts, 5.2 ast, 2.5 reb, 1 stl 37.1% 3P – (MEM) |
| POS. | NO. | BENCH | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SF | #24 | Corey Kispert | 6’6 | 224 lbs Gonzaga | Age: 24 | 11.1 pts, 2.8 reb, 1.2 ast, 0.4 stl 42.4% 3P |
| SG | #20 | Landry Shamet | 6’4 | 190 lbs Wichita State | Age: 26 | 8.7 pts, 2.3 ast, 1.7 reb, 0.7 stl 37.7% 3P – (PHX) |
| F | #88 | Danilo Gallinari | 6’10 | 234 lbs Italy | Age: 35 | DNP – Injured – (BOS) |
| SG/SF | #0 | Bilal Coulibaly (R) | 6’6 | 195 lbs France | Age: 19 | DRAFTED: 7th overall pick by IND |
| G | #55 | Delon Wright | 6’5 | 185 lbs Utah | Age: 31 | 7.4 pts, 3.9 ast, 3.6 reb, 1.8 stl 34.5% 3P |
| C | #35 | Mike Muscala | 6’11 | 240 lbs Bucknell | Age: 32 | 6.1 pts, 3.2 reb, 0.8 ast, 0.4 blk 39.1% 3P – (OKC/BOS) |
| G | #1 | Johnny Davis | 6’4 | 195 lbs Wisconsin | Age: 21 | 5.8 pts, 2.3 reb, 1 ast, 0.4 stl 0.3 blk |
| PG | #9 | Ryan Rollins | 6’3 | 180 lbs Toledo | Age: 21 | 12 GP, 1.9 pts, 1 reb, 0.5 ast 33.3% 3P – (GSW) |
| F | #7 | Patrick Baldwin Jr. | 6’9 | 220 lbs Milwaukee | Age: 20 | 3.9 pts, 1.3 reb, 0.4 ast, 0.2 stl 38.1% 3P – (GSW) |
| PF | #16 | Anthony Gill | 6’8 | 230 lbs Virginia | Age: 31 | 3.3 ptas, 1.7 reb, 0.6 ast, 0.2 blk 53.8% FG |
| POS. | NO. | TWO-WAY CONTRACTS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| F | #97 | Eugene Omoruyi | 6’6 | 235 lbs Oregon | Age: 26 | 7 pts, 2.8 reb, 0.7 ast, 0.7 stl 0.1 blk – (OKC/DET) |
| G | #4 | Jared Butler | 6’3 | 193 lbs Baylor | Age: 23 | 6 GP, 6.2 pts, 1.3 reb, 0.8 stl 50% 3P – (OKC) |
| PF/C | John Butler Jr. | 7’0 | 190 lbs Florida State | Age: 20 | 19 GP, 2.4 pts, 0.9 reb, 0.6 ast 0.5 blk – (POR) |
PAUL’S THOUGHTS:
Projected Record: 22-60, 15th in EAST
MVP: PF Kyle Kuzma
X-Factor: SG Jordan Poole
ADD: SG Jordan Poole
LOSS: SG Bradley Beal (PHX)
Grade: D
Along with the Suns, who were their trade partners in the huge Bradley Beal trade, the Wizards enter the year with the most drastically changed roster. Washington decided to go in full rebuild mode after the year, trading away everything with value and acquiring a plethora of draft picks. In doing so, they acquired several veteran contracts that will become interesting to see how much time they receive. Danilo Gallinari, Landry Shamet, and Mike Muscala could be good trade chips come deadline time. Kyle Kuzma signed a 4-year extension, becoming the key piece they will build around along with newly acquired Jordan Poole. They join a young core with Bilal Coulibaly, Corey Kispert, and Deni Avdija.
The bottom line is the Wizards are just entering a rebuild and will not be competitive. The assorted mix of young talent and veterans on expiring contracts will make for an interesting situation at least to start the year, but the first pick is definitely going to be something they’ll be aiming for. It will be intriguing to find out how some of these guys perform in inflated roles.
WESTERN CONFERENCE
Denver Nuggets
HC: Michael Malone
9th year in DEN, Career record: 406-337, Team record: 367-270, Playoff record: 37-31 – AGE: 52
| POS. | NO. | STARTERS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C | #15 | Nikola Jokić | 6’11 | 284 lbs Serbia | Age: 28 | 24.5 pts, 11.8 reb, 9.8 ast, 1.3 stl 38.3% 3P |
| PF | #50 | Aaron Gordon | 6’8 | 235 lbs Arizona | Age: 28 | 16.3 pts, 6.6 reb, 3 ast, 0.8 stl 56.4% FG |
| F | #1 | Michael Porter Jr. | 6’10 | 218 lbs Missouri | Age: 25 | 17.4 pts, 5.5 reb, 1 ast, 0.6 stl 41.4% 3P |
| SG | #5 | Kentavious Caldwell-Pope | 6’5 | 204 lbs Georgia | Age: 30 | 10.8 pts, 2.7 reb, 2.4 ast, 1.5 stl 42.3% 3P |
| PG | #27 | Jamal Murray | 6’4 | 215 lbs Kentucky | Age: 26 | 20 pts, 6.2 ast, 4 reb, 1 stl 39.8% 3P |
| POS. | NO. | BENCH | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PG | #7 | Reggie Jackson | 6’2 | 208 lbs Boston College | Age: 33 | 10.2 pts, 3.4 ast, 2.1 reb, 0.7 stl 33.3% 3P – (LAC/DEN) |
| SG/SF | #0 | Christian Braun | 6’6 | 220 lbs Kansas | Age: 22 | 4.7 pts, 2.4 reb, 0.8 ast, 0.5 stl 35.4% 3P |
| PF/C | #22 | Zeke Nnaji | 6’9 | 240 lbs Arizona | Age: 22 | 5.2 pts, 2.6 reb, 0.4 blk, 0.3 ast 56.1% FG |
| F | #8 | Peyton Watson | 6’8 | 200 lbs UCLA | Age: 21 | 3.3 pts, 1.6 reb, 0.5 ast, 0.5 blk 42.9% 3P |
| SF | #3 | Julian Strawther (R) | 6’7 | 205 lbs Gonzaga | Age: 21 | DRAFTED: 29th overall by IND |
| PG | #24 | Jalen Pickett (R) | 6’4 | 202 lbs Penn State | Age: 23 | DRAFTED: 32nd overall by IND |
| SF | #9 | Justin Holiday | 6’6 | 180 lbs Washington | Age: 34 | 4.5 pts, 1.2 reb, 0.9 ast, 0.4 stl 0.4 blk – (ATL/DAL) |
| PF | #4 | Hunter Tyson (R) | 6’8 | 215 lbs Clemson | Age: 23 | DRAFTED: 37th overall by OKC |
| C | #6 | DeAndre Jordan | 6’11 | 265 lbs Texas A&M | Age: 35 | 5.1 pts, 5.2 reb, 0.9 ast, 0.6 blk 76.5% FG |
| F | #31 | Vlatko Čančar* (I) | 6’8 | 236 lbs Slovenia | Age: 26 | 5 pts, 2.1 reb, 1.3 ast, 0.4 stl 37.4% 3P |
| POS. | NO. | TWO-WAY CONTRACTS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PG | #21 | Collin Gillespie (R) | 6’3 | 190 lbs Villanova | Age: 24 | DNP – Injured |
| F | #11 | Braxton Key | 6’8 | 225 lbs Virginia | Age: 26 | 3 GP, 1.3 pts, 0.3 reb, 100% FG – (DET) |
| C | #30 | Jay Huff | 7’1 | 240 lbs Virginia | Age: 25 | 7 GP, 7.3 pts, 3 reb, 1.4 ast 0.6 blk – (WSH) |
*Vlatko Cancar tore his ACL and will miss the entire season
PAUL’S THOUGHTS:
Projected Record: 56-26, 2nd in WEST
MVP: C Nikola Jokic
X-Factor: SG Kentavious Caldwell-Pope
ADD: SF Julian Strawther
LOSS: SG Bruce Brown (IND)
Grade: A-
The reigning NBA champs enter the new year ready to bounce back and try to make it two straight. Great front office work has put Denver in the position to compete for several years to come, with all of their five starters locked up on long-term deals. The bench had a good mix of veterans and young contributors, with DeAndre Jordan, Reggie Jackson, and Christian Braun all returning. But with the departures of Bruce Brown and a few others, Denver will have a few inflated roles for their young guys off the bench. Braun immediately was impactful as a rookie, and Zeke Nnaji and Peyton Watson should see bigger minutes as role players.
Three rookies were also added to the core that fit the epitome of what the Nuggets have built. Julian Strawther is a 3-and-D slasher that can come in and contribute immediately at 21. Jalen Pickett was a star in his five-year college career, jumping from mid-major Siena to Penn State where he was one of the best playmakers in the Big 10. His game reminds me a lot of Monte Morris and what he became as an after thought coming out of the draft. On paper a lot of people will probably write off the Nuggets as making it out of the West, but Jokic and crew will compete hard if healthy. They don’t have the flashiness of the Suns but proved last year smart basketball tops all.
Minnesota Timberwolves
HC: Chris Finch
4th year, Career/Team record: 104-101, Playoff record: 3-8 – AGE: 54
| POS. | NO. | STARTERS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C | #27 | Rudy Gobert | 7’1 | 258 lbs France | Age: 31 | 13.4 pts, 11.6 reb, 1.4 blk, 1.2 ast 65.9% FG |
| C | #32 | Karl-Anthony Towns | 7’0 | 248 lbs Kentucky | Age: 27 | 20.8 pts, 8.1 reb, 4.8 ast, 0.7 stl 36.6% 3P |
| F | #3 | Jaden McDaniels | 6’9 | 185 lbs Washington | Age: 23 | 12.1 pts, 3.9 reb, 1.9 ast, 1 blk 39.8% 3P |
| SF | #1 | Anthony Edwards | 6’4 | 225 lbs Georgia | Age: 22 | 24.6 pts, 5.8 reb, 4.4 ast, 1.6 stl 36.9% 3P |
| PG | #10 | Mike Conley | 6’1 | 175 lbs Ohio State | Age: 35 | 11.9 pts, 6.7 ast, 2.7 reb, 1.1 stl 38.5% 3P |
| POS. | NO. | BENCH | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SF | #5 | Kyle Anderson | 6’9 | 230 lbs UCLA | Age: 30 | 9.4 pts, 5.3 reb, 4.9 ast, 1.1 stl 41% 3P |
| C | #11 | Naz Reid | 6’9 | 264 lbs LSU | Age: 24 | 11.5 pts, 4.9 reb, 1.1 ast, 0.8 blk 53.7% FG |
| G | #18 | Shake Milton | 6’5 | 205 lbs SMU | Age: 27 | 8.4 pts, 3.2 ast, 2.5 reb, 0.3 stl 37.8% 3P – (PHI) |
| SG/SF | #23 | Troy Brown Jr. | 6’6 | 215 lbs Oregon | Age: 24 | 7.1 pts, 4.1 reb, 1.3 ast, 0.8 stl 38.1% 3P – (LAL) |
| G | #9 | Nickeil Alexander-Walker | 6’5 | 205 lbs Virginia Tech | Age: 25 | 6.2 pts, 1.8 ast, 1.7 reb, 0.5 stl 38.4% 3P – (UTA/MIN) |
| F | #33 | Leonard Miller (R) | 6’10 | 210 lbs G-League | Age: 19 | DRAFTED: 33rd overall by SAS |
| SG/SF | #7 | Wendell Moore Jr. | 6’5 | 215 lbs Duke | Age: 22 | 1.4 pts, 0.6 reb, 0.6 ast, 0.3 stl 0.2 blk |
| F | #8 | Josh Minott | 6’8 | 205 lbs Memphis | Age: 21 | 15 GP, 3.1 pts, 1.7 reb, 0.4 blk 0.3 stl |
| PG | #6 | Jordan McLaughlin | 6’0 | 185 lbs USC | Age: 27 | 3.7 pts, 3.4 ast, 1.4 reb, 0.7 stl 30.8% 3P |
| POS. | NO. | TWO-WAY CONTRACTS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C | #55 | Luka Garza | 6’10 | 243 lbs Iowa | Age: 24 | 6.5 pts, 2.3 reb, 0.6 ast, 0.1 blk 35.9% 3P |
| PG | #12 | Daishen Nix | 6’3 | 226 lbs G-League | Age: 21 | 4 pts, 2.3 ast, 1.7 reb, 0.5 stl 0.1 blk – (HOU) |
| SG | #0 | Jaylen Clark* (R/I) | 6’5 | 205 lbs UCLA | Age: 21 | DRAFTED: 53rd overall by MIN |
*Jaylen Clark continues to rehab a torn achilles and may return in February
PAUL’S THOUGHTS:
Projected Record: 38-44, 8th in WEST
MVP: SF Anthony Edwards
X-Factor: C Rudy Gobert
ADD: SG Shake Milton
LOSS: SF Taurean Prince (LAL)
Grade: B
The Timberwolves have been hungry yet unsuccessful to field a winner since drafting KAT in 2015, but their young core hopes to guide them in that direction. Anthony Edwards has become one of the best young stars in the league and a perennial all-star type of talent. Towns finally stayed healthy in 2022-23 and hopes to do the same this year. Rudy Gobert looks to bounce back big time and make those 5 first round picks that Minnesota traded for him look a lot more worth it. Jaden McDaniels developed into an elite defender and great combo forward to add to a ridiculously tall front court of two centers and a PF. Other young pieces such as Naz Reid and Nickeil Alexander-Walker will continue to give good minutes off of the bench.
A real wild card for this team could be rookie wing Leonard Miller, who has the size and skillset to be one of the steals of the draft in the 2nd round. Taurean Prince and Troy Brown Jr. will also add solid veteran leadership in the second unit and versatility in the lineup if any of their stars go down. Some might call me crazy but I am a big fan of Minnesota this year, and I think they have a legitimate chance to not only finish first in the Northwest, but also make a push in the playoffs. Their work will be cut out for them but I’m going to go bold and give Minnesota the prediction in which I did. Let’s see if it works!
HC: Mark Daigneault
4th year, Career/Team record: 86-150 – AGE: 38
| POS. | NO. | STARTERS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C | #7 | Chet Holmgren (R) | 7’1 | 208 lbs Gonzaga | Age: 21 | DNP – Injured |
| SF | #8 | Jalen Williams | 6’6 | 218 lbs Santa Clara | Age: 22 | 14.1 pts, 4.5 reb, 3.3 ast, 1.4 stl 35.6% 3P |
| SF | #5 | Luguentz Dort | 6’4 | 220 lbs Arizona State | Age: 24 | 13.7 pts, 4.6 reb, 2.1 ast, 1 stl 33% 3P |
| G/SF | #3 | Josh Giddey | 6’8 | 216 lbs Australia | Age: 20 | 16.6 pts, 7.9 reb, 6.2 ast, 0.8 stl 0.4 blk |
| PG | #2 | Shai Gilgeous-Alexander | 6’6 | 195 lbs Kentucky | Age: 25 | 31.4 pts, 5.5 ast, 4.8 reb, 1.6 stl 1 blk |
| POS. | NO. | BENCH | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PF/C | #17 | Aleksej Pokusevski | 7’0 | 190 lbs Serbia | Age: 21 | 8.1 pts, 4.7 reb, 1.9 ast, 1.3 blk 36.5% 3P |
| PG | #22 | Cason Wallace (R) | 6’4 | 193 lbs Kentucky | Age: 19 | DRAFTED: 10th overall by DAL |
| G | #29 | Vasilije Micić (R) | 6’5 | 203 lbs Serbia | Age: 29 | DRAFTED in 2014 |
| SF | #34 | Kenrich Williams | 6’6 | 210 lbs TCU | Age: 28 | 8 pts, 4.9 reb, 2 ast, 0.8 stl 37.3% 3P |
| F | #9 | Dāvis Bertāns | 6’10 | 225 lbs Latvia | Age: 30 | 4.6 pts, 1.2 reb, 0.5 ast, 0.2 stl 39% 3P – (DAL) |
| SG | #21 | Aaron Wiggins | 6’5 | 190 lbs Maryland | Age: 24 | 6.8 pts, 3 reb, 1.1 ast, 0.6 stl 39.3% 3P |
| PF/C | #6 | Jaylin Williams | 6’10 | 245 lbs Arkansas | Age: 21 | 5.9 pts, 4.9 reb, 1.6 ast, 0.6 stl 40.7% 3P |
| PG | #23 | Tre Mann | 6’3 | 184 lbs Florida | Age: 22 | 7.7 pts, 2.3 reb, 1.8 ast, 0.6 stl 31.5% 3P |
| F | #13 | Ousmane Dieng | 6’10 | 220 lbs France | Age: 20 | 4.9 pts, 2.7 reb, 1.2 ast, 0.4 stl 0.2 blk |
| SG | #11 | Isaiah Joe | 6’3 | 165 lbs Arkansas | Age: 24 | 9.5 pts, 2.4 reb, 1.2 ast, 0.7 stl 40.9% 3P |
| POS. | NO. | TWO-WAY CONTRACTS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SF | #12 | Lindy Waters III | 6’6 | 210 lbs Oklahoma State | Age: 26 | 5.2 pts, 1.8 reb, 0.7 ast, 0.3 stl 35.8% 3P |
| C | #30 | Olivier Sarr | 7’0 | 240 lbs Kentucky | Age: | 9 GP, 4 pts, 3.4 reb, 0.6 blk 50% FG |
| SF | #18 | Keyontae Johnson (R) | 6’6 | 235 lbs Kansas State | Age: 23 | DRAFTED: 50th overall by OKC |
PAUL’S THOUGHTS:
Projected Record: 45-37, 5th in WEST
MVP: PG Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
X-Factor: SG Vasilije Micic
ADD: SG Vasilije Micic
LOSS: SF Dario Saric (GSW)
Grade: C+
The Thunder enter the season looking to be one of the surprise teams of the Western Conference and improve drastically. It hasn’t been an easy road since Russell Westbrook left, and despite their one good season with Chris Paul, OKC has had 3 tough years of a rebuild. Last season showed them some very important improvements though, with Shai becoming an all-star and Giddey, Williams, and Pokusevski showing great promise as young core pieces. 2022 top pick Chet Holmgren was sidelined all year after injury and should be able to put the team over the top with his immense promise as a unicorn big man.
One of the quietest moves of the offseason though was adding Vasilije Micic, a Serbian guard who was drafted in 2014 but is now finally set to join the NBA at 29. The 76ers traded his draft rights to OKC back in 2020 and while he was playing in the EuroLeague over the past decade, he has won an MVP and two championships. He has become one of the most promising players anywhere in the world, and a drak horse to get the Thunder well over the top. Add all of these young pieces to a good young Head Coach who has developed with this core and a squad of veterans that have provided solid minutes over the past few years, I have high hopes for OKC this season. They are a legitimate top six team in the West, and I think they can very well leap frog some of the “powerhouses” that have underperformed in recent memory.
Portland Trail Blazers
HC: Chauncey Billups
3rd year, Career/Team record: 60-104 – AGE: 47
| POS. | NO. | STARTERS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C | #2 | Deandre Ayton | 7’0 | 250 lbs Arizona | Age: 25 | 18 pts, 10 reb, 1.7 ast, 0.8 blk 58.8% FG – (PHX) |
| F | #9 | Jerami Grant | 6’8 | 210 lbs Syracuse | Age: 29 | 20.5 pts, 4.5 reb, 2.4 ast, 0.8 blk 40.1% 3P |
| SG/SF | #17 | Shaedon Sharpe | 6’5 | 200 lbs Kentucky | Age: 20 | 9.9 pts, 3 reb, 1.2 ast, 0.5 stl 36% 3P |
| G | #1 | Anfernee Simons | 6’3 | 181 lbs USA | Age: 24 | 21.1 pts, 4.1 ast, 2.6 reb, 0.7 stl 37.7% 3P |
| PG | #00 | Scoot Henderson (R) | 6’2 | 196 lbs G-League | Age: 19 | DRAFTED: 3rd overall by POR |
| POS. | NO. | BENCH | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PG | #92 | Malcolm Brogdon | 6’4 | 229 lbs Virginia | Age: 30 | 14.9 pts, 4.2 reb, 3.7 ast, 0.7 stl 44.4% 3P – (BOS) |
| C | #35 | Robert Williams III | 6’9 | 237 lbs Texas A&M | Age: 25 | 8 pts, 8.3 reb, 1.4 blk, 1.4 ast 74.7% FG – (BOS) |
| SG | #4 | Matisse Thybulle | 6’5 | 201 lbs Washington | Age: 26 | 4.1 pts, 2 reb, 1.2 stl, 0.7 ast 36.5% 3P – (PHI/POR) |
| F | #8 | Kris Murray (R) | 6’8 | 215 lbs Iowa | Age: 23 | DRAFTED: 23rd overall by POR |
| F | #12 | Ish Wainright | 6’5 | 250 lbs Baylor | Age: 29 | 4.2 pts, 2.3 reb, 0.9 ast, 0.6 stl 32.9% 3P – (PHX) |
| C | #10 | Moses Brown | 7’2 | 245 lbs UCLA | Age: 23 | 4.3 pts, 3.9 reb, 0.4 blk, 0.1 ast 63.5% FG – (LAC/BKN) |
| PF | #34 | Jabari Walker | 6’7 | 200 lbs Colorado | Age: 21 | 3.9 pts, 2.3 reb, 0.6 ast, 0.2 blk 0.2 stl |
| F | #33 | Toumani Camara (R) | 6’8 | 220 lbs Dayton | Age: 23 | DRAFTED: 52nd overall by PHX |
| G | #72 | Rayan Rupert (R) | 6’6 | 185 lbs France | Age: 19 | DRAFTED: 43rd overall by POR |
| POS. | NO. | TWO-WAY CONTRACTS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G | #5 | Skylar Mays | 6’4 | 205 lbs LSU | Age: 26 | 6 GP, 15.3 pts, 8.3 ast, 3.2 reb 46.2% 3P |
| C | #26 | Duop Reath (R) | 6’9 | 245 lbs LSU | Age: 27 | UNDRAFTED in 2018 |
| SF | #24 | Justin Minaya | 6’5 | 210 lbs Providence | Age: 24 | 4 GP, 4.3 pts, 3.8 reb, 1.3 blk 1 ast |
PAUL’S THOUGHTS:
Projected Record: 21-61, 15th in WEST
MVP: C Deandre Ayton
X-Factor: SG Anfernee Simons
ADD: PG Scoot Henderson
LOSS: PG Damian Lillard
Grade: D+
As the talk of the offseason, the Damian Lillard era in Portland finally came to an end as the team dabbled in a blokcbuster trade sending him to Milwaukee. In doing so, they also acquired and flipped Jrue Holiday, acquiring several draft picks and some young pieces to begin their rebuild. The #3 pick this year, Scoot Henderson will be the piece to build around as his ceiling could very well develop him into the newest athletic PG (i.e Ja Morant and Russell Westbrook). Deandre Ayton was the primary veteran they brought back in return, as the former 1st overall pick will look to be the leader of the team for the first time in his career. Jerami Grant was also extended while former 1st rounders Shaedon Sharpe and Anfernee Simons will give them more of a core to build around.
The Blazers were smart and entered somewhat of a rebuild over the last two years, despite still having Lillard on the team. This has helped them to be ahead of the game slightly entering their first full year in a rebuild. Despite this they still won’t be a contender, and it will take some time for this core to completely assemble a solid unit. Veteran Malcolm Brogdon can still be traded at the deadline for a decent return as his expiring contract will be intriguing to contenders. All and all their ceiling is the 10th spot, but will likely be in the high lottery for the 2024 draft.
Utah Jazz
HC: Will Hardy
2nd year, Career/Team record: 37-45 – AGE: 35
| POS. | NO. | STARTERS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C | #24 | Walker Kessler | 7’0 | 245 lbs Auburn | Age: 22 | 9.2 pts, 8.4 reb, 2.3 blk, 0.9 ast 72% FG |
| PF | #20 | John Collins | 6’9 | 226 lbs Wake Forest | Age: 26 | 13.1 pts, 6.5 reb, 1.2 ast, 1 blk 50.8% FG – (ATL) |
| F | #23 | Lauri Markkanen | 7’0 | 240 lbs Arizona | Age: 26 | 25.6 pts, 8.6 reb, 1.9 ast, 0.6 blk 39.2% 3P |
| G | #00 | Jordan Clarkson | 6’5 | 194 lbs Missouri | Age: 31 | 20.8 pts, 4.4 ast, 4 reb, 0.5 stl 33.8% 3P |
| PG | #2 | Collin Sexton | 6’2 | 190 lbs Alabama | Age: 24 | 14.3 pts, 2.9 ast, 2.2 reb, 0.6 stl 39.3% 3P |
| POS. | NO. | BENCH | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| F | #0 | Taylor Hendricks (R) | 6’10 | 210 lbs UCF | Age: 19 | DRAFTED: 9th overall by UTA |
| PF/C | #41 | Kelly Olynyk | 6’11 | 240 lbs Gonzaga | Age: 32 | 12.5 pts, 6.2 reb, 3.7 ast, 0.9 stl 39.4% 3P |
| G | #5 | Talen Horton-Tucker | 6’4 | 234 lbs Iowa State | Age: 22 | 10.7 pts, 3.8 ast, 3.2 reb, 0.6 stl 0.4 blk |
| SG | #30 | Ochai Agbaji | 6’5 | 215 lbs Kansas | Age: 23 | 7.9 pts, 2.1 reb, 1.1 ast, 0.3 stl 35.5% 3P |
| G | #3 | Keyonte George (R) | 6’4 | 185 lbs Baylor | Age: 19 | DRAFTED: 16th overall by UTA |
| F | #16 | Simone Fontecchio | 6’7 | 209 lbs Italy | Age: 27 | 6.3 pts, 1.7 reb, 0.8 ast, 0.3 stl 33% 3P |
| PG | #11 | Kris Dunn | 6’3 | 205 lbs Providence | Age: 29 | 13.2 pts, 5.6 ast, 4.5 reb, 1.1 stl 47.2% 3P |
| SF | #8 | Brice Sensabaugh (R) | 6’6 | 235 lbs Ohio State | Age: 19 | DRAFTED: 28th overall by UTA |
| C | #77 | Ömer Yurtseven | 6’11 | 275 lbs Georgetown | Age: 25 | 9 GP, 4.4 pts, 2.6 reb, 0.2 blk 59.3% FG – (MIA) |
| PF | #19 | Luka Šamanić | 6’10 | 227 lbs Croatia | Age: 23 | 7 GP, 9.9 pts, 4.3 reb, 2.1 ast 0.9 stl |
| POS. | NO. | TWO-WAY CONTRACTS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SG | #33 | Johnny Juzang | 6’6 | 215 lbs UCLA | Age: 22 | 18 GP, 4.8 pts, 2.2 reb, 0.4 ast 0.2 stl |
| C | #25 | Micah Potter | 6’8 | 248 lbs Wisconsin | Age: 25 | 7 GP, 3.4 pts, 2.3 reb, 0.6 ast 66.7% FG |
| SG | #10 | Josh Christopher | 6’4 | 215 lbs Arizona State | Age: 21 | 5.8 pts, 1.1 reb, 1.1 ast, 0.5 stl 0.2 blk – (HOU) |
PAUL’S THOUGHTS:
Projected Record: 33-49, 11th in WEST
MVP: SF Lauri Markkanen
X-Factor: C Walker Kessler
ADD: PF John Collins
LOSS: SF Rudy Gay (FA)
Grade: C
The Jazz entered a full rebuild a year ago after trading away Donovan Mitchell and Rudy Gobert and saw a somewhat positive year. Will Hardy took the helm as Head Coach and led them to a 37-45 season that saw Lauri Markkanen become an all-star. Now with the mix of their new core acquired and all of their draft picks, they look to make a playoff push in 2024. Walker Kessler became one of the best young defensive big men in the league and created a great core alongside Markkanen in the frontcourt. John Collins also gives them another offensive weapon at the 4 with veteran Kelly Olynyk off of the bench.
Rookies Taylor Hendricks and Keyonte George will shake things up in the second unit, with Hendricks possessing a ton of raw talent as a two-way wing in the league. Collin Sexton and Jordan Clarkson will continue to carry the backcourt, and Sexton will look to have a bounce back year after getting a big pay day in his sign-and-trade from Cleveland a year ago. I like the Jazz’s young core a lot and they’ve proven that they can take the next step very soon. The core is just still very young and probably isn’t much more than a play-in team heading into the season. That can always change but the powerhouses of the West still may be too strong.
Golden State Warriors
HC: Steve Kerr
10th year, Career/Team record: 473-238, Playoff record: 99-41 – AGE: 58
| POS. | NO. | STARTERS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PF | #23 | Draymond Green | 6’6 | 230 lbs Michigan State | Age: 33 | 8.5 pts, 7.2 reb, 6.8 ast, 1 stl 0.8 blk |
| SF | #22 | Andrew Wiggins | 6’7 | 197 lbs Kansas | Age: 28 | 17.1 pts, 5 reb, 2.3 ast, 1.2 stl 39.6% 3P |
| SG | #11 | Klay Thompson | 6’6 | 220 lbs Washington State | Age: 33 | 21.9 pts, 4.1 reb, 2.4 ast, 0.7 stl 41.2% 3P |
| PG | #30 | Stephen Curry | 6’2 | 185 lbs Davidson | Age: 35 | 29.4 pts, 6.3 ast, 6.1 reb, 0.9 stl 42.7% 3P |
| PG | #3 | Chris Paul | 6’0 | 175 lbs Wake Forest | Age: 38 | 13.9 pts, 8.9 ast, 4.3 reb, 1.5 stl 37.5% 3P – (PHX) |
| POS. | NO. | BENCH | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C | #5 | Kevon Looney | 6’9 | 222 lbs UCLA | Age: 27 | 7 pts, 9.3 reb, 2.5 ast, 0.6 blk 63% FG |
| PF | #00 | Jonathan Kuminga | 6’7 | 225 lbs G-League | Age: 21 | 9.9 pts, 3.4 reb, 1.9 ast, 0.6 stl 37% 3P |
| G | #0 | Gary Payton II | 6’2 | 195 lbs Oregon State | Age: 30 | 4.6 pts, 3.1 reb, 1.4 ast, 1 stl 50% 3P – (POR/GSW) |
| F | #20 | Dario Šarić | 6’10 | 225 lbs Croatia | Age: 29 | 6.4 pts, 3.6 reb, 1.3 ast, 0.4 stl 39.1% 3P – (PHX/OKC) |
| PG | #1 | Cory Joseph | 6’3 | 200 lbs Texas | Age: 32 | 6.9 pts, 3.5 ast, 1.7 reb, 0.5 stl 38.9% 3P – (DET) |
| SG | #4 | Moses Moody | 6’5 | 211 lbs Arkansas | Age: 21 | 4.8 pts, 1.7 reb, 0.8 ast, 0.3 stl 36.3% 3P |
| SG | #2 | Brandin Podziemski (R) | 6’4 | 203 lbs Santa Clara | Age: 20 | DRAFTED: 19th overall by GSW |
| PF | #32 | Trayce Jackson-Davis (R) | 6’9 | 245 lbs Indiana | Age: 23 | DRAFTED: 57th overall by WSH |
| POS. | NO. | TWO-WAY CONTRACTS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SG | #18 | Jerome Robinson | 6’4 | 190 lbs Boston College | Age: 26 | DNP – G-League |
| SG | #25 | Lester Quiñones | 6’5 | 205 lbs Memphis | Age: 22 | 4 GP, 2.5 pts, 0.8 reb, 0.5 ast 0.3 stl |
| PF/C | #12 | Usman Garuba | 6’8 | 229 lbs Spain | Age: 21 | 3 pts, 4.1 reb, 0.9 ast, 0.6 stl 40.7% 3P – (HOU) |
PAUL’S THOUGHTS:
Projected Record: 53-29, 3rd in WEST
MVP: PG Stephen Curry
X-Factor: PF Jonathan Kuminga
ADD: PG Chris Paul
LOSS: SG Jordan Poole (WSH)
Grade: B+
After raising up their fourth banner in the Steph/Klay/Draymond era, the Warriors has another good year but were a quick out in the playoffs. They followed up with a shake up of the roster, letting Jordan Poole go to Washington and bringing in star and future HOF PG Chris Paul. This makes for a very interesting situation, with CP3 now running the point we will get to see Curry playing more off of the ball. I mean regardless it really doesn’t matter as his elusiveness keeps him a dominant threat playing on or off the ball. Draymond Green was extended, locking in a return of the big three that people were beginning to doubt was going to return. And of course with the beef between him and Poole from last years training camp, which according to sources lingered well into the season, it makes sense that one of them had to go. And Golden State chose their four-time champion/former DPOY.
Many peoples eyes are going to be on Chris Paul and whether he can make things work, but my eyes are more on the bench. With the gap in frontcourt help on this roster, the development of former lottery pick Jonathan Kuminga will be crucial. He has a huge opportunity to make a name for himself this year, and the team will look on him to carry big minutes plugging up the interior with their stacked roster of guards. Veteran wing Dario Saric will give valuable minutes off the bench as well and the Warriors should easily be in the mix once again. A road to their fifth ring of this era will be tough, but the ceiling will always remain high, probably being around a 3 or 4 seed.
Los Angeles Clippers
HC: Tyronn Lue
4th year in LAC, Career record: 261-186, Team record: 133-103, Playoff record: 52-33 – AGE: 46
| POS. | NO. | STARTERS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C | #40 | Ivica Zubac | 7’0 | 240 lbs Croatia | Age: 26 | 10.8 pts, 9.9 reb, 1.3 blk, 1 ast 63.4% FG |
| F | #8 | Marcus Morris Sr. | 6’8 | 218 lbs Kansas | Age: 34 | 11.2 pts, 4 reb, 1.8 ast, 0.6 stl 36.5% 3P |
| SF | #2 | Kawhi Leonard | 6’7 | 225 lbs San Diego State | Age: 32 | 23.8 pts, 6.5 reb, 3.9 ast, 1.4 stl 41.6% 3P |
| SG/SF | #13 | Paul George | 6’8 | 220 lbs Fresno State | Age: 33 | 23.8 pts, 6.1 reb, 5.1 ast, 1.5 stl 37.1% 3P |
| PG | #0 | Russell Westbrook | 6’3 | 200 lbs UCLA | Age: 34 | 15.9 pts, 7.5 ast, 5.8 reb, 1 stl 0.5 blk – (LAL/LAC) |
| POS. | NO. | BENCH | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SG | #24 | Norman Powell | 6’3 | 215 lbs UCLA | Age: 30 | 17 pts, 2.9 reb, 1.8 ast, 0.8 stl 39.7% 3P |
| G | #14 | Terance Mann | 6’5 | 215 lbs Florida State | Age: 26 | 8.8 pts, 3.4 reb, 2.3 ast, 0.5 stl 38.9% 3P |
| F | #33 | Nicolas Batum | 6’8 | 230 lbs France | Age: 34 | 6.1 pts, 3.8 reb, 1.6 ast, 0.7 stl 39.1% 3P |
| F | #23 | Robert Covington | 6’7 | 209 lbs Tennessee State | Age: 32 | 6 pts, 3.5 reb, 1.2 ast, 0.8 stl 39.7% 3P |
| C | #44 | Mason Plumlee | 7’0 | 254 lbs Duke | Age: 33 | 10.8 pts, 8.9 reb, 3.1 ast, 0.6 blk 68% FG – (CHA/LAC) |
| G | #5 | Bones Hyland | 6’2 | 169 lbs VCU | Age: 23 | 11.8 pts, 3.1 ast, 2.4 reb, 0.7 stl 37.1% 3P – (DEN/LAC) |
| F | #6 | Kenyon Martin Jr. | 6’7 | 215 lbs USA | Age: 22 | 12.7 pts, 5.5 reb, 1.5 ast, 0.5 stl 0.4 blk – (HOU) |
| SG/SF | #4 | Brandon Boston Jr. | 6’6 | 188 lbs Kentucky | Age: 21 | 6.5 pts, 1.4 reb, 0.9 ast, 0.4 stl 41.4% 3P |
| SG | #7 | Amir Coffey | 6’7 | 210 lbs Minnesota | Age: 26 | 3.4 pts, 1.1 reb, 1.1 ast, 0.1 stl 0.1 blk |
| F | #21 | Kobe Brown (R) | 6’8 | 250 lbs Missouri | Age: 23 | DRAFTED: 30th overall by LAC |
| POS. | NO. | TWO-WAY CONTRACTS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PF | #25 | Moussa Diabaté | 6’11 | 210 lbs Michigan | Age: 21 | 2.7 pts, 2.3 reb, 0.4 blk, 0.3 stl 0.2 ast |
| G | #12 | Joshua Primo | 6’6 | 200 lbs Alabama | Age: 20 | 4 GP, 7 pts, 4.5 ast, 3.3 reb 0.5 blk – (SAS) |
| SF | #11 | Jordan Miller (R) | 6’7 | 195 lbs Miami | Age: 23 | DRAFTED: 48th overall by LAC |
PAUL’S THOUGHTS:
Projected Record: 48-34, 4th in WEST
MVP: SF Kawhi Leonard
X-Factor: PG Russell Westbrook
ADD: SF Kenyon Martin Jr.
LOSS: SG Eric Gordon (PHX)
Grade: B+
Now entering year 5 since acquiring Kawhi and PG13 in free agency, it is unequivocally a do-or-die year for the Clippers. With George and Kawhi having only 1-year Player Options left and Morris, Covington, Plumlee, and Batum set to hit free agency, this core could get shaken up real fast with another let down year. Sure it seems unlikely that Kawhi and George will leave, but with LeBron potentially heading towards retirement, the Lakers can become a hot destination to take one of them away when that occurs. This team will enter the season with another stacked core, chalk full of veterans in the lineup and on the bench. Plus young guards Bones Hyland and Terance Mann can become the future if they end up losing multiple veterans in the future.
There’s no doubt that Tyronn Lue has done a solid job at the helm for this team, but the true inconsistency lies with the health of their two stars. Entering this year it looks like Kawhi and PG are going to be healthy to at least start the season, but we all know load management and health issues will hang over the two of them. I still think this group can be really competitive, but I have been guilty of predicting them to win the championship in the past and won’t do so again. I do think the West will bring some surprises this year, and the Clippers could be one of them.
Los Angeles Lakers
HC: Darvin Ham
2nd year, Career/Team record: 43-39, Playoff record: 8-8 – AGE: 50
| POS. | NO. | STARTERS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PF | #3 | Anthony Davis | 6’10 | 253 lbs Kentucky | Age: 30 | 25.9 pts, 12.5 reb, 2.6 ast, 2 blk 1.1 stl |
| F | #23 | LeBron James | 6’9 | 250 lbs USA | Age: 38 | 28.9 pts, 8.3 reb, 6.8 ast, 0.9 stl 0.6 blk |
| F | #28 | Rui Hachimura | 6’8 | 230 lbs Gonzaga | Age: 25 | 11.2 pts, 4.5 reb, 0.9 ast, 0.4 blk 31.9% 3P – (WSH/LAL) |
| SG | #15 | Austin Reaves | 6’5 | 197 lbs Oklahoma | Age: 25 | 13 pts, 3.4 ast, 3 reb, 0.5 stl 39.8% 3P |
| PG | #1 | D’Angelo Russell | 6’4 | 193 lbs Ohio State | Age: 27 | 17.8 pts, 6.2 ast, 3 reb, 1 stl 39.6% 3P – (MIN/LAL) |
| POS. | NO. | BENCH | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PF/C | #2 | Jarred Vanderbilt | 6’8 | 214 lbs Kentucky | Age: 24 | 7.9 pts, 7.5 reb, 2.4 ast, 1.1 stl 0.3 blk |
| PG | #7 | Gabe Vincent | 6’3 | 200 lbs UC-Santa Barbara | Age: 27 | 9.4 pts, 2.5 ast, 2.1 reb, 0.9 stl 33.4% 3P – (MIA) |
| F | #12 | Taurean Prince | 6’6 | 218 lbs Baylor | Age: 29 | 9.1 pts, 2.4 reb, 1.6 ast, 0.5 stl 38.1% 3P – (MIN) |
| G | #0 | Jalen Hood-Schifino (R) | 6’6 | 215 lbs Indiana | Age: 20 | DRAFTED: 17th overall by LAL |
| PF/C | #35 | Christian Wood | 6’9 | 214 lbs UNLV | Age: 28 | 16.6 pts, 7.3 reb, 1.8 ast, 1.1 blk 37.6% 3P – (DAL) |
| SF | #5 | Cam Reddish | 6’8 | 217 lbs Duke | Age: 24 | 9.7 pts, 2.2 reb, 1.4 ast, 1 stl 31.3% 3P – (NYK/POR) |
| C | #11 | Jaxson Hayes | 7’0 | 220 lbs Texas | Age: 23 | 5 pts, 2.8 reb, 0.7 ast, 0.4 blk 55.1% FG – (NOP) |
| SF | #21 | Maxwell Lewis (R) | 6’7 | 205 lbs Pepperdine | Age: 21 | DRAFTED: 40th overall by DEN |
| SG | #10 | Max Christie | 6’5 | 190 lbs Michigan State | Age: 20 | 3.1 pts, 1.8 reb, 0.5 ast, 0.2 stl 41.9% 3P |
| POS. | NO. | TWO-WAY CONTRACTS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C | #14 | Colin Castleton (R) | 6’11 | 231 lbs Florida | Age: 23 | UNDRAFTED in 2023 |
| SG | #55 | D’Moi Hodge (R) | 6’4 | 185 lbs Missouri | Age: 24 | UNDRAFTED in 2023 |
| F | #17 | Alex Fudge (R) | 6’8 | 189 lbs Florida | Age: 20 | UNDRAFTED in 2023 |
PAUL’S THOUGHTS:
Projected Record: 42-40, 6th in WEST
MVP: PF Anthony Davis
X-Factor: SF LeBron James
ADD: PG Gabe Vincent
LOSS: Dennis Schroder (TOR)
Grade: B-
After a terrible year and a half that was one of the worst stretches LeBron has ever played with, the Lakers shook things up at last year’s deadline and were able to make a push all the way from the play-in to the Western Conference Finals. They ended up falling short to the eventual champion Nuggets, but LA liked that core so much they made sure to bring them all back. D’Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, and Jarred Vanderbilt were all re-signed to multi-year deals and will be key parts to the Lakers possible success. Of course LeBron is aging, as he enters year 21 in his age-39 season and is now the oldest player in the NBA entering the new year. Anthony Davis stayed relatively healthy last season, and became the clear star of this team.
Their division will be extremely tough, with the Warriors who are always dominant, the Suns who may be the best in the league, and the Clippers and Kings. It’s difficult to predict this team headed into the new season, with a lot of injury issues potentially playing a factor. But there’s no doubt this core was able to make it work even if AD and Bron were sidelined. They’ll definitely be a playoff team and probably will have a ceiling of just in front of the play-in at 5 or 6.
Phoenix Suns
HC: Frank Vogel
1st year in PHX, Career record: 431-389, Playoff record: 49-39 – AGE: 50
| POS. | NO. | STARTERS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C | #20 | Jusuf Nurkić | 7’0 | 290 lbs Bosnia | Age: 29 | 13.3 pts, 9.1 reb, 2.9 ast, 0.8 blk 0.8 stl – (POR) |
| F | #35 | Kevin Durant | 6’10 | 240 lbs Texas | Age: 35 | 29.1 pts, 6.7 reb, 5 ast, 1.4 blk 40.4% 3P – (BKN/PHX) |
| SF | #2 | Josh Okogie | 6’4 | 213 lbs Georgia Tech | Age: 25 | 7.3 pts, 3.5 reb, 1.5 ast, 0.8 stl 33.5% 3P |
| SG | #1 | Devin Booker | 6’5 | 206 lbs Kentucky | Age: 26 | 27.8 pts, 5.5 ast, 4.5 reb, 1 stl 35.1% 3P |
| SG | #3 | Bradley Beal | 6’4 | 207 lbs Florida | Age: 30 | 23.2 pts, 5.4 ast, 3.9 reb, 0.9 stl 36.5% 3P – (WSH) |
| POS. | NO. | BENCH | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SG | #8 | Grayson Allen | 6’4 | 198 lbs Duke | Age: 28 | 10.4 pts, 3.3 reb, 2.3 ast, 0.9 stl 39.9% 3P – (MIL) |
| F | #25 | Nassir Little | 6’5 | 220 lbs North Carolina | Age: 23 | 6.6 pts, 2.6 reb, 0.9 ast, 0.4 stl 36.7% 3P – (POR) |
| SG | #23 | Eric Gordon | 6’3 | 215 lbs Indiana | Age: 34 | 12.4 pts, 2.7 ast, 1.9 reb, 0.6 stl 37.1% 3P – (HOU/LAC) |
| PF/C | #14 | Drew Eubanks | 6’10 | 245 lbs Oregon State | Age: 26 | 6.6 pts, 5.4 reb, 1.3 ast, 1.3 blk 64.1% FG – (POR) |
| PG | #0 | Jordan Goodwin | 6’3 | 200 lbs St. Louis | Age: 24 | 6.6 pts, 3.3 reb, 2.7 ast, 0.9 stl 32.2% 3P – (WSH) |
| SG/SF | #18 | Yuta Watanabe | 6’8 | 215 lbs George Washington | Age: 29 | 5.6 pts, 2.4 reb, 0.8 ast, 0.4 stl 44.4% 3P – (BKN) |
| F | #21 | Keita Bates-Diop | 6’8 | 229 lbs Ohio State | Age: 27 | 9.7 pts, 3.7 reb, 1.5 ast, 0.7 stl 39.4% 3P – (SAS) |
| C | #11 | Bol Bol | 7’2 | 220 lbs Oregon | Age: 23 | 9.1 pts, 5.8 reb, 1.2 blk, 1 ast 54.6% FG – (ORL/LAL) |
| PF/C | #4 | Chimezie Metu | 6’9 | 225 lbs USC | Age: 26 | 4.9 pts, 3 reb, 0.6 ast, 0.3 blk 58.9% FG – (SAC) |
| SG | #10 | Damion Lee* (I) | 6’5 | 210 lbs Louisville | Age: 30 | 8.2 pts, 3 reb, 1.3 ast, 0.4 stl 44.5% 3P |
| POS. | NO. | TWO-WAY CONTRACTS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SG | #38 | Saben Lee | 6’2 | 183 lbs Vanderbilt | Age: 24 | 6 pts, 2.7 ast, 1.8 reb, 0.8 stl 36.7% 3P – (PHI/PHX) |
| C | #27 | Udoka Azubuike | 6’11 | 270 lbs Kansas | Age: 24 | 3.5 pts, 3.3 reb, 0.4 blk, 0.3 ast 81.9% FG – (UTA) |
*Damion Lee has a torn meniscus and will possibly miss the entire season
PAUL’S THOUGHTS:
Projected Record: 59-23, 1st in WEST
MVP: SF Kevin Durant
X-Factor: SG Bradley Beal
ADD: SG Bradley Beal
LOSS: PG Chris Paul
Grade: A
The Phoenix Suns have surely been the talk of the offseason, with their blockbuster trade early on to acquire all-star Bradley Beal and the amount they shipped out in the process. After losing in the NBA Finals in 2021, the Suns struggled to make it back over the past two seasons and desperately needed a big-time shake up. After trading Cam Johnson and Mikal Bridges at the deadline for KD, they also let Chris Paul and Deandre Ayton go in exchange for Beal, Jusuf Nurkic, and Grayson Allen. The only remaining piece is Devin Booker, who has been the franchise’s icon through their #1 pick seasons and their Finals appearances. A full season now looms with the new big three in Booker, Durant, and Beal with a plethora of supporting pieces around them.
The Suns took the liberty this offseason to focus on acquiring plenty of bench talent on cheap deals to help in case of injuries. And this right here is what I think could put them over the top. Role players Drew Eubanks, Keita Bates-Diop, Yuta Watanabe, Jordan Goodwin, Bol Bol, and Chimezie Metu were all signed for cheap. Eric Gordon was also added while Grayson Allen and Nassir Little came over via trade. This right here is the true reason why I think the Suns are the team to beat in the entire league, and with KD’s recent injury issues, plenty of frontcourt depth can and will carry the load. I give the Suns the highest grad of an A for this reason, as well as being able to bring in great and winning veterans. And with Frank Vogel at the helm, if this team stays healthy they will catch on to a role very fast. Phoenix has never raised a banner despite having many Hall of Fame faces wear their jersey. This could be the year that they change that.
Sacramento Kings
HC: Mike Brown
2nd year in SAC, Career record: 395-250, Team record: 48-34, Playoff record: 50-40 – AGE: 53
| POS. | NO. | STARTERS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PF/C | #10 | Domantas Sabonis | 7’0 | 240 lbs Gonzaga | Age: 27 | 19.1 pts, 12.3 reb, 7.3 ast, 0.8 stl 37.3% 3P |
| F | #40 | Harrison Barnes | 6’8 | 225 lbs North Carolina | Age: 31 | 15 pts, 4.5 reb, 1.6 ast, 0.7 stl 37.4% 3P |
| F | #13 | Keegan Murray | 6’8 | 215 lbs Iowa | Age: 23 | 12.2 pts, 4.6 reb, 1.2 ast, 0.8 stl 41.1% 3P |
| SG | #9 | Kevin Huerter | 6’7 | 198 lbs Maryland | Age: 25 | 15.2 pts, 3.3 reb, 2.9 ast, 1.1 stl 40.2% 3P |
| PG | #5 | De’Aaron Fox | 6’3 | 185 lbs Kentucky | Age: 25 | 25 pts, 6.1 ast, 4.2 reb, 1.1 stl 32.4% 3P |
| POS. | NO. | BENCH | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SG | #0 | Malik Monk | 6’3 | 200 lbs Kentucky | Age: 25 | 13.5 pts, 3.9 ast, 2.6 reb, 0.6 stl 35.9% 3P |
| PF | #41 | Trey Lyles | 6’9 | 234 lbs Kentucky | Age: 27 | 7.6 pts, 4.1 reb, 0.9 ast, 0.4 blk 36.3% 3P |
| PG | #15 | Davion Mitchell | 6’0 | 202 lbs Baylor | Age: 25 | 5.6 pts, 2.3 ast, 1.3 reb, 0.6 stl 32% 3P |
| G | #3 | Chris Duarte | 6’5 | 190 lbs Oregon | Age: 26 | 7.9 pts, 2.5 reb, 1.4 ast, 0.5 stl 31.6% 3P – (IND) |
| C | #00 | JaVale McGee | 7’0 | 270 lbs Nevada | Age: 35 | 4.4 pts, 2.5 reb, 0.6 blk, 0.3 ast 64% FG – (DAL) |
| F | #7 | Sasha Vezenkov (R) | 6’9 | 225 lbs Bulgaria | Age: 28 | DRAFTED in 2017 |
| G | #20 | Colby Jones (R) | 6’6 | 205 lbs Xavier | Age: 21 | DRAFTED: 34th overall by CHA |
| C | #25 | Alex Len | 7’1 | 250 lbs Maryland | Age: 30 | 1.7 pts, 2.3 reb, 0.5 ast, 0.4 blk 53.3% FG |
| F | #17 | Kessler Edwards | 6’8 | 215 lbs Pepperdine | Age: 23 | 2.8 pts, 1.7 reb, 0.6 ast, 0.4 stl 0.2 blk – (BKN/SAC) |
| POS. | NO. | TWO-WAY CONTRACTS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SG | #23 | Keon Ellis | 6’5 | 175 lbs Arizona | Age: 23 | 6 GP, 1.5 pts, 0.5 reb, 0.4 ast 50% 3P |
| SF | #18 | Jalen Slawson (R) | 6’7 | 218 lbs Furman | Age: 23 | DRAFTED: 54th overall by SAC |
| PG | #31 | Jordan Ford (R) | 6’1 | 175 lbs St. Mary’s | Age: 25 | UNDRAFTED in 2020 |
PAUL’S THOUGHTS:
Projected Record: 41-41, 7th in WEST
MVP: PG De’Aaron Fox
X-Factor: SF Keegan Murray
ADD: PG Chris Duarte
LOSS: C Richaun Holmes (DAL)
Grade: B
For a franchise that has been stuck in NBA mediocrity for two decades, the Kings had a superb ’22-’23 season. They made the playoffs for the first time in 16 years and pushed the reigning NBA champion Warriors to seven games in the first round. Now heading into the new season, all eyes will be on the Kings to repeat in a division that only got that much better. Mike Brown completely changed the narrative in his first year in Sacramento, and Domantas Sabonis and De’Aaron Fox became one of the better duos in the game. Kevin Huerter also had a career year in his first season in Sacramento, while Malik Monk also broke out after being reuinted with his former Kentucky backcourt mate in Fox. Trey Lyles was re-signed as a key backup big and Harrison Barnes and Keegan Murray will both split the forward spots, as the team hopes Murray can become a good rotational piece with Barnes.
JaVale McGee will also give depth off of the bench and European forward Sasha Vezenkov was signed to a 3-year deal after deciding to make the jump to the NBA after being drafted in 2017. This team all-around is very solid and will make some noise again, but it’s tough to imagine that they will match their 48-34 record from a year ago. A little bit of a setback is probably on the loom especially with how forceful their division and the entire Western Conference has come. They were also able to capitalize on bad starts from the Warriors and Lakers, something that isn’t easy to bank on happening again this year. They will still be a playoff team, but probably will need to navigate through the play-in first.
Dallas Mavericks
HC: Jason Kidd
3rd year in DAL, Career record: 273-264, Team record: 90-74, Playoff record: 18-24 – AGE: 50
| POS. | NO. | STARTERS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C | #7 | Dwight Powell | 6’10 | 240 lbs Stanford | Age: 32 | 6.7 pts, 4.1 reb, 0.9 ast, 0.6 stl 73.2% FG |
| F | #2 | Grant Williams | 6’6 | 236 lbs Tennessee | Age: 24 | 8.1 pts, 4.6 reb, 1.7 ast, 0.5 stl 39.5% 3P – (BOS) |
| SG/SF | #10 | Tim Hardaway Jr. | 6’5 | 205 lbs Michigan | Age: 31 | 14.4 pts, 3.5 reb, 1.8 ast, 0.7 stl 38.5% 3P |
| PG | #77 | Luka Dončić | 6’7 | 230 lbs Slovenia | Age: 24 | 32.4 pts, 8.6 reb, 8 ast, 1.4 stl 34.2% 3P |
| PG | #11 | Kyrie Irving | 6’2 | 191 lbs Duke | Age: 31 | 27.1 pts, 5.5 ast, 5.1 reb, 1.1 stl 37.9% 3P – (BKN/DAL) |
| POS. | NO. | BENCH | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SG | #30 | Seth Curry | 6’1 | 190 lbs Duke | Age: 33 | 9.2 pts, 1.6 reb, 1.6 ast, 0.6 stl 40.5% 3P – (BKN) |
| SF | #55 | Derrick Jones Jr. | 6’6 | 210 lbs UNLV | Age: 26 | 5 pts, 2.4 reb, 0.6 blk, 0.5 stl 0.5 ast – (CHI) |
| C | #2 | Dereck Lively II (R) | 7’1 | 234 lbs Duke | Age: 19 | DRAFTED: 12th overall by OKC |
| SG | #8 | Josh Green | 6’6 | 210 lbs Arizona | Age: 22 | 9.1 pts, 3 reb, 1.7 ast, 0.7 stl 40.2% 3P |
| SG | #1 | Jaden Hardy | 6’4 | 198 lbs G-League | Age: 21 | 8.8 pts, 1.9 reb, 1.4 ast, 0.4 stl 40.4% 3P |
| PF | #42 | Maxi Kleber | 6’10 | 240 lbs Germany | Age: 31 | 5.9 pts, 3.6 reb, 1.4 ast, 0.8 blk 34.8% 3P |
| PF/C | #20 | Richaun Holmes | 6’10 | 240 lbs Bowling Green | Age: 30 | 3.1 pts, 1.9 reb, 0.3 blk, 0.2 ast 61.8% FG – (SAC) |
| PF | #88 | Markieff Morris | 6’9 | 245 lbs Kansas | Age: 34 | 3.8 pts, 2 reb, 0.9 ast, 0.3 stl 39.4% 3P – (BKN/DAL) |
| F | #18 | Olivier Maxence-Prosper (R) | 6’8 | 215 lbs Marquette | Age: 21 | DRAFTED: 24th overall by SAC |
| PG | #0 | Dante Exum | 6’5 | 214 lbs Australia | Age: 28 | DNP – Played overseas |
| POS. | NO. | TWO-WAY CONTRACTS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SG | #9 | A.J. Lawson | 6’6 | 185 lbs South Carolina | Age: 23 | 15 GP, 3.7 pts, 1.4 reb, 0.1 ast 40% 3P |
| F | #13 | Greg Brown III | 6’7 | 206 lbs Texas | Age: 22 | 16 GP, 1.8 pts, 1.2 reb, 0.3 blk 0.3 stl |
| SG | #17 | Dexter Dennis (R) | 6’5 | 210 lbs Texas A&M | Age: 24 | UNDRAFTED in 2023 |
PAUL’S THOUGHTS:
Projected Record: 32-50, 12th in WEST
MVP: PG Luka Doncic
X-Factor: PG Kyrie Irving
ADD: PF Grant Williams
LOSS: PF Christian Wood (LAL)
Grade: C
After a disaster of a season a year ago, rumors circulated of the growing frustration of Luka Doncic, which led to Dallas taking drastic measures. They decided to package Dorian Finney-Smith and picks to Brooklyn in exchange for Kyrie Irving to try to create a dynamic duo with Luka. The combo didn’t really make much difference as the Mavs narrowly missed the play-in. Kyrie was re-signed and a couple of rookies were brought in in hopes of turning things around. Maxi Kleber, Dwight Powell, and Tim Hardaway Jr. remain the frontcourt headlines, while Grant Williams was signed to give the team some grit in the low post.
Derrick Jones Jr., Richaun Holmes, and Markieff Morris were all brought in as veteran ammunition to aid the bench. Big man and former ESPN #1 recruit out of High School, Dereck Lively II, was brought in to potentially be the new piece to build around in the frontcourt. It’s been a while since Dallas has had a true, dominant, big man and Lively looks to become just that. At only 19, he possesses great potential in the low post as a shot blocker and pick-and-roll threat with the ability to step out and hit the three. They’ll be easing him along, but I wouldn’t be surprised if he quickly overtakes Powell as the starting 5 this season. To me though, this team is still a work in progress and not a real threat in the West. Whenever you have star like Luka and the talent of Kyrie you will be in the mix, but I’m not too smitten on them doing much more than sneaking into the play-in at best.
Houston Rockets
HC: Ime Udoka
1st year in HOU, Career record: 51-31, Playoff record: 14-10 – AGE: 46
| POS. | NO. | STARTERS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C | #28 | Alperen Sengün | 6’11 | 243 lbs Turkey | Age: 21 | 14.8 pts, 9 reb, 3.9 ast, 0.9 blk 0.9 stl |
| PF | #10 | Jabari Smith Jr. | 6’11 | 220 lbs Auburn | Age: 20 | 12.8 pts, 7.2 reb, 1.3 ast, 0.9 blk 0.5 stl |
| SF | #9 | Dillon Brooks | 6’7 | 225 lbs Oregon | Age: 27 | 14.3 pts, 3.3 reb, 2.6 ast, 0.9 stl 32.6% 3P – (MEM) |
| SG | #4 | Jalen Green | 6’4 | 186 lbs G-League | Age: 21 | 22.1 pts, 3.7 reb, 3.7 ast, 0.8 stl 33.8% 3P |
| PG | #5 | Fred VanVleet | 6’0 | 197 lbs Wichita State | Age: 29 | 19.3 pts, 7.2 ast, 4.1 reb, 1.8 stl 34.2% 3P – (TOR) |
| POS. | NO. | BENCH | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SG/SF | #1 | Amen Thompson (R) | 6’7 | 214 lbs Overtime Elite | Age: 20 | DRAFTED: 4th overall by HOU |
| F | #8 | Jae’Sean Tate | 6’5 | 230 lbs Ohio State | Age: 27 | 9.1 pts, 3.8 reb, 2.7 ast, 0.7 stl 0.2 blk |
| SG/SF | #25 | Reggie Bullock | 6’6 | 205 lbs North Carolina | Age: 32 | 7.2 pts, 3.6 reb, 1.4 ast, 0.7 stl 38% 3P – (DAL) |
| C | #2 | Jock Landale | 6’11 | 255 lbs St. Mary’s | Age: 27 | 6.6 pts, 4.1 reb, 1 ast, 0.4 blk 52.8% FG – (PHX) |
| F | #17 | Tari Eason | 6’8 | 215 lbs LSU | Age: 22 | 9.3 pts, 6 reb, 1.2 stl, 1.1 ast 34.3% 3P |
| SF | #7 | Cam Whitmore (R) | 6’7 | 232 lbs Villanova | Age: 19 | DRAFTED: 20th overall by HOU |
| SF | #32 | Jeff Green | 6’8 | 235 lbs Georgetown | Age: 37 | 7.8 pts, 2.6 reb, 1.2 ast, 0.3 stl 0.3 blk – (DEN) |
| PG | #0 | Aaron Holiday | 6’0 | 185 lbs UCLA | Age: 27 | 3.9 pts, 1.4 ast, 1.2 reb, 0.6 stl 40.9% 3P – (ATL) |
| C | #51 | Boban Marjanović | 7’4 | 290 lbs Serbia | Age: 35 | 3.3 pts, 1.9 reb, 0.3 ast, 0.2 stl 68.3% FG |
| SG | Victor Oladipo* (I) | 6’4 | 213 lbs Indiana | Age: 31 | 10.7 pts, 3.5 ast, 3 reb, 1.4 stl 33% 3P – (MIA) |
| POS. | NO. | TWO-WAY CONTRACTS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SG | Nate Hinton | 6’5 | 210 lbs Houston | Age: 24 | DNP – Played in G-League | |
| SG | #19 | Nate Williams | 6’5 | 205 lbs Buffalo | Age: 24 | 5 GP, 10.6 pts, 3 reb, 2 ast 37.5% 3P – (POR) |
| F | #00 | Jermaine Samuels (R) | 6’7 | 230 lbs Villanova | Age: 24 | UNDRAFTED in 2022 |
*Victor Oladipo continues to rehab a torn patellar and will be out indefinitely
PAUL’S THOUGHTS:
Projected Record: 29-53, 13th in WEST
MVP: PG Fred VanVleet
X-Factor: SF Cam Whitmore
ADD: PG Fred VanVleet
LOSS: SG Kevin Porter Jr. (FA)
Grade: C-
After year 3 of the post-James Harden rebuild, the Rockets took a little bit of a different approach to the offseason, acquiring some veterans and new lineup pieces to try to help them compete. After leading the Celtics to the NBA Finals in year 1 and being tossed out of time due to scandal, Ime Udoka takes over this young Rockets squad. NBA champ Fred VanVleet was signed to a 3-year, $130m deal to add another scoring threat to the backcourt with young sniper Jalen Green. Dillon Brooks was also signed to a 4-year, $80m deal after being let go by Memphis, bringing grit and defense to the frontcourt. As well as this, pieces like Reggie Bullock and Jock Landale were added to the second unit.
With their plethora of draft picks, they also brought in highly sought after athletic combo guard Amen Thompson who can potentially become the 3 while Brooks slots into the 4. Cam Whitmore was also stolen at the 20th pick, a fall that I’m still in shock actually happened on draft day as he was seen as a potential top 5 talent. Add these guys to Jabari Smith, Alperen Sengun, and Tari Eason and you have a good young core. It is still a work in progress and one that will probably take a year or two to truly come together. I still think this team is a little incomplete, and the contract given to VanVleet was kind of a head scratcher. Regardless the Rockets could be fun at times this season without being much of a threat.
Memphis Grizzlies
HC: Taylor Jenkins
5th year, Career/Team record: 179-130, Playoff record: 9-14 – AGE: 39
| POS. | NO. | STARTERS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C | #7 | Santi Aldama | 6’11 | 215 lbs Loyola | Age: 22 | 9 pts, 4.8 reb, 1.3 ast, 0.6 blk 35.3% 3P |
| PF | #13 | Jaren Jackson Jr. | 6’11 | 242 lbs Michigan State | Age: 24 | 18.6 pts, 6.8 reb, 3 blk, 1 stl 35.5% 3P |
| F | #8 | Ziaire Williams | 6’9 | 185 lbs Stanford | Age: 22 | 5.7 pts, 2.1 reb, 0.9 ast, 0.4 stl 0.2 blk |
| SG | #22 | Desmond Bane | 6’5 | 215 lbs TCU | Age: 25 | 21.5 pts, 5 reb, 4.4 ast, 1 stl 40.8% 3P |
| PG | #36 | Marcus Smart | 6’4 | 220 lbs Oklahoma State | Age: 29 | 11.5 pts, 6.3 ast, 3.1 reb, 1.5 stl 33.6% 3P – (BOS) |
| POS. | NO. | BENCH | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SG | #10 | Luke Kennard | 6’5 | 206 lbs Duke | Age: 27 | 9.3 pts, 2.7 reb, 1.5 ast, 0.5 stl 49.4% 3P – (LAC/MEM) |
| F | #2 | Xavier Tillman Sr. | 6’8 | 245 lbs Michigan State | Age: 24 | 7 pts, 5 reb, 1.6 ast, 1 stl 0.5 blk |
| PG | #23 | Derrick Rose | 6’3 | 200 lbs Memphis | Age: 35 | 5.6 pts, 1.7 ast, 1.5 reb, 0.3 stl 30.2% 3P – (NYK) |
| F | #27 | David Roddy | 6’5 | 255 lbs Colorado State | Age: 22 | 6.7 pts, 2.8 reb, 0.8 ast, 0.4 stl 0.3 blk |
| G | #46 | John Konchar | 6’5 | 210 lbs Purdue-FW | Age: 27 | 5.1 pts, 4.3 reb, 1.4 ast, 1.1 stl 33.9% 3P |
| F | #3 | Jake LaRavia | 6’7 | 235 lbs Wake Forest | Age: 21 | 3 pts, 1.8 reb, 0.6 ast, 0.3 stl 33.8% 3P |
| PF | #6 | Kenneth Lofton Jr. | 6’8 | 275 lbs Louisiana Tech | Age: 21 | 5 pts, 2.1 reb, 0.8 ast, 0.2 stl 35.3% 3P |
| PG | #12 | Ja Morant* (SUSP) | 6’3 | 174 lbs Murray State | Age: 24 | 26.2 pts, 8.1 ast, 5.9 reb, 1.1 stl 0.3 blk |
| PF/C | #15 | Brandon Clarke** (I) | 6’8 | 215 lbs Gonzaga | Age: 27 | 10 pts, 5.5 reb, 1.3 ast, 0.7 blk 65.6% FG |
| C | #4 | Steven Adams*** (I) | 6’11 | 265 lbs Pittsburgh | Age: 30 | 8.6 pts, 11.5 reb, 2.3 ast, 1.1 blk 59.7% FG |
| POS. | NO. | TWO-WAY CONTRACTS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SG | #5 | Vince Williams Jr. | 6’6 | 205 lbs VCU | Age: 23 | 15 GP, 2 pts, 1 reb, 0.4 stl 0.3 ast |
| PF/C | #45 | G.G. Jackson (R) | 6’9 | 215 lbs South Carolina | Age: 18 | DRAFTED: 45th overall by MEM |
| PG | #0 | Jacob Gilyard (R) | 5’9 | 160 lbs Richmond | Age: 25 | UNDRAFTED in 2022 |
*Ja Morant is suspended for the first 25 games of the season
**Brandon Clarke is rehabbing a torn achilles and will miss the first few months
***Steven Adams had knee surgery and will miss the entire season
PAUL’S THOUGHTS:
Projected Record: 37-45, 9th in WEST
MVP: PG Ja Morant
X-Factor: SF Ziaire Williams
ADD: PG Marcus Smart
LOSS: SF Dillon Brooks (HOU)
Grade: B
The Grizzlies have been completely overshadowed by the constant off the court issues with their star Ja Morant, and rightfully so. We all know the story and it doesn’t need too much attention, but Morant will be sidelined for the first 25 games in consequence. Being out until December will force Memphis to look at their other stars to lead the way including DPOY Jaren Jackson Jr. and Desmond Bane. Marcus Smart was acquired in the offseason, a move that should hold down the PG position while Ja is gone and give them plenty of depth when he is back. Jackson has become one of the league’s most feared defenders, and Bane’s sharpshooting has made him an unlikely star. A lot more will be asked from 2021 lottery pick Ziaire Williams, who slots into the starting 3 with Dillon Brooks on his way out.
Their tremendous job drafting is what has led Memphis back into relevance, and last year’s rookie class of David Roddy, Jake LaRavia, and Kenneth Lofton Jr. just add to that. Brandon Clarke will also be sidelined for potentially half of the season after tearing his achilles in March, and Santi Aldama will step up with an even bigger role as the backup to Steven Adams. I like Memphis a lot but with the long-term absecnces of Morant and Clarke, it will be an uphill battle for them to get off to a good start this season. Ultimately I see them struggling a bit during the season, but getting their legs underneath them and making a run in the playoffs.
New Orleans Pelicans
HC: Willie Green
3rd year, Career/Team record: 78-86, Playoff record: 2-4 – AGE: 42
| POS. | NO. | STARTERS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C | #17 | Jonas Valančiūnas | 6’11 | 265 lbs Lithuania | Age: 31 | 14.1 pts, 10.2 reb, 1.8 ast, 0.7 blk 34.9% 3P |
| PF | #1 | Zion Williamson | 6’6 | 284 lbs Duke | Age: 23 | 26 pts, 7 reb, 4.6 ast, 1.1 stl 60.8% FG |
| F | #5 | Herbert Jones | 6’7 | 206 lbs Alabama | Age: 25 | 9.8 pts, 4.1 reb, 2.5 ast, 1.6 stl 0.6 blk |
| SF | #14 | Brandon Ingram | 6’8 | 190 lbs Duke | Age: 26 | 24.7 pts, 5.8 ast, 5.5 reb, 0.7 stl 39% 3P |
| G | #3 | C.J. McCollum | 6’3 | 190 lbs Lehigh | Age: 32 | 20.9 pts, 5.7 ast, 4.4 reb, 0.9 stl 38.9% 3P |
| POS. | NO. | BENCH | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SF | #8 | Naji Marshall* | 6’7 | 220 lbs Xavier | Age: 25 | 9.1 pts, 3.6 reb, 2.5 ast, 0.7 stl 30.3% 3P |
| F | #22 | Larry Nance Jr. | 6’8 | 245 lbs Wyoming | Age: 30 | 6.8 pts, 5.4 reb, 1.8 ast, 0.9 stl 61% FG |
| C | #40 | Cody Zeller | 6’11 | 240 lbs Indiana | Age: 31 | 6.5 pts, 4.3 reb, 0.7 ast, 0.3 blk 62.7% FG – (MIA) |
| SG | #24 | Jordan Hawkins (R) | 6’5 | 195 lbs UConn | Age: 21 | DRAFTED: 14th overall by NOP |
| PG | #15 | Jose Alvarado | 6’0 | 179 lbs Georgia Tech | Age: 25 | 9 pts, 3 ast, 2.3 reb, 1.1 stl 33.6% 3P |
| G | #11 | Dyson Daniels | 6’8 | 200 lbs G-League | Age: 20 | 3.8 pts, 3.2 reb, 2.3 ast, 0.7 stl 31.4% 3P |
| F | #32 | E.J. Liddell (R) | 6’6 | 240 lbs Ohio State | Age: 22 | DNP – Injured |
| PG | #13 | Kira Lewis Jr. | 6’1 | 170 lbs Alabama | Age: 22 | 4.6 pts, 1.3 reb, 0.9 ast, 0.4 stl 44.1% 3P |
| SG/SF | #25 | Trey Murphy III** (I) | 6’8 | 206 lbs Virginia | Age: 23 | 14.5 pts, 3.6 reb, 1.4 ast, 1.1 stl 40.6% 3P |
| POS. | NO. | TWO-WAY CONTRACTS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SG | #0 | Dereon Seabron | 6’5 | 183 lbs NC State | Age: 23 | 5 GP, 0.8 pts, 0.2 reb, 40% FG |
| SF | #12 | Kaiser Gates (R) | 6’7 | 225 lbs Xavier | Age: 26 | UNDRAFTED in 2018 |
| F | Matt Ryan | 6’6 | 215 lbs Chattanooga | Age: 26 | 3.6 pts, 0.8 reb, 0.5 ast, 0.1 stl 38.1% 3P – (LAL/MIN) |
*Naji Marshall has a knee injury and may miss the first few weeks
**Trey Murphy III has a torn meniscus and will miss a couple months
PAUL’S THOUGHTS:
Projected Record: 37-45, 10th in WEST
MVP: PF Zion Williamson
X-Factor: SG Jordan Hawkins
ADD: SG Jordan Hawkins
LOSS: SG Josh Richardson (MIA)
Grade: C+
I was quite high on the Pelicans aa season ago, thinking that they could be one of the big surprises in the West. I won’t be as optimistic this year. They still do have a good team though, with Ingram, Zion, and McCollum leading the way and a good core. Zion’s health will always be a concern, but so far he looks healthy heading into the new season and hopefully it stays that way. An underrated move was the draft pick of Jordan Hawkins, a lethal scorer who I think is going to be one of the best prospects out of this draft. He can legitimately step into the backcourt this season with McCollum and become a valuable NBA scorer. Him bursting onto the scene could also make a Brandon Ingram extension even more difficult to commit to.
The bench looks practically the same, with Larry Nance as the veteran and young role players Naji Marshall, Dyson Daniels, and Jose Alvarado aiding the second unit. The injury to Trey Murphy will be huge as he became one of NOLA’s key young pieces lasts season but will now miss most of the first half of the year. New Orleans will definitely be a competitor in the play-in, but the the shawty roster and questions about health make it tough to predict them to compete. But maybe I was off by a year and this is the time they’ll break out?
San Antonio Spurs
HC: Gregg Popovich
28th year, Career/Team record: 1,366-761, Playoff record: 170-114 – AGE: 74
| POS. | NO. | STARTERS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C | #1 | Victor Wembanyama (R) | 7’3 | 225 lbs France | Age: 19 | DRAFTED: 1st overall by SAS |
| F | #10 | Jeremy Sochan | 6’8 | 230 lbs Baylor | Age: 20 | 11 pts, 5.3 reb, 2.5 ast, 0.8 stl 0.4 blk |
| SF | #3 | Keldon Johnson | 6’5 | 220 lbs Kentucky | Age: 24 | 22 pts, 5 reb, 2.9 ast, 0.7 stl 32.9% 3P |
| SG | #24 | Devin Vassell | 6’5 | 200 lbs Florida State | Age: 23 | 18.5 pts, 3.9 reb, 3.6 ast, 1.1 stl 38.7% 3P |
| PG | #33 | Tre Jones | 6’1 | 185 lbs Duke | Age: 23 | 12.9 pts, 6.6 ast, 3.6 reb, 1.3 stl 45.9% FG |
| POS. | NO. | BENCH | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PF/C | #23 | Zach Collins | 6’11 | 250 lbs Gonzaga | Age: 25 | 11.6 pts, 6.4 reb, 2.9 ast, 0.8 blk 37.4% 3P |
| SF | #16 | Cedi Osman | 6’7 | 230 lbs Turkey | Age: 28 | 8.7 pts, 2.3 reb, 1.5 ast, 0.5 stl 37.2% 3P – (CLE) |
| SG/SF | #22 | Malaki Branham | 6’4 | 180 lbs Ohio State | Age: 20 | 10.2 pts, 2.7 reb, 1.9 ast, 0.5 stl 30.2% 3P |
| PG | #4 | Devonte’ Graham | 6’1 | 195 lbs Kansas | Age: 28 | 7.4 pts, 2.7 ast, 1.7 reb, 0.6 stl 35.2% 3P |
| SF | #17 | Doug McDermott | 6’6 | 225 lbs Creighton | Age: 31 | 10.2 pts, 2.2 reb, 1.4 ast, 0.2 stl 41.3% 3P |
| F | #30 | Julian Champagnie | 6’9 | 210 lbs St. John’s | Age: 22 | 9.7 pts, 3.5 reb, 0.6 ast, 0.4 stl 40.2% 3P – (PHI/SAS) |
| SG/SF | #25 | Sidy Cissoko (R) | 6’7 | 225 lbs G-League | Age: 19 | DRAFTED: 44th overall by SAS |
| G | #14 | Blake Wesley | 6’4 | 190 lbs Notre Dame | Age: 20 | 5 pts, 2.7 ast, 2.2 reb, 0.7 stl 38.5% 3P |
| PF/C | #54 | Sandro Mamukelashvili | 6’10 | 240 lbs Seton Hall | Age: 24 | 6.1 pts, 4.3 reb, 1.4 ast, 0.4 blk 0.3 stl |
| C | #28 | Charles Bassey | 6’9 | 230 lbs Western Kentucky | Age: 22 | 5.7 pts, 5.5 reb, 1.3 ast, 0.9 blk 64.4% FG |
| POS. | NO. | TWO-WAY CONTRACTS | HT/WT/College/Age | 2022-23 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PF | #26 | Dominick Barlow | 6’10 | 222 lbs USA | Age: 20 | 3.9 pts, 3.6 reb, 0.9 ast, 0.7 blk 53.5% FG |
| SG | #11 | Sir’Jabari Rice (R) | 6’4 | 170 lbs Texas | Age: 24 | UNDRAFTED in 2023 |
| C | #27 | Charles Bediako (R) | 6’11 | 220 lbs Arkansas | Age: 21 | UNDRAFTED in 2023 |
PAUL’S THOUGHTS:
Projected Record: 24-58, 14th in WEST
MVP: C Victor Wembanyama
X-Factor: C Victor Wembanyama
ADD: C Victor Wembanyama
LOSS: SF Keita Bates-Diop (PHX)
Grade: D+
The Spurs have struggled over the last several seasons mightily and this has led way to potentially bringing in the biggest prospect of the past 20 years. In what seems to be typical Spurs look, they landed the top pick in the 2023 draft, bringing in 7’4 Victor Wembanyama. Just about anything that an NBA player can do on the basketball court, Wemby can do to the highest degree. He can defend many positions, handle the ball, has a high IQ passing, great jump shooter, and oh yeah is 7’4 and is a ferocious rim protecting presence. All of this mixed up can equal the best thing we’ve seen in a long time. But even with the greatness projected of their young star, the Spurs have a ways to go to build a winner.
The one thing they will have though is their long-time HC and the winningest coach in NBA history, Gregg Popovich. Pop signed a 6-year extension this offseason despite retirement rumors, and it’s not too difficult to see why. He’ll be coaching up to his 80’s now and will look to form a new winner in San Antonio as he did in the ’90s. A few good pieces do exist, but the roster is filled with mostly low end talent that are trying to make names for themselves. They won’t have an amazing season, but will be a fun watch with Victor entering year one of what can be a historic career.
The Sports World According To Paul 