The 2024-25 NBA season is off to an exciting start, with teams and players making significant early impressions, but many of the reactions are likely overblown given the small sample size. While fans and analysts are quick to jump to conclusions, it’s important to remember that with over 70 games left, there’s plenty of time for teams to turn things around or cool off. Historically, teams that start hot in the first few weeks can fade later in the season, and vice versa.
Among the early season surprises, the Phoenix Suns have been particularly impressive, starting with a 4-1 record. The team’s big three—Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal—look poised to lead the Suns to a deep playoff run after a disappointing sweep in last year’s playoffs. In addition to the star power, the Suns have bolstered their roster with Tyus Jones and Mason Plumlee, adding depth and versatility. The real question for Phoenix will be maintaining the health and chemistry of their core players, as they struggled with injuries last season when Durant, Beal, and Booker played just 41 games together.
The Los Angeles Lakers also showed early promise, with a strong 3-0 start, fueled by Anthony Davis’s MVP-caliber performances. However, the Lakers have struggled in their last two games, highlighting the need for improved bench production and contributions from players like Austin Reeves and D’Angelo Russell. If those players step up, the Lakers could be a major threat come playoff time. Additionally, the hiring of former NBA player JJ Redick as head coach has already begun to show positive results, particularly with the team’s ball movement and set plays.
Just outside of the Bay Area, the Golden State Warriors are showing signs of returning to their championship-winning form. Despite an easy schedule, they lead the league in points scored, and Buddy Hield, signed after the departure of Klay Thompson, has been an excellent addition. Hield leads the NBA in three-pointers and has helped fill the scoring void, averaging 21 points per game on 50% shooting from deep. With strong depth and the leadership of Steph Curry, the Warriors appear to be back in championship contention, although Thompson’s absence remains an emotional blow for the team.
In the Eastern Conference, the Cleveland Cavaliers have impressed with a perfect 5-0 start, their best since 2016. The team’s chemistry is flourishing, with backcourt stars Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland playing well together alongside the formidable frontcourt duo of Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley. The Cavaliers have solidified themselves as a potential top-three team in the East, thanks to a more balanced offense and defense under new coach Kenny Atkinson. The key for Cleveland will be avoiding injuries, as they’ve faced setbacks in previous seasons, including Mitchell’s injury during last year’s playoffs.
On the flip side, the Milwaukee Bucks are facing a rocky start to the season, leaving fans questioning the team’s direction. Despite acquiring Damian Lillard to pair with Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Bucks have shown no clear identity on the court. With their current struggles and an underperforming Lillard, the Bucks’ future is uncertain. There are even whispers about potentially trading Giannis if things don’t improve, though such a move seems premature given his talent and history with the team. Additionally, the firing of head coach Adrian Griffin and the subsequent hiring of Doc Rivers has only added to the sense of instability.
The defending champion Boston Celtics have also made waves, starting the season with a 4-1 record and looking like strong contenders to repeat. With their impressive depth, two-way stars like Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, and additions like Jrue Holiday, the Celtics are a balanced team with few weaknesses. The bigger challenge for them will be getting through the playoffs and maintaining their level of play as they seek to become the first team since 2017-18 to win back-to-back championships. The Celtics’ depth and two-way dominance make them a formidable force in the East.
The Western Conference remains as competitive as ever, with numerous teams vying for a chance at the NBA Finals. In addition to the Suns, Lakers, and Warriors, teams like the Denver Nuggets, Dallas Mavericks, and Oklahoma City Thunder are also in the mix. The West is a crowded field of veteran stars like LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Steph Curry, alongside young talents like Luka Doncic, Ja Morant, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. This generational clash promises a thrilling season as both established superstars and rising stars chase championship glory.
