Three NBA Teams to Watch in the 2024-25 Season

As the 2024-25 NBA season approaches, several teams are positioning themselves to make a significant impact. While powerhouse franchises dominate headlines, there are a few under-the-radar teams that could make waves. Here are three teams to keep an eye on as they gear up for the upcoming season.

1. Sacramento Kings

Key Players: De'Aaron Fox, Domantas Sabonis, DeMar DeRozan

2023-24 Record: 46-36 (9th in Western Conference)

(Ed Szczepanski-USA TODAY Sports)

The Sacramento Kings are poised to take another step forward this season, thanks in part to their acquisition of veteran forward DeMar DeRozan during the 2024 summer free agency period. DeRozan, who averaged 24 points per game last year with the Chicago Bulls, brings veteran leadership and scoring prowess to an already talented young roster.

De'Aaron Fox, the Kings' explosive point guard, is coming off a career year in which he averaged 26.6 points per game while shooting nearly 37% from beyond the arc. Forward Domantas Sabonis also played a key role last season, averaging 19.4 points and dominating the boards. With DeRozan now in the mix, Sacramento has a strong core capable of making a playoff push. The combination of Fox’s playmaking, Sabonis’ versatility, and DeRozan’s scoring makes the Kings a team to watch in the loaded Western Conference.

2. Memphis Grizzlies

Key Players: Ja Morant, Marcus Smart, Jaren Jackson Jr.

2023-24 Record: 27-55 (13th in Western Conference)

(Ja Morant and Desmond Bane/Memphis Grizzlies)

The Memphis Grizzlies are looking to bounce back after a tumultuous 2023-24 season, marked by Ja Morant’s off-the-court issues and injuries. Morant, one of the league's most electrifying players, is returning to the lineup after missing significant time last season. His dynamic playstyle and ability to score at will will be crucial for Memphis as they aim to contend in the West.

In addition to Morant, the Grizzlies added defensive ace Marcus Smart, who has a championship pedigree from his time with the Boston Celtics. Smart, a former Defensive Player of the Year, averaged 14 points per game last season and will bring toughness and leadership to a Memphis squad looking to make a deep playoff run.

However, the recent hamstring injury to Jaren Jackson Jr., a key piece of their frontcourt, could be a concern as the season progresses. Jackson averaged 22.5 points and 5.5 rebounds per game last year, making him a vital contributor to Memphis' success. If he returns healthy, the Grizzlies could be a formidable force in the West.

3. Minnesota Timberwolves

Key Players: Anthony Edwards, Rudy Gobert, Julius Randle

2023-24 Record: 56-26 (Western Conference Finals Appearance)

The Minnesota Timberwolves made a surprise run to the Western Conference Finals last season, their deepest playoff push since 2004. Anthony Edwards, fresh off his participation in the 2024 Paris Olympics, emerged as a rising superstar, averaging 25.9 points per game and shooting 35.7% from beyond the arc. At just 23 years old, Edwards is quickly becoming the face of the franchise and has Timberwolves fans excited for the future.

(Minnesota Timberwolves 2024-25 Season)

The biggest change for Minnesota just last week was the blockbuster trade that sent Karl-Anthony Towns to the New York Knicks in exchange for Julius Randle. This shakeup leaves questions about the team's chemistry, but Randle, who brings a strong inside game and the ability to stretch the floor, could be a solid complement to Edwards. Alongside defensive anchor Rudy Gobert, Minnesota still has a strong foundation to build upon.

While the team may not be a clear Finals contender after Towns' departure, the Timberwolves remain a team to watch as they navigate the competitive Western Conference with a new-look roster.