2019/20 NBA Season Preview
- Philip Jurkovsky
- Oct 22, 2019
- 32 min read
Updated: Oct 23, 2019
It felt like only yesterday the Raptors and Warriors were doing battle in game 6 of the 2018/19 Finals series, yet the 2019/20 NBA season is already upon us.
With a stacked draft class, multiple key injuries and perhaps the most eventful free agency/trade period of recent times, the 2019/20 NBA calendar is set to be one the of most open season's in recent history.
Here is all you need to know about every team's off season movements, draftees and predictions for the upcoming season which kicks off tomorrow.
Thanks to ESPN, NBA, Lineups & Clutchpoints.
ATLANTA HAWKS
Coach: Lloyd Pierce
Key Ins: Allen Crabbe (BKN), Damian Jones (GSW), Jabari Parker (WAS), Chandler Parsons (MEM), Evan Turner (POR).
Key Outs: Kent Bazemore (POR), Dewayne Dedmon (SAC), Miles Plumlee (MEM), Taurean Prince (BKN), Omari Spellman (GSW).
Draft: Round 1 (4): De'Andre Hunter (SF/PF), Round 1 (10): Cam Reddish (SF), Round 2 (4): Bruno Fernando (C)
Expected Starting Lineup:
PG: Trae Young SG: Kevin Huerter SF: De'Andre Hunter PF: John Collins C: Alex Len
Last Season: 29-53
Prediction:
The Hawks have modeled their rebuild on the blueprints of the Golden State Warriors dynasty. Trae Young is Curry 2.0, Kevin Huerter has the makings of Klay 2.0 and if John Collins can offer even half as much of production as Draymond Green, then the Hawks are certainly on the right track. They are probably a season or two away from being a true contender, however if De'Andre Hunter and Cam Reddish can develop quickly, the Hawks might prove to be a real challenger this season. Between 29-34 Wins
BOSTON CELTICS
Coach: Brad Stevens
Key Ins: Enes Kanter (POR), Kemba Walker (CHA)
Key Outs: Aron Baynes (PHX), Al Horford (PHI), Kyrie Irving (BKN), Marcus Morris (NYK), Terry Rozier (CHA)
Draft: Round 1 (14): Romeo Langford (SF), Round 1 (22): Grant Williams (PF), Round 2 (3): Carson Edwards (PG), Round 2 (21): Tremont Waters (PG)
Expected Starting Lineup:
PG: Kemba Walker SG: Jaylen Brown SF: Gordon Hayward PF: Jayson Tatum C: Enes Kanter
Last Season: 49-33
Prediction:
You can't be blamed for feeling a little concerned when you look at the Celtics' outs. You could make a very decent starting line-up out of their departures. Horford and Baynes are a big loss in big man depth, however Boston has never really had a dominant Center since Kendrick Perkins (although they did win a championship with him). Kyrie was an expected, yet sizeable departure for the Celtics, however Danny Ainge worked his magic as usual and plucked Kemba Walker right out of the heart of the Hornets. People might be sleeping on how good Kemba actually is. He averaged 31 points in the opening 7 games of last season and put up 60 points against the 76ers mid way through the year. His slight drop off is probably due to carrying the Hornets all year, so imagine Kemba's output on a good team. I'm tipping Jayson Tatum to have a break out season and average over 20PPG. Boston have managed to find some hidden gems in this years draft, including their second round selection in Carson Edwards proving to be a straight up bucket-getter. It might take a few weeks for this lineup to gel, but once they get going the Celtics could be a real contender come playoffs. 50-55 Wins
BROOKLYN NETS
Coach: Kenny Atkinson
Key Ins: Wilson Chandler (LAC), Kevin Durant (GSW), Henry Ellenson (NYK), Kyrie Irving (BOS), DeAndre Jordan (NYK), David Nwaba (CLE), Taurean Prince (ATL), Garrett Temple (LAC).
Key Outs: DeMarre Carroll (SAS), Allen Crabbe (ATL), Ed Davis (UTA), Jared Dudley (LAL), Rondae Hollis-Jefferson (TOR), Shabazz Napier (MIN), D'Angelo Russell (GSW)
Draft: Round 2 (1): Nic Claxton (C), Round 2 (26): Jaylen Hands (PG),
Expected Starting Lineup:
PG: Kyrie Irving SG: Joe Harris SF: Caris LeVert PF: Taurean Prince C: DeAndre Jordan
Last Season: 42-40
Prediction:
Four words accurately describes Brooklyn moving forward..Key Ins: Irving, Durant. This would most likely be the biggest off-seasons haul in existence, however Paul George and Kawhi Leonard went to the Clippers, as well Anthony Davis teaming up with Lebron James in the same season. So that kind of takes away a bit of the emphasis from this free agency move, however Kyrie and KD instantly pushes the Nets up to a powerhouse of the NBA. It's amazing how quickly this franchise went from a dumpster fire with years of no first round draft picks, to a genuine contender for the next few seasons. Now of course we know Durant will most likely miss the entire 2019/20 season with his Achilles injury, however the Nets still have the talent to push towards a playoff berth. They manged to secure themselves the sixth seed in the East last season, and with Kyrie being a step up from D'Angelo Russell (not taking anything away from Russell's impressive 2018/19 campaign), as well as some exciting young talent in Caris LeVert and surprise package Rodions Kurucs, the Nets should be thereabouts the sixth seed once more. 40/45 Wins
CHARLOTTE HORNETS
Coach: James Borrego
Key Ins: Terry Rozier (BOS)
Key Outs: Frank Kaminsky (PHX), Jeremy Lamb (IND), Tony Parker, Kemba Walker (BOS).
Draft: Round 1 (12): PJ Washington (PF), Round 2 (6): Cody Martin (SF), Round 2 (22) Jalen McDaniels (PF)
Expected Starting Lineup:
PG: Terry Rozier SG: Dwayne Bacon SF: Miles Bridges PF: Marvin Williams C: Cody Zeller
Last Season: 39-43
Prediction:
The hornets lost their identity and shining light when they refused to pay Kemba. Yet instead, they threw $18,900,000 at Terry Rozier for three years. Rozier was always on the fringe of being a starter, with constant debate on whether or not he could lead a team from the point. Well he has now been given that opportunity and we're now about to find out what Rozier can truly produce with starter minutes. Last season, when starting, Rozier averaged 16.0 PPG, 5.3 RPG, 4.7 APG, 2.3 SPG, 56.7 FG%, 47.1 3P%. Despite losing their franchise player, the Hornets do have some solid talent in their youth program, with Miles Bridges, Dwayne Bacon and the number 12 pick in this years draft PJ Washington providing some hope for the Charlotte fan base. Unfortunately I can't see the Hornets 2019/20 campaign providing much joy to their fan base. 19/24 Wins
CHICAGO BULLS
Coach: Jim Boylen
Key Ins: Luke Kornet (NYK), Tomas Satoransky (WAS), Thaddeus Young (IND).
Key Outs: Robin Lopez (MIL)
Draft: Round 1 (7): Coby White (PG), Round 2 (8): Daniel Gafford (C)
Expected Starting Lineup:
PG: Tomas Satoransky SG: Zach Lavine SF: Otto Porter Jr. PF: Lauri Markkanen C: Wendell Carter Jr.
Last Season: 22-60
Prediction:
The Bulls are doing everything right to build their roster back up to Championship potential. It has been a grim few years for this once powerhouse, with many of the blame been directed towards John Paxson and Gar Forman (aka GarPax) for their recent roster decisions, however there can be no denying the front office of the Bulls have done extremely well in how the roster currently shapes up. Zach Lavine was a steal, averaging 23.7PPG last season and will be looking to further improve his impact this year. Lauri Markkanen and Wendell Carter Jr will be a dominant front court for the Bulls for years to come. The point guard position, however, has been an issue for Chicago ever since losing Derrick Rose. Kris Dunn was brought across from the Timberwolves through the Jimmy Butler trade, along with Lavine and the draft rights to Markkanen (what a trade that has been for the Bulls), however Dunn hasn't been able to solidify himself as a starting PG. It looks like Satoransky will be the starting PG to begin the season, however Chicago will be hoping their first draft pick this year in Coby White will be ready to take over the mantle and find himself starting at the point towards the end of the year. Thaddeus Young is an underrated pickup and with the Bulls only losing Robin Lopez this offseason, Chicago should easily exceed their total wins of 22 last year. I have them falling just shy of .500. 34-39 Wins
CLEVELAND CAVALIERS
Coach: John Beilein
Key Ins: N/A
Key Outs: Marquese Chriss (GSW), David Nwaba (BKN), J.R. Smith
Draft: Round 1 (5): Darius Garland (PG), Round 1 (26): Dylan Windler (SF), Round 1 (30): Kevin Porter Jr (SG)
Expected Starting Lineup:
PG: Collin Sexton SG: Darius Garland SF: Cedi Osman PF: Kevin Love C: Tristan Thompson
Last Season: 19-63
Prediction:
The Cavs were unable to acquire anyone this off-season. With Lebron gone, Cleveland is no longer a destination franchise, so the roster will now have to be filled by going to the draft. And that they did. The Cavs were able to pick up some solid talent in this years draft, with Darius Garland being a very exciting prospect. Cleveland have now drafted two Point Guards with their first pick in successive drafts which has raised a few eyebrows. However, it is clear the Cavs took the best available talent with their fifth pick and will try and make the back court of Colin Sexton and Garland work. And if it doesn't, well considering this season is sure to be a disappointing one for the team, both players can use it as a tryout for the starting Point Guard spot for the next decade in Cleveland. Kevin Love and Tristan Thompson will go around again, and with a combined salary of $36.5 million, it is no surprise the Cavs were unable to bring in any external talent. Love will most likely find himself a new home mid season, which will further reduce Cleveland's total wins this season. 17-22 Wins
DALLAS MAVERICKS
Coach: Rick Carlisle
Key Ins: Seth Curry (POR), Boban Marjanovic (PHI), Wright (MEM)
Key Outs: Kostas Antetokounmpo (LAL), Trey Burke (PHI), Daryl Macon (MIA), Dirk Nowitzki :(
Draft: No selections
Expected Starting Lineup:
PG: Delon Wright SG: Luka Doncic SF: Tim Hardaway Jr. PF: Kristaps Porzingis C: Dwight Powell
Last Season: 33-49
Prediction:
Dallas recorded their worst record since 1997/98 with a record off 33/49, which isn't really that bad considering they still finished above six other teams last season. However, with Mark Cuban as your owner, I can't imagine mediocrity being tolerated. And I don't think Cuban will have to worry for too long, with Dallas set to rise back up the ranks in quick fashion with the signing of Kristaps Pozingis pairing him alongside fellow European star Luka Doncic. Assuming both stay healthy, this pair will dominate the NBA for the next decade. The key point being health. Porzingis has had an injury plagued start to his short NBA career, not having played for over 19 months following surgery to repair his torn left anterior cruciate ligament. Porzingis has looked very promising during the pre-season fixture however, and Dallas will be praying the big Latvian will stay injury free this season. Delon Wright was a solid pick-up and Seth Curry and Boban Marjanovic are both very nice bench pieces. Hardaway Jr should flourish as the third scoring option and Doncic is poised for a mammoth sophomore season. 40-45 Wins
DENVER NUGGETS
Coach: Michael Malone
Key Ins: P.J. Dozier (BOS), Jerami Grant (OKC).
Key Outs: Brandon Goodwin (ATL), Tyler Lydon (SAC), Trey Lyles (SAS), Isaiah Thomas (WAS)
Draft: Round 2 (14): Bol Bol
Expected Starting Lineup:
Last Season: 54-28
Prediction:
The Nuggets were the big improves of last season, finishing with 54 wins (only 3 away from top seed in the West). Improvement has been the key to Malone's coaching style, with the Nuggets increasing their overall record every season over the past five years. And there is nothing stopping them from improving once again. Denver were able to keep their already strong core from leaving and were able to add some handy pieces to their already incredibly deep bench. Although Jerami Grant was the only real key in for them, Denver will be hoping star prospect Michael Porter Jr will be able to contribute after missing the entirety of his rookie season through injury. If Porter Jr is able to recover from his back issues, he will prove to be a very handy boost for the Nuggets. The West has always been strong and it has only become stronger. This could see Denver slip from second seed, but their depth and star players in Jamal Murray and Nikola Jokica, accompanied with their outrageous home record (2018/19 league best 34-7 home record), will see them with another solid season. 51-56 Wins
DETROIT PISTONS
Coach: Dwane Casey
Key Ins: Tim Frazier (MIL), Joe Johnson, Markieff Morris (OKC), Derrick Rose (MIN), Tony Snell (MIL), Christian Wood (NOP)
Key Outs: Wayne Ellington (NYK), Zaza Pachulia, Glenn Robinson III (GSW), Ish Smith (WAS)
Draft: Round 1 (15): Sekou Doumbouya (PF), Round 2 (7): Deividas Sirvydis (SF), Round 2 (15): Isiah Roby (PF), Round 2 (27): Jordan Bone (PG)
Expected Starting Lineup:
Last Season: 41-41
Prediction:
The Pistons finished with a .500 record which perfectly illustrates where they are at as a franchise. Not great, not bad, just there. They managed to pinch the eighth seed in the Eastern Playoffs, yet were swept by the Milwaukee Bucks. Detroit will probably be thereabouts again this season, with Blake Griffin and Andrew Drummond providing a formidably opposing front court duo. Derrick Rose is a very nice acquisition who will provide a great boost off the bench. The question is will Rose end up as starting Point Guard at seasons end. Reggie Jackson has been the starting PG for the last three seasons in Detroit, however hasn't really been that productive during his time in motor city. Although this is a contract year for Jackson so we might see a big improvement on his end. Markieff Morris and Tony Snell provide some good depth at the forward position, with Snell more than likely to start at the SF position. Sekou Doumbouya was a fascinating selection with the 15th pick. Doumbouya will take time to develop and will unlikely feature this season, however he is a good prospect to have with the uncertain future of Griffin in Detroit. 36-41 Wins
GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS
Coach: Steve Kerr
Key Ins: Alec Burks (SAC), Willie Cauley-Stein (SAC), Marquese Chriss (CLE), Glenn Robinson III (DET), D'Angelo Russell (BKN), Omari Spellman (ATL).
Key Outs: Jordan Bell (MIN), Andrew Bogut, Quinn Cook (LAL), DeMarcus Cousins (LAL), Kevin Durant (BKN), Andre Iguodala (MEM), Jonas Jerebko, Damian Jones (ATL), Shaun Livingston, Alfonzo McKinnie
Draft: Round 1 (28): Jordan Poole (SG), Round 2 (9): Alen Smailagic (C), Round 2 (11): Eric Paschall (PF)
Expected Starting Lineup:
Last Season: 57-25
Prediction:
For the first time in recent years we are unsure of who will win the Championship. The past four seasons has had the Warriors as sure things to win it all, and with Steph Curry, Klay Thompson, Kevin Durant and Draymond Green as your big four, there is not a single dispute as to why they were favorites. However, Durant is gone, Klay is injured and Draymond's defensive load will be excessive. Although all this means is that the return of MVP Curry is imminent. Durant signing with the Warriors robbed the NBA world of prime Curry. In his first MVP season (before KD arrived), Curry average 30.1 PPG, 5.4 RPG, 6.7 APG, shooting 45% from the 3 as well as being a part of the 50,40,90 club. Oh, and he also made 402 3-pointers. I think we're about to see something special from Curry this season, and for the Warriors to compete again, he is going to have to. They lost KD but with the empty salary room the Warriors were able to acquire De'Angelo Russell with a sign-and-trade deal. The back-court combo of Curry and Russell is going to put up insane offensive numbers, however teams will be able to bully both on the defensive end. I've always said Klay was the most important piece of the Warriors dynasty, and not being able to rely on him to defend the best opposing guard should prove that theory right until his return. That is if he returns, with coach Steve Kerr recently stating he wouldn't be surprised if the star Shooting Guard doesn't play at all this season. This makes it very difficult to predict how Golden State will do this season. My gut is telling me not to write them off, but their lack of depth and key outs are a concern. Wins 41-46
HOUSTON ROCKETS
Coach: Mike D'Antoni
Key Ins: Ryan Anderson (MIA), Tyson Chandler (LAL), Thabo Sefolosha (UTA), Russell Westbrook (OKC)
Key Outs: Kenneth Faried, Michael Frazier, Chris Paul (OKC), Iman Shumpert
Draft: No selections
Expected Starting Lineup:
PG: Russel Westbrook SG: James Harden SF: Eric Gordon PF: P.J. Tucker C: Clint Capela
Last Season: 53-29
Prediction:
There are concerns on whether or not Russell Westbrook and James Harden can co-exist and function alongside each other. I think people are forgetting the same doubts surrounded this team when Chris Paul signed with the Rockets, and they were a Chris Paul injury away from making the Finals. It will take some time to get used to, but I have no doubt this back-court combination will work. The talent is there, the hunger is there and the chemistry will prove to be the biggest factor in the success of the Houston guard duo. Gerald Green unfortunately suffered a potential season ending injury which dramatically effects the Rockets' depth, considering they were ranked last in bench minutes (27.2) and bench scoring (27.0) last season. Eric Gordon will need to have a big year as the third scoring option. P.J. Tucker and Clint Capela round out a formidable starting line-up, however the lack of depth will mean Westbrook and Harden will need to play some serious minutes throughout the season. But I guess that is something both players are used to. Expect another deep push in the finals from the Rockets. 53-58 Wins
INDIANA PACERS
Coach: Nate McMillan
Key Ins: Malcolm Brogdon (MIL), Justin Holiday (MEM), Jeremy Lamb (CHA), T.J. McConnell (PHI), T.J. Warren (PHX)
Key Outs: Bojan Bogdanovic (UTA), Darren Collison, Tyreke Evans, Cory Joseph (SAC), Wesley Matthews (MIL), Kyle O'Quinn (PHI), Thaddeus Young (CHI)
Draft: Round 1 (18): Goga Bitadze (C)
Expected Starting Lineup:
PG: Malcolm Brogdon SG: Victor Oladipo SF: T.J. Warren PF: Domantas Sabonis C: Myles Turner
Last Season: 48-34
Prediction:
This is my team to watch. I love everything about what the Pacers did this off-season, albeit, losing Bojan Bogdanovic and Thaddeus Young are some decent losses. Indiana did however manage to sign former rookie of the year Malcolm Brogdon, who will carry the load until the return of Victor Oladipo, and is very capable of doing so. The pacers also acquired T.J. Warren from Pheonix who will be a more than serviceable addition to their wing spot and could prove to be the biggest steal from this off-season. Domantas Sabonis was a sixth-man of the year candidate last season and will now be given the starting job at the Power Forward position in the absence of Thaddeus Young. Myles Turner is on the verge of exploding this season after an impressive 2018/19 campaign. Jeremy Lamb, Justin Holiday and T.J. McConnell are some nice bench pieces in addition to an already solid bench unit. The Pacers just need to perform well and win games until Oladipo can return. Indiana have been knocked out of the playoffs in the first round in the past four consecutive years. I expect them to break that drought. 43-49 Wins
LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS
Coach: Doc Rivers
Key Ins: Paul George (OKC), Moe Harkless (POR), Kawhi Leonard (TOR), Patrick Patterson (OKC)
Key Outs: Wilson Chandler (BKN), Danilo Gallinari (OKC), Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (OKC), Garrett Temple (BKN),
Draft: Round 1 (27): Mfiondu Kabengele (C), Round 2 (18): Terance Mann (SF)
Expected Starting Lineup:
PG: Patrick Beverley SG: Kawhi Leonard SF: Paul George PF: JaMychal Green C: Ivaca Zubac
Last Season: 48-34
Prediction:
Last season the Clippers ended the season with a 48-34 record and managed to steal an away game off the hot favourites in the Golden State Warriors in the first round of the playoffs. This exceeded all expectations that the little brother of Los Angeles had heading into the season. Now they have added the reigning Finals MVP in Kawhi Leonard, along with Paul George who finished top 3 in the season MVP voting and the Defensive Player of the Year award. They’ve basically signed two of the best two-way players in the world and put them on the same team. There is no wonder they wanted to play with each other, they now have the luxury of taking turns defending the biggest offensive threat, meaning more rest and more offensive output. Both LA teams are expected to make it deep in the playoffs, so if the Clippers come up against the Lakers, PG and Kawhi will no doubt take turns defending Lebron. Then you add Patrick Beverley into the equation, and this becomes one of the best defensive line-ups in history. They are also stacked on the offensive side. We know what Kawhi and PG can do, but then you get Lou Williams and Landry Shamet coming off the bench. Mixed with two solid team-first players in JaMychal Green and Montrezl Harrell, the Clippers are going to be a monster hard to contain. Paul George’s injury to start the year will be the only thing stopping them from a 60+ win season. 52-57 Wins
LOS ANGELES LAKERS
Coach: Frank Vogel
Key Ins: Kostas Antetokounmpo (DAL), Avery Bradley (MEM), Quinn Cook (GSW), DeMarcus Cousins (GSW), Troy Daniels (PHX), Anthony Davis (NOP), Jared Dudley (BKN), Danny Green (TOR), TDwight Howard (WAS)
Key Outs: Lonzo Ball (NOP), Isaac Bonga (WAS), Reggie Bullock (NYK), Tyson Chandler (HOU), Josh Hart (NOP), Brandon Ingram (NOP), Mike Muscala (OKC), Lance Stephenson, Moritz Wagner (WAS)
Draft: Round 2 (16): Talen Horton-Tucker (SF)
Expected Starting Lineup:
PG: Rajon Rondo SG: Danny Green SF: LeBron James PF: Anthony Davis C: JaVale McGee
Last Season: 37-45
Prediction:
The Lakers 2018/19 campaign was one the franchise would be hoping to quickly forget. They signed arguably the biggest free agent in recent history in LeBron James yet failed to make the playoffs in the West. To be fair, they were on track to push for top 4 until LeBron injured his groin on Christmas Day. They were 25-21 midway through January, then only managed to win 12 more games for the rest of the season. Accompanied by the failure in trading for Anthony Davis and the resulting drop in team chemistry, last season was a Train-wreck. Yet here we are, the Lakers have restored order in the NBA and are once again favourites to win the Championship. LeBron is healthy and looking just as good at the age of 34 than he did in his rookie year. Not to mention this is the first time since 2006 LeBron will play a season after missing the playoffs. A rested LeBron is a scary LeBron. Despite the breakdown of last season, AD found his way to LA through a lucrative trade package that saw the Lakers ship off their entire future. But if that means pairing LeBron and AD together, I’d happily pay for the shipping costs. The injury to DeMarcus Cousins was a blow, now the Lakers must put their faith in the forgotten man Dwight Howard and JaVale McGee to hold up the Center position. Besides Klay Thompson, Danny Green is probably the perfect player to play alongside LeBron. He can defend and he will knock down every 3-point attempt LeBron will no doubt offer him. Kyle Kuzma is also dealing with injury concerns but should find his way back into the line-up sooner rather than later. This is the team to beat. 50-55 Wins
MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES
Coach: Taylor Jenkins
Key Ins: Grayson Allen (UTA), Brandon Clarke (R), Jae Crowder (UTA), Solomon Hill (NOP), Josh Jackson (PHX), Tyus Jones (MIN), De'Anthony Melton (PHX), Miles Plumlee (ATL).
Key Outs: Avery Bradley (LAL), Jevon Carter (PHX), Mike Conley (UTA), Justin Holiday (IND), C.J. Miles (WAS), Joakim Noah, Chandler Parsons (ATL), Wright (DAL)
Draft: Round 1 (2): Ja Morant (PG), Round 1 (21): Brandon Clarke (PF)
Expected Starting Lineup:
PG: Ja Morant
SG: Dillon Brookes
SF: Jae Crowder
PF: Jaren Jackson Jr.
C: Jonas Valanciunas
Last Season: 33-49
Prediction:
It’s a new era for Memphis with journeymen Marc Gasol and Mike Conley no longer part of the franchise moving forward. There is no denying a rebuild is on the cards, however fans won’t have to wait too long for their team to rise to contention again, with the Grizzlies drafting Jaren Jackson Jr. and Ja Morant in subsequent drafts. Despite the latter yet to play a proper game for the Grizzlies, both players have huge potential to be a dominant duo for the next decade in the NBA. Memphis have a new coach, a new general manager and a new vice president heading into this season, indicating the franchise is all in on this rebuild. They picked up a nice young prospect in Brandon Clarke with their second pick, and along with Dillon Brookes, Kyle Anderson, Tyus Jones, Josh Jackson and De’Anthony Melton, the Grizzlies have a good young core to build around. It will take time however, so I’m not expecting too much from Memphis. 22-27 Wins.
MIAMI HEAT
Coach: Erik Spoelstra
Key Ins: Jimmy Butler (PHI), Meyers Leonard (POR), Daryl Macon (DAL)
Key Outs: Ryan Anderson (HOU), Josh Richardson (PHI), Dwyane Wade, Hassan Whiteside (POR)
Draft: Round 1 (13): Tyler Herro (SG), Round 2 (2): KZ Okpala (SF)
Expected Starting Lineup:
PG: Goran Dragic
SG: Jimmy Butler
SF: Justice Winslow
PF: Kelly Olynk
C: Bam Adebayo
Last Season: 39/43
Prediction:
Miami were in desperate need of a star and they landed themselves one this off-season in Jimmy Butler. This seems like the perfect match. Butler basically gets the keys to a franchise and gets to be the man again. The Heat let go of Josh Richardson, who was very serviceable last season, in the Butler trade to the 76ers. Hassan Whiteside was sent to Portland after a year of finding himself riding the bench late in games. Despite being a little undersized for his position, Bam Adebayo takes the starting Center role and is poised to make that spot his own. Justice Winslow is an interesting one. The 23-year old is able to play many roles, however he is yet to cement himself a permanent position. Winslow took the reigns at Point Guard last season in the absence of Goran Dragic and performed quite well, averaging 14.2 points, 45 FG%, 36 3PT%, 5.7 rebounds, 4.9 assists and 1.2 steals during that time. A fit Dragic might push Winslow to sixth man however I have him starting at SF. Miami’s first pick in Tyler Herro has taken the NBA world by storm this pre-season, proving that he is a walking bucket. This adds some handy shooting depth off the bench and Herro could even find himself in the starting line-up if he continues to show signs of being NBA ready. The Heat haven’t missed consecutive playoffs since 2003, and after missing out last year, the addition of Butler should help keep that record intact. 42-47 Wins
MILWAUKEE BUCKS
Coach: Mike Budenholzer
Key Ins: Dragan Bender (PHX), Kyle Korver (UTA), Robin Lopez (CHI), Frank Mason III (SAC), Wesley Matthews (IND), Cameron Reynolds (MIN).
Key Outs: Malcolm Brogdon (IND), Tim Frazier (DET), Pau Gasol (POR), Nikola Mirotic, Tony Snell (DET).
Draft: No selections
Expected Starting Lineup:
PG: Eric Bledsoe
SG: Wesley Matthews
SF: Kris Middleton
PF: Giannis Antetokounmpo
C: Brook Lopez
Last Season: 60-22
Prediction:
Milwaukee ended their first season under new coach Mike Budenholzer with the best record in the NBA. They fell short in East Conference Finals, losing in six games to the eventual NBA Champions in the Toronto Raptors. This result would have only fuelled the reigning MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo to put more work in during the offseason, meaning we could see something truly special from Giannis (if we haven’t already). Letting Malcolm Brogdon go was a big mistake in my eyes. I understand they had to pay Giannis and Kris Middleton big money, but Brogdon is one of the most efficient players in the game, after ending the season in the 50,40,90 club. These players don’t grow on trees and I feel this could be a big loss for the Bucks. They also lost Nikola Mirotic and Tony Snell which hurts their depth. I’m a little concerned for Milwaukee. I’m not sure Brook Lopez can repeat the insane shooting output he produced last season, and I feel there might be too much load for Giannis to carry. Middleton will need to have a career best year and Giannis will have to go above and beyond his MVP season if the Bucks want to advance out of the East. 48-53 Wins
MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES
Coach: Ryan Saunders
Key Ins: Jordan Bell (GSW), Jake Layman (POR), Shabazz Napier (BKN), Noah Vonleh (NYK)
Key Outs: Jerryd Bayless, Luol Deng, Taj Gibson (NYK), Tyus Jones (MEM), Cameron Reynolds (MIL), Derrick Rose (DET), Dario Saric (PHX), Anthony Tolliver (POR).
Draft: Round 1 (6): Jarrett Culver (SG), Round 2 (13): Jaylen Nowell (SG)
Expected Starting Lineup:
PG: Jeff Teague
SG: Josh Okogie
SF: Andrew Wiggins
PF: Robert Covington
C: Karl-Anthony Towns
Last Season: 36-46
Prediction:
If I had asked you three years ago to predict the future of the NBA, you would have told me the Timberwolves will be the next dynasty in the NBA. And you would have been right to say so. They had just drafted Karl-Anthony Towns with the first pick in the 2015 draft, they previously received Andrew Wiggins from the Cavs (who was being regarded as the ‘Maple Jordan’), and they also had Zach Lavine who is now on the verge of being an All-Star. Where did things go wrong? Minnesota won 11 fewer games than the season before, finishing 12 games out of the playoffs. The front office cleaned house during the off-season, and with Tom Thibodeau and Jimmy Butler gone, you get the feeling the tension around the Wolves has been removed. KAT is a superstar and is quickly becoming one of the best big men in the game. Wiggins has claimed he is motivated to prove critics wrong this season. Thibodeau wasn’t getting anything out of the former number 1 pick, so perhaps Wiggins will shine under a more relaxed coaching staff. The Wolves traded up to pick 6 and took Jarett Culver out of Texas Tech. This was a steal, only giving up pick 11 and Dario Saric, as Culver has tremendous potential to be a star in the making. He will provide some solid back-court depth this season. I’m sensing a big improvement. 42-47 Wins
NEW ORLEANS PELICANS
Coach: Alvin Gentry
Key Ins: Lonzo Ball (LAL), Derrick Favors (UTA), Josh Hart (LAL), Jaxson Hayes (R), Brandon Ingram (LAL), J.J. Redick (PHI)
Key Outs: Ian Clark, Anthony Davis (LAL), Cheick Diallo (PHX), Solomon Hill (MEM), Stanley Johnson (TOR), Elfrid Payton (NYK), Julius Randle (NYK)
Draft: Round 1 (1): Zion Williamson (PF), Round 1 (8): Jaxson Hayes (C), Round 1 (17): Nickeil Alexander-Walker (SG), Round 2 (5): Marcos Louzada Silva (SF)
Expected Starting Lineup:
PG: Lonzo Ball
SG: Jrue Holiday
SF: Brandon Ingram
PF: Zion Williamson
C: Derrick Favors
Last Season: 33-49
Prediction:
The Pelicans lost their franchise player in Anthony Davis. Then a month later they landed the first pick in the draft – aka Zion Williamson. Easy come, easy go. Considering they lost the only thing that had made their franchise relevant, the Pelicans have done extremely well to make up for it. They’ve had arguably the best off-season in terms of acquiring young talent and future picks, setting up the team to succeed for many years to come. Unfortunately, Zion required surgery to fix a torn meniscus in his knee, which to some, was inevitable given the size of the kid and the explosive playing style he showcases. There is a good chance Zion will miss a fair chunk of the season, despite reports indicating he will only miss up to 6-8 weeks. There is no doubt in my mind the Pelicans will be extra cautious with their prized young star, and I wouldn’t be surprised if he missed his entire rookie season akin to Ben Simmons. In his absence, former Laker duo Lonzo Ball and Brandon Ingram should shine, free of the publicity of playing in LA and alongside LeBron. Jaxson Hayes and Nickeil Alexander-Walker will be provided with ample opportunity to play decent minutes, with the latter recently being deemed the steal of the draft. Derrick Favors, J.J Reddick and returning star Jrue Holiday will provide this young core with some veteran leadership. One of the hardest teams to predict. 31-37 Wins
NEW YORK KNICKS
Coach: David Fizdale
Key Ins: Reggie Bullock (LAL), Wayne Ellington (DET), Taj Gibson (MIN), Marcus Morris (BOS), Elfrid Payton (NOP), Bobby Portis (WAS), Julius Randle (NOP).
Key Outs: Henry Ellenson (BKN), Mario Hezonja (POR), DeAndre Jordan (BKN), Luke Kornet (CHI), Emmanuel Mudiay (UTA), Noah Vonleh (MIN).
Draft: Round 1 (3): RJ Barrett (SG), Round 2 (17): Ignas Brazdeikis (PF)
Expected Starting Lineup:
PG: Dennis Smith Jr.
SG: RJ Barrett
SF: Marcus Morris
PF: Julius Randle
C: Mitchell Robinson
Last Season: 17-65
Prediction:
The Knicks had a very disappointing 2018/19 season, and what made it even worse was that they missed out on signing their two main free agency targets in Kyrie Irving and Kevin Durant (who ended up at cross town rivals Brooklyn), as well as missing out on the number 1 pick after finishing the year with the worst record. To their credit, the Knicks’ front office didn’t panic and overpay free agents to long-term deals. They signed multiple role players to short deals that will eventually free up cap space for another free agency push in the next few years. They took RJ Barrett with the third pick in the draft who is a solidified talent despite some doubts around the media. They brought in several veterans including Julius Randle, Taj Gibson, Bobby Portis and Marcus Morris. Notice a pattern? They’re all Forwards. But as mentioned before, this was just a backup plan by the Knicks to bring in some older players on short-term deals. They Knicks would win a fair few games this year if they gave high minutes to their vets, however, the Knicks will certainly be wanting to develop their youth, and if this means another lottery pick for the Knicks, then so be it. I believe Kevin Knox will have a breakout season and will quickly take over the role of starting Small Forward from Morris. The Knicks are heading in the right direction, but this might be another long year for the organisation. Their experienced players should win them some games, but the tank is strong in New York. 22-27 Wins
OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER
Coach: Billy Donovan
Key Ins: Danilo Gallinari (LAC), Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (LAC), Mike Muscala (LAL), Chris Paul (HOU).
Key Outs: Raymond Felton, Paul George (LAC), Jerami Grant (DEN), Donte Grantham (LAC), Markieff Morris (DET), Patrick Patterson (LAC), Russell Westbrook (HOU).
Draft: Round 1 (23): Darius Bazley (SF)
Expected Starting Lineup:
PG: Chris Paul
SG: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
SF: Andre Roberson
PF: Danilo Gallinari
C: Steven Adams
Last Season: 49-33
Prediction:
The Thunder have officially blown everything up. First James Harden was let go, then Kevin Durant left, now Russell Westbrook has been traded. Another example of what could have been. Paul George was also traded to the Clippers, meaning a franchise that had been in contention for the past decade, is now no more. The previous OKC roster had never dropped below 45 wins during their dominant period, however it is all downhill for Thunder fans. A bright light is the insane trade package they received from the Clippers in exchange for PG, landing them four unprotected first-round picks, one protected first-round pick and two pick swaps, along with young star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Danilo Gallinari. SGA showed tremendous potential last season, helping his former team reach the playoffs in his rookie year. SGA is a player OKC can look to build around along with the abundance of first round picks at their disposal. Chris Paul is expected to be traded at some point in the year, the only concern is finding a team willing to take on his outrageously high contract, which sits at $38.51 million. Considering he is 34-years old; the Thunder might find it difficult to offload the star Point Guard. Andre Roberson returns from injury and Steven Adams is as consistent as they get in the NBA. This roster could trouble a few teams during the season, the Thunder are a bit of a dark horse. 35-40 Wins
ORLANDO MAGIC
Coach: Steve Clifford
Key Ins: Al-Farouq Aminu (POR)
Key Outs: Jerian Grant, Timofey Mozgov.
Draft: Round 1 (16): Chuma Okeke (PF)
Expected Starting Lineup:
PG: D.J. Augustin
SG: Evan Fournier
SF: Aaron Gordon
PF: Jonathon Isaac
C: Nikola Vucevic
Last Season: 42-40
Prediction:
The Orlando magic really didn’t do much during the off-season. Either news of free agency and the trade period didn’t reach the tabloids in Orlando, or the Magic were confident in their plan and system. And why wouldn’t they be? They finished the season with an above .500 record, they had a top-five defense across the NBA, and they gave the eventual NBA Champions a scare in the first round of the playoffs. And that was after everyone gave them no chance prior to the season. Orlando have been quietly ticking along, filling up their roster needs when necessary, and are primed for another step forward this season. Keeping All-star center Nikola Vucevic was a big key to their future hopes, signing the big Montenegrin to a four-year deal. First round pick Chuma Okeke will be sidelined for majority of the year after tearing the ACL in his left knee. Orlando picked up the contract option on Markelle Fultz, which could be seen as risky, however if Fultz can produce half of his early projected potential, then he will prove to be a very important piece to the Orlando pie. Jonathon Isaac is continuing to make big steps in his career, managing to start 64 games last season. Look out for a big year for Issac. Aaron Gordon is still on the fringe of ticking over to a star, yet to show his real potential. The Magic will need Gordon as well as Mo Bamba to perform this year if they want to get past the first round. 42-47 Wins
PHILADELPHIA 76ERS
Coach: Brett Brown
Key Ins: Trey Burke (DAL), Al Horford (BOS), Raul Neto (UTA), Kyle O'Quinn (IND), Josh Richardson (MIA),
Key Outs: Jimmy Butler (MIA), Amir Johnson, Boban Marjanovic (DAL), T.J. McConnell (IND), Greg Monroe, J.J. Redick (NOP), Jonathon Simmons.
Draft: Round 1 (20): Matisse Thybulle (SF), Round 2 (24): Marial Shayok (SF)
Expected Starting Lineup:
PG: Ben Simmons
SG: Josh Richardson
SF: Tobias Harris
PF: Al Horford
C: Joel Embiid
Last Season: 51-31
Prediction:
Philly were a couple of very unfortunate bounces on the rim away from advancing to the Eastern Conference Finals. As history will show, the Raptors then went on to go all the way to win the Championship. The 76ers will be kicking themselves from not making the most of Jimmy Butler and J.J. Reddick, however with their two superstars in Ben Simmons and Joel Embiid only being 23 and 25 years old, respectively, there is plenty of opportunity for this proud organisation, drained of recent success, to make their claims in the playoffs. However, the 76ers are in no mood to wait, bringing in high end talent to fill out the roster. Josh Richardson and Al Horford were their big off-season recruits, adding to an already imposing defensive line-up. They are big, very big. This will allow them to dominate most teams in the paint, however they lack outside shooting from their main core, especially after losing the shooting of Butler and Reddick. Time will tell if the pieces fit together, and if they do, Philly will be eyeing off a spot in the Conference Finals. 53-58 Wins
PHOENIX SUNS
Coach: Monty Williams
Key Ins: Aron Baynes (BOS), Jevon Carter (MEM), Cheick Diallo (NOP), Frank Kaminsky (CHA), Ricky Rubio (UTA), Dario Saric (MIN)
Key Outs: Dragan Bender (MIL), Jamal Crawford, Troy Daniels (LAL), Richaun Holmes (SAC), Josh Jackson (MEM), De'Anthony Melton (MEM), T.J. Warren (IND)
Draft: Round 1 (11): Cameron Johnson (PF), Round 1 (24): Ty Jerome (SG)
Expected Starting Lineup:
PG: Ricky Rubio
SG: Devin Booker
SF: Kelly Oubre Jr.
PF: Dario Saric
C: Deandre Ayton
Last Season: 19-63
Prediction:
Here we are again; another season finished, another disappointing result for Phoenix. The Suns just can’t seem to improve, finishing last season with the second worst record, unable to break past 25 wins again for the fourth straight year. They have the best young scorer in Devin Booker, but his scoring talents are being wasted in Phoenix. Lucky for them, he is still only 22-years old. I feel Booker has been 22-years old for the past three seasons. Another upside for the Suns is last year’s number 1 pick – Deandre Ayton, who had a very underrated rookie season (masked by Doncic and Young), putting up solid averages of 16.3PPG & 10.3RPG. Ayton will only improve this season, and the acquisition of Aron Baynes makes for a very solid Center rotation. Kelly Oubre Jr had a breakout year after leaving the Wizards, averaging 15.2PPG. The addition of Ricky Rubio is exactly what the Suns were after. A pass-first, defensive Point Guard to play alongside Booker and basically feed him the ball at all times. I feel they made a big error trading down from pick 6 to pick 11, although Dario Saric should fit into the Suns system quite nicely, slotting into the stretch-four role. The Suns might be able to finally surpass the 25-win mark, but I can’t see it being by many. 23-28 Wins
PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS
Coach: Terry Stotts
Key Ins: Kent Bazemore (ATL), Pau Gasol (MIL), Mario Hezonja (NYK), Anthony Tolliver (MIN), Hassan Whiteside (MIA).
Key Outs: Al-Farouq Aminu (ORL), Seth Curry (DAL), Moe Harkless (LAC), Enes Kanter (BOS), Jake Layman (MIN), Meyers Leonard (MIA), Evan Turner (ATL).
Draft: Round 1 (25): Nassir Little (SF)
Expected Starting Lineup:
PG: Damien Lilliard
SG: CJ McCollum
SF: Rodney Hood
PF: Zach Collins
C: Hassan Whiteside
Last Season: 53-29
Prediction:
Portland were very busy in the off-season which seemed to go unnoticed in the NBA world. That typically sums up the Trail Blazers; they’re always there about but no one really talks about them. But they should, because for another year, lead by the baddest man in basketball – Damien Lilliard, Portland made their way to their sixth straight NBA playoffs. Last year they made it all the way to the Conference Finals, where they can be forgiven for being swept by the Golden State Warriors. They kept the dynamic back-court duo of Lilliard and McCollum yet lost a fair chunk of their bench depth. Portland lost Aminu, Curry, Harkless, Kanter, Layman, Leonard and Turner in the one off-season. Without Aminu and Harkless, Portland are incredibly week on the wings, and will make it tough coming up against the elite wings the Western Conference have to offer comes playoffs. With Jusuf Nurkic out till at least February, the Trail Blazers acquired Hassan Whiteside from Miami to fill their desperate need of a big man. Whiteside fell out of favour with the Heat, so Portland will be hoping the rebound machine can return to previous form. I’m expecting an 8th seed finish. 40-45 Wins
SACRAMENTO KINGS
Coach: Luke Walton
Key Ins: Trevor Ariza (WAS), Dewayne Dedmon (ATL), Richaun Holmes (PHX), Cory Joseph (IND), Tyler Lydon (DEN), Tyler Ulis
Key Outs: Corey Brewer, Alec Burks (GSW), Willie Cauley-Stein (GSW), Kosta Koufos, Frank Mason III (MIL)
Draft: Round 2 (10): Justin James (SG), Round 2 (25): Kyle Guy (PG), Round 2 (30): Vanja Marinkovic (SG)
Expected Starting Lineup:
PG: De’Aaron Fox
SG: Buddy Hield
SF: Harrison Barnes
PF: Marvin Bagley III
C: Dewayne Dedmon
Last Season: 39-43
Prediction:
For many years, the Sacramento organisation was considered a destitute product. No one wanted to go there, and no one wanted to be there. Now, the Kings are shaping up to be one of the most exciting young teams in the NBA. Lead by their speedy Point Guard De’Aaron Fox, Sacramento were on the cusp of making the playoffs last season, only to drop away at seasons end to miss out. This can be put down to inexperience and their youth running out of gas. Marvin Bagley is high on my radar for players to watch this year. Bagley was reduced to coming off the bench last season, only averaging 25 minutes. However, under the direction of new coach and the forgotten man Luke Walton, Bagley will find himself playing solid starting minutes. Buddy Hield recently signed a four-year, $86M extension, which is a steal considering the season he has just come off. Bogdan Bogdanovic deserves more minutes and along with Nemanja Bjelica, Harry Giles and Trevor Ariza, the Kings are starting to build a solid roster. 39-44 Wins
SAN ANTONIO SPURS
Coach: Greg Popovich
Key Ins: DeMarre Carroll (BKN), Trey Lyles (DEN)
Key Outs: Davis Bertans (WAS), Dante Cunningham, Quincy Pondexter.
Draft: Round 1 (19): Luka Samanic (PF), Round 1 (29): Keldon Johnson (SF), Round 2 (19): Quinndary Weatherspoon (SG)
Expected Starting Lineup:
PG: Dejounte Murray
SG: Derrick White
SF: DeMar DeRozan
PF: LaMarcus Aldridge
C: Jakob Poetl
Last Season: 48-34
Prediction:
The Spurs lost their superstar franchise player in Kawhi Leonard, along with NBA Champion guard Danny Green at the beginning of last season, and we all thought finally their dominant era has come to an end. But the Spurs did exactly what the Spurs do, and that is win games of basketball. DeMar DeRozan and LaMarcus Aldridge lead the team to the seventh seed in the West, where they pushed the Denver Nuggets to 7 games, falling short by only four points. At the same time, the Spurs found a hidden gem in Derrick White who was taken with the 29th pick in the 2017 draft. This season they kept basically the same core and have added DeMarre Carrol and Trey Lyles. In addition, the Spurs’ roster will be boosted by the return of young star Dejounte Murray, who was eerily taken with the 29th pick in the 2016 draft, who missed the entire 2018/19 season with a torn ACL in his right knee. The grand-master Greg Popovic has signed on for another three years as head coach, which is no shock considering he has led San Antonio to an NBA record 22 consecutive playoff appearances. And that record doesn’t look like ending this season. 42-47 Wins
TORONTO RAPTORS
Coach: Nick Nurse
Key Ins: Rondae Hollis-Jefferson (BKN), Stanley Johnson (NOP)
Key Outs: Danny Green (LAL), Kawhi Leonard (LAC), Jeremy Lin
Draft: Round 2 (29): Dewan Hernandez (C)
Expected Starting Lineup:
PG: Kyle Lowry
SG: Norman Powell
SF: OG Anuonoby
PF: Pascal Siakam
C: Marc Gasol
Last Season: 58-24
Prediction:
The Raptors took the biggest risk in NBA history when they traded away franchise player DeMar DeRozan for Kawhi Leonard, with the inevitability of Kawhi only staying for one-year looming over the Toronto organisation. However, that risk paid off tenfold as Kawhi lead the Canadian based team to their first ever NBA Championship. It kind of doesn’t matter what the Raptors do for the next two decades as the pressure of winning a title is finally behind them. Kawhi and Danny Green both left to opposing LA teams, but that was all the defending champs really lost during the offseason. OG Anuonoby will be fresh and healthy in his return for Toronto, after missing the playoffs due to an emergency appendectomy, and will provide some much-needed assistance in the absence of Kawhi and Green. Pascal Siakam exploded during the playoffs and Raptor fans will be hoping he carries over that form to this season. Rondae Hollis-Jefferson and Stanley Johnson don’t really provide an awful lot off the bench. Marc Gasol and Kyle Lowry are reaching the end of their careers so the production of both veterans could start to decline towards the end of the season. The Raptors are going to have to defend their title without the man who took them there, something that hasn’t been done since Michael Jordan left the Bulls in 1998. I’m not liking those odds. 41-46 Wins
UTAH JAZZ
Coach: Quin Snyder
Key Ins: Bojan Bogdanovic (IND), Mike Conley (MEM), Ed Davis (BKN), Jeff Green (WAS), Emmanuel Mudiay (NYK),
Key Outs: Jae Crowder (MEM), Derrick Favors (NOP), Kyle Korver (MIL), Raul Neto (PHI), Ricky Rubio (PHX), Thabo Sefolosha (HOU)
Draft: Round 2 (20): Jarrell Brantley (PF), Round 2 (23): Justin Wright-Foreman (PG), Round 2 (28): Miye Oni (SG)
Expected Starting Lineup:
PG: Mike Conley
SG: Donovan Mitchell
SF: Joe Ingles
PF: Bojan Bogdanovic
C: Rudy Gobert
Last Season: 50-32
Prediction:
Yes, yes, three times yes. The Jazz have done incredibly well to fill out their roster to make up for their first-round playoff exit last season. Donovan Mitchell will head into his third season as pro and has already proven that he has what it takes to be a star in the competition. Rudy Gobert won his second straight Defensive Player of the Year award and Joe Ingles is just continuing to be productive. The Jazz shipped Ricky Rubio to Phoenix and upgraded their Point Guard spot with Mike Conley. Conley averaged 21 points and 6 assists last season, so we can only assume those numbers will increase surrounded by top end talent, a great coach and a proven system. The additions of Bojan Bogdanovic, Jeff Green and Ed Davis only make them stronger. Mitchell has been forced to carry too much of the offensive load in his rookie and sophomore years, so the players the Jazz have brought in will be able to share the burden and provide some much need assistance to the young star. Utah will be looking to reach their fourth straight playoff appearance this season, the only concern is how strong the West is. I’m not sure the Jazz can get past the Clippers, Lakers or Rockets in the playoffs. However, this team is the best chance Utah have had for quite a long time. 52-57 Wins
WASHINGTON WIZARDS
Coach: Scott Brooks
Key Ins: Davis Bertans (SAS), Isaac Bonga (LAL), Chris Chiozza (HOU), Rui Hachimura (R), C.J. Miles (MEM), Ish Smith (DET), Isaiah Thomas (DEN), Moritz Wagner (LAL).
Key Outs: Trevor Ariza (SAC), Jeff Green (UTA), Dwight Howard (LAL), Jabari Parker (ATL), Bobby Portis (NYK), Tomas Satoransky (CHI).
Draft: Round 1 (9): Rui Hachimura (PF), Round 2 (12): Admiral Schofield (SF)
Expected Starting Lineup:
PG: Ish Smith
SG: Bradley Beal
SF: Troy Brown Jr.
PF: Rui Hachimura
C: Thomas Bryant
Last Season: 32-50
Prediction:
John Wall is set to miss the entirety of the 2019/20 season due to an Achilles injury that he suffered after slipping and falling in his home. The Wizards will be paying $38M to Wall despite the fact he won’t play a single minute this season, which meant they couldn’t really do much in terms of free agency. The Wizards now realise their future lies in the hands of Bradley Beal, who in the absence of Wall, will be given the keys to take over and lead this team. Beal signed a two-year contract extension to stay in Washington until the end of the 2022/23 season. The Wizards are clearly in a restart phase. They brought in Sashi Brown, who oversaw the rebuild of the notoriously terrible Cleveland Browns of the NFL, to help navigate the Wizards through this phase. Their first pick in this year’s draft, Japanese Forward Rui Hachimura showed positive signs in the summer league and let the Wizards’ organisation know they made the right decision selecting him with pick 9. Unfortunately for fans, I can’t see this season being all too positive for the Wizards. They lack experience and talent. They will win the odd game or two because of how good Beal is, but other than that it’s looking like another lottery pick for the Wizards. 24-29 Wins
Comments