NBA 2025-26 Season: Key Questions for All 30 Teams as Media Days Kick Off

As the NBA season approaches, with media days for 25 teams scheduled for Monday and the remaining five having taken place last week, the excitement is palpable. The offseason has been a whirlwind of trades, contract negotiations, and injuries, leaving many teams with unresolved storylines as they gear up for the 2025-26 season.

With just 22 days until the preseason begins, reporters have delved into the most pressing questions facing each team. From the Golden State Warriors’ Jonathan Kuminga saga to the Los Angeles Clippers’ ongoing investigation involving Kawhi Leonard, the narratives are rich and varied. Here’s a closer look at the biggest questions for all 30 teams as they prepare for the upcoming season.

Atlanta Hawks: Are They Ready to Contend?

The Atlanta Hawks are poised to make a significant leap in the Eastern Conference. With the acquisitions of Kristaps Porzingis, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, and Luke Kennard, the Hawks are looking to capitalize on the potential decline of rivals like Boston and Milwaukee due to injuries. Trae Young, the reigning assists leader, will have a more talented roster at his disposal, including a recovering Jalen Johnson and promising young players like Dyson Daniels and Onyeka Okongwu. Young’s performance will also be under scrutiny as he seeks a lucrative four-year, $229 million extension.

Boston Celtics: What’s the Plan Without Tatum?

The Celtics have long been a championship contender, but with Jayson Tatum sidelined due to a torn Achilles, the team faces a pivotal moment. The offseason saw the departure of key players like Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis, raising questions about whether Boston will aim for a playoff spot or take a step back for a “gap year.” The focus will shift to Jaylen Brown and Derrick White as they navigate this transitional phase.

Brooklyn Nets: Can Thomas and Porter Coexist?

Cam Thomas and Michael Porter Jr. are both offensive-minded players who thrive on freedom. With Thomas recovering from injuries that limited his last season, and Porter looking to establish himself after being a secondary option in Denver, the Nets must find a balance in their offensive scheme. The team’s identity is at stake as they seek to integrate these two talents effectively.

Charlotte Hornets: Is LaMelo Ball the Answer?

LaMelo Ball’s career has been marred by injuries, limiting him to just 105 games over three seasons. Despite his impressive averages of 25.2 points, 7.4 assists, and 4.9 rebounds last season, the Hornets need him to not only stay healthy but also step up as a leader. With Brandon Miller also recovering from injury, the Hornets are in a rebuilding phase, and second-year coach Charles Lee will be keen to see how Ball and Miller can develop together.

Chicago Bulls: Who Will Emerge as a Star?

After parting ways with DeMar DeRozan and Zach LaVine, the Bulls are banking on their young players to step up. With a roster featuring Josh Giddey, Coby White, and Matas Buzelis, the team is in search of a player who can blossom into a star. Having made the playoffs only once in the last eight seasons, the Bulls are desperate for a breakthrough.

Cleveland Cavaliers: Can They Overcome Playoff Disappointment?

Following a stellar regular season, the Cavaliers faced a disappointing playoff exit, raising questions about their ability to bounce back. With their core of Donovan Mitchell, Evan Mobley, Darius Garland, and Jarrett Allen intact, the team must address the issues that led to their downfall against the Indiana Pacers. The pressure is on to prove that they can compete at the highest level.

Dallas Mavericks: When Will Kyrie Irving Return?

Kyrie Irving’s recovery from a torn ACL is a focal point for the Mavericks. While he has expressed optimism about his rehabilitation, the team must navigate the season without him for the time being. Anthony Davis will need to step up, and the development of rookie Cooper Flagg will be crucial as the Mavericks aim to stay competitive.

Denver Nuggets: Is Their Defense Up to Par?

The Nuggets are in a critical phase as they look to maximize Nikola Jokic’s prime. Despite adding depth with new signings, their defense remains a concern, having ranked 21st in the league last season. If they cannot improve defensively, their aspirations for a deep playoff run may be dashed.

Detroit Pistons: Where Does Jaden Ivey Fit?

Jaden Ivey’s return from injury poses questions about his role in the Pistons’ lineup. With Ausar Thompson’s emergence last season, the team must decide whether Ivey will reclaim a starting position or come off the bench. His scoring ability is vital for a team looking to build around its young core.

Golden State Warriors: Will Kuminga’s Contract Drama Affect the Team?

The Jonathan Kuminga contract situation has overshadowed the Warriors’ offseason. How this issue is resolved will significantly impact Kuminga’s buy-in and the team’s overall chemistry. A smooth resolution could bolster the Warriors’ rotation, while a prolonged dispute could create tension.

Houston Rockets: Can They Compete Without VanVleet?

The Rockets face a significant challenge with Fred VanVleet’s potential season-ending injury. However, the team boasts a wealth of young talent and strong coaching. Players like Reed Sheppard and Amen Thompson will need to step up in VanVleet’s absence to keep the Rockets competitive in the West.

Indiana Pacers: What Are Their Expectations?

After a heartbreaking Game 7 loss in the NBA Finals, the Pacers enter the season without their star player, Tyrese Haliburton, who is recovering from a torn Achilles. With Myles Turner also gone, the team is in a rebuilding phase, but they may surprise critics with their resilience and talent.

Los Angeles Clippers: How Will They Handle the Investigation?

The Clippers are under scrutiny due to an NBA investigation regarding salary cap circumvention. This cloud of uncertainty could distract the team, which is already facing challenges with aging stars like Chris Paul and Kawhi Leonard. The pressure is on to make the most of this season before a potential rebuild looms.

Los Angeles Lakers: Is This LeBron James’ Last Season?

With the Lakers’ playoff hopes hinging on the performance of LeBron James and Luka Doncic, questions arise about James’ future. If the team struggles, will he choose to finish the season in Los Angeles, or will he seek a different path? The stakes are high for the Lakers as they navigate this pivotal season.

Memphis Grizzlies: Is Their Rebuild on Track?

The Grizzlies have made significant changes, including firing coach Taylor Jenkins and trading Desmond Bane. While they aim to build around Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr., the team’s ability to compete in the West remains uncertain. The new additions must gel with the existing core for a successful transition.

Miami Heat: Can They Bounce Back?

After a tumultuous season, the Heat are looking to regain their footing. With new acquisitions and the return of key players, they must overcome the challenges posed by injuries and team chemistry. Coach Erik Spoelstra’s leadership will be crucial in guiding the team back to contention.

Milwaukee Bucks: Can They Reopen Their Championship Window?

Despite Giannis Antetokounmpo’s stellar performance last season, the Bucks have struggled in the playoffs. With a retooled roster, they are determined to give Antetokounmpo another shot at a championship. The pressure is on to find the right mix of talent to support their star.

Minnesota Timberwolves: Are Young Players Ready to Step Up?

The Timberwolves are looking to expand their rotation and give opportunities to younger players. With established stars like Anthony Edwards and Rudy Gobert, the team must determine if their young prospects are ready to contribute meaningfully.

New Orleans Pelicans: Can They Stay Healthy?

Injuries have plagued the Pelicans in recent seasons, and their success hinges on the health of key players like Zion Williamson. With new additions to the roster, the team must navigate the challenges of maintaining a healthy lineup to avoid another disappointing season.

New York Knicks: Will New Coach Mike Brown Change the Lineup?

With a new coach at the helm, the Knicks face questions about their starting lineup. The decisions made by Mike Brown will be scrutinized as the team aims to improve upon last season’s performance and find the right chemistry among its players.

Oklahoma City Thunder: Will There Be a Championship Hangover?

As the reigning champions, the Thunder must navigate the challenges of being the hunted. With a young core, they have the talent to succeed, but maintaining motivation and avoiding fatigue will be crucial in their title defense.

Orlando Magic: Can Desmond Bane Elevate the Team?

The Magic are banking on Desmond Bane to help their young stars take the next step. With a focus on health and development, the team aims to improve its playoff prospects and finally break through in the postseason.

Philadelphia 76ers: Will Joel Embiid Be Healthy?

Joel Embiid’s health is a critical factor for the 76ers’ success. If he can return to form, Philadelphia could be a serious contender in the Eastern Conference. However, lingering questions about his durability remain.

Phoenix Suns: How Will the Rebuild Affect Devin Booker?

Devin Booker has experienced a rollercoaster career with the Suns, and the team’s recent rebuild raises questions about his future. As the franchise undergoes significant changes, how will Booker adapt to the new direction?

Portland Trail Blazers: Can Scoot Henderson Make the Leap?

Scoot Henderson’s development is crucial for the Trail Blazers as they look to build for the future. With Damian Lillard sidelined, Henderson must step up and prove he can lead the team in Lillard’s absence.

Sacramento Kings: Can Offense Compensate for Defensive Flaws?

The Kings boast impressive offensive talent, but their defensive shortcomings raise concerns. To succeed, they must find a way to balance their scoring prowess with improved defensive performance.

San Antonio Spurs: Can They Overcome 3-Point Shooting Deficiencies?

The Spurs are looking to maximize their strengths while addressing their weaknesses. With Victor Wembanyama leading the charge, the team must find ways to improve its perimeter shooting to remain competitive.

Toronto Raptors: What Will This Season Look Like?

The Raptors are one of the league’s biggest unknowns, with new acquisitions and a fresh coaching staff. How they integrate their talent will be pivotal in defining their season and future.

Utah Jazz: Are They Ready for the Next Step?

The Jazz are in a rebuilding phase, but with a young core and new veteran additions, they are looking to take the next step. The development of their backcourt will be crucial in determining their success.

Washington Wizards: Can They Develop Young Talent?

The Wizards are focused on player development as they continue their rebuilding process. With a young core and new veterans to guide them, the team aims to be more competitive and foster growth.

Conclusion

As the NBA season approaches, each team faces unique challenges and opportunities. From navigating injuries to integrating new players, the upcoming months will be critical in shaping the future of the league. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as these storylines unfold, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting season.