Not sure which NBA team to follow this season? Sportiw has selected the teams you ABSOLUTELY need to follow this year.
The NBA season is starting, and you’re finally ready to dive in, but you don’t know which team to follow among the 30 teams in the league. Don’t worry, Sportiw is here to suggest 5 teams you absolutely need to follow and support this season!
Last season: The Celtics’ last season was certainly one of their most successful in recent years, finishing first in the Eastern Conference with 64 wins, followed by an exceptional playoff run, culminating in a Finals victory against the Dallas Mavericks, 4-1. In short, almost too easy…
The roster: No notable arrivals this summer for BeanTown, which will try to build on the continuity of its roster, including players like Jayson Tatum, Jrue Holiday, Jaylen Brown, and Kristaps Porzingis…
Player to watch: We could have picked many players given how packed the roster is with talent, but we’ve gone with Mr. Jayson Tatum (not the most original choice, just like the team). This guy just became an NBA champion while being the franchise player alongside Jaylen Brown. Naturally, he was then called up to join Team USA for the Olympics. However, the dream came to an abrupt end when he found himself glued to the bench, playing only 71 minutes over 4 games — a harsh reality for someone who just won an NBA title. We believe this is exactly what Jayson needed to fuel a monstrous season, showing all of America that Steve Kerr made a mistake by leaving him on the bench.
The goals: Quite simply, to do what they did last year — FINISH AS NBA CHAMPIONS and pull off the back-to-back. Yes, the competition is fierce, but the Celtics have kept nearly the same squad, so there’s no room for mistakes.
Why them and not another team? If you’re eager to follow a team with a clinical and clean style of play, Boston is the team for you! With players determined to earn even more respect and with high expectations from the media and fans, the pressure is at its peak for the Celtics. Many teams have stumbled when trying to achieve back-to-back titles, so what could be more exciting than following the Beantown Boys this season?
Wednesday, October 30
Boston Celtics
00:00
Indiana Pacers
Friday, November 01
Bostin Celtics
00:00
Charlotte Hornets
Monday, November 04
Boston Celtics
00:00
Atlanta Hawks
Last season: A surprising season with a no less tragic ending for New York. Finishing second in a conference heavily dominated by Boston, the Knicks first managed to upset the mighty Joel Embiid and the Sixers before being stunned by the Indiana Pacers in the semifinals during the last game of the series. Too tired and injured, their season ended in regret.
The roster: To put it simply, the New York team made the biggest trade of the summer by adding Minnesota’s All-Star Karl-Anthony Towns to their roster, while sending Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo the other way. With the arrival of Mikal Bridges from their Brooklyn neighbors, Tom Thibodeau’s team certainly has one of the most exciting rosters in the league.
Player to watch: While there are many interesting arrivals to choose from, we recommend keeping an eye on the upcoming season of the three-point sharpshooter, Mikal Bridges. Not only does it hold a lot of promise, but also a lot of questions. After strong seasons as the 3rd option with the Suns, then as a “franchise player” in Brooklyn, his 2023-24 season was seen as a disappointment, which invites us to focus on the next season of “Iron Man” as he joins a team contending for the NBA title.
The goals: After a promising season last year and some intriguing staff decisions this summer, it’s clear that the New York Knicks will aim to compete with the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference, with the ultimate goal being a Finals appearance, or even an NBA title.
Why them and not another team? Want to support an underdog team that has everything to gain? Then you’re in the right place in the Big Apple. With a strengthened roster full of smooth, enjoyable-to-watch players, and an electric atmosphere in the basketball fortress that is Madison Square Garden, now is the time to jump aboard the Knicks’ bandwagon, and the journey could take you very far this year.
Friday, November 01
New York Knicks
00:00
Detroit Pistons
Monday, November 04
New York Knicks
02:45
Houston Rockets
Wednesday November 06
New York Knicks
01:30
Atlanta Hawks
Last season: While the overall standings weren’t the main goal for the Texas team, all eyes were on the first NBA season of the “alien” Victor Wembanyama, which was more than enough reason to tune in and watch the Spurs finish second-to-last in the Western Conference.
The roster: Wemby will have solid support for the upcoming season, especially with the arrival of the 4th pick in the latest NBA draft, Stephen Castle. Still surrounded by the same core, young and full of talent, we also note the arrival of veteran Chris Paul. Though far from his prime, he’s ready to take on the role of leader for this young team.
Player to watch: Who else but Victor Wembanyama! His second NBA season isn’t just anticipated, it’s highlyanticipated. In every aspect of his game and in all facets of his style, Wemby is THE player to watch, possibly even the most exciting player in the entire NBA. The expectations are sky-high: there’s talk of a potential DPOY (Defensive Player of the Year), an All-Star Game selection, and some Spurs fans even see him in the MVP race (though that might be a bit of a stretch). The Frenchman simply represents the future of the NBA, and it’s hard to imagine a more spectacular player. So, you don’t really have a choice—you have to follow Victor all season long!
The goals: It’s hard to gauge San Antonio’s objectives for this season. It’s tempting to dream of a play-in spot with a rapidly improving Wemby and teammates making strides. However, the reality might keep them near the bottom of the standings in a Western Conference more competitive than ever, possibly to grab another high prospect in the next draft. But who knows—the Greg Popovich/Victor Wembanyama duo could surprise us all (we hope!).
Why them and not another team? Because the Spurs have one of the greatest potential talents the NBA has ever seen, and it’s worth enjoying this generational talent, especially under the guidance of one of the greatest coaches in history. Plus, while the 2024-2025 season might not be perfect, it’s a good idea to start supporting them now before they dominate the NBA over the next 10
Friday, November 01
San Antonio Spurs
02:00
Utah Jazz
Sunday, November 03
Minnesota Timberwolves
01:00
San Antonio Spurs
Tuesday, November 05
San Antonio Spurs
00:00
Los Angeles Clippers
Last season: No one expected them to finish so high in the Western Conference standings, even though the team already showed tremendous potential. Finishing first, ahead of teams like the defending champions Denver, the Warriors, the Clippers, and the Lakers, was nothing short of exceptional! OKC then managed to carve their way to the conference finals, where they were unfortunately stopped by the Mavericks, led by Kyrie Irving and Luka Doncic.
The roster: The best way to describe the roster is: young and extremely talented. The OKC staff has done an incredible job collecting key pieces from recent drafts to build a super exciting team, with a bunch of young players on the verge of breaking out at the highest level. With an elite point guard like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and the young Chet Holmgren entering his second NBA season, the Thunder has some strong cards in hand.
Player to watch: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander came close to winning the MVP title last season, ultimately finishing behind Serbian star Nikola Jokic. At just 26 years old, Shai will once again lead his team, but this time aiming for the top spot in the MVP race. A highly talented player in a well-functioning team, his highlights will be a must-watch this season.
Goals: The Thunder were exposed last season and can no longer hide behind their youth. Therefore, it’s easy to imagine them aiming for “at least” a conference final and possibly even the top seed in the West. Expect to see them at the very top of the standings!
Why them and not another team? Because as a collective, OKC might just be the team with the most potential in the NBA! They’ve got stars everywhere: Shai aiming for an MVP title, Chet Holmgren trying to reclaim the hype that went to Wembanyama. There are so many exciting aspects about the Thunder’s upcoming season, which gives plenty of reasons to follow them every game night.
Saturday, November 02
OKC Thunder
03:00
Portland Trail Blazers
Sunday, November 03
OKC Thunder
03:30
Los Angeles Clippers
Tuesday, November 05
Orlando magic
03:15
OKC Thunder
Last season: The Pelicans had a fairly average season, at least in terms of overall standings, securing a spot in the play-in but getting eliminated in the first round of the playoffs. As for their play, the Pelicans were quite inconsistent, though they did catch fire at the end of the season when the team wasn’t decimated by injuries.
The roster: The team is very well-rounded, as long as they aren’t too impacted by injuries. A few players have left, and the arrival of Dejounte Murray, who, despite his undeniable talent, had a disappointing season with Atlanta, adds some interesting dynamics. Additionally, young Herb Jones continues to display elite defensive skills, while star Zion Williamson, who played almost the entire season, showcases his exceptional potential. Finally, All-Star Brandon Ingram might leave Louisiana before the season’s end.
The player to watch: We won’t take too big of a risk and suggest following Zion Williamson (how original). Still, the former first overall draft pick still holds plenty of promise after numerous injuries and concerns that have slowed his development in the league. However, when healthy, he’s simply unstoppable and is among the best players out there. He’ll definitely be motivated to improve upon last year’s performance after missing out on the All-Star Game, all while maintaining his role as the leader of the Pelicans.
Goals: It’s quite difficult to predict how the Pelicans’ season will unfold. However, we can expect them to secure a spot in the play-in, though there are still doubts about their ability to qualify for the playoffs. Internally, though, it’s clear that the New Orleans staff’s goal is to return to the playoffs.
Why them and not another team? Simply because it’s my article, and if I want to talk about my favorite NBA team, no one’s going to stop me! Plus, there are probably only about 15 Pelicans fans in the world, so it’d be nice if we could boost those numbers a bit… More seriously, the New Orleans Pelicans are one of the most intriguing teams this season, not only because they have players bursting with talent but also because their inconsistency has already cost them. They’re a team that’s hard to evaluate but so exciting to watch, as you can sense they could go very far if all the stars align.
Sunday, November 03
Indiana Pacers
01:00
New Orleans Pelicans
Monday, November 04
Atlanta Hawks
01:00
New Orleans Pelicans
Tuesday, November 05
Portland Trail Blazers
00:00
New Orleans Pelicans