As someone who’s deeply invested in all things NBA — maybe a little too invested sometimes — I pride myself on my basketball knowledge. With the 2023-24 season around the corner, I’m breaking down some players and teams readers should consider and providing predictions for the season’s playoffs.
Players on the new teams
Point guard Damian Lillard joined the Milwaukee Bucks this offseason in a massive trade. Lillard’s range makes him a scoring threat from anywhere inside half-court — he made a league-leading 38 shots from beyond 30 feet last season. An explosive scorer and elite finisher with a polished offensive game, Lillard averaged 32.2 points per game last season, scoring 50 or more points on three occasions.
Now that he’s playing alongside two-time Most Valuable Player Giannis Antetokounmpo, the most dominant at-the-rim player in the league, opposing teams will have to choose between Lillard’s deadly three-point shot and Antetokounmpo’s driving ability. I believe Lillard fits perfectly on the Bucks’ roster — they have plenty of players who thrive without the ball in their hands and complement the team’s superstars. After their offseason upgrades and coaching overhaul, I don’t see any teams beating Milwaukee in a playoff series this season.
The Phoenix Suns traded for shooting guard Bradley Beal, who joins All-Star duo Kevin Durant and Devin Booker. Beal is an excellent ball handler who can create instant offense, but also a solid playmaker who can set up Durant and Booker, two elite catch-and-shoot snipers. Though the Suns’ offense is undoubtedly better with Beal on the floor, my main concern is health: Durant and Beal both have a history of injuries, and the Suns’ limited depth will be exposed if either of them misses significant time. Regardless, Beal’s addition makes the Phoenix’s offense even more dynamic and fun to watch.
Many were surprised by the Boston Celtics’ acquisition of center Kristaps Porzingis, but I believe he can elevate the Celtics to a championship-level team. In past years, the Celtics were knocked out of the playoffs by teams that shut down Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. Porzingis frees up the Celtics’ offense because opposing big men have to respect his three-point shot, meaning they can’t help too much on Brown’s or Tatum’s drives. Although Porzingis is an average defender at best, he’ll be playing alongside a roster full of solid defenders, and what he can bring to the Celtics’ offense far outweighs any defensive issues he creates.
Teams to watch
If there were a word to describe the Oklahoma City Thunder, it would be unorthodox. The Thunder is loaded with young talent thanks to General Manager Sam Presti’s innovative drafting strategy. Point guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander broke out last year, averaging 31.4 points per game en route to an All-NBA First Team selection (a team of the best players in the league). He’s one of my favorite players to watch, with an arsenal of step-backs, midrange jumpers and creative finishes. Guard-forward Josh Giddey is already one of the league’s best passers and a candidate to lead the league in triple-doubles this season, and guard Luguentz Dort is a lockdown defensive player who can guard four positions. Forward Jalen Williams is a versatile offensive weapon who can play four positions and score from all three levels. Talented rookies Chet Holmgren and Cason Wallace will both make an immediate impact with their three-point shooting and defense. If the Thunder can hold on to and develop their core pieces, they’ll be contending for a championship in a few years.
The Sacramento Kings were the league’s most potent offense last year thanks to head coach Mike Brown’s run-and-gun style of play. All-Star point guard De’Aaron Fox has one of my favorite offensive skill sets in the league: He’s lightning-fast in the open floor and has a dangerous midrange and floater game. Sacramento runs their offense through center Domantas Sabonis — he’s a brilliant passer and a force in the post but can also set screens and rebound at a high level. Complementing Fox and Sabonis are elite shooters Keegan Murray and Kevin Huerter, who both shot over 40% from three last season, and all-around offensive threats Malik Monk and Harrison Barnes. If you’re a fan of fast breaks, three-pointers and creative offense, the Kings are the team to watch.
