30 questions to kick off the NBA preseason: What we're...

30 questions to kick off the NBA preseason: What we’re watching for every team

Boston Celtics

Can the revamped frontcourt and Porzingis integration maintain their elite defense while boosting offensive versatility?

• The Celtics traded Marcus Smart and Robert Williams III, bringing in Kristaps Porzingis. This shift targets offensive firepower. Preseason will test defensive schemes with new personnel.

Key Stats & Facts to Watch

• 2022-23 Defensive Rating: 110.6 (2nd in NBA). Maintaining this will be key.
• Porzingis’ 3P% last season: 38.3% on 5.5 attempts. His spacing could open driving lanes.
• Addition of Jrue Holiday further bolsters backcourt defense and playmaking.

Player Spotlight & Standings Impact

• Kristaps Porzingis: His health and defensive engagement are paramount. He averaged 23.2 PPG and 8.4 RPG last season.
• The success of the Holiday/Porzingis integration could determine if they remain the East’s top contender, impacting their potential #1 seed.

Brooklyn Nets

With Durant and Irving gone, who steps up as the primary offensive initiator and what’s their identity?

• The Nets are now a team without a definitive superstar. Preseason will clarify offensive hierarchy and preferred play style.

Key Stats & Facts to Watch

• 2022-23 Usage Rate (Nets): Spencer Dinwiddie 23.9%, Mikal Bridges 26.6% post-trade. Expect these to be focal points.
• Team ended last season 21st in assists per game (23.9). Improved ball movement is crucial.

Player Spotlight & Standings Impact

• Mikal Bridges: Emerged as a lead scorer, averaging 26.1 PPG post-trade to Brooklyn. Can he sustain that efficiency?
• Their ability to establish an identity could position them as a play-in contender, but a lack of clear leadership might see them slide.

New York Knicks

Can Jalen Brunson and RJ Barrett’s synergy elevate them beyond a second-round exit?

• The Knicks built on Brunson’s rise last season. Their preseason will focus on enhancing existing chemistry and optimizing offensive roles.

Key Stats & Facts to Watch

• Jalen Brunson 2022-23: 24.0 PPG, 6.2 APG. His on-court decision-making drives the offense.
• RJ Barrett’s true shooting % was 55.4% last season. Improvement in efficiency is targeted.
• Donte DiVincenzo adds shooting (39.7% 3P) and defensive intensity.

Player Spotlight & Standings Impact

• RJ Barrett: Needs to consistently provide efficient secondary scoring. His development is critical.
• A strong start, building on last season’s success, could solidify a top-four seed in the Eastern Conference.

Philadelphia 76ers

How will the James Harden situation resolve, and can Tyrese Maxey thrive as a full-time secondary star?

• The ongoing Harden saga casts a shadow. Preseason will be a test of mental fortitude and Maxey’s readiness for an elevated role.

Key Stats & Facts to Watch

• Joel Embiid 2022-23: 33.1 PPG (NBA leader). Offensive load could increase further without Harden.
• Tyrese Maxey’s 3P% last season: 43.4%. His perimeter scoring will be vital.
• 76ers led the NBA in free throw attempts (26.7 FTA) last season. Maintaining this without Harden’s drives could be tough.

Player Spotlight & Standings Impact

• Tyrese Maxey: Stepping into a larger playmaking and scoring role is essential for his growth and the team’s success.
• How they navigate the Harden situation directly impacts their ability to contend for a top-three seed in the East.

Toronto Raptors

What’s the plan post-Fred VanVleet, and can Scottie Barnes fully embrace a lead playmaking role?

• VanVleet’s departure creates a void at point guard. Preseason will showcase the team’s new offensive structure and Barnes’ expanded responsibilities.

Key Stats & Facts to Watch

• Fred VanVleet’s 2022-23: 19.3 PPG, 7.2 APG. Those assists need to be replaced.
• Scottie Barnes 2022-23: 4.8 APG. Expect this number to climb.
• Team finished 27th in 3-point percentage (33.5%) last season. Shot creation remains a concern.

Player Spotlight & Standings Impact

• Scottie Barnes: His playmaking and decision-making will define the Raptors’ offense.
• A successful transition for Barnes and others could keep them in the play-in picture, otherwise, a significant drop is possible.

Chicago Bulls

Can their core trio of LaVine, DeRozan, and Vucevic find chemistry and health to avoid the play-in?

• The Bulls largely ran it back. Preseason is about optimizing their established core and staying healthy.

Key Stats & Facts to Watch

• DeMar DeRozan 2022-23: 24.5 PPG on 50.4% FG. Still efficient, but age is a factor.
• Nikola Vucevic re-signed; averaged 17.6 PPG, 11.0 RPG. His two-way consistency is key.
• Team ranked 24th in 3-point attempts (30.1) last season. This needs to improve for modern offense.

Player Spotlight & Standings Impact

• Zach LaVine: Needs to be the primary scorer and remain healthy. Averaged 24.8 PPG last season.
• Their performance dictates whether they can climb out of the crowded play-in range into a guaranteed playoff spot.

Cleveland Cavaliers

How effectively will new addition Max Strus integrate, and can Mobley take another step in his offensive game?

• The Cavaliers made a key outside shooting addition. Preseason will focus on integrating Strus and developing Evan Mobley’s offensive range.

Key Stats & Facts to Watch

• Cavaliers 2022-23: 3rd in Defensive Rating (109.9). Should remain elite.
• Max Strus 2022-23: 35.0% 3P on 6.2 attempts. Provides much-needed spacing.
• Evan Mobley’s 2022-23: 16.2 PPG, 9.0 RPG. His usage rate (20.0%) could increase.

Player Spotlight & Standings Impact

• Evan Mobley: An improved mid-range or 3-point shot would unlock the Cavs’ offense further.
• A more dynamic offense combined with elite defense could push them into contention for a top-two East seed.

Detroit Pistons

Which young guard (Cade, Ivey, Thompson) will establish himself as the primary backcourt leader?

• The Pistons have a wealth of young guard talent. Preseason will feature competitive battles for minutes and roles.

Key Stats & Facts to Watch

• Cade Cunningham 2022-23 (12 games): 19.9 PPG, 6.2 APG. His return from injury is pivotal.
• Jaden Ivey 2022-23: 16.3 PPG, 5.2 APG. Showed flashes of explosive scoring.
• Ausar Thompson (rookie): His defensive versatility and athleticism will be tested.

Player Spotlight & Standings Impact

• Cade Cunningham: The clear leader when healthy, his performance dictates the team’s progress.
• Their development trajectory for these young guards will directly influence their standing, likely still rebuilding, but showing flashes of future potential.

Indiana Pacers

Can Tyrese Haliburton’s elite playmaking translate into more team wins with an improved roster?

• The Pacers made key additions to support Haliburton. Preseason is about building chemistry and defensive improvements.

Key Stats & Facts to Watch

• Tyrese Haliburton 2022-23: 20.7 PPG, 10.4 APG. His assist numbers ranked 2nd in the NBA.
• Myles Turner re-signed: 18.0 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 2.3 BPG. Remains a two-way anchor.
• Bruce Brown adds defense and championship experience, shooting 40.2% from three last year.

Player Spotlight & Standings Impact

• Tyrese Haliburton: With more talent around him, his efficiency and winning impact will be under scrutiny.
• If the roster gels, they could surprise teams and push for a play-in spot, aiming for a .500 record.

Milwaukee Bucks

How will the Damian Lillard acquisition impact their existing defense, and can the new core gel quickly?

• The blockbuster Lillard trade drastically changes their dynamic. Preseason will assess defensive adjustments and offensive synergy.

Key Stats & Facts to Watch

• Damian Lillard 2022-23: 32.2 PPG, 7.3 APG. Adds unparalleled offensive firepower.
• Bucks 2022-23 Defensive Rating: 110.9 (4th). Losing Jrue Holiday is significant.
• Giannis Antetokounmpo 2022-23: 31.1 PPG, 11.8 RPG. His transition to a secondary playmaker could be key.

Player Spotlight & Standings Impact

• Damian Lillard: His defensive commitment and integration into coach Adrian Griffin’s system are critical.
• The immediate chemistry and defensive adjustments will determine if they are the outright favorites in the Eastern Conference.

Atlanta Hawks

Can Quin Snyder unlock consistent two-way play from Trae Young and Dejounte Murray?

• The Hawks’ backcourt pairing still has room to grow. Preseason focuses on defensive schemes and offensive flow under Snyder.

Key Stats & Facts to Watch

• Trae Young 2022-23: 26.2 PPG, 10.2 APG. Remains their primary creator.
• Dejounte Murray 2022-23: 20.5 PPG, 6.1 APG, 1.5 SPG. His defense is crucial.
• Hawks 2022-23 Defensive Rating: 114.9 (22nd). Significant improvement is needed.

Player Spotlight & Standings Impact

• Onyeka Okongwu: His defensive impact and growth are vital for the team’s overall defensive improvement.
• If they can commit defensively, they could secure a solid playoff spot, avoiding the play-in tournament.

Charlotte Hornets

How will Brandon Miller fit alongside LaMelo Ball, and can the team improve its dismal defense?

• The Hornets drafted Brandon Miller high. Preseason will show his initial role and any defensive improvements.

Key Stats & Facts to Watch

• LaMelo Ball 2022-23 (36 games): 23.3 PPG, 8.4 APG. His health and leadership are paramount.
• Hornets 2022-23 Defensive Rating: 116.6 (29th). This must be a major focus.
• Brandon Miller (rookie): His length and shooting could be an immediate asset.

Player Spotlight & Standings Impact

• Brandon Miller: His scoring efficiency and defensive potential as a rookie will be closely watched.
• While still rebuilding, showing defensive growth and Miller’s immediate impact could improve their lottery odds.

Miami Heat

After a Finals run, how will they address their frontcourt depth and maintain their defensive identity?

• The Heat’s roster consistency after a Finals run is notable. Preseason focuses on internal development and depth.

Key Stats & Facts to Watch

• Jimmy Butler 2022-23: 22.9 PPG, 5.9 RPG, 5.3 APG. The engine of their team.
• Bam Adebayo 2022-23: 20.4 PPG, 9.2 RPG. His defensive anchor role is critical.
• Kevin Love re-signed; Josh Richardson added for depth.

Player Spotlight & Standings Impact

• Tyler Herro: Returning from injury, his offensive consistency and efficiency will be key for regular season scoring.
• Their defensive grit and ability to find hidden gems will determine if they remain a top-tier playoff threat in the East.

Orlando Magic

Which young big (Banchero, Wagner, Carter Jr.) will emerge as the clear offensive focal point?

• The Magic have a young, talented core. Preseason will reveal hierarchy in their developing offense.

Key Stats & Facts to Watch

• Paolo Banchero (ROTY) 2022-23: 20.0 PPG, 6.9 RPG. Expect continued growth.
• Franz Wagner 2022-23: 18.6 PPG, 4.1 RPG. His efficiency is high (58.4% TS).
• Wendell Carter Jr. 2022-23: 15.2 PPG, 8.7 RPG. Provides veteran interior presence.

Player Spotlight & Standings Impact

• Paolo Banchero: His development as a leader and go-to scorer will define their progress.
• A strong showing from their young core could see them climb out of the lottery and become a competitive, developing team.

Washington Wizards

What is the development trajectory for Jordan Poole and Kyle Kuzma as primary scorers on a rebuilding team?

• The Wizards are in full rebuild mode. Preseason focuses on individual development and potential trade assets.

Key Stats & Facts to Watch

• Jordan Poole 2022-23: 20.4 PPG, 4.5 APG. His efficiency (57.1% TS) and shot selection will be watched.
• Kyle Kuzma re-signed: 21.2 PPG, 7.2 RPG. Expected to maintain high usage.
• Wizards 2022-23 Defensive Rating: 115.6 (25th). Likely to remain low.

Player Spotlight & Standings Impact

• Jordan Poole: Given the keys to the offense, his consistency and decision-making are paramount for his new role.
• Expect them to finish near the bottom of the East, focused on accumulating draft picks and developing young talent.

Denver Nuggets

Can they maintain championship hunger and integrate new bench pieces after losing key role players?

• The reigning champions face the challenge of repeating. Preseason is about re-establishing focus and integrating new depth.

Key Stats & Facts to Watch

• Nikola Jokic 2022-23: 24.5 PPG, 11.8 RPG, 9.8 APG. Consistency is expected.
• Nuggets 2022-23 Offensive Rating: 118.0 (1st). Expect this to remain elite.
• Bruce Brown and Jeff Green departures mean more minutes for Christian Braun and rookies Julian Strawther, Jalen Pickett.

Player Spotlight & Standings Impact

• Christian Braun: His defensive energy and increased role off the bench will be critical for maintaining depth.
• Their ability to stay motivated and develop new bench pieces will determine if they can secure the #1 seed again.

Minnesota Timberwolves

Can Karl-Anthony Towns and Rudy Gobert finally mesh effectively for a full season alongside Anthony Edwards?

• The Towns-Gobert pairing has been inconsistent. Preseason is about optimizing their roles and defensive schemes.

Key Stats & Facts to Watch

• Anthony Edwards 2022-23: 24.6 PPG, 5.8 RPG, 4.4 APG. The clear offensive leader.
• Rudy Gobert 2022-23: 13.4 PPG, 11.6 RPG, 1.4 BPG. Needs to re-establish his DPOY impact.
• Timberwolves 2022-23 Defensive Rating: 113.1 (10th). Room for improvement given Gobert’s presence.

Player Spotlight & Standings Impact

• Karl-Anthony Towns: His offensive versatility and defensive commitment when playing alongside Gobert will be a major swing factor.
• If the frontcourt chemistry improves, they could be a formidable playoff team; otherwise, a play-in battle is likely.

Oklahoma City Thunder

How will Chet Holmgren’s debut impact their defense and offensive spacing, and are they ready for a playoff push?

• Holmgren’s return from injury is highly anticipated. Preseason will showcase his fit and the team’s readiness to compete.

Key Stats & Facts to Watch

• Shai Gilgeous-Alexander 2022-23: 31.4 PPG, 5.5 APG, 1.6 SPG. Elite two-way guard.
• Thunder 2022-23 Defensive Rating: 113.3 (13th). Holmgren’s rim protection can boost this.
• Holmgren’s collegiate block rate (10.9%) indicates high defensive potential.

Player Spotlight & Standings Impact

• Chet Holmgren: His defensive presence, shooting, and ability to run the floor are critical for their playoff aspirations.
• A successful integration of Holmgren could make them a legitimate playoff team, potentially moving out of the play-in.

Portland Trail Blazers

With Lillard gone, how will Scoot Henderson’s playmaking and scoring translate, and what’s the long-term vision?

• The Blazers have fully embraced a rebuild. Preseason will be a preview of their new, young core.

Key Stats & Facts to Watch

• Damian Lillard’s 2022-23: 32.2 PPG, 7.3 APG. His offensive production must be replaced by committee.
• Scoot Henderson (rookie): Explosive athleticism and playmaking will be on full display.
• Anfernee Simons 2022-23: 21.1 PPG. Expected to take on a primary scoring role.

Player Spotlight & Standings Impact

• Scoot Henderson: The primary focus will be on his leadership, decision-making, and scoring efficiency.
• This is a rebuilding year; their standing will be low, but the development of Henderson and Sharpe is key for future success.

Utah Jazz

Which of their numerous young prospects and draft picks will show the most promise for future core roles?

• The Jazz are deep in a youth movement. Preseason is a competitive tryout for many players.

Key Stats & Facts to Watch

• Lauri Markkanen 2022-23: 25.6 PPG, 8.6 RPG. All-Star, foundational piece.
• Jazz 2022-23 Offensive Rating: 115.9 (6th). Surprising efficiency last season.
• Taylor Hendricks (rookie), Keyonte George (rookie), Brice Sensabaugh (rookie) all vying for minutes.

Player Spotlight & Standings Impact

• Walker Kessler: His continued development as a rim protector and rebounder (2.3 BPG last year) is vital.
• The Jazz will likely remain in the lottery, focusing on developing their young talent and assessing future trade assets.

Golden State Warriors

How will Chris Paul fit into their offensive system, and can their core veterans stay healthy?

• The Warriors made a significant veteran addition. Preseason will assess Paul’s integration and fitness of key players.

Key Stats & Facts to Watch

• Stephen Curry 2022-23: 29.4 PPG, 6.3 APG. Continues to be the engine.
• Warriors 2022-23 Turnover Rate: 16.1% (28th). Chris Paul’s assist-to-turnover ratio (3.62) is elite and could help.
• Klay Thompson 2022-23: 21.9 PPG on 41.2% 3P. His efficiency is crucial.

Player Spotlight & Standings Impact

• Chris Paul: How he adapts to the off-ball movement and flow of the Warriors’ offense is a key storyline.
• Their blend of veteran experience and new additions could keep them in the top half of the Western Conference playoffs.

Los Angeles Clippers

Can their star duo Kawhi Leonard and Paul George maintain health and consistency for a deep playoff run?

• The Clippers’ championship hopes hinge on their star players’ availability. Preseason focuses on health and synergy.

Key Stats & Facts to Watch

• Kawhi Leonard 2022-23: 23.8 PPG on 50.4% FG (52 games). Needs more games played.
• Paul George 2022-23: 23.8 PPG on 45.7% FG (56 games). Also health-dependent.
• Westbrook re-signed for floor general duties.

Player Spotlight & Standings Impact

• Kawhi Leonard: His consistent health and elite two-way play are the single biggest factor for the Clippers.
• A healthy duo could push them for a top-four seed; otherwise, they risk another disappointing season and a lower seeding.

Los Angeles Lakers

Can their retooled roster and renewed chemistry translate into a top-tier Western Conference regular season finish?

• The Lakers found chemistry late last season. Preseason is about solidifying roles and maintaining momentum.

Key Stats & Facts to Watch

• LeBron James 2022-23: 28.9 PPG, 8.3 RPG, 6.8 APG. Age 38, managing his load is key.
• Anthony Davis 2022-23: 25.9 PPG, 12.5 RPG, 2.0 BPG. His defensive presence is crucial.
• Re-signed Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura; added Gabe Vincent and Christian Wood.

Player Spotlight & Standings Impact

• Austin Reaves: His continued efficiency and growth as a secondary playmaker will be vital for the Lakers’ depth.
• If healthy and cohesive, they have the talent to contend for a top-three seed in a competitive Western Conference.

Phoenix Suns

How quickly will the Big Three (Durant, Booker, Beal) establish synergy and defensive effort under Frank Vogel?

• The Suns’ star power is undeniable. Preseason is about offensive integration and establishing defensive identity.

Key Stats & Facts to Watch

• Kevin Durant 2022-23 (Suns): 26.0 PPG on 56.4% FG. Elite scorer.
• Devin Booker 2022-23: 27.8 PPG, 5.5 APG. Primary ball handler.
• Bradley Beal 2022-23: 23.2 PPG, 5.4 APG. Adds another dynamic scorer.
• Suns 2022-23 Defensive Rating: 113.8 (17th). Frank Vogel is known for defense; this needs improvement.

Player Spotlight & Standings Impact

• Jusuf Nurkic: His ability to anchor the defense and rebound will be critical, given the offensive focus of the “Big Three.”
• Their immediate chemistry will dictate if they challenge for the top seed, or if defensive shortcomings keep them slightly lower.

Sacramento Kings

Can their fast-paced offense evolve to consistently win in the playoffs, and who steps up defensively?

• The Kings surprised last season. Preseason will assess defensive growth and continued offensive evolution.

Key Stats & Facts to Watch

• De’Aaron Fox 2022-23: 25.0 PPG, 6.1 APG. Clutch player.
• Domantas Sabonis 2022-23: 19.1 PPG, 12.3 RPG, 7.3 APG. Triple-double threat.
• Kings 2022-23 Offensive Rating: 118.6 (2nd). Their pace (100.8, 4th) is key.
• 2022-23 Defensive Rating: 116.0 (24th). Needs significant improvement.

Player Spotlight & Standings Impact

• Keegan Murray: His development as a two-way wing, especially defensively, is crucial for sustained success.
• To solidify a top-four seed and make a deeper playoff run, defensive improvements are non-negotiable.

Dallas Mavericks

How will Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving’s second chapter together fare with a better supporting cast?

• The Mavericks re-tooled around their star guards. Preseason is about establishing consistent chemistry and defensive effort.

Key Stats & Facts to Watch

• Luka Doncic 2022-23: 32.4 PPG, 8.6 RPG, 8.0 APG. High usage (37.7%).
• Kyrie Irving 2022-23 (Mavericks): 27.0 PPG on 51.0% FG. Efficient scorer.
• Mavericks 2022-23 Defensive Rating: 116.4 (28th). Major area for improvement.
• Added Grant Williams for defensive grit and shooting.

Player Spotlight & Standings Impact

• Grant Williams: His defensive versatility and 3-point shooting (39.5% career) are vital additions.
• Their ability to defend and integrate new role players will determine if they are a playoff team or stuck in the play-in.

Houston Rockets

Can their veteran additions (VanVleet, Brooks) and Ime Udoka’s system elevate their young core to competitive basketball?

• The Rockets made significant free-agent splashes. Preseason will show Udoka’s defensive imprint and veteran leadership.

Key Stats & Facts to Watch

• Rockets 2022-23 Defensive Rating: 117.8 (30th). Udoka’s priority will be a massive jump here.
• Fred VanVleet 2022-23: 19.3 PPG, 7.2 APG. Veteran point guard and leader.
• Dillon Brooks 2022-23: 14.3 PPG, 0.9 SPG. Defensive specialist.
• Jalen Green 2022-23: 22.1 PPG. Needs to improve efficiency and defense.

Player Spotlight & Standings Impact

• Amen Thompson (rookie): His athleticism and playmaking potential will be integrated, but his shot needs work.
• With Udoka and veterans, they aim to be competitive, but are likely still a lottery team with an improved foundation.

Memphis Grizzlies

How will they navigate the start of the season without Ja Morant, and can Desmond Bane lead the offense?

• Morant’s suspension impacts their early season. Preseason will highlight alternative playmaking and offensive leadership.

Key Stats & Facts to Watch

• Ja Morant 2022-23: 26.2 PPG, 8.1 APG. Absence will be felt for 25 games.
• Desmond Bane 2022-23: 21.5 PPG on 40.8% 3P. Elevated scoring role.
• Marcus Smart acquired: 11.5 PPG, 6.3 APG, 1.5 SPG. Defensive intensity and playmaking.

Player Spotlight & Standings Impact

• Desmond Bane: His efficiency and shot creation will be under immense pressure as the primary scorer.
• Navigating Morant’s absence successfully will determine if they can secure a high seed or slide into the play-in race.

New Orleans Pelicans

Can Zion Williamson stay healthy and committed, and what’s the ceiling for this talented but often injured roster?

• Health remains the biggest question mark. Preseason will assess Williamson’s condition and overall team cohesion.

Key Stats & Facts to Watch

• Zion Williamson 2022-23: 26.0 PPG on 60.8% FG (29 games). Elite when available.
• Brandon Ingram 2022-23: 24.7 PPG, 5.8 APG (45 games). Key secondary scorer.
• Pelicans 2022-23 Offensive Rating: 114.7 (9th). Their offense is potent when healthy.

Player Spotlight & Standings Impact

• Zion Williamson: His durability and consistent availability are the single most important factor for the Pelicans.
• If healthy, they are a strong playoff contender. If injuries persist, they risk falling short of expectations again.

San Antonio Spurs

How quickly will Victor Wembanyama adapt to the NBA, and what foundational pieces emerge around him?

• The Spurs enter a new era with Wembanyama. Preseason will be a first look at his NBA readiness and immediate impact.

Key Stats & Facts to Watch

• Victor Wembanyama (rookie): His unique skill set and defensive potential are generational.
• Keldon Johnson 2022-23: 22.0 PPG. Will be a primary scorer alongside Wembanyama.
• Spurs 2022-23 Defensive Rating: 119.5 (30th). Wembanyama’s presence should improve this immediately.

Player Spotlight & Standings Impact

• Victor Wembanyama: Every facet of his game will be under intense scrutiny. His adaptation speed is the main story.
• The Spurs are firmly in a rebuilding phase, but Wembanyama’s immediate impact could make them surprisingly competitive at times.