NBA Roundtable: The Biggest Challenges and Surprises for 2025
NBA Roundtable: The new year is here, and for NBA teams, it’s a chance to reset, regroup, or ramp up. Some teams, like the Oklahoma City Thunder and Boston Celtics, are cruising and looking to solidify their playoff positions. Others, like the Minnesota Timberwolves and Philadelphia 76ers, are desperate for a spark to turn their seasons around.
2024 gave us plenty to talk about: the Milwaukee Bucks captured the NBA Cup, the Cavaliers shocked everyone with a 15-0 start, and Victor Wembanyama proved his rookie season was just the beginning. But now it’s 2025, and the league is gearing up for what’s shaping up to be an exciting second half. Let’s break down the biggest questions and storylines.
Which Struggling Teams Can Turn It Around?
Not every team has had a dream season so far, but there’s still time for a comeback. Here are some contenders trying to get back on track:
Milwaukee Bucks:
It’s been a rocky start for the Bucks, with injuries and illnesses keeping their stars out of the lineup. Giannis Antetokounmpo hasn’t been 100%, Damian Lillard missed some time, and Khris Middleton is still finding his groove. Despite all that, this team has already proven they can compete—remember their NBA Cup win? If they get healthy and maybe add a piece at the trade deadline, don’t count them out.
Minnesota Timberwolves:
The Wolves thought they could move on from Karl-Anthony Towns and stay dominant in the West. That hasn’t gone as planned. They’ve been hanging around .500 for most of the season, but Anthony Edwards has been a bright spot. He’s stepping up as a leader, and the team is starting to click. They could make a run for a better playoff spot if things fall into place.
Philadelphia 76ers:
The Sixers have had their share of drama, but things are finally looking up. Joel Embiid and Paul George are back, and the team has one of the easiest schedules in the league for the rest of the season. They’re starting to find their rhythm, and with their talent, they could easily climb the standings.
Who Will Be the Breakout Star of 2025?
Every season brings new names to the spotlight. Here are a few players poised to make a big leap:
Victor Wembanyama (Spurs):
We all knew Wembanyama was special, but he’s already exceeding expectations. In December, he averaged nearly 29 points, 10 rebounds, and 4.5 blocks per game—while shooting 39% from three. Oh, and he had a 50-point game in November. If the Spurs can stay in the playoff hunt, Wembanyama’s going to keep turning heads.
Paolo Banchero (Magic):
Banchero started the season strong before an injury slowed him down. Now he’s getting ready to return, and the Magic need him more than ever. He’s already shown he can be the face of this young team, and if he can stay healthy, he’ll remind everyone why he was the No. 1 pick.
Jalen Johnson (Hawks):
This guy’s been quietly putting together an impressive season. He’s averaging nearly 20 points and 10 rebounds while playing a big role for the Hawks. He doesn’t rely on threes—most of his work is done in the paint—and it’s paying off. Watch out for him to grab some All-Star buzz.
Which Teams Could Surprise in the Playoffs?
Some teams are proving they’re more than just good regular-season stories.
Cleveland Cavaliers:
The Cavs have been on fire. They’ve got the best record in the league and a roster built for playoff success. Donovan Mitchell leads a dynamic backcourt, while Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen dominate the frontcourt. Add in solid depth, and this team has everything they need to make a deep run in the East.
Orlando Magic:
The Magic have been one of the toughest teams in the league, thanks to their defense. Even without Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner for stretches, they’ve stayed competitive. They made the playoffs last year, and that experience could make them a dangerous team this time around.
Houston Rockets:
Houston is all about defense, ranking near the top of the league. Their offense is still a work in progress, but coach Ime Udoka has built a team with a clear identity. If they can iron out their scoring issues, the Rockets could make some noise.
Source: NBA Roundtable: Biggest questions for the second half of the season
Which Coaches Are Under Pressure?
When teams struggle, coaches often take the heat. Here are a few whose seats might be getting warm:
Chauncey Billups (Blazers):
Portland is in rebuilding mode, so it’s not entirely fair to blame Billups for their struggles. He’s working with a young roster centered on Scoot Henderson and Shaedon Sharpe, but the losses are piling up. Billups might need more time, but the pressure is on.
Willie Green (Pelicans):
New Orleans has had terrible luck with injuries this season. Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram have missed a lot of time, and the team has the worst record in the league. Green’s a good coach, but in the NBA, results matter, and the Pelicans haven’t delivered.
Nick Nurse (76ers):
The Sixers had a rough start, but December brought a turnaround. Nurse has a championship on his résumé, so expectations are high. If the team falls short of a deep playoff run, his job could be in jeopardy.
What Are the Best Storylines to Watch?
There’s plenty to keep NBA fans entertained in the second half of the season:
The Cavaliers’ Rise:
Cleveland’s combination of star power and depth is making them one of the most exciting teams to watch. They’ve built a cushion at the top of the standings and could be the team to beat in the East.
The Battle of L.A.:
The Lakers and Clippers might finally deliver the rivalry everyone’s been waiting for. Both teams are playing well, and with Kawhi Leonard nearing a return, their matchups could have big playoff implications.
Ja Morant and the Grizzlies:
Memphis is fighting through injuries but still holding their own in the West. If they can get healthy and stay focused, they could make some serious noise come playoff time.
What About the Trade Deadline?
As always, the trade deadline could shake things up. Some teams will look to add pieces for a playoff push, while others will shift their focus to the draft. Keep an eye on teams like the Bucks, Lakers, and Warriors—they’re always aggressive when it comes to improving their rosters.
Fasten Your Seatbelts: The Race to the Playoffs is On
The NBA never fails to deliver drama, and 2025 is no exception. From struggling teams trying to bounce back to emerging stars and surprise playoff contenders, the league is full of intrigue. Whether it’s watching Victor Wembanyama continue his rise, the Cavaliers fight for the East, or the Lakers and Clippers battle for L.A. supremacy, there’s something for every fan to enjoy. Buckle up—it’s going to be a fun ride to the playoffs.
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