by The National Basketball Association (NBA) stands as a global colossus, transcending boundaries and time zones to become more than just a sports league—it is a phenomenon that has etched its indelible mark on the world stage.
While the NBA is undoubtedly centered in North America, it has evolved into a global sporting juggernaut, capturing the imaginations and passions of millions on nearly every continent. From the courts of New York City to the bustling streets of Shanghai, the NBA has become an international cultural touchstone.
With that said, The NBA season is always filled with excitement and anticipation as fans worldwide wonder which team will ultimately emerge as the champion. Here are some teams to consider picking:
The Los Angeles Lakers have always been a force to be reckoned with, boasting a rich history of success. Led by LeBron James, one of the greatest players of all time, and superstar Anthony Davis, the Lakers’ strength lies in their combination of experience and youthful talent. They excel on both ends of the floor, making them a formidable contender. You can follow the Lakers and how their odds are when you go sports betting here.
Speaking of youthful talent, the Lakers now have a legit star in Austin Reeves. As a testament to his playing skill, Reeves was picked for Team USA, who played in the recent FIBA tournament. Although many fan-favorites from last year’s roster are with different teams now, with the recent additions of Taurean Prince, Gabe Vincent, Cam Reddish, Jaxson Hayes, and Christian Wood, the Lakers are looking good at winning this year’s championship.
The Milwaukee Bucks, led by Giannis Antetokounmpo, have consistently been one of the top teams in the league. Giannis’s athleticism and versatility make them a tough defensive team while their offensive game continues to improve.
The drama unfolded last offseason as Damian Lillard wanted out of Portland and specifically wanted to play in Miami. However, things took a turn, and Lillard landed in Milwaukee. With a Hall of Fame shooter on his side, Giannis and the whole Milwaukee franchise have been reinvigorated and poised to win their second title.
Coming off a disastrous playoff performance last season, the dust has finally settled for the Phoenix Suns. With the late addition of Kevin Durant last season, it seemed as though the Suns were going to win. However, the Denver Nuggets stopped them cold in their tracks. This season, however, the Suns have reworked their roster and acquired Bradley Beal from the Wizards.
Bradley Beal is an all-star scorer, which adds another perimeter threat to the Suns offense. With a monster big three, Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal, Phoenix will surely be up for championship considerations this season.
We won’t leave the defending NBA champs out of this list. League and Finals MVP Nikola Jokic has undoubtedly established himself as one of the premiere big men in the league. Jamal Murray proved naysayers wrong by returning from a devastating injury and helping the Nuggets with their title win against the Miami Heat last season.
Although many of their key championship pieces departed for other teams, the Nuggets are still considered strong contenders for this year’s title. With balanced plays, elite shooting, and high basketball IQ, it’s no wonder why many people like the Nuggets to win.
Led by Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, the Celtics have a dynamic young duo that can compete with the best. Tatum is a scoring machine with a versatile offensive game, while Brown is an elite two-way player. Although the Celtics are a strong team on paper, they were met with a lot of disappointing finishes the last two seasons.
This offseason, the Boston Celtics are making changes to make their run at the title. Although they let go of defensive stalwart Marcus Smart, they got one as an elite scorer and big in Kristaps Porzingis. To make up for their lost defense, they also got all-star defender Jrue Holiday. With a complete lineup, the Boston Celtics are soaring high in many experts’ and fan’s predictions.
The Warriors were seemingly in rebuild mode this season, but the recent signing of Chris Paul suggests otherwise. By unloading on cap space by trading Jordan Poole for Chris Paul, the Warriors land a legendary playmaker with fewer cap implications.
If the Warriors want to win, they must do it this season. Stephen Curry is still Stephen Curry, but it’s already the 14th season for him. Klay Thompson is still a capable shooter, but the rumor is that he wants out if he doesn’t get more. Draymond Green is also not getting any better and is slowly becoming a Udonis Haslem role for the Warriors.
Thankfully, the Warriors now have cap space that allows them to sign a talented player to help them in their championship run. It remains to be seen who they’re signing, but many people still think that the Warriors still have what it takes to win.
The NBA season is almost here, and many fans from all over the world are now starting to pick teams to win it all. Will it be the Lakers? Will the Celtics get back to their winning ways? Can the Nuggets defend? Or will a new team reign supreme this season? Time can only tell
