UPDATE: The NBA offseason is officially over, and teams are gearing up for media day as the league prepares to kick off the 2025-26 season next month. As excitement builds, a recent survey of 20 league insiders reveals the best and worst offseason moves, predictions for MVP, and insights on player futures.
With teams making significant changes, the survey highlights which franchises excelled—like the Atlanta Hawks, who topped the list with 7 votes for the best offseason. The Hawks made bold moves, including acquiring Kristaps Porzingis and landing a valuable draft pick from the New Orleans Pelicans. “I think they’ll be one of the best teams in the East,” stated an executive.
In stark contrast, the New Orleans Pelicans were deemed to have the worst offseason, receiving an overwhelming 9 votes for their questionable moves, particularly concerning the acquisition of Jordan Poole in exchange for C.J. McCollumNikola Jokic leads the pack with 7 votes, followed closely by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander with 5 votes. “Jokic is the best player, and they’ll be better,” said a scout. The competition is heating up, with Luka Doncic and Victor Wembanyama also in the mix.
Looking ahead to the future, insiders overwhelmingly predict Anthony Edwards will be the best American player in five years, garnering 11 votes. “I don’t see anyone else catching him by then,” remarked a Western Conference scout. Meanwhile, rookie sensation Cooper Flagg is expected to dominate the upcoming season, leading the Rookie of the Year poll with 19 votes.
LeBron James, entering his 23rd season, remains a focal point of speculation. The survey indicates a divided opinion on whether he will retire or continue with the Los Angeles Lakers, with 7 votes predicting he will stay with the team next season. “If I was taking the Lakers or the field, I’d take the field,” stated one scout, highlighting the uncertainty surrounding the NBA icon’s future.
As the season approaches, all eyes will be on the Oklahoma City Thunder, who are favored to win the title again, receiving 18 votes. This optimism stems from their young and talented roster, fresh off their recent championship victory. No Eastern Conference team received a vote for the title, illustrating a clear divide in competition levels.
With the NBA season just weeks away, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how these predictions unfold. Expect an action-packed season filled with surprises, as teams vie for the coveted Larry O’Brien trophy. Stay tuned for more updates as the league progresses!