The NBA is Back: Preseason Basketball Kicks Off
The NBA is back. Well, sort of. Preseason basketball is here, and while the games may not technically count, they provide fans with their first glimpse into how all the offseason moves made around the league will play out. After a long summer filled with several stars switching teams and surprising free agency deals, the preseason is our first opportunity to overreact to various scenarios that will undoubtedly evolve as the regular season unfolds.
The Boston Celtics and Denver Nuggets are set to kick off preseason action in Abu Dhabi on Friday. But before the games begin, let’s dive into five compelling reasons to tune in as all 30 NBA teams inch closer to the start of the 2024-25 regular season.
1. Familiar Faces in New Places
This offseason saw a flurry of player movement, with numerous stars changing teams. Among the most notable are Paul George in Philadelphia, Klay Thompson in Dallas, Karl-Anthony Towns in New York, and Julius Randle in Minnesota. These high-profile moves have created a buzz around how these players will fit into their new environments.
One game to circle on your calendar is when the New York Knicks host the Minnesota Timberwolves on October 13. This matchup will mark the first time Towns and Randle face off against their former teams after a surprising blockbuster trade. Although it’s just a preseason game, Randle is sure to receive a warm welcome back to Madison Square Garden, making it a must-watch for fans.
2. The Rookies
While this year’s rookie class may not be as star-studded as last year’s, which featured the likes of Victor Wembanyama and Chet Holmgren, there are still plenty of intriguing prospects to keep an eye on. The top two picks from last June’s NBA Draft, Zacharie Risacher and Alexandre Sarr, will have ample opportunity to showcase their skills for the Atlanta Hawks and Washington Wizards, respectively.
However, all eyes may be on Reed Sheppard, selected third overall by the Houston Rockets. Sheppard had an impressive showing at the Las Vegas Summer League, averaging 20 points and five assists per game. If he can carry that momentum into the preseason, he could become a key player for a Rockets team looking to develop its young talent.
Another rookie to watch is 7-foot-4 center Zach Edey, who landed with the Memphis Grizzlies. Edey’s size and skill set could provide the frontcourt depth Memphis needs, and fans will be eager to see how he pairs with star guard Ja Morant in pick-and-roll situations.
3. LeBron and Bronny
For the Los Angeles Lakers, the most captivating storyline this season may revolve around the father-son duo of LeBron James and Bronny James. While the Lakers are still working to build a championship-caliber roster, the dynamic between LeBron and Bronny is sure to draw significant attention.
Training camp has already produced heartwarming stories about their relationship, and as the preseason unfolds, fans will get a closer look at Bronny’s development. Drafted in the late second round, Bronny’s journey through the NBA will be closely monitored, especially as LeBron has expressed a desire to play alongside his son.
Preseason games will serve as a benchmark for Bronny’s talents, helping fans gauge whether he’ll need time in the G League or if he can carve out a role on the Lakers’ roster. The excitement surrounding this duo adds an extra layer of intrigue to the Lakers’ season.
4. Lonzo Ball’s Return
After two and a half years away from the NBA due to knee surgeries, Lonzo Ball is finally ready to make his return. The Chicago Bulls are cautiously optimistic about his recovery, and Ball himself has expressed hope to be ready for the regular-season opener.
As he goes through training camp and preseason, all eyes will be on how Ball performs in game situations. If he can regain even 85% of his former self, he could become a valuable asset for the Bulls. His ability to facilitate, defend, and shoot from beyond the arc could make him a key contributor, and fans will be eager to see how he fits into the team’s plans.
5. The New-Look Knicks
The New York Knicks have emerged as one of the most intriguing teams entering the preseason, thanks to two blockbuster trades that brought in Karl-Anthony Towns and Mikal Bridges. With the recent loss of center Mitchell Robinson to injury, the Knicks addressed their frontcourt depth by acquiring Towns, who should seamlessly fit into their offensive scheme.
The pairing of Towns and Jalen Brunson promises to be one of the most exciting two-man games in the league. Additionally, the addition of Bridges provides the Knicks with a versatile 3-and-D player who can adapt to various roles. As the preseason kicks off on October 6, fans will be eager to see how these new additions impact the Knicks’ performance and chemistry on the court.
With so much to look forward to, the NBA preseason is shaping up to be an exciting time for fans as they get their first taste of the upcoming season. Whether it’s watching familiar faces in new places, keeping an eye on promising rookies, or following the stories of beloved players, there’s no shortage of action to enjoy as the league gears up for another thrilling year.