The 2024-25 NBA season has already delivered a mix of thrilling surprises and frustrating underperformances just weeks into its campaign. Teams are rewriting preseason expectations, with some proving far better than anticipated and others falling well short of the hype. From standout starts in Cleveland to unexpected struggles in Milwaukee, here’s a breakdown of the biggest surprises and disappointments in the NBA standings.
Cleveland Cavaliers Dominate With a Historic Start
The Cleveland Cavaliers have stunned the league, boasting a 13-0 start, the best since the historic 2015-16 Golden State Warriors. Under new coach Kenny Atkinson, the Cavs’ “core four” of Donovan Mitchell, Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen has gelled seamlessly. Cleveland leads the league in net rating, with duos like Mitchell-Mobley (+13.9) and Garland-Allen (+8.4) driving their success. A blowout win over the Warriors last week signaled their legitimacy as serious contenders in the East.
NBA STANDINGS UPDATE ‼️
▪️ CLE moves to 13-0, 6th best start ever
▪️ OKC and BOS tally 10th wins
▪️ ORL wins 4th straight, 6-0 at home
▪️ LAL wins 3rd straight, 6-0 at home pic.twitter.com/yYBV37Q7Kh— NBA (@NBA) November 14, 2024
Golden State Warriors Revive ‘Strength in Numbers’ Philosophy
The Golden State Warriors, led by an energized Stephen Curry, have returned to form, tied for the best record in the Western Conference. With a top-three defense and a renewed commitment to team basketball, the Warriors resemble their title-winning squads of the past. Coach Steve Kerr has embraced depth and defensive intensity, making the Warriors a legitimate threat in the West once again.
Detroit Pistons Show Growth and Potential
The Detroit Pistons, long regarded as Eastern Conference bottom-dwellers, are showing signs of promise. A 5-8 start might not seem remarkable, but it’s a significant improvement for a team that didn’t reach five wins until mid-January last season. Cade Cunningham has emerged as the franchise leader, averaging 23.8 points and a career-high 8.5 assists per game. Detroit’s strong foundation suggests a potential push for the play-in tournament.
Brooklyn Nets Defy Tanking Expectations
Despite offseason trades signaling a potential rebuild, the Brooklyn Nets have been surprisingly competitive. Veterans like Dennis Schroder are leading the charge, with Schroder averaging 19.3 points on 46.2% three-point shooting. While Brooklyn’s long-term plan might still involve rebuilding, their spirited play positions them as intriguing sellers at the trade deadline.
Biggest Disappointments in the East: Bucks and 76ers
Milwaukee Bucks’ Shockingly Slow Start
With just four wins in their first 12 games, the Milwaukee Bucks are far from the championship contenders they were expected to be. Despite Giannis Antetokounmpo’s MVP-level performance (33.3 points, 12.1 rebounds, 5.5 assists per game), the Bucks have struggled to integrate new acquisition Damian Lillard. Defensive issues and limited roster flexibility raise concerns about their ability to climb out of this early hole.
Philadelphia 76ers Struggle Without Consistency
The 76ers, touted as a top contender after adding Paul George in the offseason, have stumbled to a slow start. Injuries to Joel Embiid and George have disrupted the team’s chemistry. While Tyrese Maxey has shown flashes of brilliance, Philadelphia’s inability to capitalize on winnable games has made their playoff prospects murkier.
Western Conference Surprises: Clippers Find Resilience
The LA Clippers have weathered early challenges, including Kawhi Leonard’s knee injury, to claw their way back to a respectable position. Norman Powell has stepped up with career-best numbers, while James Harden is contributing despite shooting struggles. Derrick Jones Jr.’s defensive impact has also been key, helping the Clippers rank 11th in defensive efficiency.
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Underperformers in the West: Lakers and Pelicans
Lakers’ Depth and Injuries Raise Concerns
The Los Angeles Lakers, led by LeBron James and Anthony Davis, are hovering near .500 but face significant challenges. Anthony Davis’s ongoing injury issues and a lack of depth have exposed vulnerabilities. While JJ Redick’s coaching adjustments have been creative, the Lakers’ lack of consistency puts their playoff aspirations in jeopardy.
Pelicans Derailed by Injuries
The New Orleans Pelicans, once considered dark-horse contenders, are reeling from injuries to key players like Zion Williamson, CJ McCollum, and Dejounte Murray. Their absence has stalled momentum, and in a highly competitive Western Conference, recovering from a slow start could prove insurmountable.
Bold Predictions for the Season Ahead
Jokic Poised for Another MVP
Nikola Jokic is making a strong case for his fourth MVP award with career-best numbers in scoring, rebounds, and assists. The Denver Nuggets’ thin roster places even more responsibility on Jokic, but his transcendent play ensures Denver remains a top contender.
Warriors to Reach the Conference Finals
With Curry still playing at an elite level and the team rediscovering its defensive identity, the Warriors are poised for a deep playoff run. Their depth and versatility make them a formidable opponent in the West.
Pistons to Win a Play-In Game
Under J.B. Bickerstaff, the Detroit Pistons are quietly building a competitive team. With Cade Cunningham and Jaden Ivey thriving in a more balanced offensive system, Detroit could not only make the play-in tournament but also advance.
Magic’s Playoff Hopes Dim Without Banchero
The Orlando Magic face a tough road ahead after losing Paolo Banchero to injury. While the East remains open, Orlando’s young roster will need to rally in his absence to stay in the playoff picture.
The 2024-25 NBA season has already upended expectations with standout performances from teams like the Cavaliers and Warriors, while preseason favorites like the Bucks and 76ers struggle to find their footing. With injuries playing a significant role and teams adjusting to new rosters and coaches, the standings remain fluid. As the season progresses, expect more surprises, bold performances, and a reshuffling of playoff contenders.
