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Following a trade for four-time All-Star Karl-Anthony Towns, the New York Knicks have welcomed a new star to the Big Apple. However, it wouldn’t be surprising if point guard Jalen Brunson, known for his steady performance in the backcourt, emerges as a strong contender for the NBA’s most prestigious individual award.
This is just one of the audacious projections made by the NBA staff at The Athletic for the upcoming 2024-25 season. Explore the rest of their predictions:
An exploration of the greatest players in NBA history. In 100 captivating profiles, leading basketball writers articulate their selections and delve into the history of the NBA.
The narrative of the greatest players in NBA history.
Atlantic Division
Boston Celtics
Baylor Scheierman will make an impact: The Celtics, returning 13 players from last season’s championship squad, have limited rotation space and cannot afford to emphasize the growth of young talent. Nevertheless, the team’s first-round draft choice, Scheierman, is expected to find playing time. While his sharpshooting may garner attention, it will be his astute decision-making and intelligent play that quickly establish him as a valuable role player. Having gained 10-15 pounds during the offseason to better contend with NBA physicality, his defense should be adequate enough to ensure he gets playing chances. — Jay King
Brooklyn Nets
Cam Johnson and Dorian Finney-Smith are likely to be traded: The Nets’ situation is relatively predictable as they continue to seek a definitive franchise player. Following what is anticipated to be a challenging season, their focus is likely to turn towards the 2025 draft. A sensible move would be to trade Johnson and Finney-Smith to teams willing to sacrifice quality draft picks and young players with potential. The Nets present a nearly blank slate, allowing them to provide developmental opportunities, while Johnson and Finney-Smith can help“`html
lineup he’s ever had. As long as I continue to see his improvement, I anticipate another leap forward. New York is poised for success, and their offense is expected to rank among the best in the league. Brunson stands out as the team’s most effective offensive player. All of this could potentially culminate in an MVP award. — James L. Edwards III
GO DEEPER
In New York, this is Jalen Brunson’s world — the one he created
Philadelphia 76ers
Ricky Council IV will start by midseason: The Sixers underwent a significant transformation this summer, enhancing their roster with veteran perimeter players. This change opens up numerous lineup possibilities for Nick Nurse to explore with newcomer Paul George and the team’s established stars. Kelly Oubre finished the previous season demonstrating defensive improvements while carving out a solid offensive role. Caleb Martin, who joins from Miami, has the versatility to adapt in various positions, although his performance can be inconsistent. With the abundance of offensive talent in the starting five, Council’s defensive skills might earn him a spot, potentially pushing either Martin or Oubre to the bench. Philadelphia requires a tenacious defender at the point of attack, and George, apart from Council, is the team’s best defender on the perimeter and may face excessive pressure. During summer league play, Council shot 42 percent from beyond the arc, indicating his potential as a viable spacing option while contributing robustly on the defensive end. — Jared Weiss
Toronto Raptors
Raptors will finish bottom four in the East: The consensus lists the Nets, Bulls, Hornets, Pistons, and Wizards as the Eastern Conference’s lowest five teams. However, the Raptors urgently require some affordable talent to complement Scottie Barnes and Immanuel Quickley. It wouldn’t take much—possibly a trade involving Jakob Poeltl—to compromise their defensive foundation, consequently resulting in many losses. I believe they will somehow navigate through this challenge. — Eric Koreen
Central Division
Chicago Bulls
Bulls will make the Play-In: For the third consecutive season, the Bulls will vie for a playoff spot but ultimately fall short. They are likely to outperform expectations, causing anxiety among their long-suffering fan base, who may fear that the top-10 protected pick owed to San Antonio will be lost. However, there’s no need for concern. The Bulls will retain their selection while striving to make it an interesting season. — Darnell Mayberry
Cleveland Cavaliers
Cavs will trade one of their ‘core four’: And it won’t be Donovan Mitchell. The Cavs are set to enter this season with their roster entirely unchanged. This is a solid and costly team, but evidence suggests that their pieces may not blend seamlessly for greatness. Perhaps new coach Kenny Atkinson“`html
Whether it’s the Raptors or even the Hawks, I wouldn’t be shocked. — James L. Edwards III
Indiana Pacers
Pacers will finish in the top four in the East: I have mixed feelings about the Pacers’ prospects in the playoffs. I see Boston, New York, and Philadelphia as the top three teams in the East, but for the race for fourth, I’m leaning towards Indiana. Pascal Siakam is an excellent addition, Tyrese Haliburton is developing into a premier point guard (and player), their chances improve with a healthy Bennedict Mathurin, and I have confidence in Andrew Nembhard’s contributions to this squad. Plus, they still have Myles Turner. Their playoff run last season as a battered No. 6 seed was impressive. This season, they will demonstrate that what we witnessed last spring was no fluke. — Joe Vardon
Can Tyrese Haliburton and the Pacers build on their East finals appearance from last year? (Trevor Ruszkowski / USA Today)
Milwaukee Bucks
Another MVP for Giannis: Antetokounmpo had an extraordinary season last year. He became the first player in NBA history to average at least 30 points and 10 rebounds per game while shooting over 60 percent from the field. If the Bucks can secure a top-two seed in a competitive Eastern Conference, they will provide Antetokounmpo with the team success necessary to re-enter the MVP conversation, and he will undoubtedly have the individual statistics to support it. — Eric Nehm
Southeast Division
Atlanta Hawks
Jalen Johnson will average 20 points per game: With Dejounte Murray’s 26.6 percent usage rate no longer with the team and no new players taking on those extra possessions, Johnson is expected“`html
Last season, the Hornets appear to be progressing positively with a new head of basketball operations and a fresh head coach. They’ve also reintroduced Kemba Walker as an assistant coach. LaMelo Ball is back to full health, and Brandon Miller emerged as the top rookie in the league among players under 7 feet tall last season. While there will undoubtedly be some growing pains, Charlotte may possess more potential than anticipated. — Mike Vorkunov
Miami Heat
Bam Adebayo is poised to become a genuine 3-point threat: Adebayo demonstrated last season his effectiveness from beyond the arc, and the Heat require additional offensive options. He has expressed his intention to take over 100 3-pointers this season, and his collaboration with Erik Spoelstra during the Olympics convinced the head coach that Adebayo is ready to broaden his skill set. If Adebayo can consistently make those outside shots, he might have the most productive offensive season of his career, which would open up opportunities for a Miami squad that has struggled offensively, even when both Jimmy Butler and Tyler Herro are at their best. — Will Guillory
Orlando Magic
3-point shooting is set to improve: Long-range shooting was a major weakness for Orlando last season, particularly in the playoffs, where the team failed to convert open 3-pointers in its series against Cleveland. The signing of Kentavious Caldwell-Pope was one of the offseason’s standout moves, and he will likely find plenty of open looks thanks to drive-and-kick plays from Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner. Rookie Tristan da Silva could become an essential role player and floor spacer as the playoffs approach. However, whether these additions will be sufficient to push the Magic beyond the first round of the playoffs—or even keep them out of the East’s Play-In tournament—hinges on Wagner’s ability to rebound from a career-low 3-point percentage and on point guard Jalen Suggs maintaining his notable shooting improvements from the previous season. — Josh Robbins
GO DEEPER
Developing his game and voice, Paolo Banchero seeks to dominate in Year 3
Washington Wizards
Jordan Poole’s statistics will improve: During his inaugural season with the Wizards, Poole faced challenges prior to the All-Star break, averaging 15.6 points per game with a 40 percent shooting rate. However, after the break, with increased ball handling and less time alongside Tyus Jones, he boosted his average to 20.9 points on 43 percent shooting. This season, it’s clear that Poole will serve as Washington’s main playmaker, and with Brian Keefe as the new coach, the team aims to adopt a faster tempo. This strategy will lead to more possessions, more shooting opportunities, and increased chances for assists. Although Poole’s efficiency remains in question, his overall statistics“`html
Last season, the Wolves’ offense struggled to find its rhythm, finishing ranked 17th in offensive efficiency. However, with the addition of Donte DiVincenzo’s shooting prowess and Julius Randle’s playmaking abilities, along with expanded roles for Jaden McDaniels and Naz Reid, the Wolves are poised to improve significantly as a collective offensive unit this season. — Jon Krawczynski
Oklahoma City Thunder
Jalen Williams will win NBA Most Improved Player: Williams reached a new level last season, gaining recognition as Oklahoma City made its rise to the top of the Western Conference. As he enters his third year, he is now a contender for All-Star selections. Not only was Williams among the NBA’s most efficient shooters last season, but he also excelled in playmaking during crucial moments, particularly when coach Mark Daigneault utilized him with the second unit. His passing and pick-and-roll intelligence improved significantly as the season progressed, and he was given tougher defensive responsibilities. In matchups against teams like the Spurs, it was Williams, not Chet Holmgren, who took on the challenge of defending 7-foot-4 Victor Wembanyama. If he maintains this upward trajectory, it’s likely he will achieve a remarkable average of 25 points along with elite defense and supplementary playmaking. That time may be just around the corner. — Fred Katz
Jalen Williams defends Victor Wembanyama last season. (Rob Ferguson / USA Today)
Portland Trail Blazers
Shaedon Sharpe becomes a household name: During his third season, the 21-year-old shooting guard is expected to win the slam dunk contest at All-Star Weekend (mark my words) and should emerge as the leading scorer for the Blazers. Despite the recent announcement that Sharpe will“`html
Pass and dribble. He is capable of playing and defending on both wings. His skill set will earn him playing time. Utah’s ambition to secure the top pick in the 2025 NBA Draft will provide Williams with the opportunity to make an impact. The talent will take care of the rest. — Tony Jones
Pacific Division
Golden State Warriors
A significant trade will occur: In a somewhat improved version, the Warriors face the same issue as last season. They possess ample rotation-level NBA talent but lack sufficient high-end scoring or playmaking beside Stephen Curry. I expect they will secure enough wins to remain competitive for the playoffs, frustrate a few capable players who find themselves sidelined in the rotation, and as January or February approaches, identify a consolidation trade that enhances the team’s balance and rotation. They have the first-round picks, flexible contracts, and young prospects necessary to facilitate a deal. They claim they will be assertive in pursuing upgrades. Curry is likely to use some polite influence if a reasonable upgrade becomes available. Additionally, Jonathan Kuminga’s contract negotiations are worth watching. If he signs an extension in October, collective bargaining rules will render him nearly impossible to trade until next summer. If he does not (which is my current prediction), he will remain a valuable and enticing trade asset. — Anthony Slater
GO DEEPER
Thompson: Draymond Green is here to build the Warriors’ next title, whenever it comes
LA Clippers
A starter is set to be traded: The Clippers cannot afford to tank this season due to the potential for a swap of their first-round pick with the Thunder. Additionally, under Steve Ballmer, who is unveiling a new arena this year, tanking is off the table. President of basketball operations Lawrence Frank takes pride in the team’s 13-year streak of winning seasons—the longest in the league. However, he has a history of executing trades every season, including the major trade involving Blake Griffin in January 2018. Depending on the team’s performance as the year progresses, no player should be considered untouchable, including Kawhi Leonard and James Harden. — Law Murray
Los Angeles Lakers
Anthony Davis will finish in the top five of MVP voting: The last time Davis finished in the top five for MVP voting was during the 2017-18 season, where he earned third place at just 24 years old with the Pelicans. Coming off what are arguably his best performances as a Laker and a stellar summer as the top big man on the U.S. Olympic team, the buzz around Lakers training camp indicates that coach JJ Redick plans to utilize Davis as a playmaking hub from the elbow and beyond the three-point line. If Davis maintains his health and the Lakers build on their impressive 18-6 record with their starters—two significant “ifs”—Davis should contend for both the NBA MVP
In close conference games, even a few swing results can significantly impact whether a season is viewed as successful or a disappointment. The Kings have brought on De’Aaron Fox and DeMar DeRozan to bolster their roster. Last season, Fox topped the league in clutch points, while DeRozan secured the second spot in clutch points for the past two seasons. The Kings’ faith in DeRozan, despite potential fit challenges, stems from their confidence that both Fox and DeRozan can lead them to victory in the crucial moments of those evenly matched games. The correctness of this belief could ultimately shape their season. — Anthony Slater
Southwest Division
Dallas Mavericks
Mavs finish outside the top four: The idea of the defending Western Conference champions ending up below the top half may not be as far-fetched as it seems. The Western Conference is packed with talent, which will likely create a chaotic landscape. Although the Mavericks were strong in the second half of last season, they still boasted only the fourth-best net rating after the All-Star break. Luka Dončić participated in the second-most games of his career last season. They have acquired Klay Thompson, who will turn 35 in February. Additionally, external surprises from other teams could also impact Dallas. While it’s possible that they could rack up 50 wins again, they might still find themselves outside the top four. — Mike Vorkunov
Houston Rockets
Rockets will finish top six in the West: You might think I’m crazy, but I believe the Rockets have only begun to tap into their defensive potential under head coach Ime Udoka. This training camp, Houston has prioritized correcting some of the mistakes made last season, and the improved Alperen Şengün—now
and Marcus Smart (who is likely to defend elite wings). Pippen can participate in 50 games before Memphis must elevate him to a full roster position, though they may choose to do so earlier. — John Hollinger
New Orleans Pelicans
Zion Williamson will earn a spot on an All-NBA team: All indicators suggest that Williamson is entering this season in one of the best mental and physical states of his career. He concluded the 2023-24 season by showcasing the finest performances of his career prior to his unfortunate injury during the Play-In Tournament against the Lakers. We already recognize his prowess on the offensive side. However, if he can maintain the same energy and determination on defense that we witnessed from him in March and April, there’s no doubt he will establish himself as one of the league’s top 15 players. — Will Guillory
San Antonio Spurs
Wemby and CP3 pave the path to the Play-In: Victor Wembanyama’s outstanding Olympic journey concluded with a disappointing loss to Team USA, a setback he will carry with him for a considerable time. Think of it as his origin story. He is likely a frontrunner for the NBA Most Improved Player award, and the acquisition of Chris Paul, even at 39 years old, should remedy the Spurs’ lackluster 13-28 record in clutch situations. Harrison Barnes will maintain the floor-spacing until Devin Vassell returns, and coach Gregg Popovich will likely pull off yet another remarkable feat. — Kelly Iko
(Illustration by Kelsea Petersen / The Athletic; top photos: Patrick Smith, Michael Reaves, Elsa / Getty Images)
Bold Predictions for the 2024-25 NBA Season: Can Jalen Brunson Claim MVP Amid Knicks’ New Era?
The Rise of Jalen Brunson
Jalen Brunson has emerged as a pivotal figure for the New York Knicks. Following his impressive performance in the previous season, many analysts are speculating whether he can elevate his game to MVP levels. Let’s explore the factors that could contribute to Brunson’s potential rise to the MVP throne in the 2024-25 NBA season.
1. The Knicks’ New Era
The New York Knicks are entering a transformative phase, with a roster that blends youthful energy and veteran experience. Key factors driving this new era include:
- Strategic Acquisitions: The Knicks have made significant offseason moves to bolster their lineup, including adding a versatile scorer and a defensive powerhouse.
- Coaching Stability: With a solid coaching staff committed to developing players, Brunson can thrive in a structured environment that emphasizes teamwork and accountability.
- Increased Expectations: With a playoff berth in the prior season, the Knicks are under pressure to build on their success, providing Brunson with the motivation to elevate his game further.
2. Statistical Projections
For Brunson to be considered for the MVP award, he will need to significantly improve his statistical output. Here’s a projection of his potential stats for the upcoming season:
| Statistic | 2023-24 Season | Predicted 2024-25 Season |
|---|---|---|
| Points per Game | 24.0 | 28.5 |
| Assists per Game | 6.2 | 8.0 |
| Rebounds per Game | 4.0 | 5.0 |
| Field Goal Percentage | 48.0% | 50.0% |
3. Factors Influencing MVP Candidacy
Brunson’s MVP candidacy hinges on several critical factors, including:
Team Performance
A player’s MVP chances are often tied to their team’s success. The Knicks must not only make the playoffs but aim for a top seed in the Eastern Conference. A strong finish could elevate Brunson’s profile in the MVP race.
Individual Performance
Brunson needs to showcase elite performances consistently. This includes:
- Scoring Efficiency: Maintaining a high points-per-game average while improving shooting percentages.
- Playmaking: Increasing assists and minimizing turnovers will showcase his role as a floor general.
- Defensive Contribution: Enhancing his defense will add another dimension to his game, making him a well-rounded candidate.
Media Attention
MVP discussions often involve media narratives. If Brunson can capture the media’s attention through highlight performances and clutch moments, his MVP case will strengthen.
4. Comparisons to Previous MVPs
To understand Brunson’s potential MVP candidacy, it’s insightful to compare his style and performance to past MVP winners. Notable MVPs like Steph Curry and Nikola Jokić have demonstrated exceptional skills in their respective positions. Here’s a look at how Brunson stacks up:
| MVP Winner | Points per Game | Assists per Game | Rebounds per Game</th |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steph Curry | 30.1 | 6.7 | 5.4 |
| Nikola Jokić | 26.4 | 8.3 | 10.3 |
| Jalen Brunson (Projected) | 28.5 | 8.0 | 5.0 |
5. Benefits of an MVP Performance
If Jalen Brunson can achieve MVP status, the implications would be profound:
- Franchise Recognition: Brunson’s success would solidify the Knicks as a legitimate contender.
- Player Development: His growth could inspire younger players within the organization, fostering a culture of excellence.
- Marketability: An MVP season would enhance Brunson’s brand, increasing his visibility in endorsements and sponsorships.
6. Case Studies of MVP Seasons
Looking back at the journeys of past MVPs provides a roadmap for Brunson. For instance:
- Giannis Antetokounmpo (2019-20): Giannis improved his shooting and led the Bucks to the best record in the league.
- Joel Embiid (2022-23): Embiid’s dominance on both ends of the floor and his ability to carry the 76ers made him a standout choice.
7. Practical Tips for Brunson and the Knicks
For Brunson to maximize his MVP potential, consider the following strategies:
- Nutrition and Conditioning: Maintaining peak physical health will allow him to perform consistently throughout the rigorous NBA season.
- Film Study: Analyzing game tape to refine skills and adapt to opponents can enhance his effectiveness.
- Team Chemistry: Building rapport with teammates will lead to better on-court synergy and increased assists.
8. Conclusion
The 2024-25 NBA season presents an exciting opportunity for Jalen Brunson and the New York Knicks. With the right combination of personal development, team success, and media engagement, Brunson could very well claim the MVP title. As he steps into this new era, all eyes will be on him to see if he can rise to the occasion and solidify his legacy in the league.
