The NBA has returned. Well, sort of. Preseason basketball is upon us, and although these games don’t officially count, they provide our initial glimpse into how the numerous offseason changes around the league will unfold. This long summer saw multiple stars changing teams alongside surprising free-agent signings and trades, meaning the preseason offers us an early chance to react to a variety of scenarios that will likely shift in a few months.
The Celtics and Nuggets will kick off the preseason in Abu Dhabi on Friday. In the meantime, here are five compelling reasons to tune in as all 30 NBA teams edge closer to the 2024-25 regular season.
1. Familiar faces in new places
Numerous players changed teams this offseason, but we’ll pay special attention to those whose signings or trades sent shockwaves through the league. Keep an eye on Paul George in Philadelphia, Klay Thompson in Dallas, Karl-Anthony Towns in New York, and Julius Randle in Minnesota. These prominent names are just the tip of the iceberg. While it’s hard to glean too much from preseason games, as the regulars typically operate at half-speed to prepare for the main event, we will get our first taste of how these players fit into their new settings.
One game to note is when the Knicks host the Timberwolves on October 13. This matchup marks the first time Towns and Randle will face their former teams following a stunning blockbuster trade that moved the two All-Stars to different rosters. Though it’s just a preseason game, Randle is sure to receive a warm welcome as he returns to Madison Square Garden shortly after the trade.
2. The rookies
This year’s rookie class may not be as captivating as last year’s, which introduced us to talents like Victor Wembanyama and Chet Holmgren. However, this incoming group could still surprise us, and the preseason is an ideal time for it to happen. The top two picks from June’s NBA Draft, Zachcharie Risacher and Alexandre Sarr, will have plenty of opportunities to shine in their roles with the Hawks and Wizards, respectively. However, all eyes may be on Reed Sheppard, who was selected third overall by the Rockets and could make an immediate impact as the team looks to develop. If Sheppard translates his sharpshooting from Kentucky and solid performance in the Las Vegas Summer League (20 points and five assists per game), he could carve out a major role in Houston’s rotation.
Another promising rookie is the 7-foot-4, 305-pound center, Zach Edey. The former Purdue star joined a Memphis team that requires some frontcourt depth, and a highlight moment featuring him in a pick-and-roll with Ja Morant is sure to circulate on social media.
3. LeBron and Bronny
Unless the Lakers pull off a significant trade that puts them in the championship discussion, the most captivating aspect of their season may be the father-son duo clad in purple and gold. We have already encountered our share of heartwarming stories from the Lakers’ training camp, reminiscent of a classic sitcom, and that trend is likely to continue as more fans tune in. Anthony Davis has mentioned the competitive spirit between LeBron and Bronny, with playful banter occurring between them as the duo has guarded each other during practices.
Beyond the narratives, the preseason will serve as an essential benchmark for evaluating Bronny’s abilities and his position within the Lakers’ roster. Despite being a late second-round draft pick, which typically relegates players to the G League, the Lakers’ decision to draft Bronny was influenced by LeBron. Consequently, the four-time champion will likely play a role in his son’s NBA journey. The preseason will reveal whether Bronny needs to develop in the G League, if he can secure a spot at the end of the bench, or potentially even earn a place in the regular rotation.
It has been two and a half years since Lonzo Ball last played in the NBA. During his hiatus, he underwent three knee surgeries and faced setbacks during his recovery process. He is now ready to return to the court. Ball expressed his hopes of being available for Chicago’s regular-season opener, a sentiment echoed by Bulls president Arturas Karnisovas, who emphasized the need to assess Ball’s performance during training camp and preseason. So far, Ball has participated in the initial days of training camp without any limitations.
Watching how this translates into game action will be crucial. Ball seems to acknowledge that he may not regain his pre-surgery athleticism; however, if he can return to even 85% of his previous skill set, he will be a valuable, defensively minded guard for the Bulls. If Ball can indeed regain all his former abilities, including being a consistent 3-point shooter, an elite facilitator, and a shutdown defender, then Billy Donovan will face a tough decision regarding his spot in the starting lineup.
5. The new-look Knicks
The Knicks enter the preseason as the most compelling team in the league, bolstered by two significant trades that brought Karl-Anthony Towns and Mikal Bridges to New York. I previously wrote about the Knicks facing questions regarding frontcourt depth after losing Isaiah Hartenstein in free agency. This concern was highlighted when it was announced that center Mitchell Robinson would be sidelined until at least December or January due to an ankle injury. The Knicks clearly addressed their frontcourt needs decisively by trading Randle for Towns, adding size and an offensive component that better suits their requirements than Randle did.
On paper, Towns should fit effortlessly into a Knicks offense that craves shooting and floor spacing. The two-man game between him and Jalen Brunson promises to be among the best in the league, and we’ll get our first look at this pairing during the preseason. However, it’s not only Towns’ addition that makes the Knicks so intriguing; Mikal Bridges, who the team acquired earlier in the offseason, brings premier 3-and-D capabilities and a proven ability to adapt to various roles. The Knicks addressed their deficiencies this summer, and when they kick off the preseason on October 6, we’ll witness the early results of their bold moves.
Five Reasons to Tune into the NBA Preseason: New Faces, Rising Rookies, and More
1. Experience the Excitement of New Faces
The NBA preseason is a thrilling opportunity to see new faces as teams welcome fresh talent from the draft, trades, and free agent signings. Teams often use this time to integrate newcomers into their systems and showcase their potential. Here are some key aspects to look for:
- New Draft Picks: The excitement surrounding rookie players is palpable, especially when they are top draft picks. Fans can witness how these young athletes adapt to the professional league.
- Key Trades: Significant trades can shake up team dynamics, and the preseason is where these adjustments begin to take shape.
- Free Agent Signings: Teams often make strategic additions in the offseason, and the preseason allows fans to see how these players fit into their new roles.
2. Rising Rookies Making Their Mark
One of the most compelling reasons to tune into the NBA preseason is the emergence of rising rookies. Each year, we see young players seize the opportunity to make a statement. Here’s why this matters:
- Developing Skills: The preseason is critical for rookies to develop their skills against professional competition. Watching them grow game by game is especially rewarding for fans.
- First Impressions: The preseason allows rookies to make a lasting impression on coaches and fans alike. A standout performance can set the tone for an unforgettable career.
- Team Chemistry: Observing how rookies mesh with established players provides insight into the team’s potential success in the regular season.
3. Behind-the-Scenes Strategies
The NBA preseason is not just about the players; coaches are busy implementing new strategies and testing lineups. Understanding these changes can enhance your viewing experience:
- Tactical Adjustments: Coaches often experiment with different tactics to see what works best, giving fans insight into the team’s game plan.
- Rotation Insights: Analyzing how coaches rotate players can provide clues about who will thrive during the regular season.
- Playbook Reveals: The preseason is a great time to catch glimpses of new plays and strategies that could define the season.
4. Building Team Chemistry
The camaraderie between players can significantly influence a team’s performance. The preseason is essential for fostering this chemistry:
- On-Court Communication: Watch how players communicate and work together on the court, which is crucial for success in high-stakes situations.
- Off-Court Bonds: The bonds formed off the court often translate into better collaboration during the game.
- Settling into Roles: Players take this time to understand their roles within the team, which can lead to smoother gameplay during the regular season.
5. Affordable and Accessible Basketball
The NBA preseason offers an affordable way to enjoy basketball. With ticket prices often lower than regular-season games, fans can experience the game live without breaking the bank:
- Lower Ticket Prices: Fans can often find deals and promotions for preseason games, making it easier to attend.
- Smaller Crowds: Preseason games typically attract fewer fans, allowing for a more intimate atmosphere.
- Family-Friendly Options: The affordable prices and smaller crowds make preseason games an excellent option for families looking to introduce their children to live basketball.
Practical Tips for Enjoying the NBA Preseason
To make the most of your preseason experience, consider these practical tips:
- Follow Team Social Media: Stay updated with teams’ social media channels for the latest news on player performances and game schedules.
- Watch Preseason Highlights: Catch the best moments from preseason games on NBA’s official website or YouTube channel to stay in the loop.
- Engage with Fellow Fans: Join online forums or social media groups to share insights and discuss games with other fans.
Case Study: Last Season’s Standout Rookies
Let’s take a look at a couple of standout rookies from last season’s NBA preseason:
| Player | Team | Preseason Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Paolo Banchero | Orlando Magic | Dominated with scoring and playmaking skills, earning attention as a top rookie. |
| Jaden Ivey | Detroit Pistons | Showcased exceptional speed and shooting accuracy, hinting at a bright future. |
Fan Experiences: What to Expect at Preseason Games
Attending a preseason game can be a fantastic experience. Here’s what to expect:
- Player Interactions: Fans often have more opportunities for autographs and photos due to smaller crowds.
- Interactive Events: Many teams host fan engagement activities during the preseason, enhancing the overall experience.
- Merchandise Sales: Preseason games can offer unique merchandise promotions, perfect for fans looking to support their team.
As the NBA preseason approaches, it’s the perfect time for basketball enthusiasts to gear up for an exciting season ahead. Enjoy the thrill of discovering new talent, witnessing team strategies, and experiencing live games at a fraction of the cost!
