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In recent NBA history, the Boston Celtics have emerged as one of the most formidable champions, demonstrating their prowess by ranking among the top two teams in both offense and defense during the regular season, ultimately clinching their 18th title after only three playoff losses.
Although the NBA has not seen a repeat champion in seven years, it’s no surprise that the Celtics are favored to once again lift the Larry O’Brien Trophy in 2025. According to the 23rd annual NBA GM Survey, an impressive 83% of respondents believe Boston will achieve this, marking the third-highest percentage for a title prediction in the survey’s history. Coincidentally, the Celtics were also the most frequently mentioned team for both having the best defense and leading in offensive efficiency this season.
While the Celtics may not be home to the survey’s most popular players, GMs have recognized Jayson Tatum as the best small forward for the second consecutive year. Additionally, Jrue Holiday was acknowledged as the best perimeter defender in the league.
Interestingly, the survey identified a 20-year-old, who has played only 71 games in the NBA, as the best overall defender: Victor Wembanyama of the San Antonio Spurs. He is also the player that most decision-makers would choose to start a franchise with.
The GMs answered 50 diverse questions targeting the top teams, players, coaches, and offseason activities. It is worth noting that general managers were prohibited from voting for their own teams or personnel. The percentages are reflective of the respondents for each specific question rather than the total of all 30 GMs.
PREDICTIONS
Which team is predicted to win the 2025 NBA Finals?
1. Boston Celtics – 83%
2. Oklahoma City Thunder – 13%
3. Dallas Mavericks – 3%
» Last year: Boston Celtics & Denver“`html
Boston
97%
39%
New York
43%
37%
14%
22%
Philadelphia
50%
20%
17%
21%
Cleveland
3%
7%
20%
17%
9%
Milwaukee
13%
31%
6%
Orlando
10%
7%
3%
Indiana
14%
1%
</table“`html
This year, 53% of participants chose Boston as the favorite to win the East. Following the Celtics in popularity are Milwaukee, Cleveland, Philadelphia, New York, Miami, and Atlanta.
Western Conference Rankings
| Team | 1st | 2nd | 3rd | 4th | % Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
%Total = The percentage of total points (4 for a 1st place vote, 3 for 2nd, 2 for 3rd, 1 for 4th)
» Last year: 70% of voters predicted Denver would win the West, followed by Phoenix, L.A. Lakers, Golden State, LA Clippers, Memphis, New Orleans and Sacramento (tie), Dallas, and Oklahoma City.
PLAYERS
Who is projected to win the 2024-25 Kia MVP?
1. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Oklahoma City – 40%
2. Luka Doncic, Dallas – 30%
T-3. Joel Embiid, Philadelphia – 7%
T-3. Nikola Jokic, Denver – 7%
T-3. Jayson Tatum, Boston – 7%
» Also receiving votes: Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee; Jaylen Brown, Boston; Anthony Edwards, Minnesota
» Last year’s winner: Nikola Jokic – 43%
If you could start a franchise today and sign any player in the NBA, who would it be?
1. Victor Wembanyama, San Antonio – 77%
T-2. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Oklahoma City – 10%
T-2. Nikola Jokic, Denver – 10%
4. Luka Doncic, Dallas – 3%
» Last year: Nikola Jokic – 33%
Which player necessitates the most adjustments from opposing coaches?
1. Luka Doncic, Dallas – 33%
2. Stephen Curry, Golden State – 30%
3. Nikola Jokic, Denver – 23%
T-4. Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee – 7%
T-4. Joel Embiid, Philadelphia – 7%
» Last year: Stephen
Dallas; Tyrese Maxey, Philadelphia; Trey Murphy III, New Orleans; Keegan Murray, Sacramento; Andrew Nembhard, Indiana; Alperen Sengun, Houston; Cam Thomas, Brooklyn; Amen Thompson, Houston; Ausar Thompson, Detroit
» Last year: Anthony Edwards – 23%
Who is the best point guard in the NBA?
1. Luka Doncic, Dallas – 37%
2. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Oklahoma City – 30%
3. Stephen Curry, Golden State – 23%
4. Jalen Brunson, New York – 10%
» Last year: Stephen Curry – 63%
Who is the best shooting guard in the NBA?
1. Anthony Edwards, Minnesota – 33%
2. Devin Booker, Phoenix – 23%
3. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Oklahoma City – 20%
4. Stephen Curry, Golden State – 10%
5. Luka Doncic, Dallas – 7%
» Also receiving votes: Jaylen Brown, Boston; Derrick White, Boston
» Last year: Devin Booker – 63%
Who is the best small forward in the NBA?
1. Jayson Tatum, Boston – 47%
T-2. Luka Doncic, Dallas – 17%
T-2. Kevin Durant, Phoenix – 17%
T-2. LeBron James, L.A. Lakers – 17%
5. Jaylen Brown, Boston – 3%
» Last year: Jayson Tatum – 47%
Who is the best power forward in the NBA?
1. Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee – 77%
2. Kevin Durant, Phoenix – 7%
» Also receiving votes: Anthony Davis, L.A. Lakers; Draymond Green, Golden State; Domantas Sabonis, Sacramento; Jayson Tatum, Boston; Victor Wembanyama, San Antonio
» Last year: Giannis Antetokounmpo – 97%
Who is the best center in the NBA?
1. Nikola Jokic, Denver – 87%
2. Joel Embiid, Philadelphia – 10%
3. Victor Wembanyama, San Antonio – 3%
» Last year: Nikola Jokic – 93%
Highest percentage of total votes on position questions
1. Nikola Jokic, Denver – 17%
2. Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee – 15%
3. Luka Doncic, Dallas – 12%
T-4. Shai Gilgeous-A
Which player acquisition will have the greatest impact?
1. Paul George, Philadelphia – 60%
T-2. Mikal Bridges, New York – 13%
T-2. Karl-Anthony Towns, New York – 13%
4. Alex Caruso, Oklahoma City – 7%
» Also receiving votes: DeMar DeRozan, Sacramento; Isaiah Hartenstein, Oklahoma City
» Last year: Damian Lillard – 47%
What has been the most underrated player acquisition?
1. Alex Caruso, Oklahoma City – 23%
2. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Orlando – 17%
T-3. Isaiah Hartenstein, Oklahoma City – 13%
T-3. Tyus Jones, Phoenix – 13%
5. Klay Thompson, Dallas – 10%
6. Chris Paul, San Antonio – 7%
» Also receiving votes: Kyle Anderson, Golden State; Donte DiVincenzo, Minnesota; Josh Giddey, Chicago; Caleb Martin, Philadelphia; Gary Trent Jr., Milwaukee
» Last year: Marcus Smart – 17%
Which team is poised for the most improvement in 2024-25?
1. Memphis Grizzlies – 67%
2. San Antonio Spurs – 13%
3. Philadelphia 76ers – 7%
» Also receiving votes: Detroit Pistons, Houston Rockets, Orlando Magic, Phoenix Suns
» Last year: Oklahoma City Thunder – 30%
What was the most surprising transaction of the offseason?
1. Karl-Anthony Towns to New York – 27%
2. Paul George to Philadelphia – 23%
3. DeMar DeRozan to Sacramento – 17%
4. Mikal Bridges to New York – 10%
5. Zaccharie Risacher drafted No. 1 – 7%
» Also receiving votes: Deni Avdija to Portland; Tyus Jones to Phoenix; Caleb Martin to Philadelphia; Dejounte Murray to New Orleans; Klay Thompson to Dallas
» Last year: Holiday/Lillard trade – 43%
ROOKIES & INTERNATIONAL
Who is favored to win the 2024-25 Rookie of the Year?
1. Reed Sheppard, Houston – 50%
2. Zach Edey, Memphis – 30%
3. Stephon Castle, San Antonio – 13%
» Also receiving votes: Ron Holland II, Detroit; Alex Sarr, Washington
» Last year: Victor Wembanyama –“`html
#993300;”>T-1. Bub Carrington (14), Washington – 10%
T-1. Devin Carter (13), Sacramento – 10%
T-1. Johnny Furphy (35), Indiana – 10%
T-1. Dalton Knecht (17), L.A. Lakers – 10%
T-1. Terrence Shannon Jr. (27), Minnesota – 10%
T-1. Nikola Topic (12), Oklahoma City – 10%
T-7. Matas Buzelis (11), Chicago – 7%
T-7. Donovan Clingan (7), Portland – 7%
» Additional votes: Cam Christie (46), LA Clippers; Isaiah Collier (29), Utah; Zach Edey (9), Memphis; Kyle Filipowski (32), Utah; Jared McCain (16), Philadelphia; Baylor Scheierman (30), Boston; Reed Sheppard (3), Houston; Cody Williams (10), Utah
» Previous year result: Cam Whitmore – 43%
Who is the top international player in the NBA?
1. Nikola Jokic, Denver – 87%
2. Luka Doncic, Dallas – 10%
3. Victor Wembanyama, San Antonio – 3%
» Previous year result: Nikola Jokic – 80%
Who is the best international player NOT playing in the NBA?
1. Sasha Vezenkov – 30%
2. Nikola Mirotic – 23%
3. Edy Tavares – 17%
4. Nolan Traore – 10%
T-5. Dzanan Musa – 7%
T-5. Cedi Osman – 7%
» Additional votes: Boban Marjanovic, Armel Traore
» Previous year result: Nikola Mirotic – 37%
DEFENSE
Who is recognized as the best defensive player in the NBA?
1. Victor Wembanyama, San Antonio – 40%
T-2. Bam Adebayo, Miami – 10%
T-2. Rudy Gobert, Minnesota – 10%
T-2. Jrue Holiday, Boston – 10%
T-5. Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee – 7%
T-5. Anthony Davis, L.A. Lakers – 7%
T-5. Herb Jones, New Orleans – 7%
» Additional votes: Alex Caruso, Oklahoma City; Jaden McDaniels, Minnesota; Marcus Smart,“`html
1. Victor Wembanyama, San Antonio – 40%
2. Rudy Gobert, Minnesota – 37%
3. Anthony Davis, L.A. Lakers – 10%
4. Bam Adebayo, Miami – 7%
» Additional votes: Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee; Jaren Jackson Jr., Memphis
» Previous year: Jaren Jackson Jr. – 30%
Who is the most versatile defender in the NBA?
1. Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee – 17%
T-2. OG Anunoby, New York – 13%
T-2. Victor Wembanyama, San Antonio – 13%
4. Bam Adebayo, Miami – 10%
T-5. Jrue Holiday, Boston – 7%
T-5. Jonathan Isaac, Orlando – 7%
T-5. Herb Jones, New Orleans – 7%
T-5. Jaden McDaniels, Minnesota – 7%
» Additional votes: Alex Caruso, Oklahoma City; Lu Dort, Oklahoma City; Aaron Gordon, Denver; Evan Mobley, Cleveland; Marcus Smart, Memphis; Jalen Williams, Oklahoma City
» Previous year: Giannis Antetokounmpo – 37%
Which team boasts the best defense in the NBA?
1. Boston Celtics – 57%
2. Minnesota Timberwolves – 23%
3. Oklahoma City Thunder – 20%
» Previous year: Boston Celtics – 47%
COACHES
Who is the top head coach in the NBA?
1. Erik Spoelstra, Miami – 69%
2. Mark Daigneault, Oklahoma City – 17%
3. Steve Kerr, Golden State – 7%
» Additional votes: Mike Budenholzer, Phoenix; Chris Finch, Minnesota
» Previous year: Erik Spoelstra – 73%
Which head coach excels at managing and motivating people?
1. Erik Spoelstra, Miami – 37%
2. Steve Kerr, Golden State – 17%
T-3. Joe Mazzulla, Boston – 10%
T-3. Gregg Popovich, San Antonio – 10%
T-3. Doc Rivers, Milwaukee – 10%
6. Jason Kidd, Dallas – 7%
» Additional votes: Mark Daigneault, Oklahoma City; Michael Malone, Denver; Tom Thibodeau, New York
» Previous year: Erik Spoelstra – 37%
Which head coach is known for making the best in-game adjustments?
<span style="color: #993
– 17%
3. Chris Finch, Minnesota – 13%
4. Steve Kerr, Golden State – 10%
» Additional votes received: Mark Daigneault, Oklahoma City; Michael Malone, Denver; Nick Nurse, Philadelphia; Erik Spoelstra, Miami
» Previous year: Mike Brown – 33%
Which head coach is known for having the most effective defensive strategies?
1. Erik Spoelstra, Miami – 23%
T-2. Chris Finch, Minnesota – 20%
T-2. Tom Thibodeau, New York – 20%
4. Joe Mazzulla, Boston – 17%
5. Mark Daigneault, Oklahoma City – 10%
6. Jamahl Mosley, Orlando – 7%
7. Ime Udoka, Houston – 3%
» Previous year: Erik Spoelstra – 40%
Which new or relocated head coach is expected to have the greatest impact on their new team?
1. Mike Budenholzer, Phoenix – 40%
T-2. Kenny Atkinson, Cleveland – 20%
T-2. J.B. Bickerstaff, Detroit – 20%
4. Charles Lee, Charlotte – 10%
5. Jordi Fernandez, Brooklyn – 7%
6. JJ Redick, L.A. Lakers – 3%
» Previous year: Ime Udoka – 57%
Who is recognized as the top assistant coach in the NBA?
T-1. Sam Cassell, Boston – 17%
T-1. Micah Nori, Minnesota – 17%
3. Sean Sweeney, Dallas – 10%
T-4. Chris Quinn, Miami – 7%
T-4. Jeff Van Gundy, LA Clippers – 7%
» Additional votes received: David Adelman, Denver; Pat Delany, Toronto; Chris DeMarco, Golden State; Lindsey Harding, L.A. Lakers; Trevor Hendry, Cleveland; Juwan Howard, Brooklyn; Royal Ivey, Houston; Jay Larranaga, LA Clippers; Josh Longstaff, Charlotte; Dale Osborne, Orlando; Jordan Ott, Cleveland; Terry Stotts, Golden State; Jay Triano, Sacramento
» Previous year: Jordi Fernandez – 31%
Which active player is likely to become a successful head coach in the future?
1. Chris Paul, San Antonio – 30%
2. Garrett Temple, Toronto – 20%
3. Mike Conley, Minnesota – 13%
T-4. T.J. McConnell, Indiana – 7%
T-4. Fred VanVleet, Houston – 7%
» Additional votes received: Harrison Barnes, San Antonio; Bradley Beal, Phoenix; Jalen Brunson, New York; Jr
1. Denver Nuggets – 47%
2. Oklahoma City Thunder – 17%
T-3. Boston Celtics – 13%
T-3. New York Knicks – 13%
5. Utah Jazz – 7%
6. Sacramento Kings – 3%
» Last year: Denver Nuggets – 37%
Which team is expected to have the most effective offense this season?
1. Boston Celtics – 53%
2. Indiana Pacers – 20%
3. Oklahoma City Thunder – 13%
4. Dallas Mavericks – 7%
» Additional votes: New York Knicks, Phoenix Suns
» Last year: Denver Nuggets – 34%
Which team’s success is the most challenging to forecast this season?
1. Los Angeles Lakers – 17%
T-2. Houston Rockets – 13%
T-2. New Orleans Pelicans – 13%
4. Phoenix Suns – 10%
T-5. Dallas Mavericks – 7%
T-5. Philadelphia 76ers – 7%
» Additional votes: Denver Nuggets, Indiana Pacers, LA Clippers, Memphis Grizzlies, Miami Heat, Milwaukee Bucks, Minnesota Timberwolves, New York Knicks, Orlando Magic, Sacramento Kings
» Last year: Philadelphia 76ers – 30%
Which team boasts the most promising youthful roster?
1. Oklahoma City Thunder – 60%
2. Orlando Magic – 20%
3. Houston Rockets – 10%
4. San Antonio Spurs – 7%
5. Detroit Pistons – 3%
» Last year: Oklahoma City Thunder – 73%
Who is the most athletic player?
1. Anthony Edwards, Minnesota – 45%
2. Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee – 17%
3. Amen Thompson, Houston – 10%
T-4. Ja Morant, Memphis – 7%
T-4. Ausar Thompson, Detroit – 7%
» Additional votes: Bam Adebayo, Miami; Jalen Green, Houston; Jonathan Kuminga, Golden State; Zion Williamson, New Orleans
» Last year: Ja Morant – 34%
Who is regarded as the best pure shooter?
1. Stephen Curry, Golden State – 87%
» Additional votes: Kevin Durant, Phoenix; Luke Kennard, Memphis; Trey Murphy III, New Orleans; Klay Thompson, Dallas
» Last year: Stephen Curry – 90%
Who is the fastest player with the ball?
1. De’Aaron Fox, Sacramento – 52%1. Nikola Jokic, Denver – 70%
2. Luka Doncic, Dallas – 17%
3. Tyrese Haliburton, Indiana – 10%
4. Josh Giddey, Chicago – 3%
» L’année précédente : Nikola Jokic – 67%
Quel joueur est le meilleur leader ?
1. Stephen Curry, Golden State – 33%
T-2. Jalen Brunson, New York – 23%
T-2. LeBron James, L.A. Lakers – 23%
T-4. Jrue Holiday, Boston – 7%
T-4. Nikola Jokic, Denver – 7%
T-4. Chris Paul, San Antonio – 7%
» L’année précédente : LeBron James – 27%
Qui est le joueur le plus polyvalent de la NBA ?
1. Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee – 30%
2. LeBron James, L.A. Lakers – 20%
T-3. Kevin Durant, Phoenix – 10%
T-3. Jayson Tatum, Boston – 10%
T-3. Victor Wembanyama, San Antonio – 10%
6. Mikal Bridges, New York – 7%
» Également mentionnés : Bam Adebayo, Miami ; Jrue Holiday, Boston ; Nikola Jokic, Denver ; Amen Thompson, Houston
» L’année précédente : Giannis Antetokounmpo – 45%
Quel joueur possède le meilleur QI basket ?
1. Nikola Jokic, Denver – 53%
2. LeBron James, L.A. Lakers – 30%
T-3. Luka Doncic, Dallas – 7%
T-3. Chris Paul, San Antonio – 7%
5. Tyrese Haliburton, Indiana – 3%
» L’année précédente : Nikola Jokic – 50%
Qui aimeriez-vous avoir pour prendre un tir avec le match en jeu ?
1. Stephen Curry, Golden State – 40%
2. Kevin Durant, Phoenix – 23%
3. Luka Doncic, Dallas – 10%
T-4. Nikola Jokic, Denver – 7%
T-4. Damian Lillard, Milwaukee – 7%
» Également mentionnés : DeMar DeRozan, Sacramento ; Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Oklahoma City ; Kyrie Irving, Dallas ; Jamal Murray, Denver
» L’année précédente : Stephen Curry – 37%
Quel règlement (
John Schuhmann serves as a senior stats analyst for NBA.com. You can reach him via email here, explore his archive here, and follow him on X.
The opinions expressed on this page do not necessarily represent those of the NBA, its teams, or Warner Bros. Discovery.
NBA GM Survey 2024: Boston Celtics Dominating Predictions for 2025 Championship
Overview of the NBA GM Survey 2024
The NBA General Manager Survey for the 2024-25 season has generated significant buzz, particularly around the Boston Celtics, who have emerged as the favorites for the 2025 Championship. This survey, which captures insights from various GMs across the league, reflects the strategic thinking and expectations for the upcoming season. GMs responded to 50 questions covering teams, players, coaching tactics, and offseason moves, providing a comprehensive outlook on the league’s competitive landscape.
Boston Celtics: A Closer Look
In the latest survey, the Boston Celtics have been identified as the team most likely to clinch the 2025 NBA Championship. Several factors contribute to their strong positioning:
Star Power
- Jayson Tatum: The Celtics’ star forward has consistently elevated his game and is viewed as one of the league’s top players.
- Jaylen Brown: His dynamic scoring ability and defensive prowess make him an invaluable asset to the Celtics’ success.
- Depth and Talent: Alongside Tatum and Brown, players like Marcus Smart and newly acquired talent bolster the Celtics’ roster.
Coaching and Strategy
The Celtics’ coaching staff, under the guidance of head coach Joe Mazzulla, has implemented effective strategies that leverage the strengths of their roster. Mazzulla’s approach to player development and game management has received high praise from GMs, showcasing his ability to adapt and innovate.
Defensive Prowess
One of the standout features of the Celtics is their defensive capabilities. Analysts note that their defensive rating ranks among the top in the league, making them a formidable opponent in high-stakes games. GMs have highlighted their ability to disrupt opposing offenses and create turnovers, a critical factor for playoff success.
Key Competitors in the 2025 Championship Race
While the Celtics are favored to win, the competition remains fierce with several teams potentially challenging their dominance:
Top Contenders
- Milwaukee Bucks: With Giannis Antetokounmpo leading the charge, the Bucks are perennial contenders and will likely pose a significant threat.
- Denver Nuggets: As the defending champions, Denver’s strong core and playoff experience make them a team to watch.
- Golden State Warriors: With their championship pedigree and a healthy roster, the Warriors cannot be discounted.
Highlights from the GM Survey
Below are some notable insights gathered from the 2024-25 NBA GM Survey regarding various teams and players:
| Category | Favorite Response | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 Champion | Boston Celtics | Depth and star power highlighted as key strengths. |
| Best Player | Jayson Tatum | Considered the most impactful player moving forward. |
| Best Coach | Joe Mazzulla | Innovative strategies and strong player relationships. |
| Top Defense | Boston Celtics | Noted for their ability to guard multiple positions. |
Impact of Offseason Moves
The NBA offseason saw significant player movement that could shape the championship landscape. The Celtics made strategic acquisitions that strengthened their roster:
Key Acquisitions
- Veteran Signings: Adding experienced players who can contribute immediately.
- Draft Picks: The Celtics’ selections in the draft have been lauded for their potential to develop into future stars.
Benefits of Strong Team Dynamics
The Boston Celtics have demonstrated the importance of team chemistry and dynamics in their pursuit of a championship. Here are some benefits of a cohesive team:
- Enhanced Performance: Players who communicate effectively and understand each other’s game styles can significantly improve on-court performance.
- Resilience in Pressure Situations: A united team is better equipped to handle the stresses of playoff basketball.
- Player Development: A supportive environment fosters the growth of young talents, essential for long-term success.
First-Hand Experiences from Celtics Players
Celtics players have expressed confidence in their chances for the upcoming season. In interviews, they emphasized the importance of hard work and dedication, citing their strong training camp and preseason performances.
Player Testimonials
Here are some key takeaways from player quotes:
- Jayson Tatum: “We’ve put in the work this offseason, and we’re ready to compete for a title.”
- Jaylen Brown: “Our chemistry has never been better. We’re excited about what’s ahead.”
Looking Ahead: The Road to the Finals
The path to the NBA Finals is always challenging, and while the Boston Celtics are the favorites, their journey will be paved with tough matchups and potential hurdles. Monitoring how they adapt throughout the season will be critical to their championship aspirations.
Schedule and Key Matchups
Here’s a glance at the upcoming schedule for the Celtics, highlighting key matchups to watch:
| Date | Opponent | Location |
|---|---|---|
| October 15, 2024 | Milwaukee Bucks | Home |
| November 5, 2024 | Denver Nuggets | Away |
| December 12, 2024 | Golden State Warriors | Home |
Conclusion: The Celtics’ Championship Quest
As the NBA season approaches, the Boston Celtics are positioned as frontrunners for the 2025 Championship according to the NBA GM Survey. With a blend of star talent, effective coaching, and solid team dynamics, they are poised to make a significant impact. Fans and analysts alike will be eagerly watching as the season unfolds and the Celtics aim to convert predictions into reality.
