The Oklahoma City Thunder`s recent championship win against the Indiana Pacers in Game 7 marks the end of the 2024-25 NBA season and highlights the league`s current era of parity, with OKC being the seventh different champion in as many years. As teams look ahead to the 2025 offseason, the focus immediately shifts to challenging the new champions.
This analysis examines all 30 NBA franchises, assessing their current standing in the pursuit of a championship and identifying their key offseason priorities. Teams are categorized into 10 tiers based on their title contention level, from genuine contenders to teams in full rebuild mode. Within each tier, teams are listed alphabetically, with salary cap information and draft pick assets noted (courtesy of ESPN`s Bobby Marks).
Genuine NBA Title Contender
Oklahoma City Thunder (68-14)
Total players under contract: 15
Projected salary cap space: None
Total tradable picks: 10 first-round picks, 17 second-round picks
Having just secured their first championship, the Thunder boast a remarkably young core, with only two players over 27 and none older than 31. Their roster depth is significant, with 15 players currently under contract and two additional first-round picks incoming from this year`s draft, necessitating roster adjustments this summer. Oklahoma City possesses an exceptional wealth of draft capital (10 first-round, 17 second-round picks). The team strategically avoided the luxury tax this past season and is positioned to do so again next year, building financial flexibility for future extensions for rising stars like Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren, and a potential supermax deal for Shai Gilgeous-Alexander as the core becomes more costly.
Eastern Conference Frontrunners
Cleveland Cavaliers (64-18)
Total players under contract: 10
Projected salary cap space: None
Total tradable picks: 1 first-round pick, 4 second-round picks
The Cavaliers enjoyed a strong regular season, achieving the franchise`s second-highest win total, but were disappointingly eliminated in the Eastern Conference semifinals by the Pacers. Their options for significant roster upgrades appear limited. Decisions are pending on players like Ty Jerome and Sam Merrill, who are due for substantial raises from their previous salaries ($2.5M and $2.1M respectively). Without trades, the team is largely expected to return with a similar roster.
New York Knicks (51-31)
Total players under contract: 10
Projected salary cap space: None
Total tradable picks: 1 first-round pick, 7 second-round picks
The Knicks reached the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time in 25 years but surprisingly parted ways with coach Tom Thibodeau as their initial major offseason change. Beyond finding a new head coach, the team aims to strengthen its roster. They anticipate being able to utilize the $5.6 million taxpayer midlevel exception while remaining below the second tax apron – the challenge is securing a significant impact player with this. New York also seeks to add depth beyond its core seven players, leveraging the city`s appeal, team competitiveness, and potential playing time for minimum-contract players. Alternatively, they might explore larger trades involving players from their current top seven to acquire a star. A potential extension for Mikal Bridges also looms. Dismissing Thibodeau signals the Knicks` ambition extends beyond mere success; they`ve set their sights on reaching the Finals by 2026.
Top Western Conference Teams
Denver Nuggets (50-32)
Total players under contract: 11
Projected salary cap space: None
Total tradable picks: 1 first-round pick, 1 second-round pick
The Nuggets could potentially have celebrated their second championship in three years if not for a spectacular fourth-quarter performance by OKC`s Luguentz Dort in Game 5 of the conference semifinals. Instead, they are dealing with a second consecutive second-round exit in seven games. A key offseason task is appointing a new head of basketball operations after David Adelman was confirmed as coach. The incoming general manager faces immediate roster decisions, including prioritizing an extension for promising young guard Christian Braun. The Nuggets will need to find ways to improve their roster with limited resources to compete with the reigning champions, OKC.
Houston Rockets (52-30)
Total players under contract: 11
Projected salary cap space: None
Total tradable picks: 4 first-round picks, 2 second-round picks
The Rockets had a remarkable season, finishing second in the conference before a hard-fought seven-game loss to the Warriors in the first round revealed a need for offensive improvement. They addressed this by acquiring future Hall of Famer Kevin Durant just hours before Game 7 of the Finals, trading Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, and the 10th overall pick. This move also positions the Rockets to potentially acquire another star if one becomes available. Fred VanVleet`s $44 million team option is expected to be picked up or renegotiated, keeping him in Houston.
Minnesota Timberwolves (49-33)
Total players under contract: 8
Projected salary cap space: None
Total tradable picks: no first-round picks, 4 second-round picks
Achieving back-to-back appearances in the conference finals provides reason for optimism in Minnesota. However, as new owners Marc Lore and Alex Rodriguez assume full control this summer, significant decisions await. A primary question is whether General Manager Tim Connelly will remain with the franchise, as he has an opt-out clause. The status of pending unrestricted free agents Julius Randle and Naz Reid (both with player options) and Nickeil Alexander-Walker also needs to be resolved. Connelly expressed confidence in retaining all three, recognizing that the Timberwolves cannot afford to regress in the competitive Western Conference.
Elite Contenders Facing Injury Setbacks
Boston Celtics (61-21)
Total players under contract: 11
Projected salary cap space: None
Total tradable picks: 2 first-round picks, 5 second-round picks
The Celtics face one of the most intriguing offseasons in recent NBA history, largely due to Jayson Tatum`s torn left Achilles tendon. This injury raises significant questions for a team that has dominated the Eastern Conference for nearly a decade, especially as new owner Bill Chisholm prepares to take over. Even before Tatum`s injury, doubts existed about whether Boston would assemble the league`s first $500 million roster, which now seems highly improbable. The decisions Boston makes this summer could have widespread ripple effects across the league. Furthermore, the future of long-time veteran Al Horford is uncertain; following Tatum`s injury, could Horford choose to play elsewhere? His skills as a stretch-big remain valuable and would complement any contending team, even at age 39.
Indiana Pacers (50-32)
Total players under contract: 10
Projected salary cap space: None
Total tradable picks: 4 first-round picks, 8 second-round picks
Following their unexpected journey to the NBA Finals, coming just short of a championship, attention turns to Tyrese Haliburton`s recovery from the right Achilles injury sustained in Game 7. While the Pacers demonstrated resilience in the playoffs, replicating this success would be challenging if Haliburton is sidelined for the entire next season. Meanwhile, they must address the future of Myles Turner, a key piece of their five-out offense and the top center available in free agency. The Pacers are anticipated to re-sign Turner, with the primary question being whether they are willing to enter the luxury tax to do so.
Milwaukee Bucks (48-34)
Total players under contract: 7
Projected salary cap space: None
Total tradable picks: 1 first-round pick, 2 second-round picks
Similar to the Celtics, the Bucks face a critical decision regarding Giannis Antetokounmpo`s future with the franchise, which could impact the entire league. After 12 seasons, there are questions about Milwaukee`s potential competitiveness next season following Damian Lillard`s torn left Achilles tendon. The team is reportedly looking to avoid the luxury tax after incurring significant costs in recent years, which could mean long-time veteran and unrestricted free agent Brook Lopez becomes too expensive to retain.
Teams Reliant on Veteran Stars
Golden State Warriors (48-34)
Total players under contract: 9
Projected salary cap space: None
Total tradable picks: 4 first-round picks, 1 second-round pick
After acquiring Jimmy Butler III at the trade deadline, Golden State managed to win a playoff series before Stephen Curry`s injury led to a five-game elimination by the Timberwolves in the second round. The focus now shifts to what promises to be another busy summer in the Bay Area, starting with complex negotiations for restricted free agent forward Jonathan Kuminga. The Warriors will likely either agree to a new contract with him or execute a sign-and-trade for additional roster help. Both paths present challenges. Regardless, Golden State needs to enhance its roster to remain competitive in the challenging Western Conference.
LA Clippers (50-32)
Total players under contract: 10
Projected salary cap space: None
Total tradable picks: 2 first-round picks, 4 second-round picks
The Clippers exceeded expectations this season, finishing fifth in the West and pushing the Nuggets to a thrilling seven-game series in the first round. Their main offseason priorities involve resolving James Harden`s future ($36.3 million player option) and determining whether to extend Norman Powell, who is coming off a career-best season ($20.4 million expiring contract in 2025-26). The Clippers may have significant cap space available via the full midlevel exception or could leverage their financial flexibility for trades.
Los Angeles Lakers (50-32)
Total players under contract: 10
Projected salary cap space: None
Total tradable picks: 1 first-round pick, 1 second-round pick
Summer for the Lakers is consistently newsworthy, and this year is no exception, especially following the franchise`s record $10 billion sale. A major point of anticipation is LeBron James` decision at age 40 regarding his $52.6 million player option for next season – whether he opts in (with or without an extension) or opts out for a new deal. Forward Dorian Finney-Smith ($15.3 million option) has similar choices. The team also awaits Luka Doncic`s decision on an extension, which could leave them uncertain until next summer. Austin Reaves is eligible for an extension on his $13.9 million contract. Finally, after declining the Mark Williams trade in February, the Lakers still need to acquire a rim-running center to complement Doncic.
Young Teams with Growth Potential
Detroit Pistons (44-38)
Total players under contract: 10
Projected salary cap space: None (most likely)
Total tradable picks: 4 first-round picks, 13 second-round picks
The Pistons achieved a significant milestone by winning a playoff game for the first time since 2008, and they now stand at a strategic crossroads. If they re-sign unrestricted free agents Tim Hardaway Jr., Malik Beasley, and Dennis Schroder, they`ll likely operate over the luxury tax, looking to improve through the full midlevel exception or trades. The alternative is letting these players depart to create cap space and pursue a free agent, potentially a floor-spacing big to provide more room for All-NBA guard Cade Cunningham. General Manager Trajan Langdon`s initial season successfully established a supportive structure around Cunningham, helping elevate his performance. This focus on building around Cade is expected to guide Detroit`s summer decisions.
Orlando Magic (41-41)
Total players under contract: 14
Projected salary cap space: None
Total tradable picks: 1 first-round pick, 11 second-round picks
After years of relatively quiet offseasons under President Jeff Weltman, Orlando made a dramatic move by sending four first-round picks and a pick swap to Memphis for guard Desmond Bane last week. Bane, a highly effective shooter and creator who isn`t a defensive weakness, appears to be an ideal addition for a Magic team desperately needing offense (they ranked last in 3-point shooting). Bane enhances their offensive capabilities while preserving their defensive identity and fits seamlessly alongside their young core of Jalen Suggs, Paolo Banchero (eligible for a max extension), and Franz Wagner. Such aggressive trades signal a belief in becoming a true NBA Finals contender, a high ambition given Orlando hasn`t won a playoff series since 2010.
San Antonio Spurs (34-48)
Total players under contract: 10
Projected salary cap space: None
Total tradable picks: 3 first-round picks, 15 second-round picks
Having acquired De`Aaron Fox in February and secured the second overall pick in this week`s NBA draft, San Antonio is poised to be a key player in any offseason discussions regarding star movement, aiming to pair talent with rising superstar Victor Wembanyama. The Spurs are optimistic Wembanyama will be fully healthy for the start of the season after his previous campaign was shortened by a deep vein thrombosis diagnosis. Another question for San Antonio is the future of Chris Paul following a productive first season with the team.
Teams with Identity Questions
Dallas Mavericks (39-43)
Total players under contract: 13
Projected salary cap space: None
Total tradable picks: 3 first-round picks, 2 second-round picks
Dallas experienced a tumultuous season, first surprising the league by trading Luka Doncic in February, then doing so again by winning the draft lottery and securing the first pick to select anticipated phenom Cooper Flagg, who is expected to be a franchise cornerstone for the next decade. A key offseason decision involves Kyrie Irving ($42.9 million player option), who is projected to miss most of next season recovering from a torn left ACL. While he`s expected to return, Dallas urgently needs more ballhandling, particularly in his absence.
Memphis Grizzlies (48-34)
Total players under contract: 11
Projected salary cap space: Fluid
Total tradable picks: 7 first-round picks, 6 second-round picks
After a disappointing conclusion to the season, which included firing coach Taylor Jenkins and a playoff sweep by the Thunder, Memphis`s primary focus is securing a contract extension for Jaren Jackson Jr. Jackson is entering the final year of a $23.4 million deal significantly below his market value, requiring the Grizzlies to renegotiate and extend him. This was a key reason for trading Marcus Smart during the season; Memphis remains keen on locking up Jackson long-term. Additionally, the team needs to determine the futures of restricted free agent Santi Aldama and guard Luke Kennard.
Philadelphia 76ers (24-58)
Total players under contract: 9
Projected salary cap space: None
Total tradable picks: 3 first-round picks, 7 second-round picks
Any outlook for Philadelphia heavily depends on Joel Embiid`s health, which remains uncertain. The 76ers hope for a healthy Embiid next season, along with an improved Paul George and the return of rookie standout Jared McCain, who was sidelined since December with a left meniscus injury. Philadelphia had a positive start to their offseason by moving up to third in the lottery, thus retaining their top-six protected draft pick.
Teams Trapped in the Middle
Atlanta Hawks (40-42)
Total players under contract: 11
Projected salary cap space: None
Total tradable picks: 3 first-round picks, 6 second-round picks
Following the dismissal of GM Landry Fields in April and the promotion of Onsi Saleh to lead basketball operations, the initial question for owner Tony Ressler and the Hawks is whether a President of Basketball Operations will be hired above Saleh, although Ressler has emphasized Saleh`s significant future role. A crucial offseason hinges on the decision regarding franchise cornerstone Trae Young. With one year remaining on his contract before a player option for 2026-27, will Atlanta commit to him long-term or consider moving him? A fascinating extension discussion also awaits Most Improved Player Dyson Daniels, acquired in the Dejounte Murray trade. Decisions are also needed for unrestricted free agents Caris LeVert and Larry Nance Jr.
Chicago Bulls (39-43)
Total players under contract: 12
Projected salary cap space: None
Total tradable picks: 5 first-round picks, 5 second-round picks
Arguably the team most constrained by their current situation, the Bulls enter the summer with much of their roster under contract but facing critical decisions. Chief among these is restricted free agent Josh Giddey, who was acquired for Alex Caruso and anticipates a substantial new contract – the question is whether the Bulls will match offers. Coby White`s performance has exceeded his current $12.9 million contract to the point where an extension seems improbable, potentially making him a trade asset. While the Bulls have minimal salary commitments for the 2026-27 season, extending Giddey would quickly alter that landscape.
Miami Heat (37-45)
Total players under contract: 12
Projected salary cap space: None
Total tradable picks: 2 first-round picks, 1 second-round pick
With the Jimmy Butler situation resolved, the Heat are looking to reclaim their position as a top Eastern Conference team after spending time in the play-in tournament picture. Rookie Kel`el Ware had a promising season, joining Tyler Herro and Bam Adebayo as young foundational pieces. However, the path to significant improvement is unclear. A decision is needed on Duncan Robinson, whose $19.8 million expiring contract has $9.8 million guaranteed until early July. Miami also has the option to preserve substantial cap space for the summer of 2026, which is expected to feature a more active free agent class.
New Orleans Pelicans (21-61)
Total players under contract: 13
Projected salary cap space: None
Total tradable picks: 5 first-round picks, 4 second-round picks
Newly appointed lead executive Joe Dumars faces significant tasks this summer. The Pelicans are likely to be without Dejounte Murray for the entirety of next season due to a torn right Achilles tendon, suggesting the team will again find itself deep in the draft lottery. With Zion Williamson representing the team at this year`s lottery, questions arise about his long-term future in New Orleans; he has three years remaining on his contract. The Pelicans must decide whether to continue building around this young core (Williamson, Murray, Trey Murphy III, Herbert Jones) or pivot towards a different strategy.
Phoenix Suns (36-46)
Total players under contract: 11
Projected salary cap space: None
Total tradable picks: 2 first-round picks, 7 second-round picks
The initial move of the Suns` new leadership (led by executive Brian Gregory and coach Jordan Ott) was trading Kevin Durant to the Rockets just before Game 7 of the NBA Finals. While Houston received Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, and the 10th overall pick, the trade isn`t official until July 6. By then, the Suns roster is anticipated to change significantly. Devin Booker is set to receive a substantial two-year extension next month, and sources indicate the Suns plan to aggressively reshape the team around him to return to playoff contention. This task is challenging, as the skill sets of Green, Booker, and Bradley Beal (who retains his no-trade clause) overlap, and the Suns have limited options for improvement while maintaining a high payroll.
Sacramento Kings (40-42)
Total players under contract: 10
Projected salary cap space: None
Total tradable picks: 6 first-round picks, 3 second-round picks
New lead executive Scott Perry inherits a Kings roster lacking balance. Players like Zach LaVine, DeMar DeRozan, and Malik Monk possess overlapping skill sets, and the De`Aaron Fox trade left the team without a clear point guard option. Perry faces an interesting decision regarding Keon Ellis ($2.3 million team option), who has developed into a valuable 3-and-D guard – a skillset much needed on a defense-deficient roster. The Fox trade seemed to be the first step in a larger plan; Perry is now tasked with executing the second step.
Toronto Raptors (30-52)
Total players under contract: 13
Projected salary cap space: None
Total tradable picks: 4 first-round picks, 6 second-round picks
President of Basketball Operations Masai Ujiri stated the Raptors would not remain in a perpetual rebuild, and the team has adhered to that vision, rapidly restructuring the roster over the past 18 months. Now, they are nearing the luxury tax threshold and face intriguing decisions this summer, particularly after acquiring Brandon Ingram and signing him to an extension in February. Due to Ingram`s left ankle sprain, which ended his season, the team never had the chance to see this newly formed group play together after the trade.
Rebuilding Teams with Promising Talent
Charlotte Hornets (19-63)
Total players under contract: 12
Projected salary cap space: None
Total tradable picks: 7 first-round picks, 11 second-round picks
The Hornets had hoped to move up in the draft lottery to select Cooper Flagg or Dylan Harper but instead landed at seventh. Following the complex situation involving Mark Williams` trade to Los Angeles (which ultimately didn`t happen), his extension negotiations become particularly interesting. As long as the franchise remains near the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings, questions about Charlotte`s long-term strategy and its implications for star guard LaMelo Ball will persist. Veterans Miles Bridges ($25M this year, $22.8M next) and Jusuf Nurkic ($19.3M expiring) could also be potential trade assets. A decision is also required on restricted free agent Tre Mann, who missed most of the season with a back injury.
Portland Trail Blazers (36-46)
Total players under contract: 13
Projected salary cap space: None
Total tradable picks: 3 first-round picks, 5 second-round picks
Portland is currently navigating several significant developments. The team is listed for sale, and following a strong finish to the season, both General Manager Joe Cronin and coach Chauncey Billups received extensions. The key question is the team`s direction moving forward. Anfernee Simons is on an expiring contract; will he be extended or potentially traded? What about Deandre Ayton, whose $35 million expiring deal may hinder the opportunity for last year`s seventh pick, Donovan Clingan, to become the full-time starting center?
Teams at the Start of a Rebuild
Brooklyn Nets (26-56)
Total players under contract: 10
Projected salary cap space: $40-60 million
Total tradable picks: 9 first-round picks, 15 second-round picks
Like several other teams, the Nets were disappointed in the lottery, dropping two spots to eighth. They enter the summer with the most projected cap space ($40-60 million) but a limited pool of high-value free agents to target. While they have numerous draft picks, allowing the team to struggle for another season to utilize the first-round pick reacquired from Houston (in the Mikal Bridges trade) might be the most strategic approach. Brooklyn could use its cap space to accelerate the rebuild, acquire more assets by taking on undesirable contracts, or a combination of these strategies. Moving veterans like Nic Claxton and Cameron Johnson is also a possibility.
Utah Jazz (17-65)
Total players under contract: 14
Projected salary cap space: None
Total tradable picks: 7 first-round picks, 7 second-round picks
With coach Will Hardy signed long-term and Austin Ainge hired as President of Basketball Operations, Utah`s leadership is secured. The challenging phase now begins: constructing a roster capable of competing in the demanding Western Conference. The initial step involves deciding the future of Lauri Markkanen. Following last year`s unsuccessful attempt to tank for Cooper Flagg, could Markkanen be traded to acquire additional assets and align the team more closely with its young players, including the fifth overall pick in this year`s draft? Veterans John Collins, Collin Sexton, and Jordan Clarkson, with combined expiring contracts totaling $60 million, offer various avenues for roster manipulation.
Washington Wizards (18-64)
Total players under contract: 13
Projected salary cap space: None
Total tradable picks: 6 first-round picks, 14 second-round picks
Another team that didn`t benefit from the lottery, the Wizards can nonetheless highlight the valuable experience gained by young players such as Bilal Coulibaly, Alex Sarr, Bub Carrington, and Kyshawn George during a season spent at the bottom of the league standings. Don`t anticipate a drastically different approach next season; the young core will continue to see significant playing time, veterans like Marcus Smart ($21 million expiring contract) could be traded for assets, and the Wizards are likely to remain contenders for one of the league`s worst records.