The Los Angeles Lakers are the 2020 NBA champs, blitzing through the bubble playoffs with a 16-5 record and rounding off the Miami Heat in 6 video games in the NBA Finals
Now what?
As the league gets in an offseason of more unpredictability, were taking a way-too-early take a look at where all 30 teams stand heading into the 2020-21 season.
Note: These rankings are based on which groups voters (a group of more than 40 insiders, editors and press reporters) believe belong higher heading into next season, considering potential gamer motion and the draft. Title chances for 2021 were provided by Caesars Sportsbook by William Hill.
MORE: LeBron and the Lakers combated heartbreak to win the Finals.
1. Los Angeles Lakers2019-20 record: 52-19Result: NBA champions2021 title odds: +325
LeBron James and Anthony Davis have provided the franchises 17th championship banner to the rafters. Now GM Rob Pelinka will want to keep a championship-contending lineup around James. Top priority is Davis, who can choose out and get a raise. Markieff Morris, Jared Dudley, Dwight Howard and Dion Waiters are free representatives. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Avery Bradley, JaVale McGee and Rajon Rondo all have gamer alternatives for 2020-21. Pelinka has the $9.3 million midlevel and $3.6 million biannual exceptions to use. The rest of the West will only get better, however the Lakers will defend their title with the best superstar tandem, a 2nd year with head coach Frank Vogel and ideally no bubble to contend with next season.– Ohm Youngmisuk
2. LA Clippers2019-20 record: 49-23Result: L, West semifinals2021 title chances: +400
Doc Rivers took over in Philly, and the Clippers are browsing for a new head coach, with Ty Lue and Jeff Van Gundy among the prospects. Lou Williams has an ending agreement, however the Clippers do not have any first-round picks to hang. The next coaching personnel will have to get the finest out of this championship-caliber roster, which needs a playmaking point guard and leader.
3. Milwaukee Bucks2019-20 record: 56-17Result: L, East semifinals2021 title chances: +600
After the Bucks finished with the very best record in the routine season for the 2nd straight season however failed to reach the Finals, the biggest question is whats next for Giannis Antetokounmpo. The ruling MVP and Defensive Player of the Year has a huge choice to make– and so do the Bucks, as theyre anticipated to provide him a supermax extension. If they do sign him to the extension, modifications will also require to be made to the lineup to guarantee more playoff success.– Eric Woodyard
4. Denver Nuggets2019-20 record: 46-27Result: L, West finals2021 title odds: +2000
After making history by authoring 2 comebacks from 3-1 series deficits on their method to the conference finals, the Nuggets next action is to win the West. Michael Porter Jr. seems poised to be a third star next season. Jerami Grant, Mason Plumlee, Paul Millsap and Torrey Craig are totally free agents, with Grant a significant concern.
5. Dallas Mavericks2019-20 record: 43-32Result: L, first round2021 title chances: +2500
Luka Doncics introduction as an MVP prospect provides the Mavericks legitimate hopes of being a champion competitor earlier than prepared for, although they need co-star Kristaps Porzingis to remain healthy. All indications indicate that the Mavs will not make a significant offseason splash till 2021, when Dallas can develop a max slot for a complimentary agent with a little salary-cap tinkering. Anticipate the Mavs, nevertheless, to hunt for some veteran durability. Its clear that an upgraded defense (ranked 18th this season) is required to match Dallas historically efficient offense.– Tim MacMahon
6. Golden State Warriors2019-20 record: 15-50Result: Missed playoffs2021 title chances: +800
How does the talent and management void left by Andre Iguodala and Shaun Livingston get filled? What will they do with the No. 2 general pick? The Warriors still have top-level skill, however they need to fill a lot of spaces before title talk resumes.
7. Boston Celtics2019-20 record: 48-24Result: L, East finals2021 title chances: +1400
Boston reached the Eastern Conference finals for the 3rd time in 4 years but stopped working to make it back to the NBA Finals after losing to the Miami Heat in six video games. While most of the team is under agreement for next season, the most significant uncertainty is whether Gordon Hayward will decide in to his $34.1 million player choice for 2020-21. Otherwise, Boston gets in the offseason with 3 first-round picks with which to work.
8. Philadelphia 76ers2019-20 record: 43-30Result: L, very first round2021 title odds: +3000
After replacing Brett Brown with Doc Rivers, the 76ers want to finally make the deep playoff run that has eluded them with Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons. Basic supervisor Elton Brand has a big choice to make this offseason after healthy problems pestered the Sixers this season. Particularly, can he find a taker for Al Horford, who didnt fit next to Embiid like Philadelphia had hoped he would? Horford showed he can still play center when Embiid was not on the court. Another huge question the Sixers will have to answer: Will Simmons stay a full-time power forward? And, if so, who will be the teams beginning point guard next season, Shake Milton or someone who isnt on the roster yet?– Bontemps
9. Miami Heat2019-20 record: 44-29Result: L, NBA Finals2021 title chances: +1400
The greatest concern surrounding the Heat is whether they can replicate the success they had in the bubble in a regular basketball world. Miamis future appears to be very bright with Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo leading a young core, but will they have the ability to encourage another star to join them in South Beach? If they do, theres no factor to believe the Heat cant make another Finals run next season.– Friedell
10. Brooklyn Nets2019-20 record: 35-37Result: L, first round2021 title odds: +1000
2019-20 was the aperitif and 2020-21 appearances like the primary course if the Nets were a stylish Brooklyn dining establishment. Having missed out on all of this season following his Achilles rupture in the 2019 NBA Finals, Kevin Durant should be all set to go for training camp. So should the other gamers, including Kyrie Irving, who sat out the Nets playoff sweep at the hands of Toronto. Brooklyn does need to re-sign beginning wing Joe Harris and think about possible trades to better enhance Durant and Irving, but the sky is the limit for a gifted group under rookie coach Steve Nash.– Kevin Pelton
11. Toronto Raptors2019-20 record: 53-19Result: L, East semifinals2021 title chances: +2000
In the meantime, the Raptors have 3 key players– guard Fred VanVleet and huge males Serge Ibaka and Marc Gasol– who will be unrestricted complimentary representatives. VanVleet is one of the best gamers on the market and could be in for a big payday this offseason. Coach Nick Nurse just recently signed an agreement extension, and basic supervisor Bobby Webster is anticipated to sign his own at some point soon.
12. Houston Rockets2019-20 record: 44-28Result: L, West semifinals2021 title chances: +2500
General supervisor Daryl Morey requires to work with a new head coach after Mike DAntoni chose not to wait and see whether he d be invited back to Houston following the expiration of his agreement and Houstons second-round playoff exit. That may be the only major offseason change for the Rockets, as there isnt much versatility given their costly roster. One huge question: Will indispensable 35-year-old small-ball center P.J. Tucker get the agreement extension he seeks?– MacMahon
13. Utah Jazz2019-20 record: 44-28Result: L, first round2021 title chances: +4000
Utahs front workplace never ever fluctuated on its long-lasting strategy to develop around Donovan Mitchell and Rudy Gobert, in spite of friction in their relationship that was worsened by their COVID-19 medical diagnoses. That confidence was validated by the chemistry and professionalism the duo showed in the bubble. Its a simple decision to sign Mitchell to a max extension as he gets in the last season of his novice deal. Extension conversations with Gobert, who is eligible for the supermax, probably will be far more complex. Limited in ways to update the cast around their franchise foundations, allure cant pay for to miss out on with their midlevel exception.– MacMahon
14. Portland Trail Blazers2019-20 record: 35-39Result: L, very first round2021 title odds: +3000
They dealt with key departures from a group that went to the Western Conference finals, as well as a rash of injuries that put them in a hole to climb out of simply to make the playoffs. Their bubble run was awakening but ultimately capped a disappointing season. The roster is largely under contract (Hassan Whiteside and Carmelo Anthony are the big offseason questions), but the Blazers will require to make modifications if theyre to increase back to the upper tier of the West.
15. Oklahoma City Thunder2019-20 record: 44-28Result: L, first round2021 title odds: +5000
The Thunder were one of the leagues surprise success stories last season, given the expectation was that the roster was going to be offered off for parts to the greatest bidder as the franchise started an unavoidable rebuild. And with essentially the whole roster back next season– other than Danilo Gallinari, who is an unrestricted free representative– the Thunder will get in the 2020-21 season in quite much the very same scenario.
16. Indiana Pacers2019-20 record: 45-28Result: L, first round2021 title odds: +10000
After a 3rd first-round sweep in 4 years, Indiana selected to carry on from coach Nate McMillan. This season, Indiana never got a possibility to see what its full roster would appear like healthy. Whomever is tapped to change McMillan will have to figure out how to get the Pacers to level up as the top of the Eastern Conference rapidly becomes competitive. President of basketball operations Kevin Pritchard and the front workplace likewise need to determine what to do with Victor Oladipo, who is getting in the final year of his contract and might leave as an unrestricted free representative in 2021 if he isnt signed to an agreement extension this offseason.– Bontemps
17. New Orleans Pelicans2019-20 record: 30-42Result: Missed playoffs2021 title odds: +5000
The first order of business for the Pelicans will be to figure out who their next head coach will be. Once thats taken care of, the Pelicans can begin to see how the 2020-21 season will look. New Orleans likewise has big choices to make on Jrue Holiday (qualified for an extension or a possible trade prospect) as well as Lonzo Ball and Josh Hart (rookie extension eligible).
18. Memphis Grizzlies2019-20 record: 34-39Result: L, West play-in2021 title odds: +10000
The Grizzlies basically punted on totally free firm this offseason when they finished the Justise Winslow deal– taking back two bad contracts from Miami in the trade– and agreed to a three-year, $35 million extension with Dillon Brooks. Memphis has its young foundation in location with Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr. serving as the pillars, and the Grizzlies proved this season that they can be competitive during the developmental process.
19. Phoenix Suns2019-20 record: 34-39Result: Missed playoffs2021 title chances: +6000
The Suns made sounds with their 8-0 run throughout their short time inside the bubble and need to be feeling as excellent as they have in a very long time entering the offseason. Monty Williams has the Suns trending in the best instructions. Phoenix will continue to construct around Devin Booker, who scored 30 or more points in five of their eight bubble video games. Deandre Ayton can be a force and has room to improve. Mikal Bridges and Cameron Johnson reveal promise. The Suns have to find out what to do with Dario Saric, Aron Baynes, Frank Kaminsky and Kelly Oubre Jr., however the future is looking intense in Phoenix.– Youngmisuk
20. Orlando Magic2019-20 record: 33-40Result: L, very first round2021 title chances: +20000
The Magic remain in perhaps the worst place an expert franchise can be in heading into next season– the middle. Aside from the roster questions, the Magics most significant problem is that they have not filled the superstar void theyve had because Dwight Howard left.
21. Washington Wizards2019-20 record: 25-47Result: Missed playoffs2021 title chances: +10000
Wall returns to a Wizards team that was proficient without him offensively however had the leagues worst defensive ranking when the season stopped. Washington is looking to establish young skill like 2019 lottery choice Rui Hachimura, the Wizards will also intend to contend with Wall and Bradley Beal together in the backcourt. That means re-signing complimentary agent Davis Bertans and adding a defense-minded.
22. San Antonio Spurs2019-20 record: 32-39Result: Missed playoffs2021 title chances: +20000
For the very first time considering that 1997, the Spurs saw the playoffs from home. Of course, their fortunes altered in the 1997-98 season as they prepared Hall of Famer Tim Duncan. Its not likely the Spurs will get that sort of talent this year with the No. 11 choice.
23. Sacramento Kings2019-20 record: 31-41Result: Missed playoffs2021 title chances: +20000
Sacramento disappointed in the bubble while stopping working to make the playoffs for the 14th straight season. Buddy Hield, who didnt appear thrilled with his 6th male role last season, gets in next season with a huge contract extension. Luke Walton, entering his 2nd season, will be joined by brand-new associate head coach Alvin Gentry.
24. Atlanta Hawks2019-20 record: 20-47Result: Missed playoffs2021 title odds: +10000
There were flashes of promise for the young Hawks, but lack of experience, immaturity and problems thwarted them early and they never ever found any momentum. John Collins 25-game suspension stopped a promising start, and their protective issues were popular throughout. With another lottery choice, cap space and an attractive group in place, the Hawks appear prepared to rise.– Young
25. Minnesota Timberwolves2019-20 record: 19-45Result: Missed playoffs2021 title odds: +20000
Now the pressure is on the Timberwolves to make strides next season, when they will owe their first-round choice to the Warriors (with top-three protection) as part of the Russell trade. After making the choice, Minnesota must re-sign limited complimentary representatives Malik Beasley and Juan Hernangomez (who started after being acquired from Denver) and patch together a proficient defense to complement what must be a powerful offending attack.
26. Chicago Bulls2019-20 record: 22-43Result: Missed playoffs2021 title odds: +10000
The Chicago Bulls failed to reach the postseason for the 3rd successive season. The company cleaned home with a new front workplace, led by executive vice president Arturas Karnisovas, and new head coach Billy Donovan. Chicago has the No. 4 pick in the draft to contribute to its young core of Lauri Markkanen, Wendell Carter Jr., Coby White and Zach LaVine. Now, they will need to remain healthy to see how the pieces blend together.– Woodyard
27. Charlotte Hornets2019-20 record: 23-42Result: Missed playoffs2021 title chances: +40000
After losing Kemba Walker, the Hornets managed to spend time the fringes of the East playoff race thanks to second-year point guard Devonte Grahams development into a quality starter. The NBAs fourth-worst point differential (minus-6.8 per video game), however, demonstrates how much space there is for improvement. That started with lotto luck, as Charlotte landed the No. 3 pick. To compete for a playoff spot, the Hornets will need more internal advancement from current lottery picks Miles Bridges and Malik Monk and to make efficient use of a forecasted $19 million in cap space to update at center.– Pelton
28. Detroit Pistons2019-20 record: 20-46Result: Missed playoffs2021 title chances: +30000
Motown fans were disappointed after another dull season throughout which the Pistons completed 20-46. The Pistons kicked off the offseason by generating new general manager Troy Weaver, who is widely appreciated for his ability to assess talent dating to his 12 seasons in Oklahoma City. Veterans Blake Griffin and Derrick Rose were key pieces on last seasons lineup, but injuries continued to afflict them. Weaver will have a lot of deal with his hands to restore the organization– operating in his favor is enormous cap space in addition to the No. 7 general pick in the NBA draft.– Woodyard
29. Cleveland Cavaliers2019-20 record: 19-46Result: Missed playoffs2021 title odds: +30000
The post-LeBron James age hasnt been kind to Cleveland, as the Cavaliers have actually posted back-to-back 19-win seasons. A crucial question for head coach J.B. Bickerstaff: How will Cleveland use guards Collin Sexton and Darius Garland going forward? The Cavs likewise have big men with All-Star experience in Andre Drummond and Kevin Love, but they have huge decisions to make in regard to Loves future– he is owed over $80 million over the next three seasons– and whether Drummond is a strong long-term fit.– Woodyard
30. New York Knicks2019-20 record: 21-45Result: Missed playoffs2021 title chances: +30000
Another season, another brand-new instructions for the Knicks. Now New York needs to build a better-fitting roster than the one that ended up 21-45 last season. The very first order, whether in free company, trade or with the No. 8 pick, is to put more shooting and playmaking around RJ Barrett, last years No. 3 overall choice.
The rest of the West will only get better, however the Lakers will protect their title with the best superstar tandem, a second year with head coach Frank Vogel and hopefully no bubble to compete with next season. After the Bucks ended up with the finest record in the routine season for the second straight season however stopped working to reach the Finals, the biggest concern is whats next for Giannis Antetokounmpo. And with essentially the whole lineup back next season– other than Danilo Gallinari, who is an unrestricted totally free agent– the Thunder will get in the 2020-21 season in pretty much the very same circumstance. Friend Hield, who didnt appear thrilled with his sixth male function last season, enters next season with a huge contract extension. Now the pressure is on the Timberwolves to make strides next season, when they will owe their first-round pick to the Warriors (with top-three defense) as part of the Russell trade.
