NBA predictions indicate that the Oklahoma City Thunder may continue their reign in the Western Conference during the 2024-25 season. With the season starting on Tuesday, FOX Sports’ NBA analysts are finalizing their forecasts ahead of the tip-off.
Last season, the Thunder secured the top seed in the Western Conference, showcasing their young talent and signaling they might be ahead of schedule in their development. The question now is whether they can replicate that success or if another team is poised to rise and challenge their dominance.
Experts weigh in on the situation:
Yaron Weitzman: Mike Budenholzer has a proven track record, coaching 801 regular season games and winning 484, which translates to a winning percentage of just over 60%. While his playoff performance may raise eyebrows, it’s important to remember he clinched a championship with the Milwaukee Bucks. With the talent on the Phoenix Suns, Budenholzer’s coaching could lead them to a top-four finish in the West.
Melissa Rohlin: The Los Angeles Lakers are my pick. The atmosphere around the team has shifted this year. Last season, frustrations with Darvin Ham’s lineup changes created a rift in trust and communication. However, this preseason has brought a renewed sense of purpose, with players praising JJ Redick’s preparedness. His coaching style resonates with the team, and excitement is palpable as they look forward to working with him.
2. Three Western Conference powerhouses lost key players in free agency: the Clippers (Paul George), the Warriors (Klay Thompson), and the Nuggets (Kentavious Caldwell-Pope). How do these losses affect their competitiveness?
Weitzman: The Nuggets had a disappointing offseason, particularly with their ownership’s reluctance to invest. Losing KCP will impact them, but with Nikola Jokic still on the roster, they remain contenders.
The Clippers, in my view, are on the fringes of playoff contention. Their hopes hinge on Kawhi Leonard’s health and James Harden’s ability to lead an offense—two uncertain factors.
Rohlin: I rank the Nuggets first, the Warriors second, and the Clippers third. KCP was integral to the Nuggets’ championship run as a defensive stalwart and reliable shooter. However, with core players like Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray still in place, they should manage well. The Warriors’ loss of Thompson was surprising but expected, as he has struggled since his injuries. The Clippers, without George, face a tough road ahead.
3. The Thunder, after finishing as the No. 1 seed last season, have added Alex Caruso and Isaiah Hartenstein to their roster. Do these additions make them favorites to win the West?
Weitzman: Absolutely. The Thunder are well-equipped for a championship run, featuring an MVP candidate in Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and other talented playmakers like Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren. They boast versatility in their lineup, capable of playing both big and small, with strong shooting and defense. The only gap is playoff experience, which they will gain this season.
Rohlin: They are contenders for the top spot. Caruso is often overlooked, while Hartenstein adds significant depth. Coupled with the explosive talent of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, this team is set to make strides forward, blending offensive and defensive strengths.
4. The Mavericks have improved their perimeter shooting by signing Klay Thompson to a three-year, $50 million contract. Will this investment pay off?
Weitzman: Klay Thompson enhances the Mavericks’ offensive arsenal, complementing Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving with his off-ball movement. However, defensive concerns arise with this trio on the floor together. Will Klay’s past issues with crunch-time performances resurface?
Rohlin: I believe this is a solid fit. Klay’s shooting ability is crucial for the Mavericks, especially when defenses collapse on their star players. His championship experience can also guide Luka. However, the Mavericks’ defense remains a concern, and it will be interesting to see if their offensive firepower can lead them deep into the playoffs.
5. The Timberwolves begin the season without star big man Karl-Anthony Towns. Can they maintain last season’s success with Julius Randle stepping in for KAT?
Rohlin: Losing Karl-Anthony Towns is a significant adjustment for the Timberwolves, but they still have a robust roster. Randle and DiVincenzo are valuable additions, and this shift allows the team to invest in young talents like Anthony Edwards and Jaden McDaniels.
6. Predicting the Western Conference standings, from 1 to 15:
Weitzman:
- Thunder
- Timberwolves
- Suns
- Nuggets
- Mavericks
- Grizzlies
- Kings
- Lakers
- Rockets
- Pelicans
- Warriors
- Clippers
- Spurs
- Jazz
- Trail Blazers
Rohlin:
- Timberwolves
- Thunder
- Mavericks
- Nuggets
- Suns
- Kings
- Lakers
- Grizzlies
- Pelicans
- Warriors
- Clippers
- Spurs
- Jazz
- Trail Blazers
- Rockets
