With the NBA season being a little over a month away (Thank God), it is time for a Right Hook Ray NBA preseason preview. This will combine one question for every team, every team’s x-factor, and one word for every team going into this season. Do not worry; my preseason top 40 is coming along with my preseason predictions for awards and the finals match-up. So, we start alphabetically sending us to the beautiful city of Atlanta.

Atlanta Hawks

Is this the last year of the Ice Trae Era?

The only question concerning the Hawks is simple: Trae Young and his future with this team. Young’s time in Atlanta has had mixed reactions, but if this season is not a sign of things turning in the right direction, then it may be the end of Trae Young’s time in the ATL, which would raise another big question of “What is next?” I still hope Trae and Quin Snyder figure something out this season.

The X-Factor: Dyson Daniels

Dyson Daniels could easily be the biggest surprise and help this team get into the playoff picture or be a disappointing piece. I am a fan of his size, versatility, and potential, which could be appropriately unleashed on the Hawks compared to his time on a very congested Pelicans roster. He may not be Dejounte Murray, but he may be a better fit in the sidekick spot with Trae Young, which could be dangerous if it comes together quickly.

One word for the Hawks- Lolling

Lolling is the best word for this Hawks team going into this season. How the season unfolds will undoubtedly decide the front office’s direction. This team has much promise with Jalen Johnson, Dyson Daniels, Onyeka Okongwu, and rookie Zaccharie Risacher, which lends the belief that there is a solid foundation here. Still, this season is going to be a wait-and-see for the Hawks.

Boston Celtics

Will the summer of “Disrespect” hurt the champions?

The defending champions had a less fun summer compared to other championship teams. Jaylen Brown’s being left off of Team USA while other fellow Celtics made it certainly was something to look at, and Jayson Tatum’s lack of playing time in the Olympics opened the door for the famed Celtics J’s feeling disrespected.

Usually, this tends to become a motivational chip on their shoulders to prove everyone wrong, but I cannot ignore the feeling that this is the thing that starts the breakup of that duo and this team’s foundation. Add to it the fact that the supporting cast is older and injured, which could mean Boston does not defend their title, but I expect them to be the team to beat in the East.

The X-Factor: Jaylen Brown

Jaylen Brown will be the player who decides if Boston goes back-to-back or not. However, individually, I believe he will only ascend this year to breaking into that fabled top-ten player debate and… becoming the face of the Celtics over Jayson Tatum. Brown in the playoffs proved possible, but this upcoming season will confirm if this is authentic or a flash-in-the-pan situation.

One word for the Celtics- Secure

That said, the Boston Celtics should feel secure starting the new season. Yes, the timetable with Porzingis’s injury is alarming. The Celtics will be fine and quickly top the Eastern Conference. Hopefully, they manage the regular season, remain in the top four, and have a fully healthy team once the playoffs come. I expect them to make at least the conference finals, being the team to beat.

Brooklyn Nets

Who can make the Nets watchable?

The Nets are one of many teams in the league that are a directionless mess. But who will be worth buying a ticket to see for the borough of Brooklyn this season? With Mikal Bridges going to Manhattan to join his Villanova bros, it certainly leaves much to be desired for fans. Cam Thomas, Johnson, Dennis Schroder, and Ben Simmons are the best options. They do not give much excitement, but they could be something compared to nothing.

The X-Factor: Noah Clowney

I went back and forth on this one between Ben Simmons, Zaire Williams, and Noah Clowney as the X-factor for this team. While I still hold some sliver of hope for Ben Simmons to turn it around and Zaire Williams is new, I decided to go with Clowney, who can be a difference maker this season on a team that is loaded with role players, could be the best opportunity for Clowney to break out and do more on the court.

One word for the Nets- Discerning

The best word I could muster for these Brooklyn Nets this season was discerning, especially after five years of them signing Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving away from the Knicks. It was supposed to be the start of a new era of basketball in New York, and now neither star is there and has nothing to show for it except embarrassment and an apparent disconnect with Governor Joe Tsai. This roster should leave Brooklynites and Nets fans concerned about the future. Perhaps they should not have moved from New Jersey after all.

Charlotte Hornets

Can LaMelo Ball make it half the season?

Charlotte’s most significant question should involve their star guard, LaMelo Ball. Can he play at least half the regular season? Ball has missed considerable time over the past couple of seasons, leading to some disappointing seasons for the team, but hopefully, he will return and can be the driving force on a young and promising team.

The X-Factor: Tidjane Salaun

Rookie Tidjane Salaun will be pivotal to the Hornets’ success this season. The French rookie’s approach to the game should change the culture in the Queen City, hopefully turning around this team’s expectations.

One word for the Hornets- Curious

The best word to describe this upcoming season for the Hornets would be curious. This team can be a surprise in the play-in scenario or have another disastrous season. Charlotte could be more interested in seeing if this is still LaMelo Ball’s team or if it becomes Brandon Miller’s team from here on out.

Chicago Bulls

How fast can this team move on from LaVine & Vucevic?

The Bulls hope to figure out how to move on from Zach LaVine and Nikola Vucevic, giving this young core a chance to grow and turn the page on this embarrassing chapter in Bulls history. Trading is the only option, of course, but the market for both players is very dire, which could mean attaching draft picks they need to rebuild with LaVine and Vucevic to get something halfway valuable in return.

The X-Factor: Josh Giddey

The player that will be the Bulls x-factor is polarizing, but it is Josh Giddey. Unfortunately, his time in Oklahoma City did not pan out as many expected, so being traded to Chicago should be a clean slate for him. Taking the uncertainty with the off-court issues out, Giddey should have opportunities to be a point-forward facilitator who can be a spark for Chicago’s offense, along with Colby White, making the Bulls a halfway fun watch this season.

One word for the Bulls- Cop-Out

The Bulls’ cop-out era must end this season! The front office must decide on a youth rebuild with White, Giddey, and their rookies or stick with mediocre disappointment built around LaVine and Vucevic, using the salary cap/luxury tax as the cop-out excuse. Chicago deserves a better basketball product to root for and have hope in, not this disorganized, cheap mess they currently have.

Cleveland Cavaliers

Can the Cavs bring it all together?

Will this be the year the Cavs finally get it right and have a deep playoff run? We shall see this season and decide if the core of Mitchell, Garland, Mobley, and Allen needs to be dismantled. This may happen if they choose to move Darius Garland, who wants to be on a different team, but the rest of this roster needs to perform for Cleveland to be at the top of the Eastern Conference again this season or start over again.

The X-Factor: Evan Mobley

Evan Mobley is the deciding factor in whether the Cavs will finally break through or fall short again. Mobley also needs this to be a breakout season to dodge potential chatter about being a bust or not as advertised; playing as a stretch big, his shooting and floor spacing must improve so Cleveland can take the necessary leap.

One word for the Cavaliers- Close

Close is the only word that applies to this Cavaliers team; on paper, they should be very close to making it to the conference finals at minimum, but if another season ends with a disappointing exit in the playoffs, then this team will be closer to reshuffling this team instead of the NBA finals.

Dallas Mavericks

Can Klay Thompson help Dallas go back to the NBA finals?

Regarding the defending Western Conference champion Dallas Mavericks, the considerable question should be about their newest addition, Klay Thompson. Thompson was forced out of the Bay Area (we all know that was the case) and written off as washed up. He landed in Dallas, where the Mavericks hope he has a bounce-back/revenge season, proving he still can be a part of a contending team.

While I have not been a fan of Klay Thompson, I hope he bounces back and helps the Mavs at least make it back to the conference finals, providing the much-needed spacing that Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving are looking for.

The X-Factor: Klay Thompson

Well, Klay Thompson is the X-factor for this team. While we shouldn’t expect Thompson to be what he was on defense, he can potentially return to some form of his peak being on the floor with Doncic and Irving, who are entirely different from his former splash brother Stephen Curry but should be able to be a deadly catch & shoot option that can steal a couple of wins for Dallas this season.

One word for the Mavericks- Sharpened

The Mavs should be a little sharper coming into this season. Thompson’s presence, knowledge, and experience on this team should benefit the role players. Sharpened focus and approach hopefully mean the Mavericks can return to the finals if the team stays healthy and progresses.

Detroit Pistons

Is help coming for Cade Cunningham?

The Detroit Pistons are incredibly frustrating because of the amount of talent on this team, which should be in the playoffs by now. Cade Cunningham has been solid when healthy and on the floor, but where is the help or support? Is the help already there with Jaden Ivey, Ausur Thompson, and Jalen Duren? Or is it arriving with rookie Ron Holland? Or does a significant trade have to happen to get that piece or pieces? Hopefully, we will get some clarity this season before wasting another valuable season of Cunningham’s potential.

The X-Factor: Tim Hardaway Jr

The Pistons are crowded or overloaded at the shooting guard and small forward positions, making playtime quite the exercise this season. Hopefully, my X-factor for this team will play and be a difference in Tim Hardaway Jr. Hardaway Jr has been a liability in recent seasons to the Mavericks, but perhaps going to a rebuilding team like the Pistons may be the remedy both sides need with Hardaway Jr playing a reasonable amount of time while mentoring the younger wings in Thompson, Holland, and Ivey would be a difference maker for Detroit.

One word for the Pistons- Renewed

Detroit is constantly rebuilding, but my word for this team is renewed. This should be the season where some renewed faith or hope is put back into this team with a renewed take on the roster, even with the crowded wing players situation. A midseason trade to attempt to balance this team out would be a step in the right direction as long as the front office does not continue doing such incompetent things to hurt them.

Denver Nuggets

Who is stepping up to keep Denver on top in the Western Conference?

Depth is the glaring issue with the Denver Nuggets this season, which leads to my question of who will step up to keep this team in contention in the West. Christian Braun, Peyton Watson, Aaron Gordon, and Michael Porter Jr. should be at the top of the list, but it is someone else we do not expect or believe is possible.

The X-Factor: Russell Westbrook

My choice for Denver’s X-factor was complicated because it easily could have been Aaron Gordon. He is grieving the tragic death of his brother, while Michael Porter Jr. is dealing with one of his brothers, looking for a significant prison sentence. His other brother, who is banned from the NBA for life from online gambling, certainly should worry about the Nuggets. But I went with the “safe” option with Russell Westbrook.

Westbrook is undoubtedly far from safe, but there is a scenario where Westbrook helps and balances this depth situation out. Still, I doubt it is possible because Westbrook is a big part of this team’s offense. Yes, Russell Westbrook is the best insurance policy in case Jamal Murray breaks down again and has to be the sixth man on this team. Still, that dynamic can quickly go sideways, leading to a dark scenario in the mile-high city.

One word for the Nuggets- Thin

When it comes to this Nuggets team, the only word that is appropriate for them is thin. This roster has only gotten thinner, with Kentavious Caldwell-Pope leaving for Orlando, making this already thin roster worse. If this season is disappointing again, then there will be some conversations in their front office about what has to be done, so hopefully, Denver survives the potential war of attrition this upcoming season.

Golden State Warriors

Will Steve Kerr finally trust Jonathan Kuminga?

We finally get to one of the few polarizing teams/circumstances in the NBA with the Golden State Warriors. The past few seasons have not been as joyful and exciting as seasons past but have been more chaotic, dramatic, and unsettling for fans in the Bay Area. Steve Kerr is sticking with most of his old foundation with Stephen Curry and Draymond Green, but Kerr has to entrust one of the young warriors, and it should be Jonathan Kuminga.

Kuminga and his potential are undeniable, but playing behind or alongside the volatile Draymond Green, who is entitled to be the way he is, makes it difficult for Kuminga to display anything. Last year, we saw glimpses after Kuminga took to the media to call out Kerr, the only positive on this team that did not involve Stephen Curry. So, this season, we finally see the transition from Green to Kuminga, becoming the offensive connector that the Warriors value so dearly.

The X-Factor: Draymond Green

Initially, I had Jonathan Kuminga as the X-factor to be different, but at the last minute, I decided to go with good ole Draymond Green because everything depends on what he says and does, as always. Green is who he is, and anyone expecting something different is honestly part of the problem because why would he change when he was rewarded for his past behavior and has the franchise superstar going to bat for him all the time? That is called or is a form of insanity (laughs). Green is pivotal this season, either returning to some normalcy or continuing descent into the Warriors’ delusional reality.

One word for the Warriors- Dry

Warriors Nation, the only word for this team is dry, meaning the well is running dry because Stephen Curry is not getting younger, Draymond Green is not going to change, and the Western Conference gets only better. The front office and Governor must face that their vision for this team and reality are dry unless they make that uncomfortable and unpopular decision of trading Green away before he ruins his already questionable trade value. Or the unthinkable and unlikely option of trading Curry. Regardless, Golden State must be realistic about where they are in the West and what may have to be done to contend again.

Houston Rockets

Who will Houston decide to build around: Jalen Green or Alperen Sengun?

Houston has an excellent problem: Who should they build this team around? Guard Jalen Green or Center Alperen Sengun. Building this team around both young stars is possible, but the trade markets for both players are overwhelming. History has shown us that the Rockets will pick one and trade the other or completely zag and trade them both to build around Jabari Smith Jr. and the other young players. Regardless, the Rockets should be on the rise, but they must decide what direction this team is going.

The X-Factor: Reed Sheppard

Again, Houston has abundant young talent, and my X-factor is rookie Reed Sheppard. Sheppard can be the ideal complement to Jalen Green for a backcourt duo or with Alperen Sengun and Jabari Smith Jr in a pick-and-pop scenario, and it will be dynamic. Sheppard was the ideal pick for Houston and will only elevate this team’s expectations for this season.

One word for the Rockets- Quiet

Several words apply to Houston this season, but I am going with quiet. The Rockets can take their time and be the scary, quiet storm that catches the Western Conference off guard, making a similar rise in the conference as Oklahoma City.

Indiana Pacers

Where does Jarace Walker fit in on this team?

Indiana has a lot of talent and hopes to build on last season’s run to the conference finals. Good luck in the health department will help, but figuring out a role where Jarace Walker can impact this team will ensure the Pacers remain in the eastern conference mix. But what would that be? It is a big question Pacer fans must ask themselves before the season starts.

The X-Factor: Jarace Walker

My X-factor was going to be Jarace Walker, who certainly only got a few opportunities to play last season with Obi Toppin and Pascal Siakam ahead of him on the depth chart, who returned this summer, leaving Walker on the outs. But Walker’s athleticism and versatility can be helpful for this fast-paced team, maybe at the small forward position in case Aaron Nesmith or Bennedict Mathurin get injured or at the center, as small ball five as much as I would hate that may be a good option for him, so hopefully Walker receives more playing time to figure out his role and potential in the future.

One word for the Pacers- Interesting

When it comes to Indiana, they are one of, if not the most interesting, to look at throughout the season. This team can make a surprise surge to the top half of the East or fall out of playoff contention. All of that hinges on what kind of season all-star Tyrese Haliburton has and whether that next step in evolving his game happens. The Pacers, on paper, look very promising, but health and consistency are going to be the deciding factors on whether last year was more about luck than anything else.

Los Angeles Clippers

Will the Clippers be better without Paul George?

The Clippers are a proverbial crockpot full of questions, but the biggest and easiest one is: Will this team be better off with Paul George? George left LA to go to Philadelphia this summer, closing another disappointing or incomplete chapter in Clipper history. This team has little left to offer its fanbase going into a brand-new state-of-the-art arena this season with just James Harden and some role players since Kawhi Leonard’s recurring knee issue will keep him out for a while, which is sad but should be expected. This looks grim for the Clippers, but we will see how this team functions without PG13.

The X-Factor: Kevin Porter Jr

My X-factor for the Clippers is going to be the controversial young talent Kevin Porter Jr. Porter Jr was not in the NBA last season because of his off-the-court problems involving domestic violence, which made teams hesitant to sign him. Still, the Clippers rolled the dice and took a flyer on him this summer. While his talent is undeniable, KPJ has to prove he has matured on and off the court while producing something explosive off the bench, which will make this decision look good instead of regretful.

One word for the LA Clippers- Downgrade

Whether Clipper fans want to hear this or not, this team coming into the season is undoubtedly a downgrade from last season and their expectations for the future. With Paul George and even Russell Westbrook leaving, this Clipper team somehow seems worse despite some of the moves they made this summer. More importantly, they are certainly a smaller team size-wise, which does not help in that highly challenging and bigger Western conference, making it all more difficult for the Clippers to make an impact this season.

Los Angeles Lakers

Does the Soap Opera end or get worse?

We move to the other and more prominent team in LA, the NBA’s equivalent of the Dallas Cowboys with the Lakers. The Lakers are always in the headlines and leading topics on sports debate shows, but that is not good when you are not winning titles or contending at the minimum standard this franchise is used to. So, does this continuing soap opera of mediocrity end or get somehow worse?

Hiring JJ Redick as the head coach and drafting Bronny James did not help, but as much as I cannot stand the hyperfocus on the Lakers, there has to be some bright spot here to indicate that things could turn around, right? Or am I delusional?

The X-Factor: JJ Redick

I went in a different direction here, the X-factor for the Lakers. Of course, I could have picked anyone from Austin Reaves to Dalton Khecht to Anthony Davis to even Bronny James, but I went with head coach JJ Redick. Redick is going to be under a massive spotlight and microscope, so how he manages this roster and personalities will be crucial in whether they got the most out of LeBron James towards the end of his career and having a healthy Anthony Davis to shoulder the burden of the regular season to make the playoffs.

One word for the LA Lakers- Repetitive

This will come off as some form of LeBron slander or whatever the young fans call it, but when it comes to the Lakers, the best word for them this season will be repetitive. Now, what do I mean by that? It will be the same cycle of people buying in and believing in this team because of LeBron James, the hope James and Davis played a majority of the season, some unknown breaks out to help, and things break a certain way for them.

But in reality, we all know what will happen: A slow or underwhelming start that leads to those rumors of LeBron wanting people traded, causing some form of disharmony, and the blame game begins. Now add the potential and highly unfair spectacle of whether or not Bronny James will play on the main roster. It makes things more tense, but what should be more focused on is whether LeBron and AD can play half the season after playing in the Olympics this summer!

Davis played the most regular-season games in his career last season, followed by the Olympics, which leaves the door wide open for him to miss considerable time this season or, worse, be injured several times, which the Lakers cannot afford. I understand being positive and hopeful about things, but sometimes being realistic and factual is the most positive thing to be, even if it comes off negative or otherwise.

Memphis Grizzlies

Can the Grizzlies be contenders again?

Perhaps the team everyone is going to keep up with is the Memphis Grizzlies. Last season was a season from hell because the horrible injury and luck that destroyed this team set things back, but everyone is returning this season healthy and refreshed, giving people hope that the Grindhouse will be back in Memphis this season.

The X-Factor: Jaren Jackson Jr

One of Memphis’s most significant and brightest young stars is Jaren Jackson Jr., who had a bad season last year and took a step back from his defensive player of the year candidate season prior. For Memphis to vault back into the top 4-5 of the West and be legit contenders again, JJJ has to take that next leap in his career, particularly on offense. Jackson Jr has the potential to be a Kevin Garnett-like Big, but something has to take off in his game this season for that to become true and for the Grizzlies to have a revenge tour-like season.

One word for the Grizzlies- Unpredictable

Unpredictable is the only word for the Grizzlies because we do not know what will happen. Will they stay healthy? Do they return to that contending form? Does Ja Morant stay on the floor and remain a top-tier talent? There are so many questions that may scare people off of Memphis, but it is a challenge not to believe that this team will not bounce right back into the top of the West with Dallas, OKC, Denver, and Minnesota.

Miami Heat

Which Jimmy Butler should we expect this season?

Heat Culture may be truly tested this season because of the unusual summer and situation involving their star Jimmy Butler. Jimmy Butler in a contract year can be beneficial or detrimental to your team’s success—just ask the Timberwolves how true that statement is. Butler and GM/Godfather of the Heat Pat Riley have had some interesting exchanges this offseason that hopefully are just some motivational tactics to get Butler back on the floor as a force like he was coming into last season.

Butler’s injury is extensive, and we can bank on him missing some time throughout the regular. Still, when the stakes are high, there are few players you want on your side. Butler is one of them, but he will be needed during the regular season to ensure Miami is in the playoff picture and to set the tone for the team that regular season matters if the goal is to get back to the finals. Butler may have to play through nagging injuries this season to keep this team sharp. Hopefully, this will not recreate what happened in Minnesota years ago.

The X-Factor: Bam Adebayo

Bam Adebayo is one the most underrated and overlooked big men in the game today, and he is undoubtedly the X-factor for this Heat team to stay afloat and in contention this season. Adebayo, like Butler, must remain as healthy as possible and play often but has to either step up or outright take the team over on offense being the central hub of their offense, almost like in a Jokic, LeBron, Giannis-like fashion for the Heat to be dangerous as well as finally give his respect and accolades he has deserved like all-star and all-NBA considerations.

One word for the Heat- Stalemate

The Miami Heat this season could be at a stalemate if nothing changes. Heat Culture has become a thing, but what is this roster past this upcoming season? Is Jimmy Butler retiring as a Heat? Do they stick with Tyler Herro or move on? Or is there another surprise superstar trade hidden in Miami’s pocket? There are a lot of what-ifs that may leave this team in limbo.

Milwaukee Bucks

Do the Bucks finally trade Khris Middleton?

The Bucks have lofty expectations to meet this season, but the one question I feel should be asked or talked about more is: Is it time to move off of Khris Middleton? As the young crowd says, Middleton is washed without question; the guy from the 2021 finals is in the rear-view mirror every season after he has missed considerable time and declined, putting Milwaukee in an awkward position.

Trying to please Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Bucks have done their best to keep certain players around in Middleton and Brook Lopez. Still, this season, the franchise will have to do what is best for business and move one of them to hopefully get younger and more versatile pieces to surround Giannis and Dame. Middleton would be the piece to move to a team that may be panicked or eager to add him to put their move over the top for a deep playoff run, but his time in Milwaukee has to end this season.

The X-Factor: Gary Trent Jr

Milwaukee’s big grab this summer was Gary Trent Jr. from Toronto, and he will be a deciding factor on this team. Trent Jr. is a seasoned veteran who can be a floor spacer with respectable shooting, but can he, Khris Middleton, and Damian Lillard be on the floor together? Not much defense will come from that combination, but maybe Trent Jr. will rediscover that aspect of his game, and there is nothing to worry about. Regardless, Trent Jr. is an upgrade from Malik Beasley and some other options last season, so maybe this situation becomes the opportunity Trent Jr. was seeking in Toronto and helps the Bucks in the process.

One word for the Bucks-Anxious

This season should make Bucks fans, the front office, and the governor anxious. With Doc Rivers coming back and still trying to figure things out, if Damian Lillard returns to form and how patient is Giannis willing to be going forward should have the anxiety level at its highest this season, which could forge this team to bounce back or lead to an implosion that none us are prepared for.

Minnesota Timberwolves

Does trading Randle for Towns make a difference?

My original question for the Timberwolves was, “Is Karl-Anthony Towns on the team at the end of the season?” Well, I got my answer last night (9/28/2024) when Minnesota traded Towns to the Knicks for Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo, which certainly changed the projections of both teams. So, my new question is, does this trade make the difference that Minnesota needs?

At the moment, the answer should be unclear. Adding Randle and DiVincenzo addresses the issues Minnesota faced in the conference finals, having some other offensive creators to help Anthony Edwards while giving a more solid fit next DPOY Rudy Gobert and his limitations. Also, the potential of playing Randle alongside Naz Reid opens up things for Reid to develop. Still, it remains unclear if this puts them back in the conference finals in this highly competitive Western Conference.

The X-Factor: Julius Randle

Initially, I had rookie Rob Dillingham as Minnesota’s X-factor for this season, but last night’s trade made a pivot and went with the apparent choice of Julius Randle. I am one of Randle’s few supporters, but his impact on this team will dictate how this season goes. Reuniting with his old coach from New Orleans, Chris Finch, will undoubtedly be a plus, along with a clean slate in a new city that is not New York City, should also be good for Randle. But how will Randle and Edwards play together? That will be something to watch throughout the season, but I will show some optimism that it will work out compared to the latter, as it ends up a disaster.

One word for the Timberwolves- Risky

This trade changed my word for Minnesota this season from limbo to risky. This is an all-in move for teams, but for the Wolves, this is incredibly risky, considering how long it may take for this team to gel with the season right around the corner. Assuming Edwards continues his incredible ascension to being a top-five potential player, this has somehow added more pressure on Rudy Gobert to step offensively and maybe defensively, which seems dangerous but may turn out OK, and Minnesota remains in the mix to top the west.

New Orleans Pelicans

Is it time to trade Brandon Ingram?

Once again, the Pelicans come into the new NBA season, and no one can resist believing that this is the year it comes together for them. But clearly, there is a fit issue, which sets up my question for New Orleans: Is it finally time to trade Brandon Ingram? The plan is to build this team around Zion Williamson, assuming he is healthy, in shape, and serious about being the guy, which leaves Ingram on the outs.

While Ingram is a talented wing player, he is not the number one option, which should open a substantial market for him to join contending teams that could use him to put them over the top for contention. Ingram can help several teams, but it will be up to New Orleans if they finally pull the trigger on moving Ingram or continue to make this awkward fit work, even if everything tells someone has to go.

The X-Factor: DeJounte Murray

DeJounte Murray joins New Orleans via a trade from Atlanta, giving this team a clear point guard option and the potential defensive edge it needs. Murray can be a solid foundation piece for what this team could be if he commits to both ends of the floor and returns to the player he was in San Antonio, which would help New Orleans greatly.

One word for the Pelicans- Confused

I am sure the front office had a vision for this team at some point, but right now, this team and its direction seem confusing. This roster has to be confused about its identity and even style of play to get the most out of its young and talented core. Hopefully, this season, David Griffin and the rest of the front office will find clarity about what this team should be going forward and not continue to be confused.

New York Knicks

Can Coach Thibs restrain himself?

We now get to the team that stole the headlines for this weekend with the Knicks, who are going all in this season, acquiring both Mikal Bridges and Karl-Anthony Towns this offseason via trades, but my question is, can coach Tom Thibodeau restrain himself from his old ways? Can Thibs stop himself from running his core group of players into the ground like he did last year and in past years?

Mikal Bridges is basketball’s Iron Man, but it will be tested. It will also show how last season’s minute load affects Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart this season. Also, can Thibs restrain himself from potentially going insane when Karl-Anthony Towns does Karl-Anthony Towns things at the worst time imaginable? While there has been success and a method to his coaching madness, Thibodeau has to fine-tune his approach with minutes distribution if this team wants to make a deep playoff run that could lead them to the finals.

The X-Factor: Karl-Anthony Towns

I feel a bit repetitive in this piece, but initially, I had Mikal Bridges as the Knicks X-factor, but I am going with Karl-Anthony Towns instead. Now, I have been clear about my dislike or disdain for Towns as a basketball player, but I can admit what he does this season in the Big Apple will be crucial as far as the ceiling of this Knicks team.

While Town’s unique skill set is a seamless fit for this Knicks team and gives them some insurance in case Mitchell Robinson breaks down again, Towns’ lack of maturity and mentality should terrify Knicks fans with title aspirations this season. Towns are going to have to accept his role in the pecking order of this team that Jalen Brunson and the Villanova crew are #1 and #2 options, as well as him having to get after it on defense and rebounding, which he has never shown, so KAT has said he wanted to prove on a big stage well can’t think of bigger stage than playing for a Knicks team with championship expectations.

One word for the Knicks- Villanova

This was one of the more straightforward one-word selections for this piece, and for the New York Knicks, that word is Villanova! This team and the city of New York have to lean into this Villanova crew of Brunson, Bridges, and Hart, along with some of that culture they learn in college. If things start bad or look dark, as marvelous a coach as Tom Thibodeau is, would it be horrible if they brought Villanova’s great coach, Jay Wright, to replace him? Probably not, but the Knicks’ success follows Jalen Brunson’s heights, and the Nova crew can take this, plain and simple.

Oklahoma City Thunder

Will the Thunder make the NBA Finals?

The OKC Thunder have validated the hype that others and I have been screaming about over the past couple of seasons with last season’s impressive leap to the top of the West. Coming into this season, there will be a bullseye on them, but this team should remain at the top, barring a horrible case of injury luck, which leads to a hyperbolic question of “Can the Thunder make the Finals this year?” That possibility cannot be ignored. Everyone returning healthy and ready to go, along with the additions of Alex Caruso and Isaiah Hartenstein, makes that possible, so why can’t it be?

The X-Factor: Alex Caruso

For me, Alex Caruso will be the X-factor for this team because the addition of Hartenstein balances the lineup where Chet Holmgren can play the stretch 4 for most of the games instead of center, making him more effective on both ends. Both Caruso’s veteran presence and defensive attitude are going to be the glue that binds everything on this team together, opening more space for Jalen Williams and potential MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, creating easier baskets for Holmgren and Hartenstein, and taking some pressure off of Lou Dort to be a menace for the second unit will only help this promising team become truly dangerous to the rest of the conference.

One word for the Thunder-Primed

Again, this was easy, but the word for this Thunder squad is primed. This group is primed and ready to make another giant leap and have a real run to at least the conference finals. This group may be similar to the young KD, Russ, and Harden Thunder teams of the early 2010s, which could be disastrous for some teams in the West that may be heading downhill as this group continues to rise.

Orlando Magic

Does Franz Wagner return to form?

Something is brewing in Orlando, as this Magic team was the surprise in the east last year, but their performance in the playoffs was concerning, specifically the play of Franz Wagner. Wagner was potentially on track to win the Most Improved Player last season, but after the all-star break, something went wrong; he stopped shooting, which was highlighted in their series against the Cavaliers, where Cleveland was just left alone to shoot instead of driving.

Hopefully, Wagner will return to that promising form during the season because he is vital to this team and its potential. The German Sprewell, as I like to call him, has to be a shot creator on the perimeter, so the floor opens up for him and Paolo Banchero to be the giant-size playmakers they want to be for Orlando.

The X-Factor: Kentavious Caldwell-Pope

Orlando may not have landed Klay Thompson, but they got someone just as good or better in Kentavious Caldwell-Pope. KCP is the veteran 3&D piece this team desperately needed, and he will provide the spacing this team needed last postseason. Caldwell-Pope also brings the championship pedigree and professionalism this young group needs to make another leap in their development, which will benefit Banchero, Wagner, and Anthony, who will play alongside KCP this season.

One word for the Magic- Ambitious

Coming into this season, the Orlando Magic should be ambitious and go for it, trying out stuff to flesh out what this team will be around their young superstar Paolo Banchero. The Magic should at least stay the course from last season, remaining in the top six of the East, but they could make a run for the top three, considering what may happen to some of the other teams in that mix this season.

Philadelphia 76ers

Can we trust Joel Embiid’s body?

One of the other annoying and repetitive narratives in basketball is the Philadelphia 76ers. Is this the year for “The Process” to finally pay off? Again, we all know that window has been slammed shut, which sucks for the city of Philadelphia, but I will take part in the madness here by asking if we can trust Joel Embiid’s body?Now, I am loud and incredibly proud of my feelings towards Joel Embiid as a basketball player. Yes, his talent is incredible, at the top five level, but for any talented player, their ability is AVALABILITY!

And Joel does not have that, no matter how much fans wish. Embiid’s body is not built to carry a team to a championship, and he also does not do the best job of taking care of his fragile body in the off-season. We have seen and heard this bit about Embiid and the Sixers for the past five years or so, so unless an expected miracle happens this season, I think it is safe to say the 76ers will greatly disappoint that loyal city and fanbase again by not making a deep run in the playoffs if they even make it that far.

The X-Factor: Paul George

The big catch of this past free agency was Paul George, whom Philadelphia had on the board for a long time and got. But like Embiid, PG may not be available long enough for this team to position themselves well for a playoff run. George is a noticeable upgrade from Tobias Harris as the third option that could hold Philadelphia when Embiid misses time throughout the season.

One word for the 76ers- Frantic

Regarding the 76ers, frantic is the best word because this franchise will be in a frenzy from top to bottom if this season is another disappointment. From this roster to the possibility of relocating this storied franchise to New Jersey, frantic will be the perfect word and theme if anything below at least a conference final appearance happens this season.

Phoenix Suns

Are the Suns ready to make Bradley Beal the Sixth Man?

Another team that may be frantic is the Suns, who certainly are at a crossroads with what the future holds, but are the Suns and their fans ready to make Bradley Beal the sixth man? Costly contract aside, does it make sense for Beal to remain in the starting lineup, leaving a much-needed floor general in Tyus Jones on the bench? The answer should be no, and hopefully, coach Bud will make the right decision by starting Jones as the true point guard and having Beal come off the bench if he wants to maximize Durant and Booker’s output this season.

The X-Factor: Tyus Jones

Tyus Jones may have been low-balled in his free agency this summer, but he may have landed in a good spot where he can be the point guard and floor general a contending team needs. While the pressure in Phoenix is intense, Jones can be the difference the Suns need to get back on track and in contention out in the West.

One word for the Suns- Stressful

The valley will be stressful this season regarding the Suns. Kevin Durant is easily disgruntled, and Devin Booker’s potential asking out could be a nightmare for Phoenix, so the word stressful is the perfect choice for this situation in the desert.

Portland Trailblazers

Who will be the new face of the Trailblazers?

Portland enters year two of the post-Dame era with an extremely young team and no established identity, which raises the question of who the face of the franchise is. Scoot Henderson, Shaedon Sharpe, DeAndre Ayton, or rookie Donovan Clingan are the potential choices. Is that player a year away from entering the draft with the highly touted Cooper Flagg? Regardless, this team has to establish its core identity and determine who will be the foundational pieces to this phase in Portland from now on.

The X-Factor: Deni Avdija

Deni Avdija is finally free from the absolute mess in Washington and gets a fresh start in Portland. He will be a positive for this team, giving the Blazers the courage to finally move on from Jerami Grant and creating some space to make a potential big move down the road. Avdija brings much-needed flexibility at multiple positions and some offensive creativity while Portland figures out its backcourt situation this season.

One word for the Trailblazers- Leadership

The Blazers need leadership, but who will take on that responsibility? For me, the answer should be and hopefully will be Scoot Henderson, who will have a bounce-back second season and continue to grow as a potential star. Sure, Anfernee Simons would be the obvious choice. Still, Portland needs to be proactive with trading Simons and Grant to contenders, giving their young core the confidence and opportunity they need to develop. Hence, leadership from Henderson or Sharpe only makes sense.

Sacramento Kings

Are the Kings legitimate contenders or great pretenders?

I did not want to use such a cliché phrase/ question, but when it comes to Sacramento, the only question that fits this team is, are they for real or not? Taking a big step back last season, the Kings have to return to some contending form in a Western Conference that is somehow more competitive, leaving Sacramento in that horrible middle ground where they can get back into contention or be surpassed by some up-and-coming teams. The Kings must leap forward this season if being genuine and consistent contenders is the goal.

The X-Factor: DeMar DeRozan

The Kings made a great move this offseason when they signed scoring veteran DeMar DeRozan, who will finally play some competitive again after being in Chicago the past few seasons. DeRozan will be the player who can get Sacramento over this hump and become contenders in the West if everything goes to plan.

One word for the Kings- Recover

When it comes to the Kings, this season should be all about recovery. Health-wise and team-wise, the Kings must recover and get back into the playoff picture this season, with the Western Conference going through a possible changing of the guard these next few seasons.

 San Antonio Spurs

Will Chris Paul help the Spurs make the play-in?

Chris Paul’s journey continues in San Antonio, where his skills will be appreciated, helping the young players on this team develop. The Paul & Wemby pick-and-roll will be dynamic, which will only help Wemby continue to evolve into the megastar he is fated to be. That and Paul’s relationship coach, Popovich, will be a secret weapon for the Spurs.

The X-Factor: Chris Paul

Chris Paul may be on his farewell tour, and the odds of him winning a championship are slim, which is unfortunate, but Paul’s influence on this new generation may be better for his legacy. Hopefully, Paul can be practical while playing limited minutes to make it late in the season, which would be great for everyone in San Antonio.

One word for the Spurs- Wemby

The only word that should matter to the Spurs is Wemby, as in Victor Wembanyama, who is coming off an impressive outing representing his home country in the Olympics this summer. If that is the case, things could be ahead of schedule regarding Wemby and the Spurs’ progression, which should concern the rest of the Western Conference.

Toronto Raptors

What is the plan?

Now to my beloved Toronto Raptors, who finally did the right thing by welcoming back and retiring Vince Carter’s #15 this season. (I Can’t wait to be there.) That may be the highlight of this upcoming season. But going forward, every Raptors fan has and continues to ask, what exactly is the plan?

Are they going all in on building around Scottie Barnes after his generous extension this summer? Is Immanuel Quickley truly our starting point guard? Or is there another blockbuster trade in the future? This team has a lot of uncertainty, which may make this season unpleasant.

The X-Factor: Gradey Dick

Gradey Dick will be the X-factor for the Raptors this season. Spending most of his rookie year in the G-League, Dick did not play towards the end of the regular season, but he is going to have to be the dependable shooter for Barnes’ playmaking to give the offense some juice. The training wheels will have to come off for Gradey Dick if Toronto wants to make a run at the play-in situation, which could be a possibility.

One word for the Raptors- Blah

The Toronto Raptors’ word for this season is simply blah. While we will be watching to see if Scottie Barnes takes that leap, we have been expecting the past two seasons, and there are not many expectations or hopes for this team coming into the season because it is all up in there. So, this may be another blah season for the team, but I still hold out for something positive for fans to have hope in the future.

Utah Jazz

Will the tanking continue?

The Utah Jazz certainly has the cap space and draft picks to make a surprise trade for a top-tier star over the last couple of seasons and this upcoming season, so will the tanking continue? Especially with next year’s class and Copper Flagg, it may be enough for Utah to throw away another season, but sometime soon, they will have to do something with all the picks and cap space to make them an up-and-coming team in the future.

The X-Factor: John Collins

John Collins can become an important player this season because there will be a strong trade market for all-star Lauri Markkanen. This means the log jam upfront could be cleared up, giving Collins some clarity on this team. His athleticism will complement the young core that is developing in Keyonte George, Taylor Hendricks, and Isaiah Collier, making the Jazz a potential sleeper in the conference.

One word for the Jazz- Hope

Hope has to motivate the Utah Jazz. They hope that the plan GM Danny Ainge has in place will pay off like it did in Boston, that Keyonte George becomes the breakout star and sticks around, and that they will be back in the playoffs again in the future. Coach Will Hardy is an underrated coach and certainly can bring things together in Utah, turning that hope into an actual reality.

Washington Wizards

Can it get any worse?

Unfortunately, we end this piece with the biggest embarrassment in the NBA with the Wizards. Can this situation get any worse? Honestly, we do not know because it is possible, especially with the current front office in place, but every team deserves to have some hope or light at the end of the tunnel to hold on. Sadly, it seems like a complete overhaul of the team will be the only way that is possible. Otherwise, it is going to be another long season in the nation’s capital.

The X-Factor: Bilal Coulibaly

The only thing that may make the Wizards worth watching a few times this season is Bilal Coulibaly and his progress into a potential pillar for this team. Coulibaly showed glimpses of something promising last season amidst the disaster around him, so I expect him to take the lead and become a vocal point for Washington to keep and build around.

One word for the Wizards- Shameful

The fans in the D.C. and DMV area deserve a competent basketball team to watch, and the Wizards just have not done that in any fashion. Again, it starts from the top with the governor, who is one of the worst in sports. The entire franchise is shameful outside of Bilal Coulibaly and Kyle Kuzma. The Wizards need to do something to turn things around for this team and city to be some kind of a destination again someday.