With the NBA Draft taking place last week and the free agency starting later today, we are finally seeing the 2022-2023 season come together. Furthermore, plenty of fundamental players that had to miss some of last season’s games recently announced they are fully available to play for their respective teams. Even though expectations constantly change, we are starting to have a clearer idea of the teams that will take the world by surprise in this upcoming year. Here are three of them.
New Orleans Pelicans
The Pelicans left nothing but good impressions this last season. With a tremendous jump in performance in the playoffs, they almost dethroned a healthy Phoenix Suns team, who were the clear favorites to win the title when the postseason started, ending the series 4-2. Both CJ McCollum and Brandom Ingram led the team in terms of offensive performance, with staggering 49.2 combined points per game. Additionally, Zion Williamson’s updates have been pretty hopeful thus far, which means the team will gain even more offensive momentum, especially in the paint. Therefore, we would not be surprised if they finally clinch a playoff spot as a result.
Prediction for next season: 5th seed
Los Angeles Clippers
Perhaps the team that struggled the most when it came to injuries, the Clippers seem to have overcome that setback, now having a complete roster for next season. Despite having Kawhi Leonard out for the year, and Paul George only playing 31 games, they still managed to get a Play-in spot as the 9th seed, with a 42-40 record. Having these two skilful players back on the court together will only bring good things for the Los Angeles team. Not to mention their latest addition, John Wall. The former Houston Rockets player can potentially be essential for the Clippers both defensively and offensively. While Wall might not be at 100%, his playstyle fits perfectly with them.
Prediction for next season: 4th seed
Boston Celtics
Even though they still are one of the favorites to win the title, the Boston Celtics still have a lot to prove. Their loss in the Finals, while unfortunate, can motivate them even more to win it all, fulfilling the need for victory. Despite the roster not undergoing too many changes, their current players are really consistent overall. They have young yet experienced players who have already demonstrated incredible strength on both sides of the court. However, we are yet to see their movements for the off-season. Although the team does not have an easy path ahead of them by any means, as the competition in the Eastern Conference seems closer than ever, the recent setbacks could be all they need to achieve greatness and take over the league.
Prediction for next season: 3rd seed
We are really looking forward to the start of the 2022-2023 NBA season. Of course, there are still many signings yet to be revealed to have a clearer image of the league’s future. For now, it is safe to say these three teams will definitely be of interest and strong contenders for next year. Which would you add to the list?
Text sources: www.nba.com, basketball.realgm.com
