NBA Training Camps Preview: Teams, Players, and Storylines to Watch as the Season Approaches
NBA training camps are set to open at the end of the month as September begins, signaling the return of players and coaches to the hardcourt. The Brooklyn Nets, New York Knicks, Philadelphia 76ers, New Orleans Pelicans, and Phoenix Suns will be the first teams to report on September 24. There are still unresolved issues with key unsigned restricted free agents like Josh Giddey, Jonathan Kuminga, Quentin Grimes, and Cam Thomas, as teams have limited cap space to work with.
As the NBA gears up for training camps, USA TODAY Sports has released its power rankings. The Oklahoma City Thunder, with their young stars locked up to extensions, are looking to maintain their standard of excellence. The Denver Nuggets have made significant moves to enhance their offense, while the New York Knicks are expected to rely more on their bench this season.
The Cleveland Cavaliers have bolstered their depth with new additions like Lonzo Ball and Larry Nance Jr., aiming to improve on their playoff performance. The Los Angeles Clippers are making a final push with their current roster, adding veterans like Chris Paul and Bradley Beal. The Minnesota Timberwolves face questions after consecutive Western Conference finals exits.
The Los Angeles Lakers, despite uncertainties surrounding LeBron James, are expected to be competitive with a motivated Luka Dončić. The Boston Celtics will face challenges with Jayson Tatum out for the season, while the Detroit Pistons look to return Jaden Ivey to their lineup. The Golden State Warriors and Indiana Pacers are in reset mode, dealing with key player absences.
The Memphis Grizzlies have a promising roster with young talent and a focus on minimizing turnovers. The Milwaukee Bucks need to convince Giannis Antetokounmpo of their championship aspirations. The Atlanta Hawks have added key players and will welcome back Jalen Johnson from injury. The Dallas Mavericks will miss Kyrie Irving but have a potent offensive lineup.
The Miami Heat have addressed scoring issues with the addition of Norman Powell, while the Chicago Bulls are waiting on Josh Giddey's decision in a tough market. The Philadelphia 76ers have a strong backcourt with the addition of VJ Edgecombe. The Toronto Raptors will benefit from a healthy Brandon Ingram, and the Sacramento Kings rely on Domantas Sabonis for success.
The Brooklyn Nets will be led by Devin Booker following the Kevin Durant trade, with a focus on team chemistry. The Washington Wizards are building for the future with young talent like Alex Sarr and Cam Whitmore. The Portland Trail Blazers will look to Jrue Holiday for leadership in Damian Lillard's absence. The New Orleans Pelicans need more from Zion Williamson to succeed, while the Utah Jazz are in a rebuilding phase with salary considerations in mind.
In the weeks leading up to training camps, teams are making final preparations and adjustments to their rosters, setting the stage for an exciting NBA season ahead.