The 2024-25 NBA season is almost here.
Last season, the Lakers won the first in-season tournament with LeBron and Anthony Davis leading the way. The Pacers, who lost in the final, proved they were contenders by reaching the Eastern Conference finals. Meanwhile, the Lakers were knocked out by Denver after surviving the play-in tournament.
Winning midseason tournaments might soon be a big deal for teams. Dominating these games could become something to brag about .
Midseason Tournaments: A New Era
The Emirates NBA Cup is just a start of exciting changes to the NBA schedule. Teams will strive for success in these midseason competitions as branding and marketing grow both globally and on TV. Imagine colorful jerseys and custom courts! Fans will want their teams involved more than ever.
The Changing Trade Deadline
The new collective bargaining agreement has changed how trades work in the NBA. With new rules making it hard for teams over certain salary limits to trade, blockbuster deals are rare now. For example, trades like Jrue Holiday’s move to Boston wouldnโt happen under current rules because of salary restrictions.
Teams now avoid tanking and aim for at least play-in spots while players extend contracts instead of hitting free agency. This has shifted trade deadline activity towards smaller deals rather than big moves. Fans might feel that draft day and free agency have more excitement now.
Victor Wembanyama’s Rise
Victor Wembanyama is ready to dominate! This 7-foot-4 defensive giant from France is already projected to win two major awards in his second season. After averaging nearly 23.5 points, 12 rebounds, and 4.5 blocks per game post-All-Star break last year without a solid point guard, he’s set for even greater things with Chris Paul on board now.
With a year of experience and an impressive Olympic run behind him, fans expect Wembanyama to be in talks for Defensive Player of the Year by midseason 2025โa certified All-Star and possibly one of the top-10 players in the league!
What do you think? Will these changes make this NBA season more exciting?
