The New Orleans Pelicans are poised for a potential paradigm shift this season, with Zion Williamson possibly stepping into the role of starting center on opening night. Traditionally listed as a power forward, Williamson, at 6-foot-6, brings a unique dynamic to the position, despite not being a significant rebounder or possessing the typical rim protection skills expected of a center.
Last season marked a significant turning point for Williamson. Playing in a career-high 70 regular-season games, he showed remarkable improvement and resilience. "In the best shape of his career, Williamson showed that he could handle heavy minutes while carrying a heavy playmaking load and competing defensively like never before," noted James Herbert. This consistent performance was a revelation, considering Williamson’s previous struggles with injuries and conditioning.
However, the season was not without its challenges. During a high-stakes play-in game against the Los Angeles Lakers, Williamson strained his hamstring executing a crucial floater over Anthony Davis. The shot gave him 40 points, marking one of the biggest stages of his career, yet his efforts fell short as the Pelicans couldn't secure the victory. Herbert recounted, "On one of the biggest stages of his career, he had come through with one of his finest games, leading a fourth-quarter comeback that would fall short after he checked out."
The offseason saw significant changes across the league. Paul George made headlines by moving to the Philadelphia 76ers in free agency after five years with the Los Angeles Clippers. According to Jack Maloney, “He stamped his status with a spectacular playoff run, in which he hit the two biggest shots: the game-tying 3-pointer in the waning seconds of Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals and the game-sealing jumper in Game 3 of the Finals.” As George begins a new chapter with the 76ers, his absence leaves a notable void for the Clippers.
Other standouts from last season included Donovan Mitchell and Kawhi Leonard. Mitchell achieved career highs in assists, rebounds, and steals, asserting himself as a multi-faceted threat. Leonard also made a substantial impact, playing in 68 games and demonstrating his continued importance to his team.
In Boston, Jaylen Brown emerged as a clutch performer, hitting pivotal shots during a remarkable playoff run. The Celtics' success was further bolstered by Jayson Tatum, who has now made the All-NBA First Team for three consecutive seasons. Tatum's ascent is illustrated by his passing of Kobe Bryant for the most playoff points before turning 27, and leading the Celtics to their league-leading 18th championship. During this championship run, Tatum led his team in points, rebounds, and assists, showcasing his all-around excellence.
The Phoenix Suns found a key piece in Devin Booker, who assumed the role of point guard for a team lacking in that department. Jasmyn Wimbish praised Booker’s efficiency, noting, "Booker has arguably become one of the most underrated players in the league and among the most efficient."
Meanwhile, Anthony Edwards' performance was nothing short of spectacular. Leading the Timberwolves to the Western Conference finals and playing a pivotal role in Team USA’s gold medal victory over the summer, Edwards demonstrated his burgeoning potential and leadership on the court.
Kevin Durant also maintained his elite status, averaging 27-6-5 on 41% 3-point shooting and appearing in 75 games, his highest since leaving Golden State. Collectively, these performances underscored a year of compelling narratives and individual achievements.
In an era where younger players are making significant strides, LeBron James continued to defy age expectations. He became the oldest player to win an MVP award in any competition featuring active NBA players during the 2024 Olympics. Editor Sam Quinn encapsulated the sentiment around James: "Sure, it's unreasonable to expect the impending quadragenarian to be the NBA's best player over the course of an 82-game season anymore, but make no mistake, in a smaller sample, there still might not be a single player in all of basketball that inspires more fear in his opponents than LeBron James."
As the new season approaches, the league's landscape is buzzing with anticipation. From Zion Williamson's potential role change with the Pelicans to the shifts in team dynamics with moves like Paul George's departure, the stage is set for another thrilling NBA season. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how these narratives will unfold and shape the future of the league.