NBA Storylines Heading into the 22-23 Season
After a thrilling '21-'22 NBA season that saw the Golden State Warriors reconquer the crown, basketball fans await for the next big offseason news to break. Until then, let's identify some key storylines headed into next year.
Will last year's contenders be back?
For the Warriors, it's all about replicating what worked last year. The re-signing of Kevon Looney, who is a staple of Golden State's scheme, is a great start. The loss of Gary Payton is significant, so the Warriors need to replace what Payton brought in relentless perimeter defense and athleticism. Perhaps the development of Jonathan Kuminga will make up for it.
Boston had a historic playoff run and have continued to impress in the offseason. The acquisition of Malcolm Brogdon directly addresses their need of a true facilitating point guard. Miami, on the other hand, seems to be stuck. Unlike the Warriors and Celtics, I don't think the roster that Miami currently has can win a title. They'll need to make a key acquisition this offseason if they want another chance at making the finals.
Milwaukee unfortunately lost Khris Middleton for their 2nd round matchup against Boston, a series which they lost in 7 games. Milwaukee practically has the same roster that they did during their championship season in 2021, so as long as they stay healthy come the playoffs, they're contenders.
How big of a leap can younger, newer playoff teams make?
Out of the 4 semifinalists, Dallas was least expected to make their conference finals, but the Mavs have truly put the league on notice as a team that should be contending out west for the foreseeable future. I like the addition of Christian Wood, and as long as Dallas continues to build around Luka, they'll be one of the best in the West.
Minnesota is a very interesting team to keep an eye on, and the range of possibilities next season is quite wide given their activity this offseason, notably the acquisition of Rudy Gobert. While Rudy certainly improves Minny's roster, he can clearly be a liability in the playoffs. We'll see if Minnesota can get to at least the second round next year.
The Grizzlies had an outstanding year, but ultimately fell to the Dubs. With Ja leading a balanced and deep team with loads of chemistry, you can guarantee a top 5 seed for Memphis next year. Memphis should be competing for a spot in the Western Conference Finals again next year.
Can teams that were injured make a resurgence?
Both the Clippers and Nuggets had key season long injuries that drastically impacted their seasons last year. Kawhi Leonard was out for the entire year for LA and Paul George came back for the last third of the season. Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr were also injured for the entirety of last season. If both Denver and LA are fully healthy throughout next season, both are contenders to win the West, especially considering LA's recent signing of John Wall.
