NBA Offseason Overview
The NBA offseason has reached a standstill, primarily due to a freeze on the free agent market that’s impacting four younger players who are unable to finalize their contracts. This has effectively paused most summer activities in the league. While time remains for some major trades before training camps commence on October 1st, it appears there’s a strong sense of stability in the league as teams prepare for the upcoming season.
Recently, ESPN released their updated Power Rankings for the 2025-26 season, which were created by a panel of nine writers. These rankings attempt to capture the current dynamics of the championship and tank races, as well as the mid-tier teams. Naturally, everyone is likely to debate these placements.
We’ll be sharing our own rankings shortly, but for now, it’s worth noting some teams that seem either underrated or overrated, based on the ESPN evaluations.
Underrated: Denver Nuggets
Surprisingly, the Nuggets are ranked lower than the Thunder and Rockets. While Oklahoma City deserves recognition, I think the Nuggets could be their toughest competition. Denver had an excellent offseason, bringing in talents like Cam Johnson, Bruce Brown, Tim Hardaway Jr., and Jonas Valanciunas. They’ve shifted from relying on inexperienced young players to a more veteran-laden squad. I mean, upgrading from Michael Porter Jr. to Johnson? That’s a big jump. Picture Johnson benefiting from playing alongside Nikola Jokic, who, let’s be real, is the best player in the league and shows no signs of decline. With better support surrounding their stars, the Nuggets have a legitimate shot at claiming the championship this season. In my view, they’ll emerge as one of the top contenders.
Overrated: Dallas Mavericks
The Mavericks may struggle significantly this season, especially given that Kyrie Irving is likely to spend most of the year recovering from a torn ACL. This leaves Dallas in dire need of reliable ball handling, especially with free agency signings like D’Angelo Russell and Dante Exum being the only recognizable points in their lineup. ESPN ranks them as the eighth-best team in the West, placing them ahead of teams like the Grizzlies, Spurs, and Trail Blazers. Personally, I wouldn’t be surprised if two of those teams outpace Dallas, pushing the Mavericks back into lottery contention. They’ve got a promising rookie in Cooper Flagg, but keep in mind he’ll be the youngest player in the league. Their frontline features an intriguing duo in Anthony Davis and Dereck Lively II, but I’m honestly concerned about Davis’s availability. Plus, their 3-point shooting is among the league’s worst, and I wonder if their defense can compensate for that deficiency.
Overrated: Milwaukee Bucks
The Bucks’ desperate moves to appease Giannis Antetokounmpo this summer included trading for Damian Lillard and signing Miles Turner. Many expect Turner to serve as a solid complement to Giannis, especially at age 29, but it’s unclear whether this strategy is enough to elevate them as the sixth seed in the East. They still lack a starting point guard, and while players like Cole Anthony, Ryan Rollins, and Kevin Porter Jr. have potential, they can’t replace a healthy Lillard. Also, the lack of depth on the wings—unless Kyle Kuzma makes a remarkable comeback—raises some serious questions. In today’s NBA, depth is crucial, so I’m skeptical about how this team can secure a playoff spot unless Giannis plays at an otherworldly level throughout the season.
Underrated: San Antonio Spurs
The Spurs are gearing up to surprise some folks in the Western Conference. Reports indicate that Victor Wembanyama is ready to bounce back from last season’s shoulder injury, and he could emerge as a top 10 player. Despite only seeing five games alongside De’Aaron Fox last year, he has the potential to become a true standout. Additionally, Stefon Castle and newcomer Dylan Harper may elevate their game. With Luke Kornet and Kelly Olynyk providing much-needed depth, I think this team is set to be more competitive than their current ranking of 10th in the West.
Overrated: Boston Celtics
The Celtics might be in a tough position right now, particularly with Jason Tatum recovering from an Achilles injury. Their frontcourt looks particularly weak with Niemias Keita and Sam Hauser stepping up, which makes things precarious. They seem to be setting the stage for a potential rebuild, especially if Tatum can’t contribute meaningfully this season. With Jalen Brown and Derrick White perhaps sidelined, I wouldn’t be surprised to see Boston struggle, possibly leading them to aim for a top draft pick come lottery time. They might not make the playoffs this season.
Underrated: Charlotte Hornets
Ah, the Hornets… I’ve had my doubts about them in the past, but this year could be different. For Charlotte to climb the rankings, LaMelo Ball has to stay healthy, and both Brandon Miller and Connepel need to step up big time. I honestly believe they can pull off some wins in what looks like a down year for the East. Colin Sexton isn’t a bad addition, still a young player with potential. While I worry about their big man rotation, I see the potential for this team to be more competitive, especially under a promising young coach.
