NBA Post-Season Assessments: Knicks, Rockets, Celtics, Cavaliers, Thunder
In the world of the National Basketball Association (NBA), the offseason of 2025 has been a period of significant change and rebalancing. Let's take a look at how some of the league's key teams have fared in their quest for championship glory.
The Houston Rockets have enjoyed a successful offseason, earning an A grade, thanks in large part to their acquisitions. The team, which lost Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, Cam Whitmore, and Jock Landale, has made up for these departures by signing a long-term extension with Jabari Smith and acquiring Kevin Durant, Dorian Finney-Smith, Clint Capela, Josh Okogie, and Jabari Smith. However, there is a potential lack of depth at the shooting guard position.
On the other hand, the New York Knicks have received a B- grade for their offseason. The team, which has lost Precious Achiuwa, has added Jordan Clarkson and Guerschon Yabusele to their roster. The potential benefits of getting Mikal Bridges to commit to a discount for the Knicks are not specified.
The Boston Celtics, following Jayson Tatum’s full season injury, have had to pivot significantly. The team, which has lost Lonzo Ball and Larry Nance Jr., has not made any notable additions, earning a B grade for their offseason. The rebuilt roster for the 2025–26 season features returning players like Jaylen Brown and Derrick White, alongside young or less proven talents. The Celtics' front office prioritized financial flexibility and long-term planning, aiming to remain competitive while allowing time for Tatum’s recovery.
The Cleveland Cavaliers have also been active, adding Lonzo Ball and Larry Nance Jr., and losing Ty Jerome and Isaac Okoro. The details of how the Boston Celtics went about their business in the summer of 2025 are not provided.
The Oklahoma City Thunder, who have won the title alone, have faced the question of whether fresh blood is needed to bring back the fire the next season. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, and Chet Holmgren of the Thunder have all signed extensions. The extension for Chet Holmgren is notable as he missed his entire rookie season and played just 32 regular season games last year. The Thunder have not made any notable additions or departures.
The old adage is that champions need fresh blood to bring back the fire the next season, and it's fair to wonder if the Oklahoma City Thunder’s experience of winning a title alone is enough. The New York Knicks are looking for their new head coach, Mike Brown, to change their offense and use the improved depth to their advantage.
In summary, after Tatum’s injury, the Boston Celtics rebuilt by trading veteran stars, acquiring role players, signing young prospects, and managing salary cap constraints, resulting in a roster with promising depth but lacking a clear superstar to immediately replace Tatum’s production. The activity of the Nuggets and Rockets this offseason has given the impression that any gap that existed prior has been addressed in a big way. The Houston Rockets, New York Knicks, Boston Celtics, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Oklahoma City Thunder will all be interesting teams to watch as the 2025–26 season unfolds.
- Despite the lack of a clear superstar following Jayson Tatum's injury, the rebuilt Boston Celtics roster, featuring promising depth and young prospects, will be an intriguing team to watch in the upcoming NBA season.
- The Oklahoma City Thunder, fresh off their championship win, have chosen to retain their core players by signing extensions, but the question remains whether this is enough to sustain their success in the playoffs next season.
- The New York Knicks' offseason acquisition of new head coach Mike Brown and improvement of their depth are anticipated to transform their offense and make them a formidable rookie team in the NBA playoffs of the 2025–26 season.
