2024-25 Season Recap

The team finished last season with an 18-64 record, placing 15th in the Eastern Conference and missing the playoffs.

Offseason Moves

Key additions included Tre Johnson, Cam Whitmore, CJ McCollum, and Malaki Branham. The roster saw the departure of Jordan Poole, Marcus Smart, Saddiq Bey, and Malcolm Brogdon.

The Hot Topic: Who Will Lead the Team?

The roster includes 12 players drafted in the first round since 2021, with young talents like Alex Sarr (No. 2 overall in 2024) and Tre Johnson, both under 21, leading the charge. Other recent first-round picks, such as AJ Johnson, Dillon Jones, and Cam Whitmore, are also in development. Veteran players Khris Middleton and CJ McCollum, though aging, still aim to contribute significantly.

Coach Brian Keefe faces the challenge of balancing the development of young players with the experience of seasoned veterans, aiming to construct a cohesive team rather than focus solely on wins. The primary goal is to identify emerging stars and establish a new core for the franchise.

Best-Case Scenario

Assuming the young core excels—Sarr providing defense and spacing, Johnson demonstrating scoring ability, and others fulfilling their roles—the team could contend for meaningful progress next season. This would set the stage for continued growth and possibly another high draft pick.

Worst-Case Scenario

If the young players don’t develop as hoped and veterans like Middleton and McCollum can’t fill the void, the team risks stagnation. A lack of internal talent and continued rebuilding could lead to prolonged struggles, leaving the franchise without a clear star or direction.

Upcoming Schedule

• Season opener: October 22 at Milwaukee

The team’s focus will be on developing young talent, often at the expense of winning games, emphasizing player growth over standings in the early stages of the rebuild.