This NBA offseason has already brought plenty of change. In the West, teams like the Rockets, Nuggets, Clippers, and Timberwolves all look ready to challenge the Thunder’s title defense. The East may not be as stacked, but with the Celtics and Pacers pulling back from contention, new opportunities are opening up. And, as always, every season features its share of dark horse teams. Here are five squads that could emerge as next year’s surprises.
Hawks
Atlanta has been quiet for some time. While Trae Young has had his moments, the team hasn’t achieved the results they expected. Still, management is giving him one more chance — if he performs, he’ll likely get an extension, but if not, his future in Atlanta could be in doubt.
This summer, the Hawks added Kristaps Porzingis, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, and Luke Kennard. With Porzingis boosting the starting lineup, Atlanta now has size across four positions (aside from the 6’1” Young), creating physical mismatches and improving overall talent. Coming off just an 8th-place finish last season, they have a realistic shot at a top-four seed if things click.
76ers
Philadelphia disappointed last year, but they remain a team that can’t be overlooked. A healthy Joel Embiid ensures a high floor, and he’s still a top-five player in the league when available. The Sixers’ problem has always been health — their “Big Three” rarely share the court.
Even though Paul George is past his prime, he brings valuable experience. Tyrese Maxey continues to grow into the team’s floor general, while young talents like Quentin Grimes and Ron Holland provide depth. Philly might not be on the Cavs’ or Knicks’ level yet, but as a strong second-tier contender in the East, they could shake up the playoff race.
Spurs
San Antonio’s rise is only a matter of time. Victor Wembanyama has already shown generational talent, and accolades like DPOY or even MVP feel inevitable. Last season, the Spurs struggled partly due to Wemby’s late-season injury and a lack of chemistry with their backcourt. But with more time, cohesion should improve.
The Spurs now pair Wemby with last year’s Rookie of the Year Stephon Castle and this year’s No. 2 pick Ace Harper, giving them a gifted young backcourt. Add in vets like Kelly Olynyk and Luke Kornet to ease Wemby’s workload, plus athletic wings like Jeremy Sochan, Keldon Johnson, and Devin Vassell, and this team has the talent to rise quickly.
Hornets
Charlotte has long been an afterthought — poor management and bad luck have kept them near the bottom. But this summer brought meaningful changes. The Hornets added Spencer Dinwiddie and Collin Sexton, giving them backcourt insurance if LaMelo Ball’s health issues persist.
With LaMelo and Brandon Miller expected to keep improving, Miles Bridges providing steady production, and new rotation pieces bolstering the lineup, the Hornets may not be playoff locks, but a play-in spot is realistic. At the very least, they won’t be stuck at the bottom anymore, which is vital for developing their young core.
Mavericks
Last season was disastrous for Dallas — Luka Dončić went down, multiple players were injured, and they missed the playoffs. But fortune smiled in the lottery as they landed the No. 1 pick and selected Cooper Flagg, reigniting hope among the fanbase.
Although Kyrie Irving will miss the first half of the season, the Mavericks traded for D’Angelo Russell and bolstered their depth. Their defense is among the strongest in the league, anchored by a deep frontcourt rotation of P.J. Washington, Anthony Davis, Dereck Lively II, and Daniel Gafford. On offense, rookies like Ron Holland add sparks, and once Kyrie returns, the team could be dangerous. As their GM said: “Defense wins championships.” Dallas could be the West’s ultimate dark horse.
So, what do you think of these five teams? Which one has the best shot at becoming next season’s breakout surprise?
