As NBA training camps approach, renowned sports media outlet Bleacher Report has released a comprehensive evaluation of the opening-night starting lineups for all 30 teams. In the report, the Houston Rockets stand out as the only team to earn an A rating, the Golden State Warriors follow closely with an A-, while the traditional powerhouse Los Angeles Lakers received only a B.
Houston Rockets: “New Big Five” Earn Top Marks
Analysts regard the Rockets as the offseason’s most successful team. Their projected starting lineup features veteran point guard Fred VanVleet, rising star Amen Thompson, scoring machine Kevin Durant, versatile forward Jabari Smith Jr., and steadily improving center Alperen Şengün. Data shows that last season, when Dillon Brooks filled in for Durant, this lineup outscored opponents by 30.9 points per 130 possessions. With Durant now officially on board, Houston’s offensive stability is expected to improve dramatically, and Şengün’s progress in international play adds further promise. If the young players can improve perimeter shooting consistency, this revitalized Rockets squad could realistically contend for a championship.
Golden State Warriors: Talent but Aging Core
The Warriors’ expected starters are Stephen Curry, Andrew Wiggins, Jimmy Butler, Draymond Green, and newly signed Al Horford (yet to be officially confirmed). Despite boasting three All-Stars—Curry, Butler, and Green—the addition of only one key rotation player fails to fully address the team’s aging core. Potential stamina limitations and injury risks may cap Golden State’s ceiling this season, which explains the A- rating.
Los Angeles Lakers: Reliance on LeBron and Luka Limits Rating
The Lakers’ B rating reflects expert caution regarding their roster. The expected starters are Austin Reaves, Luka Doncic, Marcus Smart, LeBron James, and Deandre Ayton. The front office added only three new pieces—Lalavia, Ayton, and Smart—on short two-year deals to maintain salary flexibility. Analysts note that nearly 40-year-old LeBron faces significant physical demands, Ayton’s defensive efficiency has declined, and Smart may struggle to regain his peak defensive form, potentially opening the door for Rui Hachimura. These limitations directly impacted the final grade.
Los Angeles Clippers: Health Concerns Cloud Outlook
The Clippers also received a B rating, with a projected starting five of James Harden, Bradley Beal, Kawhi Leonard, John Collins, and Ivica Zubac. While Beal and Collins strengthen the secondary ball-handling and power forward positions, Leonard’s contract uncertainty and recurring health issues cast a shadow over the season. Experts agree that only with full-team health can this star-studded roster truly contend for a title.
Media Insights
ESPN praised the Rockets for constructing a balanced lineup through precise acquisitions, noting that Durant’s arrival significantly raises the team’s ceiling.
The Athletic expressed concerns for traditional powers: “The Warriors’ core is aging another year, and the Lakers rely heavily on the LeBron-Doncic duo, leaving little margin for error.”
FOX Sports highlighted the Clippers: “Off-court issues surrounding Leonard could affect locker room chemistry; even a strong roster needs health as a foundation.”
Other teams receiving high marks include the Cavaliers, Nuggets, Timberwolves, Knicks, and Thunder (all A), while the Grizzlies and Magic earned A-. Teams such as the Celtics and Mavericks were graded C. Overall, the new NBA season could see a significant shift in the league landscape, with younger, deeper rosters drawing the most analyst confidence.
