NBA Teams Prepare for Uncertain Offseasons: Nuggets, Rockets and Lakers Weigh Key Moves
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DENVER — The Nuggets know two things for certain after their first-round exit: three-time MVP Nikola Jokic will return, and assistant David Adelman is expected back on the bench. Beyond that, roster decisions remain wide open.
ESPN’s Tim MacMahon reported that Denver must strengthen its lineup to keep pace with rising Western Conference rivals San Antonio and Oklahoma City, yet the club has limited flexibility after shipping out multiple future first-round picks, including two owed to the Thunder. Despite the constraints, ESPN slotted the Nuggets at No. 6 in its way-too-early power rankings.
If restricted free agent Peyton Watson is re-signed, Denver is anticipated to shed salary by moving either Cameron Johnson or Christian Braun to reduce a growing luxury-tax bill, according to MacMahon.
Rockets Count on Healthier Year Two With Durant
HOUSTON — Kevin Durant’s inaugural season in Houston ended with the star forward sidelined by injuries during the playoffs, where the Rockets fell to the Lakers in the opening round. Team officials believe a healthier roster could quickly change their fortunes.
Young guards Amen Thompson and Reed Sheppard logged expanded minutes in Durant’s absence, while veteran point guard Fred VanVleet is expected back from a torn ACL. Center Steven Adams should also return to bolster rebounding and second-chance scoring. “Houston’s window for real contention hasn’t closed at all,” ESPN’s Michael C. Wright wrote in the network’s early power rankings, adding that a fully integrated Durant could widen that window next season.
Lakers Await Decisions on LeBron and Supporting Cast
LOS ANGELES — The Lakers may face the NBA’s most complicated offseason, beginning with LeBron James’ contract status. Uncertainty also surrounds Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura and Deandre Ayton.
Even so, ESPN placed Los Angeles ninth in its early rankings, pointing to Luka Doncic’s expected return after a hamstring injury kept him out of the 2026 postseason. “Doncic’s healthy presence alone gives L.A. a chance at more success next season,” ESPN’s Dave McMenamin wrote, noting that the franchise’s outlook will hinge on agreements with James and Reaves and how the rest of the roster is shaped around Doncic’s talents.
Source: Hoops Wire
