NBA offseason is here, and it is certain that we are going to see some big changes in the basketball landscape as the sport moves towards 2023-24 season. From teams making internal changes to some major game shifting trades, thereโs a lot for fans to look forward to. Recent reports and rumors surrounding NBA offseason predictions and rumors are swirling.
Teams at the center of all the buzz include Toronto Raptors, Detroit Pistons, Milwaukee Bucks, Houston Rockets, Phoenix Suns, and Philadelphia 76ers. These teams have recently hired new coaches as well and are also most likely to make big adjustments to their roster. Which is natural given the changes in the internal system due to the dismissal of several NBA coaches last season.ย
Damian Lillard trade
Damian Lillard shocked the fans when he expressed his interest in the Brooklyn Nets and the Miami Heat in a recent interview. His statements have led to an array of speculations but a few still think he might stay with Portland Blazers. The 32-year-old Lillard has clearly expressed himself that he wants his way out. NBA insider Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports also noted that Deandre Ayton of the Suns could play a key role in making Lillardโs trade actually happen. Blazers have reportedly kept an eye on the 24-year-old Ayton in past. If Suns donโt trade for Lillard, we still have a couple contenders given the current situation. It will be interesting to see what path Portland takes.
Prediction: Lillard either lands in Phoenix Suns, Miami Heat or Brookyln Nets.
Lebron Jamesโ returns
LA Lakers superstar LeBron Jamesโ return next season is the hottest topic in the sport right now. Consequently, it is one of the highly betted subjects on popular NBA betting platforms. King James has one year left on his contract and despite his retirement rumors flying around, he is expected to play for the remainder of his contract with the Lakers. James has previously stated his wish to play, alongside his son, Bronny, in the NBA, so thatโs something to consider as well. With all this in mind, LeBronโs return is inevitable.
Prediction: Lebron James plays out his remaining contract with Lakers and later signs with the team that drafts Bronny in 2024
James Harden to become one of the biggest and most sought-after free agents in the NBA
James Harden is at the peak of his career and there is likely nothing left with him that can surprise fans in terms of performance. But again, anything can happen in the world of sports and we will have to find this out next season. He will be a free agent this summer with many prospects for him to choose from. According to Brian Windhorst of ESPN, there are potential teams in the NBA sniffing around to land Harden with a four-year contract thatโs worth well over $200 million.ย
Where the 33-year-old will eventually end up is still hotly discussed, but one thing is for sure, James is going to stuff his pockets. The Philadelphia 76ers and Houston Rockets are top contenders for James, and the only few NBA teams that can afford to pay that much money.
Prediction: Harden signs with Houston Rockets for a contract worth $200 million
Ja Morantโs expulsion
Ja Morant has been in hot water due to repeatedly violating NBAโs policies and moral guidelines. His viral Instagram Live video of flashing gun has got him suspended from team activities last month. There is also that incident of him at a night club for which he has previously received an eight-game suspension. It seems Morant just canโt control his impulses and as a consequence he is paying heavy prices.
It is expected that Memphis Grizzliesโ Ja Morant will face a lengthy suspension and will be charged a hefty fine when the verdict on his situation comes. NBA commissioner Adam Silver has stated that the league would announce its decision sometime after the finals. The future looks grim for Morant as the NBA tries to maintain its status quo.
Prediction: Ja Morant will face a major suspension with a big fine
Kyrie Irving could potentially get a max contract
Kyrie Irving is a valuable asset to the Dallas Mavericks and the team will try to keep him. In a sport full of uncertainty, this seems to be likely happening as no other team is will be looking to match the deal that Irving wants. Itโs no secret that Mavs are in a tough position with Jalen Brunson walking out just like that last year. This is all leads to the speculations that the 31-year-old guard will receive a four-year contract from Mavs, one that is worth as much as $200 million.
Prediction: Kyre Irving stays with The Dallas Mavericks by signing a four-year contract.
