Mid-Season Grades For Every NBA Team In 2024-25

The NBA’s mid-season point offers a perfect snapshot of each team’s progress so far in 2024-25. With trades looming and playoff hopes rising or fading, this is the time for organizations to assess their strategies. Some squads are exceeding expectations with chemistry and growth, while others have major flaws and are disappointing despite having All-Star talent. Let’s dive into mid-season grades for every NBA franchise and see who’s thriving and who’s striving to find answers.

Atlanta Hawks: B-

Record: 22-20

Key Stats: PPG: 117.0, OPPG: 119.0, SRS: -2.16

The Hawks have hovered around .500, showcasing an explosive offense led by Trae Young (23.3 PPG, 11.7 APG) and the improved De’Andre Hunter, but their defensive issues persist. While Atlanta ranks 7th in scoring (117.0 PPG), their 119.0 OPPG highlights their inability to lock down opponents, often leading to inconsistent results. The supporting cast, including Hunter (19.4 PPG) and Dyson Daniels (13.2 PPG, league-leading 3.1 SPG), has been solid and we did not expect such improvement from them.

Despite their flaws, the Hawks are firmly in the playoff mix in the East and have shown flashes of brilliance against top-tier opponents. The coaching staff will need to address defensive schemes and rebounding woes to ensure a stronger second half. With trade rumors circulating, Atlanta may look to add depth or a versatile defender to shore up their postseason aspirations.

Boston Celtics: A+

Record: 30-13

Key Stats: 117.7 PPG, 108.1 OPPG, 8.76 SRS

The Celtics continue to solidify their status as the Eastern Conference's powerhouse alongside the Cavaliers. Jayson Tatum is playing at an MVP level (27.5 PPG), contributing elite scoring and defense nightly, while Jaylen Brown provides consistent All-Star production (23.1 PPG, 6.0 RPG). The presence of the other All-Stars including Jrue Holiday and the Sixth Man of the Year candidate Payton Pritchard (14.6 PPG) is giving Boston a well-rounded roster.

Boston’s defense is among the league’s best, allowing only 108.1 points per game, and their offense has been equally impressive, ranking near the top in efficiency. With a strong core and depth, the Celtics are legitimate championship contenders, but staying healthy for the postseason will be critical.

Brooklyn Nets: D

Record: 14-29

Key Stats: 106.6 PPG, 114.0 OPPG, -6.67 SRS

Brooklyn’s post-superstar rebuild has been rocky. Cam Thomas’ offensive bursts are exciting (24.7 PPG over 19 games) but not enough to overcome a lack of defensive intensity and rebounding issues. It seems the Nets have taken on the rebuild after trading Dennis Schroder and there could be more to come with regards to roster moves.

Still, the Nets' inability to generate offense consistently (106.6 PPG) has been their Achilles' heel. Defensively, they’ve struggled to contain opponents, resulting in frequent blowouts. While the development of their young talent is a priority, Brooklyn looks far from playoff contention this season.

Charlotte Hornets: D+

Record: 11-28

Key Stats: 107.1 PPG, 112.5 OPPG, -5.22 SRS

The Hornets have endured another disappointing season despite the pure brilliance of All-Star LaMelo Ball (29.3 PPG, 7.6 APG). When healthy, Ball has shown elite playmaking and shooting ability, but he isn’t getting enough help. Brandon Miller has been promising, but Charlotte’s lack of defensive discipline and bench production has cost them games.

The team’s offensive struggles (107.1 PPG) and lack of reliable interior defense have led to one of the worst records in the league. Charlotte is in dire need of roster upgrades if they hope to escape the bottom tier of the Eastern Conference in the coming years.

Chicago Bulls: C-

Record: 19-25

Key Stats: 117.1 PPG, 120.0 OPPG, -3.14 SRS

The Bulls remain stuck in mediocrity, unable to capitalize on the talent of their core players. Zach LaVine and Nikola Vucevic continue to post solid scoring numbers, but their defensive deficiencies have been glaring. Chicago’s lack of perimeter defense (since losing Alex Caruso and DeMar DeRozan) and ball movement hampers their effectiveness.

Their 120.0 OPPG ranks among the worst in the league, and it’s clear that roster adjustments are necessary. Without significant improvement or a bold move at the trade deadline, the Bulls risk staying in no-man’s land—neither contending nor rebuilding. It will be obvious the Bulls are committed to rebuilding as soon as they move LaVine and Vucevic and start focusing on how Josh Giddey, Patrick Williams, and others can perform.

Cleveland Cavaliers: A+

Record: 36-6

Key Stats: 122.0 PPG, 111.6 OPPG, 8.93 SRS

The Cavaliers have been dominant, boasting the best record in the league. Led by Donovan Mitchell’s leadership (23.3 PPG) and Darius Garland’s playmaking (6.8 APG), Cleveland’s offense has been explosive, leading the league with 122.0 points per game. Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen anchor one of the most formidable defenses, making the Cavs a balanced and dangerous team.

With a deep roster and excellent team chemistry, Cleveland is poised for a deep playoff run. Their dominance on both ends of the floor makes them the team to beat in the East, and their 36-6 record is a testament to their consistency. Let’s see if they can truly challenge the Celtics come playoff time but for now, they get an A+.

Dallas Mavericks: B-

Record: 23-20

Key Stats: 115.2 PPG, 111.8 OPPG, 3.51 SRS

The Mavericks are enjoying a solid season but they have fallen slowly without the presence of Luka Doncic who has missed significant time. Before his injury, Doncic was putting up MVP-level numbers. Kyrie Irving has been a dynamic secondary option, but the team’s defensive inconsistencies have limited their ceiling.

Dallas’s offense is elite, but their defense remains a concern, particularly against bigger teams. As soon as Doncic returns, the Mavericks are a playoff-caliber team that could make noise if their supporting cast (including Klay Thompson) steps up. Considering the Mavericks were strong before Doncic’s injury, they get a B- for now.

Denver Nuggets: A-

Record: 26-16

Key Stats: 120.1 PPG, 115.5 OPPG, 4.96 SRS

The Denver Nuggets are having another strong season, with Nikola Jokic maintaining his status as one of the contenders for MVP (30.1 PPG, 13.2 RPG, 9.9 APG). His near-triple-double averages and efficient play have kept Denver competitive despite inconsistencies from Jamal Murray. Aaron Gordon, Michael Porter Jr., and Russell Westbrook have stepped up instead, providing scoring and defense.

Denver’s offense remains elite, ranking among the league leaders in points per game. However, defensive lapses and a lack of bench depth have led to some unexpected losses. The Nuggets remain a top-tier team, but they’ll need to tighten up defensively to secure home-court advantage in the playoffs.

Detroit Pistons: B-

Record: 22-21

Key Stats: 112.2 PPG, 113.1 OPPG, -1.25 SRS

The Pistons have been one of the most pleasant surprises of the season. With Cade Cunningham leading the charge (24.5 PPG, 6.5 RPG, 9.3 APG), Detroit has leaned on his scoring and playmaking to fuel a competitive campaign. The development of Jalen Duren as a defensive anchor and the consistency of Ausar Thompson has set a strong foundation for the future.

However, the team still struggles to close out games against elite opponents due to defensive lapses. With a slightly negative SRS and mediocre efficiency on both ends, Detroit must focus on late-game execution to maintain playoff contention.

Golden State Warriors: C

Record: 21-21

Key Stats: 110.8 PPG, 111.2 OPPG, 0.69 SRS

The Warriors are treading water midway through the season, held afloat by Stephen Curry’s brilliance. Despite Curry’s solid coring (22.9 PPG), their offense has lacked consistency, with Andrew Wiggins showing significant regression since the 2021-22 season. Draymond Green remains a defensive savant, but his offensive limitations hinder the team’s ceiling.

Defensive cohesion has taken a hit without the depth and energy provided by younger role players. At .500, the Warriors look like a team in need of a spark—perhaps a trade or internal development—to break out of mediocrity. So far, it hasn’t been great for the Warriors.

Houston Rockets: A

Record: 28-14

Key Stats: 113.8 PPG, 107.8 OPPG, 6.28 SRS

The Rockets have taken a massive leap under Ime Udoka’s coaching. Led by Jalen Green’s scoring (21.5 PPG) and Alperen Sengun’s all-around brilliance (19.2 PPG, 10.5 RPG), Houston boasts one of the best defensive ratings in the league. The presence of veterans like Fred VanVleet and Dillon Brooks is bringing toughness and leadership while Amen Thompson is playing like a defensive star.

Still, the offense can stagnate in the half-court, particularly against top-tier defenses. If Green continues to evolve into a reliable closer, the Rockets could emerge as a dark horse in the West and nobody expected them to be the second seed, so they get an A.

Indiana Pacers: B

Record: 24-19

Key Stats: 115.2 PPG, 114.6 OPPG, 0.26 SRS

The Pacers have overcome a slow start to become one of the most entertaining teams in the league again, thanks to Tyrese Haliburton, Pascal Siakam, and Bennedict Mathurin’s play. They don’t get higher than a B, however, because of the expectations that came with making the Eastern Conference Finals last year.

Not to mention, the Pacers’ defensive inconsistency has kept them from climbing higher in the standings. Addressing those issues, especially in transition, will be crucial for sustained success but they could be on the right track towards success.

Los Angeles Clippers: B+

Record: 24-18

Key Stats: 109.5 PPG, 106.6 OPPG, 3.33 SRS

The Clippers have quietly performed well, despite injury concerns surrounding Kawhi Leonard who has only played five games so far. James Harden (21.3 PPG, 8.1 APG), Norman Powell (23.7 PPG), and Ivica Zubac (15.0 PPG, 12.7 RPG) have led the way and the Clippers are doing great when it comes to defeating teams they have more talent than.

However, depth and availability remain concerns, with inconsistent bench contributions and a taxing load on the stars. If Leonard can stay healthy, the Clippers could make a legitimate playoff run but for now, they get a B+ considering the best player has not been available for many reasons.

Los Angeles Lakers: B-

Record: 22-18

Key Stats: 111.2 PPG, 113.9 OPPG, -2.38 SRS

The Lakers have been uneven but remain in the playoff hunt thanks to LeBron James’ ageless brilliance and Anthony Davis’ raw superstar presence. LeBron, averaging 23.8 PPG with nearly 9 APG, has been the team’s anchor on both ends. Anthony Davis continues to provide elite interior defense and is dominating the offensive end as well, posting 25.6 points, 11.8 rebounds, and 2.2 blocks per game.

The supporting cast has been hit-or-miss, with only Austin Reaves proving to be an untouchable figure in JJ Redick’s rotation (18.4 PPG). To contend in the West, the Lakers will need to address their three-point shooting woes and reduce their reliance on LeBron and Davis’ heroics. Otherwise, Lakers fans could expect more frustration from their side.

Memphis Grizzlies: A

Record: 28-15

Key Stats: 123.1 PPG, 114.9 OPPG, 7.13 SRS

Ja Morant is back, posting 21.3 points and 7.5 assists per game, and the Grizzlies have soared into contention with a potent offense. Jaren Jackson Jr. has emerged as a dominant two-way force, while Desmond Bane’s scoring and playmaking have hit new heights. It is great to see rookies Jaylen Wells and Zach Edey also contributing at a high level.

Defensively, Memphis has room for improvement, especially in transition and against elite wings. Still, with their firepower and depth, they’re poised to make noise in the playoffs and we expect the Grizzlies to be a force to contend with in the second half of the season.

Miami Heat: C+

Record: 21-20

Key Stats: 111.2 PPG, 110.0 OPPG, 0.52 SRS

The Heat have been underwhelming for much of the season, struggling to replicate the magic of past seasons. Jimmy Butler wants to be out of Miami as soon as possible, and that has been a cloud for the franchise all season long. Regardless, Bam Adebayo continues to anchor the defense, and Tyler Herro’s breakout season has helped inject life into their offense.

However, Miami’s lack of depth and poor perimeter shooting have held them back. To avoid a late-season slump, they’ll need to find consistent production from their bench and immediately find a trade suitor for Butler. The Heat still get credit for remaining in the playoff hunt with their best player causing a problem within the team.

Milwaukee Bucks: B

Record: 24-17

Key Stats: 114.0 PPG, 111.1 OPPG, 1.85 SRS

The Bucks’ season has been defined by highs and lows. They started poorly but have come back to playoff contention thanks to Giannis Antetokounmpo’s MVP play (31.5 PPG, 12.0 RPG, 6.0 APG). Lillard’s dynamic scoring has been critical to Milwaukee’s offense as well, but his defensive limitations have created challenges.

The supporting cast has been inconsistent, with Khris Middleton struggling to stay healthy and the likes of Brook Lopez showing some age. If the Bucks can tighten up defensively and get back on track, they’ll remain a top contender in the East but they can’t get higher than a B considering the expectations around them.

Minnesota Timberwolves: C

Record: 22-21

Key Stats: 110.0 PPG, 108.0 OPPG, 2.55 SRS

The Timberwolves have been competitive, thanks to Anthony Edwards’ ascent into superstardom, but nowhere near good enough. After making the Western Conference Finals last year, the Timberwolves have struggled for most of the season without Karl-Anthony Towns, a star for the Knicks right now.

Offensive stagnation and inconsistent bench play have been recurring issues and they are above .500 thanks to the brilliance of Edwards and the steady presence of Julius Randle. If the Wolves can find reliable secondary scoring, they could solidify their position in the playoff picture but so far, they have been extremely disappointing.

New Orleans Pelicans: F

Record: 12-32

Key Stats: 109.2 PPG, 117.2 OPPG, -7.71 SRS

Injuries and inconsistency have derailed the Pelicans’ season. Zion Williamson continues to miss time and apparently wants to leave the franchise, while Brandon Ingram has struggled to stay efficient. Without their stars, the Pelicans have relied heavily on CJ McCollum, whose efforts alone haven’t been enough. No doubt, the Pelicans have been awful all year.

Defensively, New Orleans has been one of the league’s worst teams, with no reliable rim protection or perimeter defense. Unless they can get healthy and address their defensive woes, this season looks like a lost cause which is why the Pelicans might be on track to proceed with a fire sale.

New York Knicks: A-

Record: 28-16

Key Stats: 117.0 PPG, 111.0 OPPG, 4.48 SRS

The Knicks are major title contenders this season after acquiring Karl-Antony Towns and their 28-16 record proves that. Jalen Brunson has solidified his place as one of the league’s top point guards, but Towns has been spectacular. The big man is averaging 25.1 points and 13.8 rebounds per game while shooting a scintillating 44.0% from three.

Defensively, the Knicks have also been solid, anchored by a team effort headlined by OG Anunoby. With depth across their roster and a disciplined system under Tom Thibodeau, the Knicks are on track for a strong playoff run but they need to sort out their lapses against the NBA’s top teams to get a higher grade.

Oklahoma City Thunder: A+

Record: 35-7

Key Stats: 116.4 PPG, 103.6 OPPG, 12.84 SRS

The Thunder have taken the league by storm, led by prime MVP candidate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (31.5 PPG, 5.3 RPG, 6.1 APG). SGA’s all-around brilliance—scoring, facilitating, and defending—has elevated Oklahoma City to the top of the Western Conference and it is well deserved. No team has been better than the Thunder this season overall, outside of the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Defensively, OKC boasts one of the stingiest units in the league, combining length, athleticism, and effort. With a deep, young roster and elite coaching from Mark Daigneault, the Thunder are a legitimate title contender and don’t be surprised if they ride this wave en route to 68 wins at least.

Orlando Magic: B

Record: 23-21

Key Stats: 104.2 PPG, 104.3 OPPG, -0.18 SRS

The Magic have exceeded expectations, particularly when Franz Wagner (24.4 PPG, 5.7 APG) and Paolo Banchero (25.2 PPG, 7.5 RPG) have missed time with injuries. Jamahl Mosley has the Magic competing hard every night and they should not be above .500 with their stars missing time.

Defensively, the Magic have been solid thanks to their excellent teamwork. While they still lack offensive firepower without both their stars being healthy, their youth and cohesion make them a team to watch as the season progresses.

Philadelphia 76ers: D-

Record: 15-26

Key Stats: 107.5 PPG, 111.6 OPPG, -4.27 SRS

The Philadelphia 76ers are in a state of disarray, struggling to find consistency amid roster turnover and injuries. Joel Embiid and Paul George, to no one’s surprise, have been very disappointed with their inability to stay on the court. Embiid only has 13 appearances this season while George, the major free agent signing, has only played 27 games.

Tyrese Maxey has had a strong season individually but hasn’t been able to lift the team’s overall performance. It is rather unfair for Maxey to have to carry the expectations of the Sixers fanbase but he has done his best so far. We can’t knock the Sixers that much if they can’t stay healthy, but their record means they need to get a D- grade.

Phoenix Suns: C-

Record: 21-21

Key Stats: 112.7 PPG, 114.4 OPPG, -2.39 SRS

The Phoenix Suns have been underwhelming given their star power, struggling to stay above .500. Devin Booker (25.5 PPG) and Kevin Durant (27.3 PPG) have been great individually, but they aren’t showing enough leadership to guide the team to a better record. The Suns lack size and defensive presence, but that isn’t an excuse for being average at best.

Booker and Durant are good enough to make the team a top-four seed in the West, but that hasn’t happened. The Suns have been inconsistent defensively, particularly in transition. If the Suns can add Jimmy Butler, that might fix the season, but they have underwhelmed and that is indisputable.

Portland Trail Blazers: D

Record: 14-28

Key Stats: 107.9 PPG, 116.7 OPPG, -8.18 SRS

The Trail Blazers are in a rebuilding phase, leaning heavily on young players like Scoot Henderson and Shaedon Sharpe. While Henderson has shown promise as a playmaker, his shooting struggles have limited his impact.

Defensively, Portland has been among the league’s worst, with little resistance on the perimeter or in the paint. This season is more about player development than wins, and the Blazers will need to stay patient as they rebuild. Perhaps the first step for them is to trade Deandre Ayton, a player who is not cutting it as a franchise cornerstone.

Sacramento Kings: C+

Record: 22-20

Key Stats: 116.7 PPG, 113.9 OPPG, 2.06 SRS

The Sacramento Kings have become one of the most entertaining teams in the league, thanks to their high-octane offense since Doug Christie has taken over as head coach. With Mike Brown, the Kings were not playing well and vastly underperformed considering their talent. Luckily, De’Aaron Fox continues to shine as a dynamic scorer and playmaker (25.9 PPG, 6.3 APG), while Domantas Sabonis anchors the paint with his rebounding and facilitating (20.8 PPG, 14.2 RPG).

However, Sacramento’s defense remains a glaring weakness, preventing them from ascending to the upper echelon of the West. If the Kings can address their defensive issues, they could be a dangerous playoff opponent although they have finally found a happy balance with DeMar DeRozan getting back to his usual form.

San Antonio Spurs: C

Record: 19-22

Key Stats: 111.6 PPG, 113.0 OPPG, -1.33 SRS

The Spurs are navigating a season of growth, anchored by the remarkable presence of superstar and leading DPOY candidate Victor Wembanyama. Wemby’s impact on both ends of the floor has been historic, with his shot-blocking (4.0 BPG) and ability to stretch the floor offensively standing out. However, the rest of the roster is young and inconsistent, which has led to mixed results.

Defensively, the Spurs have struggled against more experienced teams, often giving up big runs. While their record reflects growing pains, San Antonio is laying the foundation for a bright future, with Wembanyama at the center of it all. Amazingly, the Spurs are close to a play-in spot so they could get a higher grade in the second half of the season.

Toronto Raptors: D-

Record: 10-32

Key Stats: 111.0 PPG, 118.5 OPPG, -5.58 SRS

The Raptors are enduring a difficult season, plagued by inefficient offense and porous defense. Scottie Barnes has shown flashes of his potential, but consistency remains an issue for him and the rest of the roster. No doubt, Barnes is not getting enough help on either end of the court in terms of impact.

Toronto’s defensive struggles, particularly in transition, have made it hard to compete. With trade rumors swirling around key players, the Raptors might be looking at a full-scale rebuild soon. Perhaps RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley are not good enough to be the second and third options.

Utah Jazz: D-

Record: 10-31

Key Stats: 111.4 PPG, 118.2 OPPG, -6.73 SRS

The Jazz are having a disappointing season after overachieving last year. Lauri Markkanen remains a bright spot but his numbers have been down. Not to mention, the supporting cast has regressed, and Utah’s lack of a reliable point guard has hurt their offense.

Defensively, the Jazz have struggled mightily, with opponents regularly exploiting their lack of rim protection. While they have some intriguing young talent, Utah appears to be headed for a high lottery pick as they focus on rebuilding with a chance to get Cooper Flagg.

Washington Wizards: F

Record: 6-35

Key Stats: 108.6 PPG, 122.8 OPPG, -12.00 SRS

The Wizards are the league’s worst team, with a record that reflects their lack of competitiveness. Jordan Poole was expected to take a leap as the team’s focal point, but his inefficiency and defensive lapses have been glaring. Kyle Kuzma has provided steady scoring, but the roster lacks cohesion and defensive effort.

Washington’s defense has been historically bad, allowing the highest points per game in the league. With little hope of turning things around this season, the Wizards are firmly in tank mode, eyeing the top pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. 

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