The NBA preseason is always an exciting time as fans and analysts get their first look at the new dynamics of each team. With fresh talent, significant trades, and rising stars, the 2024 preseason is packed with storylines. Teams like the Atlanta Hawks, Boston Celtics, Brooklyn Nets, and others have made key moves, both in re-signings and roster changes, which will undoubtedly impact their seasons. This article dives into the standout players and notable roster changes for several NBA teams, focusing on the rising stars and fresh additions who will shape the upcoming season.
Atlanta Hawks: Key Re-signings and New Additions
The Atlanta Hawks made significant moves during the offseason, both retaining crucial talent and acquiring new players to strengthen their roster. These decisions are poised to influence their performance throughout the season, making them a team to watch in the preseason.
The Hawks retained Vit Krejci on a multi-year deal, officially announced by the team. Krejci, known for his versatility and playmaking abilities, will continue to be a key part of Atlanta’s lineup. His return solidifies the Hawks’ bench strength, ensuring they have depth in both guard and forward positions.
Dominick Barlow agreed to a 2-way deal with the Hawks, another official announcement by the team. Barlow’s potential as a developing talent will be closely watched during the preseason. With the flexibility of a 2-way contract, Barlow can split his time between the NBA and the G League, allowing him to grow within Atlanta’s system.
The Hawks bolstered their roster through a major trade with the New Orleans Pelicans, acquiring Dyson Daniels and Larry Nance Jr. Daniels, known for his defense and playmaking, and Nance Jr., a veteran forward with versatile skills, will add significant value to Atlanta’s frontcourt. Both players are expected to contribute immediately, making the preseason a crucial period to observe their integration into the team.
In another big move, the Hawks acquired David Roddy via trade with the Phoenix Suns and Cody Zeller via trade with the Pelicans. Roddy, a versatile forward, brings physicality and shooting, while Zeller offers experience and size at the center position. Both players will play critical roles, especially in the Hawks’ second unit, and will be pivotal in the upcoming season.
Departures from the Hawks
While Atlanta made several key additions, they also saw the departure of important players, which will change the team’s dynamics moving forward.
Saddiq Bey, one of the Hawks’ standout forwards, departed in free agency. His move leaves a void in Atlanta’s front court, particularly in terms of his scoring and defensive contributions. The Hawks will need to compensate for his absence with the new additions and internal development of players like Roddy.
The team officially waived Bruno Fernando, a young center who provided energy and rebounding in limited minutes. His departure means Atlanta will look to veterans like Cody Zeller to step up and fill the role left by Fernando.
AJ Griffin and EJ Liddell were traded, with Griffin heading to the Houston Rockets and Liddell to the Phoenix Suns. Griffin’s potential as a young wing with shooting ability will be missed, while Liddell’s departure reduces the Hawks’ forward depth. Both players are rising stars and it will be interesting to watch their new teams.
Dejounte Murray, a key piece of Atlanta’s backcourt, was traded to the Pelicans. This move marks a significant shift for the Hawks, as Murray was a core part of their perimeter defense and playmaking. His absence will result in a larger role for the team’s new acquisitions and returning players.
Boston Celtics: Key Moves to Watch
The Boston Celtics made several important moves this offseason, re-signing critical players and adding fresh faces to their roster.
Jayson Tatum, the face of the Celtics franchise, agreed to a 5-year max extension, a massive move that secures Boston’s future around one of the league’s top stars. Alongside him, Derrick White, a crucial backcourt player, signed a 4-year extension, officially announced. Both re-signings are significant in maintaining the Celtics’ competitive edge.
Boston added Lonny Walker IV on a 1-year deal, strengthening their bench. Walker’s athleticism and scoring ability will be vital during the preseason as the Celtics look to integrate him into their rotation. His performance will be crucial, especially with Boston’s focus on deep postseason runs.
The departure of Svi Mykhailiuk to the Utah Jazz in free agency was officially announced. Mykhailiuk’s shooting provided a valuable option off the bench, and the Celtics will need to find a way to replace his long-range scoring.
Brooklyn Nets: Notable Transactions
The Brooklyn Nets underwent several changes during the offseason, with re-signings and trades shaking up their roster ahead of the preseason.
Nic Claxton, a key piece in Brooklyn’s frontcourt, re-signed with the team, officially announced by the organization. His shot-blocking and defensive presence will continue to anchor the Nets’ defense, making him a player to watch during the preseason.
The Nets acquired Bojan Bogdanovic via trade with the New York Knicks. His scoring ability and veteran experience will be pivotal for Brooklyn’s offensive schemes, particularly in providing shooting and spacing alongside star players.
Mikal Bridges was traded to the Knicks, a significant move that impacts the Nets’ defense. Bridges’ elite perimeter defense and scoring versatility will be missed, but Brooklyn’s new additions, including Bogdanovic and Ziaire Williams, aim to fill the gap.
Charlotte Hornets: Rebuilding Efforts
The Charlotte Hornets are focusing on a mix of re-signings and new additions to build a more competitive roster for the upcoming season.
Miles Bridges returned to the Hornets on a 3-year deal, officially announced. Bridges’ athleticism and scoring will be key as Charlotte looks to make a deeper push into the playoffs.
The Hornets added Josh Green via trade with the Mavericks and Anton Watson on a 2-way deal. Both players bring fresh energy to the team, with Green’s defense and Watson’s versatility expected to make an impact during the preseason.
JT Thor’s departure to the Cleveland Cavaliers and Reggie Jackson’s waiver were officially announced, creating gaps in Charlotte’s rotation. However, their recent acquisitions and returning players will be relied upon to step up.
Chicago Bulls: Reshuffling for Success
The Chicago Bulls have been busy in the offseason, making several moves to reposition their team for success.
Patrick Williams, one of the Bulls’ promising young forwards, returned on a 5-year deal, a key move that keeps Chicago’s core intact. Williams’ development as a two-way player will be central to the Bulls’ aspirations this season.
DeMar DeRozan, traded to the Sacramento Kings, and Alex Caruso, traded to the Thunder, both left the Bulls in officially announced deals. Their departures mark a shift in Chicago’s strategy, as the team looks to develop younger talent and integrate new additions.
NBA Picks: Impact on Preseason Analysis
As the preseason unfolds, teams like the Hawks, Celtics, and Bulls will be closely monitored for how their roster changes impact their play. The NBA picks made for each team will give analysts and fans insight into who is likely to succeed in the upcoming regular season. With a mix of returning stars and new talent, this preseason is filled with opportunities for players to stand out and earn critical roles.
The NBA preseason is always filled with potential, and the moves made by the Hawks, Celtics, and other teams are setting the stage for an exciting season ahead. With key players re-signing, impactful additions, and notable departures, the preseason is sure to provide plenty of storylines. Keep an eye on the rising stars and new faces who could shape the future of their franchises.
