NBA Starting Lineups: Analyzing Early Season Performance

The first six minutes of an NBA game often set the tone for the rest of the 48, making a strong starting lineup crucial. As the 2025-26 season unfolds, we've taken a closer look at how each of the 30 NBA teams’ starting five has performed during the first three weeks. While injuries and load management have prompted frequent lineup changes, we assess which units are excelling—or struggling—in critical early-season matchups.

Atlanta Hawks:

Lineup: Dyson Daniels, Nickeil Alexander Walker, Zaccharie Risacher, Jalen Johnson, Kristaps PorzingisNet Rating: -5.4

This unit emerged without Trae Young, who is sidelined with a sprained MCL. Daniels has stepped up with impressive averages of 18.0 points, 5.0 assists, and 6.3 rebounds over three games but the team has struggled defensively and on the boards.

Boston Celtics:

Lineup: Payton Pritchard, Derrick White, Jaylen Brown, Josh Minott, Neemias QuetaNet Rating: +7.6

Despite low expectations, this lineup has performed admirably, showcasing strong defense. Though Pritchard and White struggle from three-point range, Brown's higher usage rate and Queta's defensive presence have contributed to a respectable start.

Brooklyn Nets:

Lineup: Egor Demin, Terance Mann, Michael Porter Jr., Noah Clowney, Nic ClaxtonNet Rating: -14.7

With injuries disrupting their plans, this lineup has faced a tough start. The Nets are struggling on defense and their offensive rating surpasses only a few disgruntled units.

Charlotte Hornets:

Lineup: LaMelo Ball, Collin Sexton, Kon Knueppel, Miles Bridges, Ryan KalkbrennerNet Rating: +0.3

In a limited sample size, this group has shown some hope, especially with Kalkbrenner's shot-blocking helping bolster the defense despite key absences due to injury.

Chicago Bulls:

Lineup: Josh Giddey, Tre Jones, Isaac Okoro, Matas Buzelis, Nikola VučevićNet Rating: -13.1

The Bulls began strongly but have struggled with their starters maintaining effective offense leading to lamentable performances.

Cleveland Cavaliers:

Lineup: Darius Garland, Donovan Mitchell, De'Andre Hunter, Evan Mobley, Jarrett AllenNet Rating: +51.1

When fully healthy, this preferred lineup provides two-way excellence. Once Garland returned, this unit recorded high ratings, showcasing their ability to create shots and defend the rim effectively.

Other Notable Teams:

The Denver Nuggets' lineup of Jamal Murray, Christian Braun, Cam Johnson, Aaron Gordon, and Nikola Jokić stands out with a +13.9 net rating, maintaining strong team synergy. Conversely, the LA Clippers with James Harden, Bradley Beal, Kawhi Leonard, and others grapple with an alarming -12.8 rating, necessitating immediate adjustments.

Throughout the league, ongoing changes reflect teams' strategies to optimize performances amid a host of injuries. As the Cavaliers and Celtics appear to thrive, teams like the Bulls and Grizzlies face challenges holding consistent lineups. Exciting developments are sure to unfold as the season continues.