Introduction

As the NBA prepares for the 2025-26 season, team identities and overall success are heavily tied to their starting five. With training camps just around the corner, fans are eager to see how the lineups will shape up for all 30 teams. Some teams have already solidified their strong cores while others face challenges and uncertainties. Here's a detailed look at the projected starting lineups across the league.

Key Insights for Each Team

Houston Rockets: With the addition of Kevin Durant, the Rockets boast a formidable starting five that enhances their title chances. Denver Nuggets: Cameron Johnson is expected to thrive alongside Nikola Jokić, bringing a solid offensive boost. Oklahoma City Thunder: The Thunder return all five starters from their championship team, making them a strong contender again.

Boston Celtics, Charlotte Hornets, Indiana Pacers: These teams have significant center issues that may impact their performance this season. Injuries: Teams like the Celtics, Pacers, Mavericks, and Pelicans are already dealing with injury concerns as the season approaches.

Projected Starting Lineups

• Brooklyn Nets: PG Egor Demin, SG Terance Mann, SF Michael Porter Jr., PF Noah Clowney, C Nic Claxton.
• Utah Jazz: PG Isaiah Collier, SG Walter Clayton Jr., SF Ace Bailey, PF Lauri Markkanen, C Walker Kessler.
• Washington Wizards: PG Bub Carrington, SG CJ McCollum, SF Khris Middleton, PF Bilal Coulibaly, C Alex Sarr.
• Chicago Bulls: PG Tre Jones, SG Coby White, SF Ayo Dosunmu, PF Matas Buzelis, C Nikola Vučević.
• New Orleans Pelicans: PG Jordan Poole, SG Herb Jones, SF Trey Murphy III, PF Zion Williamson, C Yves Missi.

Other notable lineups include:

• Philadelphia 76ers: PG Tyrese Maxey, SG Jared McCain, SF Paul George, PF Kelly Oubre Jr., C Joel Embiid.
• San Antonio Spurs: PG De'Aaron Fox, SG Stephon Castle, SF Devin Vassell, PF Harrison Barnes, C Victor Wembanyama.
• Atlanta Hawks: PG Trae Young, SG Dyson Daniels, SF Zaccharie Risacher, PF Jalen Johnson, C Kristaps Porziņģis.
• Golden State Warriors: PG Stephen Curry, SG Brandin Podziemski, SF Moses Moody, PF Jimmy Butler, C Draymond Green.
• Oklahoma City Thunder: PG Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, SG Lu Dort, SF Jalen Williams, PF Chet Holmgren, C Isaiah Hartenstein.

Conclusion

As teams finalize their starting lineups heading into the new season, varying levels of talent and challenges are evident across the board. Fans are eagerly awaiting the start of the season to see how these matchups play out and which teams will rise to the occasion.