On August 15th, renowned journalist David Aldridge wrote an article discussing the moves made by NBA teams during the offseason and compiled a ranking.
As for his basis for the ranking, Aldridge explains in the article:
“This is not based on scientific judgment but rather a very subjective assessment of my own. This ranking is based on the moves each team has made, my instincts, and my understanding of the situation.
This list is not a measure of team strength. For example, I’m not saying that the Spurs’ on-court performance is better than that of the Timberwolves, but based on the moves made this offseason, I believe the Spurs have transformed themselves more impactfully than the Timberwolves, which is why I ranked the Spurs ahead of the Timberwolves. However, every year when I publish this list, there are always comments like, ‘The Spurs are stronger than the Timberwolves? You moron!’
Every year I say,
if your favorite team is in the top ten, it doesn’t mean I like your team.
If your favorite team is in the bottom ten, it doesn’t mean I dislike your team.
Therefore, this list is just about one question: has the team improved after the offseason? Once we understand this, let’s get to the ranking!”
The specific ranking is as follows: 1. Thunder 2. 76ers 3. Magic 4. Knicks 5. Celtics 6. Kings 7. Nets 8. Cavaliers 9. Spurs 10. Mavericks 11. Jazz 12. Pelicans 13. Timberwolves 14. Pacers 15. Wizards 16. Bulls 17. Rockets 18. Bucks 19. Pistons 20. Warriors 21. Suns 22. Heat 23. Hornets 24. Lakers 25. Hawks 26. Raptors 27. Clippers 28. Nuggets 29. Trail Blazers 30. Grizzlies