NBA Watchability Rankings: The top 15
If expected success was the only reason to watch an NBA team, only a handful of squads would be popular views. In a highlight-heavy world like the Association, even long shots provide plenty of entertainment. With that in mind, here's how we rank how watchable all 30 teams are, culminating with the top 15. You can read our takes on the bottom 15 here.
15. Chicago Bulls
Chicago still boasts a handful of entertaining high-flyers, including Zach LaVine, DeMar DeRozan, Patrick Williams, Alex Caruso, and Derrick Jones Jr. If they can get Lonzo Ball healthy, they'll be fun to watch again.
14. Boston Celtics
The most intriguing thing to watch in Boston is whether and how Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown manage to elevate their games after coming so close to a championship. A veteran addition like Malcolm Brogdon should help in that regard.
13. Phoenix Suns
Phoenix's offense may not be the most visually appealing, despite its superb efficiency. Deandre Ayton is a throwback big man, but Chris Paul and Devin Booker do most of their scoring in the mid-range.
12. Atlanta Hawks
Atlanta's backcourt now features two of the Association's top playmakers. Trae Young and Dejounte Murray both thrive as pick-and-roll facilitators, which likely means more highlight-reel lobs for John Collins and Clint Capela.
11. Minnesota Timberwolves
Everyone is waiting to see how Rudy Gobert and Karl-Anthony Towns coexist in the same frontcourt. Regardless, Anthony Edwards' shot-making, athleticism, and on-court energy will continue to dazzle spectators.
10. Philadelphia 76ers
The Joel Embiid and James Harden pick-and-roll tandem was a delight to watch. A full season of that plus Tyrese Maxey's continued ascension and P.J. Tucker's defensive tenacity should keep fans tuned in.
9. Cleveland Cavaliers
Cleveland made a splash this summer by adding Donovan Mitchell to a young core that surprised many last season. With fan-favorite vets like Ricky Rubio, Kevin Love, and Robin Lopez, the Cavs will have plenty of eyes on them again.
8. Los Angeles Lakers
Will there be a dull moment in Hollywood this season? Sure, the Lakers have two of the game's elite talents, but watching longtime foes Patrick Beverley and Russell Westbrook share a backcourt will be equally entertaining.
7. Denver Nuggets
Reigning MVP Nikola Jokic seems to average at least one jaw-dropping assist a game, and now he's got his star partner back after Jamal Murray missed all of last season with a torn ACL.
6. Dallas Mavericks
Luka Doncic is worth the price of admission alone. He can make seemingly every pass in the book, back down smaller defenders in the post, and deliver when the game is on the line.
5. Golden State Warriors
What's not to love about the defending champs? You've got Klay Thompson's smooth shooting stroke, a microwave scorer in Jordan Poole, Jonathan Kuminga's athleticism, and, of course, Stephen Curry's ability to hit from anywhere on the floor.
4. Los Angeles Clippers
A healthy Kawhi Leonard and Paul George will always make the Clippers one of the more fascinating stories in the NBA. Add in a potential resurgence for John Wall and it'll be tempting to tune in.
3. New Orleans Pelicans
Zion Williamson looks as explosive as ever as he returns to a genuinely exciting and growing Pelicans squad. Expect them to attract significant attention this season.
2. Memphis Grizzlies
There are few players as electrifying as Ja Morant. His extraordinary leaping ability, blazing speed, and swagger are must-see television. Plus, Memphis boasts an exciting young core around him that's poised to take another step forward.
1. Brooklyn Nets
Endless drama envelops the stellar trio of Ben Simmons, Kyrie Irving, and Kevin Durant as everyone eagerly awaits what happens next in Brooklyn. Whether they fall in line or fall apart, it will be nearly impossible to take our eyes off the compelling Nets.