The 2025 NBA offseason has brought big changes across the Eastern Conference. From blockbuster trades to key free-agent signings, teams are retooling and preparing for a new title run. Two franchises—the Cleveland Cavaliers and the New York Knicks—stand out above the rest, showing strong leadership and clear improvement during the summer.
Here’s a team-by-team breakdown of where all 15 Eastern Conference squads rank heading into the 2025-26 season.
1. Cleveland Cavaliers
The Cavs took a bold step forward this offseason. After re-signing Donovan Mitchell to a long-term deal, they also added key veteran shooters to complement their core. With Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen still in place, Cleveland looks deeper and more balanced than ever. Their mix of youth and experience could make them the team to beat in the East.
2. New York Knicks
The Knicks addressed their biggest need—scoring. They brought in a proven wing scorer through free agency while keeping their defensive identity intact. Jalen Brunson continues to lead, and the team’s bench is stronger than last season. New York looks poised for a deep playoff run.
3. Boston Celtics
Despite losing some depth, Boston retains Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, one of the best duos in the league. The Celtics also added a new defensive-minded big man, which could help them match up better with rival contenders. Still, the lack of scoring off the bench may cause problems in the long season ahead.
4. Milwaukee Bucks
With Giannis Antetokounmpo still in his prime, Milwaukee remains a dangerous team. However, age and health are growing concerns for key players like Khris Middleton and Brook Lopez. The Bucks added depth at guard, but they’ll need a healthy season to stay among the East’s elite.
5. Philadelphia 76ers
The Sixers retained Tyrese Maxey and made small but smart additions in the frontcourt. However, questions about Joel Embiid’s health and playoff reliability remain. If Embiid can stay on the floor, Philadelphia could outperform expectations—but it’s a big “if.”
6. Indiana Pacers
The Pacers made one of the sneakier moves of the offseason, adding a versatile forward who fits well alongside Tyrese Haliburton. Their young core continues to grow, and if everything clicks, they could be a serious threat in the playoffs.
7. Orlando Magic
With one of the youngest rosters in the league, Orlando stayed quiet this offseason. Still, they’re banking on internal development from Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner. Their progress could determine whether they take the next step or fall back into the play-in tier.
8. Miami Heat
The Heat missed out on big-name free agents and now face uncertainty around Jimmy Butler’s future. Erik Spoelstra’s system always keeps Miami competitive, but this might be a transitional season unless they make a major trade.
9. Chicago Bulls
Chicago remains in the middle. They held onto their core but failed to land a star. With DeMar DeRozan aging and Lonzo Ball still out, it’s unclear how they plan to leap forward in a competitive East.
10. Atlanta Hawks
After trading a major piece, the Hawks are clearly shifting focus. Trae Young is still the face of the franchise, but without consistent support, Atlanta might be on the outside looking in when the playoffs arrive.
11–15. Charlotte Hornets, Toronto Raptors, Brooklyn Nets, Washington Wizards, Detroit Pistons
These five teams are rebuilding or resetting. While some, like Charlotte and Toronto, have promising young talent, others are still years away from contending. Detroit and Washington remain at the bottom of the power rankings, focusing on draft picks and development.
Final Thoughts
The Eastern Conference is shaping up to be as competitive as ever. With Cleveland and New York making major leaps, the battle for supremacy is heating up. Veterans, rookies, and returning stars will all play a role in shaping how the 2025-26 season unfolds. For now, the Cavs and Knicks are the early favorites—but as every NBA fan knows, anything can happen when the games begin.
