NBA Midseason Review: Key Takeaways for All 30 Teams

Midseason Reflections: What We've Learned

With the NBA's 2025-26 season hitting its halfway point, we are witnessing drama unfold across the league. Every team has faced its challenges, highlighted by surprise contenders and trade talks swirling around marquee players. Let's dive into what we've learned from each of the 30 franchises as action heats up.

“This season has been full of unexpected twists and some familiar faces guiding the way.”

Atlanta Hawks

Lesson: The defensive concerns are critical, but don't overlook the impact of Trae Young's return from injuries. His absence severely diminished their offensive output.

Boston Celtics

Lesson: Neemias Queta has proven to be more than a backup; he's a starting-caliber center, elevating Boston's play amidst Jayson Tatum's absence.

Brooklyn Nets

Lesson: Michael Porter Jr. emerges as a key trade asset for Brooklyn, demonstrating efficient scoring which could attract contenders' interest.

Charlotte Hornets

Lesson: LaMelo Ball's impact is irrefutable; the Hornets' offense thrives more than six points per 100 possessions when he's on the court.

Chicago Bulls

Lesson: The Bulls remain in limbo, needing to either build around their existing talent or pivot to a rebuild as upcoming free agents loom.

Cleveland Cavaliers

Lesson: Darius Garland is the engine of Cleveland's success. His injury has dramatically affected their offensive ratings.

Dallas Mavericks

Lesson: Cooper Flagg's adjustment to his natural position has been fruitful, showcasing numbers that position him alongside league stars.

Denver Nuggets

Lesson: Peyton Watson has stepped up in Jokic's absence, emerging as a player worth watching as contract negotiations loom.

Detroit Pistons

Lesson: The Pistons are no longer an easy win; they rank impressively in offense and defense metrics, proving they are contenders.

Golden State Warriors

Lesson: De'Anthony Melton has stepped into an underrated role, crucial for the Warriors as they navigate Jimmy Butler's injury.

Houston Rockets

Lesson: Reed Sheppard has adapted, earning respect as he contributes significantly amidst shifting team dynamics.

Indiana Pacers

Lesson: Pacers are evaluating their future, positioning themselves for an advantageous draft pick while keeping an eye on the trade market.

LA Clippers

Lesson: Kawhi Leonard is excelling and quietly driving the Clippers in the scoring department despite external distractions.

Los Angeles Lakers

Lesson: Defensive struggles persist for the Lakers, indicating a pressing need for reinforcements before the playoffs.

Memphis Grizzlies

Lesson: Ja Morant's struggles might lead to a trade, showcasing the changing attitudes towards player evaluations based on their impact.

Miami Heat

Lesson: The adjustment to a new offense has stalled; with Tyler Herro's absence noticeable, Miami needs to find that spark again.

Milwaukee Bucks

Lesson: The reigning champs are not matching their previous success; a reevaluation of the roster may be necessary as their standings drop.

Minnesota Timberwolves

Lesson: Rudy Gobert is reminding everyone of his elite DPOY potential again; watch for his ongoing impact on defense.

New Orleans Pelicans

Lesson: Derik Queen is raising his profile amidst a disappointing season, providing a silver lining for the Pelicans.

New York Knicks

Lesson: With defensive woes still present, can the Knicks find a solution before the trade deadline to bolster their championship ambitions?

Oklahoma City Thunder

Lesson: Jalen Williams' need for health could be key to their championship push; his performance will significantly affect playoff seeding.

Orlando Magic

Lesson: Paolo Banchero's improved long-range shooting could be critical in ensuring the Magic remain competitive moving forward.

Philadelphia 76ers

Lesson: Rookie VJ Edgecombe's immediate impact has given Philadelphia's backcourt a bright future amid a competitive season.

Phoenix Suns

Lesson: Dillon Brooks is establishing himself as a culture setter, instilling a blend of grit and talent into a budding Suns roster.

Portland Trail Blazers

Lesson: Donovan Clingan's shooting evolution could transform his role; the Blazers need him to stretch defenses moving forward.

Sacramento Kings

Lesson: The Kings are at a crossroads; a lack of direction points toward rebuilding efforts as they look to the next draft.

San Antonio Spurs

Lesson: Victor Wembanyama shows flashes of brilliance but must work on consistently dominating games from within.

Toronto Raptors

Lesson: Collin Murray-Boyles is emerging as a defensive anchor; he could play a huge role in the Raptors' playoff push this season.

Utah Jazz

Lesson: Keyonte George's leap should not be overlooked; he's positioned himself as a critical part of Utah's future.

Washington Wizards

Lesson: A clearer vision is forming in Washington, with rookie Tre Johnson and the recent acquisition of Trae Young sparking optimism ahead.

Looking Ahead

As the league prepares for the upcoming trade deadline, the lessons learned thus far set the stage for impactful decisions. Teams must assess their identities, strengths, and weaknesses while considering how to approach the second half of the season.