NBA Rebuild Rankings 2025: Which Teams Are Closest to Championship Glory?

As the 2025 NBA season approaches, the landscape of the league continues to shift. Teams that missed the playoffs last season are now in various stages of rebuilding, with some closer to championship contention than others. Here, we delve into the rebuild strategies of 14 teams, assessing their current talent, future potential, and the likelihood of becoming title contenders.

1. San Antonio Spurs

• Players under 25: 8
• Tradeable first-round picks: 3
• Players on rookie-scale contracts: 5

The Spurs have been the beneficiaries of incredible draft luck, landing Victor Wembanyama, Stephon Castle, and Dylan Harper in consecutive drafts. With the addition of De'Aaron Fox and Devin Vassell, the Spurs are poised to make a significant impact in the Western Conference.

2. Dallas Mavericks

• Players under 25: 6
• Tradeable first-round picks: 3
• Players on rookie-scale contracts: 2

Despite trading away Luka Doncic, the Mavericks secured the No. 1 pick and selected Cooper Flagg. With a mix of veteran talent and young prospects, Dallas has a tight contention window but faces risks due to injuries.

3. Atlanta Hawks

• Players under 25: 9
• Tradeable first-round picks: 4
• Players on rookie-scale contracts: 4

The Hawks have made significant moves this offseason, including drafting Zaccharie Risacher and acquiring Kristaps Porzingis. With a young core and valuable draft picks, Atlanta is a rising threat in the East.

4. Philadelphia 76ers

• Players under 25: 12
• Tradeable first-round picks: 3
• Players on rookie-scale contracts: 2

The 76ers' success hinges on Joel Embiid's health. With a strong supporting cast, Philadelphia remains a formidable team in the East, but Embiid's durability is a major concern.

5. Washington Wizards

• Players under 25: 12
• Tradeable first-round picks: 6
• Players on rookie-scale contracts: 10

The Wizards are in the midst of a deep rebuild, focusing on developing young talent and accumulating draft assets. While they lack a high-end player, their future is bright with multiple first-round picks.

6. Charlotte Hornets

• Players under 25: 12
• Tradeable first-round picks: 8
• Players on rookie-scale contracts: 7

The Hornets are in a transitional phase, balancing young prospects like Brandon Miller with veterans. Charlotte's rebuild depends on landing a franchise player in the draft.

7. Utah Jazz

• Players under 25: 12
• Tradeable first-round picks: 7
• Players on rookie-scale contracts: 8

Utah is leaning into its youth movement, led by Ace Bailey. With a strong front office and a focus on development, the Jazz are positioning themselves for future success.

8. Brooklyn Nets

• Players under 25: 12
• Tradeable first-round picks: 9
• Players on rookie-scale contracts: 7

The Nets are in a full rebuild after the Durant-Harden-Irving era. With multiple first-round picks and a focus on the future, Brooklyn is laying the groundwork for a return to contention.

9. Toronto Raptors

• Players under 25: 11
• Tradeable first-round picks: 4
• Players on rookie-scale contracts: 6

Toronto is building around Scottie Barnes and Brandon Ingram. With a mix of young talent and veteran leadership, the Raptors aim to return to the playoffs.

10. Portland Trail Blazers

• Players under 25: 9
• Tradeable first-round picks: 3
• Players on rookie-scale contracts: 4

Portland is balancing youth and experience, with Scoot Henderson and Shaedon Sharpe leading the way. The Blazers are focused on building a competitive team in the West.

11. Chicago Bulls

• Players under 25: 10
• Tradeable first-round picks: 5
• Players on rookie-scale contracts: 2

The Bulls are in need of a high-impact player to jumpstart their rebuild. With limited high-end talent, Chicago is focused on developing its young core.

12. Sacramento Kings

• Players under 25: 6
• Tradeable first-round picks: 6
• Players on rookie-scale contracts: 3

Sacramento is in a transitional phase, with a focus on remaining competitive while developing young talent. The Kings are aiming for a playoff spot in the West.

13. New Orleans Pelicans

• Players under 25: 10
• Tradeable first-round picks: 3
• Players on rookie-scale contracts: 4

The Pelicans are in a state of flux, with a mix of veteran talent and young prospects. New Orleans is focused on building a competitive team around Zion Williamson.

14. Phoenix Suns

• Players under 25: 8
• Tradeable first-round picks: 0
• Players on rookie-scale contracts: 3

The Suns are in a challenging position, with limited draft capital and cap space. Phoenix is focused on rebuilding around Devin Booker for future success.

Conclusion

The 2025 NBA season promises to be an exciting one, with several teams on the cusp of championship contention. While some teams are closer than others, the rebuild strategies employed by these 14 teams will shape the future of the league.