Predicting Every NBA Team's Starting Lineup and Top Reserve This Season

NBA training camps open everywhere over the next week, with plenty of players looking to secure their spots in opening lineups.

With so many big names changing teams this offseason (Donovan Mitchell, Dejounte Murray, Rudy Gobert, Jalen Brunson, Christian Wood, Collin Sexton, Jerami Grant, etc.), we could see a lot of shake-ups in a number of franchises' starting fives.

While a lot of these names haven't been chiseled in stone just yet, here's how all 30 teams' starting lineups project to look, including the leading candidate for sixth man.

Note: New additions to the team will be italicized.

Atlanta Hawks

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ATLANTA, GA - JULY 1: Dejounte Murray poses for a portrait after the introductory draft press conference on July 1, 2022 at State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2022 NBAE (Photo by Adam Hagy/NBAE via Getty Images)

Projected Starting Lineup:

PG: Trae Young

SG: Dejounte Murray

SF: De'Andre Hunter

PF: John Collins

C: Clint Capela

Sixth Man: Bogdan Bogdanović

This is one of the most improved lineups in all of basketball, simply by adding Murray to a backcourt that already features one of the game's greatest offensive threats.

One of the best point-of-attack defenders in the league, Murray also provides Atlanta with a secondary creator, one who finished fourth overall in assists per game (9.2) and fifth in assist percentage (40.6 percent).

If Hunter can put together a healthy season, he's a big wing who can hit shots and defend at a high level. His next contract will depend on all three.

A frontcourt of Collins and Capela will be terrific pick-and-roll partners for both Young and Murray, although we'll see how long Collins is satisfied in an offensive role that should be reduced even more now with Murray on board.

After being a part-time starter for the past five years, Bogdanović could thrive now in a dedicated sixth man role with both his scoring and playmaking ability.

Boston Celtics

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BOSTON, MA - DECEMBER 13: Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics, Marcus Smart #36 of the Boston Celtics, and Jaylen Brown #7 of the Boston Celtics celebrate against the Milwaukee Bucks on December 13, 2021 at the TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2021 NBAE (Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images)

Projected Starting Lineup:

PG: Marcus Smart

SG: Jaylen Brown

SF: Jayson Tatum

PF: Al Horford

C: Robert Williams III

Sixth Man: Malcolm Brogdon

The defending Eastern Conference champs bring back a highly successful starting five while also adding Brogdon via trade from the Indiana Pacers, someone who should immediately be a Sixth Man of the Year candidate.

Only three five-man combos in the entire NBA spent more time together than this starting five, as the Celtics posted a jaw-dropping plus-24.3 net rating in 907 total possessions, per Cleaning the Glass.

Boston also has a ton of flexibility if the 36-year-old Horford starts to slip, either by swapping in Grant Williams at power forward or going small with Brogdon, Smart, Brown, Tatum and Williams.

For now, there's no reason to change what was the second-most successful starting unit in the NBA last season.

Brooklyn Nets

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NEW YORK, NEW YORK - APRIL 07: Kevin Durant #7 of the Brooklyn Nets celebrates with teammates Joe Harris #12,Nicolas Claxton #33 and Kyrie Irving #11 of the Brooklyn Nets after Durant drew the foul in the second quarter against the New Orleans Pelicans at Barclays Center on April 07, 2021 in New York City.NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)

Projected Starting Lineup:

PG: Kyrie Irving

SG: Seth Curry

SF: Kevin Durant

PF: Ben Simmons

C: Nic Claxton

Sixth Man: Joe Harris

Positions mean little to this Nets group, who could end up starting Simmons at point guard, center or anywhere in between.

Putting someone who's been a point guard their entire career and is coming off back surgery as the starting center to begin the season seems risky, however, so expect Brooklyn to use Claxton as the opening 5 for now.

Curry could eventually be jumped in the starting five by Harris, although the 31-year-old should probably come off the bench to start as the Nets try to ease him back to the court following a pair of ankle surgeries.

At some point, a starting five of Irving, Curry, Harris, Durant and Simmons could be the best offensive unit in the NBA given the amount of elite shooting and playmaking that this group would possess.

Charlotte Hornets

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CHARLOTTE, NC - MARCH 16: P.J. Washington #25 and LaMelo Ball #2 of the Charlotte Hornets celebrate after a play during the game against the Atlanta Hawks on March 16, 2022 at Spectrum Center in Charlotte, North Carolina. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2022 NBAE (Photo by Kent Smith/NBAE via Getty Images)

Projected Starting Lineup:

PG: LaMelo Ball

SG: Terry Rozier

SF: Gordon Hayward

PF: P.J. Washington

C: Mason Plumlee

Sixth Man: Kelly Oubre Jr.

Despite all being on the Hornets last season, this five-man combo didn't log a single minute together, according to Cleaning the Glass, so it's tough to tell just how well they'll co-exist.

It's only a matter of time before No. 15 overall pick Mark Williams takes the starting center job from Plumlee, although the veteran should win the honors out of training camp. Williams could eventually become a terrific defensive anchor and lob threat playing next to Ball, however.

Oubre is one of the NBA's better sixth men who would be starting for a number of teams, and he will inevitably see time with this group if Hayward's durability issues persist.

It would be nice to see second-year shooting guard James Bouknight push Rozier for the starting job at some point, as his development could go a long way in deciding where the Hornets will finish in the East.

Chicago Bulls

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PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - NOVEMBER 03: DeMar DeRozan #11 and Zach LaVine #8 of the Chicago Bulls speak during the first quarter against the Philadelphia 76ers at Wells Fargo Center on November 03, 2021 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images)

Projected Starting Lineup:

PG: Alex Caruso

SG: Zach LaVine

SF: DeMar DeRozan

PF: Patrick Williams

C: Nikola Vučević

Sixth Man: Ayo Dosunmu

Lingering knee pain and now a second knee surgery will likely cause Ball to miss the beginning of the season, although perhaps no team in the NBA has as many ball-handling guards (Caruso, Coby White, Ayo Dosunmu, Goran Dragić) to step in, if needed.

LaVine and DeRozan are All-Stars who should once again have big seasons, and Vučević is playing for a new contract while currently finishing up a four-year, $100 million deal.

Williams' development going into year three could be the difference between a top-six seed or play-in spot for these Bulls, who face some heavily improved competition in the East.

Cleveland Cavaliers

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CLEVELAND, OHIO - SEPTEMBER 14: Donovan Mitchell poses for a photo during a press conference where he was introduced at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse on September 14, 2022 in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Nick Cammett/Getty Images)

Projected Starting Lineup:

PG: Darius Garland

SG: Donovan Mitchell

SF: Isaac Okoro

PF: Evan Mobley

C: Jarrett Allen

Sixth Man: Caris LeVert

Mitchell brings some star power to this starting lineup, one that already features a pair of 2022 All-Stars in Garland and Allen.

This will be one of the most difficult backcourts in the NBA to contain, and Garland's and Mitchell's defensive concerns should be minimized by Mobley (a future Defensive Player of the Year) and Allen, one of the league's best rim protectors.

The starting small forward job will likely either go to Okoro or LeVert, although the former fits better as a three-and-D specialist who gives LeVert more playmaking freedom in the second unit.

Last year's Sixth Man of the Year runner-up, Kevin Love, now becomes the seventh man with this group, and possibly eighth when Ricky Rubio returns from a torn ACL. This speaks to both Cleveland's depth and overall talent in year five of its rebuild.

Dallas Mavericks

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DALLAS, TEXAS - MARCH 23: Christian Wood #35 of the Houston Rockets looks to grab a rebound against Dorian Finney-Smith #10 of the Dallas Mavericks in the game at American Airlines Center on March 23, 2022 in Dallas, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Tim Heitman/Getty Images)

Projected Starting Lineup:

PG: Luka Dončić

SG: Spencer Dinwiddie

SF: Tim Hardaway Jr.

PF: Dorian Finney-Smith

C: JaVale McGee

Sixth Man: Christian Wood

While it was assumed that Wood would be Dallas' starting power forward following an offseason trade from the Houston Rockets, ESPN's Tim MacMahon writes, "The Mavs plan to feature Wood as a sixth man—a role that might not be easy for him to accept as he enters a contract year."

This seems like a bizarre choice, especially given that Dallas needs another big-time offensive threat next to Dončić now with Jalen Brunson gone. With Wood being on the final year of his contract, he'd almost certainly pursue a starting job elsewhere if the Mavericks don't give him one now.

Staggering Dončić and Dinwiddie would be wise as well, given that they're the only two reliable ball-handlers on the roster.

If Wood indeed ends up coming off the bench, this starting lineup seems very underwhelming.

Denver Nuggets

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DENVER, CO - FEBRUARY 12: Michael Porter Jr. #1, Jamal Murray #27, and Nikola Jokic #15 of the Denver Nuggets look on during the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder on February 12, 2021 at the Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2021 NBAE (Photo by Bart Young/NBAE via Getty Images)

Projected Starting Lineup:

PG: Jamal Murray

SG: Kentavious Caldwell-Pope

SF: Michael Porter Jr.

PF: Aaron Gordon

C: Nikola Jokić

Sixth Man: Bones Hyland

Trading for Caldwell-Pope from the Washington Wizards put a bow on this starting five, one that could end up being the most dangerous in the NBA with good health.

Jokić is only getting better and will be in the running for a third straight MVP, especially if Denver finishes with the top record in the West. Murray and Porter Jr. will thrive as ball-handlers and spot-up shooters next to Jokić, with Gordon serving as a lob finisher and multi-positional defender.

Following a successful rookie season where he averaged 10.1 points, 2.7 rebounds, 2.8 assists and made 36.6 percent of his threes, a leap from Hyland would truly push these Nuggets up the standings.

Detroit Pistons

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LAS VEGAS, NV - JULY 15: Jaden Ivey #23 and Jalen Duren #0 of the Detroit Pistons pose for a portrait during 2022 NBA Rookie Photo Shoot on July 15, 2022 at UNLV Campus in Las Vegas, Nevada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2022 NBAE (Photo by Michael J. LeBrecht II/NBAE via Getty Images)

Projected Starting Lineup:

PG: Cade Cunningham

SG: Jaden Ivey

SF: Saddiq Bey

PF: Bojan Bogdanovic

C: Isaiah Stewart

Sixth Man: Jalen Duren

Cunningham, Ivey and Bey seem locked in as starters to begin the season, and Bogdanovic will almost certainly open at power forward following his surprising trade from the Utah Jazz.

The starting center position will be a battle between Stewart and No. 13 overall pick Jalen Duren, although we could see lineups featuring both given Stewart's three-point shooting ability.

Cunningham's size and versatility means a number of lineups are possible. This year will be about figuring out the best combinations while also letting this talented, young group grow together.

Golden State Warriors

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SAN FRANCISCO, CA - JUNE 13: Andrew Wiggins #22 and Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors high five during Game Five of the 2022 NBA Finals on June 13, 2022 at Chase Center in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2022 NBAE (Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images)

Projected Starting Lineup:

PG: Stephen Curry

SG: Klay Thompson

SF: Andrew Wiggins

PF: Draymond Green

C: Kevon Looney

Sixth Man: Jordan Poole

The NBA's only starting five that's already won a championship together, the Warriors will once again be awesome in 2022-23.

This is the first time since the 2018-19 season that Thompson will be healthy for training camp, meaning a full-time bench role for Poole once again. With a hefty contract extension looming, Poole should be one of the favorites for Sixth Man of the Year.

Wiggins and Green are also playing for new deals, as the latter carries a $27.6 million player option for next year.

Looney remains one of the most underrated players in the NBA, even after showcasing his importance to Golden State in last year's playoffs.

Houston Rockets

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LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - JULY 15: Jabari Smith Jr. #1 of the Houston Rockets poses during the 2022 NBA Rookie Portraits at UNLV on July 15, 2022 in Las Vegas, Nevada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)

Projected Starting Lineup:

PG: Kevin Porter Jr.

SG: Jalen Green

SF: Eric Gordon

PF: Jabari Smith Jr.

C: Alperen Şengün

Sixth Man: Jae'Sean Tate

The Rockets aren't going to win many games this season, but this starting five could be a whole lot of fun to watch.

Porter and Green can light up the scoreboard, while Gordon, the only player over 22 in this lineup, serves as the old head who can still score, distribute and play solid defense.

Smith should be plenty motivated to prove he should have been the No. 1 overall pick, and the 19-year-old is talented enough to be a plus-defender even as a rookie.

Don't sleep on Şengün, who was already one of the NBA's best big-man passers as a rookie last season. Porter, Green and Smith should get plenty of easy baskets just by making smart cuts and keeping their head on a swivel.

Indiana Pacers

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ORLANDO, FLORIDA - MARCH 02: Buddy Hield #24 and Tyrese Haliburton #0 of the Indiana Pacers look on against the Orlando Magic during the first half at Amway Center on March 02, 2022 in Orlando, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)

Projected Starting Lineup:

PG: Tyrese Haliburton

SG: Ben Mathurin

SF: Buddy Hield

PF: Jalen Smith

C: Myles Turner

Sixth Man: Chris Duarte

Haliburton is the NBA's next great point guard and an All-Star candidate if the Pacers' record allows it—a highly efficient shooter and talented passer who's primed for a big year.

Who he passes to, however, could change dramatically as the season goes on.

For now, Turner and Hield are both still Pacers and will almost certainly be starters, both because of their talent and to showcase the veterans in potential trades.

Mathurin and Smith are two potential building blocks for Haliburton to grow alongside, however, and Duarte provides instant offense off the bench.

Los Angeles Clippers

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LOS ANGELES, CA - MAY 25: Kawhi Leonard #2 and Paul George #13 of the LA Clippers looks on during the game against the Dallas Mavericks during Round 1, Game 2 of the 2021 NBA Playoffs on May 25, 2021 at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2021 NBAE (Photo by Adam Pantozzi/NBAE via Getty Images)

Projected Starting Lineup:

PG: John Wall

SG: Paul George

SF: Kawhi Leonard

PF: Nicolas Batum

C: Ivica Zubac

Sixth Man: Reggie Jackson (or Norman Powell, Marcus Morris Sr., Luke Kennard, Robert Covington, Terance Mann, etc.)

The only NBA team that could feature six players talented enough to be a sixth man, these Clippers are the deepest team in the league.

The starting point guard job will come down to Wall vs. Jackson, although Wall could make more sense as a scorer and playmaker coming off the bench. Leonard, George and Zubac (the team's only true center) are the only three locked into starting jobs.

Who the Clippers open games with will likely differ drastically from who closes games, as head coach Tyronn Lue has the luxury of choosing from so many potential hot hands. We'll likely see a lot of small-ball lineups with either Batum, Morris or Covington playing center as well.

Los Angeles Lakers

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LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 02: Russell Westbrook #0 of the Los Angeles Lakers handles the ball against Patrick Beverley #22 of the Minnesota Timberwolves during the first quarter at Crypto.com Arena on January 02, 2022 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Katelyn Mulcahy/Getty Images)

Projected Starting Lineup:

PG: Russell Westbrook

SG: Patrick Beverley

SF: LeBron James

PF: Anthony Davis

C: Thomas Bryant

Sixth Man: Lonnie Walker IV

The addition of Beverley was a terrific fit for this Lakers team in need of shooting, defense and toughness. Head coach Darvin Ham acknowledged that both Beverley and Westbrook could start alongside each other in the backcourt "if they play defense" with Kendrick Nunn and Austin Reaves competing for a spot as well.

Playing small with Davis at center will probably be this team's go-to look in the fourth quarter of games, but starting Bryant at center gives the Lakers another shooter and allows Davis to guard power forwards.

Walker, the Lakers' primary offseason signing, could also sneak into the starting lineup at some point. If he has a breakout season à la Malik Monk last year, his shooting and athleticism will be needed next to James and Davis as much as possible.

If Westbrook isn't traded and gets off to another turnover-heavy, poor-shooting start, how long can Ham realistically keep him in the opening lineup when better-fitting options are now available? The combo of Westbrook, James and Davis simply didn't work last year (minus-3.0 net rating in 818 total possessions), and there's no reason to believe it will improve as all three move further past their primes.

Memphis Grizzlies

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MEMPHIS, TN - MAY 3: Jaren Jackson Jr. #13 of the Memphis Grizzlies high fives Ja Morant #12 of the Memphis Grizzlies and Desmond Bane #22 of the Memphis Grizzlies during Game 2 of the 2022 NBA Playoffs Western Conference Semifinals on May 3, 2022 at FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2022 NBAE (Photo by Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images)

Projected Starting Lineup:

PG: Ja Morant

SG: Desmond Bane

SF: Dillon Brooks

PF: Jaren Jackson Jr.

C: Steven Adams

Sixth Man: Tyus Jones

The Grizzlies' starting five absolutely blitzed opponents last season, outscoring teams by a whopping 25.1 points per 100 possessions, ranking in the 95th percentile, per Cleaning the Glass. Every member of the lineup is still in their 20s, with Morant, Bane and Jackson still 24 or younger.

This group may not get to begin the year together, however, as Jackson had surgery to address a stress fracture in his right foot. A four-to-six month recovery period means his debut could be anywhere from the end of October to early 2023.

With players like Brandon Clarke and rookies Jake LaRavia and David Roddy, however, the Grizzlies do have some big-man depth behind Jackson they can turn to at power forward.

Miami Heat

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MIAMI, FL - SEPTEMBER 27: Bam Adebayo #13, Kyle Lowry #7 and Jimmy Butler #22 of the Miami Heat pose for a portrait during NBA Media Day on September 27, 2021 at FTX Arena in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory copyright notice: Copyright NBAE 2021 (Photo by Issac Baldizon/NBAE via Getty Images)

Projected Starting Lineup:

PG: Kyle Lowry

SG: Max Strus

SF: Jimmy Butler

PF: Caleb Martin

C: Bam Adebayo

Sixth Man: Tyler Herro

For now, only Butler, Adebayo and Lowry are locked into starting jobs. It may take a full training camp to see who claims the opening shooting guard and power forward jobs, with players like Strus, Martin, Herro and Duncan Robinson all in the running.

While a bit undersized, making Martin the starting power forward helps keep the floor spread (41.3 percent from three last season) and prevents Butler from having to defend 4s on a full-time basis.

Herro was the NBA's best sixth man last season, so messing with this role may not be something Erik Spoelstra wants to do, even if he's more talented overall than Strus.

Miami may need to trade for a true power forward at some point (John Collins, Jae Crowder) to give this starting lineup more size and bite overall.

Milwaukee Bucks

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MILWAUKEE, WI - MAY 7: Jrue Holiday #21 of the Milwaukee Bucks high fives Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks during the game against the Boston Celtics during Game 3 of the 2022 NBA Playoffs Eastern Conference Semifinals on May 7, 2022 at the Fiserv Forum Center in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2022 NBAE (Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images).

Projected Starting Lineup:

PG: Jrue Holiday

SG: Grayson Allen

SF: Khris Middleton

PF: Giannis Antetokounmpo

C: Brook Lopez

Sixth Man: Bobby Portis

Lopez's back surgery prevented this group from spending much time together last season, although a plus-21.7 net rating (albeit in just 20 total possessions) is encouraging.

This is a championship-caliber starting five once again, as Antetokounmpo is the best player in basketball while Holiday and Middleton should still be playing at an All-Star level.

Now 34 and on an expiring deal, Lopez's situation should be monitored. If his play slips, we could see Portis take over as a starter and Lopez's contract used as a potential trade chip.

Minnesota Timberwolves

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MINNEAPOLIS, MN - JULY 6: Rudy Gobert of the Minnesota Timberwolves poses for a portrait on July 6, 2022 at Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2022 NBAE (Photo by David Sherman/NBAE via Getty Images)

Projected Starting Lineup:

PG: D'Angelo Russell

SG: Anthony Edwards

SF: Jaden McDaniels

PF: Karl-Anthony Towns

C: Rudy Gobert

Sixth Man: Kyle Anderson

This Wolves team will be fascinating to watch this season, with Towns' move to the full-time power forward position and Gobert's overall integration into a new team.

As good as these two All-Star big men could be together, Edwards remains the best talent on the roster. He'll almost certainly make the leap to All-Star status this season as he improves his shot selection and overall efficiency.

If Russell is willing to sacrifice some of his own shot attempts and focus on setting the table for others, this could be one of the best starting units in the NBA, especially if McDaniels can continue to improve his defense and three-point shooting.

New Orleans Pelicans

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LAS VEGAS, NV - JULY 13: Zion Williamson #1, CJ McCollum #3, Brandon Ingram #14 and Naji Marshall #8 of the New Orleans Pelicans looks on during the 2022 Las Vegas Summer League on July 13, 2022 at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas, Nevada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2022 NBAE (Photo by Garrett Ellwood/NBAE via Getty Images)

Projected Starting Lineup:

PG: CJ McCollum

SG: Herbert Jones

SF: Brandon Ingram

PF: Zion Williamson

C: Jonas Valančiūnas

Sixth Man: Devonte' Graham

While McCollum isn't a traditional point guard, he'll likely be the Pelicans' floor general moving forward, especially since this lineup has multiple ball-handlers. This also gives New Orleans one of the biggest starting fives in the NBA with the 6'8" Jones at shooting guard.

Williamson averaged 27.0 points per game the last time we saw him, but he could be the fourth scoring option on some nights given how much talent is on this roster.

If Ingram and Valančiūnas can improve their three-point shooting, this could be a top-five offense with Jones serving as the team's much-needed defensive stopper.

New York Knicks

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NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JANUARY 12: (NEW YORK DAILIES OUT) RJ Barrett #9 of the New York Knicks in action against Jalen Brunson #13 of the Dallas Mavericks at Madison Square Garden on January 12, 2022 in New York City. The Knicks defeated the Mavericks 108-85. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images)

Projected Starting Lineup:

PG: Jalen Brunson

SG: RJ Barrett

SF: Evan Fournier

PF: Julius Randle

C: Mitchell Robinson

Sixth Man: Immanuel Quickley

Brunson was brought in to bring out the best in the rest of these Knicks, which won't be an easy task. The four-man combo of Barrett, Fournier, Randle and Robinson had a net rating of minus-5.3 in 1,883 total possessions last season, ranking in just the 27th percentile overall.

New York should seriously consider starting Quickley or Quentin Grimes over Fournier, giving this unit some more upside and defense overall.

If Brunson plays at a near-All-Star level and Randle looks like his 2019-20 version, this lineup has some real bite. If Randle plays like he did last season and Fournier remains in the starting lineup, these Knicks will fall short of the playoffs once again.

Oklahoma City Thunder

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LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 4: Josh Giddey #3 and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander #2 of the Oklahoma City Thunder stand on the court against the Los Angeles Lakers on November 4, 2021 at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2021 NBAE (Photo by Adam Pantozzi/NBAE via Getty Images)

Projected Starting Lineup:

PG: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

SG: Josh Giddey

SF: Lu Dort

PF: Darius Bazley

C: Derrick Favors

Sixth Man: Aleksej Pokuševski

Chet Holmgren's foot surgery will likely make us wait a year to see him join this lineup, as he would have been a lock as the team's starting power forward.

Bazley has one more year to prove himself before becoming a restricted free agent next season and could get jumped by Pokuševski if he doesn't show enough growth. Favors will likely begin the year as the starting center, although he's a prime trade candidate now on an expiring deal.

This unit will once again be led by Giddey and Gilgeous-Alexander, who could very well be a first-time All-Star this season. With the backcourt set in stone, the frontcourt could still be a revolving door of prospects with Holmgren sidelined.

Orlando Magic

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LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - JULY 15: Paolo Banchero #5 of the Orlando Magic poses during the 2022 NBA Rookie Portraits at UNLV on July 15, 2022 in Las Vegas, Nevada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)

Projected Starting Lineup:

PG: Cole Anthony

SG: Jalen Suggs

SF: Franz Wagner

PF: Paolo Banchero

C: Wendell Carter Jr.

Sixth Man: Mo Bamba

Banchero immediately becomes the focal point of Orlando's starting lineup, as the attention he'll draw both as a scorer and playmaker should open up plenty of easy looks for everyone else. There's no reason why Banchero shouldn't become the Rookie of the Year with the workload he's expected to see.

The guards could certainly use some more open looks, as neither Anthony nor Suggs shot above 39.1 percent last year. Both should be better with another offseason of work and a future All-Star to play off of now.

Carter looks like at least an above-average starting NBA center, one who's just starting a team-friendly four-year, $50 million extension. Wagner also gives this lineup plenty of upside with his size and overall skill set, while bringing Bamba off the bench as a 4 or 5 adds some rim protection and outside shooting.

Philadelphia 76ers

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PHILADELPHIA, PA - MARCH 14: Tyrese Maxey #0, James Harden #1, Tobias Harris #12, and Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers react against the Denver Nuggets at the Wells Fargo Center on March 14, 2022 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Nuggets defeated the 76ers 114-110. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)

Projected Starting Lineup:

PG: James Harden

SG: Tyrese Maxey

SF: Tobias Harris

PF: P.J. Tucker

C: Joel Embiid

Sixth Man: De'Anthony Melton

With Tucker on board, this could be the best overall combination of offense and defense of any starting lineup.

Embiid will once again be a top MVP candidate while dominating on both ends, Harden is still one of the league's best playmakers and Maxey is an electric offensive talent who has worked himself from being a below-average to now elite three-point shooter.

Harris as a fourth scoring option is a luxury, and Tucker doesn't need to do much besides defend, set screens and hit open corner threes.

Trading for Melton as the team's sixth man was a great move, as he fits nicely as a defensive playmaker next to both Harden and Maxey.

Phoenix Suns

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PHOENIX, AZ - FEBRUARY 16: Devin Booker #1, Jae Crowder #99, Chris Paul #3, Mikal Bridges #25, and Deandre Ayton #22 of the Phoenix Suns huddle up during the game against the Houston Rockets on February 16, 2022 at Footprint Center in Phoenix, Arizona. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2022 NBAE (Photo by Barry Gossage/NBAE via Getty Images)

Projected Starting Lineup:

PG: Chris Paul

SG: Devin Booker

SF: Mikal Bridges

PF: Jae Crowder

C: Deandre Ayton

Sixth Man: Cam Johnson

ESPN's Brian Windhorst reported that Crowder is currently available in trade talks, so his time as the team's starting power forward may be short-lived. If he is moved and no power forward comes back in return, Johnson is more than capable of taking over.

Booker is coming off his first career All-NBA team and could threaten to lead the league in scoring, especially if Paul's shot attempts continue to decline.

Bridges is one of the league's top wing defenders, and Ayton is a borderline All-Star who has improved defensively as well.

While there may be some unsettled situations with a potential Crowder trade and Ayton getting his max deal via an offer sheet with the Indiana Pacers, this is still a championship-worthy starting five.

Portland Trail Blazers

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PORTLAND, OR - July 7: Jerami Grant of the Portland Trail Blazers poses for a portrait on July 7, 2022 in Portland, Oregon. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2022 NBAE (Photo by Sam Forencich/NBAE via Getty Images)

Projected Starting Lineup:

PG: Damian Lillard

SG: Anfernee Simons

SF: Josh Hart

PF: Jerami Grant

C: Jusuf Nurkić

Sixth Man: Nassir Little

These Blazers will look far different from the group that started last season, as only Lillard and Nurkić remain from the opening-night lineup.

A healthy Lillard is still one of the best basketball players in the world now at age 32, and he could win his first career scoring title with CJ McCollum and Norman Powell traded away.

Grant will do wonders for the team's defense, and Hart works well as a do-it-all forward who can score, rebound, pass and guard multiple positions.

The sixth man could go to a number of players, although Little is going to be an important part of the rotation with his defense and versatility. If rookie Shaedon Sharpe can become a reliable scorer off the bench, this Blazers team could surprise a lot of people.

Sacramento Kings

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LAS VEGAS, NV - JULY 14: Keegan Murray #13 of the Sacramento Kings poses for a portrait during 2022 NBA Rookie Photo Shoot on July 14, 2022 at UNLV Campus in Las Vegas, Nevada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2022 NBAE (Photo by Michael J. LeBrecht II/NBAE via Getty Images)

Projected Starting Lineup:

PG: De'Aaron Fox

SG: Malik Monk

SF: Harrison Barnes

PF: Keegan Murray

C: Domantas Sabonis

Sixth Man: Kevin Huerter

Four of the Kings' starting positions appear to be locked in, although shooting guard could be a battle between three deserving candidates.

Monk is a former college teammate of Fox at Kentucky and averaged 17.0 points, 4.0 rebounds and 3.3 assists in 37 starts with the Lakers last season, all while shooting 42.2 percent from three. Putting this kind of shooting around elite playmakers like Fox and Sabonis is important.

Huerter (6'7") would give Sacramento the biggest lineup, while Davion Mitchell is the best defender of the three. We could see all three get a chance at the starting shooting guard job at some point, especially if the Kings stumble out of the gate.

Murray gives this lineup a lot of upside, as he should be an immediate starter as a rookie who can score, rebound and defend multiple positions.

San Antonio Spurs

Photos by Michael Gonzales/NBAE via Getty Images

SAN ANTONIO, TX - MARCH 30: Joshua Primo #11 and Keldon Johnson #3 of the San Antonio Spurs talk during the game against the Memphis Grizzlies on March 30, 2022 at the AT&T Center in San Antonio, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2022 NBAE (Photos by Michael Gonzales/NBAE via Getty Images)

Projected Starting Lineup:

PG: Josh Primo

SG: Devin Vassell

SF: Keldon Johnson

PF: Doug McDermott

C: Jakob Pöltl

Sixth Man: Josh Richardson

This is a tough lineup to predict, as Johnson and Pöltl are probably the only locks to make the starting five.

Primo seems like the point guard of the future moving forward, but he has big shoes to fill following two decades of Tony Parker and Dejounte Murray. He's still just 19 despite entering his sophomore season and has terrific size (6'6") for the position.

McDermott, Richardson and Pöltl will be hot names around the trade deadline, especially with the latter two now playing on expiring contracts.

There's some intriguing young talent on this roster that features three 2022 first-round picks, players who will inevitably get more run once more veterans are traded away.

Toronto Raptors

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MINNEAPOLIS, MN - FEBRUARY 16: Pascal Siakam #43, OG Anunoby #3 and Scottie Barnes #4 of the Toronto Raptors look on during the game against the Minnesota Timberwolves on February 16, 2022 at Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2022 NBAE (Photo by Jordan Johnson/NBAE via Getty Images)

Projected Starting Lineup:

PG: Fred VanVleet

SG: Gary Trent Jr.

SF: OG Anunoby

PF: Scottie Barnes

C: Pascal Siakam

Sixth Man: Otto Porter Jr.

The most used opening lineup in the NBA last season, head coach Nick Nurse loves his starters. Maybe too much.

The addition of Porter will help ease the workload, as he can play and defend either forward position and is coming off a championship run with the Golden State Warriors.

Siakam, VanVleet and Barnes could all be All-Stars this year if Toronto's record is good enough, and Anunoby is one of the best wing defenders in the league.

Utah Jazz

Melissa Majchrzak/NBAE via Getty Images

SALT LAKE CITY, UT - SEPTEMBER 13: Collin Sexton of the Utah Jazz speaks at a press conference after their trade to the team at Zions Bank Basketball Campus on September 13, 2022 in Salt Lake City, Utah. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2022 NBAE (Photo by Melissa Majchrzak/NBAE via Getty Images)

Projected Starting Lineup:

PG: Mike Conley Jr.

SG: Collin Sexton

SF: Malik Beasley

PF: Lauri Markkanen

C: Jarred Vanderbilt

Sixth Man: Talen Horton-Tucker

This lineup could look very different after the February trade deadline, as Conley, Beasley and possibly even Markkanen could be moved for the right price.

If Sexton is healthy and has the green light, he could average over 25 points per game this season and make Jazz fans (at least momentarily) forget about Donovan Mitchell, while Markkanen proved he can play either forward position last year. Horton-Tucker could take a leap while getting a bigger opportunity and more on-ball time.

Vanderbilt doesn't have the upside of those two, but he's a strong rebounder and defender who should quickly draw the admiration of Utah fans.

Washington Wizards

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BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - OCTOBER 27: Bradley Beal #3 of the Washington Wizards and Kyle Kuzma #33 of the Washington Wizards react after their victory over the Boston Celtics at TD Garden on October 27, 2021 in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Omar Rawlings/Getty Images)

Projected Starting Lineup:

PG: Monte Morris

SG: Bradley Beal

SF: Deni Avdija

PF: Kyle Kuzma

C: Kristaps Porzingis

Sixth Man: Will Barton

The starting small forward job will be the one to watch here, as head coach Wes Unseld Jr. said the spot is "wide open" entering training camp. Players like Avdija, Barton, Rui Hachimura and Corey Kispert could all stake their claims for the job. Of the four, Avdija is the most intriguing option given his scoring, playmaking and defensive abilities.

Beal will once again have to be near the league scoring leaders for the Wizards to have a chance at making the playoffs, and Porzingis' durability will forever be a concern even if he could thrive as a floor-spacing, rim-protecting center.

The addition of Morris at point guard seems more like a Band-Aid when the position truly needed surgery, and it wouldn't be surprising to see Washington make a run at a player like Mike Conley Jr. or another floor general who comes available.

There are a lot of wings and forwards on this roster but no clear All-Star outside of Beal to truly elevate Washington into the top of the East.