12. Sacramento Kings
From the outside, the Sacramento Kings seem like a trainwreck. And, to be fair, that might be totally true. They completely botched the Bogdan Bogdanovich deal and nearly destroyed their relationship with Buddy Hield. But, somehow, this franchise is still intact.
At their core, the Kings have an elite backcourt with De’Aaron Fox and Hield. In particular, Fox is threatening to make the jump to All-Star level any day now, averaging 21.1 points and 6.8 assists last season.
With the addition of Tyrese Haliburton, the Kings could have a three-headed monster on their hands. Of course, if Marvin Bagley is finally able to remain healthy, this is a sneaky good team.
11. Memphis Grizzlies
The Grizzlies finished just outside of the playoff picture last season. I expect them to wind up in the same position this year, as they just don’t have enough firepower to crack into the top eight.
Nonetheless, Grizzlies fans should rejoice at the thought of seeing Ja Morant enter his sophomore year alongside a Jaren Jackson Jr. These two are going to special together for years to come. All the Grizzlies need to do is build a stronger supporting cast around them.
The future is bright for Memphis. For now, the Grizzlies will have to wait their turn.