There are several reasons for optimism heading into the 2022-23 campaign: All 30 teams are fully rested after having fun with a standard-length offseason for the primary time since before the pandemic began, and Kawhi Leonard, Damian Lillard, Zion Williamson, Jamal Murray and Ben Simmons return from prolonged absences to make their teams more formidable and fun. And while this summer’s free agent class was mostly underwhelming, gutsy trades involving Rudy Gobert, Donovan Mitchell, Dejounte Murray and Malcolm Brogdon shook up the playoff race.
With opening night fast approaching, here’s how the 30 teams compare in relation to entertainment value. As in previous editions, this rating considers substance and elegance, with star power, fresh faces, intriguing additions and novel philosophies earning bonus points.