While many NBA enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the upcoming season, some may dread watching their favorite teams face tough challenges.
Even with the draft lottery reforms aimed at reducing tanking, a few teams are expected to have difficult seasons ahead.
NBA Analysis Network has identified the five teams likely to finish with the poorest records next season, along with their estimated win totals.
- READ MORE: Key decisions facing the Clippers after losing five first-round draft picks due to the Kawhi Leonard investigation
5. Milwaukee Bucks (31 wins)
The Milwaukee Bucks are expected to struggle next year after trading away Giannis Antetokounmpo to the Miami Heat.
Losing the Greek Freak will be a massive setback both on the court and in leadership, likely taking several seasons for the team to rebound.
Still, with talents like Tyler Herro and Jaime Jaquez Jr joining the roster, the Bucks might perform better than anticipated.
This duo, both former members of the Heat, will be motivated to prove themselves and could contribute roughly 40 points per game combined.
4. Sacramento Kings (28 wins)
By waiving DeMar DeRozan earlier in the offseason, the Sacramento Kings signaled the start of a rebuilding phase.
The team is now expected to focus on 19-year-old point guard Darius Acuff Jr, their recent seventh overall draft pick.
The Kings may also look to trade veteran players like Domantas Sabonis and Zach LaVine as part of the rebuild.
Though they’ll likely rank near the bottom of the Western Conference, their overall talent still surpasses at least three other struggling teams on this list.
3. Los Angeles Clippers (27 wins)
The Los Angeles Clippers face a grim outlook after receiving harsh penalties from the NBA for salary cap violations.
With the loss of five first-round draft picks, the Clippers may need to trade key players like Darius Garland to acquire new draft assets.
The team’s only saving grace at this point is the promising duo of Garland and Brandon Ingram, who could bring excitement to the court if they remain.
If these players are traded, the Clippers will need to prioritize developing prospects such as Keaton Wagler to rebuild their roster.
2. Brooklyn Nets (23 wins)
The Brooklyn Nets continue to recover from the unsuccessful experiment of assembling stars Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving, and James Harden.
Currently in a rebuilding phase, the team features many young players with potential, aiming to become playoff contenders in the future.
Despite adding Julius Randle, their inexperience means they are unlikely to qualify for even the Play-In Tournament this coming season.
However, an improvement of three wins over last year and development from players like Egor Demin would mark progress.
1. Memphis Grizzlies (22 wins)
The Memphis Grizzlies made moves this offseason that align with their long-term goals, but these are unlikely to translate into immediate success.
The absence of All-Star point guard Ja Morant will severely impact their offensive capabilities this season.
Concerns remain over Zach Edey’s injury history, though players like Cedric Coward and Cameron Boozer show promise as foundational pieces.
In the 2026-27 season, winning games isn’t the primary focus—building for the future takes precedence, and the team’s record may reflect that strategy.
Fan Take: This outlook underscores how rebuilding phases are a natural part of the NBA’s cyclical nature, reminding fans that patience often leads to future greatness. Keeping an eye on these struggling teams provides a glimpse into the league’s evolving landscape and potential breakout stars of tomorrow.
Source: nbaanalysis.net
