3 NBA playoff teams that will dig themselves into an early hole in 2024-25

1) Los Angeles Clippers

The Clippers have had a disaster of an offseason, as they lost star forward Paul George and acquired nothing in return for him. After months of sending lowball contract offers, LA paid the price and are now forced to run it back with the duo of James Harden and Kawhi Leonard. In a tougher Western Conference and given their lack of firepower, the Clips could get off to a slow start.

Outside of Phoenix, LA has the toughest schedule in the NBA for the first two months. They start the season with games against the Suns, Nuggets, and Warriors. They play playoff teams like the Philadelphia 76ers, OKC Thunder, and Orlando Magic. Finally, to start the season of giving in November, they play road games against the Boston Celtics and Minnesota Timberwolves. Not a great way to start the holiday season.

Head Coach Ty Lue can puff his chest out all he wants about proving the doubters wrong, but the harsh reality is that this Clippers team is considerably worse than last year and the West is as tough as it's ever been. They are also relying on Leonard, who has not been reliable when it comes to being available, and a declining Harden. The new arena features at Intuit Dome could be the highlight of LA’s season.