10 NBA Teams With The Biggest National TV Games Increase And Decrease For The 2024-25 Season

The NBA schedule release is always a moment of anticipation for fans and players alike. It’s a sneak peek at which teams are expected to shine in the upcoming season and who the league thinks will grab the most eyeballs. This year, the national TV landscape has shifted quite a bit, with some teams seeing a big jump in their exposure, while others are noticeably absent from prime-time slots. Whether it’s due to blockbuster trades, promising rookies, or just plain old winning basketball, these are the teams that saw the biggest changes in their national TV appearances for the 2024-25 season.

NBA Teams With The Biggest Increases

1. Minnesota Timberwolves (+13 Games)

2024-25: 18 Games

2023-24: 5 Games

The Minnesota Timberwolves have officially entered the spotlight, and it’s about time. After a thrilling 2023-24 season where they battled their way to the Western Conference Finals, the Wolves are no longer a team that flies under the radar. With a massive increase from 5 national TV games last year to 18 this season, it’s clear that the league—and the fans—want more of Minnesota’s electrifying play.

Anthony Edwards has emerged as the franchise’s cornerstone, putting up career-high numbers last season with 25.9 points, 5.1 assists, and 5.4 rebounds per game. His performance wasn’t just about stats; he played a crucial role in leading the Wolves to their first Western Conference Finals appearance since 2004. Add to that his Olympic gold medal win over the summer, and Edwards is entering the 2024-25 season with the confidence and experience to push the Timberwolves even further.

But it’s not just Edwards who’s driving this team’s success. Rudy Gobert, the reigning Defensive Player of the Year, continues to anchor their defense, while Karl-Anthony Towns remains an All-Star caliber player, contributing on both ends of the floor. The team’s cohesion and improvement last season, culminating in a 57-25 record and the third seed in the Western Conference, have set high expectations for this year.

The Timberwolves’ increased national TV presence reflects their status as legitimate contenders in the West. With their core players in peak form and a fanbase eager to see more, Minnesota is poised to deliver some of the most exciting basketball of the 2024-25 season. Whether they can capitalize on this momentum and make a deeper playoff run remains to be seen, but one thing’s for sure—everyone will be watching.

2. Indiana Pacers (+8 Games)

2024-25: 9 Games

2023-24: 1 Game

The Indiana Pacers have made a huge leap in national recognition, with their national TV games increasing from just one last season to nine this year. This surge comes after a remarkable 2023-24 season where they finished with a 46-36 record, securing the fifth seed in the Eastern Conference and making a deep playoff run that ended in the Eastern Conference Finals against the Boston Celtics. It was their first time reaching the Conference Finals since the 2013-14 season, a testament to how far this young team has come.

Tyrese Haliburton was the star of the show, leading the team with 20.1 points and 10.9 assists per game, and earning All-NBA honors for the first time in his career. His ability to control the pace of the game and create opportunities for his teammates has turned the Pacers into a team that demands national attention. The addition of Pascal Siakam, who brought his championship experience and averaged 21.2 points and 7.4 rebounds last season, only adds to the excitement around this team.

The Pacers’ fast-paced and dynamic style, driven by their young core, makes them one of the most entertaining teams to watch. Their increased presence on national TV is a clear signal that the league and fans alike are expecting big things from Indiana this season. With nine games under the national spotlight, the Pacers will have plenty of opportunities to show that last season was no fluke and that they are ready to be consistent contenders in the East.

3. Oklahoma City Thunder (+7 Games)

2024-25: 15 Games

2023-24: 8 Games

The Oklahoma City Thunder have taken a significant step forward in terms of national visibility, with their national TV games increasing from 8 last season to 15 in 2024-25. This jump is well-earned, following a highly successful 2023-24 season where the Thunder finished with a 57-25 record, securing the top seed in the Western Conference. Their impressive run saw them sweep the New Orleans Pelicans in the first round of the playoffs before ultimately falling to the Dallas Mavericks in six games in the Western Conference Semifinals.

The team’s resurgence has been driven by the stellar play of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who has firmly established himself as one of the league’s elite players. Last season, he averaged 30.1 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 6.2 assists per game, earning a spot on the All-NBA First Team. His leadership and clutch performances have been pivotal in OKC’s rise.

Additionally, Chet Holmgren’s debut after missing his rookie season due to injury brought a new dimension to the team. Holmgren’s defensive presence and versatile skill set have made the Thunder even more formidable. Combined with the continued development of young stars like Jalen Williams and the strategic offseason additions, the Thunder are poised to build on their success.

With 15 national TV games, the Thunder will have ample opportunities to showcase their young and dynamic roster on the big stage. This season, they’re not just a team with potential—they’re legitimate contenders looking to make a deep playoff run once again.

4. New York Knicks (+4 Games)

2024-25: 24 Games

2023-24: 20 Games

The New York Knicks are becoming a mainstay on national TV, with their appearances increasing to 24 games this season, up from 20 last year. This rise comes after a strong 2023-24 campaign where they posted a 47-35 record and reached the Eastern Conference Semifinals. Jalen Brunson had a breakout season, averaging 28.7 points, 6.7 assists, and 3.6 rebounds per game, earning his first All-Star nod.

The addition of Mikal Bridges from the Brooklyn Nets adds another layer of excitement. Bridges, who averaged 19.6 points per game last season, joins a roster already packed with talent, including Julius Randle and the newly extended OG Anunoby. With these key players, the Knicks are poised to challenge the top teams in the East.

Their increased national TV coverage reflects the anticipation surrounding this team. The Knicks are no longer just playoff hopefuls; they are expected to be serious contenders, and fans across the country will get plenty of opportunities to watch them in action.

5. Dallas Mavericks (+4 Games)

2024-25: 23 Games

2023-24: 19 Games

The Dallas Mavericks are set to be one of the most watched teams in the league, with their national TV appearances increasing from 19 to 23 games for the 2024-25 season. This jump in exposure comes after a successful 2023-24 campaign where the Mavericks finished with a 50-32 record, securing the fifth seed in the Western Conference and advancing to the NBA Finals. Although they fell short against the Boston Celtics in the Finals, their playoff run solidified them as a team to watch.

Luka Doncic continued to showcase why he’s one of the most dynamic players in the NBA, averaging 33.9 points, 9.8 assists, and 9.2 rebounds per game last season. His ability to control the game and make clutch plays has made the Mavericks a must-see team. Alongside Kyrie Irving, who remains a key piece of the roster, and new additions like Klay Thompson, the Mavericks are poised to make another deep playoff run.

The Mavericks’ increased presence on national TV reflects the league’s recognition of their star power and potential to compete at the highest levels. With 23 games under the national spotlight, Dallas will have plenty of opportunities to prove that last season’s Finals run was no fluke, and they are here to stay as one of the Western Conference’s elite teams.

6. Orlando Magic (+4 Games)

2024-25: 5 Games

2023-24: 1 Game

The Orlando Magic are finally getting some well-deserved national attention, with their national TV appearances increasing from just 1 last season to 5 in 2024-25. This rise comes after a significant improvement in the 2023-24 season, where the Magic finished with a 47-35 record, making the playoffs for the first time since 2020. While they were eliminated in the first round by the Cleveland Cavaliers, their young core, led by Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner, showed enough promise to warrant a closer look from fans and analysts alike.

Banchero, who earned his first All-Star selection last season, averaged 22.6 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 5.4 assists per game, solidifying his role as the cornerstone of the franchise. Wagner also continued to develop, providing consistent scoring and defensive versatility. The Magic’s rise is further supported by their offseason addition of Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, who brings championship experience and a defensive mindset to the team.

The Magic’s increased visibility on national TV gives them the platform to showcase their growth and potential. With five games on major networks and matchups against high-profile teams like the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Boston Celtics, Orlando has the opportunity to prove they are on the cusp of becoming a serious contender in the Eastern Conference. This season is about building on last year’s success and showing that the Magic are no longer a team to be overlooked.

7. Philadelphia 76ers (+3 Games)

2024-25: 21 Games

2023-24: 18 Games

The Philadelphia 76ers are gearing up for a pivotal season, with their national TV games increasing from 18 to 21 for the 2024-25 campaign. This boost comes after a transformative offseason, highlighted by the addition of Paul George, who signed a four-year, $212 million max extension with the team. George is expected to be a perfect complement to Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey, forming a formidable trio that has the Sixers eyeing a deep playoff run.

Last season, the 76ers finished with a 47-35 record and secured the seventh seed in the Eastern Conference. They were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs, largely due to Embiid’s limited availability, as he only played 39 games due to injury. Despite this, Embiid put up MVP-caliber numbers, averaging 34.7 points, 11.0 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game, but missed out on All-NBA honors due to the new 65-game eligibility rule.

With a retooled roster and a healthy Embiid, the Sixers are poised to improve on last season’s performance. The addition of George, along with other key offseason acquisitions like Caleb Martin and Andre Drummond, provides the team with the depth and star power needed to compete with the best in the league. Philadelphia’s increased national TV presence reflects the heightened expectations, as the Sixers look to solidify their place among the Eastern Conference’s elite and make a serious push for the NBA Finals.

8. New Orleans Pelicans (+3 Games)

2024-25: 9 Games

2023-24: 6 Games

The New Orleans Pelicans are gaining more national attention this season, with their national TV appearances increasing from 6 to 9 games in the 2024-25 campaign. This bump reflects the excitement around a young and dynamic team that is poised to make noise in the Western Conference.

Last season, the Pelicans finished with a 49-33 record and earned a playoff spot, continuing their upward trajectory under the leadership of Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram. Williamson, when healthy, continues to be a force, and the addition of Dejounte Murray this offseason has only raised expectations for what this team can achieve. The combination of Murray’s defense and playmaking with Zion’s explosive scoring and Ingram’s versatility makes the Pelicans one of the most intriguing teams to watch this year.

Their nine national TV games include high-profile matchups against teams like the Golden State Warriors and Los Angeles Lakers, where the Pelicans will have the chance to prove they belong among the elite in the Western Conference. As the team continues to develop and gel with their new additions, these nationally televised games will provide them with the platform to showcase their growth and potential to a wider audience.

This season is critical for the Pelicans as they aim to solidify their place as a playoff contender and possibly make a deeper postseason run.

9. San Antonio Spurs (+2 Games)

2024-25: 13 Games

2023-24: 11 Games

The San Antonio Spurs are stepping into the spotlight with an increase in national TV appearances, now up to 13 games for the 2024-25 season. This comes after a promising rookie season for Victor Wembanyama, who has quickly established himself as a cornerstone for the franchise. In his debut season, Wembanyama averaged 21.4 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game, while also making a significant impact defensively with 3.6 blocks per game, which earned him the Rookie of the Year award.

The addition of Chris Paul this offseason is expected to be a game-changer for the young Spurs squad. Paul’s experience and leadership will be invaluable, particularly in guiding Wembanyama and the team’s other young talents like Devin Vassell and Keldon Johnson. Paul’s presence should help the Spurs become more competitive in the loaded Western Conference.

This season, the Spurs’ national TV schedule includes high-profile matchups, such as a Christmas Day game against the New York Knicks and several games against top Western Conference opponents like the Oklahoma City Thunder and Los Angeles Lakers. Additionally, the Spurs will play an international game in Paris, highlighting Wembanyama’s global appeal and the worldwide interest in his development.

The Spurs’ increase in national exposure reflects the growing excitement around the team as they continue to rebuild and aim to transition from a developing team to a playoff contender. With Wembanyama and Paul leading the way, this season is crucial for the Spurs to showcase their progress and establish themselves as a team on the rise.

10. Houston Rockets (+2 Games)

2024-25: 3 Games

2023-24: 1 Game

The Houston Rockets are gradually gaining national attention, with their national TV games increasing from just one last season to three in the 2024-25 season. This rise in visibility reflects the excitement surrounding their young and talented roster, which made significant strides last season. The Rockets finished with a 41-41 record and are now aiming to break into the playoffs.

Alperen Sengun, who was a standout last season, played a pivotal role in the team’s improvement. Sengun averaged 21.1 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game, showcasing his versatility and solidifying his status as one of the league’s emerging stars. His development, alongside Jalen Green, who is expected to increase his scoring output, has positioned the Rockets as a team on the rise.

This season is crucial for Houston as they look to establish themselves as playoff contenders and continue their upward trajectory in the Western Conference. The Rockets are eager to prove their progress on a larger stage and demonstrate that they are ready to compete with the league’s best.

NBA Teams With The Biggest Decreases

1. Miami Heat (-9 Games)

2024-25: 7 Games

2023-24: 16 Games

The Miami Heat have seen a significant drop in their national TV presence this season, with their appearances shrinking from 16 games last season to just 7 in 2024-25. This decrease comes after a disappointing 2023-24 campaign, where the Heat finished with a 44-38 record and were knocked out in the first round of the playoffs by the eventual champion Boston Celtics. Injuries plagued the team throughout the season, with key players like Jimmy Butler, Duncan Robinson, and Terry Rozier missing crucial games during their playoff run.

Without any major offseason additions to bolster the roster, the Heat’s national appeal has waned. The team’s lack of star power beyond Butler, combined with their early playoff exit, likely contributed to the league’s decision to feature them less on the national stage this year. Miami’s seven national TV games include matchups against top teams like the Milwaukee Bucks and Los Angeles Lakers, but overall, their reduced visibility reflects the uncertainties surrounding their ability to compete at the highest level this season.

2. Phoenix Suns (-6 Games)

2024-25: 19 Games

2023-24: 25 Games

The Phoenix Suns have seen a decrease in their national TV appearances for the 2024-25 season, dropping from 25 games last year to 19 this season. This reduction comes despite the Suns boasting one of the most star-studded rosters in the league, featuring Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal.

Last season, the Suns finished with a solid 49-33 record but were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs, a disappointing outcome for a team with championship aspirations. The early exit, coupled with some roster changes and the overall competitive landscape of the Western Conference, likely contributed to their reduced visibility on the national stage.

The 19 nationally televised games still provide ample opportunities for the Suns to showcase their talent, including high-profile matchups against other Western Conference powerhouses. However, the decrease in national exposure reflects a shift in the league’s focus, possibly due to the Suns’ inability to make a deep playoff run last year.

This season will be crucial for the Suns as they aim to bounce back and solidify themselves as true contenders in the West. With the core of Durant, Booker, and Beal, the Suns have the firepower to compete with anyone, and they will need to prove it to regain their national prominence.

3. Golden State Warriors (-5 Games)

2024-25: 24 Games

2023-24: 29 Games

The Golden State Warriors are facing a significant reduction in national TV appearances, dropping from 29 games last season to 24 in 2024-25. This decline follows a disappointing 2023-24 season where the Warriors, despite their efforts, finished with a 46-36 record and were eliminated in the Play-In Tournament, failing to make the playoffs for the first time in years.

Adding to the challenges, Klay Thompson, a key figure in their dynasty, departed to the Dallas Mavericks in a sign-and-trade deal, marking the end of an era for the team. The Warriors now rely heavily on Stephen Curry and Draymond Green, but the question remains whether they can remain competitive in an increasingly tough Western Conference without one of their foundational stars.

This season is crucial for the Warriors as they attempt to regroup and re-establish themselves as contenders. Despite the reduction in national exposure, 24 TV games still offer plenty of opportunities for Golden State to prove that they can adapt and thrive, even with the significant changes to their roster. The team’s performance this season will be closely watched, as they navigate through this transition period and strive to keep their championship window open.

4. Sacramento Kings (-5 Games)

2024-25: 6 Games

2023-24: 11 Games

The Sacramento Kings have seen their national TV games reduced from 11 last season to just 6 for the 2024-25 campaign. This decrease comes after a season in which the Kings finished with a solid 46-36 record but fell short in the Play-In Tournament, losing to the New Orleans Pelicans. Despite the strong performances of De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis, the team struggled with consistency, particularly in the second half of the season.

The offseason brought notable changes, including the addition of DeMar DeRozan, who joined the Kings to provide veteran leadership and scoring depth. DeRozan’s experience and mid-range prowess are expected to complement Fox’s speed and Sabonis’s inside presence, potentially giving the Kings the boost they need to return to the playoffs. However, the reduced national TV presence reflects skepticism about whether these changes will be enough to overcome the competitive landscape of the Western Conference.

The Kings are entering the season with something to prove. They need to demonstrate that last year’s Play-In loss was a fluke and that they are ready to take the next step as a serious playoff contender. The spotlight may be dimmer, but the Kings have the talent to shine if they can find the consistency that eluded them last season.

5. Memphis Grizzlies (-4 Games)

2024-25: 9 Games

2023-24: 13 Games

The Memphis Grizzlies are seeing a drop in their national TV games this season, down from 13 to 9. This reduction comes after a challenging 2023-24 season in which the Grizzlies struggled significantly, finishing with a disappointing 27-55 record. This performance was far below expectations, especially considering that Memphis had been one of the stronger teams in the Western Conference in previous years.

The 2023-24 season was marred by injuries and off-court issues, most notably the suspension of star player Ja Morant. These factors contributed to the team’s inability to find consistent success on the court, leading to their worst season in recent memory. The Grizzlies were unable to make the playoffs, and their struggles were a significant reason for the reduced national attention this season.

The team made several moves prior to the 2023-24 season, including the acquisition of Marcus Smart, to bolster their defense and provide veteran leadership. However, despite these efforts, the Grizzlies could not overcome the challenges they faced throughout the season.

This year, Memphis is looking to bounce back and prove that last season was an anomaly. With a reduced number of national TV games, the Grizzlies will have to work hard to regain their status as a top team in the Western Conference and restore their reputation as a must-watch squad.

6. Brooklyn Nets (-4 Games)

2024-25: 1 Game

2023-24: 5 Games

The Brooklyn Nets have seen a significant drop in their national TV appearances, going from five games last season to just one in 2024-25. This reduction reflects the challenges the team faced during the 2023-24 season, where they finished with a disappointing 32-50 record and missed the playoffs. The departure of key players like Mikal Bridges and the transition to a rebuilding phase under a new head coach, Jordi Fernández, have contributed to the team’s reduced visibility on the national stage.

With a young and developing roster, the Nets are in a rebuilding phase, focusing on long-term growth rather than immediate success. Their single national TV game will be an opportunity for the team to showcase their progress, but the lack of marquee matchups indicates that the Nets are no longer a focal point in the league’s broader narrative.

This season will be a test for the new-look Nets as they aim to lay the foundation for future success while navigating through a challenging rebuilding process.

7. Los Angeles Clippers (-3 Games)

2024-25: 9 Games

2023-24: 12 Games

The Los Angeles Clippers are entering the 2024-25 season with fewer national TV appearances, down from 12 games last year to 9 this season. This decline comes after a tumultuous 2023-24 campaign, where the team managed a 51-31 record but was knocked out in the first round of the playoffs by the Dallas Mavericks in six games. The offseason saw significant changes, most notably the departure of Paul George, who joined the Philadelphia 76ers, leaving the Clippers to navigate a new chapter without one of their key stars.

Now, the Clippers, led by Kawhi Leonard, face the challenge of re-establishing themselves in a highly competitive Western Conference. Despite the reduced national exposure, their games against top opponents like the Philadelphia 76ers on ESPN and Denver Nuggets will be closely watched as they attempt to prove they can still be a force in the league.

This season is crucial for the Clippers as they look to solidify their place in the West while adjusting to life without George and moving into their new home at the Intuit Dome. Their performance in these high-stakes matchups will be key to determining their trajectory this year.

8. Atlanta Hawks (-3 Games)

2024-25: 2 Games

2023-24: 5 Games

The Atlanta Hawks are entering the 2024-25 season with a reduced national TV presence, down from five games last year to just two this season. This reduction follows a disappointing 2023-24 campaign where the Hawks finished with a 36-46 record and were eliminated in the Play-In Tournament. Despite Trae Young’s strong performance, averaging 25.7 points and 10.8 assists per game, the team struggled with consistency throughout the season.

The offseason brought significant changes for the Hawks, most notably the trade of Dejounte Murray to the New Orleans Pelicans in exchange for Dyson Daniels, Larry Nance Jr., and future draft picks. The team also added Zaccharie Risacher, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, who brings high expectations as a versatile forward.

This season is critical for the Hawks as they aim to rebuild around Young and Risacher, hoping to regain their status as a playoff contender in the Eastern Conference. With limited national TV appearances, Atlanta will need to make the most of these opportunities to prove they can overcome last season’s challenges and reestablish themselves as a competitive force.

9. Milwaukee Bucks (-2 Games)

2024-25: 17 Games

2023-24: 19 Games

The Milwaukee Bucks are heading into the 2024-25 season with a slight reduction in their national TV appearances, down from 19 games last season to 17 this year. This adjustment follows a 2023-24 season where the Bucks finished with a 49-33 record and were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs by the Indiana Pacers in six games. Despite the addition of Damian Lillard, the Bucks’ early exit was a disappointing end to a season filled with high expectations.

The slight drop in national TV games reflects the uncertainty surrounding their ability to bounce back after a challenging season. However, with Giannis Antetokounmpo and Lillard leading the team, Milwaukee remains a top contender in the Eastern Conference, and their nationally televised games will be key opportunities to demonstrate that they are still a championship-caliber team.

10. Chicago Bulls (-2 Games)

2024-25: 2 Games

2023-24: 4 Games

The Chicago Bulls are set to have a much lower profile on the national stage this season, with their national TV appearances dropping from four games last year to just two in 2024-25. This change comes after a season filled with struggles, where the Bulls posted a 39-43 record and were eliminated in the Play-In Tournament. The disappointing finish has led to significant roster changes as the team shifts its focus towards rebuilding.

Over the summer, the Bulls made notable moves by trading DeMar DeRozan to the Sacramento Kings and sending Alex Caruso to the Oklahoma City Thunder in exchange for Josh Giddey. These trades mark a clear shift towards youth, with Giddey expected to play a central role alongside lottery pick Matas Buzelis, who is anticipated to be a key contributor off the bench.

With Zach LaVine and Nikola Vucevic still on the roster, the Bulls have veteran talent, but the emphasis is now on developing their younger core for the future. The reduction in national TV games reflects the uncertainties surrounding the team’s competitiveness, making this a pivotal season for the franchise as they navigate their rebuild.