Winning an NBA championship is no easy feat. It takes a perfect blend of talent, chemistry, and a bit of luck to hoist the Larry O’Brien Trophy. While some teams seem to be perennial contenders, others appear to be stuck in a perpetual rebuild, far from realizing their championship dreams. In this article, we rank the NBA teams that are the furthest away from winning a championship, diving into their current state, the challenges they face, and what they need to do to finally break through. So, let’s take a closer look at the franchises that have the longest road ahead in their quest for NBA glory.
1. Washington Wizards
Main Reason: Lack of a franchise cornerstone and inconsistent roster
The Washington Wizards have been stuck in a cycle of mediocrity for years, and their path to a championship seems more like a marathon than a sprint. Despite having some talented players, the team lacks a true franchise cornerstone who can consistently lead them to success. Bradley Beal, their star player, was traded to the Phoenix Suns, leaving the Wizards with a significant void in leadership and scoring.
In the 2023-24 NBA season, the Wizards finished with a disappointing record of 15-67, placing them at the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings. Their leading scorer, Kyle Kuzma, averaged 22.2 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game, while Jordan Poole contributed with 17.4 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game. Despite these individual efforts, the team struggled to find consistency and cohesion on both ends of the court.
The Wizards’ roster is a mix of veterans and young players who have yet to prove themselves at a high level. With the departure of Bradley Beal, the team will likely look to Kyle Kuzma and Jordan Poole as their primary options, but neither has shown the ability to carry a team deep into the playoffs. Additionally, the Wizards have struggled to develop their recent draft picks, such as Deni Avdija and Corey Kispert, into reliable contributors.
The front office has also faced challenges in making impactful moves in free agency and trades. Their acquisitions often fail to significantly improve the team’s performance, and their draft selections have not consistently yielded the desired results. The lack of a clear direction and the constant roster turnover have only added to the team’s struggles.
For the Wizards to turn things around, they need to find a new franchise player, either through the draft or a blockbuster trade, and build a cohesive, competitive roster around him. This means making smarter decisions in the draft, being more strategic in free agency, and developing a clear long-term plan. Until then, Washington’s chances of competing for an NBA championship remain a distant dream.
2. Charlotte Hornets
Main Reason: Ongoing rebuild and lack of star power
The Charlotte Hornets are another team that seems miles away from contending for an NBA championship. Despite having a promising young star in LaMelo Ball, the Hornets have struggled to build a competitive team around him. Their recent seasons have been marked by inconsistency and underperformance, with the 2023-24 season being no exception.
In the 2023-2024 NBA season, the Hornets finished with a disappointing record of 21-61, placing them 13th in the Eastern Conference. LaMelo Ball, the team’s standout player, averaged 23.9 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 8.0 assists per game, showcasing his potential as a future star. However, his constant injury woes sidelined him for most of the season, as he only played in 22 games.
Mid-season, the Hornets made significant roster changes. Terry Rozier was traded to the Miami Heat, and P.J. Washington was traded to the Dallas Mavericks, which left a significant gap in veteran leadership and scoring. Gordon Hayward was waived, further indicating the team’s rebuilding direction. Newcomer Brandon Miller, drafted second overall, showed promise with averages of 17.3 points and 4.3 rebounds per game.
The Hornets’ struggles are not just limited to the court. The front office has faced challenges in acquiring and developing talent. Their recent draft picks, such as James Bouknight and Kai Jones, never made a significant impact and were left out of the roster, and the team’s free agency moves have not resulted in substantial improvements. The lack of a clear long-term strategy has also contributed to their prolonged rebuild.
Defensively, the Hornets have been one of the worst teams in the league, ranking 28th in defensive rating. Their inability to consistently stop opponents has been a significant factor in their lack of success. Additionally, the team lacks a reliable second star to complement LaMelo Ball, making it challenging to compete against teams with multiple All-Star caliber players.
For the Hornets to move closer to championship contention, they need to focus on building a more balanced and cohesive roster. This involves making smarter decisions in the draft, targeting impactful players in free agency, and developing a clear long-term vision. Until then, the Hornets will likely remain in the lower tier of NBA teams, far from realizing their championship aspirations.
3. Detroit Pistons
Main Reason: Lack of experience and a struggling rebuild
The Detroit Pistons are in the midst of a challenging rebuild, with a young roster that has yet to coalesce into a competitive unit. The 2023-24 season was particularly rough for the Pistons, as they ended with a league-worst record of 14-68, finishing 15th in the Eastern Conference.
Cade Cunningham, the Pistons’ rising star, led the team in scoring with 22.7 points per game, along with 7.5 assists and 4.3 rebounds. While Cunningham showed flashes of brilliance, the team struggled to find consistency on both ends of the court. Jalen Duren was a standout on the boards, averaging 11.6 rebounds per game, but the Pistons’ overall performance left much to be desired.
Offensively, the Pistons averaged 109.9 points per game, ranking 27th in the league. Their shooting efficiency was also a concern, with a team field goal percentage of 46.3% and a three-point percentage of 34.8%. Defensively, the situation was even worse, as they allowed 119.0 points per game, ranking near the bottom in defensive rating. The team’s inability to stop opponents was a significant factor in their poor record.
The Pistons’ roster features several young players who have potential but need time to develop. Ausar Thompson, the 5th overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, showed promise with his athleticism and defensive prowess. However, the lack of veteran leadership and the inexperience of the roster have hindered their progress.
To make matters more challenging, the Pistons have struggled to attract high-impact free agents, and their draft picks have not yet turned into game-changers. The front office faces the difficult task of balancing player development with the need to improve the team’s competitiveness.
For the Pistons to move closer to championship contention, they need to focus on player development, making strategic acquisitions in free agency, and perhaps most importantly, creating a cohesive team identity. With a young core led by Cunningham, there is hope for the future, but significant steps need to be taken to transform this hope into tangible success on the court.
4. Toronto Raptors
Main Reason: Inconsistent play and lack of offensive firepower
The Toronto Raptors have experienced a significant decline since their championship run in 2019. The 2023-24 season highlighted many of their ongoing issues, resulting in a disappointing record of 25-57, placing them 12th in the Eastern Conference. This season marked a struggle for the Raptors as they navigated through numerous roster changes and inconsistent performances.
Scottie Barnes emerged as a key player for the Raptors, averaging 19.9 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 6.1 assists per game. Despite his efforts, the team lacked a reliable secondary scorer to support him. Pascal Siakam, who has been a cornerstone for the team with averages of 21.4 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 5.3 assists per game, got traded to the Indiana Pacers before the deadline, as well as OG Anunoby going to the Knicks a month prior.
Offensively, the Raptors struggled to find their rhythm, averaging 112.4 points per game, which ranked them 21st in the league. Their shooting percentages were also subpar, with a team field goal percentage of 47.1% and a three-point percentage of 34.7%, ranking 26th in the NBA. Defensively, the Raptors allowed 118.8 points per game, showcasing their difficulties in stopping opponents.
The team’s roster faced several changes throughout the season. Key players like Fred VanVleet left in free agency, and the team struggled to fill the void left by his departure. The addition of young talents such as Gradey Dick and veteran Thaddeus Young provided some depth, but their contributions were not enough to significantly impact the team’s performance.
For the Raptors to become contenders again, they need to address their offensive inconsistencies and strengthen their defensive efforts. The front office, led by Masai Ujiri, will have to make strategic moves in the draft and free agency to build a more cohesive and competitive roster. Until then, the Raptors remain far from their championship aspirations, needing substantial improvement to return to the top of the NBA.
5. Portland Trail Blazers
Main Reason: Rebuilding phase and loss of star power
The Portland Trail Blazers are navigating a challenging rebuild after parting ways with their franchise cornerstone, Damian Lillard. The 2023-24 season was a rough one for the Blazers, who ended with a 21-61 record, the worst in the Western Conference.
Anfernee Simons stepped up as the team’s primary scorer, averaging 22.6 points and 5.5 assists per game. New addition Deandre Ayton, acquired in the Lillard trade, provided a strong presence in the paint with 16.3 points and 11.1 rebounds per game. Rookie Scoot Henderson, expected to be a future star, had a solid debut season, contributing 14.0 points and 5.4 assists, though his shooting percentages were a concern, hitting only 38.5% from the field and 32.5% from three.
Offensively, the Blazers struggled mightily, averaging just 106.4 points per game, which ranked 29th in the league. Their shooting efficiency was poor, with a field goal percentage of 43.9% and a three-point percentage of 34.5%. Defensively, the situation was equally dire, as they allowed 115.4 points per game, underscoring their challenges on both ends of the floor.
The Blazers’ roster is a mix of promising young talents and seasoned players, but they lack the elite talent required to compete seriously. The transition phase following Lillard’s departure and various trades has left the team relying heavily on the growth of their young prospects like Henderson and the contributions of veterans such as Jerami Grant.
General manager Joe Cronin faces a significant task in rebuilding the team. For Portland to return to competitiveness, they need to focus on player development, enhance their defensive strategies, and make strategic moves in the draft and free agency. The path to becoming a contender again is long, but with careful planning and development, the Blazers can hope to move closer to their championship goals.
6. Utah Jazz
Main Reason: Defensive struggles and inconsistent performance
The Utah Jazz have found themselves in a challenging position as they attempt to rebuild and reestablish themselves as a competitive force in the NBA. The 2023-2024 season ended with a record of 31-51, placing them 12th in the Western Conference.
Lauri Markkanen was a standout performer for the Jazz, leading the team with an average of 23.2 points and 8.2 rebounds per game. He showed significant improvement and became the team’s offensive anchor. Jordan Clarkson also contributed significantly, averaging 17.1 points and 5.0 assists per game, bringing veteran leadership and scoring prowess to the team.
Despite these individual successes, the Jazz struggled defensively, allowing 120.5 points per game, which ranked them near the bottom of the league. Their defensive inefficiencies were a significant factor in their poor record, as they consistently failed to stop opposing teams from scoring. Offensively, the Jazz averaged 115.7 points per game, but their defensive lapses overshadowed their scoring efforts.
The team’s roster features a mix of young prospects and experienced players. Rookie Keyonte George showed promise, averaging 13.0 points and 4.4 assists per game, while John Collins added 15.1 points and 8.5 rebounds per game after being acquired in the offseason. However, the lack of a cohesive defensive strategy and the need for more consistent playmakers remain glaring issues.
General manager Danny Ainge and head coach Will Hardy face the task of strengthening the team’s defensive capabilities and finding the right mix of players to build a more competitive roster. The Jazz will need to make strategic moves in the draft and free agency, focusing on acquiring defensive specialists and improving overall team chemistry.
7. San Antonio Spurs
Main Reason: Rebuilding with a focus on developing young talent
The San Antonio Spurs are currently in a rebuilding phase, focusing heavily on developing their young talent to lay the groundwork for future success. With a 22-60 record in the 2023-24 season, the Spurs are clearly prioritizing growth and experience over immediate wins.
The centerpiece of this rebuild is Victor Wembanyama, the highly anticipated first overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft. Standing at 7’4″, Wembanyama has shown flashes of brilliance with his scoring, rebounding, and defensive abilities. His unique skill set and potential to become a franchise cornerstone give the Spurs a solid foundation to build upon. His rookie season stats of 21.4 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game are just the beginning of what Spurs fans hope will be a legendary career.
Alongside Wembanyama, players like Devin Vassell and Keldon Johnson are also crucial to the Spurs’ future. Vassell, who averaged 19.5 points and 4.2 rebounds, has proven to be a reliable scorer and a key player in the Spurs’ system. Johnson adds another dimension with his versatility and scoring ability, contributing 15.7 points and 5.3 rebounds per game.
The Spurs are under the steady guidance of legendary coach Gregg Popovich, who continues to mentor and develop the young roster. Popovich’s experience and expertise are invaluable as he navigates the team through this rebuilding phase. The road ahead for the Spurs involves making strategic moves in the draft and free agency to complement their young core.
By continuing to prioritize player development and integrating the young talent into a cohesive unit, the Spurs aim to return to their former glory. The journey may be long, but the potential and promise shown by Wembanyama and his teammates provide a hopeful outlook for the future.
8. Brooklyn Nets
Main Reason: Transition period and lack of consistency
The Brooklyn Nets are in a period of transition, trying to find their footing after the departure of key players like Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving. The past season saw the Nets struggling to stay competitive, finishing with a 32-50 record and placing 11th in the Eastern Conference.
Mikal Bridges emerged as the team’s leader, averaging 19.6 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game. His versatility and scoring ability provided a much-needed boost, but it wasn’t enough to carry the team into playoff contention. Cam Thomas also showed promise, contributing 22.5 points per game, but the team lacked depth and consistent performance from the rest of the roster.
The Nets dealt with significant instability throughout the season. Head coach Jacque Vaughn was fired mid-season and replaced by interim coach Kevin Ollie, reflecting the team’s search for a stable leadership structure. The frequent changes in coaching and player rotations made it difficult for the team to develop cohesion and a clear playing style.
Looking forward, the Nets need to focus on building a more consistent and balanced roster. Strategic moves in the draft and free agency will be essential to complement their current players and create a more competitive team. The development of young talents and establishing a stable coaching environment will also be key factors in their journey back to contention.
9. Atlanta Hawks
Main Reason: Defensive struggles and lack of consistency
The Atlanta Hawks have faced another challenging season as they continue to struggle with defensive issues and inconsistent performance. The 2023-2024 season saw the Hawks finishing with a 36-46 record, placing them 10th in the Eastern Conference and just making it to the play-in tournament.
Trae Young remained the team’s standout player, leading with averages of 25.7 points and 10.8 assists per game. His playmaking and scoring abilities were critical for the Hawks, but the team as a whole struggled to find consistency on both ends of the court. Dejounte Murray, another key player, contributed significantly with 21.5 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 6.8 assists per game, showcasing his versatility.
One of the major issues for the Hawks has been their defense. They allowed 120.5 points per game, which ranked them near the bottom of the league in defensive efficiency. This inability to consistently stop opponents was a significant factor in their overall performance and is a key area that needs improvement.
The team’s roster includes a mix of experienced players and young talent. Clint Capela provided a strong presence in the paint with 10.6 rebounds and 1.4 blocks per game, while Bogdan Bogdanović and De’Andre Hunter offered additional scoring options. However, the Hawks have struggled with injuries and inconsistent performances, which have hindered their ability to build momentum throughout the season.
For the Hawks to become serious contenders, they need to address their defensive weaknesses and develop a more consistent playing style. This involves making strategic moves in the offseason to strengthen their roster, particularly on the defensive end, and continuing to develop their young talent. With the upcoming No. 1 overall pick in their hands, the Hawks have the potential to improve significantly and move closer to their championship aspirations.
10. Chicago Bulls
Main Reason: Inconsistent performance and lack of depth
The Chicago Bulls had a challenging 2023-2024 season, finishing with a 39-43 record, which placed them 9th in the Eastern Conference and earned them a spot in the play-in tournament. Despite some standout individual performances, the team struggled with consistency and depth, which ultimately affected their ability to secure a better position in the standings.
DeMar DeRozan led the Bulls, averaging 24.0 points and 5.3 assists per game, demonstrating his scoring prowess and playmaking abilities. Nikola Vucevic was a reliable presence in the paint, averaging 18.0 points and 10.5 rebounds per game, contributing significantly to the team’s interior game. Before his injury in January, Zach LaVine was another key player, averaging 19.5 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game.
The Bulls’ season was marked by defensive struggles, allowing 113.7 points per game, which placed them in the bottom half of the league in terms of defensive efficiency. Additionally, the team lacked consistent contributions from their bench, which made it difficult to maintain performance levels throughout games.
Moving forward, the Bulls will need to address their depth issues and improve their defensive play. Strategic acquisitions in free agency and the development of young players will be crucial for the team’s success. With a strong core of DeRozan, Vucevic, and a hopefully healthy LaVine, the Bulls have the potential to be more competitive, but they need to build a more balanced and consistent roster to achieve their championship aspirations.
