The 2024-2025 NBA regular season will be remembered for its thrilling storylines, unexpected trades, record-breaking performances, and the rise of new stars. With 82 games packed with excitement, fans witnessed some of the most memorable moments in recent basketball history.
Doncic’s Trade Shakes the League
The Los Angeles Lakers made headlines on February 2 with a blockbuster trade, acquiring Luka Doncic from the Dallas Mavericks in exchange for Anthony Davis. This surprising move sent shockwaves through the basketball world, as the Mavericks parted ways with Doncic, one of the league’s brightest talents. Doncic quickly made his presence felt in Los Angeles, averaging 28.2 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 7.7 assists per game. Together with LeBron James and Austin Reaves, Doncic led the Lakers to a 50-32 record, securing third place in the Western Conference and a spot in the playoffs.
Jokic’s Historic Performance
Nikola Jokic, known for his incredible versatility and court vision, delivered a season for the ages. He became only the third player in NBA history, after Oscar Robertson and Russell Westbrook, to average a triple-double for the season. Jokic’s impressive stat line of 29.6 points, 12.7 rebounds, and 10.2 assists per game made him the first player since 1969-1970 to finish in the top three for points, rebounds, and assists. Jokic’s exceptional play continued to cement his legacy as one of the greatest in the game.
LeBron James: A Legend Continues to Shine
LeBron James continued to redefine longevity in sports, surpassing the 50,000-point mark in combined regular season and playoff points, becoming the first player to achieve this milestone. At 40 years old, James was named an All-Star for the 21st time in his 22nd NBA season and matched Michael Jordan’s record by scoring 40 or more points in a game at age 40 or older. LeBron also became the first player to record multiple triple-doubles after turning 40. In a historic first, LeBron played alongside his son Bronny James for the Lakers, marking the first father-son duo in NBA history.
Gilgeous-Alexander Leads the Scoring Race
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Oklahoma City Thunder emerged as the league’s leading scorer for the 2024-2025 season, averaging 32.7 points, 5 rebounds, and 6.4 assists per game. His stellar performance put him in contention for the MVP award, highlighting his growth as a key player in the league.
Thunder’s Dominance in the West
The Oklahoma City Thunder dominated the regular season with an impressive 68-14 record, securing the top seed in the Western Conference. Guided by coach Mark Daigneault, the Thunder were powered by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, Chet Holmgren, and Isaiah Hartenstein. The Houston Rockets, led by Alperen Sengun with averages of 19.1 points and 10.3 rebounds, secured the second seed with a 52-30 record.
Cavaliers Reign in the East
The Cleveland Cavaliers topped the Eastern Conference standings with a 64-18 record. Six-time All-Star Donovan Mitchell played a pivotal role, averaging 24 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 5 assists per game. Teammates Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen also made significant contributions. The reigning champions, the Boston Celtics, finished second in the East with a 61-21 record, led by Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown.
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