The 2025 NBA season is shaping up to be a thrilling spectacle, with some struggling teams showing signs of a potential resurgence. Whether it’s through key players returning from injury, trade rumors gaining momentum, or young talent stepping up, several teams at the bottom of the standings could surprise everyone by turning their seasons around. Let’s dive into the teams with the worst records and their potential for a comeback, explore ongoing trade rumors, and examine how betting on consistently underperforming teams might be easier for sports bettors.
Teams with the Worst Records Poised to Improve
NBA Predictions for the Philadelphia 76ers
The 76ers have had a rough start to the 2025 season, but Joel Embiid’s recent return from injury could be the spark they need. Despite their struggles, Embiid remains one of the league’s most dominant forces, and his presence on the court is a game-changer. Tyrese Maxey has continued to develop into a reliable scoring option, and Tobias Harris adds veteran leadership. Rumors suggest the team is exploring trades to strengthen its bench, which could further bolster their playoff hopes.
NBA Predictions for the San Antonio Spurs
With Victor Wembanyama in his sophomore season, the Spurs are sitting on a goldmine of potential. Though their current record doesn’t reflect it, Wembanyama has shown flashes of brilliance, and the team’s young core is steadily improving. Head coach Gregg Popovich’s leadership remains invaluable, and a few veteran additions via trade could elevate this team significantly.
NBA Predictions for the Charlotte Hornets
The Hornets are currently in the basement of the Eastern Conference, but LaMelo Ball’s playmaking ability offers a glimmer of hope. With rumors swirling about a potential trade to acquire a versatile forward, the Hornets could improve their defensive struggles and find themselves climbing the standings. Brandon Miller, their recent draft pick, has also started to show why he was such a coveted prospect.
NBA Predictions for the Detroit Pistons
The Pistons have one of the most exciting young rosters in the league, led by Cade Cunningham and Jaden Ivey. While their record may not show immediate success, the foundation for future greatness is there. If Detroit’s front office can land a big-name player or address their shooting inefficiencies, the Pistons could become one of the league’s most exciting comeback stories.
NBA Predictions for the Washington Wizards
The Wizards are rebuilding, but they’ve shown potential with Kyle Kuzma and Jordan Poole leading the way. Poole, known for his scoring bursts, has struggled with consistency, but if he finds his rhythm, the Wizards could become competitive. Trade rumors surrounding Poole and Kuzma could also signal a reshaping of the roster aimed at future success.
Trade Rumors Heating Up
As the trade deadline approaches, teams are evaluating their options to improve mid-season. Here are some notable rumors:
- 76ers Looking for Bench Depth: With Joel Embiid healthy, Philadelphia is reportedly exploring deals for reliable shooters and backup big men. Names like Eric Gordon and Jonas Valančiūnas have been floated as potential targets.
- Spurs Eyeing Veteran Leadership: San Antonio is rumored to be in talks with teams about acquiring a veteran point guard to mentor their young players.
- Hornets in the Market for Defense: Charlotte has been linked to players like OG Anunoby and Jae Crowder to address their defensive shortcomings.
- Wizards Exploring a Kuzma Trade: If Washington decides to go full rebuild, Kuzma could be on the move, with teams like the Lakers and Heat reportedly interested.
Consistently Bad Teams and Sports Betting
For sports bettors, consistently underperforming teams present unique opportunities, especially when using platforms like Betway. Here’s how these teams can align with smart betting strategies:
Predictable Patterns
Teams with poor records often follow recognizable trends, such as struggling to cover the spread against top-tier opponents. This predictability makes it easier to identify games with strong betting value. Betway provides detailed analytics and odds that can help bettors capitalize on these trends effectively.
Value in Underdogs
While betting on these teams to win outright may not be the safest choice, they can offer excellent value as underdogs in matchups against mid-tier teams. Betway often highlights these underdog matchups, giving bettors the chance to exploit favorable odds and maximize returns.
Player Prop Bets
Even teams at the bottom of the standings have standout players. Bettors can leverage prop bets for stars like LaMelo Ball or Victor Wembanyama, focusing on individual stats such as points, rebounds, or assists. Betway’s extensive selection of prop bets allows users to customize their wagers for a more strategic approach.
In-Game Betting Opportunities
Consistently bad teams often show patterns of late-game comebacks or collapse, making them ideal for live betting. Betway’s real-time betting options enable users to place wagers during the game, seizing opportunities as the action unfolds.
By leveraging platforms like Betway, sports bettors can turn the struggles of underperforming teams into strategic advantages, making every game an exciting opportunity.
NBA Predictions: What’s Next for Struggling Teams?
Philadelphia 76ers
The 76ers’ season hinges on the health and performance of Joel Embiid, their franchise cornerstone. With Embiid’s return, the team gains a dominant scorer and a defensive anchor who can transform their interior presence. The potential addition of a reliable bench scorer or perimeter defender could stabilize the team’s rotation and close the gaps exposed in Embiid’s absence. Head coach Nick Nurse, known for his tactical creativity, will likely experiment with lineups that maximize the team’s offensive efficiency while tightening up on defense.
Prediction: The 76ers will rally in the second half of the season, leveraging Embiid’s MVP-caliber talent and potential trade upgrades to clinch a play-in tournament spot. Once there, their experience and star power could make them a formidable dark horse in the playoffs.
San Antonio Spurs
The Spurs’ season is centered around the growth of their young star Victor Wembanyama, whose potential as a two-way player has already drawn comparisons to Hall of Fame talents. Alongside Devin Vassell and Keldon Johnson, the Spurs are fostering a core that could dominate for years to come. However, their lack of veteran leadership and depth in critical positions has left them struggling to close out games against stronger opponents. The rumored pursuit of a seasoned point guard or defensive specialist could accelerate their timeline to competitiveness.
Prediction: The Spurs will finish just outside the play-in tournament but will use the season as a developmental milestone. Expect a more cohesive and confident squad in 2026 as Wembanyama and his teammates continue to refine their games under Gregg Popovich’s legendary guidance.
Charlotte Hornets
Despite their poor record, the Hornets have reasons for optimism, starting with LaMelo Ball’s ability to orchestrate the offense and create scoring opportunities. Brandon Miller, the second overall pick, has shown flashes of brilliance, particularly on the offensive end, but his defensive inconsistency remains a concern. If the Hornets can secure a trade for a defensive stalwart like OG Anunoby or Jae Crowder, they could address one of their most glaring weaknesses. Additionally, improving their three-point shooting and overall efficiency will be key to turning the corner.
Prediction: Charlotte’s ceiling this season depends on their ability to improve defensively. With the right trade, they could climb to the 10th seed, entering the play-in tournament as a scrappy underdog capable of pulling off an upset.
Detroit Pistons
The Pistons’ young core, led by Cade Cunningham, Jaden Ivey, and Jalen Duren, offers a glimpse into a promising future. Cunningham’s court vision and leadership are developing into the foundation of a franchise centerpiece, while Ivey’s athleticism adds a dynamic scoring option. However, their lack of consistent perimeter shooting and defensive lapses have hindered their ability to close out games. Rumors suggest Detroit is actively exploring the market for a veteran wing who can contribute on both ends of the floor.
Prediction: Detroit will demonstrate a marked improvement in the second half of the season, showcasing the growth of their young stars. While wins may remain elusive, the team’s progress will position them as a rising threat in the 2026 season.
Washington Wizards
The Wizards are in a transitional phase, with Kyle Kuzma and Jordan Poole tasked with leading a roster that lacks depth and defensive identity. Kuzma’s consistency and Poole’s streaky scoring highlight their potential, but their inability to gel as a cohesive unit has kept the team in the league’s basement. Trade rumors around Kuzma could signal a shift toward a full rebuild, with the team possibly aiming to stockpile draft picks and create cap space for future moves.
Prediction: Washington is likely to embrace a rebuild by trading Kuzma and focusing on long-term growth. Their performance this season may not improve significantly, but their position in the upcoming draft could yield the foundational piece they need to build around.
A Season of Redemption?
As the 2025 NBA season unfolds, the potential for redemption is high for several struggling teams. From the star power of Joel Embiid to the generational talent of Victor Wembanyama, these teams have the tools to turn their seasons around. Whether through trades, player development, or sheer resilience, the league’s underdogs may surprise us yet.
For bettors, fans, and analysts alike, the drama and unpredictability of the NBA make it a spectacle worth following—especially when trying to predict the improbable comebacks of the league’s most determined teams.
