A common method for evaluating and ranking basketball teams in a given National Basketball Association season involves categorizing them into distinct tiers based on perceived strength and potential. These classifications, often created by analysts, fans, and media outlets, provide a snapshot of the league’s competitive landscape at a particular point in time. For example, a team projected to contend for a championship might be placed in a “contender” tier, while a team expected to miss the playoffs might be relegated to a “lottery team” tier.
This categorization serves multiple purposes. It provides a concise overview of team quality, aiding in predictions about playoff seeding, championship probabilities, and individual player performance. Furthermore, the historical context of these rankings allows for comparisons across different eras, illuminating the evolution of team-building strategies and the dynamics of the league. Its creation promotes discussion and debate among followers of the sport.