The 2024/25 NBA season is shaping up to be one for the history books. With an influx of young talent, seasoned veterans still at the top of their game, and the constant evolution of basketball strategies, several long standing records are at risk of being shattered. As fans gear up for another thrilling year of hoops, let’s dive into some of the NBA records that could be broken this season.
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Scoring Titles and Points Per Game
One of the most exciting records to watch is the single-season points per game average. Wilt Chamberlain’s incredible 50.4 points per game during the 1961-62 season has long been considered unbreakable. However, with the scoring prowess of players like Luka Dončić and Steph Curry, this record is not entirely out of reach.
Luka’s ability to score from anywhere on the court combined with his knack for getting to the free-throw line makes him a legitimate threat. On the other hand, Steph’s unparalleled shooting range and the fast-paced style of play favoured by the Warriors provide him with ample opportunities to light up the scoreboard. Every generation, there are a few players who know how to turn the sports betting tables upside down whenever they’re scheduled to play, and Dončić and Curry are two of those legends.
Triple-Doubles Galore
Russell Westbrook has made a habit of racking up triple-doubles, and he currently holds the record for most in a season with 42. But don’t sleep on Nikola Jokić, the Denver Nuggets’ versatile center. Jokić’s unique skill set allows him to impact the game in multiple ways, whether it’s scoring, rebounding, or dishing out assists.
With his team primed for another deep playoff run and Jokić’s role as the centerpiece of their offense, he could very well challenge Westbrook’s record. Moreover, young stars like Luka Dončić and LaMelo Ball, known for their all-around game, are also in the mix to chase down this prestigious milestone.
Three-Point Barrage
The three-point revolution has transformed the NBA, and records in this category are constantly being rewritten. Steph Curry, already the all-time leader in three-pointers made, continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible from beyond the arc. His single-season record of 402 made threes is within reach, particularly if he stays healthy and maintains his usual high volume of attempts. Meanwhile, players like Damian Lillard and Trae Young are also known for their deep shooting prowess – both could have historic shooting seasons if they catch fire.
Assists and Dimes
John Stockton’s career assists record of 15,806 seems untouchable, but the single-season assists record, also held by Stockton (1,164), could be in jeopardy. Modern-day point guards like Chris Paul and Trae Young are masters at orchestrating their offenses and finding open teammates. If they can sustain a high level of play and stay injury-free, there’s a chance they could make a run at this record. Trae, in particular, with his flashy passing and the Hawks’ up-tempo offense, seems well-suited to chase this mark.
Defensive Dominance
Blocks and steals are often overlooked but are crucial to a team’s success. Hakeem Olajuwon’s career blocks record of 3,830 is safe for now, but the single-season record of 456 blocks by Mark Eaton could be challenged. Rudy Gobert, known as the Stifle Tower, is a perennial Defensive Player of the Year candidate and a dominant rim protector. If he stays healthy and plays with his usual defensive intensity, he could make a run at Eaton’s record.
On the steals front, Alvin Robertson’s single-season record of 301 steals might be the most vulnerable. Players like Marcus Smart and Jrue Holiday, who are known for their tenacious defense and quick hands, could potentially challenge this mark if they have standout defensive seasons. Smart’s role as a defensive anchor for the Celtics and his relentless hustle make him a prime candidate to disrupt this record.
Rebounding Machines
Rebounding records are some of the oldest in the NBA, with Wilt Chamberlain’s 55-rebound game from 1960 still standing tall. However, the single-season rebounds per game average of 27.2, also by Chamberlain, seems out of reach. That said, modern-day giants like Andre Drummond and Rudy Gobert are known for their rebounding prowess. Drummond, in particular, has led the league in rebounds multiple times and, if he finds the right fit with his new team, could post some eye-popping numbers.
Conclusion
So, which records do you think are up for grabs? As the season unfolds, fans will eagerly watch to see which players rise to the occasion and etch their names in the annals of NBA history. Buckle up and enjoy the ride, because this season could be one for the ages. See you next time.