The 2024-25 NBA new season is about to begin in less than two months. After a whole offseason adjustment, many teams hope to exceed their expectations in the new season. Although teams like the Thunder, Celtics, Timberwolves, etc. are still strong teams, there will be some dark horses in the league. Today, we will list the top 5 dark horses that may appear in the new season.

1. Sacramento Kings

Key figures: Fox, Sabonis, Drozan

With the addition of DeRozan, the Kings now have the Big Three. DeRozan brings the leadership of a veteran and his mid-range scoring, coupled with Fox's speed and Sabonis' versatility, this trio still has a chance to surprise people. In addition to their star power, the Kings' bench depth is also excellent. In the third season, Keegan Murray is also preparing to enter a breakthrough year, and Monk provides explosive power on the bench. The Kings unfortunately did not make it to the playoffs last season, and the new season will prove that they are still the elite of the Western Conference.

2. New Orleans Pelicans

Key players: Zion, Ingram, Murray

Thanks to Murray's addition, the Pelicans can finally achieve some results in the new season, coupled with Zion and Ingram's explosive athletic and defensive abilities, Murray's contributions on both offense and defense, and CJ McCollum's shooting skills, creating a comprehensive and excellent offensive core lineup. However, the success of this team largely depends on Zion's health. Being able to maintain his health, he is still a highly threatening player in the playoffs. Head coach Green is also very smart and has trained Jones to become one of the best defenders in the league. The Pelicans have not met expectations in recent years, and with a strengthened lineup in the new season, he may still become a dark horse.

3. Miami Heat

Key figures: Butler, Adebayor, Hiro

Never exclude this Heat team, especially since they have reached the NBA Finals twice in recent years, both in the lower half. Butler is known for his heroism in the playoffs and wants to prove to the league that he is still in the top ten when he is still healthy. In terms of defense, Adebayor is the backbone of the team and a perennial contender for the best defensive player. But what really sets the Miami Heat apart is that every year they have a draft drop that becomes the X-factor for this team, and they may even be surprised.

4. Houston Rockets

Key figures: Shen Jing, Jay Greene, Van Fleet, Shepard

The Rockets showed a different resilience when competing for playoff spots at the end of last season. Under Udoka's guidance, this young and talented Rockets team began to showcase their talents. This year, they even received perhaps the best rookie in 24 years, Shepard. His three-point shooting ability and ball control skills provided Houston with reliable offensive options. Shen Jing continues to develop into one of the most versatile ball carrying centers in the league, and Jay Green is also about to become an All Star with excellent athletic ability. Van Fleet's championship experience cannot be underestimated, and the Rockets have gradually established one of the most balanced lineups in the league, which has the opportunity to disrupt the Western Conference.

5. San Antonio Spurs

Key figures: Wenban Yama, Paul, Vasil

The Spurs do not yet have the strength to compete for the championship, but they will definitely bring surprises to fans and return to the playoffs. Under the guidance of Popovich, the Spurs will combine young talent with veteran leadership. Wenban Yama is the key to the rise of the Spurs this time. He has proven himself to be an epoch-making player in just one season. Paul's arrival is priceless for a rising young team. His pace and guidance of young players are exactly what the Spurs need, not only helping Wenban Yama, but also the development of players such as Devin Vasil, and improving their competitiveness.