NBA Midseason Report Card: Thunder Soar with A+++, Clippers Flounder at F
December 11, 2025
With Trae Young out, Atlanta’s offense remains resilient and is boosted by Johnson’s breakout, keeping the Hawks competitive and showing depth beyond their star.
The Atlanta Hawks sit at a B+ grade after overcoming Trae Young’s MCL injury, with Jalen Johnson emerging as a new face and Nickeil Alexander-Walker providing crucial contributions, signaling a strong, adaptable identity.
Brooklyn Nets are rated D due to a rebuild-focused approach, with a youth-heavy roster and standout moments from Michael Porter Jr. amid broader struggles.
Composite team snapshot includes the Clippers at F, Lakers at B, Grizzlies at C, Heat at B-, Bucks at D, Timberwolves at B, Pelicans at F+, Raptors at B+, Thunder at A+, Magic at B+, Kings at F, Spurs at A, Trail Blazers at C-, Jazz at B, and Wizards at D-.
Denver Nuggets are a B+ as they weather a rough stretch; Jokic continues to deliver historic numbers, but injuries and defensive concerns weigh on the team.
Houston Rockets are an A, highlighted by a strong net rating and balanced contributions from key players across the lineup.
The Los Angeles Clippers are rated F as they battle a disastrous start defined by injuries, internal clashes, and dwindling draft assets, raising questions about coaching stability and long-term direction.
This midseason feature grades all 30 NBA teams, highlighting notable highs and lows roughly a quarter through the season and framing the narrative around expectations, front-office moves, and trajectory.
Cleveland Cavaliers earn a C-, hampered by injuries to Darius Garland and uneven play despite Donovan Mitchell’s scoring bursts.
Chicago Bulls are rated a C, buoyed by Josh Giddey’s well-rounded play and a high-tempo approach, yet still lacking enough pieces for sustained playoff contention.
Oklahoma City Thunder receive an A+++ for a historic start, depth, elite defense, and the potential of a historic season.
Los Angeles Lakers stand at A-, propelled by strong supporting cast production and development, delivering high-powered offense even as questions linger about durability of aging stars.
Summary based on 2 sources
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Sources

Bleacher Report • Dec 11, 2025
Report Card Grades for Every NBA Team So Far
FOX SPORTS Australia • Dec 5, 2025
Disaster only getting worse; brutal double trade backfire — Early grades for all 30 NBA teams