NBA Midseason Report Card: Thunder Soar with A+++, Clippers Flounder at F

December 11, 2025
NBA Midseason Report Card: Thunder Soar with A+++, Clippers Flounder at F
  • 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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