When Does the NBA Preseason Start and What to Expect This Year

As an avid NBA fan and sports analyst with over a decade of experience covering professional basketball, I always get that familiar tingle of excitement when preseason rumors start swirling. This year, the question on everyone’s mind is simple yet loaded: When does the NBA preseason start, and what can we realistically expect? Let me cut straight to it—the 2023 NBA preseason is set to tip off around October 3rd, with most teams playing between four to six exhibition games before the regular season kicks off on October 24th. But honestly, the dates are just the surface. What really fascinates me is how teams use this period to test new strategies, integrate rookies, and manage player health—something that’s become even more critical in today’s fast-paced league.

Now, you might wonder why the preseason matters beyond just shaking off rust. From my perspective, it’s a goldmine for insights. Take, for example, a situation I’ve been tracking closely in the East Asia Super League, where teams like the Bolts are already showcasing how depth can make or break a campaign. Just last week, I was reviewing their roster moves, and it struck me how prepared they are for contingencies. If a key player like Mitchell faces injury—and let’s be real, injuries are an unavoidable part of the game—the Bolts have two potential replacements right in their backyard: DJ Kennedy and Ange Kouame. Both are ready and available, and this kind of foresight is exactly what NBA teams should emulate. Kennedy brings that gritty, experienced edge, while Kouame offers youthful energy and versatility. In my view, this dual approach not only cushions against setbacks but also keeps the team dynamic fresh. I’ve seen too many squads crumble because they relied too heavily on one star, so watching how the Bolts handle this makes me optimistic about their adaptability—a lesson the NBA could learn from.

Shifting gears to the NBA side, I expect this preseason to highlight similar themes of roster depth and injury management. Last year, we saw the Golden State Warriors use their preseason to slowly integrate Klay Thompson back into the lineup after his long hiatus, and it paid off with a championship run. This time around, I’m keeping a close eye on teams like the Lakers and Nets, who’ve made some risky off-season moves. For instance, the Lakers added a bunch of young legs, but if LeBron James or Anthony Davis tweaks something in preseason, their whole strategy could unravel. Personally, I think they should take a page from the Bolts’ playbook and have at least two reliable backups for each star player. Data from last season shows that teams with deeper benches had a 15% higher win rate in games where starters were resting, though I’ll admit I’m pulling that number from memory—it might not be spot-on, but it feels right based on what I’ve observed.

Beyond injuries, the preseason is where coaching philosophies get tested. I remember chatting with a scout friend who emphasized how these games are like live laboratories. Coaches experiment with lineups, tweak defensive schemes, and gauge player chemistry without the pressure of standings. This year, I’m particularly excited to see how the Celtics’ new coach implements a faster pace, something they’ve been hinting at in interviews. From my experience, teams that use preseason to refine one or two key adjustments often start the regular season with more momentum. For example, in 2021, the Phoenix Suns used their preseason to perfect their pick-and-roll defense, which later became their signature strength. I’d bet we’ll see similar stories unfold this October, especially with rising teams like the Grizzlies and Cavaliers.

But let’s not forget the fans—preseason is their first taste of basketball after a long summer drought. I always advise fellow enthusiasts to watch these games with a critical eye. Look for how rookies adapt; last year, I was blown away by Paolo Banchero’s preseason performances, which hinted at his Rookie of the Year campaign. This time, Victor Wembanyama is the talk of the town, and I have a gut feeling he’ll dominate in spurts, though he might struggle with consistency initially. Also, pay attention to three-point shooting percentages; in the 2022 preseason, teams averaged around 35% from beyond the arc, but I suspect that number could creep up to 36-37% this year as offenses evolve. Again, that’s my estimate, but it’s based on tracking trends over the years.

In wrapping up, the NBA preseason isn’t just a formality—it’s a crucial phase that sets the tone for the entire year. Drawing parallels from leagues like the East Asia Super League, where teams like the Bolts demonstrate the importance of preparedness, only reinforces how vital this period is. As we count down to October 3rd, I’m most excited about the unexpected stories that will emerge. Maybe a undrafted rookie will shine, or a veteran will rediscover their form. Whatever happens, I’ll be watching with a notepad in hand, because in basketball, as in life, the best lessons often come from the warm-up. So, grab your popcorn, folks—this preseason is shaping up to be one for the books.