In order to preview the upcoming 2025-26 NBA season, let's discuss all 30 teams by grouping them into 10 tiers based on their prospects to contend this season. This is the third episode in the 6-part Contender Tiers series, discussing the following tiers:

Tier 8: Gap Year

20) Indiana Pacers (1:33)

19) Boston Celtics (14:26)

Tier 7: Just Frisky, Or Something More?

18) Portland Trail Blazers (26:35)

17) Memphis Grizzlies (36:34)

16) Detroit Pistons (44:09)

15) San Antonio Spurs (55:59)