Starting 5 documentary delivered an intimate look at their journeys, capturing the pressure, intense competition, and personal struggles that define their careers.

Several storylines defined the NBA documentary, including LeBron's quest for more championships, Tatum’s battle to establish his dominance, and Butler’s relentless drive to push the Miami Heat further. These were crucial to the show's narrative involving the 2023-24 season. But the 2024-25 season naturally brings new challenges that could result in different roles and results.

Jimmy Butler

Butler's Leadership and Scoring Abilities

Since the release of Starting 5, Jimmy Butler has navigated a challenging 2024, marked by personal loss and professional challenges. Following the heartbreaking death of his father in February 2024, Butler took time away from the court to grieve. He missed three games as he dealt with the emotional toll, openly expressing that basketball was not his priority during this difficult time. His vulnerability brought a deeper understanding of the human side of athletes, beyond their on-court performances.

As the Miami Heat prepare for the 2024-25 NBA season, they are looking to bounce back from an early playoff exit. Last season, the Heat secured the eighth seed in the Eastern Conference through the play-in tournament but were eliminated in the first round. Injuries plagued the team throughout the year, impacting Butler's performance and the overall roster. Key players, including Tyler Herro and Jaime Jaquez Jr., faced significant time away from the game, complicating their playoff aspirations.

With Butler at the forefront, the Heat are focused on re-establishing themselves as a formidable playoff contender.

The Heat's strategy for the season revolves around the strengths of Butler and Bam Adebayo. Butler's two-way brilliance remains crucial as he continues to lead the team. The coaching staff, under Erik Spoelstra, aims to enhance the team's defensive capabilities while maximizing the potential of their roster. With Butler at the forefront, the Heat are focused on re-establishing themselves as a formidable playoff contender.

Entering this season, Butler is determined to contribute significantly to the Heat’s success. His leadership and experience will be vital as Miami strives for a deep postseason run. The team’s goal is clear: overcome last season's setbacks and capitalize on their potential, with Butler playing a key role in their quest for championship glory.

Anthony Edwards

His Potential for Future MVP Contentions

Anthony Edwards entered the 2024-25 NBA season as the Minnesota Timberwolves' undisputed leader following a breakout playoff run. Edwards led the Timberwolves to a surprise first-round sweep over the Phoenix Suns, where he dominated with 40-point performances and key moments, including a highlight dunk over Kevin Durant. His strong play continued into the semifinals, where he guided the Wolves to a Game 7 comeback victory over the Denver Nuggets, taking down Nikola Jokic, the three-time MVP. Edwards' star power solidified his place as one of the NBA’s top young talents.

Following the departure of Karl-Anthony Towns in a trade to the New York Knicks, Minnesota built its roster around Edwards. The addition of Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo provided much-needed for the rising star, allowing him to focus on his offensive and defensive impact. The Timberwolves also added rookie Rob Dillingham, who brings scoring potential off the bench, giving Edwards additional help as the team looks to make another deep playoff run.

In the 2024-25 season, Edwards' performance continued to elevate.

After averaging 27.6 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 6.5 assists during the 2023-24 playoffs, Edwards built on his success with strong showings in the new season. The Timberwolves, under Edwards' leadership, aimed for another competitive postseason push, with Edwards establishing himself as one of the league's best two-way players. His elite isolation scoring and defensive prowess made him an essential player for the Timberwolves' continued success.

Now 23 years old, Edwards is seen as a future face of the league. His unique combination of athleticism, confidence, and leadership puts him among the NBA's top stars. As the Timberwolves center their roster around Edwards, they aim to compete for a championship, with hopes that Edwards can lead them to the Finals after their impressive playoff performance the previous season.

LeBron James

LeBron's Continued Dominance at Age 39

LeBron James is heading into his 22nd NBA season, matching Vince Carter for the longest career in league history. Despite turning 40 this December, James remains one of the top 10 players globally. This season will be particularly special, as he is set to share the court with his son, Bronny James, drafted by the Lakers in the second round. LeBron’s career accomplishments include multiple championships, MVP awards, and the all-time scoring record, but his focus now shifts to enjoying the unique experience of playing alongside his son.

In 2024-25, LeBron’s motivation stems from his enduring love for the game and the opportunity to play with Bronny. He has expressed that this season is about appreciating the moment, balancing his competitive drive with the joy of sharing the court with his son. With the Lakers aiming for a record-tying 18th NBA Championship, LeBron is determined to help the team succeed while embracing the rare chance to play side-by-side with his family.

He will enter the 2024-25 NBA season under a new two-year contract with the Los Angeles Lakers worth $104 million. This deal includes a player option and a no-trade clause, allowing James flexibility in his future decisions. He opted out of the final year of his previous contract to secure this new deal, which is less than what he could have received with a three-year agreement. By g this extension, James aims to solidify his position with the Lakers while keeping open the possibility of exploring free agency next summer.

Off the court, LeBron continues to expand his ventures, recently collaborating with Hennessy to create a special edition cognac bottle. The collaboration features a portrait of LeBron and adds a new red-and-white design to the iconic Hennessy label. As the season unfolds, LeBron remains focused on both his personal milestones and helping the Lakers remain competitive while enjoying his time on the court with Bronny and his teammates.

Domantas Sabonis

His Contributions to the Kings' Playoff Push

Domantas Sabonis played a pivotal role in breaking the Sacramento Kings' 16-year playoff drought, the longest in NBA history. Heading into the 2024-25 season, Sabonis remains a leader for the team, as highlighted in the *Starting 5* documentary that followed the Kings throughout the 2023-24 season. The documentary offered Sabonis a chance to showcase Sacramento's resurgence on a national stage, something that excites him as the Kings typically have limited national TV exposure. His leadership has grown stronger, and with another year under his belt, Sabonis looks to continue his crucial role in Sacramento’s success.

In addition to Sabonis' established leadership, the Kings added veteran DeMar DeRozan to the roster for the 2024-25 season. DeRozan's experience and leadership will complement Sabonis, but Sacramento will still rely heavily on Sabonis to shoulder part of the leadership load. Sabonis' balanced game, which focuses on playmaking and rebounding, will be vital as the Kings aim to build on their playoff breakthrough and compete deeper in the postseason. As a core member of the Kings, Sabonis has proven that he can handle this responsibility effectively.

Looking ahead to the 2024-25 season, Kings head coach Mike Brown has encouraged Sabonis to expand his game by shooting more three-pointers. While Sabonis has primarily been known for his play in the post and as a facilitator, adding a consistent outside shot could elevate his offensive versatility. This adjustment, combined with his leadership and the addition of DeRozan, could push the Kings closer to their ultimate goals this season. Sabonis' ability to adapt and grow will be key to Sacramento's success in the evolving NBA landscape.

Jayson Tatum

Tatum's Growth as a Superstar in Boston

Jayson Tatum remains the centerpiece of the Boston Celtics' success heading into the 2024-25 NBA season. Following their 2024 NBA championship, Tatum signed a record-breaking five-year contract extension worth $314 million, securing his future with the team. As the primary offensive engine for the Celtics, Tatum continues to play a key role on both ends of the court. In the 2024 season, he averaged 26.9 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 4.9 assists, while also ranking in the top 10 in defensive, offensive, and overall win shares across the league.

Tatum’s playoff performances in 2024 cemented his status as one of the league’s top stars. He sured Kobe Bryant’s record for playoff points before the age of 27 and was pivotal in Boston’s championship run. Notable moments include a 31-point, 11-rebound, 8-assist performance in the title-clinching Game 5 and a 36-point showing in the Conference Finals. Despite criticism of his shooting efficiency, Tatum’s ability to contribute as a playmaker, rebounder, and defender highlighted his well-rounded game.

As the 2024-25 season progresses, Tatum's leadership will be crucial to the Celtics' title defense. His tweaked jump shot and offseason improvements are expected to enhance his offensive efficiency. With the departure of key players like Kristaps Porzingis, Tatum’s role as a rebounder will also be more prominent. Given his continued dominance on both sides of the ball, a top-five finish in MVP voting seems possible, as Boston looks to replicate last season's success.