NBA season preview: Golden State Warriors bid for back-to-back titles and LeBron James eyes scoring record as new year tips off

Golden State Warriors are aiming for a second consecutive NBA title. They play the Los Angeles Lakers in their opening game at Chase Center in San Francisco on Tuesday. Draymond Green punched Jordan Poole during a practice session earlier this month. Pooel has since apologized for the incident. He recently signed a new four-year deal worth up to $140 million.

LeBron James is 1,326 points away from passing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's all-time scoring record. The 37-year-old is forecasted to overtake Abdul Jab bar's tally in the 49th game of the season. Last year's champions Golden State Warriors are looking to defend their title. Lakers coach Darvin Ham is hungry after last year’s disappointment. Phoenix Suns, LA Clippers, Milwaukee Bucks and Boston Celtics are also in contention for Larry O”Brien trophy.

Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic was named the NBA's Most Valuable Player for the second time in a row last season. He pipped Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid and Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo to the award. Dallas Mavericks star Luka Doncic will also be in the running for MVP.

The NBA season starts this week. Victor Wembanyama, 18, is a promising player who has attracted the attention of NBA scouts. He is expected to be the top pick in next year's draft. Teams might be tanking this season to get better odds at drafting him next season.