Here is the outlook for teams in the NBA Northwest Division.

NORTHWEST DIVISION

1. DENVER
Key additions: PG Ty Lawson (draft), Arron Afflalo (trade, Pistons).
Key subtractions: G Dahntay Jones (free agent, Pacers); F Linas Kleiza (free agent, Greece)
Outlook: Adding Chauncey Billups last season pushed the Nuggets from playoff hopeful to title contender. A return to the conference finals is the goal. It won’t be easy keeping pace with the champion Lakers and reloaded Spurs.

2. PORTLAND
Key additions: PG Andre Miller (free agent, Sixers); PF Juwan Howard (free agent, Bobcats).
Key subtractions: PG Sergio Rodriguez (trade, Kings); F/C Channing Frye (free agent, Suns).
Outlook: The talent is good enough. The roster is deep enough. But two questions must be answered as the Blazers seek a second straight playoff trip: Will there be enough minutes to keep everyone happy? And can they stay healthy?

3. UTAH
Key additions: G Eric Maynor (draft). Key subtraction: None.
Outlook: Carlos Boozer didn’t get traded — yet. But the Jazz is ready to move on with or without the All-Star forward after committing to his backup, Paul Millsap. Deron Williams should guide the team through any unrest and into the playoffs.

4. OKLAHOMA CITY
Key additions: G Robert Harden (draft); C Etan Thomas (trade, Timberwolves).
Key subtractions: SG Damien Wilkins (trade, Timberwolves); PG Chucky Atkins (free agent, Pistons); SF Desmond Mason (free agent, Kings).
Outlook: The Thunder is thinking playoffs. While that seems a bit of a stretch, there is no question Kevin Durant has elevated his game to an All-Star level. OKC is on the rise, but is still a year away from flirting with the postseason.

5. MINNESOTA
Key additions: PG Jonny Flynn (draft); G Ramon Sessions (free agent, Bucks); SF Sasha Pavlovic (free agent, Suns).
Key subtractions: PG Sebastian Telfair (trade, Clippers); SG Randy Foye (trade, Wizards); SF Mike Miller (trade, Wizards).
Outlook: Even with “Big Al” Jefferson’s return to health, a lengthy rebuilding process continues. It didn’t help that the Ricky Rubio gamble backfired. Figure on a long season for coach Kurt (Rambis) and the kids.