2026 NBA Season Preview

Another offseason has come and gone, and as we look forward into the 2026-27 NBA season, we cannot forget about the road that lead us to this point. The New York Knicks are on top of the basketball world winning their first NBA championship since 1973, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander won back-to-back MVPs, Cooper Flagg is the Rookie of the Year and seems to be the franchise piece going forward, and the 2026 NBA Draft class looks like one for the ages.

Whether it was through trades, free agent signings or new coaching hires, each team in the offseason made a move towards how the next season and seasons after that will go. Superstars in new cities, rookies ready to takeover a franchise, and a whole new batch of teams ready to chase that Larry O'Brien trophy.

The 2026-27 NBA season might have (in my mind) the most parity we have seen in the league in quite some time. There are at least 4-5 teams in each conference that I can sit here and think, "that team could be a contender." As we end summer and kick off the fall in the best way possible, let's look ahead to all 30 NBA teams in what they did over the offseason, and my thoughts about how their team/roster will look for the upcoming season.

Key Additions: Lu Dort, Aaron Wiggins, Kingston Flemings, Zuby Ejiofor

Key Departures: Zaccharie Risacher, Jonathan Kuminga

Projected Starting Lineup: CJ McCollum, Dyson Daniels, Nickiel Alexander-Walker, Jalen Johnson, Onyeka Okongwu

Starting off with one of the top projected most improved teams in the NBA with Atlanta, they made moves around the edges that continued to build the identity of defense that they showed last season. Lead by the 2025 Most Improved Player -- Nickeil Alexander-Walker -- the starting five is the same returners that we saw from the Hawks in the playoffs last season. But they made a move that could potentially shake up that lineup and cause for even more defensive chaos.

Lu Dort was a staple of the Oklahoma City Thunder's core due to his long tenure with the organization and defensive presence. Unfortunately, the politics and business of the NBA had to kick in, and OKC could not keep his money on the books as he is a pending free agent after this upcoming season. In swoops the Hawks, creating one of the best defensive teams in the entire NBA by bringing in Dort. They had to part ways with the 2024 first-overall pick in Zaccharie Risacher, but it seemed inevitable due to his lack of development and playing time over the course of the past year.

Atlanta also had two first round picks in the 2026 NBA Draft, and decided to select Kingston Flemings (Houston) and Zuby Ejiofor (St John's). Both guys fit the profile of defensive versatilty and can mesh into what the offense can be. Flemings is a projected point guard of the future for this organization, but is going to be given time after the team extended CJ McCollum for another year and the emergence of Alexander-Walker. Jalen Johnson also saw himself visit his first All-Star Game of his career in 2026, and he continues to get better every year as the true leader/core piece for the Hawks organization.

Surrounding these guys are incredible role players such as Dyson Daniels -- who needs to take a leap as a scoring threat to be valuable -- being an elite defender, Onyeka Okongwu, and bench players Jock Landale, Mo Gueye, and newly acquired Aaron Wiggins and Dorian Finney-Smith.

Atlanta has a chance to be a top 4-5 team in the Eastern Conference in 2027, as they defintely have the pieces defensively. It will all be about how can the guys around Johnson and Alexander-Walker take a step up and show they are deep not only defensively, but offensively as well.

Key Additions: Paul George, Mitchell Robinson, Chris Cenac Jr

Key Departures: Jaylen Brown, Nikola Vucevic

Projected Starting Lineup: Derrick White, Jordan Walsh, Paul George, Jayson Tatum, Mitchell Robinson

In one of the most shocking trades of the offseason, the Celtics decided to make an organizational pivot in trading away superstar forward Jaylen Brown, sending him to conference rival, Philadelphia. It sent shockwaves amongst NBA fans in confusion as to why they would trade him away for little value in return, or even more so, to your rival.

It shows the faith both GM Brad Stevens and coach Joe Mazzula have in Jayson Tatum as a true leader and top player in this league. Cap reasons got in the way obviously, but now Tatum can solely be the guy for the Celtics and have a solid cast surrounding him as well. In that Brown trade, they got veteran All-Star Paul George in return. Now George is a shell of his former self that once saw him as a MVP finalist, but if he can stay somewhat healthy, he can be a contributor in his role. 

The Celtics also saw jumps from players like Baylor Schierman, Neemias Queta, and now presuming starter, Jordan Walsh along with others. It seems as if they believe those guys can contribute at a high level around Tatum and eventually be mainstays as well. Peyton Pritchard got to start for the first time in his career, and it wasn't exactly how Boston expected it to go. The other big story of the offseason involved the Celtics being a finalist for Giannis Antetokounmpo, which would've included Jaylen Brown in the deal. But Stevens reportedly would not part with rookie Hugo Gonzalez to make this deal happen. Now, in 5-7 years we could look back and say what a terrible idea. However, we also could look up and think that Gonzalez panned out to be who they expect. 

Veterans were brought in to this team like new NBA Champion Mitchell Robinson to start and build that frontcourt depth, and Mike Conley, who is searching for his first ever championship to be a mentor to young guys and contribute when needed.

Boston will definitely not be as good as some of their peers immediately, but it seems to be okay with the direction they are heading. It might've been a mind boggling move to trade Brown away, but it clears a clog and could work out long-term for this team.

Key Additions: Mikel Brown Jr, Julius Randle

Key Departures: Nic Claxton

Projected Starting Lineup: Mikel Brown Jr, Egor Demin, Michael Porter Jr, Julius Randle, Day'Ron Sharpe

Brooklyn will be one of the bottom teams in not just the Eastern Conference, but in the entire league, but you can start to see piece by piece as to what they are trying to build as an organization. After drafting four different players in the first round of the 2025 NBA Draft, they only make two selections in the first this year, with one of those being Mikel Brown Jr out of Louisville. Great shooter, above average ball handler/passer that has a frame of the modern day NBA point guard. 

Alongside him, one of those four first rounders in Egor Demin will be poised to take a step up in his second year as a shooter and secondary playmaker. In the projected starting lineup, you get two veterans that may not fit exactly what the Nets are doing with their development of youth, but you must have these types of guys for others to develop. Michael Porter Jr was lined up to be traded but ultimately stayed put and over the offseason, they moved Nic Claxton and in a three-team-trade, acquired former All-Star Julius Randle to be the leading scorer.

Day'Ron Sharpe gets the opportunity to start finally after backing up Claxton for years, and he is one of my favorite breakout candidates for this upcoming season. They also have Danny Wolf (2025 1st round pick), Noah Clowney, and signed Mo Wagner to help build up that frontcourt depth behind Sharpe. Keon Ellis was brought in as depth and has a chance for a bigger role to show off why the Kings were so high on him before moving him.

The Nets -- as I mentioned -- aren't expected to be competing not just for the playoffs, but even for the play-in. However, this is an opportunity to see what you have as a young core and decide who to move forward with as we all expect the Nets to make the big swing to capitalize on a young player with high upside in the open market.

Key Additions: Naz Reid, Grayson Allen, Christian Anderson, Hannes Steinbach

Key Departures: Lamelo Ball, Miles Bridges, Josh Green

Projected Starting Lineup: Coby White, Kon Knueppel, Brandon Miller, Moussa Diabate, Naz Reid

Another team early on here that made a shocking trade in moving off of franchise cornerstone Lamelo Ball to Minnesota, the Hornets make a shift in their direction with who they expect to build around. Now, all signs point towards Brandon Miller and Kon Knueppel being the two guys that will represent Charlotte going forward. Miller will have to now take over the full role of being the number one option scoring at all three levels. Knueppel, just coming off an incredible rookie season, will have to now take on an even bigger role not just from the perimeter but inside the arc.

Taking over the point guard duties is the newly paid Coby White, getting to come back home to North Carolina and play for the state's team after being acquired at the trade deadline in 2026. White was able to show in his few years of the full time point guard for Chicago, that he can both score and create for others. The newest member of this starting lineup is Naz Reid, who was the prize possession in the Lamelo Ball trade, and has had to wait his turn behind the frontcourt in Minnesota. He is poised for an even bigger role and allow himself to fully perform as to what Naz can do.

But the role players on this team allow them to be even deeper than they were before. Charlotte moved off of Miles Bridges -- who has been on the team since 2018 -- and recieved both Grayson Allen and Royce O'Neale in return. Those guys are championship level role players, along with Dennis Schroder and Grant Williams, all vets with playoff and NBA Finals experience to help the young core. Second year guys like Ryan Kalkbrenner, Sion James, and Liam McNeely are all expected to take a step up in year two.  In the 2026 NBA Draft, the Hornets grabbed guard Christian Anderson (Texas Tech) and Hannes Steinbach (Washington) who both are guys I am very high on going forward, and can see being future starters and contributors. 

The Hornets will start the season without White and Knueppel, so expect Schroder and either Sion James or Grayson Allen to start in place of those two. Charlotte saw defeat in the play-in to Orlando last year in a blowout. I see growth and development under Charles Lee for this group that is looking to avoid the play-in this time around, but I ulitmately can see as a playoff team in the top 8.

Key Additions: Caleb Wilson, Nic Claxton, Norman Powell

Key Departures: Anfernee Simons, Collin Sexton

Projected Starting Lineup: Josh Giddey, Norman Powell, Matas Buzelis, Caleb Wilson, Nic Claxton

Chicago had a great position in the 2026 NBA Draft being able to sit back and watch the top 3 go until they were able to select franchise cornerstone, Caleb Wilson out of North Carolina. Dynamic defender, with an improving offensive game as he translates to the next level, Wilson is expected to start and be the face of the team for now. But the Bulls didn't stop there with moves in the offseason, arguably the biggest one being clearing out of the front office and coaching staff, bringing in new faces in Bryson Graham as President of Basketball Operations, and Tiago Splitter as the Head Coach.

Graham made a few moves to start off by signing Normal Powell to bring scoring to this lineup, and trading for Nic Claxton to create a dangerous defensive pairing in their frontcourt. Surrounding those guys in the starting lineup are returners Matas Buzelis and Josh Giddey. Buzelis is going to be a staple in this lineup for a long time, but for Giddey, I'm not sure how long he will be here despite him fitting well.

Their bench has a bunch of guys, not particularly deep, but you can tell there is a type. Noa Essengue missed all his rookie season and is looking to crack the rotation. Dailyn Swain was picked right outside the lottery and has upside as a two-way player. Then it's a mix of players like Tre Jones, Jalen Smith, Patrick Williams, and Isaac Okoro who are basically placeholders until they can develop and create a deeper roster. I like Jones and Smith for this team, but everyone is expendable.

The Bulls have found themselves in basically a state of purgatory for the past 4-6 years with no clear direction to where they want to go as a franchise. They finally picked a side going with the long-term development and it will pay off for them in due time. Wilson will be a fun watch, Buzelis needs to make that third-year leap, and I am hopeful that Essengue can show the flashes that made him a top 15 prospect just last year. Splitter is a good hire to help develop and get the most out of his young players, and maybe we can finally see the Chicago Bulls slowly creep back to what they should be.

Key Additions: Peyton Watson, Mario Hezonja

Key Departures: Max Strus, Dean Wade

Projected Starting Lineup: James Harden, Donovan Mitchell, Peyton Watson, Evan Mobley, Jarrett Allen

Could this be the last ditch effort for the Cleveland Cavaliers to win with this core? Changes have been made to this team over the past 7 months to try and try something fresh with the core of Mitchell, Mobley, and Allen. James Harden was brought in at the trade deadline this past season to give more of a confident scoring charge over former guard Darius Garland. Cleveland extended Harden this offseason which is the big swing they took... or so we thought.

Then Cleveland shockily signed Peyton Watson out of RFA that results in a potential defensive nightmare with Watson and Mobley on the court at the same time. They had to part ways with draft capital and Max Strus, but that is a small price to pay to have one of the fastest rising defensive wings in the league. Now this team can finally have what they've been searching for, a defensive stopper to throw on the other team's best player.

They also took a flier on former top 5 pick in Mario Hezonja, who has spent the past few seasons player in the EuroLeague, who profiles as a defensive first wing off the bench. Pairing him with Jordan Tyson who was breaking out last year, Sam Merrill, and Nae'Quan Tomlin and your bench has some solid pieces. They took a hit at some depth with Dean Wade leaving in free agency, but the Hezonja signing should fill that gap. I expect some good things from the former lottery pick as he transitions back into the NBA.

Every year it is a question to how deep is this team and can they stand the test of time in the playoffs with their depth. You have a small void at point guard and center off the bench, but Tyrese Proctor should take a step up this year. Kenny Atkinson has always done a good job with his teams, and is a really smart basketball mind. I do worry about the health of this roster, and can this starting five be the one to get over the hump that they faced in the New York Knicks last year. If not, Donovan Mitchell is going to be looking for a big check somewhere else, and getting stuck with massive contract and no draft picks is worrying. But this is the best starting lineup Cleveland has created and should be in the top tier of Eastern Conference teams.

Key Additions: Zaccharie Risacher, Santi Aldama, Marcus Sasser, Morez Johnson Jr

Key Departures: Klay Thompson, Ryan Nembhard

Projected Starting Lineup: Kyrie Irving, Zaccharie Risacher, Cooper Flagg, PJ Washington, Daniel Gafford

Dallas is in a unique spot that only few franchises have had to work with in the past after firing their coach, Jason Kidd, who lead this franchise to the NBA Finals a few years ago. The real shock was hiring Dusty May fresh off of winning a National Championship for the Michigan Wolverines. In the history of the NBA, it has not been in favor too much of college coaches making the jump. May brings along one of his star players from that Michigan team in Morez Johnson Jr with the 9th pick. The plan is to eventually pair Flagg and Johnson together for a great defensive pairing in the frontcourt for the future. The real test will be how much the vets of this team buy in to what Dusty May preaches.

Kyrie Irving becomes a lost figure in this whole equation due to the fact he hasn't played in over a year, primarily because the Mavericks were not competing last year. As he returns, he will get the chance to be a steady piece at the point guard position, at least for now. There are rumors he could be traded at some point to cash in on whatever value he has left. Joining him in the starting lineup are returners PJ Washington and Daniel Gafford, along with the newly acquired Zaccharie Risacher.  

Zaccharie Risacher was the first overall pick in 2024, and has not lived up to any expectations while in Atlanta. Now, he has a chance to get a change of scenery and turn over a new leaf on his career in Dallas. Along him was Santi Aldama coming from Memphis who has proven to be one of the better 6th man options in the league when healthy. Marcus Sasser brings a secure backup option at point guard with the ability to spot start if needed. Tarik Biberovic is coming over from the EuroLeague and is an unreal shooter and the Mavs are high on his upside as well.

This is all centered around Cooper Flagg being the future superstar that he is. Rookie of the Year was just the baseline for what he can accomplish, and he most likely will be an All-Star in his second season. What this team needs to build around is how they can score off the ball when Flagg gets doubled. Irving can do that, but the rest of the team needs to prove differently, and May has a great mind for the game. History is not on his side, but I will be betting on Dusty May to succeed with this young group.

Key Additions: DeMar DeRozan, Marvin Bagley

Key Departures: Peyton Watson, Tim Hardaway Jr, Jonas Valanciunas

Projected Starting Lineup: Jamal Murray, Christian Braun, Cameron Johnson, Aaron Gordon, Nikola Jokic

When you have Nikola Jokic, you are always a threat to win a championship. But last year felt like the year he looked most human. Now, that is because of his long abstence due to an injury, but in their playoff series against Minnesota, he was forced to do too much which caused the rest of the team to fall out of place. Murray and Jokic are one of the best pairings in the league when it comes to a consistency standpoint, but they have struggled in the past few years trying to find those right role players to surround them. Aaron Gordon is a mainstay, and Peyton Watson seemed primed to be next as well until he left in RFA.

Cam Johnson was decent last year even after missing a month of the season, so he should be primed for a bigger role in year two with the team as a starter. Christian Braun has not cut it just yet for what he is making on his new contract. So the Nuggets went out and signed former All-Star DeMar DeRozan to be their sixth-man off the bench, and filling that forward spot that Peyton Watson had. His game will definitely be interesting to see working with Jokic on PnR and dribble hand-offs. 

They also took a hit to their depth with Tim Hardaway Jr joining the Heat and Bruce Brown still floating out in free agency. But replenished it a bit by signing Lonnie Walker who had been playing overseas, and Marvin Bagley from Dallas. Julian Strawther could eventually find himself starting next to Murray, but they like him as the spark off the bench with Johnson. Spencer Jones tried to leave in restricted free agency to Oklahoma City, but Denver matched the deal, so he returns to help bolster that bench. DaRon Holmes saw limited action last year but with Jonas Valanciunas going to play overseas, he and Bagley will be battling for that backup spot behind Jokic. 

Denver should be just fine. Watson leaving sucks, but it allows Johnson, Jones and DeRozan to shine more. If Jokic and Murray are healthy, they are always battling for a top seed in the playoffs. 

Key Additions: John Collins, Isaiah Joe, Ebuka Okorie

Key Departures: Tobias Harris, Isaiah Stewart

Projected Starting Lineup: Cade Cunningham, Duncan Robinson, Ausar Thompson, John Collins, Jalen Duren

The Pistons are one of the teams I am having a hard time getting a read on. Last season they emerged as a contender in the Eastern Conference, getting the number one seed and best record. Now, JB Bickerstaff is tasked with repeating success with a pretty similar team, but also very different in a way. All things surround Cade Cunningham, who is going to be one of the top guards in the NBA going forward. How they can maximize his play and skillset was something unlocked the past two years under Bickerstaff, and will be crucial going forward. His running mate in Jalen Duren was rumored to leave in RFA, but after a long standoff, finally signed an extension with the franchise to man the middle for the foreseeable future.

A key move made was getting rid of one of the longest tenured, and widely beloved players in Isaiah Stewart who heads to Memphis. The Pistons also lost in free agency a key piece to that locker room in Tobias Harris. They replace him with John Collins who is trying to find his footing and home, now locked in for the next three seasons in Detroit. His ability to run actions with Cunningham could elevate him back to what his career was like alongside Trae Young. Detroit also snagged Isaiah Joe from the Thunder for cheap to take on his salary, but he is a lethal three point shooter.

There are a group of guys who need to take the next step for this team to be as good as they were last season. Ausar Thompson was just given  a 4-year contract extension. Now, he must show a pulse as an offensive threat otherwise he's just the Pistons' Dyson Daniels. Ron Holland needs to take advantage of his opportunity and show why he was a top 5 pick. Joe, Duncan Robinson, and Kevin Huerter fill up that three point specialist role, but the backup guard behind Cade is a battle between second-year Daniss Jenkins and rookie Ebuka Okorie. Both are very offensive driven guys, and Ausar Thompson can play the point in a pinch, but establishing that backup point guard is important in those non-Cade minutes.

Detroit might not be as good as they peaked last year, mainly due to the strength of other Eastern Conference teams. But they still have a chance to make noise, and they are really one more offensive fire powered move away from really making the conversation interesting.

Key Additions: Yaxel Lendeborg, Georges Niang

Key Departures: Quinten Post, Pat Spencer

Projected Starting Lineup: Stephen Curry, Brandon Podzkiemski, Gui Santos, Yaxel Lendeborg, Draymond Green

Man, there was a real chance that Lebron was going to sign with Golden State and team up with Steph and Draymond. Well, that didn't happen, and the Warriors needed to make a pivot move. Well, that didn't happen either. There was also a real chance the Warriors could've entered this season with no Steve Kerr, no Draymond Green, and no Steph Curry. Luckily for them, that is not the case.

So what are the Warriors really made up of this season? They were able to draft a wing to help now in Yaxel Lendeborg, who was on the Michigan National Championship team. He fits the timeline and profile to play with this group, and even won the Summer League title and MVP. They also brought back Kristaps Porzingis, who they acquired at the trade deadline last year to be the man in the middle -- unfortunately, he will be out to start the year due to an undisclosed medical issue. But for the most part, this team is pretty much the exact same carbon copy as last year.

Quinten Post and Pat Spencer left in free agency, Jimmy Butler and Moses Moody are returning from major surgeries later in the season, and the depth has taken a massive hit for this team with really no additions to fill those gaps. Will Richard -- in my opinion -- should be the starter alongside Curry, allowing Podziemski or Gui Santos to be the scorer off the bench and create balance. Other guys like newly acquired Georges Niang, De'Anthony Melton, and Al Horford are expected to fill out this rotation that is very limited in depth with those injuries mentioned.

Mike Dunleavy hasn't done the best job since taking control of the team, but drafting Yaxel and trading for Porzingis might do enough to bridge the gap until Butler and Moody returns. If not, it might be some ugly final years for Steph Curry and it will be focused on honoring his legacy and career while tanking, rather than trying to squeeze every last drop out of the greatest shooter of all time.

Key Additions: Marcus Smart, Bogdan Bogdanovic

Key Departures: Josh Okogie, Dorian Finney-Smith

Projected Starting Lineup: Fred VanVleet, Amen Thompson, Jabari Smith Jr, Kevin Durant, Alperen Sengun

Houston's playoff hopes were crushed pretty quickly by the Lakers, partially due to the fact Kevin Durant was banged up and missed games. Now, this is probably the most important offseason for the Rockets trying to figure out how to maximize Durant while also prioritizing the young pieces that are the future. Alperen Sengun and Amen Thompson are the two key guys outside of Durant to fit that criteria. Sengun is an All-Star, but Thompson (just like his brother) is a shooting leap away from being one of the best all around players in the league in my opinion. His defense, athleticism, positional size and passing is there, if he can shoot above 30% from three, he is a perennial All-Star in this league. 

Fred VanVleet will be coming back off of a major injury and starting, the team signed vet Marcus Smart, who alongside Reed Sheppard, should create a really good strength for the Rockets in depth. As well as second round pick this year Bruce Thornton potentially making a name for himself here in Houston. Tari Eason was paid handsomly and I would not be surprised if he ends up getting the nod as starter over Jabari Smith Jr at some point this season. The team also brought in Bogdan Bogdanovic, who has experience in playoff games being a threat from beyond the arc. Behind Sengun, veterans Clint Capela and Steven Adams are there to grab all the rebounds one can possibly get.

Kevin Durant is in his final stages of his Hall of Fame career. There have been rumors he could be moved again to set up the Rockets for success down the line. In my personal opinion, keep him. Having guys like KD and Marcus Smart create such a high impact on younger players that will only elevate their game now and in the future. Houston is under pressure by most to have a very successful season based on the money they invested. Ime Udoka is looking to finally get over that hump here in Houston and take them to the next level. In a tough Western Conference, it might be a challenge, but this team has the depth to get it done for sure.

Key Additions: Kelly Oubre Jr

Key Departures: N/A

Projected Starting Lineup: Tyrese Haliburton, Andrew Nembhard, Aaron Nesmith, Pascal Siakam, Ivica Zubac

I think people tend to forget that the Pacers were one game away from being NBA Champions just over a year ago. One wrong step from Tyrese Haliburton that not only prevented their chances at a title, but also caused the derailing of the entire 2025-26 season. Now, Haliburton will be healthy and ready to go come opening night and this is a team that is built just as good, if not better than the team that made it to Game 7. Pascal Siakam is still here and is a go to option for this team, as well as great defensive pariing Nembhard and Nesmith. But the big addition for this team was Ivica Zubac, who they got at the trade deadline last year, but only played in a few games due to injury. He will be able to run the PnR game with Hailburton perfectly and can create a beautiful connection.

The depth on this team is a strongsuit for the Pacers as well. Returners like TJ McConnell, Obi Toppin, Jarace Walker, and Jay Huff will provide a ton of spark off the bench. Their one lonely move was bringing in long-time top tier role player Kelly Oubre Jr to have that offensive spark from a scoring perspective off the bench. From their NBA Finals run, Bennedict Mathurin was their spark bench scorer they relied on, but now, Oubre fills that role just as good and can fit next to Haliburton or Nembhard at the point.

Rick Carlisle is a NBA Champion head coach. He's won one before in Dallas, as previously mentioned being a game away from winning a second one in Indiana. He knows how to prepare his players and get the absolute most out of every member of the roster. Look for Jarace Walker to finally break out as this defensive monster that we saw in college at Houston, and allowing his game to fully develop as a rotational big for now. Keep sleeping on Indiana, because once you look up at the end of the season and see the standings show the Pacers in the top 5, it won't come as a shock to me.

Key Additions: Brandon Ingram, Rui Hachimura, Keaton Wagler, Baba Miller

Key Departures: Kawhi Leonard, John Collins, Bennedict Mathurin

Projected Starting Lineup: Darius Garland, Keaton Wagler, Derrick Jones Jr, Rui Hachimura, Isaiah Jackson

Well, this is awkward.

The Clippers went from having a really odd but interesting team to the idea that this franchise has been set back 5-7 years. Kawhi Leonard and Steve Ballmer have been punished by the league for their behind the scenes contract scheme that resulted in massive issues. Kawhi is traded to Toronto, but the biggest issue is the $30 million fine to Ballmer and stripping the Clippers of their first round picks from 2029-2033. For the guys who are here, it will be important to build from within based on who you have. But I would feel slighted and betrayed knowing you were put in this situation in LA without even knowing the repercussions.

Let's talk about who they have on the court; Darius Garland played a few games after being dealt at the deadline for James Harden, but is primed to see a bigger role as a top option. Returning in the Kawhi trade is Brandon Ingram, which is another intriguingly fun player to have on a team like this with Garland. The Clippers went into free agency and legally paid for Rui Hachimura to be a part of this group as well. So there are a ton of weird but interesting pieces to this team that could put together some fun basketball at times.

The biggest issue will be the depth at center, after trading away Ivica Zubac as we just mentioned. LA got Isaiah Jackson in return, who showed flashes before injury with the Pacers he could be a piece, and did as well last year. Outside of him, it is Brook Lopez and the second year Yanic Konan Niederhauser, who I think can eventually be the starter with his playstyle fitting the mold alongside Darius Garland. I am very excited to see how he can develop in year 2 to become a mainstay in the rotation. A ton of other returning role player options like Kris Dunn, Bradley Beal, Derrick Jones Jr, Kobe Sanders, and Jordan Miller all fit this type that Ty Lue loves for his options around his stars.

From the Zubac trade, they lucked out in the Pacers landing the 5th pick in the draft coming to the Clippers. They drafted Keaton Wagler out of Illinois, who might take some time to develop, but has great positional size, court IQ, perimeter shooting, and creates well for others. He struggled in Summer League at times, but I am not concerned like most. They also got two guys I liked in this draft in Baba Miller (Cincinnati) and Nick Martinelli (Northwestern) who both could see the floor as soon as this year.

The Clippers might be a play-in team at best, but they will be sneaky fun watch at times. Very likeable players under a now unlikable owner. 

Key Additions: Quinten Grimes, Collin Sexton, Walker Kessler, Cam Carr

Key Departures: Lebron James, Marcus Smart, Rui Hachimura, Deandre Ayton

Projected Starting Lineup: Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves, Quentin Grimes, Jake LaRavia, Walker Kessler

This is 100% why you make the Luka Doncic trade if you are the Lakers. It was inevitable that Lebron was going to retire in the coming years after the trade, or leave to go to another team. The latter happened, and James is now a Philadelphia 76ers. But Rob Pelinka did not waste any time in trying to fill the cap space that he was able to gain from his departure.

Finding a consistent big alongside Luka has been a staple throughout his career. They pry Walker Kessler away from the Jazz to be that guy. He is a perfect fit with him due to his screen setting and defensive impact to create turnovers into offense. All eyes will be on Doncic and newly extended Austin Reaves, but they signed a ton of role guys around them to fit the mold. Quentin Grimes, Collin Sexton, and Sandro Mamukelashvilli were all signed within 20 minutes of one another (not even joking, it was wild, and Kessler signed 15 minutes before them). Later in the offseason cycle, they also added Matisse Thybulle, Ziaire Willaims and traded for Jaden Hardy. So for coach JJ Redick, he is given a ton of options now to fill out his rotation and the style of play that we saw Jason Kidd do in Dalls for Luka; rolling lob threat bigs with 3 & D wings around him.

Still on the team remains returners Jake LaRavia, Dalton Knecht, Bronny James (no clue why), and breakout candidate in my eyes Adou Thiero. Thiero has this physical presence about him with his athleticism that made him a high priority for John Calipari at both Kentucky and Arkansas. Expect for him to rise up and even potentially start by the end of the year. The Lakers also snagged Cameron Carr out of Baylor who plummeted in the draft after expecting to be a late lottery pick. He can score, score, and score with a ton of physical attributes to like and the hope is he can figure it out defensively.

I really don't know how to read the Lakers honestly. I'm stuck between them outperforming expectations, but also the lack of star power outside of Luka concerns me a bit. One injury and Austin Reaves becomes the only reliable option. Not like that is a bad thing, but still a problem. LA will make the playoffs, and we will see how this depth truly is.

Key Additions: Cam Boozer, Jerami Grant, Isaiah Stewart, Quinten Post

Key Departures: Ja Morant, Santi Aldama

Projected Starting Lineup: Ty Jerome, Cedric Coward, Jalen Wells, Cam Boozer, Zach Edey

Ushering in a new era of Memphis Grizzlies basketball isn't something that has been uncommon for fans in the past decade. But this time, things just feel different from my eyes. Last era of Grizzlies basketball surrounded around Jaren Jackson Jr and the newly drafted Ja Morant. However, the team at the time wasn't very talented as a whole around those two. This time, the Grizzlies are primed to shock some people in the 2026-27 campaign.

Trading away superstar and face of the franchise Ja Morant wasn't easy, and the return wasn't premier either. But President of Basketball Operations, Zach Kleiman had to pull the trigger and move on into a new phase of Grizzlies basketball. The return was Kris Murray and Jerami Grant, no picks included. It caused an uproar from fans about the lack of draft capital and young assets in return for someone this city idolized. 

What made it easier to part with, was Cameron Boozer was coming in to change the culture and narrative. The 3rd pick in the 2026 NBA Draft will come in and be an instant starter after his great Summer League performance. Alongside him they drafted Karim Lopez -- who can be a long-term developmental piece -- traded for Isaiah Stewart from the Detroit Pistons, and signed Quinten Post from the Warriors for depth in the frontcourt. These additions all fit the criteria of what Kleiman is wanting the identity of this team to be -- Grit and Grind 2.0.

A mixture of those previously mentioned vets with experience and toughness, adding in Ty Jerome who is poised to breakout is just another piece in the leadership front. But their young players aren't just inexperienced pros, they are already leaders themselves. Cedric Coward is going to breakout this year, Zach Edey (when on the court) is one of the best bigs in the league metrics wise, and guys like Jerami Grant, GG Jackson, Scottie Pippen Jr, and Cam Spencer are all going to be valuable guys to contribute off the bench.

The 2026 offseason didn't get off to a great start after the tragic sudden passing of Brandon Clarke. This season feels different, it feels special. Not only because of the new era of Grizzlies basketball, but the honoring of a guy who gave everything he loved to the city of Memphis. Get onto the ship before it sails, because once it is out at sea, it will be hard to jump on and you'll be looking in from the outside.

Key Additions: Giannis Antetokounmpo, Klay Thompson, Tim Hardaway Jr, Bobby Portis

Key Departures: Tyler Herro, Jaime Jaquez, Kel'el Ware, Norman Powell

Projected Starting Lineup: Davion Mitchell, Klay Thompson, Andrew Wiggins, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Bam Adebayo

What an offseason for the Miami Heat. Pat Riley finally is able to pull off that massive move he has been searching for years and it comes in the prize of one of the best in the league, Giannis Antetokounmpo. Alongside Bam Adebayo, they instantly become one of, if not the best frontcourt pairings in the league. That is a defensive nightmare for teams. By getting Giannis, they had to part with a ton of their depth and youth which created some issues when it came to constructing the rest of their roster.

Bargain hunting, Miami was able to pull in vets like Tim Hardaway Jr following in his dad's footsteps, NBA Champion Klay Thompson, and Nick Richards. They also were able to grab Bobby Portis in that trade to help with the depth. But there are a lot of returning guys that will play important roles for this team. Davion Mitchell will get to be the starting point guard for this team, and he is a menace defensively. Andrew Wiggins who is a champion gets to be a part of this starting unit as well. I imagine Klay will start for this team, due to the lack of perimeter shooting overall in the starting lineup, but guys like Pelle Larsson, Nikola Jovic, and Simone Fontecchio all could make a case to start and create a big lineup with defense. Larsson was just given a contract extension himself, this could be the case to make him the starter alongside the penciled in group. Rookies Ryan Conwell (Louisville) and his college teammate -- one of my favorite prospects -- J'Vonne Hadley are solid guys to develop and spot in when needed.

Miami is ready to go full force now. The consensus is that they need a true point guard to pair with this group, but it is going to be tough to do so with the limited cap space. I think Davion Mitchell is fully capable of doing so and I doubt Pat Riley will sleep on the idea of making another deal. A contender in the Eastern Conference at least, under Eric Spoletsra, I have no doubts this group will succeed as expected.

Key Additions: Tyler Herro, Jaime Jaquez, Kel'el Ware, Kasparas Jakucionas, Brayden Burries, Nate Ament

Key Departures: Giannis Antetokounmpo, Bobby Portis

Projected Starting Lineup: Ryan Rollins, Tyler Herro, Jaime Jaquez Jr, Kyle Kuzma, Myles Turner

Funnily enough, we get to immediately discuss the other half of that Giannis trade. I hate for Milwaukee that it ended how it did between both parties, I for sure thought he would be a career-long Buck. Unfortunately for Milwaukee, they lose out on a franchise icon, but fortunately enough they were able to get a ton of young pieces back in that trade. Herro is a local guy, so that weighs a ton even if he isn't a part of the long-term plan for Milwaukee. The other guys in the trade Jaime Jaquez, Kasparas Jakucionas and Kel'el Ware are all going to be great pieces to build around and have proven to be impactful players so far. The Bucks also had multiple first round picks and used them both of Brayden Burries (Arizona) and Nate Ament (Tennessee) who fit the timeline. 

On the roster currently, we saw Ryan Rollins have a breakout season last year and solidify himself as a starter in this league long-term. Kevin Porter Jr will slide back to the bench with Herro starting, and play with Gary Trent Jr, Ousmane Dieng, and Caris LeVert. Veterans Kyle Kuzma and Myles Turner will be starters due to their tenure in the league along with their massive contracts. Milwaukee is dying to move on from both, but they would have to attach an asset to even move one of them. 

Ringing in a new era of Milwaukee Bucks basketball, they make a coaching change hiring former Bucks assistant, Taylor Jenkins. I love Jenkins, he was awesome in Memphis, and I hate he was a casualty of bad performing players who are no longer on the team. But if there is one thing that he did well in Memphis, it was taking the young team with no expectations, and outperforming it to get the most out of his roster. He is not afraid to go 10,11, even 12 deep in a rotation if he thinks all of those guys can make an impact on the game. It is a beauty but also a curse; however, Jenkins will thrive in Milwaukee with little expectations outside of developing his young guys, which he did greatly in Memphis.

The Bucks will be in the top 5 of next year's draft most likely, and adding more assets along the way to build a new young core they are forming.

Key Additions: Lamelo Ball, Jonathan Kuminga

Key Departures: Naz Reid, Julius Randle, Mike Conley

Projected Starting Lineup: Lamelo Ball, Anthony Edwards, Jonathan Kuminga, Jaden McDaniels, Rudy Gobert

What a swing for the Minnesota Timberwolves throughout this whole offseason. Going from what they had before and creating the team they have now has been impressive to watch. It all started with dumping Julius Randle and ultimately acquiring Lamelo Ball from the Charlotte Hornets. For years, Minnesota has been trying to find another guard to play alongside superstar Anthony Edwards, and boy did they find a good one. Ball will fit with Edwards as a scoring duo, but also will help Gobert benefit off his playmaking ability. They also went out and signed Jonathan Kuminga to a cheaper deal after waiting too long in free agency. More scoring options around these guys again, which is very much needed.

They resigned Ayo Dosumnu who broke out in the playoffs last season, and will lead the charge on the bench with Terrence Shannon, Bones Hyland, Jaylen Clark, and Joan Beringer who is going to be a big piece going forward and could breakout. Not to mention, Donte DiVincenzo underwent major surgery after an injury in the playoffs, so he plays a factor into the end of the upcoming season.

This team is already so much better than the season before, and now the star power fits one another compared to the years prior. McDaniels is a defensive monster, Edwards can hold his own, and Gobert is a multi-time Defensive Player of the Year. I am not concerned one bit about defense in this lineup. Mix that with dynamic, microwave scorers Lamelo Ball and Jonathan Kuminga, and you now have the best team under Chris Finch since he was hired.

Key Additions: Bennedict Mathurin, Trendon Watford

Key Departures: Jordan Hawkins, Micah Peavy

Projected Starting Lineup: Dejounte Murray, Trey Murphy, Herbert Jones, Zion Williamson, Yves Missi

I have absolutely zero clue what the Pelicans are possibly trying to do. This reminds me of the position that the Bulls have been in prior to this upcoming year. No real additions because they didn't have the cap space to do so, and the pieces they could move are unmovable contracts outside of Trey Murphy whose price is very steep. So I guess run it back then? 

Jeremiah Fears and Derik Queen should be the focus on this team as both are heading into their second year. Willie Green is out, and Jamahl Mosley is in as head coach of the team. So the focus now should be prioritizing the youth and transitioning into that mindset. They acquired AJ Johnson to add to that young group of guys, and Yves Missi has been shopped but is a great complimentary piece to Queen as players. Bennedict Mathurin was their main free agency attraction, but his fit on this team makes no sense to me to be completely honest. They have the same player in Saddiq Bey, and creates an even larger logjam.

Dejounte Murray is coming back into his first full season since major injury, Zion is going to be out there too but you can't count on him to be there every night. In my eyes, it is time to move on and start fresh. Jordan Poole is a disaster contract to have on the books and causes a logjam for these younger guys. Trey Murphy is awesome to watch, and he is the number one guy on this team to put the ball in his hands every time. Herb Jones starts for ths team and Saddiq Bey come off the bench and offer you two completely different styles. 

This team feels stuck in the middle, and they aren't able to decide whether this roster will work or if it needs to be blown up. Most likely in this case, if you are in limbo, blow it up. They are back to owning their own first round picks now going forward, so they can control their fate and positioning in the lottery. Like I mentioned previously, build around Fears and Queen, plus whatever you have as draft capital. Try to cash in whatever you can for the guys who don't fit the timeline. I like Mosley as a coach, and think he is very good for young developing teams, so make this team young and developing.

Key Additions: Andre Drummond

Key Departures: Mitchell Robinson, Ariel Hukporti

Projected Starting Lineup: Jalen Brunson, Mikal Bridges, OG Anunoby, Josh Hart, Karl-Anthony Towns

They finally did it. After long, torturing and agonizing years, the New York Knicks have won the NBA Championship. Jalen Brunson was unbelievable in the playoffs, OG Anunoby made countless impact plays to get them to the title, and Karl-Anthony Towns fought through all the foul troubled games to make an impact. There has been no real moves made for this team in roster turnover, just a ton of bringing back guys who were important. New York lost Mitchell Robinson to rival Boston, but brings in veteran Andre Drummond to fill his shoes, which is a perfect fit.

Landry Shamet was re-signed, and he was a massive part in making the Finals. Other guys like Jose Alvarado, Miles McBride, and Mo Diawara all return to make up that bench. They drafted Tyler Nickel in the second round who had a great Summer League. The thing to watch will be if guys like Pacome Dadiet or Tyler Kolek will find any minutes. The Knicks also brought a ton of veterans into camp, and the man who emerged was former second overall pick in James Wiseman. This could be a great opportunity for him to revive his career and service himself as a great rotational big that gives a more dynamic offensive approach compared to Drummond.

Championship hangover is a real thing, and there is a real chance the health side of basketball could catch up to the Knicks. I hope not, because this was a fun team to watch and root for in the playoffs. If Brunson stays himself, we see Mikal Bridges become more consistent offensively, and no more Josh Hart smoked layups, then the Knicks will be primed to be right back where they saw themselves last season.

Key Additions: Nikola Vucevic

Key Departures: Mo Wagner 

Projected Starting Lineup: Jalen Suggs, Desmond Bane, Franz Wagner, Paolo Banchero, Wendell Carter Jr

Prior to the start of the 2025-26 season, the hype surrounding the Orlando Magic was real and large. After acquiring Desmond Bane, tons of analyst felt that this was the piece they needed to take a leap into the top of the Eastern Conference. Throughout spirts of last season, we saw flashes of how good the Magic could be. Unfortunately, health has been and will be the outstanding issue going forward. With no real substantial moves, Orlando will look to replicate the success they saw prior to Christmas of last season.

Paolo Banchero had an up and down season, but was able to right the ship come playoff time. Franz Wagner is such a fun two-way player but he is the leader in health problems plaguing this team. If Wagner can play 70 games again, he will fully unleash himself and create a dominate 1-2 punch at forward for this team. The aforementioned Desmond Bane had a great season and showed he was a piece to success, but once again, if team health was on their side I would assume things would be different.

Despite no real roster moves, the Magic made a massive move firing Jamahl Mosley and hiring Spurs assistant Sean Sweeney. Things should be different for this group with new leadership; however, a first-time head coach could cause growing pains as the season goes on, but it is definitely an opportunity to grow with the core group.

The biggest two questions will be: Is Coach Sweeney willing to start Anthony Black over Jalen Suggs despite his contract? Will the depth pieces step up and show a strength? First off, Black is the better player at point guard, but in his last year without an extension, it could be hard to put him over Suggs who has been paid and invested in prior to Sean Sweeney being there. This team's depth will be better this year due to the idea players will improve and step up. Bringing in a vet and Magic legend Nikola Vucevic will be a solid piece to add. But guys like Jase Richardson, Noah Penda and Tristan da Silva should all be improving in their first few years in the NBA.

As stated earlier, if this team can stay healthy, they should be perfectly fine and outperform the expectations set onto them. But if they can't get over that hump, we start to wonder if this group of guys will get it done.

Key Additions: Aday Mara, Bennett Stirtz 

Key Departures: Lu Dort, Isaiah Joe, Aaron Wiggins

Projected Starting Lineup: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Cason Wallace, Jalen Williams, Chet Holmgren, Isaiah Hartenstein

The 2025 NBA champions fell short of a repeat appearance in the Finals after suffering a Game 7 defeat to the San Antonio Spurs in the Western Conference Finals. The Thunder went into this offseason knowing that they not only had a logjam of players, but they also had to shed some salary in order to allow those big extensions to kick in for their star players. SGA won back to back MVPs last season and has solidified himself as the best player in the NBA. His two co-stars in Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren are seeing a jump in the next year despite battling injuries. I have no concerns with Williams being the All-Star duo with SGA; however, Chet Holmgren's performance in the WCF was a very concerning sight, which made it very important that Isaiah Hartenstein extended his contract. 

For the guys who were shipped out (Dort, Joe, and Wiggins) Oklahoma City loses some of its longest tenured pieces and great role players, but now allow some of the younger guys who have waited in line, the opportunity to crack the rotation. Former first round pick Nikola Topic had a very busy 2025-26 season, battling cancer and winning, will now see playing time in this rotation to see if the hype around him during the draft is real. Thomas Sorber tore his ACL last offseason going into his rookie year, and missed the whole season, he will now be given an opportunity to develop and maybe crack the rotation.

The wrench thrown into plans for those two turned into the 2026 NBA Draft where the Thunder got Bennett Stirtz (Iowa) and National Champion, Aday Mara (Michigan). Mara should definitely be primed to crack the rotation due to his size, defense, and passing for his position, which the Thunder value Hartenstein's passing greatly in their system. The rich get richer here with Mara, and Stirtz definitely has characteristics which show he is a winning player.

Trading away guys allow some others to get a chance to shine. Bigger roles are expected from others, and the team stays as deep as ever. The Thunder should be one of the top teams in the Western Conference again this year, despite teams around them improving as well. As long as Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is on the team, there should always be the idea of NBA Championship contenders in Oklahoma City.

Key Additions: Lebron James, Jaylen Brown, Dean Wade, Anfernee Simons

Key Departures: Paul George, Kelly Oubre Jr

Projected Starting Lineup: Tyrese Maxey, VJ Edgecombe, Jaylen Brown, LeBron James, Joel Embiid

Man oh man, what an offseason for the Philadelphia 76ers. What seemed like an already home run hit by trading for Jaylen Brown, they then cap it off by signing LeBron James. Jaylen Brown coming to a rival team instantly gives this team a security blanket in the scoring department due to the health of Joel Embiid being in question year-by-year. Now to add onto it, you get one of the game's greats in LeBron James. Although he is into his 40's, he can still perform at an effective level and produce when needed. His wisdom and leadership will also play a massive part for a team that has yet to get over the hump in their quest for a NBA Championship.

Already returning are the three pieces they have decided to build upon going forward in Tyrese Maxey, VJ Edgecombe, and Joel Embiid. Maxey and Embiid are All-Stars already so it is about finding their fit with both Brown and James coming into town, while also staying healthy. Edgecombe has the chance to take a massive leap in year 2 after a great rookie season. The best thing for VJ is that the pressure is completely off of him to be relied on to be a top scorer on this team. He is now the fifth option, and it allows him to develop the rest of his game that will ultimately fine tune him as a complete player.

Philadelphia also picked up some role players to compliment those stars like Dean Wade, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Anfernee Simons, Ariel Hukporti, and drafted Labaron Philon in the first round of the 2026 NBA Draft. The key for those around the starting lineup will be to know their role, be ready to shoot, and play defense forcing turnovers into offense. Nick Nurse is a championship level coach, he has made it to the mountain top once before. Now with the superstars Jaylen Brown and LeBron James, expect the 76ers to be the favorites to come out of the Eastern Conference.

Key Additions: Miles Bridges, Luke Kennard

Key Departures: Grayson Allen, Royce O'Neale

Projected Starting Lineup: Jalen Green, Devin Booker, Dillon Brooks, Miles Bridges, Oso Ighodaro

Last season, the Phoenix Suns outperformed all expectations that were set by media members, and most NBA fans. After trading Kevin Durant, the acquisition of Dillon Brooks in that trade turned out to mean more than expected. Brooks and Booker were fantastic together last year, and allowing the emergence of other role players to new roles. The main piece in that trade being Jalen Green, only played in 32 regular season games battling injuries.

The Suns went into the offseason looking to improve and add another fire-power player to the starting lineup. They definitely got one who can pack a punch... anyways they got Miles Bridges from the Charlotte Hornets, shipping off Grayson Allen and Royce O'Neale who were both pieces to the bench, but eventually were outplayed. Bridges will definitely add some more offense to this group, with solid positional rebounding and some crazy athleticism duo with Jalen Green. They also replaced their shooter in Allen with veteran Luke Kennard who was great after being traded to the Lakers last year. In the NBA Draft, they snagged a guy who was a top 10 recruit last year in Koa Peat to try and develop him into a long-term piece.

Devastating news for Phoenix, starting center Mark Williams had shoulder surgery and will be out for half of the season. They added Duop Reath as depth, but guys from within should get the nod to start and play. Oso Ighodaro is a guy they like a lot, and I was high on coming out of Marquette, but they are also faced with another challenge of developing their first round pick from 2025. Khaman Maluach has a very high ceiling as a big in this league, with great size, length, and an expanding offensive game as he adapts to the NBA.

Depth is key for Phoenix. Last year they saw Collin Gillespie, Jordan Goodwin and Ryan Dunn all take a step up in their roles and solidfy themselves as mainstays in this rotation. Coach Ott was very impressive in year one as a head coach, and if he can take that next step, watch out for Phoenix as a sleeper.

Key Additions: Ja Morant

Key Departures: Jerami Grant, Caleb Love

Projected Starting Lineup: Ja Morant, Damian Lillard, Toumani Camara, Deni Avdija, Donovan Clingan

Portland is doing something, I don't know exactly what it is, but it is definitely something. To start last season, their entire organization was a total mess with the Chauncey Billups situation that resulted in his role being terminated, and Tiago Splitter stepping up to interim head coach. Then towards the end of the season, the organization was sold to Tom Dundon, who is infamously known for being a very cheap owner. Since his purchase of the franchise, he refused to do free t-shirt giveaways for fans, did not let certain players travel and cut costs, and has now said he doesn't think investing in a new arena in Portland is a good idea. On top of it, he refused to pay Splitter his money for turning the season around, and hired Micah Nori, long-time Timberwolves assistant to a very small deal.

Ignoring all the behind the scenes issues in Portland, the bright side was their season was completely turned around from what expectations were under Billups. Deni Avdija became an All-Star for the first time in his career, Donovan Clingan took strides in development to be a double-double guy, Toumani Camara was more efficient on more attempts from three, and Scoot Henderson limited his turnovers while still producing. It was a success in the eyes of Trail Blazers fans because not only did they see development, but they snuck into the Play-In Tournament, ultimately losing to the Suns.

They then kick off their offseason with a massive move bringing in Ja Morant from Memphis. As a Grizzlies fan, I hate to see how it had to end, and how low his value was around the league considering where he was a few years ago. But Morant gets a fresh start in Portland, getting to surround himself with guys like Damian Lillard, Jrue Holiday, and Scoot Henderson, a mix of being the teacher while also a student to the vets. Roster wise, this move made no sense considering the amount of guards on the roster, but it seems like Coach Nori is going to make it work somehow. 

Shaedon Sharpe is going to miss extended time with an offseason surgery, so their depth at the wing position is decreasing to start the season; however, Portland used Jrue Holiday as a forward at times due to his defensive impact. Behind the guys mentioned, there are a ton of question marks. I don't know if Portland has the depth at each position to get it done just yet. Nori was a great assistant who was constantly at the forefront of coaching searches in the past, so I don't doubt his mind. But the logjam at guard is concerning, the depth at center is fine but you have all injury-prone players. Portland needs to make a trade to increase depth, otherwise it could be a long year. 

Key Additions: Darius Acuff, Emanuel Sharp

Key Departures: DeMar DeRozan

Projected Starting Lineup: Darius Acuff, Zach LaVine, De'Andre Hunter, Kegan Murray, Domantas Sabonis

Year after year, the Sacramento Kings are a laughing stock of the NBA. Last year was no different, especially after firing Coach Mike Brown the year prior, hiring franchise legend Doug Christie, then have to watch Coach Brown win the NBA Championship with the Knicks a year later. For once, it looked like the Kings were going to take a step and choose a side whether to compete or rebuild. It made it easier by getting the 6th pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, where they took SEC Player of the Year, Darius Acuff Jr. A prolific collegiate scorer, Acuff was criticized due to his size and lack of defensive ability, but there is no denying his talent. He is expected to be the first wave of a new era in Sacramento.

They waived DeMar DeRozan, cutting ties with one of the three major contracts on this roster. Zach LaVine is still around, and it will be hard to move his salary in a trade, but he is still a valuable player in his own right. Then Domantas Sabonis -- who had been one of the backbones of this team since his arrival -- has had his name in trade rumors all offseason, and even up to this point. 

For the rest of the guys who are left, there are some bright spots to highlight. Both rookies last year -- Maxime Raynaud and Nique Clifford -- looked like they were fit for the NBA, with Raynaud finding a spot on the All-NBA Rookie Team. Keegan Murray is a solid role player with a massive contract, same with De'Andre Hunter who they got at last year's trade deadline. Malik Monk is a major trade candidate with his deal running up as well. Then they shocked a ton of people by signing Ben Simmons last month, giving the former first-overall pick another chance in the NBA. I like the flyer for Sacramento to take on him with nothing to lose if he is hurt and can't perform. Unfortunately as I am editing this to publish, it was announced he tore his achilles at practice.

I would expect Sacramento to blow things up as much as possible and shift fully into the youth movement going forward. As I mentioned, it will be hard to move some of those contracts, but sometimes you have to part ways with things in order to move on fully. Hope the ping pong balls go your way this year Sacramento.

Key Additions: Tobias Harris, Tarris Reed

Key Departures: N/A

Projected Starting Lineup: De'Aaron Fox, Stephon Castle, Devin Vassell Julian Champagnie, Victor Wembanyama

San Antonio were so close to winning it all, but it came down to poor execution and the inability to hold a lead. That all comes with growing pains as a younger, more inexperienced team and now sights are set to get back to that stage a year later. In the offseason, the talk was that this team needed an impact veteran to help push the young guys and have around as another voice. They did that in signing Tobias Harris in free agency, who just a year ago, was noted as a massive help and impact to the young Detroit Pistons squad. Another clear issue was the lack of a running mate with some size in the frontcourt with superstar Victor Wembanyama. Now, Harris doesn't provide a ton of size, but his experience at that position alongside centers like Joel Embiid, Andre Drummond and Jalen Duren will help massively.

The Spurs also locked up Victor Wembanyama on a relatively cheap, team-friendly deal that allows them some flexibility to extend other young guys in that core. The one guy in that young core that is the only loser of the offseason moves is Dylan Harper. He was fantastic in the playoffs, and even better in the NBA Finals. Current starting guard De'Aaron Fox underperformed mightily, just a year removed from acquiring and extending him. Now, from a front office standpoint, I understand why trading him would be a bad idea. But the way Harper played, the last thing you want to do is turn him into the James Harden situation in Oklahoma City over 12 years ago.

The other moves were within the NBA Draft, with two first round picks going to Jayden Quaintance (Kentucky) and Tarris Reed Jr (UConn). Both of these guys will provide a much needed help to depth in the frontcourt going forward. They needed size and they addressed size here by getting two bigs. Quaintance is coming off multiple leg surgeries, so his action may be limited. But look for Tarris Reed to battle Luke Kornet for the backup spot.

Returning all the guys that matter to this team is extremely rare and important. Seeing guys like Carter Bryant, Julian Champagnie, and Devin Vassell embrace new roles will be a key factor to how this team will measure success next season. I expect to see San Antonio in the Western Conference Finals again, at least.

Key Additions: Kawhi Leonard, Allen Graves

Key Departures: Brandon Ingram, Sandro Mamukelashvili

Projected Starting Lineup: Immanuel Quickley, RJ Barrett, Kawhi Leonard, Scottie Barnes, Jakob Poeltl

The Toronto Raptors were in the mix of the Kawhi Leonard drama due to the fact he was scheduled and agreed upon to be traded to the Raptors before all of the investigation and punishment happened. Now that all of that has been settled, the trade is final and a franchise legend who has brought the one, and only, NBA title to Toronto is back home. Parting ways with Brandon Ingram sucks especially after how good he has been since going to Toronto, but it is a sacrifice that was easy to make to get Kawhi back. This now creates an awesome defensive frontcourt with himself, Scottie Barnes, and standout rookie CMB. On top of it all, Leonard was given a 2-year extension worth over $55 million a year, so a full commitment to him finishing his career in Toronto is looming.

They were also able to capture a couple of gems in the 2026 NBA Draft by getting Allen Graves (Santa Clara) who is a swiss army knife type of player with a ton of upside in the first round, and the 2026 BIG 12 Player of the Year in Jaden Bradley (Arizona). Both guys fit the defensive mindset of what this team is trying to identify as. Mix them in with guys like Jamal Shead, Alijah Martin, and Ja'Kobe Walter and now you have a fun group of defenders at the guard position. The two starters in the backcourt bring a ton of offense to the team in Quickley and Barrett. Quickley battled injury last year and ultimately saw time for other guards to shine, but he can be a spark plug offensively. Barrett has shined in his own right since becoming a Raptor as well.

The team is full of depth and role players to compliment the stars of this team. Plus, the Raptors have been in discussions to try and get a guy like Domantas Sabonis to help tremendously on the rebounding front, since Jakob Poeltl has not been either healthy, nor as effective since his extension. Coach Darko Rajakovic is awesome, I wish he was still in Memphis, because he is one of the most underrated coaches in the NBA. With his guidance and the leadership from Kawhi Leonard, expect Toronto to be a fun team to watch and in the mix of it within the Eastern Conference.

Key Additions: Darryn Peterson, Josh Green, Josh Okogie

Key Departures: Walker Kessler

Projected Starting Lineup: Darryn Peterson, Keyonte George, Ace Bailey, Lauri Markkanen, Jaren Jackson Jr

The Utah Jazz took a big swing last trade deadline bringing in Jaren Jackson Jr from the Memphis Grizzlies, and after only playing a few games due to injury, he looks to help this Jazz team turn things around and accelerate the timeline starting next season. But it was not only the acquisition of JJJ that would start that timeline, but the Jazz were able to leap up in the NBA Draft Lottery being given the 2nd overall pick and drafting Darryn Peterson out of Kansas. Who was once the number one overall recruit in the country, Peterson had question marks arround him due to his lack of play and "work ethic" during his Freshman season. None of that matters to me (see my draft guide for reasoning). His offensive game and defensive upside instantly makes him a must-see player in the league.

The starting lineup could honestly be five different combinations of players. But the other mainstays in that lineup will be Keyonte George and Lauri Markkanen. George and Peterson next to each other will be a very fun offensive duo in the backcourt for years to come, as we have seen George take steps up in his game year after year. Markkanen is the other franchise piece, but has also been shopped at times in trade rumors. A mix of starting lineups could have Ace Bailey, who is coming off a decent rookie year and is projected to be another piece of the core going forward, or Jusuf Nurkic, a veteran big man who has revitalized his career since becoming a Jazz. The task for Coach Will Hardy is whether he wants versatility and speed, or if he wants more size. Coming from a Grizzlies fan, Jaren as your center is not the best route to go.

Speaking of centers, Utah's starting guy Walker Kessler left for the Lakers in free agency. So now, they have the opportunity to start Jaren at the 5, or have guys like Nurkic, younger piece Kyle Filipowski, or newly signed Jaxson Hayes fill in. The good thing about this Jazz team is that they are filled with young guys at each position. Now, it is to be determined whether they are contributing NBA players, but they have brought in vets to fill out the rotation as well. For Utah, I want to see if Isaiah Collier can take a step up in his new role, or if Filipowski can take a leap to get in that starting lineup next to JJJ and Markkanen. I'm not saying Utah is a Play-In team or even a playoff team, but I am definitely monitoring what they have going on over in Salt Lake City.

Key Additions: AJ Dybantsa, Khris Middleton, Deandre Ayton

Key Departures: Cam Whitmore

Projected Starting Lineup: Trae Young, Kyshawn George, AJ Dybantsa, Anthony Davis, Alex Sarr

I don't know what kind of grease Washington is used to cook things up over there, but I like it. The Wizards won the lottery for the first time since 2011 and now get to take franchise cornerstone AJ Dybantsa out of BYU to slot right into this very fun and intriguing lineup. The offseason wasn't the slowest moving for the Wizards, after taking AJ then going to trade for Deandre Ayton, sign-and-trade for Khris Middleton, and most importantly -- re-signing Trae Young.

There are so many fun pieces on this team to talk about, that I have changed how this starting lineup will look multiple times before writing this. First let's start with the big guns. Trae Young appeared in 5 games with the Wizards after being traded over from Atlanta last year before being shut down for the season with an injury. The other piece was acquired at the trade deadline, which was to bring in Anthony Davis. Now, he has yet to suit up for Washington, and rumors swirl around whether he wants to be there or not. But at this time, it seems as if he is happy and excited about this young group. Young and Davis are a fun duo in their own rights, and getting to add more offense in Dybantsa, while also creating a great defensive duo in Davis and Alex Sarr is a fun lineup. The biggest question mark is who gets that final starting spot. It will most likely be between Bilal Coulibaly and Kyshawn George. I gave the nod to the better perimeter shooter in George, as he shocked a ton of people in his rookie season.

The bench is full of talent as well. The aforementioned Coulibaly slides in, along with Bub Carrington, Tre Johnson, Justin Champagnie, Will Riley, and the two new acquisitions in Middleton and Ayton. That is a fun and sneaky deep roster in the Eastern Conference. I love Will Riley, he is a breakout candidate for me, and he showed out in Summer League as well. There are just so many role players on this team that can fit alongside each other which makes this team really fun.

Coach Brian Keefe has a very deep roster, and a ton of people criticized the hire of him from within. This is his year to prove he can handle it all, otherwise they will quickly pivot to a new voice and prime this group for the future. Washington sneaks into the playoffs for me, you heard it here first. Even if Davis is traded, the return will be good enough to fill the void and allow this team to develop and compete.