NBA Preseason Recap: Roster Shakeups, Rising Stars, and Early Predictions
Kenneth Lionel
Staff Writer
With the 2025–26 NBA regular season just days away, anticipation across the basketball world is reaching its peak. Training camps have wrapped, the preseason is in the books, and every franchise—from perennial contenders to rebuilding projects—is setting its sights on one goal: the Larry O’Brien Trophy.
This offseason delivered one of the most unpredictable stretches in recent memory, filled with blockbuster trades, controversial draft decisions, and eye-opening preseason performances that have reshaped the league’s balance of power. As we gear up for opening night, here’s a detailed breakdown of where things stand across both conferences—and some early predictions for who might rise, fall, and ultimately reign supreme.
Western Conference: Power Shifts and Fresh Contenders
Houston Rockets – The Durant Era Begins
The biggest headline of the summer came out of Houston, where the Rockets pulled off a stunning deal to acquire Kevin Durant from the Phoenix Suns. The move, which paired Durant with a young core led by Jalen Green, Alperen Şengün, and Amen Thompson, instantly thrust Houston into the championship conversation.
Durant, entering his 18th season, remains one of the league’s most efficient scorers. His 2024–25 campaign—where he averaged 26.8 points on 52% shooting—showed little sign of decline. What makes this move even more intriguing is the contrast between Durant’s veteran poise and Houston’s youthful energy. Early preseason games demonstrated encouraging chemistry, particularly in two-man actions between Durant and Şengün. Analysts believe this combination of experience and raw athleticism could help the Rockets end their five-year playoff drought and possibly make a deep postseason push.
Oklahoma City Thunder – The Defending Champs
The defending champions return with the same confidence that carried them through last year’s title run. The Oklahoma City Thunder, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (SGA) and Chet Holmgren, have largely maintained their core roster, emphasizing continuity over change. Coach Mark Daigneault’s system—rooted in ball movement, defensive versatility, and spacing—proved nearly flawless in last season’s playoffs.
During the preseason, SGA looked midseason-ready, averaging 24 points in limited minutes, while Holmgren continued to expand his offensive arsenal. The addition of veteran guard Malcolm Brogdon, who joined via free agency, brings another steady hand to their second unit. While repeating as champions in today’s NBA is notoriously difficult, the Thunder’s combination of youth, chemistry, and discipline makes them the most stable powerhouse in the league.
Dallas Mavericks – Rebuilding Around the Future
Perhaps the most shocking transaction of the summer was the Dallas Mavericks’ decision to trade Luka Dončić to the Lakers for the No. 1 overall pick and multiple future assets. With that pick, Dallas selected Cooper Flagg, one of the most hyped American prospects since LeBron James.
Flagg’s defensive instincts and polished shooting mechanics have already turned heads. In preseason play, the 18-year-old averaged 18.5 points, 6 rebounds, and 3 assists, displaying poise well beyond his years. Dallas also retooled its frontcourt, bringing in Anthony Davis, who remains one of the league’s premier defenders when healthy. With Kyrie Irving expected to return from injury in January, the Mavericks’ season will likely hinge on how quickly Flagg can adapt to the physicality of the NBA and whether Davis can stay on the floor. If those pieces align, Dallas could quietly reemerge as a playoff threat.
Minnesota Timberwolves – The Rising Threat
After reaching the Western Conference Finals last season, the Minnesota Timberwolves look ready to take the next step. With Anthony Edwards emerging as a legitimate superstar and Julius Randle embracing a more defined role, Minnesota’s chemistry has never looked stronger. The addition of sophomore guard Rob Dillingham, selected 8th overall, has brought a new level of excitement.
Dillingham’s dazzling 27-point preseason debut showcased his elite handle and shot creation—traits that complement Edwards’ attacking style perfectly. Defensively, Jaden McDaniels continues to be one of the most underrated wings in basketball. Analysts across ESPN and Bleacher Report have already tabbed Minnesota as a “dark horse” title favorite, and with their blend of youth and experience, that label might not last long.
Denver Nuggets – A New Look Around Jokic
For the Denver Nuggets, this offseason marked a philosophical shift. Rather than relying on depth-heavy lineups, the front office opted to surround Nikola Jokić with elite floor spacers, trading for Cam Johnson and Tim Hardaway Jr.. The goal is clear: spread the floor and let Jokic’s playmaking thrive.
However, losing key rotation players like Aaron Gordon and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope could weaken their defensive identity. Jokic, still arguably the best player in basketball, will once again be asked to carry a heavy load. Denver’s offensive efficiency remains elite, but whether this new-look roster can defend championship-caliber wings in the playoffs is the looming question.
San Antonio Spurs – The Silent Contenders
If one team in the West has the potential to surprise everyone, it’s the San Antonio Spurs. Victor Wembanyama has taken another massive leap, averaging 22 points, 11 rebounds, and 4 blocks per game in the preseason. His footwork, perimeter defense, and emerging offensive confidence have sparked comparisons to early Kevin Garnett.
The addition of De’Aaron Fox, acquired via trade from Sacramento, gives the Spurs a legitimate All-Star point guard who can push the tempo. Rookie Carter Bryant has also impressed with his versatility and maturity. Under Gregg Popovich’s guidance, this Spurs team could quietly become a top four seed if its young core continues to progress.
Eastern Conference: Wide Open and Full of Questions
Milwaukee Bucks – Redemption Season
Last season’s disappointment still lingers in Milwaukee, but a healthy roster brings renewed optimism. Giannis Antetokounmpo and Khris Middleton all enter the year injury-free, ready to prove that their championship window isn’t closed just yet. On the other hand, the Bucks waived Damian and acquired Myles Turner.
Statistically, the Bucks were dominant when their Big Three shared the floor—posting a +9.8 net rating in those minutes. Their challenge remains depth and defense, particularly after losing Brook Lopez to free agency. New head coach Adrian Griffin Jr. has emphasized pace and ball movement in preseason play, suggesting a more dynamic offense built around Giannis’ playmaking rather than isolation-heavy sets.
New York Knicks – Ready for the Next Step
The New York Knicks enter the season with momentum, swagger, and a belief that they belong among the East’s elite. Jalen Brunson continues to elevate his game, while offseason addition Jordan Clarkson adds scoring depth off the bench. RJ Barrett’s improved shot selection and Mitchell Robinson’s defensive dominance further strengthen a team already known for its toughness.
Madison Square Garden was electric during preseason games, and fans are dreaming of a potential Eastern Conference Finals berth—their first since 2000. With the East slightly less stacked than in previous years, the Knicks might finally be positioned to make a serious run.
Indiana Pacers – Resilient Without Haliburton
Despite the loss of Tyrese Haliburton to an Achilles injury, the Indiana Pacers showed surprising resilience throughout the preseason. Led by Bennedict Mathurin and Obi Toppin, Indiana’s up-tempo offense remained among the league’s best in transition points.
Their system under coach Rick Carlisle emphasizes spacing and unselfishness, and the Pacers’ preseason win over the Timberwolves demonstrated their ability to punch above their weight. If Haliburton returns by midseason, Indiana could solidify itself as one of the East’s most balanced and dangerous young squads.
Boston Celtics – Injury Concerns Mount
The Boston Celtics enter the season facing more uncertainty than they’ve had in years. Jayson Tatum’s Achilles injury is a major blow, and the offseason trade sending Al Horford to Golden State further eroded their veteran depth. Boston’s success now hinges on whether Jaylen Brown can take on a larger offensive load and whether Ben Simmons, who joined the team in free agency, can rediscover his All-Star form. They move Payton Pritchard to the starting Point Guard position to lead the offense, with Anfernee Simons helping him off the bench.
While the Celtics’ defense remains solid under coach Joe Mazzulla, their offensive cohesion looked shaky in preseason play. If Tatum’s recovery lingers, Boston’s stranglehold on the top of the East could finally loosen.
Cleveland Cavaliers – Searching for Answers
After an encouraging 2024 campaign, the Cleveland Cavaliers stumbled through the preseason, looking disjointed and inconsistent. Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland remain elite offensive talents, but chemistry questions persist—particularly with rumors of Mitchell’s long-term commitment swirling again.
Cleveland’s defensive anchor Evan Mobley continues to develop, but their offensive stagnation has become a recurring issue. If they can’t find rhythm early in the season, the Cavs risk sliding down the Eastern hierarchy.
Other Notable Teams and Storylines
• The Golden State Warriors made quiet but strategic moves, acquiring Jimmy Butler and Al Horford to bolster experience around Jonathan Kuminga and Buddy Hield. The question is whether their older core can withstand another grueling season.
• The Brooklyn Nets added Michael Porter Jr., hoping his scoring complements Cam Thomas’ emerging offensive role.
• The Portland Trail Blazers surprised the league by reuniting with Damian Lillard after a complex trade sequence, aiming to reestablish stability.
• The Orlando Magic, led by Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner, continue their steady rise. Their 4–1 preseason record signal they’re ready to graduate from play-in contention to a top six seed.
• The New Orleans Pelicans, featuring Zion Williamson and Jordan Poole, impressed with strong preseason outings, including a dominant win over the National Basketball League’s Sydney Kings
Teams Still Searching for Identity
Several franchises remain in transition. The Washington Wizards and Utah Jazz continue long-term rebuilds, while the Philadelphia 76ers face uncertainty following internal turmoil and roster shakeups. The Memphis Grizzlies’ fortunes hinge entirely on Ja Morant’s discipline and health, and the Charlotte Hornets, despite LaMelo Ball’s flashes of brilliance, still lack direction on both ends of the court.
Predictions: Who’s Taking It All?
Western Conference Favorites
• Minnesota Timberwolves
• Oklahoma City Thunder
• Houston Rockets
Eastern Conference Favorites
• Milwaukee Bucks
• New York Knicks
• Indiana Pacers
Underdogs to Watch
• San Antonio Spurs
• Detroit Pistons
• Dallas Mavericks
• Orlando Magic
• Atlanta Hawks
Final Thoughts
This upcoming NBA season feels like the beginning of a new era—one where established superstars like Durant and Giannis coexist with a wave of emerging talent led by Wembanyama, Edwards, and Flagg. The balance of power between conferences is closer than it’s been in years, and with so many teams capable of making legitimate playoff pushes, fans are in for one of the most unpredictable and thrilling seasons in recent memory.
Whether it’s the Rockets’ championship gamble, the Thunder’s title defense, or the Knicks’ long-awaited resurgence, the 2025–26 season promises to deliver storylines that will shape the next generation of basketball history.
Contact Kenneth at lionelke@shu.edu