Key Figures Who Will Define the 2025-26 NBA Season
With less than three weeks until the start of the 2025-26 season, excitement is in the air. The New York Knicks and the Philadelphia 76ers have already kicked off the preseason in Abu Dhabi. With an offseason full of moves, several players and personalities face new challenges and opportunities that could define the course of the NBA. Here are the key figures who could make a difference.Giannis Antetokounmpo, Power Forward, Milwaukee BucksThe NBA universe eagerly awaits the Greek superstar’s decision regarding his future in Milwaukee, the only city he has called home in his 12-year career. The Bucks have fulfilled Antetokounmpo’s wishes by acquiring Jrue Holiday and then Damian Lillard. Now, the question is whether the arrival of Myles Turner will be enough to convince him to stay on the team.
Antetokounmpo, after reflecting on his future after three consecutive eliminations in the first round of the playoffs, could be on the verge of having his best season statistically. With Lillard out in the final stretch of last season, his numbers skyrocketed. Coach Doc Rivers is expected to repeat this strategy, which could turn Antetokounmpo into a statistical machine. With less than two years until Antetokounmpo becomes an unrestricted free agent, and a team with question marks, the topic of his future will remain relevant.Paolo Banchero, Power Forward, Orlando MagicMagic President of Basketball Operations Jeff Weltman stated that the team is ready to move past the rebuilding phase and focus on winning. The acquisition of Desmond Bane through a trade has been seen as a successful move. However, the Magic’s success will depend on Banchero, who, after signing a maximum five-year, $239 million contract extension, is on his way to becoming a superstar. Can he lead Orlando to win a playoff series for the first time since 2010 and reach the NBA Finals for the third time in franchise history?
Banchero, with his combination of size, strength, and skill, and the addition of Bane, could take the Magic very far in an open Eastern Conference, assuming Banchero continues his development.Mike Brown, Coach, New York KnicksAfter saying goodbye to a coach who led the team to playoff victories for three consecutive seasons and to the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time in 25 years, expectations for his successor are high. Brown, who replaced Tom Thibodeau, faces considerable pressure. Knicks fans eagerly await breaking the title drought that has lasted more than half a century. An open East could mean that anything less than reaching the Finals would be a wasted season for New York.
De’Aaron Fox, Point Guard, San Antonio Spurs
The anticipation for Victor Wembanyama’s return is high, but the Spurs’ success will depend on Fox being a good teammate. The investment in Fox, with a maximum contract extension, indicates that he is the ideal partner for Wembanyama. Fox will also have to fit in with Dylan Harper and Stephon Castle, which could be a challenge due to the lack of consistency in shooting.Kawhi Leonard, Forward, LA ClippersThe investigation into possible salary irregularities of the Clippers will continue to be a topic of discussion. On the court, if Leonard manages to stay healthy, the Clippers could be a real factor in the West. Given that this is Leonard’s 34th season, he won’t have many opportunities to succeed with the Clippers if he doesn’t do it in 2025-26.Amen Thompson, Guard, Houston RocketsThompson, selected at number 4 in the 2023 draft, is ready for a high-impact season. Fred VanVleet’s injury gives him a great opportunity. Thompson could be an All-Star, the NBA’s Most Improved Player, and help Houston become a threat in the West.
The 2025-26 season promises to be exciting, with these key figures ready to make their mark on the NBA. Don’t miss a second of the action!
