Key Figures That Will Define the 2025-26 NBA Season
Less than three weeks before the start of the 2025-26 season, teams like the New York Knicks and the Philadelphia 76ers have already ignited the spark of competition in Abu Dhabi, marking the beginning of the NBA preseason.
The NBA season is shaping up with key moves and players looking to make their mark. From point guards adapting to new teams to coaches with high expectations and young talents ready to shine, several names are destined to define the course of the league. In Alofoke Deportes, we analyze ten figures who will play crucial roles, both on the court and in decisions off it, such as signings, the draft, and free agency.
Paolo Banchero, Orlando Magic Forward
Magic President of Basketball Operations Jeff Weltman announced in May that the team was ready to “turn the page on its rebuild and enter the next stage.” Weltman acted by sending future draft picks to the Memphis Grizzlies in exchange for Desmond Bane. Now, the focus is on Banchero, who recently signed a five-year, $239 million contract extension, and who could become a superstar. Could 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, selected as number 1 in the 2022 draft, possesses a unique combination of size, strength, and skill. The arrival of Bane and the improvement in Wagner’s shooting will be crucial. Orlando’s success will depend on how far Banchero can take them, especially in an open Eastern Conference due to injuries to key players.
Mike Brown, Coach of the New York Knicks
Replacing 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 implies high expectations. Brown faces considerable pressure in taking over. Knicks fans, yearning for a championship, see this as one of the best opportunities since the Patrick Ewing-led team reached the NBA Finals in 1994. Brown, with experience in high-pressure situations, including his time with LeBron James, will have to deal with the enormous expectation of leading the Knicks to success.
A.J. Dybantsa, BYU Cougars Forward
Dybantsa, along with Darryn Peterson, Cameron Boozer, and Nate Ament, will compete for the top positions in the coveted 2026 NBA draft. Several teams, including the Washington Wizards, Brooklyn Nets, and Utah Jazz, will seek to improve their chances in the draft lottery. The competition for the number one pick in 2026 could add an element of additional intrigue.
De’Aaron Fox, Point Guard for the San Antonio Spurs
The expectation surrounding Victor Wembanyama’s return is high, but the Spurs’ success will depend on Fox performing as a good co-star. Fox’s recent contract extension and his fit alongside Dylan Harper and Stephon Castle will be key to the team’s performance.
Kawhi Leonard, Forward for the LA Clippers
The investigation into possible salary irregularities of the Clippers will continue to be a topic of discussion. On the court, Leonard’s health will be crucial for the team’s aspirations. With an experienced team around him, if Leonard stays in shape, the Clippers could be a major factor in the Western Conference. This season, being his 34th year, could be decisive for Leonard’s success with the Clippers.
Adam Silver, NBA Commissioner
The 2025-26 season will be crucial for Silver. The resolution of the Clippers case and their expansion plans in Europe and nationally will be decisive. The expansion of the league, with Seattle as a potential market, and the possibility of a franchise in Las Vegas, are key issues that could define his legacy.
Amen Thompson, Point Guard for the Houston Rockets
Thompson, selected in the 2023 draft, is ready for a standout season. Fred VanVleet’s injury opens a great opportunity for him to lead the Rockets. With Thompson as a potential Defensive Player of the Year contender and a great passer, Houston could be a threat in the West.
Trae Young, Point Guard for the Atlanta Hawks
Young’s market and his future with the Hawks will be important topics. Atlanta’s season, after a standout offseason, could influence his value in free agency, in a context of changes in the construction and spending of NBA teams.
