Although the NFL season has just begun, the excitement for basketball is already in the air. In three weeks, the NBA preseason will kick off with a stellar matchup between the New York Knicks and the Philadelphia 76ers in Abu Dhabi.
While the current champions, the Oklahoma City Thunder, seek to maintain stability with their core players, competing teams have made significant changes this offseason. The Knicks, for example, have renewed their coaching staff.
The Houston Rockets have made the biggest investment, adding Kevin Durant to their young roster, which finished second in the Western Conference last season. On the other hand, the Denver Nuggets have chosen to reinforce their team led by Nikola Jokic, incorporating Cameron Johnson and improving their bench.
In addition, young talents selected in the draft, such as VJ Edgecombe of the Philadelphia 76ers, could be key factors for teams looking to surprise. Below, an analysis of the new players to watch in the 2025-26 season, highlighting their potential impact.Illustration by ESPN
Kevin Durant, Houston Rockets
Durant, about to turn 37, is the most outstanding player and the only MVP on this list. The Rockets hope he will be the final piece to win their third NBA championship. His role in Houston is clear: to be the key player in crucial moments and the main offensive option.
Desmond Bane, Orlando Magic
The transfer of the 27-year-old forward to the Eastern Conference, in exchange for several first-round picks, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Cole Anthony, was one of the most important moves of the summer. Bane, with his ability to make three-pointers, arrives to strengthen a team that needs to improve in this aspect, relieving the offensive pressure on Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner.
Cameron Johnson, Denver Nuggets
Johnson’s arrival at the Nuggets raises the question of whether his performance will improve playing alongside Nikola Jokic. The effectiveness of three-point shooters in Denver has been mixed, but Johnson is expected to bring his shooting ability to the team.
Mike Brown, New York Knicks
Brown will face great pressure in the Knicks, with the goal of leading the team to the championship. After the best season in 25 years, Brown must maximize the performance of the starting lineup and improve the team’s defensive problems.
Deandre Ayton, Los Angeles Lakers
Ayton seeks to prove his worth on the Lakers. He is expected to take advantage of playing opportunities alongside Luka Doncic, improving defense and complementing Jaxson Hayes.
Myles Turner, Milwaukee Bucks
Turner’s arrival at the Bucks was surprising. With rim protection skills and spacing ability, Turner will seek to help Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Bucks advance beyond the first round of the playoffs.
Kristaps Porzingis, Atlanta Hawks
Porzingis, after a complicated season, arrives at the Hawks to be a rim protector and a shooter for Trae Young. His health will be key to his performance.
Cooper Flagg, Dallas Mavericks
The number one prospect of the 2025 draft arrives at the Mavericks. Although he will need time to develop, his versatility could help the team in its playoff pursuit.
Norman Powell, Miami Heat
Powell, at the peak of his career, arrives to strengthen Miami’s offense. His scoring ability is expected to be a great support for Tyler Herro and Bam Adebayo.
Jalen Green, Phoenix Suns
Green will seek a fresh start in Phoenix, playing as point guard alongside Devin Booker. His playmaking ability will be key.
Ty Jerome, Memphis Grizzlies
Jerome arrives at the Grizzlies as a backup for Ja Morant, looking to emulate the success of Tyus Jones as a backup point guard.
Bradley Beal, LA Clippers
Beal, on a more affordable contract, joins the Clippers as a third scorer. His presence alongside Chris Paul and Brook Lopez will strengthen the team’s depth.
Dylan Harper, San Antonio Spurs
Harper, drafted, could have a limited role initially, but his long-term development could influence the team’s decisions, especially at the point guard position.
VJ Edgecombe, Philadelphia 76ers
Edgecombe showed his potential in the Summer League. On a veteran team like the 76ers, he could have an important role if the team faces health problems.
