Although the NFL season has just begun, the excitement for basketball is already in the air. In three weeks, the NBA preseason will begin, with a stellar matchup between the New York Knicks and the Philadelphia 76ers in Abu Dhabi.
While the current champions, the Oklahoma City Thunder, are betting on continuity, keeping all the players who saw significant action in the past playoffs, their rivals have made important moves during the offseason. The Knicks, for example, have brought in a new coach on their bench.
The Houston Rockets have been the boldest, adding Kevin Durant to their young core, 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 with players like Cameron Johnson and improvements to their bench.
Additionally, the new draft picks, such as VJ Edgecombe from the Philadelphia 76ers, could be key for teams looking to surprise. We analyze the most promising rookies and trades for the 2025-26 season.
1. Kevin Durant, Houston Rockets
Durant, who will turn 37 this month, is the most recognized player and the only MVP on this list. The Rockets hope he will be the final piece to achieve their third NBA championship. His role in Houston is clear: he is expected to be the key player and the first offensive option in crucial moments.2. Desmond Bane, Orlando MagicThe transfer of the 27-year-old forward to the Eastern Conference, in exchange for several first-round picks, along with Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Cole Anthony, was one of the most significant moves of the summer. The arrival of Bane, with an average of 41% in three-point shots, is key for a team that finished last in three-pointers and three-point shooting percentage. This will relieve the offensive pressure on Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner.3. Cameron Johnson, Denver NuggetsOne of the most interesting questions is whether Johnson will perform better now that he will play alongside Nikola Jokic. Caldwell-Pope’s season with the Orlando Magic has fueled the idea of a “Jokic effect” on three-point shooting. New Nuggets players since 2018-19 who have attempted at least 100 three-pointers have improved their percentage in Denver.4. Mike Brown, New York KnicksBrown will face a lot of pressure this season. The organization is focused on winning the championship. It will be his responsibility to get the most out of the starting team and improve the club’s defensive problems.5. Deandre Ayton, Los Angeles LakersThis could be Ayton’s best opportunity to demonstrate his potential. Ayton must make the most of the opportunities and improve defense.6. Myles Turner, Milwaukee BucksTurner was once a Defensive Player of the Year candidate and still has a good reputation as a rim protector, along with his spacing ability. All his skills will be needed to help Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Bucks get past the first round.7. Kristaps Porzingis, Atlanta HawksLast season was difficult for Porzingis, but with his arrival in Atlanta, it gives the team a rim protector and spacer for Trae Young. Porzingis just needs to stay healthy.8. Cooper Flagg, Dallas MavericksThe top prospect of the 2025 draft finds himself in an unusual situation. Although he is not Doncic, his complete game should allow him to contribute immediately.9. Norman Powell, Miami Heat
The Heat desperately needed to improve their offense. Powell, who is playing the best basketball of his career, can score inside and outside the ball, and from inside and outside the arc. He is expected to be of great help to Tyler Herro and Bam Adebayo on the offensive end.10. Jalen Green, Phoenix SunsGreen will have a fresh start in Phoenix. Green is expected to start at point guard alongside Devin Booker.11. Ty Jerome, Memphis GrizzliesThe 28-year-old point guard had a standout season in Cleveland. Jerome arrives to be Ja Morant’s backup in Memphis.12. Bradley Beal, LA ClippersBeal should fit perfectly as a third scorer. The Clippers should benefit greatly from having him, along with Chris Paul and Brook Lopez, in reduced roles.13. Dylan Harper, San Antonio Spurs
It’s important to see Harper’s impact as a rookie. His role might be limited, but the sooner Harper is ready to take over the point guard position, the more difficult the team’s decisions could be.14. VJ Edgecombe, Philadelphia 76ersEdgecombe proved his worth in the Salt Lake Summer League. If the Sixers have trouble staying healthy, Edgecombe represents the promise of a new era in Philadelphia.
