Although the NFL season has just begun, the excitement for basketball is already in the air. There are three weeks left until the NBA preseason begins, 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 at least 50 minutes of action in the past playoffs, their rivals have made significant changes during the summer, including the Knicks, who renewed their coaching staff.
The Houston Rockets stole the spotlight by adding Kevin Durant, a two-time Finals MVP, to their young core. Meanwhile, the Denver Nuggets chose to reinforce their team led by Nikola Jokic with players like Cameron Johnson and improve their bench.
Players selected in the draft, such as VJ Edgecombe of the Philadelphia 76ers, could be key factors in unexpected teams that surprised in May. We analyze the new players to watch in the 2025-26 season, with coach Mike Brown and 13 players on the roster, ranked by their potential impact and future importance.
Players to Watch in the NBA
- Kevin Durant, Houston Rockets: The most well-known player on the list and the only MVP, at 37 years old, arrives to be the leading scorer and the key player in decisive moments, seeking the franchise’s third championship.
- Desmond Bane, Orlando Magic: His arrival in the Eastern Conference, in exchange for four first-round picks, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Cole Anthony, was one of the most impactful moves of the summer. Bane, averaging 41% in three-point shots, will bring great value to a team that needs to improve its effectiveness from the three-point line.
- Cameron Johnson, Denver Nuggets: The comparison between his performance and that of Michael Porter Jr., whom he replaces, generates expectation. The influence of Nikola Jokic on the three-point shooting percentage will be key.
- Mike Brown, New York Knicks: The pressure to win the championship rests on the coach. It will be essential that he gets the most out of the team and improves their defense.
- Deandre Ayton, Los Angeles Lakers: He will have a great opportunity to prove his worth, taking advantage of the advantages that Luka Doncic can generate, seeking to improve the defense.
- Myles Turner, Milwaukee Bucks: His arrival was surprising. With his defensive skills and his ability to open the court, he will seek to help Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Bucks overcome the first round of playoffs.
- Kristaps Porzingis, Atlanta Hawks: After a difficult season, he arrives to be the rim protector and open the court for Trae Young, as long as he stays healthy.
- Cooper Flagg, Dallas Mavericks: Considered the top prospect of 2025, he will seek to integrate into a team that competed in the NBA Finals and contribute from the start.
- Norman Powell, Miami Heat: He will reinforce the offense, especially for Tyler Herro and Bam Adebayo, with his scoring ability both on and off the ball.
- Jalen Green, Phoenix Suns: He is expected to be the starting point guard alongside Devin Booker, seeking a new opportunity in Phoenix.
- Ty Jerome, Memphis Grizzlies: He will be Ja Morant’s backup, looking to replicate Tyus Jones’ success as a backup point guard.
- Bradley Beal, LA Clippers: He is expected to be the team’s third scorer, bringing experience and solidity.
- Dylan Harper, San Antonio Spurs: His impact as a rookie will be key, although his role could be limited.
- VJ Edgecombe, Philadelphia 76ers: Showed his potential in the Summer League. Could have more prominence if the Sixers suffer injuries.
