NBA preseason highlights key roster changes and player outlooks ahead of 2026-27 season

Analyst Ben Golliver examined the NBA preseason to identify trends that could shape the 2026-27 campaign.

The Atlanta Hawks entered the preseason with a deep backcourt after trading two backup guards for forward Dorian Finney-Smith. Coach Quin Snyder experimented with lineups but found the previous season's top five—Nickeil Alexander-Walker, CJ McCollum, Dyson Daniels, Jalen Johnson and Onyeka Okongwu—produced the strongest net rating, prompting a shift for Lu Dort to a reserve role.

Boston’s Jayson Tatum returned from an Achilles injury and posted 23 points in 27 minutes in his preseason debut, suggesting he may regain MVP-caliber form. The Celtics will need to adjust to the loss of Jaylen Brown while integrating Paul George and Mitchell Robinson.

Brooklyn highlighted rookie point guard Egor Demin, who displayed increased aggressiveness off the dribble and a notable drive past LeBron James and Joel Embiid in a preseason win.

Charlotte’s Kon Knueppel, who missed the preseason with a hamstring injury, remains a key scoring option after a strong rookie season, though his availability for opening night is uncertain following the trade of LaMelo Ball.

Chicago’s 2026 No. 4 pick Caleb Wilson impressed with versatile offensive skills, though the Bulls are expected to focus on his development rather than immediate results.

Cleveland added forward Mario Hezonja to complement starter Peyton Watson, aiming to improve a bench that ranked 25th in scoring last season.

Dallas saw Cooper Flagg deliver standout numbers in the NBA China Games, averaging 25.8 points, 7.8 rebounds and 7.8 assists per 36 minutes, positioning him as a potential All-Star candidate.

Denver highlighted Nikola Jokic’s creative passing, including a no-look, behind-the-back assist that underscored his evolution as a playmaker.

Detroit secured Jalen Duren on a five-year, $200 million extension, stabilizing the core of Cade Cunningham, Duren and Ausar Thompson after a protracted negotiation.

Golden State dealt with Kristaps Porzingis’ indefinite absence but extended guard Brandin Podziemski with a five-year, $110 million rookie deal, reflecting a focus on future depth.

Houston’s Fred VanVleet returned from a knee injury, scoring 17 points and dishing seven assists in his preseason debut, providing a reliable secondary ball-handler for the Rockets.

Indiana’s Tyrese Haliburton made his preseason return after a 472-day injury layoff, scoring seven points and recording six assists in limited minutes.

Los Angeles Clippers face a depleted roster after injuries to Max Strus and Bradley Beal, leaving Darius Garland as the primary offensive catalyst.

Los Angeles Lakers, after a major offseason overhaul, expressed championship aspirations despite limited continuity, with Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves forming a new backcourt.

Memphis, after trading away key players, relied on 7-foot-3 center Zach Edey to anchor its frontcourt, hoping his health will allow the team to contend for a play-in spot.

Miami’s Giannis Antetokounmpo made an immediate impact in his debut for the Heat, delivering strong inside play and transition scoring.

Milwaukee’s new coach Taylor Jenkins kept veteran players together early, while evaluating the development timeline for younger assets such as Brayden Buries and Nate Ament.

Minnesota’s coach Chris Finch described the team’s new identity as “giddier,” reflecting a shift toward a younger, more dynamic roster after adding LaMelo Ball and Jonathan Kuminga.

New Orleans emphasized a veteran-first approach under coach Jamahl Mosley, with Zion Williamson and other starters leading the lineup while recent draft picks remain in supporting roles.

New York’s owner James Dolan signaled a hard-line stance on salary-cap management, resulting in the departure of Mitchell Robinson and paused negotiations with Karl-Anthony Towns.

Oklahoma City highlighted rookie center Aday Mara, who shot 10-for-10 in a preseason game, providing interior scoring and passing to complement the Thunder’s frontcourt.

Orlando’s Tristan da Silva increased his three-point attempts dramatically under coach Sean Sweeney, reflecting a strategic shift toward spacing.

Philadelphia’s LeBron James logged limited minutes in the preseason, indicating a gradual integration plan for the veteran amid concerns about age and Joel Embiid’s health.

Phoenix’s 20-year-old center Khaman Maluach showed a more rounded game, contributing scoring, rebounding and playmaking in preseason action.

Portland’s Damian Lillard returned from injury and performed well, while the team may consider moving recent acquisition Ja Morant to a bench role to balance the guard rotation.

Sacramento’s Maxime Raynaud avoided a serious knee injury, preserving his role after a promising rookie season.

San Antonio continues to evaluate lineup options surrounding 2025 No. 2 pick Dylan Harper, weighing the benefits of a three-guard configuration versus traditional frontcourt balance.

Toronto’s Kawhi Leonard opened with 21 points in 17 minutes, signaling a strong start for the former two-time Finals MVP with his new team.

Utah projected significant offensive improvement, with Lauri Markkanen, Jaren Jackson Jr. and rookie Darryn Peterson expected to drive a higher efficiency rating.

Washington’s Trae Young, after signing a four-year extension, emphasized a pass-first approach, distributing 23 assists in three preseason games while limiting his shot attempts, aiming to improve the Wizards’ offensive efficiency.