NBA Preseason Kicks Off with Major Player Movement

ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates — With less than three weeks until the start of the 2025-26 NBA season, teams are gearing up as the league’s preseason kicked off in Abu Dhabi. The event marks a time of great anticipation as players and coaches adapt to new roles following an offseason full of major trades and signings.

This offseason saw significant personnel changes, with players moving to new teams and others taking on different responsibilities. The league’s landscape will be shaped by these changes, particularly by those who are now stepping into central roles.

One of the most notable players to watch is Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Milwaukee Bucks. Following three straight playoff exits, Antetokounmpo revealed he spent the summer contemplating his future with the team. Despite assurances of being “committed to Milwaukee,” his future remains a hot topic as he approaches unrestricted free agency in less than two years.

Antetokounmpo indicated that his continued presence in Milwaukee may hinge on how well the team performs this upcoming season. “It’s pretty much the same. I had the same thoughts last year. I had the same thoughts two years ago,” he said during a videoconference from home, where he is recovering from COVID-19.

As Antetokounmpo prepares for what may be his best statistical season yet, the addition of Damian Lillard is expected to benefit his game. With Lillard sidelined late last season, Antetokounmpo’s production surged, raising expectations for him as head coach Doc Rivers integrates Lillard into the mix.

Meanwhile, Orlando Magic president Jeff Weltman is focusing on building a competitive roster. After trading for a key player, they have high hopes for Paolo Banchero, the No. 1 pick in the 2022 NBA draft. Banchero has shown significant improvement, leading the Magic’s charge in the playoffs, but must overcome past inconsistencies to take his game to the next level this season.

The New York Knicks also face pressure with new head coach Mike Brown, who steps into a squad that aims to break a championship drought dating back to 1973. The upcoming season is critical for the Knicks as they hope to capitalize on their talented roster amidst heightened expectations.

In the Western Conference, the San Antonio Spurs are betting on rising star Victor Wembanyama to lead them forward, despite learning to navigate the demands of the NBA season. With tight competition for playoff slots, expectations are high for this young talent.

As many teams focus on positioning themselves ahead of the trade deadline and draft, it becomes increasingly clear that the upcoming season is set to be full of surprises. With the NBA’s offseason officially behind them, fans and players alike can only wonder what’s next as they embark on a fresh chapter in basketball.