As the 2025–26 NBA season gets underway, anticipation is reaching fever pitch. With key retirements, high-profile trades, and young talents ready to make their mark, there is plenty to discuss before the first tip-off. For fans looking to engage with the season early, free bet offers add an extra layer of intrigue to following the league’s storylines.
Thunder’s historic expectations
The Oklahoma City Thunder enter the season with a projected 62.5 wins, the highest preseason figure since the Golden State Warriors’ 2017–18 campaign. This projection immediately positions the Thunder as one of the title favourites, with expectations high that their blend of youth and experience can translate into consistent success. Analysts suggest that if the team meets these projections, it would mark a historic achievement and set the tone for the rest of the league.
Brogdon’s sudden retirement
Just one week before the season opener, Malcolm Brogdon announced his retirement. The veteran guard’s departure leaves the New York Knicks without a key contributor and poses significant challenges for the team’s rotation. Observers are already speculating about how the Knicks will adapt, who will step up in his absence, and the potential long-term impact on their campaign.
Suns’ redemption season
The Phoenix Suns enter this season with a clear mission: to move past last year’s disappointments. Roster changes and renewed energy provide the team with an opportunity to redefine expectations. Commentators are watching closely to see whether the Suns’ revamped line-up can translate potential into consistent performance, particularly in a competitive Western Conference.
Rising stars from the draft
This year’s draft has injected new excitement into the league. Cooper Flagg and Dylan Harper, selected first and second overall by the Dallas Mavericks and San Antonio Spurs, respectively, are expected to make an immediate impact. Analysts predict that their integration into already established squads could prove pivotal in shaping the fortunes of their teams and the narrative of the season.
Flagg has already impressed for the Mavs during preseason, racking up 45 points from four games. His most notable performance was against the Los Angeles Lakers, where he scored 13 points and provided three assists.
Harper has also made an explosive start to life in San Antonio, scoring nine points and providing three assists in an 18-minute burst against the Utah Jazz before netting 11 points and eight assists against the Indiana Pacers.
LeBron James to miss the start of the season
Lakers veteran LeBron James is set to miss the start of his 23rd year in the NBA due to a nerve issue. The 40-year-old was forced to miss preseason and is aiming for a return in mid-November, which could see him skip at least the first 10 games of the new campaign.
Comparing to previous seasons
When placed in historical context, this season already carries unique storylines. The Thunder’s win projection is among the highest in recent memory, Brogdon’s late retirement is a rare off-season development, and the Suns’ determination to bounce back adds a compelling subplot. Taken together, these factors suggest a season ripe with intrigue, high stakes, and potential surprises.
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