The Phoenix Suns are making significant strides this offseason, starting with the surprising dismissal of head coach Mike Budenholzer, who was let go just a year after signing a lucrative five-year deal. Owner Mat Ishbia made further changes in the front office, promoting Brian Gregory to general manager and executing a historic trade, sending Kevin Durant to the Houston Rockets in exchange for Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, and a substantial draft haul.

In a pivotal move that signifies the Suns' intent to remain competitive, Devin Booker has signed a two-year extension worth $150 million. Last season, Booker averaged an impressive 25.6 points and 7.1 assists, establishing himself as a central figure in Phoenix's offense. Despite a crowded backcourt following the additions of Green and Brooks, Booker is expected to maintain his role as a primary facilitator, showcasing his adaptability and skill in navigating the evolving roster.

The Las Vegas Summer League is set to kick off, highlighting multiple promising NBA rookies. Cooper Flagg, the top pick of the 2025 Draft, is generating significant buzz. His versatile skill set, particularly in playmaking and 3-point shooting, makes him a player to watch, although his minutes may be limited. Meanwhile, Bronny James, who struggled in earlier games, needs more G-League-style minutes to showcase his abilities.

Reed Sheppard from the Houston Rockets is crucial for the team's future, and a solid showing could help him secure a backup point guard role. The Washington Wizards are also one to watch, with a roster filled with rookies and second-year players, aiming for a high-tempo offense. Jeremiah Fears of the New Orleans Pelicans, facing uncertainty in his team due to injuries, could elevate his standing with a strong performance. Lastly, Egor Demin from the Brooklyn Nets is positioned to start, making his Summer League performance pivotal for fantasy managers.

The NBA Cup for the 2025-26 season has drawn its groups, revealing intriguing matchups for teams across the league. Each group consists of five teams, competing from the end of October through November, with the top performers progressing to knockout rounds in Las Vegas in December. East A stands out as the easiest group, featuring the Cleveland Cavaliers and Atlanta Hawks, while West C is seen as the toughest, showcasing playoff contenders like the Denver Nuggets and Golden State Warriors.

The Cavaliers, with a strong recent record, and an improved Hawks team face off against teams in varying levels of rebuild, including the Washington Wizards. Conversely, the Nuggets and Warriors will look to capitalize on their playoff experience against a Houston Rockets team that has made significant changes to bolster its roster, including the addition of Kevin Durant.

The Houston Rockets face a competitive challenge in the 2025 Emirates NBA Cup, drawn into Group C alongside the Denver Nuggets, Golden State Warriors, Portland Trail Blazers, and San Antonio Spurs. This in-season tournament features a round-robin format where each team plays four games starting October 31. The top teams from each group will advance to knockout stages, ultimately leading to a championship game in Las Vegas.

Last season, the Rockets reached the semifinals before falling to the Oklahoma City Thunder, and they aim to build on that success with a stronger squad featuring newly acquired superstar Kevin Durant. Expectations are high as the Rockets, with their solid roster, prepare to face off against their rivals in an effort to secure a deep playoff run.

The Los Angeles Lakers are actively reshaping their roster during the early days of free agency. While LeBron James has opted to stay, the team has also re-signed Jaxson Hayes. Notably, Dorian Finney-Smith has joined the Houston Rockets, prompting the Lakers to sign Jake LaRavia and former No. 1 pick Deandre Ayton.

With a focus on enhancing their defensive capabilities, the Lakers are exploring trade options to pair James and Luka Dončić with effective point-of-attack defenders. Targets reportedly include Matisse Thybulle and Marcus Smart, among others. As the team prepares for the Las Vegas Summer League, general manager Rob Pelinka aims to create roster space for potential trades, while looking ahead to the stacked 2027 free agent class.