The Brooklyn Nets are set to unveil a promising rookie class in their Summer League opener against the Oklahoma City Thunder. Notably absent will be Drake Powell, the No. 22 pick, due to a minor knee injury. His potential was highlighted by his freshman season at North Carolina, where he averaged 7.4 points and received the Defensive Player of the Year award.

Under the guidance of assistant coach Steve Hetzel, who led the team last year, the Nets aim to improve on their 3-2 Summer League record from 2025. With matchups against the Wizards, Knicks, and Magic ahead, all eyes will be on newcomers like Egor Dëmin and Nolan Traoré, both key figures to watch this Summer League. Dëmin, the No. 8 overall pick, looks to prove skeptics wrong, while Traoré, who fell to the 19th pick, aims to showcase his explosive skills.

The Houston Rockets are entering the new season with optimism after finishing 41-41 last year, just shy of the play-in tournament. Despite a challenging Western Conference, the Rockets have added Reed Sheppard, though the impact of their rookies remains uncertain.

NBA analyst Dennis Scott believes the Rockets can make the playoffs, highlighting Alperen Sengun as a crucial player. With a mix of young talent and veteran presence, the team aims to build on last season's opportunities. The Rockets will kick off their season on October 23 against the Charlotte Hornets.