Indiana's 2025-26 season unfolds as a calculated experiment focused on youth and playmaking. Turner departs for a stopgap era, Jay Huff steps in as a rim protector, and Tyrese Haliburton sits out the year, forcing Bennedict Mathurin into a day-one starting role at shooting guard. Andrew Nembhard becomes the primary facilitator, with TJ McConnell providing veteran depth off the bench. Carlisle leans into stability, anchoring a core of Mathurin, Nembhard, Nesmith, Siakam and Huff, while rotations may flex modestly. Across the hall, Dallas Wings showcase a contrasting approach— Paige Bueckers at the helm and 12 different starting lineups in 31 games as Chris Koclanes chases rebounding and consistency from Luisa Geiselsoder and Li Yueru. The Wings’ volatility serves as a cautionary foil to Carlisle’s steady-handed plan, highlighting how fantasy value can emerge from breakout roles and opportunistic depth during an evolving season.