LA Clippers weigh nuclear option amid cap-circumvention probe that could wipe picks or void Leonard's deal. The plan centers on an all-in 2025-26 run with Harden, Beal and Zubac, boosted by a veteran depth chart. Floated targets include Zion Williamson, Michael Porter Jr. and Brandon Ingram, with cap relief as a potential wildcard if the league won’t sanction assets immediately. Timing and penalties shape every move.

The piece stresses that any trade would hinge on NBA decisions still years away, making the 2025-26 window pivotal for a title push even as risk mounts. The dynamics blend roster fit, long-term cost, and the uncertain fallout of a prolonged investigation.

Sleepers, breakouts and busts for the 2025-26 fantasy season: Castle, Sarr, Porter Jr., Murphy III and Buzelis offer high upside as sleepers, with Castle perched outside the top 100 but ready to contribute across points, dimes, and boards. Breakouts like Miller, Flagg, Giddey, Wells, and Ware carry league-winning potential as their roles loom larger. Busts include George, Morant, Zubac, Claxton and VanVleet, where durability, minutes, and surrounding talent may cap upside.