Ballmer bought the Clippers in 2014 with bold, championship dreams. Leonard arrived amid a blockbuster era that included the George trade and a culture of secrecy, scrutiny and league probes that reshaped the franchise.

Even with 50-win seasons, injuries and sponsorship disputes hung over the team as it chased a title. For fantasy managers, Leonard's health, Beal and Harden fit, and cap maneuvers loom large this season.

Jalen Williams aims to preserve All-NBA status, grow as a primary scorer, and boost two-way impact as Oklahoma City eyes back-to-back glory. With Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Chet Holmgren extending their deals, the Thunder keep their championship window wide open. Williams' three targets—steady 20+ PPG production, more trips to the line, and DPOY-level defense—could redefine OKC’s ceiling this season.

Expect Williams to lean into volume efficiency, draw fouls at a higher rate, and anchor a defense that was already disruptive. If he hits the mark, OKC becomes a true title frontrunner and fantasy managers reap a premium, all-around contributor who fuels both offense and defense.

Defenses harden and isolation is fading as the NBA tilts toward ball movement, pace, and floor-spreading shooting. Celtics, Pacers, and OKC show how cutting, movement, and shared scoring unlocks offenses that torched defenses this season. Even Lakers-style heavy big-three rosters like Suns, Nets, and Clippers paid a playoff price when isolation carried too much weight. Raptors glimpse a future built on chemistry and multi-weapon scoring, not one star.

For fantasy, the shift favors versatile shooters and playmakers who can contribute off the ball. Target players who thrive in off-ball movement, catch-and-shoot opportunities, and rapid ball-sharing—less reliant on individual isolations and more on team-driven offense and pace.