Chicago pulls off a defensive pivot by acquiring Isaac Okoro from Cleveland, betting that his physical, multi-positional perimeter defense can catalyze a cultural reset. Okoro vows to guard the toughest assignments and lead with effort, while Billy Donovan weighs starting options as the Bulls push to maximize defensive energy. The move comes as Chicago emphasizes a faster, more relentless pace, with Okoro’s leadership seeding a contagious hustle throughout training camp.

Okoro’s arrival isn’t just about one player; it signals a broader shift in the Bulls’ roster dynamics. Young talents like Matas Buzelis are watching closely as Okoro models the gritty, team-first mindset the team seeks. The conversation around roles, rotations, and defensive identity could define Chicago’s fantasy upside this season, especially for managers seeking a true hustle-based floor.

OKC Thunder enter the 2025-26 season as the team to beat, with most of the title-winning roster back and the target squarely on their backs. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leans into the pressure, saying it would suck to lose the championship again and that daily improvement is how they extend their title run. The team’s core, guided by Mark Daigneault, faces amplified scrutiny as every opponent circles the defending champs.

Lu Dort anchors the Thunder’s guard line, delivering elite defense and a steady 3-point stroke as OKC rides a historic title run into 2025-26. His fantasy floor remains steady thanks to multi-cat upside and top-tier perimeter defense.

Behind Dort, Alex Caruso, Cason Wallace and Isaiah Joe bring defense, playmaking and shooting to a deep, versatile backcourt. With Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren locked in as the core, OKC enters the season as a premier multi-category fantasy club with continued title upside.