Hawks fans finally have a pivot point for the upcoming season: Kristaps Porzingis should space the floor and protect the rim, while Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Dyson Daniels add two-way versatility. If Jaylen Johnson can stay healthy, Atlanta’s defensive identity could finally lead the way, turning last year’s near-miss into a playoff surge in a wide-open East. Porzingis’s health is the wild card, but even 50-60 games unlocks a higher ceiling and more lineups Trey Young can thrive behind.

Beyond Atlanta, the pod recaps two other playoff pivots. Dallas bets on frontcourt defense and Cooper Flagg’s ascent to supplement Kyrie Irving and a healthier Anthony Davis–D’Angelo Russell pairing in L.A., with Porzingis watching from ATL as a contrasting path. Philadelphia’s path hinges on Tyrese Maxi’s growth supplementing Embiid and Paul George’s fit if healthy. San Antonio leans into Victor Wembanyama and Dylan Harper to push back toward the postseason, making the West’s chase even more crowded.

The San Antonio Spurs are gearing up for a season filled with intrigue, particularly surrounding their rotation and a wealth of talent. The team's centerpiece, Victor Wembanyama, is healthy and expected to make a significant impact on both ends of the floor if he can stay on the court for a full season.

With the addition of De'Aaron Fox and rookie Stefon Castle, the backcourt is stacked. The likely starting guards, Fox and Castle, present a potent duo, though questions linger regarding how they will fit with Dylan Harper, the second overall pick, who has shown promise.

Devin Vassell's role is also under scrutiny as he may transition to a bench player, creating a logjam in the backcourt. Meanwhile, Jeremy Sochan's flexibility could allow him to thrive in his natural position, potentially as a starter.

Excitement fills the air as De'Aaron Fox signs a four-year, $222.4 million extension with the San Antonio Spurs. This move solidifies the Spurs' strategy of building around rising star Victor Wembanyama. Adding Fox, along with Dylan Harper and Steph Castle, enhances their backcourt depth. Notably, the Spurs are taking a patient approach, focusing on long-term success rather than rushing trades. With Fox's ability to lead and score, they aim for a balanced roster that can compete in the future.

As the NBA landscape shifts, the discussion shifts towards the implications of Fox's max contract. While he is a talented player, concerns arise about the potential for his salary to become unmanageable as he ages. The Spurs' cautious yet ambitious roster construction raises questions about their shooting capabilities and overall team dynamics as they make moves to complement Wembanyama's unique skill set. With a new wave of talent, fans and analysts alike eagerly await the Spurs' next steps.

De'Aaron Fox's recent max contract extension with the San Antonio Spurs underscores the team's commitment to building around Victor Wembanyama. Despite having played only five games together last season, the Spurs recognized Fox's potential and his desire to be part of the franchise. His four-year, $229 million deal signifies confidence in his role as a primary ball-handler alongside the generational talent of Wemby.

Fox's previous season was not his best due to injuries, yet his performance in past years positions him as a key player for the Spurs. The franchise hopes that both players can develop chemistry and elevate the team's overall performance as they aim for a return to playoff contention.