Victor Wembanyama cracks ESPN’s top five for 2025-26, cementing his status as a franchise pillar. A healthy season after last year’s blood-clot scare and a summer of intense training—Garnett and Olajuwon on board—have analysts pegging him for elite scoring, rebounding, and rim protection. The Spurs surround him with a deeper lineup, led by De’Aaron Fox at point, plus rising youngsters Castle, Sochan and Harper, and veterans Vassell, Johnson, Barnes, and Olynyk. A tougher West awaits, but health and system chemistry could spark a playoff push and strong fantasy returns.

ESPN emphasizes Wembanyama’s 5x5 milestone and multi-category upside, underscoring a potential leap into the league’s elite while the Spurs build a competitive supporting cast. If he stays healthy, his usage, efficiency and defensive impact should fuel significant fantasy production, even as the Western grind tests consistency across a star-studded slate.

Dallas Mavericks' 45-year countdown continues with Nos. 35-26, blending budding talent and seasoned pros who left an imprint. Dereck Lively II anchors the frontcourt with rim protection and efficient finishing; Daniel Gafford stacks elite FG% and paint presence; P.J. Washington adds versatile scoring and floor spacing for Dallas’ late-season push.

Erick Dampier, Wesley Matthews, Vince Carter, Dwight Powell, Tim Hardaway Jr., Shawn Bradley, and Harrison Barnes complete the batch, delivering rebounds, shooting, and veteran savvy. These names shape fantasy floor and playoff upside, with Barnes offering consistent scoring and versatility across a second-stint context.

Dylan Harper underwent surgery to repair a partially torn ligament in his left thumb after a workout, with Spurs brass optimistic he’ll be ready for the Oct. 22 season opener vs. Dallas. The 19-year-old guard from Rutgers was San Antonio’s No. 2 pick this year, amid a draft class headlined by Cooper Flagg of Dallas. Harper’s high-floor, two-way profile could mesh with Flagg’s shot-creating duties as the Spurs lean on a backcourt featuring De’Aaron Fox and Stephon Castle. Wembanyama anchors the center spot, with Devin Vassell and Harrison Barnes flanking him, as San Antonio hopes to open the season strong after Wemby’s health hiccup.

The San Antonio Spurs possess an exciting and promising roster ahead of the upcoming season. With a core featuring Victor Wembanyama and De'Aaron Fox alongside players like Harrison Barnes, Dylan Harper, and Keldon Johnson, they are poised to make waves in the league. However, the lack of continuity between Wembanyama and Fox raises questions as they have only shared the court for five games thus far.

Analyst Zach Lowe highlights Wembanyama's immense talent, suggesting he is already among the top players in the league. Fox's eagerness to solidify his role in San Antonio adds to the team's narrative. The Spurs' depth and youthful energy are expected to be crucial, contributing to a high-effort style of play throughout the season. Their ability to maintain intensity over the long haul could prove essential in both the regular season and potential playoff matchups.

The San Antonio Spurs are eyeing a blockbuster trade that could see LeBron James don their colors for the price of two players unlikely to be part of their future, Devin Vassell and Harrison Barnes, alongside a 2028 first-round draft pick. Such a move is framed as a calculated risk, bringing in a star player who, despite his age, could provide both immediate impact and mentorship to rising stars like Victor Wembanyama.

James' arrival would echo Tom Brady's 2020 signing with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, showcasing how veteran talent can elevate a team, even if the Spurs aren’t immediately championship contenders. The potential pairing of James and Wembanyama could be historic, as both excel in pick-and-pop situations. However, the Spurs must weigh their options carefully, ensuring they don't sacrifice too much for a fleeting opportunity.