New Orleans enters 2025-26 with Zion Williamson, Trey Murphy III and Herbert Jones healthy and ready to anchor a potent Pelicans core. The addition of Jordan Poole and Saddiq Bey adds burst and shooting, while Kevon Looney brings in-the-paint defense and rebounding. Draft picks Yves Missi and Derik Queen offer upside, and Jose Alvarado provides energy off the bench. If the health trend holds, New Orleans can again contend for a playoff spot in a deep West.

But health remains the variable. An Opening Night absence for Dejounte Murray and a tough early schedule could delay chemistry-building and push the team into a rugged early patch. If the roster stays cohesive and Poole/Bey translate into efficient offense, the Pelicans could reclaim momentum in November and push for a late-season run, despite the absence of a 2026 first-round pick complicating long-term assets.

Stephen Curry is on track for a full hamstring return as he gears up for a 17th NBA season with Golden State, a period ripe for maximizing his prime years. Off the floor, Curry is building a broader empire—partnering with Michael Mina on a Bourbon Steak revival and a reservations-only bar called Eighth Rule in San Francisco—while continuing to grow his brand portfolio with Curry Brand, Unanimous Media, and tech investments. This dual path signals a plan to extend influence beyond basketball while the Warriors optimize roster depth around him.

The piece highlights Curry’s hands-on role in the hospitality project alongside Ayesha Curry’s prior collaborations, plus a history of ventures like International Smoke, Gentleman's Cut bourbon, and stakes in Tonal, Oxigen, and Slyce. As Curry contemplates life after hoops, Golden State’s strategy centers on sustainable excellence and longevity, with public chatter about teammates and rivals underscoring the ongoing championship window.

Joe Dumars, the newly appointed president of the New Orleans Pelicans, is making bold moves to reshape the team's roster. After a contentious draft night, Dumars chose Jeremiah Fears with the seventh pick and traded up for Maryland's Derick Queen at thirteenth, giving up an unprotected first-round pick for a highly anticipated 2026 draft. In a significant trade, he exchanged veteran CJ McCollum for Jordan Poole and Saddiq Bey. The biggest question looms over Zion Williamson's future as he struggles with injuries, yet Dumars remains optimistic about his potential, emphasizing accountability and growth.

Despite his injury history, Williamson showcased impressive stats when healthy this past season, averaging 24.6 points and nearly 8 rebounds. The Pelicans faced a disappointing season finishing 21-61, largely due to Williamson’s ongoing health challenges. Dumars is keen on developing chemistry within the current roster while keeping one slot open for flexibility, focusing on continuity and the internal growth of the team.

Kevon Looney's recent move from the Golden State Warriors to the New Orleans Pelicans underscores a pivotal shift in his career and the Warriors' roster dynamics. Looney expressed dissatisfaction with fluctuating minutes and contract uncertainties in San Francisco, leading to his decision to seek a more stable opportunity in New Orleans.

Joining forces with former teammate Jordan Poole, Looney's championship experience is expected to bolster a relatively young Pelicans squad. Last season, he averaged 4.5 points and 6.1 rebounds, but with a more defined role ahead, there's potential for a performance resurgence. Meanwhile, the Warriors face a challenge in filling the void left by Looney, especially with ongoing roster changes.

The Washington Wizards are making strategic moves as they prepare for the upcoming free agency. By trading Kyle Kuzma for Khris Middleton, and Jordan Poole for CJ McCollum and Kelly Olynyk, they have positioned themselves for significant cap space in 2027 when the salary cap is expected to rise. With these trades, they will free up substantial financial flexibility with key veterans off the payroll, including Middleton and Smart, paving the way for potential new signings.

While the addition of Olynyk raised eyebrows, his past performances—especially a memorable game in the 2017 NBA playoffs against the Wizards—remind fans of his capabilities. However, reactions from Wizards fans indicate they might not be thrilled to see him don the Wizards jersey. With mixed sentiments about his arrival, it remains to be seen how he will fit into the team's future plans.