Bilal Coulibaly underwent surgery on a right-thumb ligament, a move that likely sidelines him at the start of the 2025-26 season. The 21-year-old No. 7 pick averaged 6.3 points and 4.3 rebounds in Eurobasket, flashing development after a breakout sophomore year (12.3 PPG, 5.0 RPG). Washington’s brightest young core—Alex Sarr, Tre Johnson, Will Riley—now faces an early-season rise in responsibility, joined by Cam Whitmore and other first‑round hopefuls. Veteran help from CJ McCollum and Khris Middleton, plus a reshaped rotation after Poole’s move to New Orleans, keeps playoff odds distant ( +3000 ) but not impossible if the youth flourishes.

The Wizards’ 2023-24 and 2024-25 narratives converge: minimal recent wins, a hopeful pipeline, and a front office embracing youth with a veteran bridge. The injury compounds uncertainty around opening-night lineups, tempo, and scoring balance, but it also sets up late-season momentum if Coulibaly returns healthy and the rookies hit their marks. The margin remains thin, but the path to relevance for Washington stays open with the right development arc.

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.

NBA free agency has rekindled excitement as notable players like Damian Lillard and Chris Paul make nostalgic returns to their former teams. Lillard, who was waived by the Milwaukee Bucks due to a torn Achilles, is set to return to the Portland Trail Blazers for the 2026-27 season. Meanwhile, Chris Paul reunites with the Los Angeles Clippers, partnering with stars like Kawhi Leonard and James Harden, placing L.A. back in the championship conversation.

The offseason has sparked memories of potential player reunions that could reshape teams. Could LeBron James return to the Cleveland Cavaliers one last time for a fairytale ending? Alternatively, a return to Miami might create a dynamic trio with Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo. Kevin Durant rejoining the Oklahoma City Thunder would not only heal old wounds but also potentially form an elite partnership with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Additionally, the idea of CJ McCollum returning to Portland after a stint with the Wizards is both heartwarming and strategically interesting for the Trail Blazers, as they look to blend nostalgia with competitiveness.