Washington’s 2025-26 training camp roster is exceptionally young, signaling a deliberate rebuild. 21 players, 14 with three or fewer NBA seasons, point to a youth-first approach under Monumental Basketball president Michael Winger and Wizards GM Will Dawkins. The front office is weighing two-way and Exhibit 10 paths, with several players likely headed to the Capital City Go-Go for G League seasoning as the rotation narrows before opening night.

Opening Night for the Oklahoma City Thunder looms as a ceremonial pillar of continuity and defense of a title, with banners dropping and rings being handed out as the team hosts the Houston Rockets. The Thunder’s depth remains intact, a core that keeps them among the league’s top contenders while they chase another championship. A second pregame ring moment is planned after the opener, underscoring the franchise’s pride in its repeat-ready lineup.

Dillon Jones, formerly with OKC, is back in the headlines as he’s slated to receive his championship ring during a visit by Washington to Oklahoma City on Oct. 30. Jones won a ring with the Thunder after a brief rookie season and a salary-dump trade, and now aims for rotation minutes with the Wizards during a rebuild. For fantasy managers, Jones’ return to action and potential minutes in a new role are the key late-season spark to monitor, set against a Thunder squad that remains the favorite to contend this season.

Dillon Jones, a former Oklahoma City Thunder player, showcased his potential during the Summer League, ending his tenure with OKC on a high note. The Thunder traded him to the Washington Wizards, a move that also served as a salary dump for the team. Jones, who had limited playtime in his rookie year, is now aiming to secure a role with the rebuilding Wizards.

Despite starting his NBA journey with a championship, Jones understands the challenges ahead, including the necessity of consistent performance to remain relevant in the league. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander expressed his support for Jones, highlighting their strong practice bond during their time together. As Jones embarks on this new chapter, he looks to leverage lessons learned from both the Thunder and the championship experience to carve out a significant role in Washington.

The Oklahoma City Thunder are making moves post-celebration, locking in big man Jaylin Williams with a three-year, $24 million extension. Williams, a key bench player averaging 5.9 points and 5.6 rebounds last season, has proven valuable in the Thunder's young core, especially when other bigs were sidelined. Meanwhile, guard Dillon Jones has been traded to the Washington Wizards, where he will have the chance to prove himself after a limited role in OKC.

Williams’ retention reflects the Thunder's commitment to their developing talent, while the trade opens a roster spot after their recent draft pick. The restructuring aims to enhance the team’s depth as they navigate through the next season.