Philadelphia signed four Exhibit 10 players—Emoni Bates, Kennedy Chandler, Malcolm Hill and Jaylen Martin—ahead of camp, setting up a crowded preseason battle for the final rotation and potential G League assignments with the Delaware Blue Coats looming for 2025-26. Bates brings size and G-League scoring upside but a troubled college path; Chandler adds playmaking and defense; Hill offers wing scoring; Martin contributes guard versatility. Camp will reveal who earns a real NBA look and who sticks in the Gainesville/Delaware pipeline.

The Brooklyn Nets have a storied jersey history featuring 52 different numbers worn by over 600 players since their inception in 1967. Originally known as the New Jersey Americans in the ABA, the franchise transitioned through various names before settling on the Brooklyn Nets. Jersey No. 16 has been donned by three players throughout the franchise’s history, with Jaylen Martin being the most recent. Martin, who played only three games for the Nets in 2024, recorded a modest average of 1.0 points per game. His journey began with an undrafted stint in the G League, illustrating the challenges faced by players in professional basketball.

Martin's short tenure highlights the competitive nature of the NBA and the often turbulent path for young athletes seeking to establish themselves. Despite being cut in 2025, his experience with the Nets will be a part of the team's evolving legacy, contributing to the rich tapestry of players who have worn the Nets’ colors over the decades.

The Brooklyn Nets have made a significant roster change by waiving two-way wing Jaylen Martin and signing Tosan Evbuomwan to a two-way contract. Evbuomwan, who recently played with the San Diego Clippers in the G League, showcased impressive stats, averaging 19 points and 6.8 rebounds over 18 games. His journey in the NBA has seen him play for the Detroit Pistons and Memphis Grizzlies, totaling 17 games this season.

Evbuomwan, a former Princeton standout, went undrafted in 2023 after a successful college career, including being named Player of the Year in his conference. Despite starting basketball later than most at age 14, he has developed a versatile skill set. His shooting, initially a concern, has improved, evidenced by his performance in the G League.

The Brooklyn Nets are set to kick off 2025 with significant roster changes, highlighted by the arrivals of D’Angelo Russell and Maxwell Lewis. Acquired in a trade with the Los Angeles Lakers, the duo replaces Dorian Finney-Smith and Shake Milton. Russell expressed excitement about returning to Brooklyn, a place he knows well, which he believes will ease his transition back to the team.

This marks Russell's second tenure with the Nets, where he previously played from 2017 to 2019, earning an All-Star selection during that period. His current season stats show an average of 12.4 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 4.7 assists per game.

Despite the excitement, head coach Jordi Fernandez has yet to confirm if either Russell or Lewis will play in their upcoming game against the Toronto Raptors due to their limited practice time. Additionally, the Nets have signed Tosan Evbuomwan to a two-way contract, further reshaping their roster.

The Orlando Magic are set to embark on a five-game road trip, starting with a matchup against the Brooklyn Nets at Barclays Center. The Magic come in hot, winning 10 of their last 11 games, while the Nets recently completed a successful three-game road trip.

Injury concerns loom for both teams, with key players sidelined for the Nets, including Bojan Bogdanovic and several others listed as questionable. The game also serves as an NBA Cup contest in East Group A.