The Oklahoma City Thunder have claimed their first NBA title in 2025, a remarkable achievement largely credited to GM Sam Presti's astute trading strategies. Presti’s pivotal decision to trade Paul George to the Los Angeles Clippers in 2019 has redefined the franchise's trajectory. The Thunder's return from the Clippers was monumental, including franchise cornerstone Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and multiple high-value draft picks.

Gilgeous-Alexander has since blossomed into an MVP, and fellow draft pick Jalen Williams has also emerged as an All-NBA talent. This duo has not only led the Thunder to championship glory, but they also represent two of the brightest stars in the league today.

Kelly Oubre Jr. has opted into his $8.4 million player option for the 2025-26 NBA season, ensuring his return to the Philadelphia 76ers. This decision comes after a season where Oubre averaged 15.1 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 1.8 assists, alongside shooting 47% from the field. With Oubre set to join a lineup that potentially features Tyrese Maxey, Joel Embiid, and Paul George, the Sixers aim to significantly improve upon their disappointing 24-58 record. The team is looking to solidify its rotation amidst injuries affecting other Eastern Conference contenders.

Oubre's choice to remain with the Sixers adds depth to their roster, particularly as they navigate the offseason and define roles alongside new draft pick VJ Edgecombe. The front office is optimistic about the upcoming season, hoping that the primary players will stay healthy enough to capitalize on their collective talent and remold their identity in the league.

Philadelphia 76ers rookie Johni Broome arrives with a strong college pedigree, having been selected 35th overall in the 2025 NBA Draft. He averaged an impressive 18.6 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks per game during his final season at Auburn, where he earned SEC Player of the Year honors. Broome’s competitive nature is evident as he expresses a deep disdain for losing, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and accountability. With potential roster changes, including Guerschon Yabusele's expected departure in free agency, Broome might find himself with ample opportunities to contribute as a rookie.

Broome believes his winning mentality and personality will mesh well with the Sixers’ established stars like Joel Embiid, Paul George, and Tyrese Maxey, who are set to lead the team in the upcoming 2025-26 season. He aims to hone his skills and develop into a key player in the NBA, eager to blend his fiery competitive spirit with a fun-loving attitude off the court.

The Oklahoma City Thunder have clinched their first NBA championship, thanks in large part to the standout performances of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams, who have emerged as a formidable All-Star duo. Their success can be traced back to the pivotal trade with the LA Clippers in 2019 that sent Paul George to LA. While many considered this a win for the Clippers, the Thunder leveraged the deal to secure future first-round picks, ultimately leading to their championship roster.

Paul George, a multi-time All-Star, expressed his congratulations to the Thunder and the team's leadership during his recent podcast episode. He acknowledged how his departure catalyzed an extended championship window for OKC, suggesting that the trade's consequences have made a lasting impact on the franchise.

The Philadelphia 76ers are determined to bounce back from a disappointing season in which their star trio of Joel Embiid, Paul George, and Tyrese Maxey failed to deliver as expected. Chemistry issues and injuries led the team to miss the playoffs, despite high hopes following George's acquisition. To address their need for youthful energy, the Sixers selected 19-year-old VJ Edgecombe with the No. 3 pick in the 2025 draft. Known for his athleticism and a vertical leap of 40 inches, Edgecombe aims to complement the existing core and contribute to the team's championship aspirations.

Edgecombe expressed enthusiasm about joining the 76ers, emphasizing his eagerness to help the franchise return to its winning ways. His addition bolsters a roster that includes established stars like Embiid and George, while also providing a glimpse into the future with a promising young talent. The 76ers’ management, led by Daryl Morey, sees Edgecombe as a key piece in their ongoing quest for an NBA title.