Utah Jazz fans are steeling for a season built on the long view, not quick wins, as a total roster renovation works to establish depth and flexibility. The 2025-26 schedule lays out three viewing lanes—milestones, reunions, and wild cards—giving fantasy owners concrete checkpoints to chase: opening-night fire, a potential NBA Cup spark, and a high-stakes run to the trade deadline. A steady stream of rookie debuts and notable returns provides multiple paths to value, even as tanking odds loom large.

Milestones anchor the year: Opening Night on Oct. 22 against the Clippers kicks off a sequence of firsts for Bailey, Clayton Jr., and Tonje; the NBA Cup opener vs the Suns tests depth in a mini-tournament setting; the Deadlines’ February clash with the Pacers could reshape the roster; the March 5 home stretch versus the Wizards will sharpen late-season decisions and draft odds dynamics. Reunions bring drama: John Collins returns in Salt Lake City, Collin Sexton seeks revenge in January, and Jordan Clarkson makes a fashionably loud homecoming against the Knicks. The Wild Card section swirls with Rutgers-tinged intrigue and tank chatter across the league, keeping every Jazz game a potential fantasy pivot.

Fox signed a four-year, $229 million extension with the San Antonio Spurs, creating an immediate win-now core around Victor Wembanyama. The deal threads Fox’s All-Star ceiling with Wembanyama’s rookie-era development, while Stephon Castle and Dylan Harper are positioned for rookie extensions on the same timeline. Spurs fans debate cap flexibility, but the piece argues the long-term upside justifies the sacrifice, binding a high-velocity offense to a developing superstar.

Klutch Sports, Rich Paul’s agency, casts a wide net in the league’s power dynamics. While San Antonio isn’t chasing LeBron James, the club’s willingness to financially honor Klutch clients could unlock future marquee targets like Tyrese Maxey, Collin Sexton, or Scotty Pippen Jr. The strategy aims to keep Klutch engaged and open doors to upgrades, marrying a ready-now push with a flexible runway for Wembanyama’s ascent.

Since 2000, the Alabama Crimson Tide has made a notable impact on the NBA Draft, producing 12 players, including six first-round selections. This success spans three head coaches: Mark Gottfried, Avery Johnson, and Nate Oats. Gerald Wallace, picked 25th overall by the Sacramento Kings in 2001, stands out as a significant contributor in the league, while others like Mo Williams and Collin Sexton have also made their mark.

Recent draftees include Brandon Miller, selected 2nd overall in 2023 by the Charlotte Hornets, and Noah Clowney, taken 21st by the Brooklyn Nets. Both are expected to play pivotal roles in their respective teams moving forward, showcasing Alabama's ongoing influence in the NBA.

The Utah Jazz have recently traded forward John Collins to the Los Angeles Clippers in a three-team exchange that also involved the Miami Heat. The Jazz received Kevin Love, Kyle Anderson, and a second-round pick from the Clippers. Speculation suggests Love may not remain with the team long-term, with reports indicating he could be a buyout candidate.

This trade follows the Jazz's previous decision to send Collin Sexton to the Charlotte Hornets for center Jusuf Nurkić while also parting ways with Jordan Clarkson, who has signed with the New York Knicks. Consequently, projections now see the Jazz as strong contenders to secure the worst record in the NBA for the coming season, with an estimated win total around 18, the lowest since the Philadelphia 76ers in the 2014-15 season. Despite the bleak outlook, the Jazz could benefit from their struggles, retaining their 2026 first-round pick if they finish poorly, as the draft class promises several potential stars.

Charlotte Hornets have made significant strides this offseason, highlighted by their aggressive moves during the NBA Draft and free agency. Starting with a bold trade for Collin Sexton, the Hornets sought to address key issues in their roster, particularly the need for defensive strength and veteran leadership. Following this, they re-signed Mason Plumlee, solidifying their frontcourt while bringing continuity. The addition of Pat Connaughton adds depth and experience, essential for playoff aspirations. Furthermore, Spencer Dinwiddie's signing as a mentor for LaMelo Ball showcases the Hornets' commitment to developing their young stars.

This offseason might finally mark a turning point for the Hornets, with a focus on creating synergy between veterans and young talents, which in turn could elevate the team's performance in a competitive Eastern Conference.