The upcoming NBA season is sure to bring all the action on the court and plenty of drama for fans who love it. With returning champions carrying massive targets on their backs and superstars changing teams, the balance of power in the league has transformed over the summer.
With anticipation surrounding the 2026–27 season already at a fever pitch, here are the top 5 storylines to watch this year.
Is This LeBron James’ Final Run in Philly?
At 41 years old, LeBron James remains the face of the NBA. Following his decision to leave the Los Angeles Lakers for the Philadelphia 76ers this summer, stepping onto the floor for his 24th season joining forces with Tyrese MaxeyJoel Embiid and Jaylen Brown, James is looking to win his fifth ring. Making his first official appearance as a Sixer on Media Day, James shared how this is a “championship or bust” year for his new squad. “For us to be great, we have to do things that are just not comfortable. … I didn’t leave my family to lose in the second round, I know that,” James said. “Work needs to be done, and I’m ready to put the work in.”
Jalen Duren’s Drama In Detroit Continues
The friction between Jalen Duren and the Detroit Pistons front office is still on and popping. After contract negotiations on an extension broke down, Duren declined the team’s five-year, $200 million fully guaranteed offer in restricted free agency. Reportedly, the contract came with a controversial weight clause, and things are getting ugly as Duren announced he is not attending Detroit Pistons Media Day or the start of training camp. Once viewed as Cade Cunningham’s co-star, Duren has until Thursday to sign a one-year, $9.6 million qualifying offer, which would signal his eventual exit from Detroit.
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Kawhi Leonard Speaks for the First Time Since NBA Salary Cap Scandal
Shaking off the fallout of the Clippers’ league investigation for salary cap circumvention, Kawhi Leonard is back with the Toronto Raptors. The long-awaited reunion instantly vaults the Raptors back into Eastern Conference contention. At Media Day, “The Claw” addressed the investigation for the first time. “You want to hear about the investigation,” Leonard told reporters. “I think the best decision is to move forward and focus on my time being a Toronto Raptor. … I just want to focus on basketball.” Even though he’s on a new squad, the cloud of the investigation will hang over Lenorard as he will be asked about his role in the scandal all season.
Will Karl-Anthony Towns Get His Money?
After winning their first championship since 1973, all eyes are on the New York Knicks’ front office as Karl-Anthony Towns enters the final year of his deal before a massive $61 million player option in 2027–28. Coming off a dominant championship run, KAT and the Knicks have not agreed upon a new contract. For the first time since bringing a title to NYC, Towns spoke about his contract situation. “I’ve made it known I want to play here; I’ve been a fan since I was young,” Towns said. “I would like to get one done, of course. Get it done so I can step on the court and feel as comfortable as possible.” With second-apron tax penalties looming, the Knicks have to balance locking down their four-time All-Star or risk a costly summer showdown down the road.
This is Jayson Tatum’s Most Important Season
After Jaylen Brown was traded to the Sixers, the Boston Celtics’ old identity officially dissolved. Now, the Celtics are officially Jayson Tatum’s team. In his first full season back following a devastating Achilles rupture, Tatum will prove whether he’s just a superstar talent or an undisputed alpha who can deliver success in Beantown on his own terms. He spoke about how he’s dealing with life after Jaylen Brown. “It’s tough… Business of the NBA always plays a part at some point,” said Tatum. “I’m grateful for what we accomplished.
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