New roles across the Eastern Conference
NBA analyst Shaun Powell identifies one storyline for each of the league's 30 teams before the 2026-27 season. The survey concerns expectations and developing situations, rather than completed results.
Atlanta's focus is defence, with Lu Dort joining Dyson Daniels and Nickeil Alexander-Walker around Jalen Johnson. Boston faces a larger leadership role for Jayson Tatum without Jaylen Brown, while Paul George is described as a supporting presence at this stage of his career. Miami pairs Giannis Antetokounmpo with Bam Adebayo. Milwaukee begins a rebuilding period around Tyler Herro and its incoming young players.
Philadelphia has added LeBron James to a group featuring Tyrese Maxey, Brown and Joel Embiid. The analysis suggests that supporting cast could share the workload of a player approaching his 42nd birthday. Chicago, Brooklyn and Washington have different development questions involving recent draft selections.
Returns and new combinations in the West
Dallas welcomes Kyrie Irving back after a season lost to knee surgery as it builds around Cooper Flagg. Houston looks to Fred VanVleet to connect Kevin Durant with his teammates, while Portland's returning Damian Lillard brings experience to a group that includes Ja Morant and younger players.
The Lakers' outlook centres on Luka Dončić, Austin Reaves and Walker Kessler. Minnesota introduces a LaMelo Ball and Anthony Edwards partnership, while Utah develops Darryn Peterson alongside Keyonte George. Golden State hopes rookie Yaxel Lendeborg can contribute while Jimmy Butler recovers.
These are the author's assessments of possible progress, fit and responsibility across the league. They offer subjects to monitor during the season without turning projected improvement or championship potential into established outcomes.