The NBA resumed play after the All-Star break with the Indiana Pacers demonstrating their depth, capable of playing an 11-deep roster when healthy. Each player averages 17 minutes per game, showcasing the team's strategic flexibility. Meanwhile, the league's offensive rating has dipped from last season. Several sources attribute this to recent officiating changes that have impacted game flow.
Victor Wembanyama of the San Antonio Spurs will miss the remainder of the season due to deep vein thrombosis in his right shoulder. This news marks a challenging chapter for the Spurs, who have navigated an emotional season alongside the health scare of Coach Gregg Popovich, who suffered a stroke earlier in November. Despite these setbacks, the team acquired De'Aaron Fox, positioning him for a potential extension this summer.
"Motivated teams will find a way to get things done." – An executive
The Oklahoma City Thunder boasts an average age of 24.1 years, emphasizing the league's shift towards younger rosters. This trend is visible in teams like the Cavaliers and Thunder, which lead the league with two 7-footers among their top players.
"It's a copycat league. You see Cleveland playing two bigs and having success, and other teams are going to try to copy that model." – An executive
The 2025 NBA trade deadline saw significant activity, with teams opting to secure deals now rather than wait for the offseason. The Warriors became even older with their midseason trade for 35-year-old Butler, while the Lakers and Bucks made major moves involving Doncic and Kyle Kuzma, facilitated by third-party teams.
"With the style of the games and the pace of play, the league has never been more physically demanding." – A general manager
"It wears guys down and out." – A general manager
The Memphis Grizzlies traded Marcus Smart at the deadline to ensure contracts for Santi Aldama and Jaren Jackson Jr., underlining strategic financial planning as teams navigate new collective bargaining agreements.
"I think what we've seen is the real penal place to be is the second apron, and mostly because of the [rule against aggregating contracts]." – An executive
The aging Warriors face challenges in maintaining competitiveness as older teams struggle without strong chemistry and continuity.
"A lot of times, successful teams have been older ones. I think it's harder now to go out and create a team of older players without having chemistry and continuity. I don't know if that model is going to work anymore." – An executive
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