The Chicago Bulls have officially extended coach Billy Donovan’s contract, signaling a commitment to steady mediocrity with a .492 winning percentage and one playoff win in five seasons. While fans remain skeptical, the front office appears satisfied maintaining a team that hovers just above the lottery, likely resulting in another modest season with limited betting upside.
NBA free agency's biggest moves happened quietly: Denver improved around Jokic, Houston added depth, and the Lakers remain stuck in LeBron limbo. The West got deeper, the East more chaotic, and financial constraints mean fewer surprises ahead. Smart bettors should target improved depth over star power and watch for teams prioritizing playoffs over regular season wins.
Summer league served up rookie drama with Cooper Flagg's rough debut, but the real story is in season win totals. The Thunder's 62.5 looks like easy money, Houston's KD addition makes them legitimate contenders at 54.5, while the Lakers' organizational chaos makes their 48.5 under tempting. The East remains wide open with Cleveland's 56.5 looking too low for a 64-win team running it back.
NBA free agency reshaped the Western Conference as Houston landed Kevin Durant and Denver added depth around Jokić, while Golden State and Lakers got left behind. Milwaukee made a desperate $48M bet on Myles Turner to keep Giannis happy. The West is now a three-tier bloodbath with OKC on top, Houston/Denver battling for second, and chaos in the play-in spots. Damian Lillard's next destination could determine 2026-27 title odds.
Continuity means the Golden State Warriors are still the team to beat in the NBA Western Conference.
The Celtics seek revenge in their second matchup with Cleveland in less than a week. Meanwhile, the Blazers and Hornets look to maintain their surprise starts to the season against perennial playoff contenders.