NBA Preseason: LeBron, Trae, Giannis' Biggest Questions

Preseason is over, but the NBA still brims with questions. From the Hawks’ short-term Porziņģis gamble and Trae Young’s looming decision to Giannis saying, "I'm locked into whatever I have in front of me," to Brooklyn’s glut of young playmakers and Boston’s cautious "gap year" after Tatum’s Achilles, health, contracts and fit will decide who contends. Merlin senses patterns: teams with stable cores (Thunder, Nuggets) begin as favorites, fragile veteran groups (Clippers, Lakers) live and die by availability, and young projects (Wizards, Spurs) must prove rapid growth or become trade fodder. Expect injuries, midseason tweaks, and surprise breakouts — the season will bend to whoever stays healthy and finds cohesion first.