The New York Knicks will open the 2025/26 campaign among the Eastern Conference favorites after last season’s trip to the conference finals, but the organization views durability as its biggest hurdle. Forward OG Anunoby and newly acquired center Karl-Anthony Towns have each dealt with frequent setbacks, and almost every rotation player missed time during the most recent postseason. To guard against another injury-ridden stretch, the front office added several veterans during the summer.
Celtics reset after busy offseason
In Boston, expectations are more guarded. NBC Sports Boston reporter Chris Forsberg surveyed fellow analysts and found a notably cautious outlook following an offseason that sent Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porziņģis elsewhere, while reserve center Luke Kornet departed in free agency and veteran Al Horford is expected to do the same. The primary concern is Jayson Tatum’s Achilles injury, which could keep the All-NBA forward off the court until the 2026/27 season. Until then, the Celtics will rely on internal growth and roster depth.
Queta targets larger role
Center Neemias Queta, formerly the fourth option in Boston’s frontcourt, plans to compete for expanded minutes alongside newcomers Luka Garza and Chris Boucher. After undergoing knee surgery earlier in the offseason, Queta told Eurohoops he feels “in the best position to have a breakout season.”
Bona represents Turkey
Second-year Philadelphia 76ers forward Adem Bona will play for Turkey at EuroBasket. Born in Nigeria, Bona relocated to Turkey at age 13, the point at which he began to pursue basketball seriously. “My first basketball shoes were given to me by a friend,” he recalled to BasketNews, adding that he was drawn to the sport’s pace and tempo.
Source: Hoops Wire
