The NBA offseason is officially behind us, and all eyes are now on the developments shaping the 2025–26 campaign. From player injuries and contract negotiations to roster moves and the return of the NBA Cup, the league is filled with stories that fans are eager to follow. Below is a look at the most important updates from around the league as teams prepare for tip-off.
Tyler Herro Injury Sets Back the Miami Heat
One of the biggest headlines comes from Miami. All-Star guard Tyler Herro will miss the start of the season after undergoing surgery on his left foot to treat posterior impingement syndrome. The timetable for his return places him somewhere between mid-November and mid-December. For the Heat, this is a serious challenge. Herro has become one of their primary scoring options and a reliable perimeter shooter. His absence means other players will have to step up, and the team will need to adjust its offensive balance early in the season.
Mavericks Bring Back Dennis Smith Jr.
The Dallas Mavericks made a nostalgic move by re-signing guard Dennis Smith Jr. on a one-year contract. Smith was originally drafted by the Mavericks in 2017 and quickly became a fan favorite for his athleticism and energy. His return adds depth to the backcourt behind Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving. While Smith is not expected to be a star, his ability to contribute off the bench and bring defensive intensity could prove valuable during a long season.
Spurs Re-sign Bismack Biyombo
In San Antonio, the Spurs re-signed veteran center Bismack Biyombo. Known for his shot-blocking and rebounding, Biyombo will provide veteran presence and depth at the center position. While Victor Wembanyama remains the franchise centerpiece, having experienced players like Biyombo in the rotation can help balance the roster and ease pressure on younger talents.
Nets Acquire Kobe Bufkin
The Brooklyn Nets made headlines by acquiring guard Kobe Bufkin from the Atlanta Hawks in exchange for cash considerations. Bufkin is still in the early stages of his NBA journey, but he brings potential and upside that the Nets hope to develop. Brooklyn is entering a period of transition, and giving young players meaningful minutes could be the right strategy as they look to rebuild competitiveness in the Eastern Conference.
The Return of the NBA Cup
The league confirmed that the NBA Cup will return for the 2025–26 season. This in-season tournament, previously known as the In-Season Tournament, features all 30 teams competing in a mix of group stages and knockout rounds. The semifinals and championship game will once again take place in Las Vegas at the T-Mobile Arena. The tournament is still relatively new, but it has quickly become a fan-favorite addition to the season, bringing excitement and intensity to games that might otherwise feel routine.
Jonathan Kuminga’s Contract Situation
Another ongoing storyline involves Jonathan Kuminga of the Golden State Warriors. The young forward has yet to finalize his contract situation and is reportedly considering taking the Warriors’ qualifying offer of $7.9 million. Doing so would allow him to enter unrestricted free agency next summer. For Golden State, this presents both an opportunity and a risk. Kuminga has shown flashes of brilliance, and if he continues to develop, the team may regret not securing him on a longer-term deal.
What These Updates Mean for the Season
These stories show how dynamic and unpredictable the NBA remains. Injuries such as Herro’s can shift team dynamics, while signings and trades reshape rosters just before the season begins. The return of the NBA Cup is another reminder of how the league continues to innovate, keeping fans engaged year-round.
For teams like the Heat, early adversity will test their depth and resilience. For the Mavericks, Spurs, and Nets, the latest moves reflect different strategies: adding veteran leadership, protecting young stars, and investing in potential talent. Meanwhile, the Warriors face difficult decisions about balancing present competitiveness with future flexibility.
Final Thoughts
As the 2025–26 NBA season approaches, fans can look forward to a mix of high-stakes competition, emerging talent, and storylines that extend beyond the court. The league continues to evolve, offering drama and excitement at every turn. From injury comebacks to tournament showdowns, the next chapter of NBA history is about to unfold, and it promises to keep basketball fans fully engaged.
