The Cavaliers add Larry Nance Jr. as a versatile frontcourt piece off the bench, designed to relieve Mobley and Allen and keep the unit functional when the starters rest. His floor-spreading shooting, hustle deflection, and stable decision-making help Cleveland maintain spacing and energy without a burst star power. Health is a concern, so expect a steady, understated impact rather than game-changing runs.

LeBron James’ Lakers future hangs on a delicate balance of stay-or-sell headlines and deadline pressure, with Buha’s odds slipping from 85% toward a 75/25 split if retirement chatter rises or LA stumbles by the trade deadline. Luka Dončić’s arrival is cited as a game-changer for the Lake Show, reshaping championship math and usage dynamics around an aging superstar. Cleveland’s Max Strus absence adds depth concerns for the Cavaliers, who sit atop the East as a contrasting arc to LA’s window. Fantasy takeaway: LeBron remains elite but risk rises with time and external forces; Luka’s continued dominance keeps LA’s core in flux, while Strus’ absence heightens Cavs’ depth value and deadline watch.

LeBron’s legacy, the Luka pivot, and Strus’ health fuse into a narrative that could tilt rosters and deadlines. The Cavaliers’ seed status and potential LeBron-Cavs rumors add layers for fantasy managers to monitor—roster moves, rest plans, and rotation tweaks that could shift fantasy ceilings across LA and Cleveland. In short, stay flexible: LeBron may stay, Luka may amplify, and depth plays over raw stars could win down the stretch.

Max Strus will miss the start of Cleveland's season after foot surgery, likely sidelining him for roughly 20-30 games. The Cavaliers shift to a rotation that leans on De’Andre Hunter at the three, increasing his early fantasy value while testing wing depth behind him. Beasley remains a potential, but the club’s payroll and luxury tax constraints make a major signing unlikely right away. For fantasy managers, Hunter’s immediate role and Beasley’s next step are the key questions as the season opens.

Andrew Nembhard is projected to exceed 16.5 points and assists in a critical game against the Cavaliers, as he averages 15.8 points and 6.7 assists per 36 minutes. In competitive scenarios, his output rises significantly, making him a reliable option for fantasy players. Aaron Gordon is also a strong bet, set at over 26.5 points, rebounds, and assists, thanks to his consistent performance in the series against the Thunder.

Additionally, Chet Holmgren is anticipated to grab over 9.5 rebounds, showcasing his rebounding prowess despite some offensive struggles. Max Strus, with a line of over 2.5 threes, is gaining traction as Cleveland leans on him due to injuries among their key players. Each of these players represents an intriguing investment for bettors looking to capitalize on playoff dynamics.