The NBA preseason is weeks away, but insiders flag under‑reported concerns that could derail title contenders heading into the 2026‑27 season. DraftKings odds give the San Antonio Spurs and Oklahoma City Thunder the longest shots at 270, while the New York Knicks, Philadelphia 76ers, and Boston Celtics sit at 900 and 1300 respectively.

San Antonio added Tobias Harris on a two‑year, $31 million deal and re‑signed Julian Champagnie to a three‑year, $45 million contract, creating a forward logjam. Coach Mitch Johnson must decide whether the veteran Harris or starter Champagnie earns the opening nod.

Oklahoma City’s depth suffered when Isaiah Joe, Aaron Wiggins and Lu Dort were traded to curb a sky‑high tax bill, leaving younger, cheaper options that may lower the regular‑season ceiling. Health is critical; Jalen Williams missed 49 regular‑season games and 10 playoff contests last year.

The New York Knicks must sort Karl‑Anthony Towns’ contract extension and miss Mitchell Robinson, while Philadelphia 76ers must blend LeBron James, Jaylen Brown, Tyrese Maxey and Joel Embiid into a unit that could take season and hinge on keeping Embiid and the 41‑year‑old James healthy. The Boston Celtics need to replace Brown’s 28.7 points per game, with Payton Pritchard, Derrick White and others stepping up.