This time last year, the Boston Celtics were the defending NBA champions, and many wondered how many more titles their loaded core could deliver.

Fast forward to present day, and that core has largely been dismantled, with the Celtics fresh off a second-round exit against the Knicks and no longer considered a Finals contender.

It goes to show how quickly the NBA landscape can change.

That’s what makes the start of every season so compelling. Roster shakeups, sudden ascensions and, unfortunately, injuries often shift the league’s balance, leaving fans nothing to do but buckle in for the next eight months.

Before the 2025-26 regular season officially tips off on Tuesday night, here are 10 things to watch for.

BEAST OF THE EAST

The Eastern Conference is there for the taking, as the

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