What happened: Saddiq Bey started 64 games last season and averaged 18.9 points while shooting 45.8% from the field and 37.7% from 3. As the closest defender, he held opponents to 47% shooting, ranking eighth among players who defended at least 550 shots, per GeniusIQ tracking.

Why it matters: That two-way production adds detail to why Bey agreed to a three-year, $55.5 million extension this week. Efficient spot-up scoring and credible primary matchup defense give him a stable case for major minutes heading into 2026-27.

What to watch: Watch whether that scoring volume and defensive workload carry into training camp and the opening rotation for 2026-27. If those numbers hold, the year-one extension value case should look straightforward.