What happened: The predictions package Along with the Philadelphia durability call and Toronto defensive call, it forecasts a combined MVP and Defensive Player of the Year season for Wembanyama.

Why it matters: Philadelphia availability will shape Eastern Conference seeding if the starting unit misses extended time. Toronto enters the opener after shuffling two-way center depth, making early defensive results the first test of the forecast.

What to watch: Opening-week rotations and first defensive ratings will show whether the forecasts hold.