What happened: Zaidi is advising the club's ownership after holding senior roles in Major League Baseball. He said the organization committed substantial resources this season but has fallen short of expectations.

Why it matters: The assignment extends Zaidi's roster-building work into professional basketball. His baseball background brings a different personnel lens to the club's decisions.

What to watch: Watch whether the club buys, sells or stands pat before the cutoff. Any completed move will clarify ownership's response to the disappointing season.