What happened: Kentavious Caldwell-Pope plans to follow LeBron James to Philadelphia after clearing waivers. The WNBA stretch run features the Aces' defense, Napheesa Collier's return, Washington's playoff push and a fourth-to-seventh seed cluster.

Why it matters: Caldwell-Pope would add a veteran perimeter option to Philadelphia's pursuit of its first championship since 1983. The Dream, Wings, Fever and Liberty enter the second half with little room for a prolonged slide.

What to watch: Philadelphia's preseason lineups will offer the first look at its revamped rotation. Early post-break results will begin separating the WNBA's middle seeds.