What happened: The NBA recognized the veteran center on July 15.

Why it matters: As the center enters his age-31 season, analytical evaluations continue to track his frontcourt efficiency, including early plus-minus splits tracked by analysts this summer. Rotation spots and minutes allocation across the league will settle during fall training camps leading into opening night.

What to watch: Preseason rosters will take shape as training camps open in September for the 2026-27 NBA schedule.