What happened: Brooklyn added Julius Randle on a salary-dump deal to raise the floor. Noah Clowney started 60 games last season and returns alongside Danny Wolf in a crowded frontcourt. Egor Demin added bulk after flashing improved downhill play in summer league.
Why it matters: Randle is 31 with an opt-out next summer and does not align with a long rebuild timeline. Porter is set to make $40.8 million before unrestricted free agency, forcing an extend-or-trade decision.
By the numbers: Randle averaged 21.7 points and 8.9 rebounds over the past eight years. Clowney started 60 games last season entering his fourth year.
What to watch: Watch whether Josh Minott claims 3-and-D minutes and how Wolf and Clowney divide frontcourt reps in camp.