What happened: Philadelphia acquired Brown via trade and added James in free agency. Maxey backs the new group after an All-NBA season, with Edgecombe expected to take a step forward.

Why it matters: The moves place a veteran playmaker and a two-way wing beside Embiid. The projected starting five of James, Maxey, Brown, Embiid and Edgecombe faces a preseason sorting of touches and defensive assignments.

What to watch: Watch early preseason minutes for lineup combinations and closing roles.