The NBA championship race features a defending champion, two recent Finals teams and several dramatically reshaped contenders. The Knicks, Spurs, Thunder, Nuggets, 76ers, Heat, Celtics and Cavaliers all enter with different paths to contention, creating a deep field where star power, roster fit and postseason experience could shape the race.
The Phillies face a pivotal winter after Alex Cora declined their managerial offer again. With Don Mattingly now back in consideration, Philadelphia must also address free agents, roster depth, bullpen concerns and an aging veteran core while deciding how much responsibility to give its younger players.
