Overview
- The NBA has opened an exclusive process to add teams in Seattle and Las Vegas, with ownership vetting underway and expansion-draft rules still to be announced.
- A Sporting News mock draft forecasts Anthony Davis going to a revived Seattle team at No. 1 and Joel Embiid heading to Las Vegas at No. 2.
- The Embiid projection hinges on him being 34 and in the final $67 million year of his deal in 2028–29, which could make him a short-term draw for a new club.
- Expansion drafts let each team protect only a limited number of players, so front offices may shield the best-value contracts and expose aging stars with large salaries.
- Analysts say an Embiid selection would clear cap space for the 76ers and they list Jimmy Butler, Kyrie Irving, Zach LaVine, and Andrew Wiggins as similar candidates.