In addition to welcoming the new year, Jan. 1 serves as a de facto midpoint of baseball’s offseason. It has been just about two months since the Dodgers hoisted the Commissioner’s Trophy as back-to-back champs, and we’re roughly two months away from spring training games commencing in Arizona and Florida. 

By some measures, this halfway mark is reflected in the amount of transactional activity that has occurred thus far, as 27 of our Top 50 free agents have signed new deals. But a closer look at our rankings makes it clear that there’s a substantial amount of important business left to be settled: Nine of our top 15 free agents are still unsigned, including three of the top four. 

While it’s hardly uncommon for some top free agents to linger on the market into February, this plethora of unsigned stars — plus a handful of high-profile trade candidates and several contending teams that have yet to make any major moves — sets the stage for January to be an especially compelling month across MLB. There is plenty to be resolved before pitchers and catchers report to camp in mid-February. 

Here are the eight biggest questions that will be answered in the coming weeks.

1. Who will sign Kyle Tucker?

After consecutive offseasons with generational talents inking gargantuan, historic contracts in Shohei Ohtani and Juan Soto, Tucker entered this winter as a relatively underwhelming Best Free Agent Available, with a fraction of the hype and fanfare often associated with the player carrying that label. But even if Tucker was unlikely to produce a frenzied bidding war like recent premier free agents, it’s interesting that we’ve made it to 2026 with barely any buzz about his potential suitors, outside of a reported visit to the Blue Jays’ spring training facility in Dunedin (conveniently located near Tucker’s hometown, Tampa). This lack of clarity is a stark contrast to Ohtani and Soto, whose deals were signed and sealed by mid-December, and it makes Tucker’s free agency top of mind as we begin the new year. 

While the Jays loom as a logical landing spot for Tucker, that seems to have as much to do with their being one of the few teams willing to dole out the kind of megadeal he’s seeking as it does with their roster being the cleanest fit for his services. Toronto is clearly ready to spend, having made the biggest splash of this offseason so far by signing right-hander Dylan Cease to a seven-year, $210 million deal. It’s unclear if the team’s interest in Tucker supersedes its goal of retaining homegrown star Bo Bichette, another top free agent still unsigned. 

Look beyond Toronto, and it’s not clear which other clubs are eager to splurge on Tucker as a franchise anchor. The Cubs don’t seem especially keen on a reunion, even after paying a hefty price to acquire Tucker from Houston a year ago. The Dodgers have room in their outfield but limited appetite to hand out a deal of significant length. The Phillies’ outfield doesn’t project particularly favorably, but they seem content with their addition of Adolis García and are ready to give top prospect Justin Crawford some playing time. The Giants have a clear opening in right field but reportedly aren’t eager to spend at the top of the market. 

For as cloudy as the outlook is now, a suitor will eventually emerge. And no matter which team ultimately signs him, Tucker’s deal promises to impact the rest of the market.

2. When will the starting pitching market shake loose?

Besides Toronto moving quickly and aggressively to sign Cease, we’ve yet to see many starting pitchers find homes in new rotations, either in free agency or via trade. The largest non-Cease deals for starters so far have involved pitchers staying put, including Michael King re-signing with San Diego, Brandon Woodruff and Shota Imanaga accepting qualifying offers, and Merrill Kelly returning to Arizona after a cameo with Texas. We’ve also seen some pitchers return from Asian leagues to sign major-league deals, including Cody Ponce (Blue Jays), Anthony Kay (White Sox), Ryan Weiss (Astros) and Foster Griffin (Nationals), plus a few lower-profile arms changing threads in Adrian Houser (Giants), Dustin May (Cardinals) and Tyler Mahle (Giants).

But several intriguing rotation options remain unsigned, including 10 of the 18 starting pitchers on our Top 50. That group is headlined by left-handers Framber Valdez and Ranger Suárez, and it includes accomplished right-handers Zac Gallen and Lucas Giolito, who could certainly strengthen a starting staff. Giolito recently spoke to how quiet the market has been thus far in his experience, but based on the number of notable arms unsigned, it seems he’s not alone. One domino that could help kickstart some movement is Japanese right-hander Tatsuya Imai, whose deadline to sign with an MLB club is 5 p.m. ET Friday. His landing spot should help clarify which clubs are still looking to add starting pitching in the weeks to come.

The trade market for starting pitchers has been a bit more active, with Sonny Gray (Red Sox),Shane Baz (Orioles), Johan Oviedo (Red Sox), Mike Burrows (Astros) and Grayson Rodriguez (Angels) dealt already this winter. That said, there are several more impact arms who could be on the move before Opening Day. Miami’s pair of veteran right-handers, Sandy Alcantara and Edward Cabrera, have been in trade rumors for more than a year. Perhaps the new front office in Washington will deal MacKenzie Gore for a hefty prospect package.Maybe Milwaukee will trade Freddy Peralta with a year left on his contract, as it did with Corbin Burnes. And speaking of expiring contracts, there’s spicy speculation surrounding Tigers superace Tarik Skubal and whether Detroit would have the stomach to trade the best pitcher on the planet before he reaches free agency next winter.

Whether or not we see a seismic swap involving Skubal or some lesser exchanges league-wide, once free-agent starters start to come off the board, don’t be surprised to see a series of trades to address rotations still in need of reinforcements.

3. When will the New York Yankees wake up and do something?

It has been a stunningly quiet offseason in the Bronx, with New York’s lone external addition being Rule 5 pick Cade Winquest from St. Louis. While Winquest’s selection is notable in that New York hadn’t taken a player in the Rule 5 Draft since 2011, that’s not exactly the genre of transaction Yankees fans are used to buzzing about this time of year. Trent Grisham accepting the qualifying offer set an odd tone for the Yankees’ offseason plans, as many expected him to decline the one-year deal in search of a longer pact elsewhere; instead, a sizable salary was committed to Grisham. A trio of unsexy re-signings soon followed, with the returns of utilityman Amed Rosario and pitchers Ryan Yarbrough and Paul Blackburn.

The Yankees’ top offseason priority is yet another in-house name, with free-agent outfielder Cody Bellingerreportedly New York’s top target after a fantastic first season in the Bronx. But even if the Yankees re-sign Bellinger and run it back with what was baseball’s most productive outfield in 2025, alongside Grisham and MVP Aaron Judge, is that really all New York is going to do coming off an ALDS exit at the hands of Toronto? And if Bellinger lands elsewhere, how will general manager Brian Cashman pivot in an effort to meaningfully improve the roster? 

How the Yankees proceed from here will hinge on team owner Hal Steinbrenner’s willingness to push the payroll to new heights. Any amount of penny-pinching at this point is likely to result in Bellinger departing and/or a roster that looks almost entirely unchanged from 2025. And it’s difficult to imagine that being received particularly well among Yankees fans.

4. Do the Orioles have another big move in them?

While the Yankees have stayed on the hot stove sideline, the rest of the AL East has been plenty active. The Blue Jays have spent more than any other club in free agency ($277 million) and are looking to add more. The Rays have made a couple of major trades to shake up their roster and bolster their farm system. The Red Sox haven’t signed any free agents but have added three big-league pieces via trades for starters Sonny Gray and Johan Oviedo and a big bat in Willson Contreras. 

And perhaps no team in baseball has been busier than the Baltimore Orioles, who handed out the largest contract to a free-agent hitter thus far (Pete Alonso, $155M) and parted with the largest prospect package so far in a trade to land Shane Baz from Tampa Bay. Add the acquisition of slugger Taylor Ward to co-star with Alonso in the heart of the order, the signing of closer Ryan Helsley and the return of right-hander Zach Eflin, and it’s clear that Baltimore is focused on retooling the roster to ensure better results after a miserably disappointing 2025. 

Yet for all the Orioles have done this offseason, it’s hard not to wonder if there’s more to come before the club opens camp in Sarasota. Adding an impact starting pitcher was a stated priority for president of baseball operations Mike Elias at the outset of the offseason, and while Baz could become that caliber of pitcher with the right tweaks, he doesn’t quite fit the bill of what Baltimore seemed to be searching for. As mentioned above, several starters with gaudier résumés than Baz’s remain available on the free-agent and trade markets, and the O’s remain an ideal landing spot for one of those arms. It has already been an exciting winter in Birdland, but reeling in one more top-tier rotation arm would be the perfect finishing touch for Elias and Co.

5. Will Ketel Marte be traded?

If the D-backs decide to trade Ketel Marte — comfortably the best second baseman in baseball — that would be a humongous transaction that could fundamentally alter his new club’s outlook entering 2026 (not to mention what would be an enormous return for the Snakes). The latest reports out of Arizona suggest that a resolution one way or another is expected soon, with general manager Mike Hazen preferring to move on with the rest of the club’s offseason rather than stay stuck in the haze of uncertainty. That’s an understandable sentiment considering the state of Arizona’s pitching staff: considerably undermanned relative to the team’s stout position-player group and in need of an addition. If upgrades aren’t going to come via a Marte trade, it’s important for the Snakes to add on the mound via other avenues sooner rather than later.

In the event that Marte stays put, who will be the best hitter traded this offseason? Willson Contreras, Taylor Ward, Brandon Lowe, Jeff McNeil, Brandon Nimmo and Marcus Semien represent the most significant position players dealt so far, but there’s bound to be a few more major bats traded before Opening Day. Beyond Marte, St. Louis’ Brendan Donovan represents an exciting alternative for teams seeking a second baseman and could net a major return.

The Cardinals are also still trying to trade Nolan Arenado, just as they were a year ago. It would make plenty of sense for the Red Sox to trade from their surplus of outfielders, making Jarren Duran and Wilyer Abreu names to watch. Chicago center fielder Luis Robert Jr. remains an enticing target for his upside, but the White Sox seem to be keeping his price quite high. Of course, the most fun trades are the ones that none of us sees coming, so maybe there will be another high-profile hitter on the move in the coming weeks.

Bruno Rouby/Yahoo Sports

6. How will the Mets fill out their new-look roster?

Having dramatically purged four of the franchise’s most prominent players from the past decade — Pete Alonso, Edwin Díaz, Brandon Nimmo and Jeff McNeil, all through varying means of baseball breakups — the Mets are seemingly in the early stages of reshaping their roster. So far, those players’ exits are carrying notably more weight than the additions the team has made. 

Now, it’s worth noting that the Mets have added four major leaguers projected to play key roles in Devin Williams, Luke Weaver, Marcus Semien and Jorge Polanco — very few other teams have added as much to their major-league roster this offseason. But because such a staggering amount of talent has departed from Queens, it feels like the Mets haven’t taken a meaningful step forward yet.

Given how much of a disaster 2025 was, it’s understandable, if even logical, for president of baseball operations David Stearns to want to shake up the roster in a serious way around franchise anchors Francisco Lindor and Juan Soto. But now it’s on Stearns and team owner Steve Cohen to chart an appropriately aggressive path forward to ensure that a club with a payroll in excess of $300 million doesn’t miss the postseason in consecutive years. There’s still impact talent available in free agency and on the trade market for the Mets to improve their squad and reenergize an emotionally spent fan base.

7. Will Alex Bregman and Bo Bichette find new homes?

Beyond Kyle Tucker in the top spot, Bregman and Bichette are the top free-agent hitters who remain unsigned into the new year. But unlike Tucker, who is widely expected to leave the Cubs after his one year on the North Side, these two infielders entered the winter under the assumption that their incumbent clubs would be aggressive in trying to retain them, considering their outsized importance to their respective franchises.

Bichette has spent nearly a decade in the Blue Jays’ organization and has been vocal about his desire to stay in Toronto and chase a championship with his close friend Vladimir Guerrero Jr., a dream that was nearly realized in 2025 thanks to the co-stars’ epic efforts against the Dodgers in the World Series. Seeing Bichette in a different uniform would be as jarring as any free-agent move this winter (though Pete Alonso rocking an Orioles jersey is the clear leader in that clubhouse for now). With far more teams needing second basemen than shortstops this offseason, Bichette has reportedly expressed a willingness to move to second, where his defense profiles better long-term. If that’s relevant in the event he stays in Toronto or the Jays revert to the alignment that had Bichette at short remains to be seen, but Bichette’s bat matters most, whether atop Toronto’s lineup or strengthening another contender’s offense.

Bregman’s sample of impact in Boston is far shorter than Bichette’s in Toronto, but he was exactly what Boston was looking for both on and off the field after signing as a free agent a year ago and could fill a crucial role in the infield if he remains. Bregman reportedly has several suitors, including the D-backs, Cubs and, intriguingly, the Blue Jays, which means his landing spot could influence Bichette’s and vice versa (especially with Boston reportedly eyeing Bichette as a Bregman backup plan). Also worth considering: Will Bregman be comfortable with his free agency stretching into spring training the way it did last year? Perhaps a speedier decision this time around could jump-start the rest of the market for free-agent hitters.

8. Can any team do enough to dethrone the Dodgers as preseason favorites?

The champs went into the winter with one clear goal — improving their bullpen — and swiftly did so with the signing of star closer Edwin Díaz to a three-year, $69 million deal. While some uncertainty remains at second base and in the outfield, which could open the door for another impact addition, it’s possible that Díaz represents the Dodgers’ biggest move of the offseason, with the team having boldly addressed its most glaring weakness with the best option available. If that’s the case and president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman and Co. are essentially finished shopping this winter, is there anything another contender can do between now and Opening Day to put themselves on equal footing with L.A. from a pure roster talent standpoint?

FanGraphs’ Depth Charts currently project the Dodgers’ roster with a roughly 5-WAR cushion over the next three best teams (Yankees, Blue Jays, Braves), with another group of contenders (Mariners, Mets, Phillies, Red Sox) just below them. This is an imperfect measure of roster quality, but it’s a solid approximation of how much talent each club possesses, and it paints an accurate picture of Los Angeles’ superior position relative to the field. 

The Blue Jays remain the most alluring candidates to climb into the Dodgers’ tier, having just pushed L.A. to seven games in the World Series and exhibited a willingness to spend boldly this winter, with more additions seemingly on the way. If the Yankees decide to change course and add aggressively, they too could rise closer to what the Dodgers have on paper. Boston and Philadelphia might each be one or two impact additions away from a championship-caliber roster. Maybe the Mets start spending wildly to dig themselves out of the hole they’ve dug and emerge with a World Series-worthy roster and a payroll larger than the Dodgers’. 

The point is, there’s plenty of time left this offseason for other contending clubs to upgrade their rosters and become compelling challengers to the defending champs. But the Dodgers have set the bar quite high and might not be finished adding themselves. 

In addition to welcoming the new year, Jan. 1 serves as a de facto midpoint of baseball’s offseason. It has been just about two months since the Dodgers hoisted the Commissioner’s Trophy as back-to-back champs, and we’re roughly two months away from spring training games commencing in Arizona and Florida. 

By some measures, this halfway mark is reflected in the amount of transactional activity that has occurred thus far, as 27 of our Top 50 free agents have signed new deals. But a closer look at our rankings makes it clear that there’s a substantial amount of important business left to be settled: Nine of our top 15 free agents are still unsigned, including three of the top four. 

While it’s hardly uncommon for some top free agents to linger on the market into February, this plethora of unsigned stars — plus a handful of high-profile trade candidates and several contending teams that have yet to make any major moves — sets the stage for January to be an especially compelling month across MLB. There is plenty to be resolved before pitchers and catchers report to camp in mid-February. 

Here are the eight biggest questions that will be answered in the coming weeks.

1. Who will sign Kyle Tucker?

After consecutive offseasons with generational talents inking gargantuan, historic contracts in Shohei Ohtani and Juan Soto, Tucker entered this winter as a relatively underwhelming Best Free Agent Available, with a fraction of the hype and fanfare often associated with the player carrying that label. But even if Tucker was unlikely to produce a frenzied bidding war like recent premier free agents, it’s interesting that we’ve made it to 2026 with barely any buzz about his potential suitors, outside of a reported visit to the Blue Jays’ spring training facility in Dunedin (conveniently located near Tucker’s hometown, Tampa). This lack of clarity is a stark contrast to Ohtani and Soto, whose deals were signed and sealed by mid-December, and it makes Tucker’s free agency top of mind as we begin the new year. 

While the Jays loom as a logical landing spot for Tucker, that seems to have as much to do with their being one of the few teams willing to dole out the kind of megadeal he’s seeking as it does with their roster being the cleanest fit for his services. Toronto is clearly ready to spend, having made the biggest splash of this offseason so far by signing right-hander Dylan Cease to a seven-year, $210 million deal. It’s unclear if the team’s interest in Tucker supersedes its goal of retaining homegrown star Bo Bichette, another top free agent still unsigned. 

Look beyond Toronto, and it’s not clear which other clubs are eager to splurge on Tucker as a franchise anchor. The Cubs don’t seem especially keen on a reunion, even after paying a hefty price to acquire Tucker from Houston a year ago. The Dodgers have room in their outfield but limited appetite to hand out a deal of significant length. The Phillies’ outfield doesn’t project particularly favorably, but they seem content with their addition of Adolis García and are ready to give top prospect Justin Crawford some playing time. The Giants have a clear opening in right field but reportedly aren’t eager to spend at the top of the market. 

For as cloudy as the outlook is now, a suitor will eventually emerge. And no matter which team ultimately signs him, Tucker’s deal promises to impact the rest of the market.

2. When will the starting pitching market shake loose?

Besides Toronto moving quickly and aggressively to sign Cease, we’ve yet to see many starting pitchers find homes in new rotations, either in free agency or via trade. The largest non-Cease deals for starters so far have involved pitchers staying put, including Michael King re-signing with San Diego, Brandon Woodruff and Shota Imanaga accepting qualifying offers, and Merrill Kelly returning to Arizona after a cameo with Texas. We’ve also seen some pitchers return from Asian leagues to sign major-league deals, including Cody Ponce (Blue Jays), Anthony Kay (White Sox), Ryan Weiss (Astros) and Foster Griffin (Nationals), plus a few lower-profile arms changing threads in Adrian Houser (Giants), Dustin May (Cardinals) and Tyler Mahle (Giants).

But several intriguing rotation options remain unsigned, including 10 of the 18 starting pitchers on our Top 50. That group is headlined by left-handers Framber Valdez and Ranger Suárez, and it includes accomplished right-handers Zac Gallen and Lucas Giolito, who could certainly strengthen a starting staff. Giolito recently spoke to how quiet the market has been thus far in his experience, but based on the number of notable arms unsigned, it seems he’s not alone. One domino that could help kickstart some movement is Japanese right-hander Tatsuya Imai, whose deadline to sign with an MLB club is 5 p.m. ET Friday. His landing spot should help clarify which clubs are still looking to add starting pitching in the weeks to come.

The trade market for starting pitchers has been a bit more active, with Sonny Gray (Red Sox),Shane Baz (Orioles), Johan Oviedo (Red Sox), Mike Burrows (Astros) and Grayson Rodriguez (Angels) dealt already this winter. That said, there are several more impact arms who could be on the move before Opening Day. Miami’s pair of veteran right-handers, Sandy Alcantara and Edward Cabrera, have been in trade rumors for more than a year. Perhaps the new front office in Washington will deal MacKenzie Gore for a hefty prospect package.Maybe Milwaukee will trade Freddy Peralta with a year left on his contract, as it did with Corbin Burnes. And speaking of expiring contracts, there’s spicy speculation surrounding Tigers superace Tarik Skubal and whether Detroit would have the stomach to trade the best pitcher on the planet before he reaches free agency next winter.

Whether or not we see a seismic swap involving Skubal or some lesser exchanges league-wide, once free-agent starters start to come off the board, don’t be surprised to see a series of trades to address rotations still in need of reinforcements.

3. When will the New York Yankees wake up and do something?

It has been a stunningly quiet offseason in the Bronx, with New York’s lone external addition being Rule 5 pick Cade Winquest from St. Louis. While Winquest’s selection is notable in that New York hadn’t taken a player in the Rule 5 Draft since 2011, that’s not exactly the genre of transaction Yankees fans are used to buzzing about this time of year. Trent Grisham accepting the qualifying offer set an odd tone for the Yankees’ offseason plans, as many expected him to decline the one-year deal in search of a longer pact elsewhere; instead, a sizable salary was committed to Grisham. A trio of unsexy re-signings soon followed, with the returns of utilityman Amed Rosario and pitchers Ryan Yarbrough and Paul Blackburn.

The Yankees’ top offseason priority is yet another in-house name, with free-agent outfielder Cody Bellingerreportedly New York’s top target after a fantastic first season in the Bronx. But even if the Yankees re-sign Bellinger and run it back with what was baseball’s most productive outfield in 2025, alongside Grisham and MVP Aaron Judge, is that really all New York is going to do coming off an ALDS exit at the hands of Toronto? And if Bellinger lands elsewhere, how will general manager Brian Cashman pivot in an effort to meaningfully improve the roster? 

How the Yankees proceed from here will hinge on team owner Hal Steinbrenner’s willingness to push the payroll to new heights. Any amount of penny-pinching at this point is likely to result in Bellinger departing and/or a roster that looks almost entirely unchanged from 2025. And it’s difficult to imagine that being received particularly well among Yankees fans.

4. Do the Orioles have another big move in them?

While the Yankees have stayed on the hot stove sideline, the rest of the AL East has been plenty active. The Blue Jays have spent more than any other club in free agency ($277 million) and are looking to add more. The Rays have made a couple of major trades to shake up their roster and bolster their farm system. The Red Sox haven’t signed any free agents but have added three big-league pieces via trades for starters Sonny Gray and Johan Oviedo and a big bat in Willson Contreras. 

And perhaps no team in baseball has been busier than the Baltimore Orioles, who handed out the largest contract to a free-agent hitter thus far (Pete Alonso, $155M) and parted with the largest prospect package so far in a trade to land Shane Baz from Tampa Bay. Add the acquisition of slugger Taylor Ward to co-star with Alonso in the heart of the order, the signing of closer Ryan Helsley and the return of right-hander Zach Eflin, and it’s clear that Baltimore is focused on retooling the roster to ensure better results after a miserably disappointing 2025. 

Yet for all the Orioles have done this offseason, it’s hard not to wonder if there’s more to come before the club opens camp in Sarasota. Adding an impact starting pitcher was a stated priority for president of baseball operations Mike Elias at the outset of the offseason, and while Baz could become that caliber of pitcher with the right tweaks, he doesn’t quite fit the bill of what Baltimore seemed to be searching for. As mentioned above, several starters with gaudier résumés than Baz’s remain available on the free-agent and trade markets, and the O’s remain an ideal landing spot for one of those arms. It has already been an exciting winter in Birdland, but reeling in one more top-tier rotation arm would be the perfect finishing touch for Elias and Co.

5. Will Ketel Marte be traded?

If the D-backs decide to trade Ketel Marte — comfortably the best second baseman in baseball — that would be a humongous transaction that could fundamentally alter his new club’s outlook entering 2026 (not to mention what would be an enormous return for the Snakes). The latest reports out of Arizona suggest that a resolution one way or another is expected soon, with general manager Mike Hazen preferring to move on with the rest of the club’s offseason rather than stay stuck in the haze of uncertainty. That’s an understandable sentiment considering the state of Arizona’s pitching staff: considerably undermanned relative to the team’s stout position-player group and in need of an addition. If upgrades aren’t going to come via a Marte trade, it’s important for the Snakes to add on the mound via other avenues sooner rather than later.

In the event that Marte stays put, who will be the best hitter traded this offseason? Willson Contreras, Taylor Ward, Brandon Lowe, Jeff McNeil, Brandon Nimmo and Marcus Semien represent the most significant position players dealt so far, but there’s bound to be a few more major bats traded before Opening Day. Beyond Marte, St. Louis’ Brendan Donovan represents an exciting alternative for teams seeking a second baseman and could net a major return.

The Cardinals are also still trying to trade Nolan Arenado, just as they were a year ago. It would make plenty of sense for the Red Sox to trade from their surplus of outfielders, making Jarren Duran and Wilyer Abreu names to watch. Chicago center fielder Luis Robert Jr. remains an enticing target for his upside, but the White Sox seem to be keeping his price quite high. Of course, the most fun trades are the ones that none of us sees coming, so maybe there will be another high-profile hitter on the move in the coming weeks.

Bruno Rouby/Yahoo Sports

6. How will the Mets fill out their new-look roster?

Having dramatically purged four of the franchise’s most prominent players from the past decade — Pete Alonso, Edwin Díaz, Brandon Nimmo and Jeff McNeil, all through varying means of baseball breakups — the Mets are seemingly in the early stages of reshaping their roster. So far, those players’ exits are carrying notably more weight than the additions the team has made. 

Now, it’s worth noting that the Mets have added four major leaguers projected to play key roles in Devin Williams, Luke Weaver, Marcus Semien and Jorge Polanco — very few other teams have added as much to their major-league roster this offseason. But because such a staggering amount of talent has departed from Queens, it feels like the Mets haven’t taken a meaningful step forward yet.

Given how much of a disaster 2025 was, it’s understandable, if even logical, for president of baseball operations David Stearns to want to shake up the roster in a serious way around franchise anchors Francisco Lindor and Juan Soto. But now it’s on Stearns and team owner Steve Cohen to chart an appropriately aggressive path forward to ensure that a club with a payroll in excess of $300 million doesn’t miss the postseason in consecutive years. There’s still impact talent available in free agency and on the trade market for the Mets to improve their squad and reenergize an emotionally spent fan base.

7. Will Alex Bregman and Bo Bichette find new homes?

Beyond Kyle Tucker in the top spot, Bregman and Bichette are the top free-agent hitters who remain unsigned into the new year. But unlike Tucker, who is widely expected to leave the Cubs after his one year on the North Side, these two infielders entered the winter under the assumption that their incumbent clubs would be aggressive in trying to retain them, considering their outsized importance to their respective franchises.

Bichette has spent nearly a decade in the Blue Jays’ organization and has been vocal about his desire to stay in Toronto and chase a championship with his close friend Vladimir Guerrero Jr., a dream that was nearly realized in 2025 thanks to the co-stars’ epic efforts against the Dodgers in the World Series. Seeing Bichette in a different uniform would be as jarring as any free-agent move this winter (though Pete Alonso rocking an Orioles jersey is the clear leader in that clubhouse for now). With far more teams needing second basemen than shortstops this offseason, Bichette has reportedly expressed a willingness to move to second, where his defense profiles better long-term. If that’s relevant in the event he stays in Toronto or the Jays revert to the alignment that had Bichette at short remains to be seen, but Bichette’s bat matters most, whether atop Toronto’s lineup or strengthening another contender’s offense.

Bregman’s sample of impact in Boston is far shorter than Bichette’s in Toronto, but he was exactly what Boston was looking for both on and off the field after signing as a free agent a year ago and could fill a crucial role in the infield if he remains. Bregman reportedly has several suitors, including the D-backs, Cubs and, intriguingly, the Blue Jays, which means his landing spot could influence Bichette’s and vice versa (especially with Boston reportedly eyeing Bichette as a Bregman backup plan). Also worth considering: Will Bregman be comfortable with his free agency stretching into spring training the way it did last year? Perhaps a speedier decision this time around could jump-start the rest of the market for free-agent hitters.

8. Can any team do enough to dethrone the Dodgers as preseason favorites?

The champs went into the winter with one clear goal — improving their bullpen — and swiftly did so with the signing of star closer Edwin Díaz to a three-year, $69 million deal. While some uncertainty remains at second base and in the outfield, which could open the door for another impact addition, it’s possible that Díaz represents the Dodgers’ biggest move of the offseason, with the team having boldly addressed its most glaring weakness with the best option available. If that’s the case and president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman and Co. are essentially finished shopping this winter, is there anything another contender can do between now and Opening Day to put themselves on equal footing with L.A. from a pure roster talent standpoint?

FanGraphs’ Depth Charts currently project the Dodgers’ roster with a roughly 5-WAR cushion over the next three best teams (Yankees, Blue Jays, Braves), with another group of contenders (Mariners, Mets, Phillies, Red Sox) just below them. This is an imperfect measure of roster quality, but it’s a solid approximation of how much talent each club possesses, and it paints an accurate picture of Los Angeles’ superior position relative to the field. 

The Blue Jays remain the most alluring candidates to climb into the Dodgers’ tier, having just pushed L.A. to seven games in the World Series and exhibited a willingness to spend boldly this winter, with more additions seemingly on the way. If the Yankees decide to change course and add aggressively, they too could rise closer to what the Dodgers have on paper. Boston and Philadelphia might each be one or two impact additions away from a championship-caliber roster. Maybe the Mets start spending wildly to dig themselves out of the hole they’ve dug and emerge with a World Series-worthy roster and a payroll larger than the Dodgers’. 

The point is, there’s plenty of time left this offseason for other contending clubs to upgrade their rosters and become compelling challengers to the defending champs. But the Dodgers have set the bar quite high and might not be finished adding themselves. 

The new year is here and, as we keep pushing in the regular season, now we get to the fun part. We know about teams’ identities, what they do well and what they struggle with. A new year brings a new opportunity, a new set of goals, a chance to reset. Let’s take a look around the league to see what should happen more (or less) for all 30 teams going forward.

Jump to: ATL • BOS • BKN • CHA • CHI • CLE • DAL • DEN • DET • GS • HOU • IND • LAC • LAL • MEM • MIA • MIL • MIN • NO • NY • OKC • ORL • PHI • PHX • POR • SAC • SA • TOR • UTA • WAS

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Atlanta Hawks

Show anything that resembles multiple efforts on defense. It would be more fun to highlight the career years from Jalen Johnson, Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Onyeka Okongwu if the Hawks were defending. Heading into the last day of 2025, the Hawks have lost 11 of their past 13 games with opponents averaging 127.2 points a night and shooting 50.4% from the field. The Hawks may want to keep the ball in front on closeouts and avoid overhelping; take the stairs instead of the elevator.

Boston Celtics

Practice mindfulness and live in the present. By that I mean Boston should stick with the process that’s pushed it to third in the East until the wheels fall off. Coach Joe Mazzulla has this team ready to compete on a nightly basis. The Celtics lead the NBA with the fewest turnovers per game (12.3), while 66.3% of their field-goal attempts and 64.4% of their points have come from Jaylen Brown, Derrick White, Payton Pritchard and Anfernee Simons. Everyone else knows his role, takes the opportunity and works to contribute. Resist the urge to bring Jayson Tatum back, please.

Brooklyn Nets

Invest in yourself and what you have been doing. Seven of the Nets’ 10 wins this season have come this month. In December, they have held teams to 104.6 PPG, which is about five points better than the second-ranked Clippers (and the Celtics and Thunder) in that span. So, continue to build, give the effort defensively, allow room for the young guys to grow and enjoy the bucket-getting of Michael Porter Jr. and Cam Thomas.

Charlotte Hornets

Prepare for a shift or change. This is the year where you hand the keys to Kon Knueppel, leave no stone unturned to know what Brandon Miller is, and play Moussa Diabaté and Sion James to fill the gaps. You won’t have every answer, but it will be a letdown if you don’t find clarity.

Chicago Bulls

It’s time for a journey of self-discovery. We’ve gotten used to the Bulls having a level of star power but just competing for the play-in, only for them to pivot, play with more youth, pace and tempo and … compete for the play-in. This team has two five-game win streaks this season and two losing streaks of five or more, and I would just like to see what the next step is outside of fun offensive basketball.

Cleveland Cavaliers

Change the pattern at the start of the year. Whether it has been their defense lacking consistency, the offense generally being a whole lot of Donovan Mitchell and 3s, or injuries breaking their rhythm, this has not been where the Cavs thought they would be entering 2026. With Darius Garland and Evan Mobley both being healthy again, maybe the Cavs can look within and remember who they are as a team. If the defense gets back to a certain level, and if the offense is able to get defenses in rotation to generate good looks, a run can be had.

Dallas Mavericks

Understand the future is now. It’s Cooper Flagg’s team. The rookie’s growth when it comes to aggression and patience is what the franchise needs to embrace for the rest of the season.

Denver Nuggets

Build off the momentum of early success. The Nuggets enter 2026 with four of their five starters injured. But early on they displayed a high level of versatility on defense and a unique connection on offense; don’t let go of the rope. Nikola Jokić has been incredible, Jamal Murray has stayed consistent, and Aaron Gordon’s usage has added a different layer. The Nuggets must build and maintain until they get everyone back.

Detroit Pistons

Show gratitude for the work you’ve put in and a belief that you have enough. No one expected the Pistons to be on top of the Eastern Conference to start 2026, so I’d resist the urge to swing for the fences and instead see how far this roster can take you. Cade Cunningham is one of two players in the NBA averaging 26-plus points, 9-plus assists and 6-plus rebounds (the other is Nikola Jokić), Jalen Duren has emerged as a consistent force, and the defense has elevated Detroit toward the top. Many a team has proven there is no problem with knowing exactly what you may need before you alter what you have.

Golden State Warriors

It’s time to shake up this sitcom. The Warriors started 4-1 and have been fighting .500 ever since. They shouldn’t be 4-6 when Stephen Curry scores 30 or more points. So, buy in to the little things on both ends of the floor. Offensively, find a way to execute to avoid clutch games. On defense, build a consistency to give yourself some wiggle room. Set Jonathan Kuminga free and move forward.

Houston Rockets

Fix the clutch-time issues and lock in your lineups. Kevin Durant’s shot-making has been way too good and important for this team to fall short. The two-man game with Alperen Şengün has paid dividends throughout the season. Understand the attention those two will receive and, whether it’s Tari Eason or Reed Sheppard, continue to make teams pay. Learn the lesson now and let it pay off down the line.

Indiana Pacers

Pascal Siakam, stay hydrated and get a journal for reflection. Everyone else, get well soon. Siakam has had an unbelievable year, but everyone misses Pacers basketball. I’m not sure the slippage on both ends is a proper reflection of who this team is at its core.

LA Clippers

Remember your identity. Kawhi Leonard has sent a reminder of exactly what he does, and James Harden remains one of four players in the NBA averaging at least 25 points, 8 assists and 5 rebounds. You need defense around that to give yourself wiggle room offensively. The efforts of Kris Dunn, Nic Batum and a resurgent Brook Lopez have reopened a door. If that doesn’t move you, just feed Kawhi whatever he has been eating for the last two weeks.

Los Angeles Lakers

Commit to habits that give you the best chance to win long term. We have seen brilliance from Luka Dončić, consistent growth from Austin Reaves and a return of LeBron James. At the end of the day, though, this team has limitations on the defensive end that it needs to take off the table. When the Lakers work to keep the ball in front, show early help and make multiple efforts defensively, they give themselves a chance. When they don’t, the margin for error is slim to none. If they want to make the most of their early start, they have to recommit to the little things.

Memphis Grizzlies

Find an in-between on offense. The Grizzlies have found success within their offensive system, but must mix in what Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr. bring to the table. The movement and flow has worked for pockets of the system; now add the drives of Morant, add the versatility of Jackson and make it all come together.

Miami Heat

Continue to mix in pick-and-roll. The Heat lead the NBA in drives per game (61.9), with their ability to space the floor and continuously flow into drive-and-kick being the base of their offense. Adding more pick-and-roll for Norman Powell is a way to get defenses to react when they are able to keep the ball in front; keep Bam Adebayo involved; and flow into what’s kept pressure on defenses early on this season. It’s helpful to have pick-and-roll in your back pocket when size and length are keeping the drives in front.

Milwaukee Bucks

Try their best to keep Giannis Antetokounmpo from leaving. It’s the start of a new year, full of new possibilities and good vibes that fill the room like a humidifier. If the Bucks can keep Antetokounmpo from leaving, whatever other resolution I’d put here would be the equivalent of committing to going to the gym and hitting snooze on the alarm clock on Day 2.

Minnesota Timberwolves

It’s Anthony Edwards’ time. There will be some bad losses, there will be some great wins, and the offensive improvements will be felt once the defense hits a consistent level. But Edwards is on a mission. Trust and believe in that.

New Orleans Pelicans

Entrust Derik Queen and Jeremiah Fears with minutes to grow. Fears always looks to get downhill, and Queen’s playmaking and driving ability open up movement. That should allow Trey Murphy and Herb Jones room to attack and get in the paint. Throw in the sudden nature of Zion Williamson attacking space, and you have a recipe to be an annoying team in the second half of the season.

New York Knicks

Keep a balanced diet offensively. The commitment to pace, tempo and flow has empowered the Knicks’ roster. Seven Knicks players average 10 or more points per game. In December, the team had five or more players score in double-digits in 10 out of 13 games. The Knicks are 14-2 on the season when they have 28 or more assists and 9-0 this season when they have 30 or more assists. Jalen Brunson has led the dance, but consistent production throughout the team has allowed the Knicks to thrive.

Oklahoma City Thunder

Keep doing everything you’ve been doing (and do it better against the Spurs). This is a disruptive defense and a decisive offense led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the league’s Most Valuable Player.

Orlando Magic

Keep the faith offensively. The Magic went from averaging 120.9 points a night in November to 112.9 in December and, according to NBA.com, went from having the seventh-best offensive rating in November (119.5) to 26th in December (111.2). Desmond Bane’s drives and playmaking have been key, the aggression from Jalen Suggs and Anthony Black have helped elevate them, and the tempo opens room for quicker decisions from Franz Wagner and Paolo Banchero. If they can get back to the decisive, out-of-the-mud offense, things could pay off in the playoffs with their defensive potential.

Philadelphia 76ers

Commit to putting together the puzzle pieces. The Sixers have one losing streak of three games or more and one winning streak of more than three games. Tyrese Maxey has been a constant force on offense with his scoring and speed. A commitment to drive-and-kick and movement has opened a window for VJ Edgecombe to consistently contribute. It also gives wiggle room as Paul George returns to form. Live for the nights where you see Joel Embiid looking to drive the basketball and protect the rim. If they can put it all together, they may not be a team people want to see in the playoffs.

Phoenix Suns

Stay low-key, stay under the radar. The Suns have quietly become a team no one enjoys facing. The defensive effort stands on its own, and Devin Booker has been moved around the court to attack in different areas. Grayson Allen and Royce O’Neale have been key cogs of the lineup, and Dillon Brooks is no longer just staring you down in warmups; he’s staring you down with 3s and pull-up jumpers. The task was to be annoying; keep doing it.

Portland Trail Blazers

Get the next steps from Shaedon Sharpe. A defensive base has been established in Portland, but the Blazers must ensure that their promising 22-year-old guard puts together the athleticism, scoring and playmaking with patience.

Sacramento Kings

“The things which hurt, instruct.” Read all the inspirational quotes you can, hope you can get as much development from Keegan Murray as possible and don’t notice the DNPs surrounding Keon Ellis and Malik Monk at various points.

San Antonio Spurs

Nail down the blend of your talent and swing for the fences. Why not? Victor Wembanyama has been on a mission all year long. In his absence, they found 48 minutes of guard play from De’Aaron Fox, Stephon Castle and Dylan Harper. Get the most out of that, and keep pressure on offenses knowing Wemby can protect on the back end. The Spurs have defeated the Thunder three times; harness that and push forward.

Toronto Raptors

Keep your balance offensively. RJ Barrett’s return from injury should slot everyone into their roles and get the Raptors back toward the level they displayed early. They can have a stronger starting lineup and better balance as they stagger. Those lineups should allow them to unlock Scottie Barnes as a roller on top of his ability to drive the basketball. Brandon Ingram’s shotmaking has continuously drawn attention from defenses and balanced the Raptors’ attack when they need to make plays.

Utah Jazz

Get back to winning games at home. In my 38 years on this earth, the Jazz have had a losing record at home only three times. Trust the offense and do the thing that will keep Will Hardy from cussing you out on social media.

Washington Wizards

Get buckets. Never stop getting buckets. Never ever stop getting buckets.

The new year is here and, as we keep pushing in the regular season, now we get to the fun part. We know about teams’ identities, what they do well and what they struggle with. A new year brings a new opportunity, a new set of goals, a chance to reset. Let’s take a look around the league to see what should happen more (or less) for all 30 teams going forward.

Jump to: ATL • BOS • BKN • CHA • CHI • CLE • DAL • DEN • DET • GS • HOU • IND • LAC • LAL • MEM • MIA • MIL • MIN • NO • NY • OKC • ORL • PHI • PHX • POR • SAC • SA • TOR • UTA • WAS

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Atlanta Hawks

Show anything that resembles multiple efforts on defense. It would be more fun to highlight the career years from Jalen Johnson, Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Onyeka Okongwu if the Hawks were defending. Heading into the last day of 2025, the Hawks have lost 11 of their past 13 games with opponents averaging 127.2 points a night and shooting 50.4% from the field. The Hawks may want to keep the ball in front on closeouts and avoid overhelping; take the stairs instead of the elevator.

Boston Celtics

Practice mindfulness and live in the present. By that I mean Boston should stick with the process that’s pushed it to third in the East until the wheels fall off. Coach Joe Mazzulla has this team ready to compete on a nightly basis. The Celtics lead the NBA with the fewest turnovers per game (12.3), while 66.3% of their field-goal attempts and 64.4% of their points have come from Jaylen Brown, Derrick White, Payton Pritchard and Anfernee Simons. Everyone else knows his role, takes the opportunity and works to contribute. Resist the urge to bring Jayson Tatum back, please.

Brooklyn Nets

Invest in yourself and what you have been doing. Seven of the Nets’ 10 wins this season have come this month. In December, they have held teams to 104.6 PPG, which is about five points better than the second-ranked Clippers (and the Celtics and Thunder) in that span. So, continue to build, give the effort defensively, allow room for the young guys to grow and enjoy the bucket-getting of Michael Porter Jr. and Cam Thomas.

Charlotte Hornets

Prepare for a shift or change. This is the year where you hand the keys to Kon Knueppel, leave no stone unturned to know what Brandon Miller is, and play Moussa Diabaté and Sion James to fill the gaps. You won’t have every answer, but it will be a letdown if you don’t find clarity.

Chicago Bulls

It’s time for a journey of self-discovery. We’ve gotten used to the Bulls having a level of star power but just competing for the play-in, only for them to pivot, play with more youth, pace and tempo and … compete for the play-in. This team has two five-game win streaks this season and two losing streaks of five or more, and I would just like to see what the next step is outside of fun offensive basketball.

Cleveland Cavaliers

Change the pattern at the start of the year. Whether it has been their defense lacking consistency, the offense generally being a whole lot of Donovan Mitchell and 3s, or injuries breaking their rhythm, this has not been where the Cavs thought they would be entering 2026. With Darius Garland and Evan Mobley both being healthy again, maybe the Cavs can look within and remember who they are as a team. If the defense gets back to a certain level, and if the offense is able to get defenses in rotation to generate good looks, a run can be had.

Dallas Mavericks

Understand the future is now. It’s Cooper Flagg’s team. The rookie’s growth when it comes to aggression and patience is what the franchise needs to embrace for the rest of the season.

Denver Nuggets

Build off the momentum of early success. The Nuggets enter 2026 with four of their five starters injured. But early on they displayed a high level of versatility on defense and a unique connection on offense; don’t let go of the rope. Nikola Jokić has been incredible, Jamal Murray has stayed consistent, and Aaron Gordon’s usage has added a different layer. The Nuggets must build and maintain until they get everyone back.

Detroit Pistons

Show gratitude for the work you’ve put in and a belief that you have enough. No one expected the Pistons to be on top of the Eastern Conference to start 2026, so I’d resist the urge to swing for the fences and instead see how far this roster can take you. Cade Cunningham is one of two players in the NBA averaging 26-plus points, 9-plus assists and 6-plus rebounds (the other is Nikola Jokić), Jalen Duren has emerged as a consistent force, and the defense has elevated Detroit toward the top. Many a team has proven there is no problem with knowing exactly what you may need before you alter what you have.

Golden State Warriors

It’s time to shake up this sitcom. The Warriors started 4-1 and have been fighting .500 ever since. They shouldn’t be 4-6 when Stephen Curry scores 30 or more points. So, buy in to the little things on both ends of the floor. Offensively, find a way to execute to avoid clutch games. On defense, build a consistency to give yourself some wiggle room. Set Jonathan Kuminga free and move forward.

Houston Rockets

Fix the clutch-time issues and lock in your lineups. Kevin Durant’s shot-making has been way too good and important for this team to fall short. The two-man game with Alperen Şengün has paid dividends throughout the season. Understand the attention those two will receive and, whether it’s Tari Eason or Reed Sheppard, continue to make teams pay. Learn the lesson now and let it pay off down the line.

Indiana Pacers

Pascal Siakam, stay hydrated and get a journal for reflection. Everyone else, get well soon. Siakam has had an unbelievable year, but everyone misses Pacers basketball. I’m not sure the slippage on both ends is a proper reflection of who this team is at its core.

LA Clippers

Remember your identity. Kawhi Leonard has sent a reminder of exactly what he does, and James Harden remains one of four players in the NBA averaging at least 25 points, 8 assists and 5 rebounds. You need defense around that to give yourself wiggle room offensively. The efforts of Kris Dunn, Nic Batum and a resurgent Brook Lopez have reopened a door. If that doesn’t move you, just feed Kawhi whatever he has been eating for the last two weeks.

Los Angeles Lakers

Commit to habits that give you the best chance to win long term. We have seen brilliance from Luka Dončić, consistent growth from Austin Reaves and a return of LeBron James. At the end of the day, though, this team has limitations on the defensive end that it needs to take off the table. When the Lakers work to keep the ball in front, show early help and make multiple efforts defensively, they give themselves a chance. When they don’t, the margin for error is slim to none. If they want to make the most of their early start, they have to recommit to the little things.

Memphis Grizzlies

Find an in-between on offense. The Grizzlies have found success within their offensive system, but must mix in what Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr. bring to the table. The movement and flow has worked for pockets of the system; now add the drives of Morant, add the versatility of Jackson and make it all come together.

Miami Heat

Continue to mix in pick-and-roll. The Heat lead the NBA in drives per game (61.9), with their ability to space the floor and continuously flow into drive-and-kick being the base of their offense. Adding more pick-and-roll for Norman Powell is a way to get defenses to react when they are able to keep the ball in front; keep Bam Adebayo involved; and flow into what’s kept pressure on defenses early on this season. It’s helpful to have pick-and-roll in your back pocket when size and length are keeping the drives in front.

Milwaukee Bucks

Try their best to keep Giannis Antetokounmpo from leaving. It’s the start of a new year, full of new possibilities and good vibes that fill the room like a humidifier. If the Bucks can keep Antetokounmpo from leaving, whatever other resolution I’d put here would be the equivalent of committing to going to the gym and hitting snooze on the alarm clock on Day 2.

Minnesota Timberwolves

It’s Anthony Edwards’ time. There will be some bad losses, there will be some great wins, and the offensive improvements will be felt once the defense hits a consistent level. But Edwards is on a mission. Trust and believe in that.

New Orleans Pelicans

Entrust Derik Queen and Jeremiah Fears with minutes to grow. Fears always looks to get downhill, and Queen’s playmaking and driving ability open up movement. That should allow Trey Murphy and Herb Jones room to attack and get in the paint. Throw in the sudden nature of Zion Williamson attacking space, and you have a recipe to be an annoying team in the second half of the season.

New York Knicks

Keep a balanced diet offensively. The commitment to pace, tempo and flow has empowered the Knicks’ roster. Seven Knicks players average 10 or more points per game. In December, the team had five or more players score in double-digits in 10 out of 13 games. The Knicks are 14-2 on the season when they have 28 or more assists and 9-0 this season when they have 30 or more assists. Jalen Brunson has led the dance, but consistent production throughout the team has allowed the Knicks to thrive.

Oklahoma City Thunder

Keep doing everything you’ve been doing (and do it better against the Spurs). This is a disruptive defense and a decisive offense led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the league’s Most Valuable Player.

Orlando Magic

Keep the faith offensively. The Magic went from averaging 120.9 points a night in November to 112.9 in December and, according to NBA.com, went from having the seventh-best offensive rating in November (119.5) to 26th in December (111.2). Desmond Bane’s drives and playmaking have been key, the aggression from Jalen Suggs and Anthony Black have helped elevate them, and the tempo opens room for quicker decisions from Franz Wagner and Paolo Banchero. If they can get back to the decisive, out-of-the-mud offense, things could pay off in the playoffs with their defensive potential.

Philadelphia 76ers

Commit to putting together the puzzle pieces. The Sixers have one losing streak of three games or more and one winning streak of more than three games. Tyrese Maxey has been a constant force on offense with his scoring and speed. A commitment to drive-and-kick and movement has opened a window for VJ Edgecombe to consistently contribute. It also gives wiggle room as Paul George returns to form. Live for the nights where you see Joel Embiid looking to drive the basketball and protect the rim. If they can put it all together, they may not be a team people want to see in the playoffs.

Phoenix Suns

Stay low-key, stay under the radar. The Suns have quietly become a team no one enjoys facing. The defensive effort stands on its own, and Devin Booker has been moved around the court to attack in different areas. Grayson Allen and Royce O’Neale have been key cogs of the lineup, and Dillon Brooks is no longer just staring you down in warmups; he’s staring you down with 3s and pull-up jumpers. The task was to be annoying; keep doing it.

Portland Trail Blazers

Get the next steps from Shaedon Sharpe. A defensive base has been established in Portland, but the Blazers must ensure that their promising 22-year-old guard puts together the athleticism, scoring and playmaking with patience.

Sacramento Kings

“The things which hurt, instruct.” Read all the inspirational quotes you can, hope you can get as much development from Keegan Murray as possible and don’t notice the DNPs surrounding Keon Ellis and Malik Monk at various points.

San Antonio Spurs

Nail down the blend of your talent and swing for the fences. Why not? Victor Wembanyama has been on a mission all year long. In his absence, they found 48 minutes of guard play from De’Aaron Fox, Stephon Castle and Dylan Harper. Get the most out of that, and keep pressure on offenses knowing Wemby can protect on the back end. The Spurs have defeated the Thunder three times; harness that and push forward.

Toronto Raptors

Keep your balance offensively. RJ Barrett’s return from injury should slot everyone into their roles and get the Raptors back toward the level they displayed early. They can have a stronger starting lineup and better balance as they stagger. Those lineups should allow them to unlock Scottie Barnes as a roller on top of his ability to drive the basketball. Brandon Ingram’s shotmaking has continuously drawn attention from defenses and balanced the Raptors’ attack when they need to make plays.

Utah Jazz

Get back to winning games at home. In my 38 years on this earth, the Jazz have had a losing record at home only three times. Trust the offense and do the thing that will keep Will Hardy from cussing you out on social media.

Washington Wizards

Get buckets. Never stop getting buckets. Never ever stop getting buckets.

There’s something about the turn of the year that makes us all pause and think about how to make positive changes in our lives. It could be the calendar flip, but it translates to fantasy basketball, too. Or perhaps I’m just in way too many leagues. Either way, seeing “Week 11” in your fantasy basketball league and realizing, wait — we’re nearly halfway through this thing can be shocking. —

The New Year brings reflection with some sense of urgency. And after assessing my squads across multiple leagues, I’ve found a resolution worth committing to: being more active in the trade market.

Trade smarter, not harder

If your fantasy team is stuck in neutral or sinking toward the bottom of the standings, the waiver wire alone won’t save you. It’s time to think bigger.

Assess the field. Which teams are overloaded in assists but weak in big-man stats like boards or blocks? Where do you have leverage? Roster imbalance across the league is inevitable — use it to your advantage.

And don’t guess. It’s not perfect, but utilize Yahoo’s trade market under the research tab to help formulate some trade ideas. The Yahoo Fantasy Trade Market provides a real-time snapshot of trade values and top movers. It’s a scouting report for deal-making, and it helps you gauge what it might take to pull off that swing trade. You have to sift through some noise, but it’s a decent baseline to get going.

Trading is strategy (and fun)

There’s always that balance with trades — figuring out the right time to move on from a player who’s been playing well, or whether it’s worth taking a shot on someone who’s underperforming. Selling high can feel uncomfortable, but sometimes it’s what sets your team up for the long haul. And buying low? It could change your season, or not work out at all. 

That’s just part of the game and timing is everything. Shooters shoot!

Just don’t be that manager sending B.S. offers. No one wants to open a trade proposal full of bench guys for their best players. Keep it fair and reasonable. We’re all grown, we’re all busy. Respect people’s time and if you want to deal, make a competitive offer. Show the other manager you understand their needs, too.  

Remember, it’s a negotiation, not a heist. The back-and-forth should be part of the fun – not an instant dismissal.

Midseason moves matter

The season is about 40% complete. The contenders are separating from the pretenders and we’re approaching the moment where every move counts. Got off to a slow start? There’s still time to fix it. Made a bad draft pick? Trade out of that business. This is the part of the season where you can still reshape your roster for a playoff push.

If you’re sitting eighth or ninth in your league — or even lower — one or two savvy trades could flip the script.

If you’re on top? Stay proactive. If you’ve built a comfortable margin, start thinking about how the playoff schedule will look. Depth, balance and planning ahead win championships.

Resolution Recap

This year, I’m resolving to trade more — and trade better. Use your resources. Know your leverage. Don’t be afraid to take risks. Oh, and have fun. Now go make a move!

The Lakers started the day by singing “Happy Birthday” to LeBron James as the superstar forward turned 41 on Tuesday. They ended by singing another familiar, but more somber tune.

The Lakers got blown out again Tuesday, letting a close game devolve into a 128-106 loss to the Detroit Pistons. James scored 17 points with four assists and five turnovers while the Lakers (20-11) lost by 20 points for the sixth time this season. They are tied for the third-most 20-point losses in the league, yet somehow are still clinging to fifth place in the Western Conference standings.

“The intent and the, like, effort was there for the most part tonight,” coach JJ Redick said. “… The turnovers and the fast-break points, they kill you.”

Here are three takeaways from the loss:

Read more:Lakers still searching for their identity after late implosion vs. Pistons

Detroit executes its plan 

The scouting report was clear. The Pistons (25-8) were second in the league in points in the paint. They were third in points off turnovers and third in turnovers forced.

The Lakers played directly into Detroit’s hands.

Detroit scored 74 points in the paint, the most given up by the Lakers all season, and capitalized on 21 Lakers turnovers for 30 points. Entering the game, the Pistons’ 58.1 points in the paint per game were only behind Oklahoma City’s league-leading 58.2.

“We’ve got to definitely match their physicality,” said Luka Doncic, who led the Lakers with 30 points and 11 assists, but had eight turnovers, which is tied for his second-most in a game this season. “That’s the whole point. We got to match how they play.”

Last week, the Lakers faced Phoenix and Houston, two teams with similar styles to Detroit. The Suns averaged 59 paint points in their two wins over the Lakers in December compared to 44 in the Lakers’ Dec. 14 win. The Rockets poured in 68 paint points on Christmas Day.

The Pistons made more shots in the paint (37) than the Lakers attempted (34) and kept their shooting percentage sky-high when three-pointers started to fall. Detroit, which had been shooting 34.7% from three this season, made 11 of 24 (45.8%) from beyond the arc Tuesday.

“We had a game plan,” James said as the Lakers allowed a season-high 63.2% shooting from the field by Detroit. “We understand that they’re probably No. 1 in points in the paint in the NBA. They get a lot of their points off fast breaks and in the paint. So we knew we’d try to make them miss from the outside and they made some tonight and that’s OK.”

Marcus Sasser made four of six from three, all in the second half, to finish with 19 points off the bench. Cade Cunningham starred for the Pistons with 27 points and 11 assists.

Jaxson Hayes’ return sparks bench

As the Lakers’ revolving door of injuries continued to turn, Jaxson Hayes returned to the lineup Tuesday while forward Rui Hachimura was sidelined. After missing two games because of an ankle injury, Hayes came off the bench for 13 points with two rebounds, two assists and one steal, giving the team a jolt of energy behind starting center Deandre Ayton.

Ayton finished with 10 points but only two rebounds, which equaled his fewest for a full game this season.

Read more:Lakers newsletter: It’s the Luka and LeBron show again

Ayton commended Hayes earlier this season, calling the high-flying Hayes “the best big man I’ve played alongside when it comes to holding your own.” Ayton pointed out how Hayes thrives when he’s throwing down thunderous dunks that amp up the crowd or making second-effort plays that magnify the athletic 7-footer’s true talents. Ayton’s strengths lie in his work in the pocket, but their complementary skill sets have been critical for the Lakers frontcourt.

“Both those guys, throughout the season, when there has been two on the ball with Luka, have done a really good job of making pocket decisions, and making the right play, whether that’s to the corner, the slot, cutter from the corner,” Redick said before the game. “… Both those guys have been really good for us.”

The Lakers got Hayes back, but Hachimura will be out for at least one week after he missed Tuesday’s game with left calf soreness. Jake LaRavia started in his place and had nine points with four rebounds and four steals.

Lakers could use a new year reset 

The Lakers can’t wait to turn the calendar on this month. They went 5-7 during December, endured their only losing streak of the season and got exposed by potential playoff teams such as San Antonio, Phoenix and Houston.

After decisive losses to other Western Conference contenders, the Lakers provided hope against the Pistons by keeping pace with the No. 1 team in the East for three quarters. The Lakers fought back from a 14-point second-quarter deficit to tie the score midway through the third.

Then they scored only eight points in the first eight minutes of the fourth quarter and emptied the bench down 26 with 4:09 left.

“I think we played good basketball for three quarters, physical basketball,” Doncic said. “We just kind of let go of the rope.”

Read more:Lakers takeaways: Nick Smith Jr. shines in win over Kings with Austin Reaves sidelined

The Lakers begin 2026 with home games against the Memphis Grizzlies on Friday and Sunday. Still without Austin Reaves (calf) for a month, the Lakers have eight of their next nine games against teams with losing records. The Lakers are 13-3 against teams below .500.

But even some seemingly lopsided matchups have gone awry for the Lakers. They lost to the Clippers on Dec. 20 in a game that ended with four starters on the bench because of injuries.

The Lakers’ defensive rating of 122.4 points allowed per 100 possessions is 29th in the NBA during December.

“We just got to dig deep down and everyone has got to bring effort every time, all the time,” Hayes said, “and that’s all we have to care about is defense.”

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.