Roundup
Atlanta Hawks
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Giannis steadies the Heat, Duren locks in with Pistons — Central and Southeast roundup
No games on the schedule, but plenty of movement: Giannis Antetokounmpo reassures the Heat, Jalen Duren commits long-term in Detroit and roles begin to take shape across the Central and Southeast.
By the PickALeague Newsroom · Published · Source: PickALeagueSummary written with AI assistance — how we workLire en français →
There were no games in the Central and Southeast divisions, but camp storylines kept unfolding. The Miami Heat remain the only team in this sector with a 1-0 record, reassured by their new superstar’s early form, while Detroit locks in its center of the future and several rotation battles emerge elsewhere.
Miami Heat: Giannis already at the center of everything
For the Miami Heat (1-0), Giannis Antetokounmpo’s first outing in Quebec offered exactly what they needed: a reassuring look at how he can drive their offense. Used as a playmaking hub, he looked comfortable orchestrating actions and creating for teammates, a crucial sign for a group retooling its identity around him. With the rest of the sector still sitting at 0-0, Miami’s combination of an early win and promising on-court chemistry gives it a modest early edge.
Detroit Pistons: Duren embraces long-term commitment
In Detroit, the big news is official: Jalen Duren has signed a five-year, $200 million extension with the Pistons. The deal followed a tense restricted free agency and persistent trade rumors, but Duren has doubled down on his desire to be a “Piston for life.” For a franchise still in the rebuilding phase, securing a young, productive center provides a clear pillar to build around, even as the team remains 0-0 in the standings.
Pacers, Bulls: fitting pieces into the puzzle
The Indiana Pacers (0-0) continue to work Kelly Oubre Jr. into their system. The versatile wing, capable of scoring and defending multiple positions, will need to carve out a defined role in a crowded perimeter group. In Chicago (0-0), Jalen Smith reporting fully healthy from his calf issue is a welcome development for a frontcourt that will need depth over the long haul.
Magic, Hornets and the fight for minutes
With the Orlando Magic (0-0), Jamal Cain is pushing for a rotation spot. His profile as an energetic wing who can impact rebounding, defense and the small effort plays could give him a path if he impresses in camp. In Charlotte (0-0), Dennis Schröder is settling in quickly with the Hornets, bringing veteran stability at point guard to a young core still defining its identity.
Around the league, LeBron James is set to open the 2026-27 season as the NBA’s oldest player while a rookie group led by Cameron Boozer headlines the youngest. Even on a quiet day for the Central and Southeast on the floor, the broader NBA landscape keeps shifting.