​In terms of the balance of power in the NBA, it certainly feels like the scale has tipped toward the East. Do you sense a similar shift? Paolo Banchero: It’s true that a lot of big names are making their way to the East, and I’ve long believed that the conference has typically been the stronger one, even if we’ve sometimes been overlooked. This season provided a clear example with the Knicks and their surprising run, which signaled that the East is staying competitive and tough. Across the league, you can feel that perception shifting—many players and teams view the East as open and winnable, which is drawing more free agents to the conference. That openness is exciting, not just for the teams but for the fans and the league as a whole. For us, the upcoming season represents a new opportunity, and the mood in the locker room mirrors that optimism. We understand that last year didn’t go as planned and not everyone will remember the work we put in. A lot of people may count us out, but that only adds fuel to our drive. It’s up to us to prove that we’re an elite team in this league and to capitalize on the chance to contend in the East. We see a real possibility to win the conference, and we’re ready to seize it.