The CBA playoffs have reached the quarterfinals, with Shanghai and Shenzhen already securing spots in the final four. This year’s postseason has been fiercely competitive, highlighting the importance of a strong small foreign player for any team hoping to advance deep into the playoffs. The Liaoning Flying Leopards have entered an early offseason for the first time in years, and many players are still adjusting to the unexpected break.
After a disappointing season, Liaoning is now in full rebuilding mode. The team’s current roster no longer matches the intensity of other top clubs, both in terms of young talent and foreign player quality. Following the retirement of veteran Li Xiaoxu, the only remaining core figure from the old guard is Zhao Jiwei. This offseason promises significant changes, with a new sponsor reportedly on board to provide more financial flexibility for roster upgrades.
Key big man Fu Hao’s max-salary contract has expired this summer. The club had attempted to trade him last year, but a deal never materialized. Now, Fu Hao’s form has declined noticeably over the past two seasons, though he remains a vital presence for Liaoning’s thin frontcourt. The team is actively negotiating a new contract with him, likely on another max-salary deal. In a positive sign, Fu Hao has already started training—the earliest among all Liaoning players this offseason—showing his determination to bounce back.
Liaoning has also confirmed that three promising youngsters will be promoted to the first team next season: 17-year-old center Yu Shanyuan (nicknamed “Little Han Dejun”), 18-year-old guard Liu Ziyang (who impressed at the national youth level), and 19-year-old forward Fu Yuanxu (who has developed rapidly). These three are the cream of the club’s youth system, and the team believes they need higher-level competition to accelerate their growth. Liaoning has also re-signed Zhao Sen to help fill the gap left by Li Xiaoxu’s retirement.
Every team needs a cornerstone, and for Liaoning, that player is Zhao Jiwei. Last summer, Zhao signed a four-year max-salary contract, but his performance this season was hindered by the team’s struggles. Despite this, the club has made it clear they will not let him go—Zhao Jiwei is irreplaceable as both a leader and a facilitator. The front office is now actively searching for a new small foreign player to relieve pressure on Zhao and help develop the younger players.
This season has been the Flying Leopards’ worst in 14 years, hitting rock bottom. But with a rebuild underway, the hope is for a strong rebound next season. Fans continue to stand by the team through these challenging times.