Now we're not into NBA 2K23 yet, but that's partly because I'm still playing 2k22 current gen. Also, I tend to buy these games when they have a sale, which is usually before the season starts, at the trade deadline, and during the playoffs, which is usually when the games go on sale.
Therefore, unless there is a model I am interested in, I tend to get even-year games for current games. For all I know, a new next-gen mode for the next NBA era may appear in the current generation of 2k24. I don't mind waiting.
That being said, I tend to focus on my career and my NBA because in both modes I can achieve what I want from the game and the way it is played. My career is about that story and making a player fit the team I choose and the type of skills the team needs at the time. However, my goal is to be an SF/SG defensive player that can pull the strings and fit in with most teams.
I will probably buy 2K23 MT after I get into the game so I can get my favorite player cards at the start of the game. And finish building and upgrading players quickly afterward.