With preseason video games already underway, the 2026-27 NBA season is just a few weeks away from tipping off.
How will LeBron James and Jaylen Brown look on the courtroom of their new Philadelphia 76ers uniforms? What is going to Giannis Antetokounmpo’s first season away from Milwaukee appear to be? And the way will the opposite new faces in new locations make their impression this season?
Examine again right here for all the newest buzz, information and reactions from our ESPN NBA insiders, with the newest information on the prime:
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Oct. 13
Boston Celtics’ guard Payton Pritchard has agreed a to a two-year, $44.2 million extension with the franchise, sources instructed ESPN’s Shams Charania. Pritchard averaged profession highs in factors (17), assists (5.2) and rebounds (3.9) final season.
Oct. 12
Brian is joined by ESPN’s Tim MacMahon on the Dallas Mavericks-Houston Rockets preseason recreation stay from Macao. The duo welcomes in Mavericks’ president Masai Ujiri to debate Cooper Flagg’s potential, Kyrie Irving’s position with Dallas and the challenges of constructing a aggressive roster within the Western Convention. In addition they cowl what it was wish to construct a championship staff in Toronto. ESPN’s Chao Meng then joins the podcast to speak concerning the NBA’s recognition in China, the nation’s sneaker tradition and the fandom round Yang Hansen. Brian and Tim shut the pod with Carlos Boozer returning to inform tales of his time with the Utah Jazz and deal with the present standing of the franchise.
Subjects:
00:20: Assessing the NBA Home and Macao expertise
06:18: Mavs’ President Masai Ujiri joins the present
7:20: Problem constructing Mavs to Western rivalry
12:00: Is Cooper Flagg underrated already?
15:10: What does Kyrie imply to the staff in Dallas?
16:20: What it takes constructing title contenders
19:35: Response to Kawhi Returning to Toronto
24:45: ESPN’s Chao Meng joins the present
25:55: Explaining the NBA’s recognition in China
30:25: What’s the shoe tradition like in China?
32:03: Yang Hansen’s recognition as a Chinese language participant
34:00: NBA legend Carlos Boozer rejoins the present
34:10: What was it like enjoying for Jerry Sloan?
36:40: What’s the present state of the Utah Jazz?
39:15: Thanks to everybody concerned with the World Tour 2026
Oct. 10
The Golden State Warriors and guard Brandin Podziemski have agreed to a five-year, $110 million contract extension, his agent Invoice Duffy instructed ESPN’s Shams Charania. The deal, which is absolutely assured, prevents Podziemski from getting into restricted company subsequent summer season.
Podziemski, 23, is getting into his fourth season after the Warriors chosen him nineteenth general within the 2023 NBA draft.
Oct. 9
Brian is joined by ESPN’s Tim MacMahon stay from Macao to cowl the Houston Rockets and Dallas Mavericks’ Media Day forward of their preseason recreation in China. The fellows are joined by a set of company, together with Rockets’ basic supervisor Rafael Stone, Houston’s Jabari Smith Jr. and the Mavericks’ Naji Marshall.
Plus, NBA legends Shawn Marion and Carlos Boozer be a part of the present to share some recollections from their enjoying careers.
Subjects:
01:46 Rockets GM Rafael Stone joins the present
03:45: How the Rockets method staff constructing
09:20: Rising on the Rockets’ 52 wins final season
13:30: Expectations in a aggressive Western Convention
14:48: Rockets ahead Jabari Smith Jr. joins the present
15:56: Houston’s expectations with Fred VanVleet returning
18:18: Navigating the competitors within the Western Convention
20:15: Mavericks wing Naji Marshall joins the present
21:55: Creating Naji’s floater
25:15: Enjoying alongside Cooper Flagg
28:00: Dusty Could’s affect
28:42: NBA legend Shawn Marion joins the present
31:53: Recollections of the 2011 NBA Finals
35:05: The evolution of position-less basketball
39:48: Why are contract extensions occurring earlier?
44:00: Enjoying with LeBron James in Cleveland
46:35: NBA legend Carlos Boozer joins the present
47:45: Classes for Cameron Boozer
ESPN reporter Vincent Goodwill wrote Friday about why the Detroit Pistons and massive man Jalen Duren — who engaged in a contract stalemate this offseason earlier than Duren acquired a five-year, $200 million contract — wanted one another. In that piece, Goodwill dropped a nugget on different gamers Detroit explored including since its season ended:
The Pistons inquired about buying and selling for Kawhi Leonard and Kevin Durant this offseason, in line with league sources, and have been positioned to supply Austin Reaves an enormous free agent contract if the Los Angeles Lakers opened the door. None of that materialized.
The Pistons had heard Leonard wasn’t serious about coming to Detroit amid the Clippers’ cap-circumvention scandal, per league sources, and the Rockets weren’t keen to interact on Durant regardless of the shut relationship he shares with Cunningham. As for Reaves, as soon as the Lakers blew him away with a max contract supply, he wasn’t going wherever — he’d already turned down being drafted by Detroit below the Troy Weaver period to go the undrafted route and signal with the Lakers a number of years in the past.
Learn the total story right here.
Oct. 8
LeBron to make preseason debut at Nets
ESPN’s Dave McMenamin reported that new Philadelphia 76er LeBron James will make his preseason debut for the franchise on Thursday evening on the Brooklyn Nets.
“The plan is certainly for LeBron James to make his preseason with the Sixers tonight towards the Nets,” McMenamin stated on NBA In the present day.
ESPN reporter Anthony Slater wrote Thursday about Golden State Warriors rookie Yaxel Lendeborg, who has impressed teammates and coaches forward of the season. Here is a quote about Lendeborg from coach Steve Kerr:
“We’re ready now [as opposed to past seasons] the place we will be pondering of improvement. Not only for Yaxel, however our entire group. We’re not within the [championship] dialog. So let’s examine what we will do as a gaggle to type of reestablish what we stand for and the way we function and new beginnings in a number of methods. All of that’s actually thrilling to me. And Yaxel’s an enormous a part of that.”
Learn the total story right here.
Oct. 7
The authorized dispute over the proper to promote the Buss household’s remaining stake within the Los Angeles Lakers continued Wednesday with 5 of the Buss siblings submitting their case towards their sister, Lakers performing governor, Jeanie Buss.
“Jimmy, Johnny, Janie, Joey and Jesse Buss, the 5 of six siblings who voted to promote the Belief’s shares within the Lakers, immediately filed their formal opposition, demonstrating that Jeanie Buss’s petition is legally and factually baseless,” the siblings stated in a press release issued to ESPN.
Hoop Collective: Answering the followers’ greatest questions LIVE from the Philippines
Brian is joined by Filipino basketball legend Jimmy Alapag and ESPN’s Tim MacMahon in Manila, Philippines, to reply the followers’ greatest questions forward of the 2026-27 season. They talk about the most important “what ifs” surrounding LeBron James’ free company, the very best paths to constructing a contender and way more from the offseason.
Subjects:
01:02: Jimmy Alapag joins the Hoop Collective
04:57: Jimmy’s teaching profession with the Kings
18:23: Answering your greatest NBA questions
23:12: What’s an underrated storyline for this upcoming season?
27:32: What to make of the state of the Clippers?
32:08: Will the move of worldwide gamers proceed?
36:39: What the crew misses about Tim Bontemps
42:23: Why could not the Warmth shut a deal for LeBron James?
46:22: The largest “what ifs” of LeBron’s free company
50:20: What’s the finest path to constructing a contender?
55:06: Brian and Tim’s favourite basketball moments
1:06:12: What failed commerce would’ve modified the league?
1:07:19: Methods to report controversial tales
1:09:54: What offseason transfer deserves extra consideration?
Windhorst on the expansion of the NBA world wide: “I feel the move of worldwide gamers into the NBA is even going to develop due to two issues. One, the NBA is increasing to Europe. It is going to occur. I promise you. And a part of the way in which that they are going to get all people to purchase in there may be that they will assure funding in European gamers. That is going to be a part of their gross sales pitch after they get it executed.
“They are going to restrict what number of American gamers will be on there. They are going to increase their rosters as a result of they are going to be enjoying in two totally different leagues, their nationwide league and NBA Europe. And they are going to say, ‘The explanation you need to care about our new groups in London and in Rome and elsewhere, and the present groups, is we’ll develop European gamers.’ And they will Europe for 20 years or extra. They’re investing in it like they did the WNBA. They do not care if it would not do nice or someone kicks rocks on it within the first 12 months, they are going to spend money on it.
“Secondly, worldwide basketball is flourishing.”
Oct. 6
Porzingis damage timetable nonetheless ‘indefinite’
ESPN’s Anthony Slater reported on NBA In the present day that Golden State Warriors’ middle Kristaps Porzingis’ timetable to return from an undisclosed well being problem continues to be indefinite.
The ramifications of the Hukporti damage for Philadelphia
The season ending Achilles damage to Ariel Hukporti has roster ramifications for the 76ers.
Philadelphia is $1.8 million under the primary apron, so they aren’t allowed to signal a participant with their open roster spot till Dec. 4. The 76ers might create monetary flexibility however at the price of Jabari Walker, whose $2.6 million wage is assured for less than $250,000. Walker scored 11 factors and grabbed 11 rebounds of their pre-season opener.
The 76ers do have an open two-way spot and may signal a participant with three years or much less in service.
Past starter Joel Embiid, Philadelphia’s frontcourt depth is Dean Wade, Adem Bona, Dominick Barlow and Walker. — Bobby Marks
An MRI affirm Tuesday that Philadelphia 76ers’ middle Ariel Hukporti sustained a season-ending torn proper Achilles, sources instructed ESPN’s Shams Charania. Hukporti will endure surgical procedure for the damage later immediately.
Doncic, who ‘labored his butt off all summer season,’ lights up Kings
A lighter Luka Doncic scored a straightforward 21 first-half factors within the Los Angeles Lakers’ preseason opener over the Sacramento Kings on Monday evening, needing solely 16 minutes to sharpen up his recreation in a 127-103 blowout in Sacramento.
Doncic was listed at 244 kilos previous to the 2025-26 season. That dipped to 230 kilos getting into coaching camp. The distinction in physique from his heavier days is clear.
“The man labored his butt off all summer season staying in form and really ran this summer season,” coach JJ Redick stated. “He really did like sprints and stuff. Got here into camp in incredible form.”
The Lakers have been with out Austin Reaves and Walker Kessler within the preseason opener. Reaves tweaked his ankle not too long ago, and Kessler jammed a finger on the backboard. Each are listed as day-to-day. With out both, the Lakers nonetheless rolled by means of the Kings. Doncic scored all 21 of his factors in a 73-point Lakers first half, resting whereas the backups completed the job. He made three 3s, 4 pictures within the paint and acquired to the road for 9 free throws.
“For somebody who usually performs a ton of stay basketball [in the summer], he did not do as a lot of that by design,” Redick stated. “We have seen him actually daily in camp incrementally get increasingly more in rhythm.”
Doncic badly strained his hamstring in early April and missed the complete Lakers playoff run whereas rehabbing the damage. He stated he felt “nice” towards the Kings however downplayed any bigger adjustments to his coaching routine.
“I really feel in all probability a little bit extra rested,” Doncic stated. “I did not play [on the Slovenian] nationwide staff.” — Anthony Slater
Hoop Collective: Greatest questions within the NBA’s Southwest Division
Brian is joined by ESPN’s Tim MacMahon and Michael C. Wright to preview the NBA’s Southwest Division, together with the most important questions going through every staff heading into the 2026-27 season. They cowl every staff’s outlook, the most important roster questions and the way the groups stack up towards the remainder of the league. Are the San Antonio Spurs expectations too excessive? What is going to Cooper Flagg accomplish in his sophomore season? And might the Houston Rockets take the following step this season?
Subjects:
02:25: Our 2026-27 Southwest Division preview
02:38: Sky-high expectations for the Spurs
15:00: Windy Storytime: Spurs redemption
19:00: How can Spurs maximize their younger expertise?
29:30: Rockets hoping to take a leap this season
41:15: Cooper Flagg’s improvement in Dallas
52:28: Can issues enhance for the Pelicans?
57:10: Memphis is a really laborious staff to mission
Windhorst on Dylan Harper’s position with the Spurs: “The Spurs internally consider Dylan Harper is their second-best participant. I am not saying Mitch Johnson’s going to return out and say that. He should not come out and say that. That is not a slight on De’Aaron Fox. That is not a slight on Stephon Citadel. Harper is a stud.
“You discuss to different entrance places of work within the league, they are saying the identical factor. This man is I imply, look, he is the No. 2 decide within the draft. In fact he is a stud, and he solely acquired higher because the season went alongside.”
MacMahon on on Kyrie Irving’s expectations in Dallas: “Masai [Ujiri] didn’t need to have any discussions about Kyrie trades this 12 months. What I can inform you proper now’s Kyrie is absolutely on board and enthusiastic about coming again to play with the Mavericks.
“He simply organized this sort of unofficial minicamp that that they had out right here in LA with the seashore yoga in Santa Monica and the runs. He is been hooping all summer season lengthy, appears to be like like himself on Instagram and the folks I do know that or I’ve talked to which were within the gyms with him say, ‘Dude, Kyrie is Kyrie.’
“They anticipate him to return again and be the dude that he was a 12 months and a half in the past when he acquired damage, which he was enjoying at at an All-NBA stage.”
Will the New York Knicks enter opening evening with out getting a deal executed with Karl-Anthony Cities? How laborious ought to Cities push in negotiations? What choices can be out there subsequent summer season?
ESPN NBA insiders Ben Golliver, Zach Kram and Bobby Marks look at each side of the Cities-Knicks contract talks — plus the deal our resident basic supervisor would select.
Oct. 5
Throughout Sunday’s preseason recreation, LA Clippers guard Max Strus suffered a partial tear of the plantar fascia in his proper foot, sources instructed ESPN’s Shams Charania. He will probably be reevaluated in 4 weeks.
New York Knicks middle Karl-Anthony Cities stated Monday that, “It do not look good” with reference to him and the franchise agreeing to a contract extension earlier than the beginning of the season.
“Merely put, I need to do one thing that may preserve the staff collectively and work with the Knicks and in addition values me,” Cities stated. “None of these issues have come near occurring.”
Cities is eligible for a four-year deal value over $276 million.
“It is a rising cloud across the New York Knicks,” ESPN’s Shams Charania stated on NBA In the present day. “Thus far, these sides aren’t shut”
Oct. 2
The Memphis Grizzlies and guard Jordan Hawkins have agreed to half methods by way of waivers, permitting the 2023 lottery decide to discover a new residence in free company, sources instructed ESPN’s Shams Charania.
The transfer comes three weeks after arriving as a part of a four-player commerce with the New Orleans Pelicans for AJ Johnson and Taj Gibson.
Hawkins, 24, averaged 5.1 factors in 51 video games final season and struggled to seek out constant enjoying time in New Orleans’ crowded backcourt rotation. The previous UConn star performed simply 13.6 minutes per recreation, a major lower from the 2024-25 season, when he performed 23.6 minutes per recreation and averaged 10.8 factors per recreation.
Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN’s Tim MacMahon and Anthony Slater to preview the NBA’s Pacific Division, together with the most important questions for the Los Angeles Lakers, Golden State Warriors and the remainder of the division. They talk about the groups’ outlooks, roster questions and the place the groups stack up towards the remainder of the league.
Subjects:
00:20: 2026-27 Pacific Division preview
01:05: Can the Lakers take the following step within the playoffs?
18:45: What’s the finest and worst case for the Warriors?
28:30: The Suns overachieved final season — what now?
35:20: What can we anticipate from the Clippers?
42:40: Assessing the state of the Kings this 12 months
Slater on the Warriors’ choices this season: “I feel we talked about it final time we talked concerning the Warriors, however take into consideration what the Lakers did with LeBron. I do know we simply questioned a number of the offers they signed, however the truth that they may signal all these offers was as a result of LeBron James took all his cash and walked away. So you could possibly let Jimmy [Butler] considerably stroll away.
“The opposite factor is, Jimmy and the Warriors actually are keen on one another and we’ll see what he appears to be like like when he does come again. Clearly Jimmy’s going to need each greenback he can get, however there’s an opportunity Jimmy and Draymond [Green] might take pay cuts subsequent season, proper? The market would possibly demand that they do.
“Jimmy matches rather well with Steph Curry. We have seen that. Draymond is one other participant that you’ll hear a number of noise about within the first week of camp from the Warriors about shifting Draymond’s position and a number of the numbers final 12 months. With Draymond and Steph Curry on the ground collectively, it was nonetheless plus-105 final 12 months, nonetheless a great offensive score,117.7, however the second Steph’s been off the ground, and final 12 months he was off the ground lots, their offense cratered when Draymond was on the ground and was really OK when it was no Draymond and no Steph.
“I’ve had these conversations with Steve [Kerr] and once more I feel you are going to hear it lots publicly of their messaging, they are going to adapt the offense at occasions away from Draymond. They are going to attempt to make him extra of a spot-up shooter at occasions as an alternative of giving him the ball. They’re making an attempt to restrict his turnovers.”
Oct. 1
All-NBA middle Jalen Duren has agreed to a five-year, $200 million absolutely assured contract to return to the Detroit Pistons, his agent instructed ESPN’s Shams Charania. Duren had till 11:59 p.m. ET Thursday to determine on the Pistons’ one-year, $9.6 million qualifying supply.
Mitch Johnson enthusiastic about Billy Donovan’s position with Spurs
San Antonio Spurs coach Mitch Johnson likes what he is seen to date at coaching camp from new lead assistant coach Billy Donovan.
“I do not need to be naive sufficient to assume I will inform you what a 61-year previous Corridor of Fame coach like Billy Donovan and his resume can convey to the desk,” Johnson stated. “I am excited he is right here. He is an amazing particular person, nice character, matches in seamlessly. He is acquired worlds of expertise and he is a particularly laborious employee. He isn’t kicking up his ft and telling tales. He is rolling his sleeves up and getting his fingers soiled. He will assist all of us and possibly me, particularly, a ton this 12 months.”
Donovan joined the employees in July, changing former lead assistant Sean Sweeney, who left San Antonio to take the top teaching job in Orlando. Sweeney ran the Spurs’ protection final season, serving to it enhance from twenty fifth to 3rd within the NBA in defensive score (110.4).
Donovan will not be tasked with taking up Sweeney’s duties, in line with sources, nevertheless. San Antonio introduced in Donovan to lean on his expertise on each ends of the ground, in addition to his huge data of the NBA and school video games.
A member of the Naismith Basketball Corridor of Fame class of 2025, Donovan joined the Spurs after 11 seasons as an NBA coach with the Chicago Bulls and Oklahoma Metropolis Thunder, after capturing two school basketball nationwide titles in 2006 and 2007 with the Florida Gators. — Michael C. Wright
Shead agrees to three-year extension in Toronto
Guard Jamal Shead has agreed to a three-year, $24 million extension with the Toronto Raptors, sources instructed ESPN’s Shams Charania. Shead averaged 6.6 factors and 5.6 assists per recreation final season.
Sept. 30
Nuggets add Nembhard on two-way deal
Guard Ryan Nembhard has agreed to a two-way contract with the Denver Nuggets, sources instructed ESPN’s Shams Charania. Nembhard, 23, performed 60 video games (27 begins) for the Dallas Mavericks in 2025-26 after signing as an undrafted free agent. He was traded to the Atlanta Hawks then to the Charlotte Hornets this offseason earlier than being waived.
Sept. 29
ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that the NBA is presently reviewing finalist bids for a brand new enlargement staff in Las Vegas. The worth vary is presently speculated at $12-13 billion with a brand new area factored into the associated fee.
The three ultimate teams are Nancy Walton Laurie and Invoice Laurie; Steve Apostolopoulos and Marc Lasry; Invoice Foley and Jerry Colangelo, sources instructed ESPN.
Will KAT take a pay minimize in subsequent Knicks deal?
On “NBA In the present day,” ESPN’s Malika Andrews detailed Karl-Anthony Cities’ mindset towards contract negotiations with the defending champion New York Knicks.
“Cities, from what I’ve been instructed, is keen — equally to what Jalen Brunson did [but the] numbers aren’t the identical — to take a pay minimize,” Andrews stated. “However the pay minimize that the Knicks are asking him to take, he views as unreasonable.”
Cities, 30, is eligible to signal a four-year, $276 million extension by means of June 30.
Embiid “full participant” in first Sixers’ observe
Joel Embiid was a “full participant right through” for the Philadelphia 76ers first observe of coaching camp, Sixers coach Nick Nurse stated Tuesday.
“He seemed nice,” Nurse stated of Embiid. “Very, superb information from the standpoint of the place it has been the final couple years, final couple summers main into immediately. … It is nice to see.”
After being named the league MVP in 2023, the 32-year-old middle has missed 150 video games during the last three seasons due to numerous accidents.
He additionally sat out 4 of the Sixers’ 11 playoff video games within the spring due to appendicitis, proper hip soreness and a proper ankle sprain.
The one Sixers participant who didn’t take part in Tuesday’s observe in line with a staff spokesperson was backup large man Adem Bona, who’s coping with a sprained left foot.
Anfernee Simons, who signed a two-year, $12.3 million contract to hitch Philadelphia in July, stated Embiid’s presence within the gymnasium was already notable main as much as the beginning of camp.
“All people’s been impressed round right here about how he is are available in and labored,” Simons stated. “Joel goes to be Joel. He will be a dominant participant all the time. We simply need to proceed for him to be himself, as properly, and I feel all people’s going to have the ability to work round that.”
Regardless of the accidents, the 10-year veteran nonetheless averaged 26.9 factors, 7.7 rebounds, 3.9 assists and 1.2 blocks per recreation final season.
Embiid’s inclusion solely added to what a number of Sixers gamers described as an “thrilling” opening day with LeBron James and Jaylen Brown finishing their first official observe with the franchise.
“With any staff, we acquired to begin someplace, after which we acquired to get higher and higher, and simply preserve making an attempt to succeed in our ceiling, proper?” Nurse stated. “That occurs day-to-day. Can we stand up tomorrow, like, 98% as excited as we did immediately? It is going to be laborious to get as excited as all of us have been immediately, proper?
“However we have to come again, and we have to preserve climbing that mountain. That is a day by day course of. I simply need them to succeed in their potential. In the event that they do, nice issues are going to occur.” — Dave McMenamin
Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN reporters from across the league to examine in on Monday’s Media Days. Tim MacMahon, Dave McMenamin, Vince Goodwill, Jamal Collier, Anthony Slater and Michael C. Wright all hop on the podcast to debate the most important storylines all through the NBA forward of coaching camp.
Subjects:
01:08: 76ers Media Day reactions
06:55: How LeBron is assimilating in Philadelphia
15:00: How will the 76ers deploy their expertise this 12 months?
18:45: Vibes exceedingly excessive for the Lakers
32:25: Bronny’s quotes about LeBron leaving
35:20: Windy Storytime: Bronny’s title origins
40:20: Thrilling summer season coming to an in depth for the Knicks
41:15: Main contract negotiations ongoing with NY
55:10: Assessing vibes with new items in Minnesota
1:08:40: Unhealthy information continues for the Clippers
1:24:15: Evaluating Kawhi’s match with the Raptors
1:30:20: Not a number of love within the air for Pistons
1:44:30: Breaking down state of the Warriors
2:00:25: Thunder coping with departure of key teammates
2:16:13: Fascinating quotes from Spurs about their beginning 5
Goodwill on the newest between the Knicks and Karl-Anthony Cities: “It wasn’t a lot what he stated, like this full-throated protection of himself, however he stated, ‘I want to get my contract executed.’
“He stated, ‘I want to keep in New York for the remainder of my profession.’ After which he type of ended it and due to the way in which the Knicks operated, it wasn’t such as you had area for a follow-up.
“After which another person, I feel Ian Begley requested him, ‘Are you OK with enjoying this out by means of the season or do you need to desk contract talks?’ and he mainly stated, ‘All people’s going to be a little bit uncomfortable round right here.'”
High NBA media day headlines
Sept. 28
Bronny on LeBron James’ Lakers exit: ‘He is acquired his personal path’
When LeBron James selected to depart the Los Angeles Lakers in free company over the summer season, he consulted his household on the choice to signal with the Philadelphia 76ers. However when it got here to his son/teammate Bronny, a lot was apparently left unsaid.
“We’re males of little or no phrases in terms of speaking about enterprise and what we’ll do and the way we really feel about one another. So it wasn’t actually a lot [discussion] to be sincere with you,” Bronny James stated Monday at Lakers media day.
“He is acquired his personal path and I acquired my very own. He is aware of that I need to make a reputation for myself and I need to proceed my profession and continue to grow as a participant. And he is aware of that I need to concentrate on that. So he determined to try this.”
LeBron and Bronny have routinely been in distinctive conditions in league historical past, whether or not it was opening evening two years in the past, when the daddy and son entered the sport collectively, or final 12 months within the playoffs, the place they mixed to ship a 10-0 run throughout a victory over the Houston Rockets. Navigating a fancy free company by which the daddy leaves and the son stays is one other one for the books.
Tatum ‘snug’ main new-look Celtics post-Brown commerce
Jayson Tatum’s one fixed throughout his improvement right into a star with the Boston Celtics was having Jaylen Brown as a teammate.
That partnership ended this offseason when the Celtics’ entrance workplace determined to commerce Brown — the 2024 NBA Finals MVP — to the Philadelphia 76ers in what was largely a cost-cutting transfer that broke up the duo most chargeable for main Boston to the 2024 NBA championship.
“The enterprise of the NBA comes and performs an element sooner or later. And I’ve seen it in my virtually 10 years on this league,” Tatum stated throughout Celtics media day on Monday. “For me it is extra so being grateful for what we completed and what he means for this metropolis and to this group. Simply the ups and downs in our profession that we have been in a position to develop and be taught from and made us the gamers that we’re immediately. So actually simply being grateful for these 9 years.”
Suns proprietor Ishbia says mortgage firm woes will not damage staff
It is well-known at this level that billionaire Mat Ishbia’s mortgage firm has had a tough monetary stretch.
The proprietor of the Phoenix Suns stated Monday that may have “zero” impact on his spending habits in terms of basketball. The truth is, the 46-year-old stated he is engaged on buying 14% extra of the staff, bringing his whole to roughly 80%.
Ishbia’s firm — United Wholesale Mortgage — suffered a reported $450 million internet loss within the second quarter this 12 months, calling into query if the sizable dip would have an effect on his basketball enterprise. The outspoken Ishbia was adamant that nothing would change for the NBA franchise in terms of spending on gamers or the fan expertise.
Williamson not the place he needs to be
New Orleans Pelicans ahead Zion Williamson saved his reply transient when requested how he would summarize his first seven years as an NBA participant.
“I am not the place I need to be,” stated Williamson, whom the Pelicans drafted with the No. 1 pick of Duke in 2019. “I am not the place I must be.”
Butler signifies he’s ‘forward’ in his knee rehab
Nearing the eight-month mark since his proper ACL surgical procedure, Jimmy Butler III is hesitant to place a particular goal date on his eventual NBA return, however he did specific optimism prematurely of Golden State Warriors coaching camp.
“I promise you I am coming again, and it will be — I feel it will be, like, actual eye-popping for everyone how I am nonetheless going to be good,” Butler stated. “Most likely nicer, truthfully.”
Butler has solely not too long ago superior to working, and he will probably be restricted to gentle on-court particular person work when the staff begins observe in Hawaii on Tuesday afternoon.
It will likely be a number of weeks earlier than Butler is predicted to advance to a extra rigorous stage of his rehab, and the staff’s lead medical decision-maker, Rick Celebrini, is understood for his cautiousness within the later phases of the rehab course of.
A January or February return will be thought of on the optimistic aspect for Butler, who turned 37 earlier this month. However Butler did say that the strengthening assessments on the knee point out he’s forward of schedule.
“My numbers are staggering,” Butler stated. “They’re off the charts. I am forward, so they are saying. So, I simply know that each one the work that I have been doing, whether or not it’s at residence, in L.A., in Europe, in South America, wherever the case could also be, I have been doing all the proper issues. So, I’m assured that every time I come again, I will be greater than prepared, I will be greater than wholesome and I will be a greater all-around participant than I used to be every time I went down.” — Anthony Slater
Pistons eye “higher model” of Cunningham
Detroit Pistons coach J.B. Bickerstaff has held many offseason conversations with All-NBA guard Cade Cunningham about seizing greatness and the mandatory steps towards bettering after final 12 months’s playoff run that stretched to Recreation 7 of the Jap Convention semifinals.
Bickerstaff has assured “a greater model” Cunningham this season, which may very well be a scary sight after he averaged 23.9 factors, 9.9 assists, 5.5 rebounds and 1.4 steals in 33.9 minutes throughout 2025-26. However Cunningham additionally led the East in turnovers per recreation after ending with the second most in 2024-25.
“I haven’t got to problem Cade, and that is why he’s who he’s,” Bickerstaff stated. “As a result of he is pulling. He isn’t being pushed.”
Cunningham confirmed up in a contemporary pair of Nike S.T. Cost “Detroit Powerful” sneakers in Pistons colours. He may also obtain his personal signature Nike shoe, which is predicted to debut in the course of the second half of the season.
“I am grateful to be in these footwear. I am grateful to have the chance to symbolize my household on this means,” Cunningham stated. “Symbolize the place I come from, however then to symbolize the town of Detroit.
“In a metropolis like this, it is a blessing. I am grateful for it, I do not take it without any consideration and I am making an attempt to take advantage of out of it.” — Eric Woodyard
Hornets waive former No. 8 decide Dillingham
The Charlotte Hornets are waiving guard Rob Dillingham, sources instructed ESPN’s Shams Charania. Dillingham was traded from the Chicago Bulls on Saturday for Buddy Hield and money. The Hornets created a $9.6 million commerce exception with the transfer.
Dillingham, 21, appeared in 30 video games for the Bulls final season, averaging 9.6 factors and a couple of.8 assists.
SGA on probability at historic third straight MVP
At Oklahoma Metropolis Thunder media day, guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander mentioned the potential of successful a 3rd straight NBA MVP award and whether or not that is one thing he ponders going into this season.
“No totally different than some other 12 months: Attempt to be the very best participant I will be, attempt to implement the issues I simply labored on,” Gilgeous-Alexander stated.
“The choice for MVP is actually 82 video games away. I am not going to win the award within the first week of the season. … That type of recipe for me previously has type of labored, and I have been lucky to win two in a row.
“We must be laser centered on ourselves. We have to take the teachings from that [Western Conference finals] collection, for certain, and we did. However it’s actually not one thing that we overcorrect for, as a result of you find yourself chasing your shadow, and it prevents you from being your finest as you progress ahead.”
ESPN’s Summer time Forecast gave Gilgeous-Alexander the fourth-best probability on the 2027 MVP, behind Victor Wembanyama, Nikola Jokic and Luka Doncic. No participant has gained three consecutive MVPs since Larry Hen in 1984, 1985 and 1986. — Baxter Holmes
Doncic talks LeBron exit, Lakers “championship” ceiling
Chatting with ESPN’s Brian Windhorst throughout Los Angeles Lakers media day, guard Luka Doncic detailed his response to LeBron James leaving for the Philadelphia 76ers this previous summer season and why he thinks a profitable 2026-27 features a Lakers run to the title:
“It was type of unhappy. Enjoying with LeBron was wonderful. There’s a number of issues I discovered from him. … Everyone knows who LeBron James is.”
“When you do not assume we will win a championship, you should not be right here.”
-@lukadoncic to @WindhorstESPN on the Lakers’ title expectations this season 🏆 pic.twitter.com/0z5BQcledi
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) September 28, 2026
Shams: Duren’s relationship with Pistons “has fractures”
The most recent on Jalen Duren and the Pistons as deadline nears on his restricted free company resolution: pic.twitter.com/AclYIJn6sw
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) September 28, 2026
Simmons “did not contact a ball for a 12 months”
Throughout Sacramento Kings media day, guard Ben Simmons laid out the explanations he selected the Kings and why he is excited for the 2026-27 season.
“The expectations are low. I really feel like that is been one thing on me too, so we will relate in that means,” Simmons instructed reporters. “I feel we now have a chip on our shoulder.”
Simmons final performed in 2024-25, showing in 51 video games for the Brooklyn Nets and LA Clippers. The three-time All-Star stated the time away gave him the prospect to concentrate on “getting my physique proper and my thoughts proper.”
Pistons GM hasn’t spoken with Duren all summer season
Jalen Duren and the Detroit Pistons have a call to make because the clock ticks nearer to Oct. 1 — the deadline to signal a one-year, $9.6 million qualifying supply.
For Duren, he can settle for the five-year, $200 million contract that has been provided by Detroit or he can develop into the primary participant named All-NBA or All-Star to signal the qualifying supply. If he chooses the latter, Duren will maintain veto energy on any commerce this season and be an unrestricted free agent subsequent summer season.
For the Pistons, weighing the chance of getting an All-NBA participant on a one-year contract and, extra importantly, the probability he’ll depart subsequent summer season as a free agent is essential.
There are eight projected groups which have vital cap area to signal Duren to a four-year, $189 million max contract.
“I can not management the various things that he does or his group does,” Pistons president of basketball operations Trajan Langdon stated at media day. “For me, it is management what we will and letting him know he’s an enormous a part of what we do.”
Langdon additionally stated he hasn’t spoken with Duren all summer season throughout Pistons media day. — Bobby Marks
Mitchell: LeBron to Cavs made sense “for lots of causes”
At Cavaliers media day, Donovan Mitchell stated that in his thoughts, he thought LeBron James would return to Cleveland as a result of “for lots of causes it made sense.”
“I did not assume Philly. I believed if he did not come right here, it might be Golden State,” Mitchell stated.
After being swept within the Jap Convention finals by the eventual champion New York Knicks then lacking out on James in free company, Cleveland saved its core intact. The Cavs signed Mitchell to a four-year, $273 million most extension and re-signed James Harden to a three-year, $97 million contract. Cleveland did make one main addition by buying Peyton Watson from the Denver Nuggets in a multiteam commerce then signing the restricted free agent to a four-year, $88 million deal.
Talking for the primary time since their extensions, Mitchell and Harden each stated their approaches to their new offers — Mitchell signing as quickly as he was eligible with Harden opting out to offer Cleveland extra flexibility to make strikes — mirrored a team-first mindset.
“That is one thing that I need to do, and I need to win a championship,” Harden stated. “So, what does that appear to be? Making the staff higher, making the staff entire to the place we give ourselves an opportunity. By the way in which, you’ll be able to have the very best proficient staff, which I have been on earlier than, and nonetheless not win.
“We waited, waited, waited till the entrance workplace referred to as me, made certain that we acquired all the pieces that we will get, after which we signed. We acquired an extended technique to go, however I like the route and steps that we’re taking right here as a unit from prime to backside.” — Daniel Oyefusi
MacMahon: Thunder adjusting to roster adjustments
The departures of three championship-winning teammates would not but really feel like actuality for Thunder celebrity Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who kidded that he nonetheless anticipated Luguentz Dort, Isaiah Joe and Aaron Wiggins to indicate up for Oklahoma Metropolis’s staff image Monday afternoon.
“It is the enterprise of the NBA, proper?” Gilgeous-Alexander stated, referring to the collection of financially motivated trades. “I do not assume anyone has performed with all 12 guys their entire profession. It sucks a little bit bit.
“My thoughts by no means even went to what we have been going to be like on the courtroom. It was extra just like the brotherhood.”
As fellow OKC guard Jalen Williams added, “It is the weirdest factor ever.” — Tim MacMahon
Clippers announce Ingram has partially torn Achilles
The LA Clippers introduced they discovered {a partially} torn Achilles tendon in Brandon Ingram’s foot after his current heel surgical procedure. He’ll miss the beginning of the 2026-27 season.
Jokic: “I am gonna signal subsequent 12 months”
Denver Nuggets middle Nikola Jokic reiterated his dedication to the franchise at Monday’s media day.
“I am gonna signal subsequent 12 months,” Jokic stated. “If they need me.”
Curry stated knee is able to go for the season
Golden State Warriors celebrity guard Stephen Curry addressed the media Monday in providing constructive updates on his injured knee.
“Knee’s feeling nice. Able to go. No points,” Curry stated. “I really feel lots stronger and understanding of what I am coping with.”
Curry did acknowledge a “administration ingredient” however stated there are presently no restrictions.
Nuggets assured in Jokic’s future with franchise
Members of the Denver Nuggets’ entrance workplace, basic supervisor Jon Wallace and government vp of basketball Ben Tenzer addressed the media on Monday and answered questions concerning Nikola Jokic’s future with the franchise. The three-time MVP did not signal an extension this offseason.
“We really feel very snug with the relation and belief there,” Tenzer stated. “We now have no issues.”
New Philadelphia 76er LeBron James stated his resolution got here down to 5 groups this offseason and that he envisioned going to the New York Knicks earlier than they gained the 2026 title.
“I had visions of enjoying in [Madison Square] Backyard and ending my profession within the Backyard,” James instructed ESPN on Monday in the course of the 76ers’ media day. “Among the finest locations I’ve ever performed.
“I feel it is the No. 1 area on the earth, so far as for a basketball participant. However after they beat San Antonio, I used to be like, ‘Hey, I can not.’ I could not do it.”
James and the 76ers will play the Knicks on the Backyard on opening evening, Oct. 20.
No replace on Gary Trent Jr. investigation
Milwaukee Bucks governor Wes Edens didn’t present an replace on the league investigation into Gary Trent Jr.’s contract.
“I haven’t got any replace,” Edens stated. “We’re working with the league and absolutely cooperating with them. However I haven’t got any perception past that.”
The NBA is trying into a possible cap-circumvention violation by the Bucks round Trent’s deal this offseason.
Cronin: Blazers have “perception” in Ja Morant
Portland Path Blazers’ basic supervisor Joe Cronin addressed why the franchise determined to commerce for Ja Morant this offseason throughout Portland’s media day on Monday.
“Simply straight perception in Ja,” Cronin stated. “Our view of Ja as nonetheless a really high-level participant.
“I am certain there will probably be questions on match, however we’re very centered on expertise.”
Cronin additionally stated veteran guard Jrue Vacation might play some minutes on the wing for Portland this season, whereas including that Vacation and veteran guard Damian Lillard may have a constructive affect on Morant.
Kerr: Rookie Lendeborg going to “play a ton”
Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr stated throughout Monday’s media day that he expects rookie Yaxel Lendeborg to “play a ton” this season.
“He is clearly going to play a ton,” Kerr stated. “He offers us the dimensions and the flexibility that we’d like.
“Whether or not he is a starter or coming off the bench, that will probably be decided the following couple of weeks.”
Lendeborg was the No. 11 decide within the 2026 NBA draft and averaged 15.1 factors per recreation at Michigan final season.
Embiid: ‘Extraordinarily excited’ about this 12 months’s staff
Philadelphia 76ers middle Joel Embiid stated Monday that he feels just like the staff lastly has the right combination of gamers, after an offseason by which the franchise traded for Jaylen Brown and signed LeBron James to hitch the younger guard tandem of VJ Edgecombe and Tyrese Maxey.
“It is laborious to win whenever you get a gaggle of men collectively for one 12 months, two years, perhaps,” he stated. “I am extraordinarily enthusiastic about this staff as a result of we now have the right combination of veteran management and youthful guys. We would have some ups and downs, however we’re gonna get there.”
Wembanyama addresses final 12 months’s Finals loss
After main by double digits in every of the 5 video games in final season’s NBA Finals, San Antonio Spurs middle Victor Wembanyama stated his recollections of it should gas the staff this season.
“I could not think about a greater motivation,” he stated.
Harper addresses position for coming season
After offseason chatter about his position, San Antonio Spurs guard Dylan Harper stated he’d observe the coaches’ lead this season.
“Everybody has a aggressive edge to them. However the greatest factor for me is no matter I can do, identical to final 12 months, to assist the staff win,” he stated. “No matter place the coaches assume is finest for me to be in, that is the place I will fortunately go in.”
First have a look at LeBron in a 76ers uniform
New Philadelphia 76ers ahead LeBron James is taking questions from reporters on Monday. Here is what he needed to say when requested about his preliminary impressions of his staff:
“All people is on the identical web page,” James stated. “We’re all talking the identical language.”
Season 24. pic.twitter.com/ntxTXGLb2A
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) September 28, 2026
LeBron addressed his position too, saying he is open to regardless of the staff wants from him to win.
“No matter they want me to do,” he stated. “The luxurious of my recreation is I can do all the pieces. … Actually, I can do all the pieces”
Kawhi: I used to be a distraction, prepared to maneuver ahead
In his first public look with the Toronto Raptors after a controversy-filled summer season, Kawhi Leonard addressed the NBA’s investigation into him and his enterprise dealings.
“I do know why a few of you guys got here. You need to hear concerning the investigation. However in speaking with the NBA and PA, I feel the very best resolution is to maneuver ahead and concentrate on my time being a Toronto Raptor,” he stated. “I already was a distraction for the previous 70 days and wasn’t in a position to meet my teammates or do any of that stuff, minicamp stuff, so, transferring ahead, I simply need to discuss concerning the Toronto Raptors.”
Haliburton: I’m 100% wholesome
Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton stated Monday that he’s wholesome and prepared for the season.
“I’m wholesome. I’m 100%,” he stated. “There will probably be no restrictions. That isn’t information. There isn’t any supply. I’m the supply. I’m able to go for the 12 months.”
Porzingis out indefinitely in blow to Warriors
Golden State Warriors large man Kristaps Porzingis is out indefinitely to open coaching camp with a well being problem, in line with the staff.
In late July, Porzingis agreed to a two-year, $40 million contract with a participant possibility on the second season to return to the Warriors.
Brown: KAT, Hart extension talks will not be a distraction
After reviews surfaced final week that negotiations between the New York Knicks and middle Karl-Anthony Cities had hit a stalemate, coach Mike Brown stated Monday neither Cities’ state of affairs nor Hart’s would linger within the locker room.
“We discuss all the pieces [with the team],” Brown stated. “We do not need to have any elephants within the room.”
“I am not concerned in it. They’re going to determine it out. Management what you’ll be able to management.”
And this is what Cities stated a few potential extension: “I’ve made it identified I need to play right here. Been a fan since I used to be a child. I might wish to get it executed.”
Hornets GM: Brandon Miller to be prepared for coaching camp
After present process offseason surgical procedure on his left shoulder, Hornets wing Brandon Miller must be a full participant in coaching camp and “able to roll” for opening evening, Hornets basic supervisor Jeff Peterson stated Monday.
Miller, 23, is getting into his fourth NBA season after being the No. 2 decide within the 2023 draft.
Detroit Pistons All-Star middle Jalen Duren will not be attending the staff’s media day on Monday or the beginning of coaching camp as his contract standoff continues, sources instructed ESPN’s Shams Charania on Monday.
Duren, a restricted free agent, is declining the staff’s five-year, $200 million absolutely assured supply as each side stay at a stalemate forward of the Thursday deadline on a one-year, $9.6 million qualifying supply, sources stated.
Sept. 26
The Chicago Bulls and Charlotte Hornets agreed to a commerce sending Rob Dillingham to Charlotte for Buddy Hield and money, the groups introduced Saturday.
Sept. 25
What’s subsequent for Curry and the Warriors?
Stephen Curry’s two-year, $116 million extension made him the primary participant in NBA historical past to amass $600 million in profession on-court earnings.
The deal has additionally put the Golden State Warriors in place to have additional spending energy subsequent summer season.
By Curry taking $10 million lower than the utmost allowed, the Warriors mission to have almost $38 million in cap area in 2027. Golden State might enhance its projection to $55 million if middle Kristaps Porzingis is waived within the offseason. Porzingis’ $20 million wage for subsequent season is assured for $3 million.
For Golden State to have ample room, forwards Draymond Inexperienced and Jimmy Butler III would wish to signal elsewhere or at a considerably lesser wage. They are going to be free brokers subsequent summer season.
Each wage projections embody the $17 million free agent maintain of guard Brandin Podziemski. The 2023 first-round decide is eligible till Oct. 19 to increase his contract. — Bobby Marks
The Charlotte Hornets introduced that Kon Knueppel will probably be out for at the least the complete preseason due to a left hamstring damage.
LeBron James stated his longstanding friendship with All-Star Tyrese Maxey and a want to assist Joel Embiid win his first NBA title performed vital roles in his resolution to signal a two-year, $8 million contract with the Philadelphia 76ers in July.
“[Embiid has] executed all the pieces in our league, and the one factor he has not executed is win a championship. And I need to attempt to assist him get that first one,” James stated. “He has a metropolis on his again. He is been ‘The Course of’ for 10 years, 12 years, nevertheless lengthy he is been there. However I feel it is time we even get you deeper into the method. And I hope that I will be, type of, that ultimate little piece that may assist him recover from the hump.”
The Memphis Grizzlies have waived D’Angelo Russell, sources instructed ESPN’s Shams Charania. Russell has made one All-Star staff throughout his profession and was chosen No. 2 within the 2015 NBA draft.
