NBA News
Latest stories across platforms — updated frequently
Articles are authored by Merlin — the SportsWZRD.
Feb 12, 2026
Utah Jazz's Jaren Jackson Jr Out For Season
Merlin sees the Jazz will be without their prized trade deadline acquisition Jaren Jackson Jr. for the rest of the 2025-26 season as he prepares for surgery on his left knee "to ensure his long-term health after a localized PVNS growth was discovered." Jackson had scored 22 in his Jazz debut and 23 in front of Utah fans and averaged 19.4 points in 48 games. His absence strips Utah of a rim protector and floor spacer they had just acquired. At 18-37, the Jazz are signaling future-first thinking. With a young core led by Lauri Markkanen, Keyonte George and Ace Bailey, Merlin senses Utah will lean into the draft and development rather than chasing a late-season surge. If Jackson returns fully healthy, he becomes a cornerstone or prime trade asset; for now the picture is about preservation and positioning. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Utah landing a top-3 pick in the 2026 draft: 55%.
Phoenix Suns' Dillon Brooks Suspended After 16th Technical
The NBA announced that Phoenix’s Dillon Brooks received an "automatic one-game suspension" after his 16th technical foul of the season, picked up in the second quarter of Wednesday’s loss to Oklahoma City. The penalty will be served after the All-Star break, on Feb. 19 against San Antonio, and it spotlights how Brooks’ repeated miscues can cost the Suns minutes and disrupt rotations at key moments. Merlin sees a familiar portrait: a high-energy defender who flirts with the line between toughness and recklessness. The break gives Phoenix a chance to reset his approach. If Brooks channels that edge into controlled aggression, the Suns get a spark; if not, more absences and friction could follow. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: (Odds of Dillon Brooks getting another technical this season: 45%.)
Feb 12
Knicks Snag Jeremy Sochan After Spurs Cut
Merlin sees the Knicks adding Jeremy Sochan after his surprising release by the Spurs. His agent told ESPN that Sochan will sign with New York once he clears waivers, on a "rest-of-season deal." A former ninth overall pick, Sochan averaged 11.4 points, 6.1 rebounds and 2.8 assists over his first three seasons but had slipped out of San Antonio’s rotation this year. The signing gives New York another versatile defender and pushes the roster to 15 players. Merlin notes this is a chess move for playoff depth, not a headline grab. With an elite starting five, the Knicks need reliable, switchable wings for series play. At 22, Sochan still has upside as a multi-positional defender and can earn minutes in matchups that demand toughness. Expect limited looks early, but real value could arrive in March and April. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds the Knicks reach the Eastern Conference Finals this season: 45%.
Feb 12
James Harden Shrugs Off Loyalty After Cavs Trade
Merlin sees James Harden shrug off notions of player loyalty after his latest move to Cleveland, saying the "loyalty thing is overrated" and that "this is a business." Harden reminded reporters players and front offices must do what is best, noting he has played for six teams and is on his fourth since 2022. His arrival already shows early signs; Cleveland is 2-0 in games he plays and he posted 13 points and 11 assists in the most recent win. Merlin senses both opportunity and risk. Harden’s experience and playmaking can push the Cavaliers deeper in the East, but fit, health, and chemistry will decide if he is a blessing or a short-term patch. The saga is far from over. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Cleveland reaching the Eastern Conference Finals this season: 45%.
Feb 12
Cam Thomas 34 Ignites Milwaukee Bucks
Doc Rivers heaped praise on Cam Thomas after the guard scored 34 points in only his second game with Milwaukee, saying, "I've had Jamal Crawford. I had Lou Williams. And now, I have Cam Thomas." Thomas, waived by Brooklyn after averaging 24.0 last season and signed while Giannis recovers, gave the Bucks a needed scoring jolt as they sit two games out of a play-in spot. Rivers was also named a Hall of Fame finalist and shrugged, "I don't have a lot to say about it." Merlin sees a familiar spark. Thomas has the streaky heat that made Crawford and Williams lethal sixth men, and Rivers has a track record of turning bench scorers into season-changing pieces. A single outburst is a promise, not a guarantee; consistency and Giannis' return will be the true tests of whether the spell lasts. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: (Odds of the Bucks making the play-in this season: 42%.)
Feb 12
NBA Cooper Flagg Kon Knueppel VJ Edgecombe Ignite Rookie Grades
Merlin sees, young fan, the trade deadline cracked open minutes for this rookie class as a third of the league chases ping pong balls. Cooper Flagg is the runaway star, Kon Knueppel is raining threes and VJ Edgecombe, Nolan Traoré, Ryan Nembhard and Will Richard have carved real roles. Tanking teams and cleared rotations have also given late picks like Mohamed Diawara, Kam Jones and Cedric Coward chances to surprise. Merlin whispers that opportunity is the true draft currency now. Players who get steady minutes on rebuilding rosters will develop fastest, while shooters fighting slumps — and bigs needing refinement — face a steeper climb. Expect the Rookie of the Year race to tighten only if someone besides Flagg sustains volume and efficiency. Watch minutes, trades and injuries for the next turns. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Cooper Flagg winning Rookie of the Year this season: 85%.
Feb 12
Anthony Davis Blindsided Again as Mavericks Trade Him to Wizards
Merlin sees Anthony Davis was traded to the Washington Wizards without being told in advance. ESPN’s Tim MacMahon reports Dallas "negotiated with the Wizards without the knowledge" of Davis or his agent Rich Paul. It mirrors the earlier episode when Davis "learned he was being traded ... from a group chat." His limited 20-game season, injuries, and a large contract left him little leverage. Merlin senses Dallas kept talks secret partly to dodge fan fury over a modest return and to prevent Davis from pushing back. Washington inherits a high-risk, high-reward star who may not debut soon because of hand and groin issues. The spell will hinge on his health and whether the Wizards can surround him with real help. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Anthony Davis signs a long-term extension with Washington this offseason: 20%.
Feb 12
Durant Questions Luka Doncic and Nikola Jokic All Star Effort
Kevin Durant shifted the spotlight ahead of Sunday’s 2026 All-Star Game, saying reporters should "ask the Europeans and the World team if they're going to compete." He singled out Luka Dončić and Nikola Jokić, saying "these two dudes...they don't care," and questioned whether Team World will treat the new round-robin format seriously. Durant’s comments frame the week as less about American effort and more about whether the international stars will take the game seriously. Merlin sees a matchup of pride versus spectacle. Veterans like Durant, LeBron and Kawhi bring reputation and intent, while Jokić, Dončić and Wembanyama have a history of All-Star theatrics. If the globe’s stars treat it like the Olympics, fans may get fireworks; if not, applause will beat effort. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds the 2026 All-Star Game shows real defense: 30%.
Feb 12
Naismith Hall of Fame Finalists: Griffin, Amare Stoudemire, Parker, Rivers
The Naismith Hall of Fame announced its 2026 finalists, with Blake Griffin and Amar'e Stoudemire leading the player candidates and Doc Rivers among the coaches. Women’s finalists include Candace Parker, Elena Delle Donne, Chamique Holdsclaw and the 1996 U.S. Olympic team. Griffin’s 13-year run produced averages of 19 and 8, six All-Star nods and a 2011 Rookie of the Year award. Stoudemire, a high school entrant, was a Rookie of the Year, six-time All-Star and key piece of the Suns’ "Seven Seconds or Less" era. Rivers brings a championship and a spot among the "15 Greatest Coaches." Merlin senses a mix of clear locks and close calls. The 1996 team’s historical weight and Parker’s resume make their cases strong, while Rivers’ resume is hard to deny. The player spots may come down to narrative versus peak value, so expect spirited debate before April. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of enshrinement — Doc Rivers 90%, 1996 U.S. women’s team 95%, Candace Parker 85%, Amar'e Stoudemire 70%, Blake Griffin 60%.
Feb 11
Karl Anthony Towns Signs Joel Embiid Jersey Before 76ers Game
Before the 76ers faced the Knicks, two fans asked Karl-Anthony Towns to sign Joel Embiid jerseys, and Towns obliged. What began as a simple fan moment left them with a rare oddity: Embiid jerseys bearing another star’s signature, a small but memorable twist on game-night souvenirs. Merlin sees a little magic in that mixup. Towns and Embiid play on different squads and stages, so a Towns-signed Embiid jersey is more a conversation piece than a standard collectible. It captures how brief fan interactions can create one-of-a-kind items and may attract niche interest from collectors who prize stories over stats. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds those Towns-signed Embiid jerseys become sought-after collector items: 55%.
Feb 11
Jonathan Kuminga Food Feud Sparks Warriors Hawks Trade
A simmering rift between Jonathan Kuminga and the Golden State Warriors peaked in December when he missed a team event and was told "someone around him was taking too much food from the family room," an incident called "the most tense flare-up" in a "relatively cordial cold war." Multiple sources called the disconnect "petty." Stephen Curry reportedly rolled his eyes and Buddy Hield joked "They lying it was Jimmy." The saga ended when Kuminga was traded to the Atlanta Hawks ahead of the February deadline for Kristaps Porziņģis. Merlin senses small sparks reveal deeper fractures. A snack-room dustup reads like a symptom, not the cause. Golden State moved to reset chemistry, while Atlanta picks up a raw, high-upside wing who may flourish away from Bay Area noise. The real work starts now: turn a petty moment into growth or let it mark a pattern. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Kuminga becomes a regular starter for Atlanta next season: 55%.
Feb 11
Vince Carter Challenges Slam Dunk Contest With Two Elbows Dunk
Merlin sees Vince Carter dropping a playful bomb on the Cousins podcast: he always wanted to do a dunk where he put "Two elbows on the rim, then dunk." Carter said, "I did it in high school. It's my first time ever telling you." Tracy McGrady pushed the idea, calling it a world‑level challenge. With Carter Bryant, Jaxson Hayes, Keshad Johnson and Jase Richardson set for the Slam Dunk Contest, the suggestion could inspire someone to try the unheard trick this Saturday. Merlin chuckles at the audacity. The move is flashy and dangerous, the kind of stunt that could steal a contest or end in disaster. High flyers love a moment to make history, so expect creativity to spike even if perfect execution is rare. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds someone attempts VC’s two‑elbows dunk at the contest: 20%.
Feb 11
LeBron James and USC's JuJu Watkins Unveil NXXT Gen Shoe
LeBron James and USC guard JuJu Watkins co-created a LeBron NXXT Gen shoe, with the "Silver Lining" colorway due this summer. Watkins said "Working with LeBron to co-create a first is wild" and that it is "built for my game, my story." Nike praises its "balance of court feel and bounce" tailored to her downhill drives and shot creation. Merlin notes the move keeps Watkins prominent despite a torn ACL. Nike signed her to an NIL deal in 2024, a pact Shams Charania called "one of the richest shoe endorsement deals in women's basketball." Watkins averaged 25.5 points, 7 rebounds and 3.4 assists as a two-time All-American. Co-creating under LeBron's line is a clear step toward a solo signature sneaker. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: 70% chance JuJu Watkins gets her own signature sneaker within two years.
Feb 11
Jeremy Sochan Released By Spurs, 76ers Among Suitors
San Antonio released Jeremy Sochan, who is now a free agent and "expected to decide among multiple interested teams." That matters because he is a cheap, versatile forward available on the buyout market and several contenders — notably the 76ers, Suns, Knicks and even the Grizzlies — are linked to him. Sochan’s role had shrunk this season, he averaged "7.5 minutes per game" in January and was "a healthy scratch," so both player and team needed a fresh start. Merlin sees a young glue player who still offers defensive chops and switchability, the kind of piece playoff teams prize when depth matters. Fit will decide his fate: Philadelphia’s need for forwards, Phoenix’s injury worries, New York’s prior interest and Memphis’s open spot all create plausible landing spots. Expect a quick, low-cost signing that gives Sochan a clear role. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Sochan signs with a playoff team this week: 80%.
Feb 11
LeBron James Could Bolt Lakers for Cavaliers or Warriors
ESPN’s Brian Windhorst told The Rich Eisen Show that if LeBron plays again he’ll likely face a choice: take a pay cut to remain a Laker or test the market. Windhorst said the Cleveland Cavaliers and Golden State Warriors would "make sense" as landing spots. LeBron is on a $52.6 million player option and is averaging 21.8 points, 6.9 assists and 5.7 rebounds while the Lakers sit 32-21. Merlin senses a tug-of-war between money and legacy. If Los Angeles stays in the title hunt, LeBron may accept less to finish his story there. If the Lakers falter, richer short-term offers could lure him to a one-year detour. Cap space, roster fit and his appetite for another ring will decide the final move. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds LeBron returns to the Lakers next season: 65%.
Feb 11
Giannis Antetokounmpo, Anthony Anderson Headline NBA Celebrity Game in LA
Merlin sees Los Angeles hosting the NBA Celebrity All-Star Game Friday, February 13 at 7:00 p.m. EST from the Kia Forum, airing on ESPN. Celebrities, former pros and current stars from TV, film, music and sport will mix with coaches like Giannis Antetokounmpo, Alex and Thanasis and Mookie Betts in a showcase meant to attract new fans and boost engagement. Merlin notes the roster blends real athletes such as Jeremy Lin, Tacko Fall and Amon-Ra St. Brown with entertainers like Simu Liu and Glorilla, plus owners and influencers. Antony Anderson returns as a sideline presence with a legacy dating to 2003, and last year’s MVP Rome Flynn adds competitive spice. Expect bright highlights, social buzz and a playful game that leans spectacle over strict competition. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Rome Flynn repeats as MVP: 30%.
Feb 11
Pistons Hornets Chaos: Stewart Duren Bridges Diabate Suspended
Merlin sees the NBA hand down multi-game suspensions after the Pistons-Hornets brawl. Isaiah Stewart drew seven games for "leaving the bench area, aggressively entering an on-court altercation, and fighting," with the league citing his "repeated history of unsportsmanlike acts." Miles Bridges and Moussa Diabate were suspended four games for "fighting and escalating the altercation," and Jalen Duren got two games for "initiating the altercation and fighting." All four will lose salary and their bans start Wednesday. Merlin senses the league trying to stop repeat chaos. Short suspensions will force lineup shuffles and test each team’s depth, while Stewart’s longer ban is a clear warning to players with prior incidents. Expect coaches to tighten discipline and for rival teams to pounce on the temporary openings. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of another similar brawl this season involving these players: 8%.
Feb 11
Flagg vs Knueppel: 2026 Rising Stars Showdown
The 2026 Rising Stars rosters are set across Team Melo, Team Vince, Team T-Mac and Team Austin, mixing high lottery picks, rookie standouts and hungry G League stars. "They got next. Or maybe they got now." The list includes Cooper Flagg, Kon Knueppel, Tre Johnson and others, but notable omissions remain, most glaringly Ace Bailey, the No. 5 pick who is averaging 11.6 points and was the lone top-10 2025 draftee left off the rosters. Merlin sees the narrative folding into a likely Team Melo versus Team T-Mac finale, a fresh duel between Duke-linked rivals Flagg and Knueppel. The G League entries could make noise with effort and toughness, but Knueppel’s shooting and Tre Johnson’s help give Team T-Mac the edge. Watch for defense to decide the game more than flare. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Team T-Mac wins Rising Stars and Kon Knueppel takes MVP: 60%.
Feb 11
Isaiah Stewart Suspended 7 Games After Pistons Hornets Brawl
A wild third quarter brawl in Monday’s Pistons-Hornets game led the NBA to suspend four players. Pistons center Isaiah Stewart got seven games for leaving the bench to confront Miles Bridges, who received four games. Hornets center Moussa Diabate was suspended four games and Pistons center Jalen Duren two games. All were ejected in Detroit’s 110-104 win that snapped Charlotte’s nine-game streak. Duren called it an “overly competitive game” and said, “This isn't the first time that people have tried to be like extra aggressive with us.” Merlin sees the fallout in plain sight. Detroit’s frontcourt depth takes a real hit just as the Pistons sit atop the East, while Charlotte loses momentum in a fragile rebuild. The league will watch discipline and repeat behavior closely. Expect sharper officiating and tighter rosters in the short term. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Detroit drops at least two of its next five games without Duren and Stewart: 45%.
Feb 11
2026 NBA Dunk Contest: Jaxson Hayes vs Keshad Johnson
Merlin sees the 2026 Dunk Contest field and smiles with a shrug. The event lost an All Star when Jalen Duren withdrew with a knee injury, leaving Jaxson Hayes, Jase Richardson, Carter Bryant and Keshad Johnson to carry All-Star Saturday’s signature show. Fame may be thin on the backs of these jerseys, but raw dunking chops are not. As the piece notes, star power and dunk prowess are different things. Merlin notes the matchups: Hayes brings the most resume as a bouncy seven footer, Richardson carries a legacy from his father, Bryant is a 20-year-old toolshed with length, and Johnson lives at the rim with 16 career dunks out of 42 field goals. Home-state vibes and creative finishes could decide it. Expect misses to matter; one clean run can crown a surprise hero. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Keshad Johnson winning the Dunk Contest: 45%.
Feb 11
Victor Wembanyama's Historic 40 Powers Spurs Past Lakers
With Luka Dončić, LeBron James and Austin Reaves resting, Victor Wembanyama erupted for 40 points and 12 rebounds in 26 minutes to lift the Spurs to a 136-108 win at Crypto.com Arena. "It's the first time in NBA history a player scored at least 40 points and grabbed 12 rebounds in 26 or fewer minutes." He had 37 by halftime, including 25 in the first quarter, and is hitting career highs as San Antonio rides a five-game streak at 37-16. Merlin sees a statement night more than a fluke. Dominance in limited minutes sharpens Wembanyama's ceiling and nudges him into MVP conversation, but availability is a real hurdle since he can miss only three more games and stay eligible. If he keeps this level, the Spurs can seriously chase the top seed. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: (“Odds of Wembanyama winning MVP this season: 10%.”)
Feb 11
Lonzo Ball, Malik Beasley Lead NBA Free Agents
The trade deadline passed and many veterans were waived, leaving teams to shop the free agent shelf and the G League for reinforcements. Eric Pincus catalogs top available names — veterans such as Dario Šarić, Kevin Knox, Bismack Bamba, Skal Labissiere, DeMarcus Plumlee, Patrick Patterson? (skip) — alongside G League standouts like Pedulla, Smith, Thompson, Nix, Davis, Chandler, East, Quiñones and Jeffries. Expect 10-day deals, two-ways and standard signings as teams chase depth before the March 1 postseason eligibility cutoff. Merlin sees contending clubs hunting shooters and instant playmakers while rebuilding teams audition high-upside scorers. Veterans will fill emergency minutes; the real movement will be a parade of G League stars earning short contracts and trying to turn auditions into longer spells. Watch the Next Up Game for the next wave of call-ups. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds that at least six players from this list sign NBA deals before March 1: 65%.
Feb 11
Kuminga Kerr Rift Ends Warriors Run Sparks Hawks Trade
Merlin sees Jonathan Kuminga’s rocky fit in Golden State finally fracture after a Dec. 10 meeting that began over a missed team event and someone taking extra food and ended with "Kerr slamming his white board in frustration." The sit‑down featured Kerr accusing Kuminga of lacking buy‑in and Kuminga pushing back about Kerr's "longtime lack of belief." Missed games, declined mop‑up chances, a left knee bone bruise, and shrinking minutes all preceded his Feb. 5 trade to Atlanta. Merlin notes Kuminga flashed promise early, averaging 17.2 points on 51.4 percent in nine starts, then cooled after a 10‑of‑29 stretch and long stretches off the court. Atlanta inherits a young, injured wing with talent but a trust gap. If he returns healthy and the Hawks give a clear role, Kuminga can reset; otherwise the tale may repeat. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Kuminga becomes a regular starter in Atlanta this season: 30%.
Feb 11
Kevin Durant's 1000th 20 Point Night Sends Rockets Past Clippers
Kevin Durant made history as the Houston Rockets edged the Los Angeles Clippers 102-95 at the Toyota Center, reaching the "20-point threshold for the 1,000th time" and joining LeBron James, Karl Malone and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. Durant scored 26 on 8-of-22 shooting with three steals, while Kawhi Leonard led the Clippers with 28 and eight rebounds but got little offensive help as Los Angeles shot 26.7 percent from three. Alperen Şengün’s efficient 22 and Reed Sheppard’s 16 off the bench, plus a stingy third quarter that held the Clippers to 20 points, sealed the win as Houston moved to 33-19. Merlin sees the milestone as a quiet reminder of Durant’s relentless scoring craft, even on imperfect nights. The Rockets leaned on interior play and defense to win, while the Clippers’ bench and outside shooting remain a concern around Leonard. Expect Houston to lean into defense and Durant’s veteran polish; Los Angeles must find secondary scorers fast. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of the Rockets finishing top four in the West this season: 25%.
Feb 11
Bulls' Collin Sexton Fined $35,000 For Middle Finger
Collin Sexton was fined $35,000 after "flipping his middle finger at the rim" following a 1-of-2 free throw in Monday’s 123-115 loss to the Nets. Sexton, in his first game with the Bulls, scored 21 points off the bench. The veteran guard has been moved several times this season and Chicago sits 24-30, 11th in the East. Merlin notes the gesture is a small spectacle and a sign of edge. Sexton averages 14.4 points this season and "How he'll factor into the Bulls' plans remains to be seen as the team seemingly moves towards a rebuild." The fine is a reminder that energy can warm a locker room or become a distraction, and Chicago will judge production against temperament. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Sexton becoming a long-term Bull this season: 25%.
Feb 10