NBA News
Latest stories across platforms — updated frequently
Articles are authored by Merlin — the SportsWZRD.
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Feb 1, 2026
Cavs Upgrade: Schroder Ellis for DeAndre Hunter
Late Saturday, Shams Charania reported the three-team deal: "The Cleveland Cavaliers are trading De'Andre Hunter to the Sacramento Kings for Dennis Schroder and Keon Ellis," with the Chicago Bulls getting Dario Saric and two future second-round picks. Cleveland walks away with clearer backcourt depth and about $50 million in salary and tax relief, an immediate upgrade. Chicago quietly turned a roster move into future assets. Sacramento took a risky, win-now swing by adding Hunter to a veteran group that many think should be collecting youth and picks. Merlin sees a tidy victor in Cleveland. Ellis brings defense and shooting, Schroder brings veteran juice, and the cap savings matter as much as minutes. Hunter’s contract and fit make him a fragile chess piece for Sacramento; he must adapt to keep value. The Bulls played the long game and gained cheap odds on the future. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Cleveland reaching the Eastern Conference finals this season: 40%.
Jason Kidd Stands By Cooper Flagg As Mavericks Point Guard
Merlin sees Dallas coach Jason Kidd shrugging off outside noise after leaning on rookie Cooper Flagg at point guard. Kidd told reporters, "Criticism? That's your opinion. You guys write that bulls--t," and added, "I know what the f--k I'm doing." His defense comes after Flagg scored an NBA record 49 points as a teenager, then followed with 34 points and 12 rebounds, showing clear improvement in ball handling even as the Mavericks dropped a fourth straight game. Merlin notes Kidd speaks like a teacher who has graded many young stars. Flagg’s back-to-back bursts suggest real upside as a lead guard, but team defense and rotations will decide whether those flashes turn into consistent wins. Trust from a veteran coach can speed maturity, yet results must follow for the peace to last. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Cooper Flagg remains Dallas’ primary point guard through season end: 65%.
Feb 1
DeAndre Hunter To Kings, Lakers Scramble Before Trade Deadline
Merlin sees the Lakers forced to pivot after De'Andre Hunter landed in Sacramento. The Kings got Hunter in a three-team swap that sent Dennis Schröder and Keon Ellis to Cleveland and Dario Šarić plus two second-rounders to Chicago. Los Angeles had "discussed a general framework" with Cleveland for Hunter, so his departure leaves the Lakers short on wing depth with five days until the deadline. Merlin notes Los Angeles is circling several fits: versatile two-way wings like Josh Marshall and Donte DiVincenzo, and the more coveted Herbert Jones or Trey Murphy III. Marshall even said he missed Luka "dearly," showing familiarity with winning roles. The Pelicans are reportedly resistant to deals, so the Lakers’ path likely runs through cheaper, tradeable wings rather than a blockbuster swap. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds the Lakers land a meaningful wing before Feb. 5: 45%.
Feb 1
Cavs Flip De'Andre Hunter to Kings, Land Dennis Schroder
Merlin sees Cleveland sending wing De'Andre Hunter to Sacramento for Dennis Schröder and Keon Ellis, while Chicago picks up Dario Saric and two future second-round picks. The move frees about $50 million in salary and tax space for the Cavaliers and gives the Kings a versatile scorer next to Domantas Sabonis, DeMar DeRozan and Zach LaVine as Sacramento tries to reverse a 12-38 slide. Merlin remembers Hunter as a 2019 No. 4 pick whose injuries stalled progress, yet he still averages about 14 points this season and shot 42.6 percent from three to close 2024-25 before cooling to 30.8 percent this year. The Kings hope a change of scenery and veteran leaders restore his stroke. Cleveland’s haul of cap relief points to a roster reset, while the Bulls add depth and future assets. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Hunter boosts his three-point percentage to 36% with Sacramento this season: 45%.
Feb 1
Giannis Trade a Coin Flip for Milwaukee Bucks
The trade deadline is Thursday at 3 p.m. ET and the league is watching whether the Bucks will move Giannis Antetokounmpo after 12 seasons. Insiders are split: Zach Lowe calls it a "coin flip" while Shams Charania says Giannis is "ready and prepared" for a trade and that Milwaukee is fielding "aggressive trade offers." The Bucks want a blue chip young player and/or a haul of picks even as Giannis rehabs a calf injury, after averaging 28.0 points on 64.5 percent shooting. Merlin senses a patient market now that may flip fast once teams feel pressure. Clubs with extra firsts or clever pick-churning moves hold leverage, and rumors can force deals sooner than planners expect. The deadline could pass quietly or become the pivot that reshapes the next decade. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Giannis is traded before Thursday’s deadline: 45%.
Jan 31
Giannis Antetokounmpo Wants Out Bucks Trade Deadline Chaos
Merlin sees the trade season sliding into complete chaos: Giannis Antetokounmpo "has informed the Bucks for months that he believes the moment has come to part ways," and Milwaukee is reportedly "more open than ever" to moving him. With Feb. 5 approaching, a long list of stars from Ja Morant to Anthony Davis and Domantas Sabonis could change addresses, forcing rapid, complicated moves leaguewide. Merlin senses teams are already circling—New York, Miami, San Antonio and others will test Milwaukee’s resolve while the Bucks try to reclaim first-round assets or chase elite prospects if Giannis departs. Expect multi-team creativity, cautious sellers protecting futures, and buyers balancing upside with financial realities as the deadline narrative shifts hour by hour. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Giannis is traded before Feb. 5: 55%.
Jan 31
Ja Morant's Cryptic Tweet Fuels Memphis Trade Speculation
Ja Morant stirred deadline drama with a cryptic X post saying "Time tells the truth" as the Grizzlies reportedly weigh offers, per Shams Charania. Months of tension with coaches, recent on-court struggles, and a UCL sprain have drained his trade value, leaving little interest as the deadline nears. The coming week should decide his fate. Merlin senses a tense crossroads. An injured star with public friction is a risky purchase for contenders, so Memphis may choose to wait for Morant to heal or accept a modest return. If he stays, expect a subdued finish while teams quietly gauge his status. If he moves, it will likely be for role players or draft assets rather than a blockbuster. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Morant being traded before the deadline: 20%.
Jan 31
Warriors Could Trade Draymond Green to Land Giannis
Merlin sees Golden State as one of the most serious suitors for Giannis Antetokounmpo, but any deal could require moving a beloved veteran. Insiders say a trade "is unlikely to involve Jimmy Butler's contract" after his ACL, which opens the door for Draymond Green to be the salary piece. That choice would force the Warriors to decide if breaking up core chemistry is worth adding a two-time MVP. Portland has also "expressed" interest, though getting Giannis to sign an extension there would be "an extreme longshot." Merlin notes the league could reshape around a multi-team chess match. Portland might act as a facilitator to "snag an impact veteran" while New York could use Jrue Holiday to sweeten offers. Talent fits, salary math, and Giannis's willingness to stay are the real spells to cast before any move materializes. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Warriors include Draymond in a Giannis trade this offseason: 20%.
Jan 31
Paul George Suspended 25 Games Shocks 76ers
The NBA has suspended Paul George for 25 games after finding a violation of the league’s anti-drug program. George said he “mistakenly took an ‘improper medication.’” The ban starts Saturday against New Orleans and runs through March 23, with George eligible to return March 25. It is his longest absence since the 2021-22 UCL injury and comes while he averages 16.0 points, 5.1 rebounds and 1.5 steals this season for a 26-21 Sixers team. Merlin sees Philadelphia forced to lean harder on Tyrese Maxey, Joel Embiid and rookie VJ Edgecombe to cover scoring and wing defense. The trade market already felt quiet, so adjustments will be internal: lineup changes, more minutes for role players, and strategic coaching tweaks. George’s absence will test the Sixers’ depth and could cost them seeding, but the core still looks playoff ready. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Philadelphia making the playoffs this season: 85%.
Jan 31
Giannis Unlikely, Cavs Lakers Trade Buzz
Most of the chatter is on Giannis, but insiders warn an “avalanche” of smaller deals could hit before Thursday’s 3 p.m. ET deadline. Merlin notes league voices like Brian Windhorst saying there are “not a whole lot” of star moves, but “you're definitely gonna see other activity.” Teams are hunting depth and tweaks — a reported Cavs‑Lakers talk swapping De'Andre Hunter for Rui Hachimura is one example of practical, mutually helpful trades. Merlin sees a deadline where role players and salary fits shape contenders more than headline swaps. Big names with heavy contracts are harder to move, while expiring deals and affordable wings will trade often. Expect a flurry of useful pieces, not seismic shifts, and a few late surprises as teams chase playoff chemistry. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: (“Odds of Giannis getting traded before the deadline: 10%.”)
Jan 31
NBA Trade Deadline: Lakers and Warriors Passing on De'Andre Hunter
Merlin sees the Lakers and Warriors linked to Cleveland forward De'Andre Hunter, but league sources say neither looks like a likely landing spot. The Lakers have been "reticent to jeopardize their upcoming financial flexibility" by absorbing Hunter’s $24.9 million salary, and Golden State’s interest faded as the team’s "Giannis chase" became the main focus. Hunter is 28 and averaging 14.0 points on 42.3 percent shooting with 4.2 assists in his seventh season. Merlin notes the deadline is a puzzle of money and fit. Cleveland may still move Hunter, but teams with cap plans or star chases will pass unless a creative package appears. Expect quieter work from the usual suitors and last‑minute whispers rather than a headline deal. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of De’Andre Hunter being traded before Thursday’s deadline: 20%.
Jan 31
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Joe Brady Hires Jim Leonhard As Bills Defensive Coordinator
Joe Brady has found his defensive coordinator. Per NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the Buffalo Bills are hiring Jim Leonhard from the Denver Broncos, with a contract agreed. A former NFL safety who coached at Wisconsin and rose to passing game coordinator and assistant head coach in Denver, Leonhard helped shepherd one of the league’s stingiest defenses as the Broncos ranked among the best in yards and points allowed while finishing 14-3 and reaching the AFC Championship. Brady also brought in Pete Carmichael Jr. and confirmed "he will be the team's offensive playcaller in 2026." Merlin sees Buffalo moving with purpose. Leonhard brings proven scheme work and secondary craft from a top Broncos unit, giving Brady a defensive architect to match his offense. The fit will hinge on personnel and adjustment speed, but the hire signals a clear bid to control both sides of the ball rather than tinker. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Buffalo finishing top 10 in scoring defense next season: 45%.
Jan 31
Cavs Could Flip Lonzo Ball and De'Andre Hunter
A handful of role players could move before next week’s trade deadline, with the Cleveland Cavaliers’ De’Andre Hunter and Lonzo Ball named "potential trade candidates." Merlin notes the Cavs and Sacramento "have discussed a framework that would send" Hunter to the Kings for Keon Ellis, Dennis Schroeder, and Dario Saric, with Saric possibly flipped and a second round pick involved. The Kings are also "sifting through a variety" of scenarios around Ellis, while the Lakers, Suns and others have checked in on targets like Hunter and Jeremy Sochan. Merlin sees a market hungry for wing scoring and playmaking. Hunter, averaging 14 points, offers a clear fit for teams chasing spacing and defense. Ball’s steady playmaking is easier to move, though Cleveland will weigh contracts, as they did when balking at a Malik Monk swap. Expect small, strategic moves more than blockbuster upheaval. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds De’Andre Hunter lands in Sacramento by the deadline: 40%.
Jan 31
Luka Doncic Trade to Lakers Remade NBA
One year after Dallas sent Luka Dončić to Los Angeles, the league is reshaped. The Mavs tumbled into the lottery, used the pick on Cooper Flagg, and GM Nico Harrison was shown the door after parroting "defense wins championships" to defend the swap. The Lakers suddenly have a younger franchise cornerstone, playoff matchups shifted, injuries and subsequent moves altered title paths, and several teams’ timelines bent under the weight of one seismic trade. Merlin sees the trade as a single stone that toppled many dominos. If Dallas had kept Luka they likely remain a contender; if Los Angeles had not landed him the franchise might still be leaning on aging stars. Luka delivers long term hope to L.A., but the future will hinge on health and shrewd roster building. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Luka leads the Lakers to an NBA title within two seasons: 30%.
Jan 31
Draymond Green Shrugs Off Giannis Trade to Warriors
Draymond Green shrugged off swirling trade chatter, telling reporters he "ain't losing no sleep" and that he "slept great last night" after the Warriors’ loss. He said he will not hound the front office but that "My phone is always on," signaling willingness to help while keeping his focus. The larger rumor is that Golden State could assemble a massive package for Giannis Antetokounmpo with Stephen Curry labeled the "only untouchable," but salary and timing make any deal complicated. Merlin sees Green as the steady talisman the Warriors want to keep. Matching Giannis’ contract would likely need expiring salaries and multiple future firsts, and Green’s $27.7 million option could make him a poor fit for Milwaukee. The Bucks seem likely to wait until summer, so drama may only deepen. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Giannis landing in Golden State before Feb. 5: 20%.
Jan 31
Jongkuch Mach 7 Foot 6 Taller Than Wembanyama
Seventeen-year-old Jongkuch Mach measures 7'6", already taller than every active NBA player, including Victor Wembanyama. He plays for the Centre of Excellence in Australia’s NBL1 East, where in 16 games he averaged 2.7 points, 3.2 rebounds and 1.0 blocks in 10.2 minutes while shooting 70 percent from the field. Agent Solomon Dech said, "It's challenging, but he's put on 20 kilos in the last 12 months." Several U.S. colleges have shown interest. Merlin sees the raw allure of a 7'6" frame. Mach does not yet have Wembanyama's range, but his finishing and shot blocking make him a rare prospect. The Centre of Excellence has been rebuilding his body and fundamentals. If he adds strength, mobility and a touch outside, his rise could be swift. If not, the journey will take longer. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Mach plays college basketball in the U.S. next season: 65%.
Jan 31
Kevin Durant Shocked By Giannis Antetokounmpo Bucks Trade Rumors
Merlin sees Kevin Durant was surprised to be named in trade chatter around Giannis Antetokounmpo after SiriusXM's Justin Termine floated the idea that Giannis might shun cold cities. ESPN’s Shams Charania had reported Durant had "no desire" to join Minnesota, and Durant pushed back on social media while reminding fans of his place on the all-time scoring list. He remains an elite scorer this season for Houston, averaging 26.5 points with efficient shooting. Merlin senses the noise is more rumor than roadmap. At 37, with championships, an MVP and the Rockets at 29-17, Durant looks like a player teams expect to use to win now rather than a centerpiece in a blockbuster swap. His online jabs calm curiosity and keep the focus on the court. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Kevin Durant being involved in a Giannis trade this season: 5%.
Jan 30
Derrick Rose Says No To Bulls Statue
Derrick Rose says he does not want a statue outside the United Center after seeing Dwyane Wade’s monument. "No knock, D-Wade. I saw that statue," Rose told reporters. "I'm good." He added, "I don't want a statue of myself... I feel like that's idolizing." The comment follows the Bulls retiring his No. 1 on Jan. 24 and recalls his MVP season and years as Chicago’s face before injuries slowed him. Merlin sees a player comfortable with a quieter legacy. Rose prefers respect over marble, trusting fans and history to remember him. Chicago already gave him a major honor with the jersey retirement, so a statue feels less urgent. Still, anniversaries or a groundswell of fan sentiment could nudge the team later. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Derrick Rose getting a United Center statue in the next five years: 20%.
Jan 30
Michael Porter Jr Not Available In Nets Trade Talks
Merlin sees the Nets are not selling Michael Porter Jr. despite trade chatter. Brian Windhorst said, "I know everybody thinks that Porter's available, that would be news to me." Marc Stein adds he is "hearing pushback about the Nets' willingness to part ways with Porter." Porter is enjoying a career year at 25.6 points, 7.3 rebounds and 3.2 assists while shooting 48.2 percent overall and 39.8 percent from three, as Brooklyn sits 12-34 and 13th in the East. With one year left on his contract, Brooklyn can afford to wait until the offseason to test the market. Merlin senses the front office values Porter's scoring and championship experience and will avoid deadline panic. Expect calm around the deadline and louder trade talk once teams can plan for summer moves. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Porter being traded before the 2026 deadline: 20%.
Jan 30
Kevin Durant, Rockets: Passing Kareem Abdul Jabbar Not Priority
Kevin Durant downplayed chasing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s scoring mark, telling reporters "I never wanna say never" while stressing he just wants to "be around and be in the league." At 37 and in his 18th season, Durant averages 26.5 points and sits sixth all-time with 31,736 points. Closing the gap to Kareem’s 38,387 would require roughly 6,600 more points and long stretches of health and high-level scoring. Merlin sees Durant treating this like a long quest, not a headline chase. The numbers demand about three to four seasons of elite output at current pace, so durability is the true gatekeeper. If Durant stays on the court and keeps scoring, history might bend; if not, he still finishes a remarkable career without topping that particular summit. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Kevin Durant passing Kareem's career scoring mark in his career: 20%.
Jan 30
Giannis Trade Drama Leaves Heat Knicks Wolves Warriors Reeling
Four teams have emerged as frontrunners for Giannis Antetokounmpo: the Heat, Knicks, Timberwolves and Warriors. Milwaukee is reportedly asking for "all of your young players and all of your draft picks," a price that could keep Giannis in Milwaukee past the Feb. 5 deadline and leave most suitors waking up disappointed. Merlin sees the chessboard shifting. Miami can stay patient and chase a loaded 2027 free agent class. New York looks like a long shot and should focus on repairing Karl-Anthony Towns' trade value. Minnesota can press on with Anthony Edwards and modest upgrades. Golden State would feel the sting most and must flip young assets or wait for the next star. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Giannis is traded before Feb. 5 deadline: 30%.
Jan 30
Warriors Offer Everything But Stephen Curry For Giannis
Merlin sees the Warriors reportedly willing to put every asset but Stephen Curry on the table to pursue Giannis Antetokounmpo. Sources say Curry is "the only untouchable" and Golden State is "ready to give up a whole lot" with a "compelling" pitch as the Bucks are "starting to listen." Matching salary, limits on first-round pick moves and the need to include veterans like Draymond Green or Jimmy Butler complicate any deal. Merlin notes rival suitors like Miami, Minnesota and New York will push the price higher. With Butler injured and draft conveyance limits, the Warriors may need to surrender core depth and future picks. If Golden State truly opens the vault, the title race shifts overnight, but the Bucks can still wait for the best return. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Warriors land Giannis by Feb. 5: 20%.
Jan 30
Bucks Trade Buzz Teams Hesitant to Max Giannis Antetokounmpo
Merlin sees growing worry around the league about committing to Giannis long term. Brian Windhorst reported one potential suitor said they "are not crazy" about having to extend him for the max. Giannis can become eligible Oct. 1 for a four-year, $275 million extension that would run into his age-35 season, and recent calf strains plus frequent missed games have made teams cautious. Merlin plots the trade off: a two-time MVP who can tilt a title series versus the cost, apron limits, and health risk. Many contenders would still pay up after a trade because the upside is rare, but front offices may push for protections, shorter structures, or medical contingencies. If the calf trouble continues, leverage and trade interest could shift quickly. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds a team signs Giannis to a four-year, $275M extension within a year: 65%.
Jan 30
Giannis Antetokounmpo Has Lakers In Sights
Merlin sees the Lakers on Giannis Antetokounmpo’s radar. Howard Beck called L.A. "a team to keep an eye [on] from Giannis' standpoint just as another team of interest," and Shams Charania says the Bucks are "starting to listen" to "aggressive offers" with Miami, Minnesota, Golden State and New York among top suitors. Giannis is averaging 28.0, 10.0 and 5.6 but has played 30 games and is sidelined with a calf strain. The Lakers look likelier to pursue a move in the offseason when they have more first-round picks and clarity on LeBron James and Austin Reaves. Merlin senses that pairing Giannis with Luka would instantly tilt the Western Conference, yet the salary math and the probable need to include LeBron make a quick deadline swap unlikely. Health, draft capital and timing point to a high-stakes offseason chess match rather than an immediate blockbuster. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Giannis joining the Lakers this offseason: 18%.
Jan 30
76ers Refuse Trading VJ Edgecombe For Giannis Antetokounmpo
Merlin sees Philadelphia is unlikely to include rookie VJ Edgecombe in any Giannis Antetokounmpo offer. One league source "completely shot down" the idea, even as reports say Giannis is intrigued by playing with Tyrese Maxey. Edgecombe is averaging 15.1 points, 36.9 percent from three, 5.4 rebounds, 4.1 assists and 1.5 steals in 43 starts and could have up to three years left on his rookie deal. Merlin notes Daryl Morey loves chasing stars, but trading a 20-year-old on a cost controlled contract is a steep price when Joel Embiid and Paul George are the team's top earners and Giannis has battled multiple calf problems. With the Sixers climbing to 26-21 and boasting a young backcourt of Maxey and Edgecombe, Philadelphia looks more inclined to build than to gamble away its future. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds the 76ers include VJ Edgecombe in a Giannis trade: 5%.
Jan 30