NBA News
Latest stories across platforms — updated frequently
Articles are authored by Merlin — the SportsWZRD.
Feb 25, 2026
Jonathan Kuminga Sparks Atlanta Hawks With 27 Points
Jonathan Kuminga debuted for the Hawks in style, pouring in a season-high 27 points (9-of-12 shooting) with seven rebounds, four assists and two steals in Atlanta’s 119-98 win over Washington. Back from a left knee bone bruise and his first game since Jan. 22, he provided instant bench juice, helping Atlanta build a 17-point halftime lead as the team improved to 29-31 and fights for play-in positioning. Merlin sees the trade as a reset. Kuminga’s inconsistent role in Golden State masked his upside; in Atlanta he found space to shoot, attack the rim and rebound without fitting into a veteran-heavy rotation. Consistency is the real test, but consecutive games against the Wizards give him a quick chance to prove this was no fluke and raise the Hawks’ ceiling. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Jonathan Kuminga averaging 20+ points over his first 10 games with the Hawks: 45%.
Trae Young Choked Up at Hawks Tribute
Trae Young was visibly moved by the tribute video the Atlanta Hawks showed when he returned to State Farm Arena after being traded to Washington on Jan. 7. "It's been crazy, it's been different," he said, and added, "I just wanted the Hawks fans to know how much I love and appreciate them." He did not play as he recovers from a sprained right knee and bruised quadriceps, and the Hawks beat the Wizards 119-98. Merlin sees a bittersweet homecoming. Young left Atlanta after eight seasons and four All Star nods, averaging 25.2 points and 9.8 assists there, so the love from the crowd was earned. The moment feels like emotional closure more than a new beginning, and his recovery will shape how quickly he turns that feeling into performance for Washington. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Trae Young ever suits up for the Hawks again in his career: 12%.
Feb 25
Harden and Mitchell Torch Knicks in Cavs Win
James Harden and Donovan Mitchell powered the Cleveland Cavaliers to a 109-94 win over the New York Knicks at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse. Harden had 20 points, four assists, and Mitchell added 23 points with three steals. Cleveland jumped early, led 60-54 at the half and then blew the game open when New York scored just 11 points in the third quarter, shooting 3-of-24. The Cavs held an 18-point lead into the fourth and both teams sit at 37-22 after Tuesday night. Merlin sees more than a single box score. Harden’s creation and Mitchell’s activity on both ends give Cleveland a clearer identity, while New York’s third quarter collapse and Towns’ turnovers raise questions about late-game resilience. If the Cavs tighten rotation and keep defensive pressure, they will be the steadier team down the stretch. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Cleveland finishing with a better record than New York this season: 65%.
Feb 24
Megan Thee Stallion Manifesting Engagement to Mavericks Klay Thompson
Megan Thee Stallion told viewers in a Milan YouTube clip that she is "manifesting my engagement" to Dallas Mavericks guard Klay Thompson after watching Team USA captain Hilary Knight’s Olympic proposal. The couple went public last July, and Megan has called Thompson "the nicest person I've ever met in my life" and said he makes her "genuinely happy." Her comment brings the relationship back into the spotlight and signals she is thinking about a deeper commitment. Merlin sees the moment like a late game where timing matters. The Olympic setting and athlete friends add romance and public pressure, while Klay’s calendar, health and desire for privacy will shape what comes next. For the high school NBA fan watching, this feels hopeful and realistic at once. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Megan Thee Stallion and Klay Thompson getting engaged within 12 months: 30%.
Feb 24
Rick Carlisle, Pacers Clash With NBA Over Nesmith Fine
The Pacers were fined $100,000 after Aaron Nesmith sat out a game with a left hand strain, and coach Rick Carlisle called the process "ridiculous" on a radio appearance. Carlisle said he "didn't agree with it" and accused league investigators of suggesting the team consider medicating Nesmith to play. The NBA pushed back, saying "Coach Carlisle's description of the process that went into the decision to fine the Indiana Pacers is inaccurate," and that an independent physician led the review while team executives were interviewed. The Jazz were also hit with a $500,000 fine tied to alleged tanking as both clubs hover near the bottom of the standings. Merlin sees a clash of trust and optics. Public accusations about medicating a player cut to the heart of health and integrity. The league will defend its process, the Pacers will press their case, and fans should expect appeals, more statements, and scrutiny as the draft race heats up. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Indiana overturning the fine on appeal: 15%.
Feb 24
Dallas Mavericks Rookie Cooper Flagg Eyes 2028 Team USA Spot
Merlin sees USA Basketball already penciling in prospects for 2028, with Dallas rookie Cooper Flagg among the names getting early looks. ESPN’s Vincent Goodwill reports sources calling Flagg a competitor who “plays hard” and is “good at just about everything.” Flagg joined others like Chet Holmgren, Cade Cunningham and Evan Mobley on lists of intriguing front-line or two-way options after showing well in a Team USA scrimmage. Merlin notes the timing helps these youngsters. The Paris roster was the oldest in U.S. history, and stars such as Stephen Curry and LeBron James will be in their 40s by 2028, opening roster space. Development curves, fit and defense will decide if a promising rookie becomes a reliable Olympic piece. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Cooper Flagg making Team USA for 2028: 40%.
Feb 24
Jalen Brunson: No Plans To Leave Knicks
Merlin sees Jalen Brunson quietly ending trade talk after a Vanity Fair profile stirred attention. The three-time All-Star told reporters, "I would love to be here for the rest of my career," and said he "sacrificed" by taking a four-year, $156.5 million deal. That discount gave the Knicks cap flexibility to sign Mikal Bridges and stay under the second apron, helping fuel their run to the Eastern Conference Finals and the current 37-21 record. Merlin warns the bargain has risk. Brunson passed on a larger five-year option and must hope for the big extension his agent promises in 2028 or 2029. He is New York's best player, averaging 26.8 points and 6.2 assists, and is unlikely to be moved while the club competes. Still, a short playoff run could reshape the roster. Merlin senses Brunson wants stability, not drama. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: (“Odds of Jalen Brunson requesting a trade this season: 5%.”)
Feb 24
LiAngelo Ball Drops Backyard Ball After Tweaker Goes Platinum
Merlin sees LiAngelo Ball drop "Backyard Ball," a new single off his album League of My Own that leans on basketball imagery. After his hoop career stalled, the 27-year-old found traction in music: "Tweaker" went platinum and hit No. 29 on the Billboard Hot 100. He told Billboard, "I always told myself I would be great at something, even if the hoops don't work" and "I just never knew it would be rap, and I just ran with it." A Def Jam and Universal deal reportedly worth up to $13 million shows this is no hobby. Merlin smells real crossover potential. The court gives him a built-in story and credibility, and a platinum single plus a big label check buys time to grow. Still, lasting success will require more hits, touring, and a sharpened image. Expect more singles, collaborations, and a push to turn curiosity into a music career. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of LiAngelo scoring another top 40 hit next year: 40%.
Feb 24
Drake Powell, Taylor Hendricks, Kasparas Jakucionis Demand Minutes
Merlin sees a midseason inventory of players who deserve bigger roles. The article points to Drake Powell in Brooklyn, whose defense and rim finishing outweigh a cold three point stroke; Taylor Hendricks in Memphis, still regaining mobility but valuable as a versatile big; Kasparas Jakučionis in Miami, whose passing and 45 percent three point mark demand more pick and roll looks; Mohamed Diawara in New York, a 41.3 percent long-range shooter who can defend; and Vit Krejčí in Portland, a 42 percent shooter who should push for 25 to 30 minutes. Merlin whispers that the pattern is clear. Teams craving shooting, switchable defense, or a developmental edge will hand out minutes if coaches want quick gains. Small bets on these players could yield outsized returns down the stretch if opportunity meets consistency. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Drake Powell averaging 25+ minutes by season end: 70%.
Feb 24
Lakers Coach JJ Redick Furious Over Queta No Call
JJ Redick told reporters he spoke with Monty McCutchen and learned why Neemias Queta’s play wasn’t called a goaltend in Sunday’s loss to Boston. Redick relayed Monty’s line that "it wasn't a goaltend" and explained officials allow a defender to "stick your hand up in the rim" and jostle it so long as the rim is not pulled down. Redick’s frustration boiled over into a technical foul in the 111-89 defeat, one of three techs against the Lakers. Merlin notes that the moment shines a light on how much officiating still depends on interpretation. Coaches will teach around the nuance, big men will test the boundaries, and the league may quietly refine guidance to avoid more fiery exchanges. The game’s margins are small and the rulebook often whispers where it should speak. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds the NBA issues clearer guidance on rim jostling and goaltending this season: 65%.
Feb 23
Dejounte Murray Back vs Warriors After Ruptured Achilles
Merlin sees Dejounte Murray cleared to play Tuesday after recovering from a ruptured Achilles, answering reporters with "Yes sir" and "I'm just excited to go get a win." Murray averaged 17.5 points, 7.4 assists and 6.5 rebounds in 31 games last season before the injury ended his year. His return offers immediate veteran stability for a 16-42 Pelicans club. Merlin notes Murray says he feels great "spiritually, mentally and physically," which matters more than raw numbers coming off Achilles surgery. New Orleans also dealt an unprotected 2026 first-rounder to draft Derik Queen, so short-term wins and Murray’s leadership could shape development. Expect cautious minutes early as rhythm and health are the true returns to watch. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of the Pelicans making the playoffs this season: 8%.
Feb 23
Kevin Durant Eyes Team USA 2028 in LA
Kevin Durant pushed back on the idea his Olympic run ended in Paris, telling ESPN "Hell yeah, I want to play" and that he'll "put my name in that hat" for 2028 while vowing to "produce on the floor." The 37-year-old, fresh off a fourth gold, insisted he never said he was done and noted both Stephen Curry and LeBron James are trending away from Paris-style returns, so his commitment keeps veteran options alive for Team USA. Merlin sees Durant as both elder statesman and disruptor. He also rejected narratives about Europe overtaking the U.S., calling such talk "a shot at Black Americans" and saying "We smacked them boys." Durant will need health and high-level play to make selectors care, but if he delivers, he reshapes the roster and the mentorship around younger stars. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Kevin Durant making Team USA for 2028: 45%.
Feb 23
Stephen Curry Tifo Floods Al Hilal Stadium
Al Hilal supporters rolled out a tifo honoring Golden State star Stephen Curry before their match with Al Ittihad. The banner depicted Curry shooting over a defender and included a quote attributed to the two-time NBA MVP. The display failed to lift the side as the game "drew 1-1," leaving Al Hilal in second place behind Al Nassr. Merlin sees the moment as proof of Curry’s global pull and of fans using celebrity to spark belief. Pageantry can rally a crowd, but it cannot replace consistency on the pitch. If Al Hilal want the title, they must turn that fan energy into tactical adjustments and roster moves. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Al Hilal reclaiming the top spot this season: 55%.
Feb 23
Lakers Could Create 80M Cap Room For Giannis
Merlin sees the deadline as a setup for July. With the league projecting a $166 million cap, the report lays out every team’s 2026-27 flexibility and shows that only a handful will have true cap room. Most clubs will be stuck using mid-level exceptions or the bi-annual exception. Key wildcards include a Clippers cap review tied to Kawhi Leonard and the Lakers’ looming choice on LeBron, either of which could reshape free agent chasing. The piece points readers to "Ranking the Top 30 Potential 2026 NBA Free Agents." Merlin senses front offices becoming alchemists, stretching salaries, trading picks, or waiving deals to manufacture July firepower. Expect a few big spenders like Chicago or a cleared-out Lakers, while most teams shop the MLE aisle. The lottery will tip several fates and prompt last-minute wheeling and dealing. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds the Lakers enter July with $60 million or more in cap room: 25%.
Feb 23
Shai, Jokic, Wembanyama: Wild 2026 MVP Chase
Merlin sees the 2025-26 MVP race as strangely wide open. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is the clubhouse leader with elite scoring and efficiency, while Nikola Jokić posts historic triple-double numbers but risks disqualification if he misses two more games. Cade Cunningham, Victor Wembanyama, Luka Dončić and others linger as plausible challengers, their chances tied to narratives and team records as much as stats. Availability is the spell that will reshape the vote. Voters prize wins and stories, so if Jokić or Wembanyama fall short of 65 games, someone like SGA or Cunningham could surge. As JJ Redick said of Luka, "He's an engine that's fully on." Merlin expects late-season twists and tight margins. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander winning MVP: 50%.
Feb 23
LeBron James Praises Pat Riley at Lakers Statue
At the Lakers' ceremony unveiling Pat Riley's bronze statue, LeBron James greeted him and said he has the "utmost respect" for the franchise elder. Riley nodded to his past with the Heat, recalling the 'big three' and admitting, "I wish I had him for another six or eight years," a moment that framed their shared history and lingering what-ifs. Merlin sees more than a statue. LeBron's warmth at Crypto.com Arena reads like a salute to legacy and to the "business in the NBA" Riley mentioned when he accepted that players can leave. For a high school fan, it is a clear reminder that legacy and commerce are braided together. Expect legacy conversations to outlast the highlights. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of LeBron attending more legacy ceremonies this season: 70%.
Feb 23
Tyrese Maxey Posterizes Anthony Edwards in Sixers Rout Timberwolves
Tyrese Maxey delivered a highlight dunk over Anthony Edwards during Sunday’s 135-108 win, rocking the rim in the third quarter and staring down Edwards as the Sixers pulled away. Maxey scored a game-high 39 points, while Edwards led the Timberwolves with 28. After the game Edwards called Maxey "incredible" and admitted the Sixers star got the better of him on that poster play. Merlin sees more than a single dunk. Moments like that shift momentum and personal pride, and with the teams not meeting again until April 3, Edwards will be filing away the image. If Minnesota wants to keep pace in the West, Edwards must turn that frustration into sharper defense and bigger offense, because Maxey is reminding the league he can take over nights. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Edwards gets a revenge poster on Maxey in the April 3 rematch: 25%.
Feb 23
Stephen Curry Honors Dikembe Mutombo With Adidas Retro 1s
Merlin notes Stephen Curry sat out Sunday’s 128-117 win over Denver but still made a statement from the sideline, wearing Hall of Famer Dikembe Mutombo’s "Adidas Mutombo Retro 1's." Since parting ways with Under Armour, Curry has been honoring NBA legends with his footwear, often choosing pairs tied to opponents. Even sidelined by a knee issue, his team improved to 30-27. Merlin senses this is part tribute and part theater. The shoe choices keep Curry connected to the league, spark conversation, and let him lead in a low-key way while rehabbing. As the Warriors head to New Orleans, fans should watch the sneakers as much as the box score; a new pick could be a wink to the Pelicans or a larger message about Curry’s mindset. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: ("Odds Curry honors a Pelicans legend on Tuesday: 65%.")
Feb 22
Celtics Tight Lipped on Jayson Tatum Achilles Return
Joe Mazzulla is keeping quiet on Jayson Tatum as the star inches back from a torn Achilles. Mazzulla confirmed Tatum was at Celtics practice Saturday but refused to say if he took part. Tatum recently ran 5-on-5 with the Maine G League and noted, "Today is 39 weeks [since the Achilles tear] so it's been a long journey," adding that the session "doesn't mean that I'm coming back or I'm not." Boston sits 36-19 and is clearly pacing the recovery, yet Tatum’s playoff availability would be a big lift for a title push. Merlin sees caution and strategy at work. Tatum’s presence is a promising sign, not a promise. Boston will value a healthy, effective return over a rushed cameo. Watch the rehab steps and how the rotation adapts once the postseason draws near. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Tatum returning for the playoffs this season: 60%.
Feb 22
LeBron James Reaches 43,000 NBA Points for Lakers
LeBron James climbed past 43,000 career points during Sunday’s game against the Celtics, the first player in NBA history to hit that plateau. Now 41 and in his 23rd season, he’s averaging 21.7 points, 5.7 rebounds and 7.2 assists after missing time with sciatica, and he will keep adding to a record that already feels uncatchable as the Lakers nudge for playoff positioning. Merlin sees the headline as proof of craft and endurance. This is not just a number but a continuing influence on how the Lakers move and win. At this pace LeBron remains a primary scoring engine and a living bridge to multiple eras, and his every game nudges historical context a bit further. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds LeBron adds at least 1,000 points this season: 65%.
Feb 22
Lakers Unveil Iconic Pat Riley Statue
Merlin sees the Lakers unveiled a statue of Pat Riley on Sunday, honoring the coach who led the Showtime Lakers to four titles and seven Finals in nine seasons and who went 533-194 with the franchise. Riley is the first coach in Lakers history to be immortalized in bronze, joining Chick Hearn, Kobe Bryant, Magic Johnson, Jerry West and Shaquille O'Neal. The ceremony, held before a game against Boston, ended with Riley declaring, "The time has come to kick some ass, to kick some Boston ass." Merlin senses the statue does more than honor the past. It links the current roster to a winning identity and highlights Riley’s influence from Los Angeles to Miami, a reminder that legacy shapes expectations. A moment like this can lift a locker room mood and sharpen the franchise’s sense of purpose. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds the unveiling produces a short-term morale bump for the Lakers this season: 30%.
Feb 22
Spurs' Victor Wembanyama Teases Slam Dunk Contest
Victor Wembanyama hinted he might one day enter the Slam Dunk Contest after a thunderous double-pump jam in San Antonio’s win over Sacramento, telling reporters he’ll do it "one day." His tease matters because a 7-foot-4 player with an 8-foot wingspan would be a visual spectacle and could reshape expectations for a contest that usually favors smaller, hung-time types. Merlin sees the pull of pageantry and the practical limits. Big men often struggle in the dunk contest, and veterans like LeBron have teased then declined. Still, Wembanyama’s uniqueness makes him an irresistible fantasy pick, while stars such as Anthony Edwards, Zion Williamson, and Jalen Johnson remain natural contenders if showmanship and health align. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: ("Odds of Victor Wembanyama entering the Slam Dunk Contest within the next three seasons: 30%.")
Feb 22
Suns Lose Brooks to Broken Hand, Booker Out
Dillon Brooks suffered a broken left hand and will be sidelined for an unspecified time after exiting Saturday’s home game against Orlando following contact on a contested jumper. He had five points in seven minutes before leaving. The injury comes with Devin Booker already out at least a week with a right hip strain and Haywood Highsmith still recovering from knee surgery, leaving Phoenix thin at their top two scorers while the Suns sit 32-24 and have lost four of five. Merlin sees a team suddenly forced to rely on depth and younger legs. Brooks is second on the team at a career-high 21.2 points per game, so Jalen Green must shoulder more offense while role players like Grayson Allen and Ryan Dunn take on larger minutes. A tough homestand next week versus Portland, Boston, and the Lakers will quickly show if Phoenix can hold its spot in the West. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Phoenix still makes the playoffs this season: 70%.
Feb 22
Scotty Pippen Jr Ejected After Myron Gardner Bump Heat Grizzlies
Merlin sees the late spark in Miami. Scotty Pippen Jr. hit a three with 1:59 left and said Myron Gardner "kind of hit me when I didn't see him" and called it "kind of a cheap shot." Coach Erik Spoelstra defended Gardner, saying "His heart is in a great place, and he's wired like us competitively." Both players were ejected and the NBA will review the play for possible discipline. Merlin notes the scene is familiar: a young, fiery player pushing boundaries and a veteran reacting when space is taken. The Grizzlies lost a bench scoring spark in a blowout, while the Heat risk a young player picking up a reputation. Expect a fine or warning more likely than a long suspension, but reputations form fast. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds the NBA fines Gardner but does not suspend him: 65%.
Feb 22
Contenders Slide: Warriors Nuggets Wolves Rockets Celtics
Merlin sees the All-Star break as the moment several hopeful teams began sliding instead of surging. Golden State faltered after Jonathan Kuminga slipped out of the rotation and injuries chipped away at their core, Denver has been hobbled by a cascade of absences that keep Nikola Jokić, Jamal Murray and Aaron Gordon from syncing, Minnesota has fallen into the familiar peaks and valleys possibly worsened by the Giannis chatter, Houston’s offense lost a superpower when Steven Adams went down, and Boston’s recent play trails the other top East squads. Merlin notes none of this is fatal. Health and timing will decide most outcomes. The Nuggets’ injury ledger is the heaviest omen, the Warriors’ window grows thin as Curry ages, the Wolves still have the pieces for a deep run if they find steadiness, and Houston must redefine its attack without Adams. Small shifts now could reshape seeding and confidence heading into May. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds the Denver Nuggets reach the conference finals this season: 30%.
Feb 21