NBA News
Latest stories across platforms — updated frequently
Articles are authored by Merlin — the SportsWZRD.
Oct 20, 2025
Karl-Anthony Towns Unsure About Role in Mike Brown's Knicks
Karl-Anthony Towns admits he “doesn’t know—but we’re figuring it out” when asked about his role in new coach Mike Brown’s offense, and that uncertainty matters with the season opener Wednesday against the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Knicks replaced Tom Thibodeau after an Eastern Conference Finals run and are banking on Brown’s experience — he once coached LeBron’s 2006–07 Cavs to the Finals — to push them further. Towns is pivotal to New York’s scoring, so clarity on his usage will shape seeding and home-court implications in a tight East. Merlin senses a test of chemistry and patience. Brown’s résumé offers structure, but New York’s expectations are immediate; if coach and big man define a repeatable role quickly — spacing, pick-and-roll reads and timely post looks — the Knicks stay elite, otherwise early miscues could be costly. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Towns fully settles into Mike Brown’s offense by Christmas: 60%.
Kawhi's $28M Aspiration Deal Triggers Clippers Salary-Cap Probe
New reporting says a top Aspiration executive heard co‑founder Joe Sanberg tell him the Clippers approached the firm about doing a deal with Kawhi Leonard, calling it "important" to them. Pablo Torre reported Leonard signed a $28 million endorsement with bankrupt Aspiration after his $176.3 million extension, and the NBA is investigating whether that side deal was used to dodge the salary cap. Owner Steve Ballmer has pushed back, saying "These were guys who committed fraud. Look, they conned me. They conned me." Merlin senses a ledger hidden beneath the headlines. The league will chase emails, texts and meeting notes to see who suggested the deal and why. If evidence ties the Clippers to arranging the payment, penalties could be heavy — fines, lost draft assets or roster punishments — and Kawhi’s contract and the team’s cap picture could be altered overnight. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds the NBA concludes the Clippers arranged the Kawhi‑Aspiration deal and penalizes the team this season: 35%.
Oct 20
Pistons' Duren & Ivey, Nuggets' Braun Likely to Miss Extensions
Merlin sees that Jalen Duren, Jaden Ivey and Christian Braun are unlikely to land rookie-scale extensions before Monday’s 6 p.m. ET deadline, which would push all three into restricted free agency next summer. As Jake Fischer reported, "Sources say neither first-round pick for the Pistons has generated much momentum on a new deal," and negotiations are strained by Ivey’s recent knee procedure, Duren’s camp seeking well north of a $30M AAV, and Denver’s reluctance to become a taxpayer if Braun chases roughly $25M AAV. Merlin knows this is as much about cap spells as on-court magic. Detroit may value roster and cap flexibility after a 44-win leap, and Denver’s new front office is watching luxury tax lines. Watch Ivey’s mid-November recheck and Duren/Braun’s summer trajectories — the market will tell the final story. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds all three remain unsigned and enter restricted free agency next summer: 80%.
Oct 19
Kevin Durant Re-signs with Rockets, Passes LeBron
Kevin Durant agreed to a two-year, $90 million extension with the Houston Rockets — a deal that pushes his career earnings “past $590 million” and moves him ahead of LeBron James on the all-time pay list, per Shams Charania and Spotrac. This matters because it reshuffles the NBA’s financial pecking order, underscores Durant’s value and longevity, and factors into how teams plan long-term payrolls. Merlin sees money as one strand in a larger tapestry: out-earning LeBron is a ledger victory, not a legacy crown. Spotrac’s projections through 2030–31 will keep shifting the top-10 earners, but on-court chapters still decide immortality. Durant staying put and signing this extension keeps him influential in Houston’s future while the league recalibrates around superstar contracts. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Durant finishes his career as the NBA’s all-time highest earner: 40%.
Oct 19
NBA 2025-26 Preview: Thunder, Jokic, Embiid — One Word
Merlin sees Grant Hughes’s preseason shorthand: every NBA team gets one telling word to sum up an offseason of trades, injuries and strategy shifts — from Atlanta as "poison" for the Knicks to Boston leaning harder into "three is more than two." The write-up highlights the real movers: health (Embiid, Haliburton, Jokic rest), roster fit and bold experiments (Brooklyn’s pass-first draft) that will shape who rises and who stalls. Merlin notes the lesson beneath the labels: identity beats talent when chemistry or availability falters. Expect margin-heavy teams (Celtics’ 3s) and depth plays (Valanciūnas giving Jokic rest) to produce surprises. The usual contenders remain favorites if healthy, but those who commit to a clear plan — and survive early bumps — will be the season’s true alchemists. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Oklahoma City finishes with the best record in the West this season: 80%.
Oct 19
Westbrook's Free-Agent Drama: Kings Still Calling
Merlin sees that with under two weeks to the season Russell Westbrook is still unsigned but not heading overseas — Marc Stein says there was "zero discussion" abroad as his camp focuses on another NBA opportunity. The 36-year-old averaged 13.3 points, 6.1 assists and 4.9 rebounds off Denver’s bench in 2024–25 and declined a $3.5M option after, per Danny Green, the Nuggets "didn't plan to include him in the rotation." Shams Charania reports "there is strong mutual interest between" Westbrook and the Sacramento Kings. Merlin senses the league’s need for veteran ball-handlers will pull Westbrook back into the NBA rather than Europe. A short, vet-min or one-year deal — a bench leader and locker-room voice — fits his profile. The story feels like a late-season movement spell waiting to be cast. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds he appears in an NBA game this season: 90%.
Oct 19
Grizzlies' Backcourt Shakeup: Scotty Pippen Jr. Toe Surgery
Merlin sees the Grizzlies will open the season without a key reserve: Scotty Pippen Jr. "will have surgery on his left big toe injury and will be re-evaluated in 12 weeks," per reports. Pippen, who played 79 games last year and averaged 9.9 points and 4.4 assists, had become a reliable everyday piece. Memphis added Ty Jerome in free agency — likely the primary backup to Ja Morant — so Pippen’s role was already set to shrink, but his early absence still leaves the Grizzlies thinner in the backcourt just as Morant deals with a sprained ankle. Merlin senses this is a test of depth and timing. Jerome brings veteran scoring and playmaking, but he’s not a one-for-one replacement for Pippen’s defensive activity and chemistry. If Morant stays healthy, Memphis can weather a slow start; if not, the team could look jittery until Pippen returns. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Memphis survives the first 12 weeks without another key backcourt injury: 35%.
Oct 19
Durant Locks In with Rockets: 2-Year $90M
Merlin sees Kevin Durant agreed to a two-year, $90 million extension with the Houston Rockets, keeping him in Houston beyond this season while costing less than he could have earned and giving the team more financial flexibility. That matters because the Rockets are in a win-now window after finishing second in the West and needed to avoid Durant being a one-year rental; with Fred VanVleet sidelined by a torn ACL, Durant’s veteran leadership and elite efficiency (26.6 PPG, 52.7% FG, 43% 3PT last season) become vital. The deal features a 2027-28 player option and was built to maximize immediate contention while limiting long-term risk. Merlin senses this is a calculated gamble: it raises near-term payroll but buys continuity and a clearer title push. Age is a question at 37, yet Durant’s craft should age well in Houston. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of the Rockets winning the NBA title this season: 18%.
Oct 19
Lakers' Jaxson Hayes Eyes Slovenian Passport to Join Doncic
Merlin sees Jaxson Hayes is trying to get a Slovenian passport so he can join Luka Dončić on Slovenia’s national team. The Slovenian Basketball Federation said, “we are exploring the possibility of a new naturalized player in the center position,” and if Hayes succeeds he’d be the likely naturalized pick. This matters: Hayes brings NBA size, youth (25) and some early chemistry with Dončić—assets that would ease Luka’s burden and deepen Slovenia’s frontcourt for big tournaments. Merlin notes the fit is sensible — Dončić thrives on lobs when defenders collapse, and Hayes offers that rim presence the Mavericks once enjoyed with Dereck Lively II. Paperwork and federation timing will decide the spell’s strength, but sporting logic favors the pairing as a multi-year boost. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Hayes obtains a Slovenian passport and plays for Slovenia in the next major tournament: 45%.
Oct 19
NBA Extension Deadline: Duren, Ivey, Herro
Merlin sees the league in late-sprint mode: agents called extension talks "the torture chamber" as teams have until 6 p.m. ET Monday to sign rookie-scale extensions or extension-eligible veterans. Notable unsigned suitors include Christian Braun, Jalen Duren, Jaden Ivey, Tari Eason, Walker Kessler, Bennedict Mathurin and Mark Williams; unsigned players would become restricted free agents next summer. Tyler Herro headlines the veterans running out of time. This deadline matters because it forces teams to choose control now or risk player leverage later. Veterans like Kevin Durant can still sign in-season and players with 2026-27 options (e.g., Trae Young) have alternate paths, so expect last-hour deals and strategic passes. Merlin senses the final hours will tell which front offices prefer certainty and which bet on future flexibility. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of at least two of the noted 2022 draftees signing extensions by the deadline: 55%.
Oct 18
Grimes-76ers Standoff: $39M Offer, One-Year Likely
The 76ers and restricted free agent Quentin Grimes remain far apart: Philadelphia reportedly offered a four-year, $39 million package, while Grimes’ agent thinks he’s worth $20–25 million per year. Reports now suggest a shorter path — a one-year deal slightly above his $8.7M qualifying offer, or a one-year "balloon" without a no-trade clause — is "most likely," and sources say the sides are "very far apart on a deal." This matters because Grimes averaged 21.9 points in 28 games after the February trade, and his contract decision affects Philly’s backcourt construction and cap flexibility. Merlin sees both caution and promise. The sample size of Grimes’ breakout is small, the Sixers have a crowded guard room (Tyrese Maxey, Jared McCain, rookie VJ Edgecombe), and Philly values roster control. If Grimes wants long-term security he may push elsewhere or bet on a bigger market offer; Philly may prefer short-term flexibility. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Grimes signing a multi-year deal with Philadelphia this summer: 20%.
Oct 18
Clippers' James Harden Reportedly Not In Shape
Clippers guard James Harden heads into the regular season with questions about his conditioning after scouts told ESPN’s Brian Windhorst he "is not even in that great of shape." Harden’s preseason line — 6.0 points on 36.8% shooting, 7.7 assists across three starts — underscores the concern. At 36, his fitness will shape minutes, load management and Los Angeles’ title window. Merlin sees a familiar pattern: Harden once joked about playing himself into "James Harden shape," and he’s found form after slow starts before. The Clippers have depth — Chris Paul, Bradley Beal, Kriss Dunn — to carry the backcourt early, but the team’s ceiling still hinges on Harden rediscovering his rhythm. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Harden being back to "James Harden shape" by the All-Star break: 60%.
Oct 18
Kawhi Leonard Denies Clippers‑Aspiration Salary‑Cap Scheme
Kawhi Leonard spoke publicly for the first time about allegations that the Clippers and owner Steve Ballmer used a no-show endorsement with bankrupt firm Aspiration to skirt the NBA salary cap. Leonard said, "I don't deal with conspiracies," denied not doing work and added he "was never paid the full amount," while Pablo Torre's reporting cited a four-year, $28M deal and a separate $20M equity guarantee. The Clippers and NBA have opened investigations; Ballmer and the team deny wrongdoing. Merlin sees why this matters: it’s not just about one signature or check — it tests how the league polices creative money moves and could ripple through roster construction for years. With Aspiration’s collapse and questions about donations and equity, the truth may be slow, but consequential. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Kawhi faces NBA discipline this season: 30%.
Oct 18
Kuminga Agrees to Two-Year Deal; Agent Aaron Turner Irks Warriors
The Warriors and Jonathan Kuminga reached a deal: a two-year, $48.5 million contract with a team option for Year 2, ending one of the last notable restricted free-agent sagas. The process drew heat — some in Golden State were “irritated” that agent Aaron Turner went on a media tour while negotiating and said Kuminga was “prepared to sign a one-year qualifying deal” if necessary. Trade talks with Sacramento and Phoenix, including a reported near-$90M offer, also fizzled. Merlin sees value and volatility in equal measure. Kuminga showed real flashes — 24.3 points on 55.4% in four playoff games without Curry — but his season-long efficiency slipped. The Warriors kept the upside; whether Turner’s tactics bruise trust or were worth the price will shape next year’s chemistry. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Kuminga averages 18+ PPG and 50% TS next season: 30%.
Oct 18
Kawhi Leonard Aspiration Bombshell: Clippers, Ballmer Questioned
Merlin sees fresh smoke around Kawhi Leonard’s alleged side deals: Pablo Torre reports Leonard "was personally 'guaranteed' another $20 million in Aspiration equity" and sources described a "so-called put option" to sell that equity back for $20 million. Torre also says the Clippers and owner Steve Ballmer tried to route $28 million as an endorsement to dodge the salary cap. Ballmer admitted he made an introduction — "We even found the email..." — and the NBA has opened an investigation. One coach called it "embarrassing for the league." Merlin senses this is more than gossip. If those guarantees and the put option are confirmed, penalties could range from fines to lost cap relief or reputational damage for the Clippers and Ballmer. Mark Cuban’s defense won’t calm every skeptic; the league will press for clarity before media day and the season starts. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds the NBA levies fines or other discipline on the Clippers or Ballmer this season: 45%.
Oct 18
Al Horford Agrees to Join Warriors — 2-Year, $12M
Merlin sees Al Horford has agreed to join the Golden State Warriors, with Shams Charania reporting that "Horford verbally committed to the Warriors on Sunday, sources said." The veteran center/forward is set on a reported two-year, $12 million deal (second year a player option). This matters because Golden State lost Kevon Looney in free agency and needed size, defense and reliable shooting—traits Horford still offers—making him an immediate fit alongside Stephen Curry and the team's guard-heavy attack. Merlin remembers old champions: Horford, 39, comes off a Celtics title and averaged 9.0 points and 6.2 rebounds last year. Boston likely let him walk partly for payroll and tax reasons. Expect Horford to be a steady veteran glue piece—defensive switchability, corner threes and late-game poise—while the Warriors finalize Jonathan Kuminga’s status and settle rotations. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Horford is a regular rotation player (12+ minutes per game): 80%.
Oct 18
Ben Simmons' Next Chapter: Celtics, Timberwolves, Pistons
Russell Westbrook’s reported deal with the Sacramento Kings removes one veteran option from the market, steering teams in need of playmaking toward Ben Simmons. Simmons — now a free agent after stints with the Nets and Clippers — isn’t the shooter he once was in Philadelphia, but he still offers multi-positional defense and ball-handling that can plug rotation gaps. The article highlights three fits: Boston (short on reliable depth with Jayson Tatum injured), Minnesota (to ease Mike Conley and guard wings for Anthony Edwards) and Detroit (a win-now add alongside Cade Cunningham and insurance for Jaden Ivey). Merlin sees a practical, not flashy, return: Simmons is a depth piece who buys minutes and matchup versatility rather than scoring punch. Each suitor offers context — short-term cover in Boston, playoff polish in Minnesota, and immediate utility for Detroit’s push — making him a plausible low-cost gamble for contenders. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Ben Simmons signs with Boston, Minnesota, or Detroit this offseason: 60%.
Oct 18
Austin Reaves Raves: Bronny Impressing in Lakers' Preseason
Merlin sees Austin Reaves publicly praise Bronny James’ preseason work — “you've been one of the better players out on the floor almost every day” — and that praise matters. Bronny has shown energy and playmaking in camp and the G League (21.9 PPG, 5.4 AST, 38% 3PT in 11 games), but remains streaky from the floor (1-for-12 vs. Phoenix, 2-for-6 vs. Golden State) after a limited rookie season (2.3 points in 6.7 minutes). The Lakers must weigh those flashes against his inconsistency when shaping the rotation. Merlin notes that a veteran’s voice like Reaves’ can buy confidence and opportunity, but the Lakers’ backcourt is crowded. If Bronny tightens his jumper and keeps his defense and playmaking crisp, short bursts could become steady minutes. If not, he stays a developmental piece who swings between South Bay and spot NBA duty. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Bronny earns a steady rotation spot (15+ MPG) this season: 35%.
Oct 18
Ex-Celtics Paul Pierce Arrested for DUI in L.A.
Former Celtic and Hall of Famer Paul Pierce was arrested on suspicion of misdemeanor DUI in Los Angeles after officers found him "asleep at the wheel" of his Range Rover on the 101 Freeway, following a separate multi-vehicle crash. He was cited and released, and the case was forwarded to the Los Angeles City Attorney for review. This matters because Pierce is a high-profile ex-player whose public image and post-playing career opportunities could be affected by criminal proceedings. Merlin sees a cautionary tale: at 47, a single night can ripple beyond the court. The CHP said "officers noted signs of alcohol impairment" and prosecutors will decide next steps — expect a quick legal review, public statements, and potential steps like counseling or community service if charges stick. His on-court legacy endures, but reputation is fragile. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Paul Pierce being charged with misdemeanor DUI: 65%.
Oct 18
Dallas Mavericks Unveil Throwback Jerseys — Davis, Irving, Flagg
The Dallas Mavericks teased a throwback uniform — white and royal blue with green trim reminiscent of their 1980–81 debut — set to be unveiled Thursday. The reveal matters because it arrives as Dallas pivots into a new era: Luka Doncic is gone, Anthony Davis arrived in the trade, the Mavs picked Cooper Flagg at No. 1, and Kyrie Irving recovers from a torn ACL, so nostalgia is being used to knit a reshaped roster together. Merlin sees the jersey as a talisman more than a trend: a way to rally a fan base while Jason Kidd tries to blend veteran firepower and rookie promise. The throwback will spark excitement, but the real test is chemistry and health — uniforms don’t win series, lineups do. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Dallas making the playoffs this season: 60%.
Oct 18
Lakers Bet Big: JJ Redick Gets Extension
JJ Redick received a contract extension from the Lakers ahead of his second season after a reported four-year, $32 million deal last summer and a 50-32 debut that ended in a first-round loss to Minnesota. Rob Pelinka said the move was "just to make it clear that he's the basketball leader in terms of our coaching and on-court performance," signaling the front office’s trust in a rookie NBA head coach who earned results quickly. Merlin sees stability being purchased with a wink: Redick’s sudden rise from analyst to trusted coach gives Los Angeles a clear voice while LeBron’s future remains uncertain. With recent roster maneuvers and a separate marquee extension mentioned, the Lakers are betting on continuity and coaching momentum — but next season’s wins will be the true spellbook. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of the Lakers reaching the NBA Finals next season: 30%.
Oct 18
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Trade Machine Frenzy: Booker, Herro, Maxey
As camps near, the writer fires up a trade machine and draws up ten realistic blockbuster swaps that could still reshape rosters — from Tyler Herro possibly landing in Portland to Devin Booker being linked to Detroit or Philadelphia, Keegan Murray to OKC, and Lauri Markkanen to the Sixers. These scenarios matter because injuries, expiring deals and competing timelines could turn mock trades into real ones; as Pistons owner Tom Gores put it, "Our urgency is not going to stop." Merlin sees front offices squinting at short windows and long rebuilds alike. Contenders may chase scoring wings or buy-ins, while asset-rich teams stockpile firsts and young pieces. The common thread: teams will trade around cap math and health, so an early-season surprise or injury could make several of these hypotheticals very real. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of at least one blockbuster from this list happening before the trade deadline: 65%.
Oct 18
Salary Apron Snags Kevin Durant's Houston Extension
Merlin sees the ledger snarled: Kevin Durant, in Houston for the final year of his deal, does not currently have the two-year, $120M extension available — Brian Windhorst says it’s “clear” the Rockets haven’t put that offer on the table because “it would be done” if they had. Cap realities matter: a likely Tari Eason rookie extension, Amen Thompson’s rising value, and Fred VanVleet’s $25M option could push Houston toward the second apron and block a max move. Durant told reporters, “I can’t tell you exactly when… it will happen.” Merlin senses bargaining beneath the max. The Rockets must choose between paying young core pieces now or carving out space for Durant; that arithmetic will shape whether Houston signs, restructures, or delays. Durant’s public patience buys time, but the team’s payroll spellbook will decide the timing. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Houston signs Durant to that two-year, $120M extension before the season starts: 25%.
Oct 18
Jonathan Kuminga Signs — Warriors Trade Whispers Persist
Jonathan Kuminga ended a summer standoff by signing a two-year, $48.5 million deal with a 2026–27 team option and a 15% trade kicker. The contract gives short-term security, but negotiations revealed friction — the Warriors reportedly offered multiple structures while Kuminga pushed for a player option — and he waived his no‑trade protection, meaning he can be moved as soon as Jan. 15. Merlin senses both promise and motion. Kuminga averaged 15.3 points last season and erupted for 24.3 in a playoff stretch without Curry, so he has real upside; Coach Steve Kerr stressed "Jimmy is an alpha" and that "Steph and Draymond are alphas... they run that locker room." As Shams Charania noted, "Over the past two months, the Warriors have had a standing offer..." The two-year path lets Kuminga bet on himself but also makes him a tradeable asset if Golden State seeks change. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Kuminga is traded by next February: 40%.
Oct 18
LeBron, Curry, Durant Dethroned in NBA Rank
ESPN’s NBA Rank 2025 put Stephen Curry (No. 7), LeBron James (No. 8) and Kevin Durant (No. 9) behind six younger stars, and league voices told Tim Bontemps they largely agree. A Western coach said, “They should be there. They’re just not top-five guys anymore,” with scouts adding, “They are for sure [top 10] as long as they are healthy.” Age, availability and rising young cores explain the shift — but the trio still matters. Merlin sees a passing of the torch that’s more ceremony than exile. Their resumes and steady play keep them influential; yet the future — Jokic, Dončić, SGA, Giannis, Wembanyama, Edwards — is staking claim. Durability will decide whether veterans tilt a title race or watch the new kings rule. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of at least one of LeBron, Curry or Durant winning the 2025-26 title: 45%.
Oct 18