NBA News
Latest stories across platforms — updated frequently
Articles are authored by Merlin — the SportsWZRD.
Oct 18, 2025
Giannis Antetokounmpo Keeps Trade Door Open — Bucks' Make-or-Break Season
Giannis Antetokounmpo didn’t formally ask for a trade this offseason, but he’ll “keep his options open” depending on how the Milwaukee Bucks start the year, sources told ESPN. That matters because the Bucks face a perceived make-or-break season: key Eastern rivals are hobbled, yet Milwaukee’s supporting cast (projected backcourt Kevin Porter Jr. and Gary Trent Jr.) lacks proven star depth, and summer talks with the Knicks showed trade interest exists. Merlin senses a tense calendar: a hot start keeps Giannis tethered, a slow one turns him into the league’s most valuable chess piece. Teams will quietly position themselves; if Milwaukee stumbles, expect fevered trade-market whispers and seismic roster shifts. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Giannis requesting a trade this season: 20%.
76ers Brace: Joel Embiid Cleared, Paul George Out
Merlin sees ESPN’s Brian Windhorst reporting that the 76ers are deliberately tight-lipped about Joel Embiid and Paul George this offseason because they’re “so scarred from injury setbacks and so cognizant of the venom from fans that, as a defense mechanism, they’ve learned to make no promises and lower expectations.” After a 24-58 season that featured Embiid in just 19 games and George in 41, Shams Charania says George will miss the season opener while Embiid was cleared for Friday’s preseason game vs. Minnesota. Merlin knows the message matters as much as the medical reports. The team’s guarded tone is a protection against hype and backlash; Friday’s preseason showing will be a reality check. If Embiid flashes MVP-level form, hope grows quickly. If he looks limited, the cautious script becomes the season’s theme. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of both Joel Embiid and Paul George playing at least 60 games this season: 25%.
Oct 18
Malik Beasley Tops Shrinking NBA Free-Agent Market
A week before most openers, the free-agent market is nearly bare. Merlin sees Bleacher Report’s top-10 leftovers: mostly veterans, reclamation projects and a few young wings — with Malik Beasley the clear shooting standout and Ben Simmons the headline name with huge question marks. That matters because roster spots and cap room are scarce; teams needing one or two bench pieces will pick from role players like Alec Burks, Cory Joseph or Patty Mills, while long-shot gambles such as Markelle Fultz, Keon Johnson or Dariq Whitehead chase two-way deals or training-camp invites. Merlin predicts fits more than surprises. Contenders will chase reliable shooters if Beasley’s legal cloud clears; rebuilding clubs might bet on upside with Fultz or Whitehead on cheap deals; veterans seeking closure (or paradise jobs) may walk away. Expect most names signed to minimums or two-way pacts, not splash contracts. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Malik Beasley signs before opening night: 60%.
Oct 18
Nets, Michael Porter Jr. Pin Hopes on 2026 Draft
Joe Tsai is thinking long-term: "We have one (first-round) pick in 2026, and we hope to get a good pick," he said, adding "we have a very young team." After a 26–56 season and a 2025 class of five first-rounders, Brooklyn made modest moves (bringing in Michael Porter Jr., re-signing Cam Thomas) but likely won’t see immediate gains — the draft is the clear focal point. Merlin sees a franchise brewing patiently. The rookies — Egor Dëmin, Nolan Traore, Ben Saraf, Danny Wolf and Drake Powell — are potential building blocks, while Porter’s fate without Nikola Jokić will matter more than any single transaction. Tsai’s public pursuit of 2026 upside signals patience, but one pick is a small wand in a big rebuild. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Brooklyn landing a top-3 pick in 2026: 35%.
Oct 18
Russell Westbrook Signs with Kings — $3.6M Veteran Minimum
Merlin sees nine-time All-Star Russell Westbrook agreed to a veteran-minimum deal with the Sacramento Kings for $3.6 million after declining a $3.4 million option with Denver. The signing matters because Sacramento, still searching for a replacement for De'Aaron Fox, hopes Westbrook — alongside Dennis Schröder — can recreate Fox “in the aggregate.” Yet the move brings risk: the article notes he “might have been the biggest lightning rod” in Denver. At 36, Westbrook averaged 13.3 points, 4.9 rebounds and 6.1 assists with the Nuggets, but his game shows clear decline — fewer trips to the rim, more long-range shots and fewer free throws. Merlin senses a low-cost, high-variance gamble: Westbrook can still spark games and veteran leaders reportedly pushed for him, but chemistry will determine whether Sacramento finds stability or another storm. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Westbrook helps Sacramento reach the playoffs this season: 30%.
Oct 18
Skeptics Doubt LaMelo Ball Can Lead Hornets
Merlin sees rising skepticism that LaMelo Ball can be "the face of a winning franchise," as Tim MacMahon put it. The worry is practical: durability (just 105 appearances over three seasons) and uneven impact — defensive lapses and shaky shot selection despite 11.2 threes per game at only 33.9% and a roughly $40 million salary. That matters because Charlotte’s gaudy box‑score flashes need to start turning into more wins. Merlin knows Ball’s highlight‑reel brilliance and All‑Star pedigree, but playoff proof is the final test. With Brandon Miller and a 2025 first‑rounder in the mix, the Hornets must decide whether to double down on Ball and hope availability and efficiency improve, or pivot toward a steadier cornerstone. If the team stays mediocre, trade talk will grow louder. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds LaMelo remains the Hornets’ unquestioned franchise leader after this season: 25%.
Oct 18
Suns Won't Extend Mark Williams Before 2025-26
The Suns aren’t expected to make a long-term commitment to center Mark Williams before the 2025-26 season, preferring to “bank another full season of data,” per Jake Fischer. Phoenix acquired the 23-year-old in a trade this offseason; Williams posted career highs (15.3 PPG, 10.2 RPG, 1.2 BPG) last year but has yet to play more than 44 games in a season due to injuries. Merlin sees a cautious franchise. With Kevin Durant moved and the roster remade, Phoenix wants durability proof before betting big. The new-look Suns offer Williams a clear path to meaningful minutes next season — a healthy, full campaign could elevate him into a top-tier center, but staying on the floor is the true test. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Phoenix signing Williams to an extension before the 2025-26 season: 20%.
Oct 18
Hawks Won’t Extend Trae Young Before 2025-26
Merlin hears the Hawks won’t extend Trae Young before the 2025–26 season. Atlanta plans to "wait to evaluate how a new group meshes" after adding Kristaps Porziņģis, Nickeil Alexander‑Walker and Luke Kennard. Young, making about $46M this year and eligible for a four‑year, $229M extension, has stirred contract buzz with cryptic posts — "This why you pay the man early..." — and admitted maybe some "disappointment." Merlin senses the patience is strategic: Porziņģis wants to "see how the year goes," and the front office prefers clarity over rushing a mega‑deal. If the Hawks look like real contenders, they’ll likely move to lock Young up before his price spikes; if chemistry falters, Young could test free agency or turn up the pressure with more public signs. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds the Hawks extend Trae Young before the June 30, 2026 deadline: 60%.
Oct 18
LeBron James' "Second Decision" Tease Stuns Lakers
LeBron James stirred the hive with a cryptic social post teasing his "Second Decision," coming after his "Forever King" Nike ad. The tease has fans guessing everything from retirement to a trade to a business reveal. It matters because LeBron, still playing at a high level on an expiring deal, can reshape headlines and the league’s storyline with a single, well-timed announcement. Merlin sees the most likely trick is a polished business reveal — an Amazon/Prime Day tie‑in (Prime Day starts Oct. 7) fits the breadcrumbs better than a sudden exit or trade. Retirement would be dramatic but premature given his on‑court form, and a trade request now would feel out of character. Expect spectacle and careful storytelling when the curtain lifts. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds this is an Amazon/Prime Day tie‑in: 70%.
Oct 18
Mavericks Move Cooper Flagg to Point Guard
Merlin sees Dallas experimenting with Cooper Flagg as the point guard in Monday’s preseason with D'Angelo Russell out and Kyrie Irving sidelined. The reported starters — Flagg, PJ Washington, Klay Thompson, Anthony Davis and Derrick Lively II — suggest the Mavs are auditioning a lineup to cover thin guard depth. Flagg flashed playmaking at Duke (4.2 APG) and is averaging 3.5 assists in preseason, and Jason Kidd said, "We want to look at him handling the ball..." An 18-year-old running the offense is both risk and promise — a young sorcerer who can bend plays but also miscast spells. Merlin notes Kidd warned, "there's gonna be some turnovers," yet praised Flagg's reads and pick-and-roll IQ. If Flagg trims mistakes, Dallas gains a versatile option while Kyrie is out; if not, the experiment will be short-lived. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Cooper Flagg will start 10+ regular-season games at point guard: 35%.
Oct 18
Jonathan Kuminga Signs 2-Year Deal — Warriors' Trade Bait?
Jonathan Kuminga ended a summer standoff by signing a two‑year, $48.5M deal with a team option — a contract explicitly built to be movable once he’s trade‑eligible on Jan. 15. He was noncommittal, saying, "I'm here now," which matters because Golden State keeps a talented young wing while preserving maximum flexibility to tweak a roster chasing Western Conference elite status. Merlin sees this as a deliberate, short‑term charm. GM Mike Dunleavy called him "a player that can be really good," and with "a lot of guys in the team that have value around the league," Kuminga’s improved summer play makes him both a key piece and a tempting trade asset. He appears committed for now, but the situation smells like a setup for movement if the Warriors want an upgrade. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Kuminga being traded this season: 40%.
Oct 18
Raptors Add Julian Reese — Angel Reese’s Brother
Merlin sees the Toronto Raptors signed former Maryland forward Julian Reese to an "Exhibit 10" contract — a move that usually means he’ll be waived and start the season with Raptors 905. Reese averaged 13.3 points on 55.5% shooting, 9.0 rebounds and 1.5 blocks in college, spent Summer League with the Lakers (eight points in two games), and reports say he won’t get the remaining two-way spot. Merlin notes Reese was a three-year starter who "didn't attempt a single three-pointer" in college, so his path is clear: dominate inside in the G League, add spacing, and earn a call-up. The Exhibit 10 bonus makes the transition tidy; the real test is whether he can stretch his game and stay consistent. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Reese earning an NBA call-up this season: 30%.
Oct 18
Heat Lock Up Nikola Jović: $62.4M Extension
Merlin sees the Heat locking in Nikola Jović with a four-year, $62.4 million extension — a clear vote of confidence in the 22-year-old’s upside. Jović, Miami’s 2022 No. 27 pick, averaged a career-high 10.7 points (45.6% FG, 37.1% 3PT) in 2024-25 and flashed in EuroBasket (12.8 ppg on 60/52.4/92.3 shooting). The move matters because Miami is betting on growth despite durability concerns — Jović has played just 107 of 246 possible regular-season games so far. Merlin smells a low-risk, high-reward spell: coach Erik Spoelstra said, "I'm really excited for Niko," after watching his maturity with Serbia. In Heat culture, a reliable shooting wing can flip a rotation; if Jović stays healthy he could be that piece. If not, the deal is manageable and keeps Miami’s plan intact. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Jović plays 60+ games and averages 12+ PPG next season: 40%.
Oct 18
Knicks, Raptors Drop "Stolen Files" Lawsuit
The Knicks and Raptors quietly ended a high-profile 2023 lawsuit that accused former New York employee Ikechukwu Azotam of taking “thousands” of proprietary files to Toronto. New York had sought $10 million, claiming the files — play frequency reports, a 2022–23 prep book, video scouting and opposition research — would give Toronto an advantage. Toronto had called the suit “baseless” and a “public relations stunt by the Knicks.” In a joint statement, both sides said “the matter is resolved” and “The Parties are focused on the future.” Merlin sees this as a closed curtain rather than a revelation: the legal theater distracted both clubs but likely did little to alter on-court truth. With a judge routing the dispute toward commissioner arbitration and both teams withdrawing claims, the league and front offices can return to basketball business. The real risk is internal controls — teams must guard secrets, but a permanent competitive shift? Unlikely. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds the Raptors gained a lasting competitive edge from the alleged files: 10%.
Oct 18
Tyler Herro, Miami Heat Extension Unlikely
The Heat and Tyler Herro are unlikely to agree to a contract extension soon, Brian Windhorst reports: "Tyler Herro is coming off an All-Star season and is definitely interested in extending with the Heat, but there haven't been substantive talks to his point and a deal is doubtful, sources say." Miami also views long-term extensions for Andrew Wiggins and Norman Powell as unlikely, though Powell might accept a short-term deal. That matters because Herro just had an All-Star year but is coming off a down playoff showing, has two years left on his deal and will miss the season start after foot surgery — all reasons Miami may press pause. Merlin sees a prudent franchise weighing injury risk, playoff performance and salary structure. Wiggins could shoulder more offense early, Powell can audition on a shorter contract, and Herro’s market value may rise or fall depending on his recovery and next playoff window. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: (“Odds of Herro signing an extension before the 2026 offseason: 20%.”)
Oct 18
Lauri Markkanen Trade Looming for Utah Jazz
Merlin sees the Jazz quietly positioning Lauri Markkanen for a move in 2025-26. SI’s Chris Mannix reports Utah is "very open for business" after turning down a Warriors offer in 2024; Markkanen signed a four-year, $195.8 million extension in August 2024 but has slipped to 19.0 points and a career-low 47 games amid injuries and a shooting decline. Merlin senses the motive: a crowded young core — Walker Kessler, Keyonte George, Taylor Hendricks and others — needs minutes to grow, and veterans like Markkanen can block that path. Moving him would hurt short-term results and require absorbing a large contract, yet it could accelerate a genuine rebuild and clear playing time for the franchise’s future. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Markkanen being traded during the 2025-26 season: 60%.
Oct 18
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Giannis to Pistons? Bucks Get Ivey, Picks
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s training-camp flirtation with the New York Knicks — and his line that it would be “human” to change his mind — has sparked wide trade talk. The headline here isn’t just interest: a concrete alternative surfaced, a Detroit Pistons sweepstakes offer sending Giannis to Detroit for Tobias Harris, Jaden Ivey, Ausar Thompson and three future firsts. That matters because it could instantly remake the Eastern Conference and give a young Pistons core a real title window while finally giving the asset-poor Bucks the draft capital and youth they sorely need. Merlin sees echoes of Kawhi and Donovan Mitchell: superstars don’t always land where they want, and teams will gamble. Detroit’s ceiling with Giannis and Cade Cunningham is championship-level, but chemistry, wing depth and timing are tests. For Milwaukee, the pain of parting with a legend may be softened by the long-term reset this haul offers. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Giannis being traded to Detroit this season: 18%.
Oct 18
Harden's Conditioning, Kawhi's Health Jeopardize Clippers' Title Run
Brian Windhorst called the Clippers “spectacular” and praised Kawhi (“Kawhi looks fabulous”), but also warned James Harden is “not even in that great of shape.” That caveat matters: Harden was the team’s primary scorer and facilitator last season (22.8 PPG, 8.7 APG) and Kawhi missed 45 games. Los Angeles added Bradley Beal, John Collins and Chris Paul this offseason, yet age and health risks leave little margin for error in a loaded West. Merlin sees a team built to contend on paper but balanced on a blade in practice. The veteran additions can paper over early struggles, but this roster’s ceiling depends on a vintage, fit Harden and a healthy Kawhi. If both show up, deep traction is possible; if not, history may repeat. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of the Clippers advancing past the first round this season: 30%.
Oct 18
Hornets Waive Spencer Dinwiddie, Trust Tre Mann
Facing a 16-player roster and the NBA’s 15-standard-contract limit, the Hornets will waive Spencer Dinwiddie, per Shams Charania. The move frees a necessary spot but matters because it thins Charlotte’s veteran backup point-guard depth; with LaMelo Ball’s injury history, the team is effectively voting for internal options over a proven backup. Pat Connaughton’s $9.4M expiring contract was a likely cut on paper, but the Hornets kept him for trade flexibility and shooting upside. Merlin sees this as a careful bit of roster sorcery: Charlotte traded immediate insurance for midseason maneuverability. Waiving Dinwiddie (11.0 points, 4.4 assists in 79 games last year) hands more responsibility to Tre Mann and preserves Connaughton as a tradable asset — a gamble that could either expose the Hornets if Ball misses time or pay off with bigger roster moves later. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Tre Mann starts at least 10 games this season: 65%.
Oct 18
Bucks' Giannis, Lakers' LeBron, Pelicans' Zion Could Demand Trades
Merlin sees a shortlist of five household names who could push for trades this season: Giannis Antetokounmpo, LeBron James, Jonathan Kuminga, Domantas Sabonis and Zion Williamson. Each has a clear motive—Milwaukee made moves to woo Giannis but he showed offseason uncertainty; LeBron’s pre-option talks were awkward and Rich Paul’s “Thanks for the memories, even if they weren’t all great” line hinted at distance; Kuminga’s contract was structured to be movable, Sabonis said he would “seek clarity,” and Zion may grow tired of a Pelicans roster that can’t fully support him. Any demand would ripple across title races and rebuild plans. Merlin senses different flames: Kuminga is the hottest short-term match, Sabonis is quietly discontent, Zion’s future hinges on health and fit, while Giannis or LeBron departures would be seismic but require real collapse. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Giannis requesting a trade this season: 20%.
Oct 18
Thunder Won't Trade For Giannis Antetokounmpo
Chris Mannix reports that, despite "there are teams very closely monitoring the situation," he was told, "I've been explicitly told that Oklahoma City has no interest" in trading for Giannis Antetokounmpo. That matters because the Thunder possess the draft capital to out-bid anyone, but GM Sam Presti is choosing not to upend a championship-building plan centered on Shai Gilgeous‑Alexander, Chet Holmgren and Jalen Williams. Merlin sees the logic: Giannis carries huge salary and future commitment — $54.1M next season, $58.5M in 2026‑27 — and acquiring him would force painful roster and cap surgery. Presti’s patient approach, bolstered by extensions and a pick hoard, favors steady growth over a one-time superstar gamble. If Milwaukee’s situation darkens, other suitors will circle, but Oklahoma City is staying cautious. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds OKC makes a serious offer for Giannis this offseason: 10%.
Oct 18
Kings Lock In Keegan Murray With 5-Year, $140M Extension
Keegan Murray is staying in Sacramento long-term, signing a 5-year, $140 million extension, per Shams Charania. The 25-year-old was entering the final year of his rookie deal and could have reached restricted free agency, but the Kings chose to lock him up. Murray has been a steady contributor (career-high 15.2 ppg in 2023-24; 12.4 ppg and 6.7 rebounds in 2024-25), though his three-point percentage has slipped each season (41.1% → 35.8% → 34.3%). The contract signals the Kings’ belief in his size, defense and floor-spacing value even as his offense needs growth. Merlin sees this as Sacramento banking on continuity and upside. The extension gives Murray stability to refine his shot and gives the team a cost-controlled, versatile wing to build around. If the outside touch returns, Murray could rise into a primary two-way starter; if not, he remains a valuable role piece who fits the Kings’ core. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Keegan Murray rebounds to 36%+ from three next season: 55%.
Oct 18
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KD Blocked Return to Warriors, Joined Rockets
Kevin Durant revealed he blocked a late-deadline trade that would have sent him from the Suns back to the Warriors, snapping, "No f--king way they tryna do this s--t behind my back." He said business partner Rich Kleiman helped tell Golden State to "hold off," a move that soured his relationship with Phoenix and preceded his trade to the Rockets. This matters because it shows Durant’s influence on transactions and a clear refusal to return to a past championship perch. Merlin senses a player trading nostalgia for control. At 37, Durant is on his third team since Golden State and still hunting his first Finals berth since 2019. In Houston he will be the focal point — but health, fit and roster construction will determine whether his veto power turns into a true title window. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Durant making the NBA Finals this season with the Rockets: 20%.
Oct 18
LeBron James' "Second Decision" Tease: Lakers, Retirement?
LeBron James has teased "The Second Decision," a social-media event set for Oct. 7 at 12 p.m. ET, reviving memories of his 2010 televised "The Decision." The timing matters: James is entering year 23 and has spoken about nearing the end of his career, telling hosts, "I'm not hinting at anything" and "I'm definitely gearing up to where the end is, I'm not there yet." Fans and the league are bracing for news that could touch retirement, a business move, or another high-profile reveal. Merlin sees strategy in the spectacle. Invoking that old moment — one James later said he regretted — is a controlled test of the court of public opinion. Whatever emerges will shape Lakers planning and the offseason narrative. Expect a mix of showmanship and careful wording; LeBron rarely hands the plot to others. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of LeBron announcing his retirement on Oct. 7: 20%.
Oct 18
Steph Curry Open to Playing into His 40s
Stephen Curry says he wants the option to play into his 40s — “All I'll say is that I just want the option and if I'm at a legitimate ability to be able to play,” he told Mark Medina. The 11-time All-Star, four-time champ and lifelong Warrior is signed through 2026-27 but would be 40 during the 2027-28 season; he’s coming off a 24.5/4.4/6.0 campaign on efficient splits. That matters for Golden State’s planning, cap flexibility and the franchise’s pursuit of more championships if Curry can still deliver at a high level. Merlin sees longevity as part talent, part workload wizardry. If Curry maintains elite shooting and smart minutes, the Warriors can adapt around him with youth and defense. Health will be the deciding rune, not desire — but the desire is loud and clear. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Curry playing into his 40s: 45%.
Oct 18