NBA News
Latest stories across platforms — updated frequently
Articles are authored by Merlin — the SportsWZRD.
Dec 18, 2025
Klay Thompson Trade Talks Ignite Mavericks Market
Merlin hears the Mavericks may shop veteran wing Klay Thompson as the Feb 5 trade deadline nears. ESPN reports co interim general managers Michael Finley and Matt Riccardi will "explore" his market. Thompson "wants to play for a contender" but he is owed over $17 million next season, which complicates deals. The 35 year old five time All Star and four time champion has cooled in Dallas, averaging about 11 points and shooting a career worst 37 percent this season, though he has hit 40.7 percent from three over the past month. Merlin notes Dallas sits 10 17 and faces roster uncertainty with injuries, so moving Thompson for salary relief or a better fit makes sense if a team like the Lakers can make the math work. His veteran shooting and playoff pedigree still appeal, so he is trade bait, not a lock to move. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Klay Thompson being traded before Feb 5: 40%.
LeBron James and Luka Doncic Must Fix Lakers Defense
JJ Redick has asked for more defensive effort from LeBron James and Luka Dončić, according to comments Dončić made to reporters. The Lakers sit 18 and 7 and look potent on offense with Dončić averaging 34.7 points 8.8 assists and 8.7 rebounds, and a 7 and 2 record with LeBron back after missing 14 games with sciatica. Yet Los Angeles ranks 20th in defensive rating, and that gap will be exposed against elite Western teams like Denver Oklahoma City San Antonio Houston and Minnesota. Merlin sees a brilliant offense that cannot carry every playoff series alone. Redick asking for "more defensive effort" is a call for clearer rotations and harder help defense. If LeBron can conserve energy and the team commits to effort and communication, the Lakers can climb the standings. Their quick road test in Utah will reveal how serious the fix is. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of the Lakers finishing in the West top four this season: 35%.
Dec 18
Suns Guard Dillon Brooks Ejected After LeBron James Clash
Dillon Brooks was ejected after a late altercation with LeBron James in Sunday’s Los Angeles Lakers and Phoenix Suns game, picking up a second technical with 12.2 seconds left after getting in James' face. Brooks, who had just hit a clutch three, slammed James as "a social media junkie" and argued the contact "should've been an offensive foul," though the NBA Last Two Minutes report said James' contest did not warrant a foul because Brooks extended his leg. The Lakers held on for a 116 114 win after James made two of three free throws. Merlin sees this as another episode in a long simmering rivalry that began in Memphis. Brooks thrives on provocation and it can spark momentum or self harm for his team. James defused the heat with, "I just like to compete." Their next meeting will test whether Brooks' edge wins games or costs them more. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Brooks drawing another technical or ejection in the next Suns Lakers game: 35%.
Dec 17
Kevin Durant Declares He's At The Top, Rockets Last Stop
Kevin Durant told Unguarded he is "at the top," saying he can "relate to the Michael Jordans, to Kobes, LeBrons, Wilts" and that he has "mastered the game." At 37 he is averaging 24.8 points with the Rockets sitting 16 7 in the West, and Durant called Houston the "last stop" while admitting things can change. The statement is Durant staking a claim to his place among the all time greats while still carrying a contender. Merlin sees a veteran reminding the world who he is and what he aims for. The words are part confidence and part legacy work. If Durant stays healthy and the Rockets keep climbing, his claim will feel earned. If not, it will read like a last proud echo. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Kevin Durant retiring as a Rocket this decade: 70%.
Dec 17
Martha Stewart: Knicks Star Jalen Brunson Broke My Toe
Martha Stewart revealed that Knicks guard Jalen Brunson accidentally stepped on and broke her toe during New York's 138 135 overtime loss to Indiana in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals. Stewart told Jimmy Fallon "I have the Brunson fracture. He stepped on my big toe" and said Brunson signed a basketball for her grandchild after the tumble. Merlin sees a quaint courtside mishap that says more about arena chaos than team health. Brunson has been the engine, averaging 28.8 points and 6.4 assists while the Knicks have gone 18 7 and even won the NBA Cup. The toe tale will make headlines, but Brunson's on court work is the story that will shape New York's season. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of the Knicks reaching the NBA Finals this season: 35%.
Dec 17
Kyrie Irving Surprises Mavericks With Golf Carts
Kyrie Irving surprised his Dallas teammates by gifting them golf carts, a video showed Cooper Flagg and Klay Thompson taking them for a test drive, and Irving said he "would be shipping the carts to their house." Irving remains sidelined recovering from a torn ACL and has not played this season as the Mavericks sit 10 to 17, though they have won five of their last seven games and Flagg posted the first 40 point game in his career in a 140 to 133 overtime loss to Utah. Merlin senses this is more than a holiday stunt. A sidelined star who stays involved with gestures and leadership can keep a young locker room steady while healing. If Dallas keeps building on recent momentum and Irving returns healthy, the team could turn curiosity into contention, but timing and recovery will decide how high they climb. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Kyrie returns to play this season and helps Dallas make the playoffs: 35%.
Dec 17
Kevin Durant Blames Curry and Lillard in All Star Game
Kevin Durant told Fred VanVleet’s Unguarded podcast that he partly blames Stephen Curry and Damian Lillard for the All Star Game’s slide, saying "I'm blaming Steph, I'm blaming Steph. It's Steph's fault. Because he come out there and shoot from half court...I'm blaming Dame too." Durant framed it lightly while pointing to a larger issue of low effort, loose defense and spectacle shots that have turned the event into pure entertainment. The league is trying a three team USA versus World round robin at the Intuit Dome on Feb 15 to freshen the product. Merlin sees the All Star Game as a glittering curtain show. Format tweaks may add intrigue for a night, but players must care for the spell to break. Expect flashes of brilliance, not a defensive revolution. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: "Odds the All Star Game shows noticeably better defense this year: 20%."
Dec 17
Ivica Zubac Trade Interest Grows, Clippers Resist
Merlin sees teams circling Clippers center Ivica Zubac as Los Angeles stumbles. Zach Lowe said "the Clippers have shoved away people calling, because the vultures are circling with Zubac." At 6 20 and 14th in the West, the Clippers have resisted offers for a 28 year old who averages 16.2 points, 11.5 rebounds and shoots 61.3 percent. Zubac would be a difference maker for contenders. Merlin senses the club is holding tight for now, treating Zubac like a lighthouse amid the fog. As the Feb 5 trade deadline nears the front office could soften to gather youth or picks, and teams that need interior toughness will keep knocking until the price climbs. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds the Clippers trade Zubac before Feb 5: 40%.
Dec 17
Lakers Tease 3 and D Upgrade For Luka Doncic
Merlin sees the Lakers as cautious hunters at the trade deadline. With a core of Luka Dončić, LeBron James and Austin Reaves, Los Angeles is unlikely to trade all its best pieces for a superstar. As Zach Lowe put it, "There's been this dichotomy" between standing pat and wiring the roster for a megadeal. Marc Stein adds the team prefers a young 3 and D player like Keon Ellis rather than an expensive veteran such as Herb Jones, and team voices say patience could pay off. Merlin senses logic in waiting. JJ Redick has "really got on us" defensively, and the front office may learn more about needs as the season unfolds. New ownership wants to maximize the window, so a measured move for a shooter or defender makes more sense than a panic trade. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds the Lakers acquire a young 3 and D piece by the deadline: 45%.
Dec 17
Knicks Beat Spurs Hang NBA Cup Banner
The Knicks won the midseason NBA Cup but management has opted not to immortalize the feat with a banner. For a franchise still marked by the long drought since 1973 and years of public humiliation, many argue the Cup is a meaningful sign of recovery and fan endurance. As one fan put it, "We here." J Ellis said, "I would absolutely hang the banner." Merlin sees the victory over the Spurs, the game plan tweaks by Mike Brown and the way New York handled Victor Wembanyama as proof of real progress. It is not a championship yet, but it is a high leverage win that can reset expectations and stitch up old wounds. Hanging the banner would tell fans they have moved from survival to revival. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of the Knicks hanging an NBA Cup banner this season: 60%.
Dec 17
Knicks Won NBA Cup But Skip MSG Banner
The Knicks will not hang a banner at Madison Square Garden for their 2025 NBA Cup title. Ian Begley said the club has "bigger goals in mind" and does not want to "diminish the accomplishment." They will celebrate with fans before Friday's game against the 76ers. The Cup came with a 124 to 113 win over the Spurs. Merlin sees a team deliberate in its climb. Jalen Brunson was Cup MVP with 25 points and eight assists and OG Anunoby scored 28, proof the Knicks can beat top opponents. Unlike the Lakers and Bucks, New York views the Cup as a step toward an NBA title. At 18 7 and near the top of the East, the trophy may fuel a push or end up a warm up. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of the Knicks winning the NBA championship this season: 22%.
Dec 17
Chris Paul Snubbed at Clippers Halloween Party
Merlin sees Chris Paul trying to stitch the Clippers back together and finding the threadbare edges. His suite invites and a Halloween party meant to build culture drew only a few teammates — "no one came" — and that isolation helped set the stage for Los Angeles to part ways with him on Dec 3 after just 16 appearances as the team sank to a 6 20 record. Frank and staff reportedly praised Paul for the effort, and Paul says he is "at peace" even while posting cryptic messages. Merlin senses a clash of leadership styles more than a single blunder. Paul did try to lead by example — "I'm going to help you build some culture. I'll bring guys over to my house. Let's work out together. Let's have a Halloween party" — yet the gesture failed to bind the group. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: (Odds of Chris Paul signing with another NBA team this season: 40%.)
Dec 17
Lakers Hoarding 2026 Pick To Land Giannis Antetokounmpo
The Lakers are reportedly holding onto their 2026 first round pick as a possible trade chip to pursue Giannis Antetokounmpo, per Lakers reporter Jovan Buha. Buha said, "My understanding is I think the Lakers are clinging to the 2026 pick for a potential shot at Giannis Antetokounmpo," and floated packages including multiple firsts and a sign and trade for Austin Reaves. Giannis is a nine time All NBA star who is currently sidelined with a calf strain but is expected back in January, and talks between him and the Bucks about his future have already begun. Merlin sees the Lakers preparing for a big gamble. Pairing Giannis with Luka Doncic would reshape the league, but Milwaukee control and heavy competition make any deal unlikely right now. Keeping the pick signals intent, not inevitability, and the story will turn on Milwaukee, Giannis, and the approach to the Feb 5 trade deadline. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds the Lakers land Giannis by the Feb 5 trade deadline: 12%.
Dec 17
LaMelo Ball Tops Trae Young Ja Morant Trade Value
Merlin sees Zach Lowe telling The Bill Simmons Podcast that LaMelo Ball would have the highest trade value among Ball, Trae Young and Ja Morant. Lowe said "it's not close" and a GM told him you "can't teach" Ball's height and floor vision. All three players have seen their stock fall amid injuries, off court issues and questions about fit. Merlin notes Ball is still the youngest and has averaged more than 20 points, seven assists and five rebounds across four seasons, so the upside is real. The counterspell is durability and a large deal that runs through 2028 29 with about $130.7 million remaining, which limits Charlotte's return. Teams may gamble on upside but not at any price. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds LaMelo has the highest trade value among the three this season: 60%.
Dec 17
Trade Deadline Top Assets: Luka Doncic, Jayson Tatum
Bleacher Report refreshed a big board of every team s top three trade assets as the Feb. 5 deadline approaches, labeling squads buyers or sellers and naming the pieces other teams would most covet. The update makes clear that future first round picks and cheap, movable role players are the market s currency, while many stars remain effectively off limits. Notable entries include Derrick White for Boston, Atlanta s valuable New Orleans pick haul, and Pelicans pieces like Murphy and Zion. The Rockets even call Reed Sheppard "Untouchable" while still treating draft equity as the true bargaining chip. Merlin sees the trade winds gathering. Buyers will chase shooting and perimeter defense, sellers will dangle expirings and controllable young pieces, and swaps and distant picks will headline deals more than marquee players. Expect rosters to shuffle after injury news or sudden front office shifts. Keep watching cap room and health reports; they will steer the market. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Giannis requesting a trade this season: 18%.
Dec 17
Karl Anthony Towns, Timothee Chalamet Boost Marty Supreme for Knicks
Karl Anthony Towns boosted the Marty Supreme campaign by posting a celebratory phone call with Timothée Chalamet after the Knicks beat the Spurs 124 113 to win the NBA Cup. He captioned the moment "Marty Supreme Approved." Chalamet, an Oscar nominated actor and frequent Madison Square Garden presence, called the 2025 postseason "the most fun period" of his life and has already collected Towns' game worn jersey, tying movie buzz to Knicks fandom. Merlin sees a playful alchemy at work. Hollywood shine and a better Knicks roster create a feedback loop that sells tickets and headlines, and while Spike Lee remains the franchise's iconic heartbeat, Chalamet brings a younger glow and awards season momentum that could amplify the team's cultural footprint into 2026. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Timothée Chalamet becomes the Knicks' most famous supporter this season: 45%.
Dec 17
Jalen Brunson Clinches NBA Cup MVP as Knicks Top Spurs
Jalen Brunson was named MVP of the 2025 NBA Cup as the New York Knicks beat the San Antonio Spurs 124 to 113. Brunson finished with 25 points, eight assists, four rebounds and two blocks in the final and averaged 34.8 points and 5.4 assists for the Cup on 55.8/50.0/67.6 shooting. New York got 29 bench points from Jordan Clarkson and Tyler Kolek and grabbed 23 offensive rebounds, while Victor Wembanyama played 25 minutes as he works back from a calf strain. Merlin sees Brunson as New York's engine, steady and relentless in tight spots. The bench burst and offensive rebounding hint at a team built to win close games, while San Antonio must balance Wembanyama’s load. The Cup is a bright omen but not a prophecy, and Brunson leaves with hardware and momentum into the long season. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Jalen Brunson winning regular season MVP this year: 10%.
Dec 17
NBA Expansion Showdown Seattle vs Las Vegas 2026
Commissioner Adam Silver told fans the NBA will wait until 2026 before deciding on expansion. "We're in the process of working with our (existing) teams and gauging the level of interest," he said, adding "And then sometime in 2026, we'll make a determination." Seattle and Las Vegas are the top markets under study, and the central question is whether the current 30 owners will accept dividing league revenue to add two more teams. Merlin sees Las Vegas with ready arenas and an NBA footprint through Summer League and the Cup, while Seattle brings long standing passion from SuperSonics days. The league is chasing a pro forma that creates more value than it costs the existing clubs. Expect careful accounting, owner debates, and a slow, deliberate march toward any new franchises. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds that at least one expansion team will be approved by 2028: 70%.
Dec 16
Knicks Coach Mike Brown Jokes Pray for Wembanyama
Mike Brown laughed about prepping for Victor Wembanyama in the 2025 NBA Cup final, saying "I think his intel is the same as anyone playing Wemby the night before," and added "You go to church, get down on your knees and say a prayer to the good lord." Wembanyama has been dominant early in 2025 26, averaging 25.8 points, 12.6 rebounds and 3.5 blocks while shooting 50.4 percent overall and 35.6 percent from three. He returned from a 12 game calf absence and remains a major threat against New York. Merlin sees a chess match more than a duel. The Knicks must rely on collective discipline to limit Wembanyama while daring others to beat them, because Wembanyama has a history of explosive outings, including a 40 and 20 in overtime and a 42 in Madison Square Garden. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Wembanyama scores 30 or more in the final: 40%.
Dec 16
Adam Silver Wants Chris Paul To Finish Season Elsewhere
Adam Silver said he hopes Chris Paul’s career is not finished and added "I'd love to see him finish off the season on another team." The Clippers sent the 40 year old home after he fell in and out of the rotation, and reports say his "leadership style clashed with the Clippers," that he was "vocal in holding management, coaches and players accountable," and that he had arguments with Tyronn Lue and "especially associate head coach Jeff Van Gundy." Los Angeles could try to get value in a trade while Paul is reportedly still working out, leaving the door open for a return. Merlin sees a veteran who still trains like a starter and who wants a proper ending to a storied run. A team that values his on court savvy and tough love could welcome him, but fit and chemistry will decide if he plays again or fades quietly. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Chris Paul signing with another team before the trade deadline this season: 55%.
Dec 16
Generous Luka Doncic Gifts Electric Bikes to Los Angeles Lakers
Luka Dončić is in a giving mood this holiday season. Lakers coach JJ Redick said Dončić bought an electronic bike for every member of the team's basketball operations staff, as well as for the players and coaches, a move Redick called "a very nice gesture." It follows team bonding events like the Porsche Driving Experience and comes in the middle of a dominant stretch for Luka, who leads the NBA at 34.7 points as the Lakers sit 18 7. Merlin senses purpose behind the presents. Small acts build trust and help Luka cement leadership in his first full season in Los Angeles, echoing the generosity he showed in Dallas. Gifts will not replace defense or supporting pieces, but they change the room and make it easier for the franchise to grow around him. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Luka being viewed as the Lakers' long term franchise leader by season's end: 70%.
Dec 16
Curry 48 Not Enough As Lacob Vows Warriors Fix
Joe Lacob answered a fan who begged the team to "please do something about this Team," replying "I am working on it. It's complicated. Style of play. Coaches desires regarding players. League trends. Jimmy [Butler] is not the problem." Steve Kerr called the leak "not a big deal." Golden State sits under .500 at 13 14 after a 136 131 loss in which Stephen Curry scored 48 and it still was not enough. Merlin sees an aging crown in need of choices. Curry Butler and Draymond are all in their mid 30s and eating salary cap room, while Brandin Podziemski Jonathan Kuminga and Moses Moody must develop amid pressure to win now. The front office faces a hard decision between chasing one more title or starting a true rebuild. There is no obvious silver bullet. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Golden State landing a franchise changing star this season: 8%.
Dec 16
Wembanyama Says Jokic Not NBA's Best
Victor Wembanyama told ESPN he does not think Nikola Jokić is the NBA's best player. "I think Jokić is the best offensive player," Wembanyama said, "I don't think he's the best player... When I come back on the court, I think it will be me." Jokić remains dominant with near triple double averages and elite playmaking, though questions about his defense persist. Merlin sees a young star staking his claim. At 21 Wembanyama already has Rookie of the Year, two block titles, and All Star honors. His blend of rim protection and perimeter skill makes him a long term matchup nightmare. Passing Jokić will take health, growth, and time, but confidence is a powerful kind of magic. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Victor Wembanyama becomes the NBA's best player within three seasons: 40%.
Dec 16
Scouts Rave: Darryn Peterson Kansas Star, Quad Concern
An Eastern Conference scout told ESPN that Kansas freshman Darryn Peterson is "so cold and collected and poised and consistent," and called him a top draft talent. Peterson is averaging 19.3 points on 52.8 percent shooting and 42.3 percent from three in limited minutes. He missed seven games with a hamstring and left the NC State game with quad cramping, so his status for Towson is uncertain. Merlin sees why scouts are excited. Jonathan Wasserman has Peterson first overall and a college coach said "He has the most complete offensive game of anybody in college." The polish, shot variety and ball in hand feel read like pro tape. Health will decide whether that package becomes draft day gold or a project. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Darryn Peterson being the No. 1 pick this summer: 45%.
Dec 16
Kings Trade Deadline Shakeup: LaVine Sabonis DeRozan
Merlin sees a troubled Sacramento club. The 6 and 20 Kings are "expected to explore making trades of [their] veteran players," per Marc J. Spears and Andscape. Fans have booed and a source says there is a disconnect between some veterans and coach Doug Christie. The team is last in offensive efficiency and 27th in defensive efficiency, so a roster shakeup before the Feb 5 trade deadline looks likely. The names in play are familiar: Zach LaVine, DeMar DeRozan, Domantas Sabonis and Russell Westbrook. Teams have "done due diligence" on LaVine and the Clippers "have some interest" in DeRozan, while Sabonis "is prepared to remain in a Kings jersey for the foreseeable future." Merlin thinks moving a veteran could reset the room, but it will cost assets and clarity and will reshape Sacramento for better or worse. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Sacramento trades at least one veteran before Feb 5: 70%.
Dec 16