NBA News
Latest stories across platforms — updated frequently
Articles are authored by Merlin — the SportsWZRD.
Nov 23, 2025
Klay Thompson Fires Back at Ja Morant Trash Talk
After Memphis’ 102-96 win, Ja Morant — sitting in street clothes — taunted Klay Thompson on a local broadcast: "Tell 'em who the best shooter in the house was. It wasn't bro from Golden State." Thompson shot back in the locker room, calling Morant a "funny guy" who "rarely takes accountability" and saying the jab "offered nothing of intelligent depth." The spat matters because it highlights lingering bad blood, Morant’s rocky form (17.9 points on 35.9% shooting) and the optics of a star out of the game trash-talking. Merlin sees a verbal knockout landed by experience over frustration. With Morant battling injuries and consistency and Thompson carrying championship credibility, this rivalry is more bark than bite now — but it can flare. Circle Feb. 27. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of a heated on-court confrontation on Feb. 27: 25%.
Cooper Flagg Flounders: Mavericks Fall to Ja-less Grizzlies
Cooper Flagg and the Mavericks dropped a 102-96 home loss to the Grizzlies, slipping to 5-13. Memphis played without Ja Morant, but Santi Aldama (20 points) and Zach Edey (12 and 15 rebounds) stepped up while “Flagg shot just 4-of-15,” finishing with 12 points and seven boards. Klay Thompson’s 22 off the bench (6-of-12 from deep) and a late defensive breakdown — plus Edey’s block on a potential game-winner — sealed Dallas’ fate. Merlin sees a young Mavs team fraying at the edges: offense sputters when Flagg can’t find a rhythm and defensive lapses cost late. This road trip to Miami will tell whether Flagg calms under pressure or the Mavericks spiral further. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Dallas wins at Miami on Monday: 20%.
Nov 23
Mavericks Thrust Rookie Cooper Flagg Into Starting Point Guard
Merlin sees the Mavericks are handing rookie Cooper Flagg the keys to the offense immediately — “There’s no easing in, there’s no dipping his toe in the water,” as ESPN’s Tim MacMahon put it. With Kyrie Irving sidelined, Dallas plans to list Flagg at point guard and likely start him alongside Klay Thompson, P.J. Washington, Anthony Davis and Dereck Lively II, bringing D’Angelo Russell off the bench. The move is born of necessity: the lineup promises length and defense, but it only works if Flagg can make plays. Merlin notes Jason Kidd’s confidence — “I thought he could do those things” — and remembers Flagg’s 4.2 assists per game at Duke. It’s a bold baptism by fire: high upside as a scorer, facilitator and disruptor on defense, but a steep learning curve against NBA bodies. His first real test is Wednesday against Victor Wembanyama. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Cooper Flagg starts and averages 25+ minutes in the opening month: 90%.
Nov 22
Rockets' $100M+ Extension Offer to Tari Eason Falls Through
Merlin sees the Rockets put real money on the table for Tari Eason — ESPN’s Brian Windhorst said Houston “made Eason a strong offer” that “was in excess of $100 million,” but the two sides didn’t agree before the season. That matters because Eason just turned in a breakout year (roughly 12 points, 6.4 rebounds, 1.7 steals off the bench) and will be a restricted free agent, meaning Houston can still match any offer and clearly values his upside. Merlin senses a calculated gamble: Houston signaled they view Eason as a building block but preserved flexibility by letting RFA rules do the heavy lifting. This season is Eason’s real audition — prove he can slide into a larger role or stay a high-impact glue piece, and the Rockets will likely press to keep him; otherwise the market may force a choice. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Houston matching a max-ish offer for Eason this offseason: 65%.
Nov 22
James Harden's 55-Point Explosion Sets Clippers Record
James Harden erupted for a franchise-record 55 points, leading the Clippers to a 131-116 win in Charlotte. He scored 27 in the first quarter, hit 10-of-16 threes, shot 17-of-26 overall, made 11-of-14 free throws and added seven assists. The effort is his 25th career 50-point game — tying Kobe Bryant for third-most all time — and matches the season high alongside Nikola Jokić and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Merlin sees a seasoned scorer reminding the league he still has alchemy in his hands; Harden, who said "basketball is life," was humble about the result. This performance injects hope into a 5-11 start, but one dazzling night won’t fix roster gaps or defensive woes — the Clippers need consistency around their comet if this becomes a true turnaround. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of the Clippers making the playoffs this season: 40%.
Nov 22
Jimmy Butler Blasts Warriors' Defense After Blazers Loss
Jimmy Butler’s blunt verdict after a 127-123 loss to Portland — “we’re not guarding nobody” — captured a worrying truth: Golden State’s defense has become erratic. Friday was the ninth time in 18 games the Warriors allowed 120+ points (they allowed 16 all of last season). With Jrue Holiday sidelined, Portland’s size and scorers (Donovan Clingan 22/10, Caleb Love 26 on 6-of-14 threes, Deni Avdija 26/13) exposed gaps. The team still sits 10th in defensive rating but ranks just 23rd offensively, so defensive lapses carry extra weight. Merlin sees a fragile balance. This roster leans on Butler and Curry to hold the fort; when rotation size and disciplined effort vanish, opponents feast. If Golden State wants postseason hope, habit — not flashes — must return on that end. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of the Warriors returning to elite defensive form this month: 35%.
Nov 22
Netflix to Film 'Definitive' Kevin Durant Docuseries
Netflix is filming "the definitive documentary series chronicling" Kevin Durant’s career, with cameras rolling from before 2023-24 through 2025-26 and beyond. It matters because Durant’s story—from AP Player of the Year at Texas to the Sonics/Thunder, the controversial move to Golden State, championships and an Achilles injury, public clashes and superteam experiments in Brooklyn and Phoenix, to his current role in Houston—is one of the most complex chapters in NBA history. Merlin sees a pattern of triumph, controversy and reinvention. The series should capture championship highs, the Achilles comeback, Durant’s social-media battles and quieter moments off the court, probing the choices that shaped how fans remember him — and it will arrive while he’s still adding to the story. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds the series becomes a cultural must-watch and meaningfully reshapes Durant’s legacy: 80%.
Nov 22
Dillon Brooks Roasts Julius Randle After Suns Win
Dillon Brooks jabbed at Julius Randle after Phoenix’s 114-113 win, saying “They were talking too early and I love that,” and pointing to Randle’s two costly turnovers in the final 25 seconds and a missed potential game-winner. Brooks led the Suns with 22 points and is averaging a career-best 21.0 PPG pace, while Minnesota’s Randle still posts strong numbers (24.7/7.3/5.8) despite five turnovers in the game. The Suns sit 10-6, level with the Timberwolves, so this mattered for standings and confidence. Merlin sees more than heat-of-the-moment trash talk — he sees a budding rivalry. Brooks’ newfound scoring and Phoenix’s chemistry after the Durant trade make the Suns a dangerous match for a veteran Timberwolves group that’s prone to late-game lapses. The Dec. 8 rematch could be a playoff-like preview. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Suns and Timberwolves meeting in the playoffs this season: 30%.
Nov 22
LeBron Salutes Chris Paul on Instagram Amid Retirement Rumors
LeBron James quietly saluted Chris Paul on Instagram as reports from Shams Charania say the 2025‑26 season is expected to be Paul’s 21st — and likely his last. Paul himself hinted at an ending in a social post. It matters because Paul finishes a rare floor‑general career: 12 All‑Star nods, five scoring leads? (wait) — no, stick to article: led NBA in steals six times, assists five times, 11‑time All‑NBA, nine‑time All‑Defensive, Rookie of the Year, part of the 75th Anniversary Team, career averages of 16.9 points and 9.2 assists. A Hall of Fame induction now looks inevitable. Merlin sees the closing of a chapter more than a final box score. Paul’s craft, leadership and clutch instincts reshaped teams and teammates; LeBron’s salute is a public bow from a longtime ally. Expect warm tributes, a mentor role if he returns, and ceremonies that honor a modern master of the point guard art. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Chris Paul retires after 2025‑26: 85%.
Nov 22
Chris Paul Hints Retirement, Clippers Farewell Season
Chris Paul signaled he'll retire after 21 seasons, posting "GRATEFUL for this last one!!" before the Clippers' trip to Charlotte — his home state — and ESPN's Shams Charania reported Paul intends to retire at season's end. He returned on a one-year deal chasing a title but is averaging 2.5 points and 3.3 assists as the Clippers sit 4-11. Paul leaves as a 12-time All-Star who ranks second all-time in assists and steals and is a lock for the Hall of Fame. Merlin sees a career closing like a carefully written spell: a floor general, mentor, and craftsman whose influence stretched across New Orleans, L.A., Houston, Phoenix and beyond. Even if the final chapter is quieter on the stat sheet, Paul's leadership and longevity will echo in young guards and front offices for years. Expect a heartfelt league-wide farewell and rapid Hall of Fame nod. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Chris Paul retires after this season: 95%.
Nov 22
Bronny James Shines in South Bay G League Debut
Merlin sees Bronny James opened the 2025-26 G League season with South Bay, pouring in 15 points (5‑of‑10, 2‑of‑5 3PT) with a team‑high eight assists, four rebounds and three steals in a 115‑95 win over Santa Cruz. The performance matters because he was just reassigned after limited NBA minutes (2.1 PPG in 11.1 MPG) — this is a clear audition to regain rhythm and push for more playing time with the Lakers. Merlin notes the lines echo last year’s South Bay form (21.9 PPG, 5.3 RPG, 5.3 APG) and that his playmaking and defense stood out in a 33‑16 third quarter that closed the game. With a crowded Lakers backcourt and rookie Adou Thiero also making noise, Bronny needs consistent, high‑level showings in the G League to force a real look in L.A. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Bronny earning 15+ NBA minutes in a regular-season game this year: 25%.
Nov 22
Flagg's 29 Tops Zion, Mavs Edge Pelicans
Merlin sees Cooper Flagg and the Mavericks notch a 118-114 NBA Cup win over Zion Williamson’s Pelicans. Flagg, the No. 1 pick, poured in a career-high 29 points with seven rebounds, five assists and two steals; No. 13 pick Derik Queen finished with 20-7-11. Dallas moved to 5-12 overall and grabbed its first Cup victory (1-2 in group play), while New Orleans fell to 2-14 and an eight-game skid. The Pelicans led 63-49 at halftime, but a late Flagg basket after a steal, a Naji Marshall three and a P.J. Washington block decided the game; Anthony Davis remained out. Merlin knows this matters beyond one box score: Flagg is flashing scoring, playmaking and clutch instincts that merit attention, while Queen and Zion can’t carry a thin Pelicans roster alone. Dallas still needs consistency, but tonight’s finish suggests the rookie’s star path is real — and the rookie-of-the-year debate between former Montverde teammates just got louder. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Cooper Flagg finishes as Rookie of the Year: 35%.
Nov 22
DeMar DeRozan: Kings in 's--tty place' amid 3-13 slide
DeMar DeRozan admitted the Kings are in a “s--tty” place after a 3-13 start and an eighth straight loss, a 137-96 blowout by Memphis. He warned, “Don't nobody want to lose the way we've been losing,” while Sacramento also learned Domantas Sabonis will miss at least a month with a partial meniscus tear. With DeRozan and Zach LaVine combining for nearly half the cap and a minus-21.6 net rating when they share the floor, the urgency is real. Merlin sees a team stuck between talent and turmoil. Without Sabonis, the burden on DeRozan and LaVine grows — they must lift offense and defense or the slide deepens. Coaching, bench scoring and quick chemistry fixes will decide if this season heals or unravels further. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of the Kings making the playoffs this season: 25%.
Nov 21
Stephen Curry Sneaker Free Agency: Jordan, Li-Ning, Nike?
Merlin sees Stephen Curry enter sneaker free agency after a 12-year partnership with Under Armour ended. He’s been spotted in the "Oregon" Air Jordan 3 PE, the "Mambacita" Nike Kobe 6 and Li‑Ning JB 4s, and — per Front Office Sports — he "can wear any shoe brand he wants"; reports say Nike is among the suitors. This matters because Curry, still averaging 27.9 points, 4.1 assists, 3.6 rebounds and 1.5 steals, remains a cultural and commercial force whose choice will reshape the sneaker market. Merlin senses Nike as the likeliest suitor given Curry’s past with the brand, but the oracle expects creative outcomes: short-term multi-brand runs, signature capsules, or equity-rich contracts that trade cash for legacy. At 37 and playing at an MVP-caliber level, Curry can pick the platform that best extends his on-court myth and off-court influence — watch for a reveal timed to a big moment. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Curry signing with Nike this season: 65%.
Nov 21
Knicks' Karl-Anthony Towns Sells Record $72K Yamamoto Card
Karl-Anthony Towns quietly set a new high-water mark in sports cards Friday by selling a 1-of-1 2024 Topps Inception MLB Logoman rookie card of Yoshinobu Yamamoto for $72,000 in a Fanatics Collect auction. The PSA “Gem Mint 10” card features a logo patch and autograph; it more than doubled the previous record for a Yamamoto rookie and signals rising demand after the pitcher’s 2025 World Series MVP run. Merlin sees more than a flashy sale — he sees narrative fueling value. Yamamoto’s Game 2 nine-inning duel, a Game 6 start and a Game 7 close turned performance into provenance. With a Topps code “yet to be redeemed,” more rare pieces could surface, and athletes unwrapping trophies (or cards) in public only sharpens collector hunger. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of a Yamamoto rookie card surpassing $100,000 within 12 months: 65%.
Nov 21
Ja Morant on the Block: Wolves, Kings Watch
Merlin sees trade clouds gathering over Ja Morant as the Grizzlies are expected to test his market, though sources warn it will be hard to get "proper value." An anonymous scout told ESPN, "I do think they'll move him." Once a 23‑plus scorer and two‑time All‑Star, Morant’s 2025‑26 line (17.9 PPG, 7.6 AST) and career‑low shooting (35.9% FG, 16.7% 3P) — after injuries and suspension — have left Memphis with a thorny choice. Merlin notes Minnesota and Sacramento are monitoring while Houston is unlikely to pursue him. The Wolves could pair Morant with their veterans; the Kings still need a lead guard. Memphis must weigh talent versus damaged market value: a hot streak restores leverage, continued decline forces a cheaper deal. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Ja Morant being traded this season: 40%.
Nov 21
LeBron James' All-NBA Streak in Jeopardy — Lakers
LeBron James risks missing an All‑NBA spot for the first time in 22 years after sitting out the season’s first 14 games with right‑side sciatica. The NBA’s 65‑game minimum means he can only miss three more games; he’d need to appear in “64 of the Lakers' remaining 67 games” to stay eligible. ESPN’s Dave McMenamin notes it may come down to health — and “his desire to keep his All‑NBA streak alive.” Coach JJ Redick says the team will use “daily communication” and called this “uncharted territory.” Merlin sees a crossroads: the record streak is sacred, but so is a 41‑year‑old body. The coming Nov. 30–Dec. 1 back‑to‑back with New Orleans and Phoenix is a small prophecy — how LeBron handles it will reveal if priority is longevity, team goals, or another milestone chase. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of LeBron making an All‑NBA team this season: 40%.
Nov 21
LaMelo Ball's Clown Emoji: Denies Trade Rumors, Loves Hornets
LaMelo Ball pushed back on trade chatter after replying with a clown emoji to a report saying he was "open to a trade." He called the report "false info," told reporters "I love being here" and stressed he just wants to win. That matters because Ball is the Hornets’ highest-profile piece and stability around him affects lineup, morale and roster moves amid a 4-11 start. Merlin sees the obvious: injuries have blurred the picture. Ball has been limited by a right ankle issue and the team is also missing Brandon Miller, so minutes and patience are guarded. With a five-year deal and Charles Lee calling him "a huge piece of our franchise," the simplest path for Charlotte is health and continuity — but the market will whisper if struggles persist. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of LaMelo requesting a trade this season: 15%.
Nov 21
Warriors' Defensive Ace Chris DeMarco Named Liberty Head Coach
Merlin sees the New York Liberty have tapped longtime Warriors assistant Chris DeMarco as their next head coach, replacing Sandy Brondello after a first‑round exit. His resume — four NBA championships, a defensive specialist role in Golden State, Summer League leadership and international success with the Bahamas — matters because New York needs immediate defensive repair and a coach who can sell a win‑now vision to star players. Merlin notes DeMarco’s defensive chops and championship seasoning could steady a team whose defensive rating slipped and whose roster is clouded by CBA uncertainty. GM Jonathan Kolb’s “utmost confidence” that the Liberty’s big three want to return is a vote of faith; still, signing momentum will depend on how quickly DeMarco turns talk into on‑court results and reassurance for Breanna Stewart, Sabrina Ionescu and Jonquel Jones. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of New York re‑signing Stewart, Ionescu and Jones for 2026: 55%.
Nov 21
Hornets' LaMelo Ball Trade Market Shrinks
Merlin sees a tense crossroads in Charlotte: reports say LaMelo Ball has "grown increasingly frustrated" and ESPN’s Brian Windhorst doubts there’s a "humongous market" for him. Ball signaled disagreement with a clown emoji. The concerns are clear — availability (145 missed games of 246 over three years), a hefty five-year, $203.9M extension, defensive holes and slumping efficiency (38.5% FG, 29.8% 3PT) — all while the Hornets sputter at 4-11. Merlin notes the paradox: Ball still averages 20+ points and 7+ assists, offering real upside, but Charlotte needs a plan. Coach Charles Lee has said they will "challenge him to improve," yet a benching and the team's slide suggest impatience. Expect teams to consider him only as a buy-low, high-risk asset or in a sign-and-trade that protects Charlotte’s salary flexibility. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of LaMelo being traded this season: 30%.
Nov 21
Mavericks Protect Anthony Davis, Pistons Circling Trade
The Mavericks are deliberately holding Anthony Davis back from game action as he recovers from a calf strain because, as Christian Clark notes, they need him "to get back on the floor so he can rebuild his value." Dallas governor Patrick Dumont "stepped in" to slow the return, demanding "medical metrics" that rule out re‑aggravation; with Davis hampered, limited games played, and two guaranteed years on his deal, his trade price is fragile. ESPN’s Kendrick Perkins says the Pistons have "a lot of interest" if Davis becomes available. Merlin sees prudence, not panic. Davis once rushed back and then missed 18 games — a cautionary tale for a team that must maximize return (they won’t control a first‑rounder again until 2031). If Davis proves healthy and productive, trade talks heat up; if not, leverage fades fast. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Dallas trading Anthony Davis this season: 30% (Detroit landing him: 15%).
Nov 21
Dodgers' Power Duo Zaidi & Friedman Advising Lakers
Merlin sees that Dodgers executives Farhan Zaidi and Andrew Friedman have quietly started advising the Los Angeles Lakers after Mark Walter’s purchase of the team. Zaidi is helping with the ownership transition while Friedman consults with GM Rob Pelinka under a new holding, TWG Sports; Jeanie Buss will remain governor "for the foreseeable future" even as Joey and Jesse Buss were dismissed. This matters because Walter is importing a front office that built a modern baseball dynasty to a franchise hungry for its next championship. Merlin notes that baseball smarts don’t translate automatically to hoops, but the Dodgers’ obsessive roster construction and resource management could sharpen the Lakers’ edges. With LeBron back and Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves playing at a high level, the timing for a refined front office is ideal—still, chemistry and health will decide how much magic follows. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of the Lakers winning the NBA title this season: 28%.
Nov 21
Pitino: Knicks Snubbed Donovan Mitchell in 2017 Draft
Rick Pitino revealed he phoned the Knicks before the 2017 draft and implored them, "Listen, take my guy Donovan Mitchell. He's going to kill it," but New York replied, "Nah, I don't know if we can take him that high" and selected Frank Ntilikina at No. 8. Mitchell slid to Utah at No. 13 and became a six-time All-Star and two-time All-NBA player (career 24.9 ppg), while Ntilikina never developed — a stark what-if that still matters for the Knicks' draft legacy. Merlin sees small choices grow into long shadows. New York rebuilt around Jalen Brunson, Josh Hart and other stars, but Pitino’s call and Mitchell’s rise are proof that caution can cost a franchise a cornerstone. This story reminds fans that draft night whispers echo for years and shape rivalries when former prospects meet again. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds the Knicks still regret passing on Mitchell: 85%.
Nov 21
2025 NBA Draft: Pelicans' Costly Blunder — Nets, Suns Regret
Teams are already regretting several 2025 draft choices less than a season in. The New Orleans trade that gave up No. 23 plus an unprotected 2026 first for Derik Queen stands out as the clearest blunder, leaving the Pelicans without a safety net in a down year. Other missteps include Brooklyn loading up on guards (and possibly passing on rim protector Ryan Kalkbrenner), Phoenix taking Khaman Maluach while safer frontcourt options waited, and Washington landing Tre Johnson at No. 6 while Jeremiah Fears—picked one slot later—looks like a star in the making. Merlin sees a pattern: teams chose upside or urgency over prudent asset management, and the cost is already showing. Some gambles can pay off over time, but the Pelicans’ unprotected pick is a wound that may sting for years. Nets and Suns can still course-correct; Utah’s Ace Bailey vs. Kon Knueppel is a reminder that a single spot can change narratives. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds the Pelicans’ deal is remembered as the worst draft-night move of 2025: 70%.
Nov 21
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LaMelo Ball On The Block: Hornets, Clippers, Heat?
A Yahoo Sports report pushed the rumor mill: amid a 4-11 start, Hornets star LaMelo Ball is reportedly "open to a trade" — a claim Ball answered with a clown emoji. That matters because the 6'7" playmaker (24.1 points, 8.0 assists, 3.7 threes over four seasons) could immediately alter contenders' offenses; Portland, the Clippers, Miami and Dallas are all named fits. Merlin sees a marketplace forming: Portland would gain a shotmaker and floor creator, L.A. would get youth and relief for Harden/Leonard, Miami could unlock Bam with a pass-first twin, and Dallas might rebalance around its young pieces. Injuries, LaMelo’s contract and Charlotte’s price will shape any deal — the spell is cast, but not sealed. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of LaMelo being traded this season: 30%.
Nov 21