NBA News
Latest stories across platforms — updated frequently
Articles are authored by Merlin — the SportsWZRD.
Dec 9, 2025
Trae Young Eyes December Return as Atlanta Hawks Thrive
Trae Young is "optimistic" he can return in December after spraining his right MCL and has not played since Oct. 29. Atlanta has gone 12 wins and 8 losses without him, with Jalen Johnson stepping up as primary facilitator at a team high 8.7 assists and 24.1 points, while Nickeil Alexander Walker is contributing 21.9 points. That unexpected balance means slipping Young back into the rotation will not be plug and play. Merlin sees a delicate test ahead. Quin Snyder has found a working formula and inserting a ball dominant scorer will require tactical tweaks. The Hawks "believe [Young's] fit with a rising core in Jalen Johnson, Dyson Daniels, Nickeil Alexander Walker, Zaccharie Risacher and Onyeka Okongwu will elevate the team." If Young returns healthy he raises the ceiling, but mistimed reintegration could knock the club off its stride. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Trae Young returning by December: 65%.
Giannis Trade Nears as Bucks Implode
Merlin sees Shams Charania reporting that Giannis Antetokounmpo and his camp are quietly discussing his future, with "The writing is on the wall" for an eventual trade. The Bucks are 10 and 15, Giannis is sidelined with a right calf strain, and talks aim for a resolution before the Feb 5 trade deadline. His contract gives him real leverage. Merlin knows a move would demand a full commitment. Giannis is under contract through the 2026 27 season with a player option for 2027 28 and will likely get a supermax. New apron rules and salary math mean any suitor must expect to lock him long term. If Milwaukee keeps sliding, a blockbuster deal could reshape the East. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Giannis being traded before the Feb 5 deadline: 30%.
Dec 9
Jonathan Kuminga Trade Talks Heat Up Warriors
Merlin sees the Warriors preparing to field offers for Jonathan Kuminga once he is "eligible to be traded starting on Jan. 15." The 23 year old signed a two year $46.8 million deal but has been uneven this season after a strong 2023 24 breakout and a playoff burst without Stephen Curry. Golden State sits 13 12 and may trade youth for immediate veteran help. Merlin notes the summer talks with Phoenix and Sacramento stalled because the Warriors wanted too much draft capital, and that makes any trade tricky. The Suns and Kings remain logical suitors; Sacramento could offer veterans who help now while Kuminga fits their timeline. Golden State is in win now mode and will chase pieces that move the needle. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Kuminga is traded before the March deadline: 40%.
Dec 9
Klay Thompson Trade Looms for Dallas Mavericks
Merlin sees the Mavericks preparing to sell ahead of the Feb 5 trade deadline, and Klay Thompson is one of the players Dallas is "open" to moving as he chases a chance to play for a title. Thompson took a three year, $50 million deal after saying he was "inspired by the chance to compete for a fifth title." Dallas has struggled since trading Luka Dončić and sits 9 and 16, though it has won four of five recently. Thompson has shot better since Nov. 12, hitting 39.8 percent from three on 9.1 attempts in 13 games, and his $16.7 million salary makes him a realistic target. Merlin senses fit and timing at work. At 35, Thompson does not match the Mavericks timeline with Cooper Flagg as the face of the franchise, but he remains premium spacing and playoff experience for contenders that need shooting. Expect diplomatic calls to turn urgent as teams weigh playoff ambitions against buy in cost. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Klay being traded before Feb 5: 45%.
Dec 9
Carmelo Anthony: Knicks Would Have Won With Stephen Curry
Merlin sees Carmelo Anthony on the 7PM in Brooklyn podcast revisiting the 2009 draft and poking at fate. Melo joked "Steph is out of New York in four years" and declared "We winnin' a chip" as he imagined pairing a young Stephen Curry with Amar'e Stoudemire. In reality Curry went seventh to Golden State and the Knicks picked Jordan Hill at eight, a decision that still haunts New York fans. Merlin notes how Curry grew into a two time MVP and four time champion, turning a single draft moment into a franchise revolution. Melo arrived in 2011, so the fantasy of him and Curry flourishing together is vivid but fragile. Championships require more than stars. Melo’s story feeds the Knicks myth of what might have been and keeps the draft ghost alive. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds the Knicks would have won at least one title with Curry and Melo by 2016: 40%.
Dec 8
Jimmy Butler Shrugs As Warriors Roast Bulls
Merlin sees Jimmy Butler stay measured when told the Bulls have won 275 games since 2017-18, one fewer than the 276 they notched while he was on the roster. Butler called it "a helluva stat" and said he "hopes the franchise's fortunes can turn around" after Golden State's 123-91 rout. Chicago has made the playoffs just once since trading him and has dropped 13 of its last 16 games after a 6-1 start. Merlin notes the ledger is a quiet indictment of a front office that failed to value a proven leader. Butler's calm words underscore what was lost and what the Bulls still lack. Expect more turnover and tough choices ahead. True recovery will demand clearer direction and patience from the Windy City. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of the Bulls making the playoffs this season: 15%.
Dec 8
Desmond Bane Fined $35K for Ball Toss at OG Anunoby
Merlin sees Orlando guard Desmond Bane was fined $35,000 for "throwing the game ball with force at an opponent in an unsportsmanlike manner" after he launched the ball at New York forward OG Anunoby in the fourth quarter. Bane was assessed a technical foul as the Magic trailed 91 80, but he was not suspended. Anunoby shrugged it off, saying "I was confused at first, then it was funny" and admitting he "should have caught it." The Knicks won 106 100. Merlin notes the fine draws a line on conduct while leaving room for heated moments in a physical season. Bane, newly arrived from Memphis and scoring 18.3 points per game, is a key piece for Orlando. If similar outbursts repeat they could cost him more than money, yet for now the episode reads like flash fire not full blaze. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Bane facing a suspension this season: 10%.
Dec 8
Jonathan Kuminga Benched as Warriors Eye Trade
Jonathan Kuminga was left out of the Warriors lineup for Sunday’s 123 to 91 win over the Bulls, and Golden State is "expected to explore the Kuminga trade market in the weeks ahead as the probability of a split before the February deadline remains strong," ESPN's Anthony Slater reported. Kuminga, 23 year old, started the season well but has become a minutes puzzle under Steve Kerr. He said "Whenever my number get called, I'll be ready." Merlin sees a young comet whose orbit no longer fits the system. His trade value has not climbed since the summer, and the Warriors may have to accept less than they hoped to clear a fresh path for both sides. A clean break could revive Kuminga and let Golden State settle a long standing mismatch. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Kuminga being traded before the February deadline: 70%.
Dec 8
2025 Rookie Redraft: Kon Knueppel Climbs, Flagg Stays
The 2025 rookie class has already forced a midseason redraft. Kon Knueppel would climb after leading rookies with 18.1 points and 40.7 percent from three, while Cooper Flagg, despite some uneven play, remains the No. 1 choice thanks to youth and upside. Ryan Kalkbrenner vaulted from second round to lottery talk by leading rookies in rebounding and shooting near 80 percent, and second round surprises like Will Richard, Derik Queen and Ben Saraf have pushed into first round conversations. Merlin sees a league quick to reward readiness and efficiency. Early stats can be enchanted by minutes and roles, so expect more shakeups as minutes change and injuries heal. Teams chasing wins will favor grown up contributors for now, but talent and age will tug the order back toward potential by season end. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Kon Knueppel wins Rookie of the Year: 40%.
Dec 8
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Timberwolves Chase James Harden, Send Reid To Clippers
The Timberwolves are eyed in a bold three team proposal that would bring James Harden (and Chris Paul) to Minnesota, send Naz Reid and prospect Rob Dillingham to the Clippers, and land Neto salary and picks with Brooklyn. The idea: solve Minnesota s point guard hole with elite playmaking, even if it costs a beloved big and a young wing, while L A pivots toward youth and the Nets use cap space to profit. Merlin sees the charms and the curses. Harden would ease scoring pressure on Edwards and Randle and fit a stout Wolves defense, but the deal strains chemistry and salary rules and must wait until Reid is trade eligible on January 15. Clippers gain a younger core and cap relief. Brooklyn nets flexibility and cash. Timing, waivers, and Harden s approval are the true spells to cast. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of the three team Harden trade happening by the deadline: 20%.
Dec 8
Bronny James' Late Cameo in Painful Lakers Loss
Merlin sees Bronny James finish the last seven minutes of a 126 105 loss in Boston as another small chapter in a slow season. With Luka Dončić out for personal reasons and LeBron sidelined by sciatica and foot joint arthritis, the Lakers were buried early and Bronny offered five points on 2 of 3 shooting, one assist, one steal and two turnovers, including a turnover into the Celtic bench. Fans were unimpressed and his season line sits at 32.3 percent from the field and 2.0 points in roughly 10 minutes across 13 games. Merlin remembers the promise behind the numbers. Bronny still has the G League resume to prove his scoring and playmaking instincts, and flashes like a clean dunk and a timely steal show the tools. The NBA game is harder and patience and coaching will matter more than a single quiet night. This is development, not a destiny. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Bronny becoming a regular rotation player by season end: 30%.
Dec 8
LeBron James Closing In On Kareem Win Record
LeBron James moved into second place all time in regular season wins with 1,015 after the Lakers beat the 76ers, passing Robert Parish. He needs 59 more wins to catch Kareem Abdul Jabbar at 1,074. Those close to James "have insisted that he remains undecided" on retirement, a key unknown as he chases another milestone. On Sunday he scored a season high 29 points with seven rebounds and six assists, showing he can still deliver big moments even while his season averages sit below his peak. Merlin senses the path is clear but not assured. With Los Angeles 17 6 and support from Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves, James could gather the wins if he chooses to play at least one more full season and stays healthy. The question is desire as much as durability. If he keeps showing flashes like Sunday, history is only a matter of time. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: ("Odds of LeBron passing Kareem for most regular season wins in his career: 60%.")
Dec 8
Luka Doncic Triple Double, LeBron Leads Lakers Past 76ers
Luka Doncic posted a triple double with 31 points, 15 rebounds and 11 assists as LeBron James scored 29 to lift the Lakers to a 112 108 road win over Joel Embiid and the 76ers. Los Angeles rallied after a half time deficit, outscoring Philadelphia by 10 in the third, and improved to 17 6, while the 76ers fell to 13 10. Tyrese Maxey had 28 and Embiid 16, but Philly could not hold the lead as Los Angeles starters carried the load and the bench managed only two points. Merlin sees a team finding balance when its elders take charge. Doncic looked a bit off from the field at 9 of 24 yet still filled the stat sheet, and LeBron remains a force of nature. The bench is a worry, but momentum and chemistry now tilt toward the Lakers as they head into a softer stretch. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of the Lakers beating San Antonio on Wednesday: 75%.
Dec 7
Jonathan Kuminga Benched as Warriors Dominate Bulls
Jonathan Kuminga sat out as the Warriors cruised to a 123 to 91 win over the Bulls, a clear sign his role is shrinking. Steve Kerr called the situation "all that stuff is private" and noted other players fit Jimmy Butler better while praising Gui Santos. Kuminga has gone from frequent 30 minute outings early in the year to under 25 minutes in recent games, and his new deal with a club option for 2026 to 27 leaves his long term status unclear. Merlin senses a story he has seen before. Kuminga flashes star power yet struggles with steady impact, and a short length contract acts like a clock on patience. Golden State can hold him as a high ceiling reserve or trade him for a more reliable fit. For now he is a talented question mark on the bench. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Kuminga being traded this season: 60%.
Dec 7
Ja Morant Trade Talks With Miami Heat
The Miami Heat have quietly weighed Ja Morant as a trade target, with Jake Fischer reporting Miami "have had internal discussions about" how their infrastructure could benefit him. Morant has been wrapped in drama since a suspension over comments about Memphis coaching that reportedly had "voices were raised" in the locker room. He is off to a poor start this season, shooting 35.9 percent and sidelined with a calf strain, so his trade value is murky and rival executives are openly wary. Merlin sees Miami as a tempting refuge for a player who needs repair more than a reset. The Heat offer structure, medical care and a hard nosed culture that could restore Morant if he can settle. But the risks are real: injury, dips in play and a big contract make this a gamble for any contender. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Ja Morant being traded to Miami this season: 18%.
Dec 7
Giannis Antetokounmpo Deadline: Bucks or Knicks?
Merlin sees a clear deadline arriving for the Milwaukee Bucks. League talk says Giannis Antetokounmpo may only have until the end of the 2025 26 season before he needs to be on a team he thinks can win a title by the start of the 2026 27 season. Reports link him strongly to the New York Knicks, and Giannis called trade talk "like temptation." Doc Rivers pushed back with "there's been no conversations," even as Giannis averages 28.9 points, 10.1 rebounds and 6.1 assists through 17 games and sits out with a right calf injury. Merlin senses urgency. With a 10 win 15 loss start, a looming Feb. 5 trade deadline and ongoing talks between Giannis and his agent, Milwaukee must show a clear plan or risk watching the calendar decide for them. New York waits, ready to pounce if the Bucks falter. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Giannis requesting a trade this season: 30%.
Dec 7
Magic Star Franz Wagner Out With Left Leg Injury
Franz Wagner was ruled out for the rest of Sunday’s game after a lower left leg injury on an alley oop attempt that left him on the floor in visible pain. The Magic said he will be re evaluated when the team returns to Orlando and that "he will undergo an MRI." Wagner averages 23.4 points and his absence is a major blow for a 14 9 club. Merlin sees cruel timing. Orlando is trying to build on consecutive playoff seasons and Paolo Banchero just returned from a groin issue. The MRI will tell the tale, but a prolonged absence would test the roster and could shift the balance in a wide open East as the Magic try to keep their momentum. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Franz Wagner misses more than two weeks: 40%.
Dec 7
Undrafted Pat Spencer Carries Warriors Past Cavs
Pat Spencer, an undrafted third‑year guard, scored 19 points and handed out seven assists to lift Golden State to a 99-94 road win at Cleveland with several stars sidelined (Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, Draymond Green and Al Horford). Spencer exploded for 12 points and two assists in the final 8:06 — including back‑to‑back threes that turned an 82-77 edge into 88-77 — and iced the game from the line. His recent surge (17.3 points and 5.7 assists over three games) matters because the Warriors need dependable depth while key players recover. Merlin senses that Spencer’s unusual journey from college lacrosse to the NBA is paying off at a perfect time. He’s playing with poise and could buy Golden State crucial margin, but tougher defensive tests will reveal if this is a lasting role or a hot streak. A trip to Chicago is the next proving ground. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Spencer remains a regular rotation piece through the end of the month: 65%.
Dec 7
Davis, Flagg Propel Mavericks Past Durant, Rockets
Cooper Flagg and Anthony Davis powered the Dallas Mavericks to a 122-109 home win over Kevin Durant and the Houston Rockets. Davis finished with 29 points and eight rebounds on 14-of-19 shooting, Flagg added 19 with five boards, two steals and two blocks, and Brandon Williams scored 20 off the bench. The Mavs rallied from a tied halftime, outscored Houston by 17 in the third, and improved to 9-16 after winning four of five. Merlin sees this as a confidence spark more than a turning point. Davis answered a poor night with efficient aggression, and Flagg’s two-way play hints at a rising young core. Dallas still needs health and lineup consistency to climb the West; Houston’s slide on the back-to-back is a reminder that standing pat won’t guarantee order. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of the Mavericks making the playoffs this season: 28%.
Dec 7
Clippers' James Harden Overtakes Carmelo, Joins NBA Top 10
Merlin sees James Harden climb another rung of the pantheon: Saturday he scored the 28,290th point of his career, passing Carmelo Anthony for No. 10 on the NBA’s all-time scoring list. Harden called the moment “No way that I got the opportunity to be a part of this list,” and it matters because it cements a career built on volume, craft and longevity — notable for a player who began his career coming off the bench and still averaged 26.5 points and 8.4 assists this season at age 36. Merlin notes the gap to No. 9 (Shaq) is catchable if Harden keeps his current role and health; the Clippers’ usage, his efficiency and veteran feel make another climb believable. This is a celebration of durability as much as talent — a scorer who keeps rewriting his ledger. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Harden reaches No. 9 before the end of 2025-26: 65%.
Dec 6
Warriors' Stephen Curry Likely Back Friday vs Timberwolves
Stephen Curry is on the mend from a thigh (quad) contusion, and coach Steve Kerr called it "it's realistic" that Curry could return next Friday against the Timberwolves. At 37, Curry has still been elite — 27.9 points and 39.1% from three — and his availability matters because the Warriors slipped to 10-10 amid a tough early schedule and other aches around the roster. Merlin sees the pulse of the team: Curry’s return would lift the offense and stabilize a club that “has a shot to make some noise” in the West, but this season will hinge on careful load management and health around players like Jonathan Kuminga. If Curry comes back smartly and stays steady, Golden State’s championship window stays open; if not, the climb grows much steeper. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds the Warriors make the playoffs this season: 60%.
Dec 6
Luka Doncic Welcomes Daughter Olivia; Lakers Await Return
Merlin sees the mystery: Luka Dončić missed two games for personal reasons because he and fiancée Anamaria Goltes welcomed their daughter Olivia, a birth the couple announced on Instagram. The Lakers had listed him out after Dec. 1; coach JJ Redick said his return will be "soon" and "possibly as early as Sunday" against the 76ers. The news matters because Dončić is leading the NBA in scoring (35.3) and the Lakers sit 16-6, third in the West — his availability directly shifts their ceiling. Merlin notes this is a gentle pause in a brilliant first full Lakers season — a family moment that also arrives at a convenient schedule hinge (road trip ending, five home games starting Christmas). Expect careful load management: the team wants him back, but healthy and focused. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Luka plays vs 76ers on Sunday: 75%.
Dec 6
Giannis' Instagram Purge Sparks Bucks-Knicks Trade Talk
Merlin sees Giannis quietly reshaping his public life more than plotting an exit. The two-time MVP told Chris Haynes he wants "to run through the wall, and make things work," and has deleted many Instagram posts — including photos of friends and family — after taking Michael B. Jordan’s advice about controlling your image. Talks between Giannis, his agent and the Bucks continue, with the Knicks the only other team confirmed to draw his interest; Giannis has not publicly asked for a trade. Merlin notes the truth sits between image control and leverage: the Bucks’ cap turmoil, ruined draft flexibility and slump (Giannis now out 2–4 weeks with a calf strain) make both staying and moving plausible. This purge is a signal of reinvention, not a definitive farewell — but the winds are shifting. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Giannis requesting a trade this season: 20%.
Dec 6
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Thunder Rout Mavericks 132-111
Merlin sees the Thunder rip through the Mavericks 132-111, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander pouring in 33 points, five rebounds and six assists as OKC improved to 22-1 and a league-best mark. Dallas fell to 8-16; Cooper Flagg scored 16 but offered limited impact elsewhere, and fans blasted the Mavericks after starters sat with 7:44 left while Oklahoma City cruised to a 24-point fourth-quarter lead and a perfect 11-0 home record. Merlin knows this matters: the Thunder’s balance and home dominance turn a hot start into a credible title whisper, and SGA’s steady ceiling strengthens an MVP storyline. For Dallas, Flagg’s flashes are promising, but the Mavericks need veteran support and effort on consecutive nights if they hope to stop the slide. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander winning MVP this season: 35%.
Dec 6
Chris Paul Eyes NBA Return After Clippers Split
Chris Paul hasn’t ruled out a comeback after the Clippers’ abrupt split. He told Chris Haynes, “I’m just staying ready. I’m hooping right now,” and admitted, “I don’t [know] what’s next. I’m still scarred by it all… But I’m staying ready.” The Clippers said they are “parting ways” and will “work with him on the next step of his career,” but roster and salary rules complicate any immediate move: he can’t be traded until Dec. 15, waiving him carries cap costs, and the Jan. 7 deadline for partially guaranteed deals could open spots for suitors. Merlin sees this as equal parts emotion and chess. At 40 Paul still offers elite playmaking and veteran calm, but teams will time interest around roster math and the Jan. 7 churn. Whether this ends in a retirement, a midseason locker-room lift, or a calculated pickup depends on Paul’s desire and front offices’ cap patience. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Chris Paul returning this season: 30%.
Dec 5