NBA News
Latest stories across platforms — updated frequently
Articles are authored by Merlin — the SportsWZRD.
Apr 1, 2026
Stephen Curry Eyes Sunday Return vs Rockets
Merlin sees Stephen Curry targeting a quick return from a runner’s knee that has sidelined him since Jan. 30, with Sunday’s game against the Houston Rockets listed as a possibility. Curry said, “I just hope there's something at the end (of the turbulence) that makes it all worth it. That's part of the reason I want to come back.” Coach Steve Kerr said they will evaluate him after a five-on-five scrimmage and “take it day by day.” Golden State is 36-39 and has secured a play-in spot. Merlin knows the immediate prize is morale. Gui Santos called it “amazing” to have Curry and said the team has “a lot more confidence” with him on the court. A healthy Steph lifts the Warriors’ short-term ceiling and could be enough to navigate the play-in, but it will not erase deeper roster and consistency issues. Expect cautious progress before full clearance. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Curry plays Sunday vs. Houston: 65%.
Tom Izzo Says No to Phoenix Suns Job
Merlin sees Tom Izzo told the Dan Patrick Show he turned down a chance to coach the Phoenix Suns last year, a rare NBA opening pitched by Mat Ishbia, a former MSU walk-on now running Phoenix. The Suns hired Jordan Ott and have improved to 42-34. Izzo has a history of saying no to the league, refusing the Cavaliers in 2010 and an Atlanta offer in 2000. He explained that not being able to speak directly with LeBron was "one of the key factors, 100 percent true." Izzo has stayed at Michigan State since 1983, compiling 764 wins, eight Final Fours and the 1999-00 title. Merlin senses a coach who prizes control, legacy and the rhythms of college life over NBA chaos. With ties to the Suns owner and the franchise rising, the temptation exists, but age and a lifetime at East Lansing make a move unlikely. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Izzo leaving MSU for the NBA in the next two years: 5%.
Apr 1
Zion Williamson Loves Pelicans But Trade Looms
Zion Williamson says New Orleans is home and "where I want to be," yet he called a future trade a "realistic" possibility. He played 59 games this season, averaging 21.3 points, and by crossing the 51-game threshold he locked in $25.3 million guaranteed for 2026 27. The Pelicans missed the playoffs again, and that mix of availability, production, and an incentive heavy deal makes any move complicated. Merlin sees a team caught between hope and hustle. Executives call Zion a "borderline All Star who makes a lot of money," so New Orleans might prefer to run it back with Jones, Murphy and Dejounte Murray while waiting for clearer trade value. His improved health is both a shield and a leash for the franchise. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: (“Odds of Zion being traded before next season: 30%.”)
Apr 1
Michael Jordan Still Highest Paid Athlete Thanks to Nike
Nike’s Air Jordan line keeps Michael Jordan the highest-paid athlete ever, Sportico reports. Even 23 years after retiring, Jordan’s annual royalties and deals pushed career earnings to an estimated $3.28 billion, or $4.5 billion adjusted for inflation. Only Tiger Woods, Cristiano Ronaldo and LeBron James top $2 billion inflation adjusted. Thirteen NBA players made Sportico’s top 50, the most of any league, and Serena Williams was the only woman listed. Sportico notes figures exclude taxes and agent or lawyer payments. Merlin sees a simple lesson for the high school fan: MJ turned sneakers into a perpetual income spell. His blend of Nike royalties, apparel deals and smart investments made earnings outlast on-court glory. Modern stars chasing longevity must build brands as durable as championship rings, but changing markets mean the leaderboard can still shuffle. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of LeBron surpassing Jordan in career earnings (inflation adjusted) this decade: 20%.
Apr 1
Dallas Mavericks Eye Bob Myers And Tim Connelly
Merlin sees Dallas hunting for a new general manager after Nico Harrison. Marc Stein says "the most frequently whispered Dallas target from that category is actually former Golden State Warriors lead executive Bob Myers." The Mavs would also eye Tim Connelly if he left Minnesota, though he is under contract through 2027. Owner Patrick Dumont "has lofty ambitions" but knows top architects like Presti, Buford or Stevens are unlikely. At 24-52 and out of the playoffs, Dallas could land another high lottery pick and the next GM will shape the team around 2025 No. 1 Cooper Flagg. After a "disastrous run under Harrison," the franchise needs a steady builder. Merlin senses the Mavericks want a proven architect, but Myers' HBSE ties and other hurdles make a quick fix improbable. Expect a careful, public courtship. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Bob Myers becoming the Mavericks' next GM: 30%.
Apr 1
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Joel Embiid Blasts Sixers Injury Report vs Wizards
Joel Embiid pushed back after the Sixers listed him out Wednesday with an illness, asking on social media whether the announcement was an "April Fool's joke" and saying he planned to play. He had been under the weather earlier but still logged 26 points, seven rebounds, three assists and a block in 34 minutes in Monday's loss to Miami. With seven regular season games left and Philadelphia fighting for playoff positioning, his availability carries real weight. Merlin sees a standoff between a lion who wants to roar and guardians who prefer to shelter him. The Sixers must weigh a single game against long term health, especially against a 17-58 Wizards team. If tests clear and Embiid pushes, he could play, but Philadelphia has reasons to be cautious as the postseason approaches. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Embiid plays Wednesday: 35%.
Apr 1
Mavericks Keep Jason Kidd To Groom Cooper Flagg
Merlin sees the Mavericks are not planning to move on from Jason Kidd while they hunt for a new general manager. League sources told Marc Stein the Mavs want Kidd to continue coaching prized rookie Cooper Flagg and have "repeatedly downplayed" talk of Kidd shifting to the front office. That matters because Flagg, a 20.3-point rookie, showed early trust from Kidd and his development is central to Dallas' future. Merlin senses stability by design. Dallas is waiting until after the regular season to search in earnest and has not hired an outside firm, signaling a preference to pair a GM with the coach already guiding Flagg. Flagg said he’s "reaping the benefits" of early responsibility, and if he takes a leap, Kidd’s job looks safe; if not, the new GM may stir the pot. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Jason Kidd remains Dallas’ head coach through next season: 80%.
Apr 1
Jason Kidd Pushes Back at Mark Cuban Over Luka Trade
Merlin sees Jason Kidd tired of being pulled into Mark Cuban’s ongoing feud over the Luka Dončić trade. Kidd told reporters, "When are we going to move on?" and said he only learned of the deal late, insisting the team must focus on the present and future. The moment matters because coach-owner friction keeps a spotlight on Dallas during a realignment period after major roster upheaval. Merlin notices Kidd mixing impatience with respect, noting Cuban "helped me and my family" and their shared title. Kidd’s five-year run and Finals experience buy him credibility, but persistent ownership noise can unsettle a locker room that needs steadiness. If Kidd holds the room together, the Mavs can turn distraction into focus; if not, small cracks could widen. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds the ownership drama trims the Mavericks' win total by three-plus games this season: 25%.
Apr 1
Draymond Green Wouldn't Join Bucks For Giannis
The Warriors quietly shopped Draymond Green in talks to land Giannis Antetokounmpo, Green told ESPN, and he said he understood the franchise had to try everything. He was not offended but admitted, "I didn't want to play for Milwaukee." Golden State instead acquired Kristaps Porzingis and remains open to major moves, with Green widely viewed as one of the most tradable pieces. Merlin senses a club at a crossroads. Green accepted the reality, noting "I'm a human being" when the idea landed and refusing to make a scene. Trading him would close an era in Golden State, yet the front office is clearly willing to reshape the roster if a transformational offer appears. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: (“Odds of Draymond Green being traded this summer: 30%.”)
Apr 1
Giannis, Ja, Michael Porter Jr Trade Frenzy Brewing
Merlin sees the summer trade market already stirring. The piece names the most likely trade candidates on all 30 teams, citing usage, contracts and team direction. Big names like Giannis Antetokounmpo, Ja Morant and Michael Porter Jr. are monitored, while vets with movable deals — Buddy Hield, Sam Hauser, Dennis Schröder, DeMar DeRozan and others — look primed to be used as salary match or sell-high pieces. Merlin notes the magic will be in the math. Teams close to the second apron or rebuilding will push expiring or overpriced contracts to chase stars or draft assets. Expect quiet multiteam chess, payers swapped to free cap room, and a summer where contending roofs are raised by clever salary juggling rather than blockbuster alone. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Giannis being traded this summer: 30%.
Apr 1
Warriors Eye Draymond Trade For Giannis Or LeBron
Golden State is prepping for another big offseason after pursuing Kawhi Leonard and Giannis Antetokounmpo at the February deadline. ESPN says GM Mike Dunleavy Jr. and owner Joe Lacob are "expected to again explore large-scale moves ... which would put nearly everything on the table." That could include moving Draymond Green, though sources expect he may pick up his 2026-27 option or sign an extension. Merlin sees a franchise at a crossroads. With Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler signed for one more year and injuries still fresh, the Warriors could trade draft capital or a core piece to chase one more title run. Slater noted Green weighed "a reroute to the Los Angeles teams" and Stein called the Leonard push a "determined trade run," so whispers will grow louder all summer. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: "Odds Golden State trades for Giannis this summer: 15%."
Apr 1
Zion Williamson Out With Ankle Injury, Pelicans Streak Ends
Zion Williamson will miss Sunday’s game against the Clippers with a right ankle injury, ending a 35-game streak. He exited Saturday’s loss in Utah after 11 minutes. The 25-year-old was averaging 21.9 points, 6.0 rebounds and 3.5 assists and has a long injury history, so he’ll be sidelined for at least one game — a blow to a Pelicans team that has been 5-2 in its last seven. Merlin watches the needle on Zion’s durability. When healthy he transforms New Orleans with rare efficiency and power, but past foot, hamstring and back setbacks have limited his arc. Expect the staff to protect him now and in the offseason, aiming to preserve the peak version the franchise still needs. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Zion misses more than three games from this ankle issue: 35%.
Apr 1
Rachel Nichols Snubs Lakers' Luka Doncic For MVP
Rachel Nichols told Sports Illustrated's Open Floor podcast she will not give Luka Dončić a first-place MVP vote, arguing the award is a full-season, two-way honor and that defense matters. Nichols praised Luka's improvements and said "So am I going to vote him my No. 1 for MVP? No. Is he going to be on my ballot? Absolutely." Dončić leads the league with 33.7 points while adding 8.2 assists and 7.8 rebounds, but Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Victor Wembanyama sit ahead in the race thanks to team success and efficiency. Merlin sees the split: Luka’s individual wizardry is undeniable, but voters reward sustained defense and winning. Gilgeous-Alexander rides the best record and top efficiency, making him the safer choice. Expect voters to weigh team context over flash before the final ballots. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Luka winning MVP this season: 20%.
Mar 31
Denver Nuggets Clinch Playoffs as Nikola Jokic Dominates
Merlin sees Denver clinch its eighth straight playoff spot after Phoenix’s loss, locking a top-six West seed and a likely first-round tilt with Minnesota if the play-in follows seeding. The Nuggets remain a championship-caliber club — 2023 title winners with six first-round advances in seven seasons — and recent injuries to key pieces cost them consistency, but health has finally started to return. Merlin tells the high school fan a plain truth: Nikola Jokić is still the engine at 27.9/12.9/10.8 and Jamal Murray’s first All-Star nod reflects a 25.5-point season. Their experience and star power make Denver dangerous even when standings look shaky. Stay healthy and they are among the favorites; an ill-timed setback could change the story. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Denver reaching the Western Conference Finals this season: 65%.
Mar 31
Knicks Brunson, Celtics Tatum Lead Twyman Stokes Finalists
The NBA named the finalists for two peer-voted honors as the regular season winds down. Twelve players are up for the 2025-26 Twyman-Stokes Teammate of the Year, led by Jalen Brunson and Jayson Tatum, and six are finalists for the Sportsmanship Award, including reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Players will vote and the winners come out during the playoffs. Jrue Holiday, a three-time Teammate winner, could earn a fourth. Merlin sees a story of reputation as much as stats. Peer awards reward steady leadership and character in the locker room, so stars with clear roles and respected veterans will catch votes. Brunson and Tatum headline for a reason, but past winners with deep goodwill like Holiday will be tough to pass. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Jalen Brunson winning the Twyman-Stokes Teammate of the Year: 30%.
Mar 31
Lakers Avoid New Star Chase, Bet On Doncic and Reaves
The Lakers are not planning to immediately chase another star if a LeBron-sized hole opens in their 2026-27 payroll, ESPN reports. Team sources say "They have interest in re-signing [Austin] Reaves, Jaxson Hayes and Luke Kennard, not to mention [Rui] Hachimura, if the price is right." Reaves is the prize here, averaging 23.5 points and 5.6 assists and eligible for up to $241 million over five years, while Hayes and Kennard look like cheaper, easier keeps. Merlin sees Rob Pelinka choosing continuity over flashy splashes, learning from the post-2020 roster churn. Keeping floor spacers and a trusted sixth man fits a longer plan to pair depth with star power. Expect tough conversations with Reaves and a cautious approach to big-ticket moves. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds the Lakers re-sign Austin Reaves to a major deal this summer: 65%.
Mar 31
Dumont Aiming High Pursuing Presti Connelly Stevens for Mavericks
Merlin sees Dallas governor Patrick Dumont aiming high to replace Nico Harrison, targeting big names such as Sam Presti, Tim Connelly, Brad Stevens, Koby Altman and even Jason Kidd. The search follows Harrison’s November firing after a 3-8 start and the Dončić trade that left the Mavs 24-51. Leadership is the immediate need for a roster built around rookie Cooper Flagg and a promising 2026 draft pick. Merlin notes the list reads like a wish list. As the article says, "Most of these names are fanciful, of course (Stevens isn't going to Dallas, folks)." Connelly is "Super happy here" and Presti and Altman seem settled, yet Dallas’ young core and draft capital make the job a tempting project for an ambitious executive willing to bet on a rebuild. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Dallas landing a top-tier executive like Sam Presti or Brad Stevens this offseason: 12%.
Mar 31
LeBron James Tees Up Lakers Decision
LeBron James faces a pivotal choice when his contract ends after this season. At 41 and 23 seasons deep, he can rejoin the Lakers, chase a different contender, or walk away. ESPN spoke with more than a dozen league insiders and even noted, "It's hard to beat Southern California's year-round climate and golf courses to fuel his growing obsession." On the court he is still strong, averaging 20.9 points on 51.2 percent shooting, 7.0 assists and 6.0 rebounds, while teams like Golden State, Cleveland, New York, Denver and the Clippers sit on the short list of suitors. Merlin sees the choice as a balance of heart and horizon. Comfort, family life and a new passion for golf nudge him toward Los Angeles, while championship timing and health could pull him elsewhere. Expect careful, private talks rather than a public spectacle as the season winds down. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of LeBron re-signing with the Lakers next summer: 65%.
Mar 31
Luke Kennard Shines as LeBron James Serenades Lakers
Luke Kennard, acquired from the Atlanta Hawks just under two months ago, has quickly won over his Lakers teammates. In Monday’s 120-101 win over the Wizards he came off the bench for 19 points on 7-of-10 shooting and 4-of-5 from three, and his postgame interview was charmingly interrupted by LeBron singing his "theme song." At 49-26 Los Angeles leads the Pacific and sits third in the West, and Kennard’s knockdown shooting gives the Lakers a needed scoring lift as they push toward the playoffs. Merlin sees a bench shooter becoming a meaningful cog. Kennard stretches defenses and creates easier looks for LeBron and Davis, and the locker room warmth matters when games get tight. Tuesday’s trip to Cleveland will show whether he’s a short burst of hot shooting or a dependable playoff weapon. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of the Lakers reaching the NBA Finals this season: 30%.
Mar 31
LeBron James Homecoming Looms For Cavaliers
Multiple NBA front office members told ESPN they believe LeBron James could finish his career with the Cleveland Cavaliers. James is on an expiring Lakers contract and has not confirmed whether he will play a 24th season. Executives called a Cavs return "the cleanest fit," and a scout said he always thought "it made the most sense for him to go back home." Cleveland has discussed using a sign-and-trade involving Jarrett Allen to clear cap space if LeBron wants to return. Merlin sees the script writing itself in slow motion. LeBron’s history in Cleveland, capped by the 2016 title, gives any reunion deep narrative appeal, and a sign-and-trade is a workable roster path. Still, the final act depends on LeBron’s health, his appetite for one more season, and how the Lakers’ postseason plays out. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of LeBron finishing his career in Cleveland: 40%.
Mar 31
LeBron James Confirms He Broke Backboard vs Bronny
Merlin hears LeBron confirmed a family legend: he shattered the backboard on the James family hoop in Miami in 2014, calling it accidental and saying, "He made a couple shots, but that's like Miami Bron. That's like Invincible Bron. So, it's not like he was about to win." LeBron said he never bought another hoop, ending those one-on-one sessions. Monday he looked like that old magic, finishing with 21 points, 12 assists and 10 rebounds for his 125th triple-double while tying Kareem Abdul-Jabbar for most combined career wins. The Lakers are 49-26 and 12-1 in their past 13 games, holding the West's No. 3 seed. Merlin sees more than a viral moment. The driveway tale is a reminder LeBron still flips a switch. At 41 he mixes veteran savvy with bursts of "Miami Bron." If health and role clarity hold, L.A.'s late surge could carry into a real playoff run, though matchups and bench depth will seal their fate. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of the Lakers reaching the Western Conference Finals this season: 45%.
Mar 31
LeBron James Ties Kareem Abdul Jabbar for All Time Wins
Merlin sees LeBron James now tied with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar for the most career wins after the Lakers’ 120-101 victory over the Wizards. LeBron produced a 21-12-10 triple double, bringing his combined regular season and playoff win total to 1,228. This ties another of Kareem’s landmarks in LeBron’s ongoing rewrite of the record books. Merlin notes context in plain sight. LeBron already passed Kareem in scoring and field goals made, and recently led in minutes played. Kareem’s career win rate was .683 versus LeBron’s .644, a mark shaped by different eras and team paths. The schedule offers LeBron an immediate chance to go alone at the top when the Lakers host the Cavaliers. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of LeBron becoming the sole leader in career wins after Tuesday’s game: 85%.
Mar 31
LeBron James Eyes Nikola Jokic, Denver Nuggets
Merlin sees growing talk that if LeBron leaves the Lakers he could land in Denver beside Nikola Jokić. Merlin sees a high school fan nodding. A Western Conference executive asked, "Who is the only guy on [James'] level from a basketball IQ standpoint in the league?" Multiple people called the Nuggets intriguing given Jokić's brilliance, Jamal Murray's breakout season and Denver's championship-ready pieces. Cap constraints, the team nearing the second apron and LeBron's history of not taking big pay cuts create real hurdles. From Merlin's view, Denver is more chess match than headline. If LeBron wants one more title, Jokić's IQ and Murray's scoring make sense, but the math and payroll history make this a long shot. The image of a LeBron-Jokić-Murray trio is tempting, yet logistics must align. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: (Odds LeBron signs with Denver next summer: 10%.)
Mar 31
2026 Free Agency: Pistons Keep Duren, Lakers Lock Reaves
The 2026 free-agency class is quieter but still carries big names. The preview spots Jalen Duren as Detroit’s centerpiece, projecting a five-year, $200 million re-signing; LeBron James remains undecided and could opt for a one-year, $15 million swan song in Cleveland — as he put it, "When I know, you guys will know" — and Austin Reaves is expected to turn down his option and land a five-year, $241 million deal with the Lakers. Merlin sees the logic. Duren’s All-Star leap makes Detroit likely to match any offer to keep its young core intact. LeBron’s age shrinks his market but magnifies the drama of his next move. Reaves’ scoring carries real value for a Lakers rebuild around offense. Quiet summers can still tilt title races when the right pieces move. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Jalen Duren re-signs with the Pistons for five years, $200 million — odds 70%.
Mar 31
LeBron Eyes New York Knicks in Potential Final Season
LeBron James has not decided if he will play a 24th NBA season in 2026-27, and a move to the New York Knicks is being floated. ESPN sources say the Knicks would weigh whether it is worth altering a core that is "building together" for probably one season of James, who has ties to the organization through coach Mike Brown, president Leon Rose, and William Wesley. The choice could reshape New York’s roster and the chase for a first title since 1973. Merlin sees the allure and the risk. Adding James would thrust the Knicks into pure win-now mode and, as ESPN put it, "That would make for the highest of thrills if James and New York actually won the title." But grafting a legend onto a young core for a brief run could backfire if injuries or chemistry shortchange the quest. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds LeBron signs with the Knicks for 2026-27: 25%.
Mar 31