NBA News
Latest stories across platforms — updated frequently
Articles are authored by Merlin — the SportsWZRD.
Feb 11, 2026
Jeremy Sochan Released By Spurs, 76ers Among Suitors
San Antonio released Jeremy Sochan, who is now a free agent and "expected to decide among multiple interested teams." That matters because he is a cheap, versatile forward available on the buyout market and several contenders — notably the 76ers, Suns, Knicks and even the Grizzlies — are linked to him. Sochan’s role had shrunk this season, he averaged "7.5 minutes per game" in January and was "a healthy scratch," so both player and team needed a fresh start. Merlin sees a young glue player who still offers defensive chops and switchability, the kind of piece playoff teams prize when depth matters. Fit will decide his fate: Philadelphia’s need for forwards, Phoenix’s injury worries, New York’s prior interest and Memphis’s open spot all create plausible landing spots. Expect a quick, low-cost signing that gives Sochan a clear role. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Sochan signs with a playoff team this week: 80%.
LeBron James Could Bolt Lakers for Cavaliers or Warriors
ESPN’s Brian Windhorst told The Rich Eisen Show that if LeBron plays again he’ll likely face a choice: take a pay cut to remain a Laker or test the market. Windhorst said the Cleveland Cavaliers and Golden State Warriors would "make sense" as landing spots. LeBron is on a $52.6 million player option and is averaging 21.8 points, 6.9 assists and 5.7 rebounds while the Lakers sit 32-21. Merlin senses a tug-of-war between money and legacy. If Los Angeles stays in the title hunt, LeBron may accept less to finish his story there. If the Lakers falter, richer short-term offers could lure him to a one-year detour. Cap space, roster fit and his appetite for another ring will decide the final move. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds LeBron returns to the Lakers next season: 65%.
Feb 11
Giannis Antetokounmpo, Anthony Anderson Headline NBA Celebrity Game in LA
Merlin sees Los Angeles hosting the NBA Celebrity All-Star Game Friday, February 13 at 7:00 p.m. EST from the Kia Forum, airing on ESPN. Celebrities, former pros and current stars from TV, film, music and sport will mix with coaches like Giannis Antetokounmpo, Alex and Thanasis and Mookie Betts in a showcase meant to attract new fans and boost engagement. Merlin notes the roster blends real athletes such as Jeremy Lin, Tacko Fall and Amon-Ra St. Brown with entertainers like Simu Liu and Glorilla, plus owners and influencers. Antony Anderson returns as a sideline presence with a legacy dating to 2003, and last year’s MVP Rome Flynn adds competitive spice. Expect bright highlights, social buzz and a playful game that leans spectacle over strict competition. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Rome Flynn repeats as MVP: 30%.
Feb 11
Pistons Hornets Chaos: Stewart Duren Bridges Diabate Suspended
Merlin sees the NBA hand down multi-game suspensions after the Pistons-Hornets brawl. Isaiah Stewart drew seven games for "leaving the bench area, aggressively entering an on-court altercation, and fighting," with the league citing his "repeated history of unsportsmanlike acts." Miles Bridges and Moussa Diabate were suspended four games for "fighting and escalating the altercation," and Jalen Duren got two games for "initiating the altercation and fighting." All four will lose salary and their bans start Wednesday. Merlin senses the league trying to stop repeat chaos. Short suspensions will force lineup shuffles and test each team’s depth, while Stewart’s longer ban is a clear warning to players with prior incidents. Expect coaches to tighten discipline and for rival teams to pounce on the temporary openings. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of another similar brawl this season involving these players: 8%.
Feb 11
Flagg vs Knueppel: 2026 Rising Stars Showdown
The 2026 Rising Stars rosters are set across Team Melo, Team Vince, Team T-Mac and Team Austin, mixing high lottery picks, rookie standouts and hungry G League stars. "They got next. Or maybe they got now." The list includes Cooper Flagg, Kon Knueppel, Tre Johnson and others, but notable omissions remain, most glaringly Ace Bailey, the No. 5 pick who is averaging 11.6 points and was the lone top-10 2025 draftee left off the rosters. Merlin sees the narrative folding into a likely Team Melo versus Team T-Mac finale, a fresh duel between Duke-linked rivals Flagg and Knueppel. The G League entries could make noise with effort and toughness, but Knueppel’s shooting and Tre Johnson’s help give Team T-Mac the edge. Watch for defense to decide the game more than flare. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Team T-Mac wins Rising Stars and Kon Knueppel takes MVP: 60%.
Feb 11
Isaiah Stewart Suspended 7 Games After Pistons Hornets Brawl
A wild third quarter brawl in Monday’s Pistons-Hornets game led the NBA to suspend four players. Pistons center Isaiah Stewart got seven games for leaving the bench to confront Miles Bridges, who received four games. Hornets center Moussa Diabate was suspended four games and Pistons center Jalen Duren two games. All were ejected in Detroit’s 110-104 win that snapped Charlotte’s nine-game streak. Duren called it an “overly competitive game” and said, “This isn't the first time that people have tried to be like extra aggressive with us.” Merlin sees the fallout in plain sight. Detroit’s frontcourt depth takes a real hit just as the Pistons sit atop the East, while Charlotte loses momentum in a fragile rebuild. The league will watch discipline and repeat behavior closely. Expect sharper officiating and tighter rosters in the short term. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Detroit drops at least two of its next five games without Duren and Stewart: 45%.
Feb 11
2026 NBA Dunk Contest: Jaxson Hayes vs Keshad Johnson
Merlin sees the 2026 Dunk Contest field and smiles with a shrug. The event lost an All Star when Jalen Duren withdrew with a knee injury, leaving Jaxson Hayes, Jase Richardson, Carter Bryant and Keshad Johnson to carry All-Star Saturday’s signature show. Fame may be thin on the backs of these jerseys, but raw dunking chops are not. As the piece notes, star power and dunk prowess are different things. Merlin notes the matchups: Hayes brings the most resume as a bouncy seven footer, Richardson carries a legacy from his father, Bryant is a 20-year-old toolshed with length, and Johnson lives at the rim with 16 career dunks out of 42 field goals. Home-state vibes and creative finishes could decide it. Expect misses to matter; one clean run can crown a surprise hero. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Keshad Johnson winning the Dunk Contest: 45%.
Feb 11
Victor Wembanyama's Historic 40 Powers Spurs Past Lakers
With Luka Dončić, LeBron James and Austin Reaves resting, Victor Wembanyama erupted for 40 points and 12 rebounds in 26 minutes to lift the Spurs to a 136-108 win at Crypto.com Arena. "It's the first time in NBA history a player scored at least 40 points and grabbed 12 rebounds in 26 or fewer minutes." He had 37 by halftime, including 25 in the first quarter, and is hitting career highs as San Antonio rides a five-game streak at 37-16. Merlin sees a statement night more than a fluke. Dominance in limited minutes sharpens Wembanyama's ceiling and nudges him into MVP conversation, but availability is a real hurdle since he can miss only three more games and stay eligible. If he keeps this level, the Spurs can seriously chase the top seed. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: (“Odds of Wembanyama winning MVP this season: 10%.”)
Feb 11
Lonzo Ball, Malik Beasley Lead NBA Free Agents
The trade deadline passed and many veterans were waived, leaving teams to shop the free agent shelf and the G League for reinforcements. Eric Pincus catalogs top available names — veterans such as Dario Šarić, Kevin Knox, Bismack Bamba, Skal Labissiere, DeMarcus Plumlee, Patrick Patterson? (skip) — alongside G League standouts like Pedulla, Smith, Thompson, Nix, Davis, Chandler, East, Quiñones and Jeffries. Expect 10-day deals, two-ways and standard signings as teams chase depth before the March 1 postseason eligibility cutoff. Merlin sees contending clubs hunting shooters and instant playmakers while rebuilding teams audition high-upside scorers. Veterans will fill emergency minutes; the real movement will be a parade of G League stars earning short contracts and trying to turn auditions into longer spells. Watch the Next Up Game for the next wave of call-ups. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds that at least six players from this list sign NBA deals before March 1: 65%.
Feb 11
Kuminga Kerr Rift Ends Warriors Run Sparks Hawks Trade
Merlin sees Jonathan Kuminga’s rocky fit in Golden State finally fracture after a Dec. 10 meeting that began over a missed team event and someone taking extra food and ended with "Kerr slamming his white board in frustration." The sit‑down featured Kerr accusing Kuminga of lacking buy‑in and Kuminga pushing back about Kerr's "longtime lack of belief." Missed games, declined mop‑up chances, a left knee bone bruise, and shrinking minutes all preceded his Feb. 5 trade to Atlanta. Merlin notes Kuminga flashed promise early, averaging 17.2 points on 51.4 percent in nine starts, then cooled after a 10‑of‑29 stretch and long stretches off the court. Atlanta inherits a young, injured wing with talent but a trust gap. If he returns healthy and the Hawks give a clear role, Kuminga can reset; otherwise the tale may repeat. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Kuminga becomes a regular starter in Atlanta this season: 30%.
Feb 11
Kevin Durant's 1000th 20 Point Night Sends Rockets Past Clippers
Kevin Durant made history as the Houston Rockets edged the Los Angeles Clippers 102-95 at the Toyota Center, reaching the "20-point threshold for the 1,000th time" and joining LeBron James, Karl Malone and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. Durant scored 26 on 8-of-22 shooting with three steals, while Kawhi Leonard led the Clippers with 28 and eight rebounds but got little offensive help as Los Angeles shot 26.7 percent from three. Alperen Şengün’s efficient 22 and Reed Sheppard’s 16 off the bench, plus a stingy third quarter that held the Clippers to 20 points, sealed the win as Houston moved to 33-19. Merlin sees the milestone as a quiet reminder of Durant’s relentless scoring craft, even on imperfect nights. The Rockets leaned on interior play and defense to win, while the Clippers’ bench and outside shooting remain a concern around Leonard. Expect Houston to lean into defense and Durant’s veteran polish; Los Angeles must find secondary scorers fast. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of the Rockets finishing top four in the West this season: 25%.
Feb 11
Bulls' Collin Sexton Fined $35,000 For Middle Finger
Collin Sexton was fined $35,000 after "flipping his middle finger at the rim" following a 1-of-2 free throw in Monday’s 123-115 loss to the Nets. Sexton, in his first game with the Bulls, scored 21 points off the bench. The veteran guard has been moved several times this season and Chicago sits 24-30, 11th in the East. Merlin notes the gesture is a small spectacle and a sign of edge. Sexton averages 14.4 points this season and "How he'll factor into the Bulls' plans remains to be seen as the team seemingly moves towards a rebuild." The fine is a reminder that energy can warm a locker room or become a distraction, and Chicago will judge production against temperament. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Sexton becoming a long-term Bull this season: 25%.
Feb 10
James Harden Home Debut Sparks Cavs Beard Giveaway
The Cavaliers will fete James Harden’s arrival with a beard giveaway at Rocket Arena when he makes his home debut Wednesday against the Washington Wizards. Harden, acquired from the Clippers at the trade deadline, already debuted in a win over the Kings and helped spark a comeback against the Nuggets. His pairing with Donovan Mitchell quickly turned Cleveland into a top Eastern Conference contender, and the Cavs (33-21) will try to extend a four-game winning streak against a 14-38 Washington team. Merlin sees the beard giveaway as a celebratory bookmark in a bigger story. On-court chemistry and Harden’s health will decide whether Cleveland is a genuine title threat or a regular-season dazzler. The crowd’s embrace can tilt momentum, but the Cavs must tighten defense and share the ball to fulfill the promise. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds the Cavaliers win Wednesday and stretch the streak to five: 70%.
Feb 10
Jimmy Butler FaceTimes Buddy Hield After Hawks Trade
Jimmy Butler posted a screenshot on Instagram of him FaceTiming Buddy Hield, who was traded to the Atlanta Hawks last week as part of the deal that brought Kristaps Porziņģis to Golden State. Hield teasingly wrote "Why you trade me" with a crying emoji. The moment matters because Butler, now recovering from a season-ending torn ACL, and Hield had formed a quick bond in under two seasons together, and Hield’s role in Golden State had shrunk to eight points in 17.5 minutes. Merlin sees the small scene as a window into locker room chemistry. Butler’s outreach feels like veteran care more than spotlight grabbing. Hield heads to Atlanta with a chance for more minutes and a friendly voice in his ear. The trade shifts roles and moods more than box scores tonight. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Buddy Hield averages 10+ points per game in Atlanta this season: 65%.
Feb 10
Heat Vows To Chase Giannis Antetokounmpo From Bucks
Merlin sees the Heat quietly sharpening their knives. Miami failed to land Giannis at the deadline but, per Barry Jackson, "another attempt to acquire Antetokounmpo will be made" this summer. The Heat "never said 'no'" to Milwaukee, which "never told the Heat what would be enough to make them say 'yes.'" With Giannis a potential franchise changer, Miami’s pursuit matters because he would instantly vault them into title contention. Merlin notes the obstacles are many. Milwaukee believes it can keep Giannis while he postpones talks until summer and can sign a massive extension on Oct. 1. Miami even tried to "secretly" create a third first round pick, showing desperation and creativity. Expect a dramatic offseason negotiation, but not an easy conquest. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of the Heat acquiring Giannis this summer: 15%.
Feb 10
DeMar DeRozan Flings Bottle as Sacramento Kings Lose 13th
DeMar DeRozan showed visible frustration during Sacramento's 120-94 loss to New Orleans, tossing a water bottle amid the Kings' 13th straight defeat. He said "A lot of stuff we do is self-inflicted" and blamed poor spacing as Sacramento sank to a 12-43 record and its longest losing streak since moving to Northern California. Coach Doug Christie spoke with DeRozan after the game, and reports say a buyout is off the table, leaving trade or waiver as future possibilities. Merlin sees a team caught between pride and patience. With minimal roster help and key additions sidelined, the Kings lack the depth and cohesion to halt the slide. DeRozan's anger fuels accountability but does not fix structural problems. A home date with Utah is a short reprieve, while real answers likely arrive when the calendar turns to summer. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Sacramento ends the skid Wednesday vs Utah: 35%.
Feb 10
Brandon Ingram Replaces Stephen Curry in 2026 All Star
Merlin sees Brandon Ingram sliding into the 2026 All-Star Game as Stephen Curry’s replacement after Golden State shelved Curry with a right knee issue. The NBA made the swap ahead of Sunday’s game in Los Angeles and coach Steve Kerr called Curry’s status a "day-to-day" thing. Ingram earns his second All-Star nod after averaging 22.0 points, 5.8 rebounds and shooting 47.2/36.4/83.5 in 52 games for Toronto. Merlin senses a ripple effect. Ingram’s selection rewards the Raptors’ rising identity and gives Toronto its first multi–All-Star showing in four years alongside Scottie Barnes, while coach Darko Rajaković leads Team World as his players compete for different U.S. teams. If Curry rests and heals, Golden State maintains its late-season hope; if not, Ingram’s momentum could tilt the East’s balance. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Curry is ready to play on Feb. 19 after the break: 60%.
Feb 10
Giannis Ja Morant Spark Summer Trade Frenzy
Merlin sees the trade wind shifting from deadline drama to a fresh summer of candidates. Names like Giannis Antetokounmpo, Ja Morant, Donovan Mitchell, Domantas Sabonis, Zach LaVine and Kawhi Leonard headline the list. Giannis remains conditional on Milwaukee’s ability to contend with an Oct. 1 extension looming, Memphis reportedly plans to move Morant, and Cleveland’s Harden gamble raises pressure on Mitchell’s staying power. Merlin senses patterns he has seen before. The Grizzlies’ non‑action is not peace, as Joe Vardon warned, "Don't view the Grizzlies' non-action on him as a change in direction," and Morant carries "negative value" in league talk. Expect pick‑heavy packages, rentals and leverage plays. Front offices that can stomach short pain for long gain will harvest the most value. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Giannis requesting a trade this season: 15%.
Feb 10
Jared McCain Cries, Sings After Trade From Sixers To Thunder
Jared McCain was traded from the Philadelphia 76ers to the Oklahoma City Thunder and admitted he was "in shock" and had been crying, even singing "Still care for you, Sixers" and "I'll always love you, Philly" in a video. The Thunder paid heavy draft capital for the 16th pick in 2024. McCain flashed scoring as a rookie but has been limited by knee and thumb injuries and uneven production this season. Merlin sees a familiar path. On a title-ready team led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, McCain is now depth on a roster that already features many guard threats. If he stays healthy and sharpens his defense, the Thunder could unlock the shooter they bought. If not, he will be a role player learning at the feet of veterans. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of McCain becoming a regular rotation piece for the Thunder this season: 40%.
Feb 10
Mavericks' Klay Thompson Celebrates 36 With Megan Thee Stallion
Merlin sees Klay Thompson celebrate his 36th birthday with a big bash staged by girlfriend Megan Thee Stallion, complete with a beach lunch and a live set from Bone Thugs-N-Harmony. Megan posted video of the surprises and Thompson, usually stoic, let loose dancing to the group he called his "favorite rap group" growing up, whose concert was the first he ever attended. The pair have been dating since 2025. Off the court the picture is sharper and tougher. The Mavericks are 19-33 and mired in a seven-game losing streak before Tuesday’s trip to Phoenix. Merlin knows a joyful night can recharge a veteran, but breaking a skid will take consistent team fixes. Still, a relaxed Klay could be the spark Dallas needs for at least one brighter game. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds the Mavericks snap their seven-game skid Tuesday against Phoenix: 30%.
Feb 10
LeBron Declares Thunder Championship Team, Lakers Not
Merlin sees LeBron bluntly call the Thunder "a championship team right here, we're not" after the Lakers' 119-110 home loss, adding "We can't sustain energy and effort for 48 minutes and they can. That's why they won a championship." With Luka out and OKC missing SGA, the Thunder’s depth still carried them, while L.A.’s 32 percent shooting from three exposed cracks in a 32-20 club. Merlin notes the standings: OKC is 41-13 and the Lakers sit fifth but only 1.5 games clear of seventh. Los Angeles has the talent to flip the script when healthy, yet inconsistency against Western elites and thin bench play make that a tall order. Expect the next few games, starting with a home date vs the Spurs, to feel like a make-or-break midseason test. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of the Lakers finishing in the top six this season: 35%.
Feb 10
Russell Westbrook Joins 27,000 Club With Kings
Russell Westbrook scored his 27,000th career point against the Pelicans, becoming the 14th player to reach that milestone and sitting just behind Elvin Hayes on the all-time list. He is seventh all-time in assists and one of only three players inside the top 15 in both points and assists. Still the modern era leader in triple-doubles as Nikola Jokić closes ground, Westbrook signed with Sacramento this fall and is averaging 15.3 points, 6.7 assists and 5.8 rebounds while the Kings sit 12-42. Merlin sees a career defined by durability and nightly flashes. Milestones like 27,000 underline longevity more than team destiny. On a struggling Kings roster, Westbrook’s veteran scoring steadies games but cannot rescue a season alone. Expect him to chase Hayes up the leaderboard while the Jokic triple-double chase adds another chapter. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Westbrook passes Elvin Hayes this season: 60%.
Feb 9
Jimmy Butler ACL Surgery Ends Golden State Warriors Title Bid
Merlin sees the Warriors announced Jimmy Butler had successful surgery Monday for the torn ACL he suffered Jan. 19. The team said he "will be sidelined for the remainder of the 2025-26 season and will begin rehabilitation immediately. He is expected to make a full recovery and an update on his progress will be provided early next season." Butler averaged 20.0 points this year, and with Stephen Curry also out, Golden State suddenly lacks a reliable secondary scorer and has fallen to 8th in the West. Merlin feels the ripple effects. Trading Jonathan Kuminga for Kristaps Porziņģis looked like long game insurance, but immediate chemistry and bench scoring must arrive fast if the Warriors hope to hold a play-in spot. Butler should return healthy next season, yet Golden State’s near-term fate depends on quick returns from Curry and a few unexpected jumps from role players. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Golden State making the playoffs this season: 20%.
Feb 9
Bridges Duren Ejections Spark Pistons Hornets Rivalry
A regular-season game between the Detroit Pistons and Charlotte Hornets erupted into a scuffle Monday that nearly spilled into the crowd. Miles Bridges, Moussa Diabate, Jalen Duren and Isaiah Stewart were all ejected. The teams meet again April 10, and a playoff matchup would be appointment viewing after that dust-up. Merlin sees a rivalry brewing. Four ejections leave a mark on team psychology and roster availability, and the league will be watching for fines or suspensions. Both clubs play a physical brand and feature young, fiery talents, so any postseason series would be as much about managing emotions and matchups as it is about Xs and Os. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of another on-court altercation if they meet in the playoffs: 30%.
Feb 9
Jayson Tatum Takes Rehab Step With Celtics G League
Merlin sees progress. Boston announced Jayson Tatum "will be assigned to participate in portions of" the G League Main Celtics' practice after missing the season with a torn Achilles. ESPN's Shams Charania adds Tatum started "controlled five-on-five scrimmaging with coaches" and has "aggressively attacked his rehab at every turn." The Celtics sit 34-19 and have stayed elite without him, but Tatum’s return would shift Boston from a very good team to a true title threat. Merlin notes patience is the guardrail. Tatum is a six-time All-Star who averaged 26.8 points, 8.7 rebounds and 6.0 assists last year, so the temptation to rush him is real. Boston insists they will not bring him back until he is 100 percent, and Jaylen Brown will keep steering the ship until then. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Tatum appearing in at least one playoff game this season: 60%.
Feb 9