2026-27 NBA season opens with roster moves and international plans

Ernie Johnson Announces 2026-27 as Final Season on Inside the NBA

Ernie Johnson, 70, announced the 2026-27 season as his last hosting Inside the NBA after 37 years.

95 sources

Thunder's Jalen Williams Stretchered Off With Leg Injury

Jalen Williams was stretchered off with a left-leg injury with 1:15 left in the Thunder's 108-101 win over the Clippers on Oct. 25, 2026; no official diagnosis was issued.

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Naz Reid posts career-best start with Hornets

Naz Reid has made an immediate impact as a Charlotte starter after being traded from Minnesota, averaging 20 points and 8.7 rebounds through his first three games in a much-expanded role. He was listed as probable for Monday’s game against Washington with an illness, while analysts pointed to his recent scoring surge as evidence of his increased opportunity.

27 sources

Trail Blazers Rally Past Lakers, Improve to 3-0

The unbeaten Portland Trail Blazers visit the unbeaten Los Angeles Lakers in an early-season matchup featuring two high-scoring offenses. Preview and betting coverage differs on the likely pace: some expect a defensive, lower-scoring game, while others favor the Lakers and a high total; Portland guard Scoot Henderson is questionable with an ankle issue.

65 sources

Kuminga Faces Warriors for First Time

The Timberwolves host the Warriors, with Jonathan Kuminga facing his former team for the first time after a reportedly strained stint in Golden State; Minnesota’s recent form and the Warriors’ defensive struggles are key storylines. A separate report says the Knicks beat the previously undefeated Pistons 111-97, powered by Karl-Anthony Towns’ 27 points and 20 rebounds.

30 sources

Pritchard Scores 28, Celtics Beat Bulls 134-99

Payton Pritchard snapped out of a slow start with 28 points off the bench, including seven 3-pointers, as the Boston Celtics routed the Chicago Bulls 134-99. Jayson Tatum added 23 points, seven rebounds and six assists in Boston’s second win of the season.

37 sources

Knicks Earn First Win, Beat Pistons 111-97

The undefeated Detroit Pistons visit the winless defending-champion New York Knicks, who are trying to end an 0-3 start marked by late-game collapses and offensive struggles. Detroit has opened 3-0 with strong play from Cade Cunningham and its supporting cast, but will be without center Jalen Duren as the teams meet at Madison Square Garden.

95 sources

Anthony Edwards to Miss Up to Two Months After Knee Surgery

Anthony Edwards is questionable for Minnesota’s game against Cleveland because of right-knee management after scoring 26 points in Sunday’s win. The unbeaten Timberwolves may rest their star guard during the second night of a back-to-back, with Ayo Dosunmu and Terrence Shannon Jr. potential beneficiaries if he sits.

104 sources

Mavericks Hand Thunder First Loss of Season

Kyrie Irving is questionable for the Mavericks’ game against the Thunder as Dallas manages his left knee. His possible absence comes as rookie Sergio De Larrea’s 21-point performance and Marcus Sasser’s strong early play have eased concerns about the team’s point-guard depth.

Hornets to retire Muggsy Bogues No. 1 jersey as third honoree

The Charlotte Hornets will retire Muggsy Bogues’ No. 1 jersey, honoring the 5-foot-3 former point guard as the third player in franchise history to receive the tribute. Bogues, an original Hornet and the team’s all-time leader in assists and steals, will be honored at halftime of a Feb. 11 game against Milwaukee.

26 sources

Wizards Hold Off Bulls Rally, Win 124-120

Wizards hold off Bulls 124-120 after a 40-20 third; Wilson’s first double-double (30 and 14) fuels a late cut to three before free throws seal it.

44 sources

Tatum's 40 seals Celtics' 125-124 overtime win

Jayson Tatum scored 40 and hit a 17-foot jumper at the OT buzzer as the Celtics beat the Nets 125-124 on Oct. 27, 2026, for their third straight win.

42 sources

Curry stays perfect from field as Warriors rout Nuggets for first win

Stephen Curry went 8-for-8 from the field and scored 24 points, while rookie Yaxel Lendeborg added 31 points and 12 rebounds as Golden State beat Denver 134-114 for its first win of the season. The Warriors pulled away after halftime, leaving the Nuggets unable to recover from a large deficit.

40 sources

Spurs Rout Kings 130-103 Behind 80-Point Half

The San Antonio Spurs routed the Sacramento Kings 130-103, building an 80-point first half and a 26-point halftime lead in a dominant offensive performance. Victor Wembanyama scored 29 points with 10 rebounds, Julian Champagnie added 26 with eight first-half 3-pointers, and Sacramento fell to 0-4.

33 sources

Mavericks Beat Heat 113-109 as Flagg Returns

Cooper Flagg’s over 21.5 points is a conditional pick for Dallas against Miami, recommended only if he is cleared to play without a minutes restriction; otherwise, the advice is to pass. The Mavericks and Heat are scheduled to meet Monday at 7:30 p.m. ET.

77 sources

Jokić Joins Westbrook as Only Second Player With 200 Triple-Doubles

Nikola Jokić recorded his 200th career regular-season triple-double with 21 points, 13 rebounds and 10 assists as Denver beat New Orleans 104-91. He is the second player to reach the milestone, behind Russell Westbrook’s record of 209.

21 sources

Timberwolves beat Raptors 117-94, move to 3-0

The Minnesota Timberwolves improved to 3-0 with a 117-94 rout of the Toronto Raptors, led by Anthony Edwards’ 26 points and a 35-point third quarter. LaMelo Ball added 15 points in his home debut, while Toronto played without Kawhi Leonard, who was sidelined by left-knee swelling.

44 sources

Meleek Thomas Scores 16 in Cavaliers OT Win

Meleek Thomas scored 16 points in his NBA debut, helping Cleveland rally from a 10-point halftime deficit to beat Minnesota 127-125 in overtime. Donovan Mitchell led the Cavaliers with 25 points, while Thomas’s confident shooting and energy made an immediate impact off the bench.

24 sources

Lakers rout Clippers 103-87 behind balanced scoring

The Lakers beat the Clippers 103-87 for their second win over their crosstown rivals in a week, despite Luka Doncic sitting out with back tightness. Los Angeles forced 24 turnovers and got 23 points from Quentin Grimes and 21 from Collin Sexton, while rookie Keaton Wagler led the Clippers with 21 points.

Tatum scores 36, Celtics beat Knicks 107-103

Jayson Tatum scored 25 of his 36 points in the second half in Boston's 107-103 win over the Knicks at TD Garden.

43 sources

Rockets Set for Hawks Matchup Amid Three-Game Streak

Oklahoma City, coming off a win over the Clippers, faces Phoenix with Jalen Williams injured and other players’ availability uncertain. Houston and Atlanta meet after close and lopsided wins, respectively, with Fred VanVleet set to miss the game and Marcus Smart listed as questionable.

Rockets improve to 5-0, rout Bucks 132-100

Fred VanVleet scored 24 points, including 15 straight in the third quarter, as Houston routed Milwaukee 132-100 to improve to 5-0. Amen Thompson added 23 points, helping the Rockets dominate despite missing key players.

Barnes Leads Raptors Past Magic 129-99

Scottie Barnes scored 28 points and RJ Barrett added 25 as the Toronto Raptors routed the Orlando Magic 129-99, improving to 3-1 despite Kawhi Leonard’s absence with a knee injury. Tristan da Silva led Orlando with 20 points.

No. 1 Florida Hosts Stetson in Exhibition

Top-ranked Florida hosted Stetson in its final preseason exhibition, using the matchup to prepare for its 2026-27 opener against No. 14 Miami after an overtime loss to Baylor in its first tune-up. The game offered the Gators a last chance to address issues before the regular season begins.

11 sources

Jazz Forwards Markkanen, Jackson Exit Injured

Utah forwards Lauri Markkanen and Jaren Jackson Jr. both suffered injuries in the first half against Memphis and were ruled out for the game. Markkanen injured his right wrist, while Jackson hurt his right knee; their availability for upcoming games remains uncertain.

45 sources

Caruso Exits With Ankle Sprain as Thunder Face Multiple Injuries

Thunder guard Alex Caruso left Monday’s game against the Suns with a right ankle sprain and was ruled out for the remainder. His injury adds to Oklahoma City’s depleted roster, with Jalen Williams and Cason Wallace sidelined after injuries requiring surgery and Chet Holmgren also out.

18 sources

Luka Dončić Scores 52, Lakers Rally Past Jazz

Luka Dončić scored 52 points as the Lakers erased an 18-point deficit to beat the Jazz 132-123 and start 3-0.

96 sources

Suns’ Ighodaro Out Against Thunder, Day-to-Day

Suns center Oso Ighodaro is day-to-day with an oblique strain after missing multiple games, and could return against Denver after participating in most of practice. Phoenix has relied on Khaman Maluach and Duop Reath in his absence as the team works to address its early rebounding struggles.

7 sources

LeBron James boosts 76ers’ early-season hopes

LeBron James has quickly made an impact with the 76ers, drawing praise for his playmaking and leadership while embracing the team’s gritty identity; a historic comeback has fueled excitement in Philadelphia. Early games have also exposed concerns about rebounding and the team’s organization when James is absent.

10 sources

Jokic Calls Booing Fans Unwelcome After Nuggets Rally

Jokić told booing Nuggets fans they are not welcome anymore after Denver rallied from 23 down to beat the Pelicans 141-135 in OT.

54 sources

Murray Scores 42 as Nuggets Rally Past Pelicans

The Kings opened the 2026-27 season with a 121-96 loss to the Clippers, as rookie Darius Acuff Jr. and Keegan Murray struggled. Zach LaVine led Sacramento with 28 points and looked healthy after an injury-limited season, while Domantas Sabonis added 14 points and 18 rebounds.

21 sources

NBA Opens Season With Record G League Presence

The 2026-27 NBA season opens with a roster featuring record numbers of players with G League experience and representation from 43 countries; the Miami Heat, with Giannis Antetokounmpo, have started 0-3. College basketball also enters a season of major structural changes, including the Pac-12’s return and an expanded 76-team NCAA tournament.

Orlando Magic earn first win, beat Knicks 111-102

The Orlando Magic beat the New York Knicks 111-102 for their first win of the season, rallying after an early 12-point deficit despite playing without injured star Paolo Banchero. Franz Wagner led the way with 23 points, 13 rebounds and nine assists, while Anthony Black made a welcome return from injury.

44 sources

Gilgeous-Alexander’s NBA-record 141-game streak ends vs. Nuggets

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s NBA-record streak of 141 consecutive regular-season games with at least 20 points ended when he scored 17 in Oklahoma City’s 96-84 win over Denver. He had surpassed Wilt Chamberlain’s previous record, and the Thunder improved to 2-0 despite the streak ending.

47 sources

Embiid Ruled Out Against Detroit

Joel Embiid is available for the 76ers’ Saturday game against Milwaukee and is expected to sit Sunday against Detroit as he manages a back-to-back. His availability could mean a larger offensive role Saturday.

36 sources

Miller scores 34 as Hornets hold off late Heat rally

Brandon Miller scored 34 points as Charlotte beat Miami 115-110, rebounding from a franchise-worst defeat the previous night. The Hornets built a 22-point third-quarter lead, then held off Miami’s late comeback to secure the win.

24 sources

Tatum and Brown Trade Public Remarks Amid Speculation

Boston blew a 22-point lead in its season-opening loss to Detroit, as Jayson Tatum struggled to shoot but had 11 assists and newcomer Paul George scored a franchise-record 38 points in his debut. The loss renewed scrutiny of the Jaylen Brown trade: Stephen A. Smith argued Tatum could have blocked it, while reports offered conflicting accounts of Tatum’s involvement and described a strained relationship between the former teammates.

173 sources

Magic Guard Jalen Suggs to Miss at Least Two Weeks with Knee Bruise

Magic guard Jalen Suggs left Sunday’s win over the Knicks after his right knee buckled during a non-contact layup attempt, and he had to be helped to the locker room. The team had no immediate diagnosis and planned further evaluation, leaving the severity of the injury unclear.

28 sources

76ers, Bucks Expected to Meet October 24

The undefeated 76ers host the winless Bucks on Saturday after rallying past Cleveland, while Milwaukee looks to halt its early-season skid. Philadelphia has four players listed on its injury report; Milwaukee has none.

81 sources

Sixers Rally From 29-Point Deficit, Beat Cavaliers

Jaylen Brown has made an immediate two-way impact for Philadelphia, scoring 27 points in a win over Milwaukee while coach Nick Nurse praised his defense and urged him to attack more in transition. He also helped power the Sixers’ historic rally from a 29-point deficit against Cleveland, with his physicality and scoring complementing Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey.

17 sources

Cavaliers Host Nets Seeking Rebound From Season Opener Loss

Cleveland hosts Brooklyn for its home opener after the Cavaliers squandered a big lead in a season-opening loss to Philadelphia, while the Nets arrive with a win over Charlotte. The Cavs are looking to bring the energy of their playoff run back to Rocket Arena, which is welcoming fans with new merchandise and food options.

37 sources

Booker scores 43, Suns beat Warriors 131-122

After a 124-83 season-opening loss to Portland in which Devin Booker scored 23 points but attempted no 3-pointers, the Suns bounced back to beat Golden State 131-122. Booker led the recovery with 43 points as the short-handed Warriors fell to 0-3.

24 sources

Pistons, Heat set for matchup after contrasting openers

Detroit visits Miami after rallying from a 22-point deficit to beat Boston, while the Heat seek a response to a 25-point loss to Minnesota despite Giannis Antetokounmpo scoring 35 in his debut. Miami’s defensive struggles and need to build chemistry will be tested against a Pistons team that opened the season with a statement comeback.

29 sources

Rookie Lendeborg scores 31 as Warriors rout Nuggets for first win

Rookie Yaxel Lendeborg has quickly become a key offensive option for Golden State, following a 26-point showing against Phoenix with 31 points and 12 rebounds in the Warriors’ first win of the season, a 134-114 victory over Denver. Stephen Curry likened Lendeborg’s ability to create offense to Jimmy Butler’s, while coach Steve Kerr has praised his versatility and said improving his defense is a priority.

22 sources

Flagg Sets NBA Record, Mavericks Fall to Rockets

Cooper Flagg scored an NBA-record 32 points for a teenager in a season opener, but the Dallas Mavericks lost 128-110 to Houston after a disastrous second quarter. Flagg said Dallas lacked organization and defensive answers as the Rockets pulled away.

72 sources

Raptors' Kawhi Leonard Ruled Out Against Timberwolves

Kawhi Leonard will miss Toronto’s game against Minnesota with left knee swelling, a late scratch that weakens the undefeated Raptors’ lineup. Allen Graves is expected to start in his place.

18 sources

Raptors, Timberwolves Meet in 2-0 Showdown

Undefeated Toronto and Minnesota meet Sunday in an early-season test for the Raptors, whose strong defense faces the Timberwolves’ dynamic backcourt of Anthony Edwards and LaMelo Ball. Both teams have impressed defensively, prompting one NBA preview to predict a low-scoring game.

26 sources

Nuggets' Spencer Jones Out Against Thunder

The Thunder host Denver for their 2026-27 home opener after beating San Antonio, while the Nuggets open their season without Spencer Jones, who is being held out because of a hamstring injury. Oklahoma City is also without Otega Oweh, Thomas Sorber and Nikola Topic; Denver’s Julian Strawther is out.

67 sources

Grizzlies rout Jazz 123-103, Jerome scores 45

Ty Jerome erupted for a career-high 45 points to lead Memphis past Utah 123-103 in both teams’ season opener. The Grizzlies also dominated the boards, while Utah’s rookie Darryn Peterson scored nine and the Jazz played without injured center Jusuf Nurkić.

71 sources

Kessler scores 26 on 12-for-12, Lakers beat Warriors

Walker Kessler made a historic Lakers debut, scoring 26 points on 12-for-12 shooting with nine rebounds and two blocks as Los Angeles beat Golden State 127-105. Luka Doncic led the new-look Lakers with 28 points, while Kessler’s performance matched rare franchise marks set by Wilt Chamberlain and Shaquille O’Neal.

71 sources

Hawks, Hornets Set for Conference Matchup

The 1-0 Atlanta Hawks and Charlotte Hornets meet Friday in an Eastern Conference matchup. Both teams have multiple players listed as out, including Grant Williams and Coby White for Charlotte and Henri Veesaar and Mouhamed Gueye for Atlanta.

17 sources

LeBron James Ruled Out Against Bucks

LeBron James was ruled out of the 76ers' Saturday game against Milwaukee for lower-back and sciatica management as Philadelphia manages his workload in a back-to-back.

62 sources

Trail Blazers Beat Suns 124-83 in Opener

Phoenix Suns center Oso Ighodaro will miss Saturday’s home opener against Golden State with an oblique strain after leaving Wednesday’s loss to Portland, but the team believes the injury is not serious and hopes he will be day-to-day. His absence puts added pressure on rookie Khaman Maluach and other bigs while Mark Williams remains sidelined.

14 sources

Rockets Edge Spurs 114-110, Improve to 2-0

Amen Thompson blocked Victor Wembanyama's game-tying layup in the final second as Houston held off San Antonio 114-110 in Austin and improved to 2-0.

107 sources

Knicks Sign Dalton Knecht to Two-Way Contract

The Lakers waived 2024 first-round pick Dalton Knecht before the roster deadline after his role and production declined following a promising rookie start. The Knicks, Timberwolves, Kings and Raptors have shown interest, though New York would need to open a two-way roster spot to sign him.

46 sources

Hawks Set Franchise Record With 47-Point Rout

Ramon Scott’s picks back Charlotte against Washington and, earlier, as a home underdog against Atlanta; Atlanta later routed the Hornets by a franchise-record 47 points. He also recommends the under in Hawks-Rockets and Valkyries-Dream matchups, citing defensive strength and controlled pace.

Timberwolves rout Magic 115-93 in Orlando

The Minnesota Timberwolves beat the Orlando Magic 115-93 as Orlando struggled to score, managing just 15 points in the third quarter. Paolo Banchero left with right ankle soreness, while Wendell Carter led the Magic with 20 points.

Durant, Smith lead Rockets past Mavericks 128-110

Durant and Smith scored 30 each, Smith going 11-of-11, as Houston's 38-12 second quarter keyed a 128-110 opener win over Dallas.

54 sources

Raptors Rout Bulls 135-92 in Season Opener

Toronto opens the 2026–27 season at home against Chicago as a heavy favorite, with previews backing the Raptors’ defense and depth while highlighting Kawhi Leonard’s return. The Bulls enter with a revamped, development-focused young core, but injuries and questions about their offense leave them facing a tough test.

39 sources

Trump criticizes LeBron James over anthem

Trump called LeBron James a "total disgrace," said "He's No Good!," and demanded an apology after viral footage showed James practicing a golf swing during the anthem at his 76ers debut.

156 sources

Pistons' Jalen Duren Out At Least Two Weeks

Jalen Duren out at least two weeks with right hamstring strain weeks after signing a 5-year $200 million extension; re-eval targets possible Nov. 8 vs Lakers.

Unbeaten Pistons Beat Heat as Duren, Thompson Exit Injured

The Detroit Pistons overwhelmed the Miami Heat, taking a 103-80 lead into the fourth quarter as Miami fans booed their team. Detroit’s win came with concern over potential injuries to starters Jalen Duren and Ausar Thompson, who left the game early.

22 sources

Daniels’ Seven Steals Fuel Hawks’ Record 47-Point Win

The Atlanta Hawks routed the Charlotte Hornets 128-81, setting a franchise record for largest victory margin and improving to 2-0. Dyson Daniels fueled the defensive performance with seven steals, while Jalen Johnson and Aaron Wiggins led Atlanta with 19 points apiece.

7 sources

Pacers Rally Past Pelicans in Season Opener

The Indiana Pacers open the season Wednesday at New Orleans without starting small forward Aaron Nesmith and backup point guard T.J. McConnell, both sidelined by hamstring strains. Tyrese Haliburton is cleared to return after missing last season with a torn Achilles, giving Indiana a major boost as it looks to rebound from a 19-63 campaign.

45 sources

Doncic banks half-court buzzer-beater in Lakers rout of Warriors

Doncic banked a half-court buzzer-beater in a 127-105 Lakers opener and chirped at rookie Lendeborg, who said he "lost all respect" over flopping and ref complaints.

102 sources

NBA Season Opens With 11 Games

The 2026–27 NBA season opened with an 11-game slate, while the WNBA Finals’ third game ended with Atlanta beating Golden State 97–71 to take a 2–1 series lead. Texas Tech also announced game times and TV coverage for its women’s basketball season, which begins Nov. 5 against Charlotte.

LaMelo Ball Travel Noncall Goes Viral in Debut

LaMelo Ball’s Minnesota Timberwolves debut ended in a 131-106 win over the Miami Heat, led by Anthony Edwards’ 45 points, but a missed traveling call on Ball’s three-pointer went viral. Ball’s brother Lonzo called out the apparent travel, while LaMelo defended the play; commentators and fans also questioned the officials’ no-call.

27 sources

Beasley Expected Guilty Plea in NBA Betting Case

Prosecutors cite Beasley shoving a teammate for a rebound with 1.1 seconds left to hit a prop; court records show he intends to change his plea.

10 sources

Giannis Antetokounmpo Set for Heat Debut

Giannis Antetokounmpo is set to make his regular-season debut for the Miami Heat against the Minnesota Timberwolves after a summer trade ended his 13-season run in Milwaukee. He says he feels comfortable with his new team, and his strong preseason has raised expectations as Miami begins its season.

149 sources

Timberwolves open season in Miami after mixed preseason

Minnesota finished its preseason 3-3 and now turns to the regular season, with Anthony Edwards’ scoring encouraging but his mobility and the team’s bench depth among the concerns to watch. Despite optimism about the new roster, former coach Stan Van Gundy sees the Wolves as a likely sixth-place team, citing questions about defensive fit, injuries and lost frontcourt depth.

61 sources

Lillard Leads Blazers’ 43-12 First-Quarter Surge

Damian Lillard is back with Portland after three years away, returning at 36 as he rehabs a torn Achilles and looks to pursue the championship that eluded him in his first Blazers stint. He has defended his Milwaukee years as productive despite injuries derailing playoff runs, while his return and added offensive firepower have raised expectations for Portland.

34 sources

Blazers plan 2026-27 season around Morant, Lillard

Portland is building around a starting group of Ja Morant, Damian Lillard, Toumani Camara, Deni Avdija and Donovan Clingan, pairing Morant’s playmaking and drives with Lillard’s shooting and the team’s defensive strengths. After returning to the playoffs, the Blazers hope Morant’s arrival and Lillard’s return from injury can improve an inconsistent offense, though fitting the guards together and keeping Morant healthy remain key questions.

39 sources

Haliburton returns, Pacers beat Pelicans 123-120

Tyrese Haliburton returned from a ruptured Achilles tendon with 23 points, helping the Indiana Pacers rally past the New Orleans Pelicans 123-120 in their season opener. Pascal Siakam led Indiana with 30 points, including 18 in the fourth quarter.

30 sources

Charlotte Beats Brooklyn in Season Opener

The Hornets will open the 2026-27 season against Brooklyn without Coby White, Kon Knueppel and Grant Williams, who are recovering from calf and hamstring strains. All three have resumed individual on-court work, but the team has set no return timeline, leaving other players to take on larger roles.

43 sources

Thunder Beat Spurs 116-104 in Season Opener

A second-quarter scuffle marred the Spurs-Thunder season opener after San Antonio’s De’Aaron Fox threw Oklahoma City’s Chet Holmgren to the floor. Victor Wembanyama and several Thunder players joined the confrontation; Fox received a flagrant 1 and four players were assessed technical fouls.

64 sources

76ers Spoil Knicks’ Ceremony With Season-Opening Win

Philadelphia spoiled the Knicks’ championship ring and banner night with a 106-100 win at MSG as Tyrese Maxey scored 28 and LeBron James debuted with 14 points, 9 rebounds and 7 assists.

206 sources

Pistons, Celtics set for daytime NBA season opener

The 2026-27 NBA season opens Tuesday with the Detroit Pistons hosting the Boston Celtics in an afternoon matchup between last season’s top two Eastern Conference teams. Boston is nearly at full strength, while the league and NBC are treating the game as part of an expanded, nationally televised opening-day event.

100 sources

NBA Plans Sweeping Anti-Tanking Draft Changes

Entering a record 24th NBA season with most major career records already in hand, LeBron James is chasing a championship with Philadelphia that would make him the first player to win titles with four franchises. His arrival has raised expectations among Sixers fans hungry for a title since 1983, while former player Richard Jefferson says James’ move also gives Luka Doncic room to lead the Lakers and contend for MVP.

73 sources

Knicks Begin Title Defense With Championship Ceremony

Knicks raise their 2026 title banner and get rings Tuesday at MSG before facing LeBron and the 76ers, their first championship since 1973.

117 sources

Mavericks waive veteran Powell after 12 seasons to keep young center

The Dallas Mavericks waived longtime center Dwight Powell, ending his 12-season run with the franchise as they trimmed their roster to 15 standard contracts. Dallas kept young center Moussa Cissé instead, signaling a preference for youth and future development over Powell’s experience and leadership.

22 sources

Bucks Set to Open Post-Giannis Era Against Wizards

The Bucks open their season in Washington after trading Giannis Antetokounmpo and bringing in coach Taylor Jenkins, beginning a new chapter without the superstar who led the franchise for 13 years. The Wizards, meanwhile, are trying to climb out of a prolonged rebuild after adding top pick AJ Dybantsa and pairing Trae Young with Anthony Davis.

55 sources

Lakers Part Ways With Knecht, Set 15-Man Roster

The Lakers explored trading Dalton Knecht—potentially for front-court help—to reduce their roster to 15, but ultimately waived the former first-round pick before the 2026-27 season. The move ends Knecht’s tenure in Los Angeles after he struggled to secure a consistent role.

97 sources

Knicks-76ers Opener Sets Record Ticket Prices

Tickets for the Knicks’ season opener against the 76ers at Madison Square Garden have topped $1,000 on resale sites, with reported prices varying widely by marketplace and timing; some outlets called it the most expensive NBA regular-season game on record. Demand reflects the Knicks’ championship banner and ring ceremony and LeBron James’s debut in Philadelphia’s lineup.

20 sources

Edwards scores 45, Timberwolves rout Heat 131-106

Anthony Edwards scored 45 points and set a Timberwolves Opening Night scoring record as Minnesota beat Miami 131-106, spoiling Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Heat debut despite his 35 points. LaMelo Ball had 21 points in his Minnesota debut, and Edwards joined Wilt Chamberlain and Michael Jordan as the only players with multiple 40-point season openers.

LaMelo Ball Lists Charlotte Condo for $2.6M

LaMelo Ball has listed one of his Uptown Charlotte condos for $2.6 million, months after a trade sent him from the Hornets to the Minnesota Timberwolves. The four-bedroom home is in the Trust building; reports say he owns another condo there that is not for sale.

Knicks set to defend NBA title against 76ers

The Knicks begin their title defense with their championship-winning core intact, but repeating would be a major challenge in an NBA that has crowned eight different champions in eight seasons. LeBron James and a revamped Philadelphia 76ers are among the contenders, while analyst Eddie Johnson doubts New York can even emerge from the Eastern Conference.

160 sources

NBA Season Opens With Three Marquee Matchups

NBA betting previews favor the under in Timberwolves-Heat and Toronto to beat Chicago, while backing Philadelphia to cover against New York. A Utah Jazz season outlook also argues the team should surpass its 35.5-win line.

117 sources

Knicks Host Star-Studded 76ers in Season Opener

Golden State’s Jimmy Butler shrugged off Philadelphia’s additions of LeBron James and Jaylen Brown but said the Warriors would “give them hell” when they meet; he also reported progress in his ACL rehabilitation without setting a return date. Former champion Shawn Marion separately questioned whether Philadelphia’s many star players can share the ball and fit together effectively.

61 sources

Franz Wagner Expects to Play Against Hawks

The Atlanta Hawks closed the preseason with four straight wins to finish 4-1, with Kingston Flemings, Jalen Johnson and Nickeil Alexander-Walker among the standouts. The team appears deeper and poised for the opener against Orlando, but questions remain about frontcourt depth and Dyson Daniels’ three-point shooting; Lu Dort could help defensively without necessarily joining the starting lineup.

76ers Beat Champion Knicks 106-100 in Opener

76ers beat champion Knicks 106-100 on Oct. 20, 2026, as Tyrese Maxey scores 28 to spoil New York's banner-and-rings opener.

26 sources

Mavericks Pick Up Cooper Flagg’s 2027-28 Option

The Mavericks picked up Cooper Flagg’s team option for the 2027-28 season after an impressive rookie year. After sitting out Wednesday’s preseason game for rest, he was available for Friday’s finale against Atlanta.

19 sources

Pelicans Exercise Options on Three First-Rounders

The New Orleans Pelicans exercised contract options for center Yves Missi and 2025 first-round picks Jeremiah Fears and Derik Queen, keeping the young players under team control as they develop. Fears and Queen earned All-Rookie second-team honors, while Missi is expected to start at center.

7 sources

76ers Spoil Knicks Banner Night in 106-100 Win

76ers spoiled Knicks banner night 106-100 as LeBron debuted with 14 points and told a fan "I'm from Ohio, baby" after "We don't want you" chants.

20 sources

NBA plans 2027 European league as biggest investment ever

Mark Tatum set October 2027 for an NBA European league with multibillion club payouts, ready to proceed after EuroLeague rejected a merger, as stars like Wembanyama and Jokic already lead the NBA.