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Combined summaries and individual breaking-news reports, all in one recency-first feed.

Monday, February 16

76ers Sign Veteran Guard Cameron Payne for Playoff Push

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The Philadelphia 76ers have signed veteran point guard Cameron Payne for the remainder of the season, adding depth to their roster for the playoff push. Payne, who previously played 10 NBA seasons and recently averaged 12.4 points and 3.9 assists in 10 games with Partizan Belgrade, was released by the Serbian team. The 76ers will contribute $875,000 to his $1.75 million buyout. Payne provides trusted depth behind All-Star Tyrese Maxey, especially after trading Jared McCain.

76ers Reportedly Upgrade Jabari Parker to Standard Contract

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Reports indicate the Philadelphia 76ers are upgrading Jabari Parker to a standard contract for their playoff push, as the team focuses on adding depth and solidifying its roster. This move is part of the 76ers' strategy to lock up their roster for the stretch run. The team is also signing veteran point guard Cameron Payne. Further details on Parker's contract were not immediately available.

Pat Spencer Signed to Standard Roster Contract by Warriors

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Pat Spencer's two-way contract slot with the Golden State Warriors has been vacated, as he was signed to a standard roster contract. This move created space for Nate Williams to join the team on a two-way deal. Spencer's upgrade to a standard contract indicates the Warriors' commitment to him beyond a two-way designation, solidifying his position on the main roster.

Nate Williams Signs Two-Way Contract with Golden State Warriors

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Nate Williams, a 6-foot-5 wing from the G League’s Long Island Nets, has signed a two-way contract with the Golden State Warriors. Williams, 27, averaged 17.9 points, 6.1 rebounds, 2.7 assists, and 1.5 steals on 48.2% shooting (34.5% from three) in 22 G League games this season. He fills the two-way slot vacated by Pat Spencer and joins Malevy Leons and LJ Cryer. Williams has prior NBA experience with the Trail Blazers and Rockets, but is unlikely to see significant rotation minutes this season.

Luka Dončić Praises Lakers Organization Over Former Mavericks

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Los Angeles Lakers superstar Luka Dončić, returning from a hamstring injury, revealed significant differences between his current team and his former team, the Dallas Mavericks. Dončić stated, 'I think the organization here is better. The Lakers are a truly legendary club and the organization is legendary too.' He noted that while Dallas gave him roots, Los Angeles offers the chance to become a legend, feeling the gravitational pull of a franchise built on legacy and championship expectations.

Tyrese Martin Expected to Sign Two-Way Deal with Philadelphia 76ers

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Tyrese Martin, a 26-year-old combo guard, is expected to sign a two-way deal with the Philadelphia 76ers, filling the spot opened by Jabari Walker's contract conversion. Martin, who played college ball at Rhode Island and UConn, was a 2022 second-round pick by the Warriors, later traded to the Hawks. He spent two years in the G League and had a two-way then standard contract with the Nets before being waived on Feb. 5. This move adds much-needed depth for the Sixers.

76ers Sign Jabari Walker to Two-Year Standard Contract

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Jabari Walker has signed a new two-year standard contract with the Philadelphia 76ers, securing his position after maxing out his two-way contract games. The forward played 45 games this season, providing solid rotation minutes and hustle off the bench, with averages of 3.7 points and 3.1 rebounds in 12 minutes per night. His promotion also opens a two-way spot for the team, which is expected to be filled by Tyrese Martin. This move adds much-needed depth for the Sixers' playoff push.

Wizards Sign G League All-Star Alondes Williams to 10-Day Contract

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The Washington Wizards have signed G League All-Star Alondes Williams to a 10-day contract. The 26-year-old, 6-foot-4 guard averaged 20.2 points per game on 43.5% 3PT across 13 appearances with the Capital City Go-Go this season, recently dropping 40 points on 62% FG. Williams, a Wake Forest product, is an efficient 3-point shooter with a score-first mindset. He joins Kadary Richmond as one of two players on 10-day deals for the Wizards, who return from the All-Star break Thursday.

Lillard Recruits Curry, Thompson, Booker for Epic 2027 3-Point Contest

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After winning his third 3-Point Contest in 2026, Damian Lillard is actively recruiting a 'legendary' field for the 2027 competition in Phoenix. Lillard messaged Stephen Curry, who confirmed his participation and expressed interest in getting Klay Thompson involved. Devin Booker has also committed, making for a star-studded lineup. Lillard's initiative aims to gather top shooting talent, potentially including James Harden, for what could be the greatest 3-Point Contest of all time.

Curry Commits to 2027 3-Point Contest, Recruiting Klay Thompson

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Golden State Warriors star Stephen Curry has confirmed his participation in the 2027 NBA 3-Point Contest in Phoenix, actively recruiting Klay Thompson to join a 'legendary' lineup that already includes Damian Lillard and Devin Booker. Curry, who was out with a knee injury this year, also made headlines for hitting an absurd deep shot from the NBA on NBC pregame set. Additionally, Curry hilariously reacted to comparisons between the villain in his new animated film 'GOAT' and Dillon Brooks, embracing the theory.

Booker Commits to 2027 3-Point Contest, Joins Legendary Lineup

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Phoenix Suns star Devin Booker has committed to participating in the 2027 NBA 3-Point Contest, which will be held on his home court in Phoenix. Damian Lillard and Stephen Curry are actively recruiting a 'legendary' field, with Booker, Curry, and Klay Thompson already in. Booker expressed that losing this year 'hurt a little bit' and that next year might be his last attempt. Separately, Booker made headlines for quick thinking during the All-Star Game, preventing a collision between Nikola Jokic and Barack Obama, earning a hug from the former president.

Kawhi Leonard's Rollercoaster Season: All-Star Snub to Dominant Play

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Kawhi Leonard's season has been a 'roller coaster,' transitioning from an All-Star snub to a dominant performance after being added as an injury replacement. He scored 31 points in 12 minutes at the All-Star Game, receiving MVP votes. Despite the Clippers trading James Harden and Ivica Zubac, Leonard is averaging a career-high 27.9 points and leading the league in steals (2.1), along with 6.4 rebounds and 3.7 assists. He's focusing on his game amidst team retooling and past salary cap circumvention allegations, with his future beyond this season uncertain.

Klay Thompson Eyed for 2027 3-Point Contest by Lillard, Curry

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Golden State Warriors' Klay Thompson is being considered for the 2027 NBA 3-Point Contest. Portland Trail Blazers guard Damian Lillard reportedly messaged Stephen Curry, proposing an invitation for Thompson, Devin Booker, and four other 'real shooters' to participate in the event. The discussion centers on assembling a high-caliber field for the future contest, highlighting Thompson's reputation as a premier shooter.

Anthony Edwards Earns All-Star MVP, Praises Wembanyama's Tone-Setting

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Minnesota Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards earned All-Star MVP honors, leading Team Stars to the tournament win with 32 points, 9 rebounds, and 3 assists in 27 minutes. Edwards played aggressively, showcasing his ability to get to the basket and hit jumpers. He credited Victor Wembanyama for setting a competitive tone in the All-Star Game, stating, 'Wemby set the tone. He came out playing hard, and we had to follow that.' Edwards also dismissed 'Face of the League' talk, deferring to Wembanyama.

Wembanyama Praised for Saving All-Star Game, Jokic Demands 'Alien' Drawing

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San Antonio Spurs superstar Victor Wembanyama is being hailed as the savior of the All-Star Game for his fierce competitiveness, which inspired other players to elevate their effort. Despite his Team World going 0-2, Anthony Edwards credited Wemby for setting the tone. Post-game, Nikola Jokic made a unique demand, asking Wembanyama to draw an 'alien' caricature on his jersey in addition to his signature, a nod to his 'alien' nickname for his unique 7-foot-4 frame and guard-like skills. Wembanyama obliged, pleasing Jokic.

Haywood Highsmith Signs Multiyear Deal with Phoenix Suns

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Haywood Highsmith has signed a minimum two-year deal with the Phoenix Suns, with the second year non-guaranteed, joining as a mid-season addition. The 29-year-old wing was waived by the Brooklyn Nets on February 5th after suffering a torn meniscus in his right knee during training camp, which led to his trade from the Heat. Highsmith, a 3&D wing, averaged 6.5 points, 3.4 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 0.9 steals, and 0.5 blocks on 46/38/72 shooting in 74 games for the Heat last season. He is expected to provide solid wing defense and three-point shooting for the Suns' playoff push.

Jaylen Brown's All-Star Event Shut Down, Disputes Police Account

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Boston Celtics star Jaylen Brown's brand event during NBA All-Star Weekend in Beverly Hills was shut down by local police. Brown, who signed a $285 million contract in 2023, expressed being 'offended' by the Beverly Hills Police Department's statement, calling their account 'false.' Police claimed the event permit was denied due to previous violations, but organizers proceeded. Brown stated he felt 'targeted' and that the owner didn't say a permit was needed for what he described as a panel on culture, not a party, costing him '300k down the drain'.

LeBron James Free Agency Rumors Intensify, Cavaliers Return Possible

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LeBron James is set to become a free agent this offseason, fueling 'rampant speculation' about a potential return to the Cleveland Cavaliers for a 'retirement tour.' While James refused to comment on his future at All-Star Weekend, the Cavs would 'gladly welcome him back.' Financially, a return hinges on James' willingness to take a pay cut, potentially a veteran-minimum contract ($3.9M) if the Cavs remain above the second apron. Separately, Stephen A. Smith controversially blamed James for the decline of the NBA Dunk Contest, citing his past refusal to participate.

Steph Curry Embraces Dillon Brooks Villain Theory in New Film

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Phoenix Suns forward Dillon Brooks is at the center of a humorous comparison, as Stephen Curry reacted to theories linking Brooks to the villain character, Mane Attraction, in Curry's new animated film 'GOAT.' Curry, who voices Lenny Williamson, laughed off the comparison, stating, 'People are taking from the movie what they’re supposed to take. I love it.' This playful jab adds to Brooks' history of heated moments against the Warriors, including past flagrant fouls and skirmishes with Curry.

Harrison Barnes Delivers Late-Clock Jumper in Spurs Win

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Harrison Barnes contributed to the San Antonio Spurs' 126-113 road win against the Golden State Warriors, making a crucial late-clock pull-up jumper. Barnes, described as a 'checkdown shooter,' came through in the third quarter to help the Spurs overcome sizable deficits. His performance was highlighted as part of the team's ability to assert themselves and secure a victory in a place where they don't always win, contributing to a successful season.