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NBA News

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

Friday, October 17, 2025

Donovan Mitchell and Cavaliers Face 'Finals or Bust' Season Amidst High Eastern Conference Expectations

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Cleveland Cavaliers star Donovan Mitchell enters the 2025-26 NBA season under immense pressure, as the team is operating with a "Finals or bust" mentality. After finishing 64-18 and securing the East's top seed last season, the Cavaliers suffered their second consecutive second-round playoff exit. Mitchell, described as a "playoff dynamo," is expected to continue his successful approach of ceding some offensive control, which allowed Darius Garland to excel last season. The team's championship aspirations heavily rely on Mitchell's performance and the continued development of Evan Mobley, who earned All-NBA second team honors and Defensive Player of the Year last season. Failure to advance further in the playoffs could trigger a significant roster reshuffle, potentially involving Jarrett Allen or Garland, emphasizing the need for the core to win together. The Cavaliers are projected to exceed 56.5 regular season wins.

Trae Young, Hawks Reportedly Fail to Reach Extension Agreement Before Season Start

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Atlanta Hawks star Trae Young and the team will reportedly not finalize a contract extension before the start of the NBA season. The 27-year-old, a four-time All-Star, is entering the final guaranteed year of his current deal, set to earn $46 million this season. Young holds a $49 million player option for the 2026-27 season, and declining it would make him an unrestricted free agent next summer; he is currently eligible for a substantial four-year, $229 million extension. Despite the ongoing contract uncertainty, Young expressed his focus on the upcoming season at media day, stating he wasn't "stressing." The Hawks, aiming to improve their on-court fortunes after two consecutive play-in round exits and keep Young content, made offseason acquisitions including Kristaps Porziņģis, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, and Luke Kennard.

Al Horford Joins Warriors, Respected by Teammate Draymond Green

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Al Horford, who officially signed with the Golden State Warriors on October 1st, is set to join his new team for the 2025-26 NBA season. Teammate Draymond Green has publicly stated he will not troll Horford about the Warriors' 2022 NBA Finals win against Horford's former Boston Celtics. Green expressed excitement to play with Horford, respecting him as a champion and looking forward to learning from him. In the 2022 Finals, Horford averaged 12.5 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 2.8 assists, a series that concluded with Golden State hoisting the trophy on Horford's former home court, the TD Garden.

Thursday, October 16, 2025

Draymond Green Details Deep Personal Connection with Teammate Jimmy Butler

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Golden State Warriors star Draymond Green recently opened up about his profound connection with teammate Jimmy Butler, explaining their strong chemistry both on and off the court. Green highlighted their numerous mutual interests, such as a shared passion for dominoes, wine, and travel, as foundational to their bond. He described them as "caregivers of people," fostering a deep sense of trust and understanding. Green stressed that the personal connection is paramount, stating, "The personal stuff is so much more important than the competitive," which naturally translates to their on-court synergy. He lauded Butler's intelligence, remarking, "he’s smart as hell," and noted that they "speak each other’s language," making it effortless to play together.

Jimmy Butler's Strong Bond with Draymond Green Extends Beyond the Court

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Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green recently elaborated on his strong bond with teammate Jimmy Butler, highlighting a deep personal connection that transcends basketball. Green emphasized their mutual interests, including a shared love for dominoes, wine, and travel, as key factors in their easy chemistry. He described them both as "caregivers of people," which fosters a unique sense of understanding and trust. Green noted that this personal connection is far more important than their competitive fire, making it easier to play together on the court. He praised Butler's intelligence, stating, "he’s smart as hell," and explained that they "speak each other’s language," leading to instinctive play.

Former NBA MVP Russell Westbrook Signs with Sacramento Kings for 18th Season

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Former NBA Most Valuable Player Russell Westbrook has officially signed with the Sacramento Kings, marking his entry into his 18th professional season. The 36-year-old point guard joins the Kings after playing the 2024-25 season with the Denver Nuggets, where he averaged 13.3 points, 6.1 assists, and 4.9 rebounds across 75 games. Westbrook became a free agent in June following the Nuggets' elimination in the Western Conference semi-finals. A nine-time All-Star and the 2016-17 NBA MVP, he holds the league record for most triple-doubles with 203 and led the NBA in scoring in 2015 and 2017. This move sees Westbrook join his seventh team since being drafted in 2008, having previously played for the Seattle Supersonics, Houston Rockets, Washington Wizards, Los Angeles Lakers, and Los Angeles Clippers. Kings general manager Scott Perry expressed excitement, stating, "Russell embodies the identity we're striving for in Sacramento... We expect him to strengthen our point guard position and provide leadership both on and off the court."

Jerami Grant Explodes for 32 Points in Trail Blazers' Preseason Finale

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Jerami Grant delivered a huge performance in Thursday's 132-129 preseason loss to the Jazz, showcasing his scoring and defensive capabilities. Across 31 minutes of action, Grant poured in an impressive 32 points, shooting 7-of-15 from the field, including 5-of-11 from three-point range, and an excellent 13-of-14 from the free-throw line. Beyond his offensive outburst, the Portland Trail Blazers forward also contributed significantly with six rebounds, two steals, and three blocks, highlighting his all-around impact in the preseason finale.

DeMar DeRozan Probable for Kings' Preseason Finale Against Lakers

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DeMar DeRozan is listed as probable for the Sacramento Kings' preseason finale on Friday, where they are set to face the Lakers. The veteran forward has been dealing with a groin issue, but his probable status indicates he is expected to play. This update was reported by Sean Cunningham of Fox 40 Sacramento, with further analysis available on RotoWire.com. His participation in the final preseason game will be a key indicator of his readiness for the upcoming regular season.

Cade Cunningham Registers Preseason Double-Double in Pistons' Win

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Cade Cunningham delivered an impressive performance during Thursday's 119-98 preseason win against the Wizards, registering a double-double. In just 24 minutes on the court, Cunningham totaled 16 points on efficient shooting (6-10 FG, 3-4 3Pt, 1-1 FT). He also showcased his playmaking abilities with 12 assists, complemented by one rebound, two steals, and one block. This strong outing highlights his all-around impact for the Detroit Pistons as the preseason progresses.

Franz Wagner Cruises to 24-Point Night for Magic in Preseason Victory

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Franz Wagner had a standout night for the Orlando Magic during Thursday's 132-125 preseason victory over the Pelicans. In only 25 minutes of play, Wagner poured in 24 points, demonstrating efficient scoring with 8-14 from the field, including 3-6 from beyond the arc and 5-6 from the free-throw line. He also contributed across the stat sheet with two rebounds, three assists, and two steals, showcasing his versatile impact on the game.

Domantas Sabonis Sidelined with Mild Hamstring Strain, Misses Preseason Finale

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Sacramento Kings star Domantas Sabonis has been diagnosed with a mild right hamstring strain and will consequently sit out of Friday's preseason finale against the Lakers. The update, reported by NBA reporter Chris Haynes, confirms Sabonis's absence from the upcoming game. This development will keep the Kings' key player off the court for their final preseason matchup as he recovers from the injury, impacting their preparations for the regular season.

Anthony Edwards Cleared to Play in Thursday's Preseason Game Against Bulls

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Anthony Edwards, who was previously listed for rest, is confirmed to play in Thursday's preseason game against the Bulls. This update comes from Alan Horton of the Timberwolves Radio Network, indicating the star player will be active for the exhibition contest. His participation suggests he is ready for action as the preseason concludes, providing an opportunity for final tune-ups before the regular season begins.

Naz Reid Ruled Out for Thursday's Preseason Game Due to Rest

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Naz Reid will not participate in Thursday's exhibition game against the Bulls, as he has been ruled out for rest purposes. Alan Horton of the Timberwolves Radio Network reported this update. His absence allows him to rest ahead of the regular season, while other players will take the court for the final preseason contest. This decision is likely a precautionary measure to ensure he is fresh for the upcoming season.

Julius Randle Cleared to Return for Thursday's Preseason Matchup

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Julius Randle, after being listed for rest, has been cleared and is set to play in Thursday's preseason game against the Bulls. The news was reported by Alan Horton of the Timberwolves Radio Network. His return to action for this exhibition game indicates he is ready to ramp up his preparations for the upcoming regular season, getting valuable minutes on the court with his teammates.

Mike Conley Confirmed to Play in Thursday's Preseason Game vs. Bulls

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Mike Conley, who was previously resting, is slated to play in Thursday's preseason game against the Bulls. This confirmation comes from Alan Horton of the Timberwolves Radio Network. His presence in the exhibition game suggests he is getting his final tune-up before the start of the regular season, allowing him to build chemistry and rhythm with his team.

Sharpshooter AJ Green Secures Four-Year, $45 Million Extension with Milwaukee Bucks

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Milwaukee Bucks sharpshooter AJ Green has reportedly agreed to a four-year, $45 million contract extension with no options on either side, a deal broken by ESPN’s Shams Charania. Undrafted out of Northern Iowa in 2022, Green initially earned a two-way contract, then a standard minimum deal after playing 35 games and shooting 41.9% from three-point range in his first season. Last season, the 3&D wing averaged 7.4 points per game, shooting an impressive 42.9% from beyond the arc, and elevated his playoff performance to 11 points per game in 27 minutes. He has started every Bucks preseason game so far, averaging 11.3 points, and is expected to take on an increased role this season, providing crucial floor spacing for the team.

Rudy Gobert Set to Play in Thursday's Preseason Game Against Bulls

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Rudy Gobert, after a period of rest, is scheduled to play in Thursday's preseason game against the Bulls. Alan Horton of the Timberwolves Radio Network provided this update. His participation in the exhibition contest indicates he is ready to join his teammates on the court as the preseason concludes, aiming to fine-tune his game before the regular season tips off.

Alex Sarr Returns to Starting Lineup for Preseason Finale

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Alex Sarr, who had been resting, is confirmed to be in the starting lineup for Thursday's preseason finale against the Pistons in Detroit. This marks his return to action and an opportunity to showcase his skills in a starting role before the regular season begins. His inclusion in the first five suggests the team is evaluating his fit with the primary unit.

CJ McCollum Named to Starting Lineup for Thursday's Exhibition

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CJ McCollum has been announced as a starter for Thursday's exhibition game against the Pistons. This decision places him in a key role for the preseason contest, allowing him to get significant minutes and prepare for the regular season as part of the initial lineup. His presence in the starting five will be crucial for the team's offensive flow.

Tre Jones Cleared to Play in Thursday's Exhibition Game

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Tre Jones, who had been dealing with a foot issue, has been cleared to play in Thursday's exhibition game against the Timberwolves. Joel Lorenzi of The Athletic reported this positive update, indicating Jones is healthy enough to participate in the preseason contest. His return is a boost for the team as they finalize their preparations, allowing him to regain game rhythm.