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NBA News

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

Wednesday, October 8, 2025

Draymond Green Confident Warriors Can Win Championship This Season

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Draymond Green expressed strong confidence in the Golden State Warriors' championship prospects for the upcoming season. Green firmly believes that the Warriors are better positioned to secure a title this year, asserting that there isn't a single team in the league that his Warriors squad cannot defeat. His optimistic outlook highlights the team's perceived strength and readiness for contention, signaling a high level of belief within the locker room.

Quinten Post's 20 Points and Three-Point Prowess Fuel Warriors' Preseason Comeback

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Quinten Post was instrumental in the Golden State Warriors' spirited 129-123 preseason comeback win against the Portland Trail Blazers. Coming off the bench, Post delivered a strong performance with 20 points, showcasing his three-point prowess by hitting back-to-back triples that helped fuel the Warriors' rally. He entered the game in the first quarter, replacing Al Horford, and contributed significantly to the team's dominant 51-26 fourth-quarter surge, turning the tide of the game.

Lauri Markkanen's Future with Utah Jazz Uncertain Despite Desire to Stay

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Lauri Markkanen, a 28-year-old All-Star, has expressed his desire to remain with the Utah Jazz, but he is considered a prime trade candidate as he plays for a rebuilding team that doesn't necessarily need him. Markkanen could significantly elevate an aspiring contender, with teams like Detroit potentially interested. While Utah is reportedly open to offers, his substantial contract—$46.4 million this season, the first year of a four-year, $195.9 million extension—presents a significant challenge for an in-season trade, similar to the complexities surrounding Giannis Antetokounmpo. Despite the contractual hurdles, the Jazz are expected to be more proactive than Milwaukee in trying to facilitate a deal.

Jonathan Kuminga Expected to Be Traded by Warriors After January 15th Deadline

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Jonathan Kuminga is widely anticipated to be traded by the Golden State Warriors after January 15th, the date he becomes eligible, as both the player and the team are reportedly ready to part ways. The Warriors structured his two-year, $45.6 million contract, with a team option in the second year, to be highly tradable. Kuminga, who averaged 15.3 points per game last season but shot 30.5% from three-point range, has faced friction with coach Steve Kerr due to his style of play not naturally fitting Kerr's system. Additionally, his presence at the four position creates an uncomfortable fit alongside players like Jimmy Butler and Draymond Green. The Warriors are expected to move him by the trade deadline.

Ja Morant Suffers Week-to-Week Ankle Sprain, Impacts Grizzlies Lineup

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Ja Morant has suffered a sprained ankle injury, which is expected to keep him sidelined on a 'week-to-week' basis. This setback comes just days before opening night and will significantly impact the Memphis Grizzlies' starting lineup, forcing them to adjust without their star guard.

Jalen Suggs Still Not Cleared for Contact as Knee Recovery Progresses

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Orlando Magic guard Jalen Suggs is continuing his recovery from a knee injury but has not yet been cleared for contact work. According to Jason Beede of the Orlando Sentinel, Suggs remains in a non-contact phase of his rehabilitation. This update indicates that while he is progressing, he is still some time away from full participation in team drills or practices. Further analysis on his status is available via RotoWire.com.

Joel Embiid Participates in Wednesday's Practice for Philadelphia 76ers

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Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid, who has been managing a knee issue, successfully participated in Wednesday's practice session. Keith Pompey of The Philadelphia Inquirer reported Embiid's involvement, indicating a positive step in his health and readiness. His presence in practice is a crucial sign for the team as they continue their preparations, suggesting progress in his recovery.

James Harden Projected for Lighter Load, Potential Dip in Fantasy Production

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Los Angeles Clippers guard James Harden is a fantasy fade pick despite expectations he will continue to lead the team and potentially have an efficient shooting season. Rotoworld analysts anticipate a lighter workload for Harden due to Kawhi Leonard's health, the additions of scoring boosts John Collins and Bradley Beal, and the presence of Chris Paul to manage ball-handling duties. This is expected to reduce Harden's scoring and overall usage, potentially placing him closer to a top-10 point guard finish rather than a top-5. However, this projection could shift if the veteran Clippers team faces health issues, forcing Harden to shoulder a heavier burden out of necessity.

Jalen Brunson's Fantasy Value Expected to Dip Under New Knicks Coaching Staff

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New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson, coming off a productive 2024-25 season where he averaged 26 points, 7.3 assists, and 2.3 triples, is projected to see a decrease in fantasy value. While he showcased elite scoring and playmaking, his high output was tied to heavy minutes and usage under former coach Tom Thibodeau. With Mike Brown now at the helm, the Knicks are expected to consciously limit minutes across the roster. This, combined with a new game plan and the additions of role players like Guerschon Yabusele, Jordan Clarkson, Landry Shamet, and Malcolm Brogdon, suggests Brunson will not replicate his 50th-place per-game fantasy finish. His playing time and statistical output are anticipated to decline.

Josh Hart Misses Wednesday Practice Due to Back and Illness

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New York Knicks forward Josh Hart did not participate in Wednesday's practice, according to James L. Edwards III of The Athletic. Hart is currently dealing with both a back issue and an illness, which kept him sidelined from team activities. This marks another missed practice for the veteran player as the Knicks continue their preparations.

Paul George Ramping Up Rehab, Set for Integration into 76ers Team Activities

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Philadelphia 76ers star Paul George, who has been recovering from a knee injury, is reportedly ramping up his rehabilitation efforts. Keith Pompey of The Philadelphia Inquirer reports that George is expected to be integrated into team activities in the coming days. This development signals a positive step forward in his recovery process as he moves closer to a full return to the court for the 76ers.

Chris Boucher and Joe Mazzulla Recall Humorous 2023 On-Court Altercation

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Chris Boucher, who signed a one-year, $3.3 million contract with the Boston Celtics in early August after seven seasons with the Toronto Raptors, recently reminisced about a 2023 on-court altercation with now-Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla. During an April 5, 2023 game, Boucher bumped into Mazzulla, leading to a heated moment where Mazzulla had to be restrained. Now teammates, both recall the incident with humor; Mazzulla expressed appreciation for Boucher's competitive fire, stating "The world is soft. The league is soft," and even joked upon Boucher's signing that he was brought in for "payback." Boucher, who said he'd "do that again and again," confirmed Mazzulla's initial comment and noted their shared "us against everybody" mentality. They are set to play their first game together in the Celtics' preseason opener against the Grizzlies.

Free Agent Russell Westbrook's Future Uncertain as Kevin Durant Hopes for Reunion

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As the 2025-26 NBA season approaches, free agent Russell Westbrook's status remains unresolved, with less than two weeks until the start of the season. His former teammate, Kevin Durant, now with the Houston Rockets, has publicly expressed his interest in a potential reunion, remarking that playing together again "would be dope." This sentiment highlights the ongoing speculation surrounding Westbrook's next move and the possibility of him joining a team where he could reconnect with past teammates.

LeBron James Joins Stephen Curry on Allen Iverson's All-Time Top Five List

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Los Angeles Lakers icon LeBron James has been recognized by NBA legend Allen Iverson, who named James among his top five NBA players of all time. James is one of only two active players, alongside Stephen Curry, to be featured on Iverson's highly selective list, further solidifying his status as one of the greatest to ever play the game. This prestigious acknowledgment highlights James's enduring impact and legendary career.

Stephen Curry Honored by Allen Iverson, Named to All-Time Top Five List

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Golden State Warriors superstar Stephen Curry has received high praise from NBA legend Allen Iverson, who included Curry in his personal top five NBA players of all time. Curry stands out as one of only two active players, alongside LeBron James, to earn a spot on Iverson's esteemed list, underscoring his significant impact and legacy in the league. This recognition further solidifies Curry's place among basketball's elite.

Assessing Luka Dončić's Impact on the Evolving Los Angeles Lakers Roster

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The 2025-26 Los Angeles Lakers are currently undergoing a period of transition, and a key point of discussion revolves around the impact of Luka Dončić on the team's improvement. The conversation previews the upcoming season, specifically analyzing how much better the Lakers have become with Dončić as a central figure, indicating his pivotal role in the team's current state and future prospects. This focus underscores his importance to the team's evolving dynamics.

Dallas Mavericks' Cooper Flagg Emerges as Heavy Favorite for Rookie of the Year

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Cooper Flagg, the Dallas Mavericks' highly anticipated No. 1 overall pick, has quickly emerged as the heavy favorite for the NBA Rookie of the Year award. With minus-money odds, Flagg is seen as a strong contender to secure significant hardware in his inaugural NBA season. His status as the top pick and his favorable odds suggest high expectations for his immediate impact on the Mavericks and across the league. Analysts are already debating whether betting on him for Rookie of the Year still offers value given his strong position.

Franz Wagner Delivers Top-40 Fantasy Value for Orlando Magic Amidst Career-Highs

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Orlando Magic forward Franz Wagner is a favored fantasy option for the 2025-26 season, outperforming teammate Paolo Banchero in analyst projections. Last season, Wagner provided top-40 per-game value in eight- and nine-category leagues, achieving career-high averages of 24.2 points, 5.7 rebounds, 4.7 assists, 1.3 steals, and 1.7 three-pointers across 60 games. He maintained strong shooting percentages at 46.3% from the field and 87.1% from the foul line. Despite a three-point shooting concern (29.5% last season, below 30% for two years), this is mitigated as it's not a scoring category in default fantasy leagues.

Zion Williamson Poised for Elite Fantasy Season with Expected Minute Increase

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New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson is a top fantasy pick for the 2025-26 season, with analysts highlighting his elite talent. He significantly boosted his points, rebounds, assists, blocks, and steals per game from 2023-24 to 2024-25, despite playing under 30 minutes for the first time since his rookie year. Expectations are high for his numbers to climb further with an anticipated increase in minutes. Optimism surrounds his potential for a high fantasy ranking by season's end, contingent on improved injury luck and sustained health.

Victor Wembanyama's Summer of Exploration Follows Deep Vein Thrombosis Experience

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San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama spent his summer in exploration, engaging in activities such as Kung Fu and meditation, following a 'traumatic experience' with deep vein thrombosis. This health event prompted the young player to delve into various practices as part of his return and preparation. The 'Dream Shake' is also highlighted as an element of his summer focus, indicating a diverse approach to his development and recovery for the upcoming season.