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NBA News

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

Wednesday, October 8, 2025

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.

DeMar DeRozan's Declining Production and Fantasy Outlook Amidst Emotional Raptors Reunion

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Sacramento Kings star DeMar DeRozan, at 36, is facing projections of declining fantasy value despite his consistent availability over the past decade. Rotoworld analysts note a significant drop in his athleticism, evidenced by fewer rim attempts and a decreased ability to create his own shots, leading to more reliance on teammates. With minimal roster changes for the Kings and the addition of Dennis Schröder potentially taking more touches, his production is not expected to surpass last season's. Off the court, DeRozan expressed excitement to play his former team, the Toronto Raptors, in the 2025 preseason opener, calling Toronto "home" and emphasizing his deep connection to the city, despite being caught in the Kendrick Lamar-Drake beef last season. He also sees the matchup against the Raptors' length (Brandon Ingram, RJ Barrett, Scottie Barnes) as beneficial for the Kings.

Tuesday, October 7, 2025

Matas Buzelis Poised for Starting Role and Top-50 Fantasy Value with Bulls

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Matas Buzelis, the 11th pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, had a serviceable but inconsistent rookie season, finishing outside the top 250 in 9-category formats due to limited minutes early on. However, he showed significant promise late in the season. In 16 games during the final month, when given a meaningful role, Buzelis averaged 14.1 points, 4.9 rebounds, 0.8 steals, 1.3 blocks, and 2.3 three-pointers in 26.8 minutes, achieving top-70 value. Common sense suggests he will be in the starting lineup for Opening Night, playing upwards of 28 minutes. With increased opportunities and skill development, Buzelis (Yahoo ADP: 95) could flirt with top-50 fantasy value throughout the season.

Ausar Thompson Fully Healthy, Primed for Sophomore Breakout with Pistons

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After a promising rookie season, Ausar Thompson's 2024-25 campaign was hampered by health concerns and restricted playing time, limiting him to 22.5 minutes per game. Now fully healthy for the 2025-26 season, Thompson is poised for a reset and significant growth. His per-game numbers were encouraging, showing steps forward on both ends with averages of 10.1 points, 5.1 rebounds, 2.3 assists, 1.7 steals, and 0.7 blocks, shooting 53.5% from the field. Following his twin brother Amen's sophomore surge, Ausar is expected to take big steps forward with a projected 30% increase in playing time. Drafted typically in the seventh or eighth round (Yahoo ADP: 87), he possesses a top-40 ceiling, offering substantial fantasy value.

Jakob Poeltl Set for Increased Minutes and Top-30 Fantasy Upside with Raptors

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Jakob Poeltl, often overlooked in fantasy drafts, provided a reliable inside presence for the Toronto Raptors in the 2024-25 season. With a healthy Brandon Ingram and a wide-open Eastern Conference, the Raptors' top-end talent is intriguing. Poeltl finished last season as the 44th-ranked player in 9-cat leagues, posting career highs in scoring (14.5 points), rebounds (9.6), and steals (1.2), alongside 2.8 assists and 1.2 blocks, shooting 62.7% from the field. With minimal competition for minutes, he could log over 30 minutes per game for the first time in his career. Small improvements could see him crack the top 30, making him a significant value pick from his Yahoo ADP of 81.

Quinten Post Learning from Al Horford, Aims for Versatile Sophomore Season

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Second-year Warriors center Quinten Post is actively learning from new teammate Al Horford, picking his brain to elevate his game on both ends of the court. Post, who had a solid rookie season, shares a similar offensive role as a spacer with Horford. He aims to incorporate Horford's aggressive approach to finding his own shot and attacking the rim. As a rookie, Post shot 44.9% from the field and 40.8% from three on 4.3 attempts. He aspires to become a more versatile center beyond just shooting in his sophomore season. Horford praises Post as a "very high IQ type player" who understands the game, can shoot, and consistently works hard, believing he has the tools to succeed.

Al Horford Mentors Quinten Post, Praises Young Warrior's High IQ and Work Ethic

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Veteran Al Horford has quickly made an impact on second-year Warriors center Quinten Post, who is actively seeking advice from his new teammate. Horford, an 18-year veteran and five-time NBA All-Star, plays a similar offensive role as a spacer but is noted for his aggressive shot-seeking and rim attacks. Defensively, he is praised for his steady play, positioning, and athleticism despite being 39. Horford, who has shot 46.9% from the field and 40.9% from three over the last three seasons, believes Post is a "very high IQ type player" who "understands how to play" and "can really shoot the ball." He commends Post's consistent work ethic and listening ability, noting visible flashes of success.

Jaylen Clark Exits Preseason Game with Neck Spasms After Collision

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Minnesota Timberwolves forward Jaylen Clark was ruled out of Tuesday's preseason game against the Indiana Pacers due to neck spasms, following a hard head-to-head collision with Pacers guard Delon Wright in the second quarter. Clark, who was attempting a steal, remained on his feet after the impact but was assessed a foul. He finished the game with a rebound and an assist in eight minutes, without scoring. Last season, during his rookie campaign with Minnesota, Clark averaged 4.1 points. The Timberwolves are preparing for their season-opener against the Portland Trail Blazers on October 22, with four more preseason games remaining.

Delon Wright Exits Preseason Game Early After Head Collision, Status Unknown

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Indiana Pacers guard Delon Wright was forced to leave Tuesday’s preseason victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves in the second quarter due to a head injury. Wright sustained a hard blow to the head after a collision with Timberwolves forward Jaylen Clark while dribbling near halfcourt. He was helped off the court and ruled out for the remainder of the game, with further specifics on his condition pending. Before his exit, the 33-year-old veteran recorded two points in four minutes. Wright, who was drafted by the Toronto Raptors in 2015, is currently on a training camp contract with the Pacers, battling for a final roster spot, which would mark his sixth team in the last four seasons.

Marcus Smart Returns to Lakers Practice, Showcasing Elite Defensive Tenacity and Vocal Leadership

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Veteran guard Marcus Smart made a significant return to Los Angeles Lakers practice, participating in most of the session, including live play, despite ongoing Achilles tendinopathy. Coach JJ Redick praised Smart's ability to maintain intensity, while teammates quickly felt his impact. Austin Reaves noted Smart's intense defensive pressure and vital communication, emphasizing his experience winning at the highest level. Jarred Vanderbilt highlighted Smart's vocal leadership and physicality, envisioning the duo "causing havoc" as defensive anchors. Smart, a former DPOY (2021-22) and three-time All-Defensive First Team selection, signed a two-year, $11 million deal with the Lakers after a buyout from the Washington Wizards, following calls from Luka Doncic to join the team. His presence is expected to significantly bolster the Lakers' defense.

Julius Randle Available for Timberwolves' Preseason Game Against Pacers

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Julius Randle, previously listed for rest, has been confirmed available for the Minnesota Timberwolves' preseason game on Tuesday against the Indiana Pacers. This update, reported by Dane Moore of 'The Dane Moore NBA Podcast', indicates Randle is ready to return to action after being held out for rest, providing a positive outlook for his participation in the upcoming exhibition contest.

Anthony Edwards Cleared to Play in Timberwolves' Tuesday Preseason Opener

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Anthony Edwards, who was previously listed for rest, is confirmed to play in the Minnesota Timberwolves' preseason game on Tuesday against the Indiana Pacers. This update was reported by Dane Moore of 'The Dane Moore NBA Podcast', indicating that Edwards is good to go for the upcoming exhibition contest. Fans can expect to see the star guard on the court as the Timberwolves kick off their preseason schedule, providing an early look at his form.

Lauri Markkanen Sidelined for Jazz's Preseason Opener Due to Wrist Injury

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Lauri Markkanen will not be available for the Utah Jazz's preseason game on Wednesday, where they are scheduled to face the Houston Rockets. The forward is dealing with a wrist injury, as reported by Andy Larsen of The Salt Lake Tribune. His absence means the Jazz will be without a key player as they begin their preseason schedule, with his status for subsequent games to be monitored. The team will need to adjust its lineup accordingly for the opener.

Walker Kessler Out for Utah Jazz's Preseason Game Against Rockets with Shoulder Issue

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Walker Kessler has been ruled out of the Utah Jazz's preseason opener on Wednesday, where they are scheduled to face the Houston Rockets. The center is sidelined due to a shoulder injury, according to Andy Larsen of The Salt Lake Tribune. Kessler's absence will impact the Jazz's frontcourt rotation as they begin their exhibition slate without him. The team will likely rely on other big men to fill the void in the upcoming contest.

LeBron James Likely to Miss Entire Preseason, Regular Season Opener Status Uncertain

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Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James is reportedly "likely" to miss the entirety of the upcoming preseason. This development raises questions regarding his availability for the Lakers' regular season opener, where they are scheduled to face the Warriors. The report indicates uncertainty about whether James will be ready to play when the regular season commences.

Jalen Duren Listed Day-to-Day Due to Hamstring Tightness

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Detroit Pistons center Jalen Duren is currently listed as day-to-day as he manages hamstring tightness. This update was reported by Omari Sankofa II of the Detroit Free Press on October 7, 2025, indicating his status will be closely monitored by the team. While a precise return timeline is not specified, his day-to-day designation suggests a potentially short-term absence. Further analysis on this update is available via RotoWire.com, and the Pistons are expected to exercise caution with their young big man's recovery.

Jonathan Kuminga's Fit with Warriors Stars Raises Spacing Concerns for Coach Steve Kerr

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Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr expressed "concern" regarding Jonathan Kuminga's integration with the team's star players, Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and Jimmy Butler, following Sunday's preseason win against the Los Angeles Lakers. Kuminga, who recently signed a two-year, $48.5 million contract to remain with Golden State, played 15 minutes and scored five points in the game. Kerr noted a significant lack of spacing when Kuminga shared the floor with the "Big Three," observing that the offense sputtered. The issue stems from Kuminga, Green, and Butler not being strong 3-point shooters, which limits floor spacing. Kerr is hopeful that the addition of center Al Horford will change the dynamic, expressing intrigue about lineups featuring Horford and Kuminga alongside Green or Butler, calling it a "perfect sense" fit. The Warriors plan to continue exploring options to unlock the 23-year-old Kuminga, acknowledging the current fit is "not smooth."

Devin Vassell Expected to Play in Wednesday's Preseason Game Against Heat

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San Antonio Spurs guard Devin Vassell, who has been listed with rest, is anticipated to play in Wednesday's preseason game against the Miami Heat. This update was reported by Jeff McDonald of the San Antonio Express-News, indicating Vassell's likely return to the court for the upcoming exhibition contest.

Darius Garland Completes Light Workout as He Recovers from Toe Injury

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Cleveland Cavaliers point guard Darius Garland, who is currently dealing with a toe injury, went through a light individual workout on Tuesday. This activity occurred after the team's shootaround, as reported by Chris Fedor of The Cleveland Plain Dealer. Garland's participation in the workout signifies a positive step in his recovery process.

Josh Hart Misses Knicks Practice Tuesday Due to Back Ailment

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New York Knicks forward Josh Hart was notably absent from team practice on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, as he is currently managing a back ailment. This development was reported by Ian Begley of SportsNet New York, highlighting a potential health concern for the Knicks' roster. Hart's inability to participate in Tuesday's session suggests the team is taking a cautious approach with his recovery. Fans and fantasy managers will be closely monitoring for further updates regarding his condition and availability for future team activities, as his presence is crucial for the Knicks.