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NBA News

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

Wednesday, October 1, 2025

James Harden's Second Season with Clippers Documented in Netflix's 'Starting 5'

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Longtime NBA player James Harden is prominently featured in the Season 2 trailer for the Netflix series "Starting 5," which was released Wednesday. The show will follow Harden through his 2024-25 season, documenting his journey with the Los Angeles Clippers from the beginning of his second season with the team. The series promises to capture all the on-court and off-court ups and downs as he pursues a championship, offering an in-depth look at his experiences.

Kevin Durant Featured in Netflix's 'Starting 5' Season 2, Debuts with Houston Rockets

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Longtime NBA player Kevin Durant is a featured star in the newly released Season 2 trailer of the Netflix series "Starting 5," which follows him and other players through their 2024-25 season championship pursuits. The series chronicles his 17th year in the league as the Phoenix Suns struggled. Looking ahead, Durant is set to debut with his new team, the Houston Rockets, facing the defending NBA Champion Oklahoma City Thunder and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander on October 21 at 7:30 p.m. ET, marking the start of the 2025-26 NBA season.

Scoot Henderson Faces Crucial Audition Season for Trail Blazers' Future

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The Portland Trail Blazers' 2025-26 season hinges on the development of Scoot Henderson, the No. 3 pick in the 2023 draft. Entering his third season at 21, Henderson faces the critical question of whether he can become the star the Blazers need. He suffered a hamstring tear during an offseason workout, sidelining him for four to eight weeks. Last season, Henderson averaged 13.3 points on below-average shooting splits (40/34/79) with 2.7 turnovers to 5.1 assists, though he showed flashes of stardom with 39 points against the Nets and a 21-5-11 outing off the bench. The team has built around him, pairing him with veteran Jrue Holiday and welcoming back Damian Lillard, who will spend the season rehabbing but will be influential. Coach Chauncey Billups also aims to guide Henderson. Henderson becomes eligible for a rookie contract extension this season, making his performance crucial for future financial decisions. The best-case scenario sees Henderson emerging as a star, with supporting players like Deni Avdija, Donovan Clingan, and Shaedon Sharpe developing. If he doesn't prove to be the franchise cornerstone, the Blazers may need to re-enter the search for a superstar. The team's win projection is set at 34.5, with an over/under of 34.5 wins, and they are projected to miss the playoffs.

LaMelo Ball's Availability is Key for Hornets' Play-In Aspirations in 2025-26

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The Charlotte Hornets' 2025-26 season hinges on the availability and performance of their star point guard, LaMelo Ball. Ball has played more than 51 games only once in his five-year career, largely due to persistent ankle injuries. Last season, the Hornets struggled significantly without him, going 3-32 in games he missed and being outscored by 13.3 points per 100 possessions. In the 47 games he did play, the team went 16-31 and was outscored by 3.9 points per 100 possessions. The Hornets need to assess if Ball and No. 2 pick Brandon Miller, who missed the final three months of last season with wrist surgery, can form a cohesive core. Both players are reportedly healthy entering training camp. The team has added veteran talent like Collin Sexton and Spencer Dinwiddie to provide complementary ball-handling and scoring, with Mark Williams and Nick Richards being among notable subtractions. Second-year coach Charles Lee aims to implement an uptempo style. The best-case scenario involves Ball and Miller staying healthy and developing, leading the Hornets to the play-in tournament. If Ball can't stay on the floor, and the offense and defense remain in the bottom 10, the Hornets will likely find themselves in the lottery again. The team's over/under win total is set at 27.5.

Tuesday, September 30, 2025

Warriors Anticipate De'Anthony Melton Missing Early Portion of 2025-26 Season

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The Golden State Warriors reportedly anticipate free-agent addition De'Anthony Melton will miss the early portion of the 2025-26 NBA season as he concludes the final stages of his ACL rehabilitation. ESPN’s Anthony Slater reported on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, citing sources, that Melton, who reportedly agreed to a contract with the Warriors on Sunday, had ACL surgery in early December, approximately 10 months prior. While the Warriors are pleased with his current progress, they plan to take a careful approach to his return. Melton had initially signed with Golden State last offseason, playing six games before tearing his ACL on November 12 against the Dallas Mavericks. His contract was subsequently traded to the Brooklyn Nets on December 15 in a deal that brought Dennis Schröder to the Bay. After missing the majority of the 2024-25 season, the 27-year-old guard is set to return to the Warriors, where his seventh NBA season began, and is expected to provide reliable two-way depth at the guard position once he is ready to play.

Jared McCain Undergoes Successful Thumb Surgery, Faces Four-Week Re-evaluation

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Philadelphia 76ers guard Jared McCain successfully underwent surgery on Tuesday, October 1, 2025, to repair a UCL tear in his right thumb. The procedure was performed by Dr. Michelle Carson at the Hospital for Special Surgery. The Sixers announced that McCain will be re-evaluated in approximately four weeks, marking the first timeline detail since he suffered the injury last Thursday. This injury ensures McCain will miss the start of his second season and will not be available for the team's planned guard-heavy attack. This latest setback follows a season-ending left lateral meniscus tear he sustained on December 13 of his rookie year. Teammate Tyrese Maxey expressed support, acknowledging McCain's hard work in returning from his previous knee injury and praising his positive attitude, work ethic, shooting, passing, defense, and overall team contributions.

Reed Sheppard Set for Expanded Role with Rockets After Fred VanVleet Injury

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Reed Sheppard, identified as a 2025-26 fantasy basketball sleeper, is expected to see a significant boost in production for the Houston Rockets. His rookie season was largely unimpressive, averaging just 4.4 points on 35.1 percent shooting in 12.6 minutes over 52 appearances. However, he is now in line for a much more substantial role due to starting point guard Fred VanVleet suffering a torn ACL, potentially sidelining him for the season. Known for his three-point shooting, playmaking, and pesky defense, Sheppard has a prime opportunity to settle into his game with increased playing time. The presence of Kevin Durant in the lineup should further benefit him by drawing defensive attention and opening up the floor.

Bub Carrington Primed for Sophomore Breakout as Wizards' Starting Point Guard

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Bub Carrington, a predominant rookie last season, is poised for a significant sophomore breakout in 2025-26, making him a fantasy basketball sleeper. He immediately took on a substantial role for the Washington Wizards, starting his first game and 57 total appearances while playing all 82 games. Despite averaging 9.8 points per outing on 40.1 percent shooting, he showcased well-rounded capabilities with 4.2 rebounds, 4.4 assists, and 0.7 steals per game. Carrington is expected to continue as the starting point guard and should benefit from the veteran presence of CJ McCollum and Khris Middleton, aiming for a huge boost in production and improved efficiency.

Jonathan Kuminga Signs $48.5 Million Deal, Ending Warriors Standoff and Shaping Roster

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Jonathan Kuminga has officially signed a new two-year, $48.5 million contract with the Golden State Warriors, ending a summer standoff that began in June. Kuminga secured significantly more money but reportedly compromised on his desire for a starting role, trade veto power, and 30 minutes per night. The Warriors retained crucial flexibility with a team option, avoiding Kuminga's potential departure as an unrestricted free agent. This agreement, finalized eight days into autumn, allows the Warriors to fill their roster. Al Horford is set to sign a two-year, $5.7 million deal and practice immediately. Seth Curry and De’Anthony Melton will sign veteran-minimum deals, but only one can be added by November 12 due to cap constraints; Melton's ACL rehabilitation makes Curry the more immediate option. The team's competitiveness hinges on the health of key veterans like Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler III, Draymond Green, and Horford, with Kuminga's performance crucial. The Warriors also retain the option to trade Kuminga between January 15 and February 5, 2026.

LeBron James Sidelined for Lakers Training Camp Start with Glute Nerve Irritation

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Los Angeles Lakers head coach J.J. Redick announced Tuesday that LeBron James will miss the start of training camp due to "nerve irritation in the glute." The team plans a cautious, slower ramp-up for the 40-year-old, 23rd-year veteran, with Redick noting James "probably did too much last year in camp." Emphasizing a "long game" approach given James' extensive wear and tear, Redick stated, "It's probably a little bit longer of a ramp-up leading up to opening night for him." Despite playing 70 games in the 2024-25 season, his second-highest tally since 2018-19, James dealt with high-profile foot, ankle, and MCL injuries. The Lakers are prioritizing his health for a potential title run, especially in what could be his last season playing alongside Luka Dončić.

Stephen Curry to Play Alongside Brother Seth for Golden State Warriors in 2025-26

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Stephen Curry is set to play alongside his brother, Seth Curry, for the first time in their professional careers, starting in the 2025-26 NBA season. A report published on October 1, 2025, confirms that Seth Curry has signed with the Golden State Warriors, making this highly anticipated reunion possible. The Curry brothers are now expected to take the court together as teammates for the Warriors, an event that will undoubtedly draw significant attention.

Seth Curry Joins Brother Steph on Warriors with One-Year Free-Agent Deal

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Seth Curry, younger brother of superstar Steph Curry, has signed a one-year free-agent contract with the Golden State Warriors, announced October 1, 2025, marking their first time playing together in the NBA. NBA insider Marc Stein reported Curry will initially join on an Exhibit 9 contract, requiring a waiver and re-signing around November 15 for apron flexibility, due to Jonathan Kuminga's recent two-year, $48.5 million deal preventing a 15th player until then. Entering his 12th NBA season, this will be Curry's 10th team; he was previously waived by Golden State after going undrafted in 2013. A renowned sharpshooter, Seth averaged 10.0 points (47.1% FG, 43.3% 3P), 2.0 rebounds, and 1.9 assists in 22.5 minutes over 550 career games (224 starts). Last season (2024-25) with the Charlotte Hornets, he achieved a career- and league-best 45.6% from deep on nearly 3.0 attempts. In July, he had discussed the possibility, stating he had to do "what’s best for myself," but acknowledged Steph and the family would love it, adding, "you never know what can happen." The long-anticipated reunion has now come to fruition.

Tyler Herro Ahead of Schedule, Expected Back in 8-12 Weeks from Foot/Ankle Injury

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Miami Heat guard Tyler Herro has shared an encouraging update regarding his recovery from a foot and ankle injury. On Tuesday, Herro stated that he is currently ahead of schedule in his rehabilitation process. As reported by Wes Goldberg of the Locked On Podcast Network, the talented guard expects to be back on the court and ready for game action within an 8-12 week period. This positive development suggests a potentially earlier return than initially anticipated, which would be a significant boost for the Miami Heat as they prepare for the upcoming season.

Scottie Barnes Fully Recovered from Lingering Hand Injury Ahead of New Season

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Toronto Raptors forward Scottie Barnes has confirmed his full recovery from a lingering hand injury that affected him at the conclusion of the 2024-25 campaign. Following the season, Barnes took a couple of weeks off to allow the injury to heal completely. He reported feeling "a lot better" as he looks forward to the 2025-26 season, according to Josh Lewenberg of TSN.ca. This positive health update ensures Barnes will be ready to contribute without limitations as the Raptors begin their preparations.

Victor Wembanyama Cleared for Full Participation in San Antonio Spurs Training Camp

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San Antonio Spurs' rising star Victor Wembanyama is slated for full participation in the team's upcoming training camp, with no restrictions. This positive news comes directly from head coach Mitch Johnson, as reported by NBA reporter Matthew Tynan. Wembanyama's unrestricted status indicates that he is in excellent health and fully prepared to engage in all team activities, setting a strong foundation for his performance in the highly anticipated 2025-26 season.

John Collins' Starting Role with Clippers Remains Uncertain as Coach Lue Non-Committal

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Los Angeles Clippers coach Tyronn Lue expressed uncertainty regarding John Collins' potential starting position at power forward. According to Tomer Azarly of ClutchPoints.com, Coach Lue told reporters he "can't remember" if Collins will indeed be in the starting lineup. This update, published on September 30, 2025, suggests that Collins' role for the upcoming season is still being determined by the coaching staff, leaving his immediate future in the starting five unclear.

Bradley Beal Confirmed as Clippers' Starting Shooting Guard Despite Knee Concern

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Bradley Beal is set to assume the role of the Los Angeles Clippers' starting shooting guard, as reported by Tomer Azarly of ClutchPoints.com. Despite a recent mention of a knee concern, the report, published on September 30, 2025, confirms his position in the starting lineup. This solidifies Beal's immediate role with the Clippers, indicating the team's confidence in his ability to contribute significantly from the outset of the season.

Miles Bridges Focused on Conditioning, Ready for Training Camp After Hip Recovery

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Charlotte Hornets forward Miles Bridges, who had been dealing with a hip issue, is reportedly "all systems go" for the upcoming training camp. During the offseason, Bridges dedicated his efforts to improving his conditioning, as reported by Sam Perley of the Hornets' official site. This focus on fitness suggests he is prepared to return to full activity. Additional analysis regarding this update can be found on RotoWire.com.

Warriors Star Jimmy Butler Announces Permanent BIGFACE Coffee Location in Bay Area

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Golden State Warriors forward Jimmy Butler has announced plans to open a permanent BIGFACE coffee shop in the Bay Area, aiming for a February or March 2026 opening. Butler, who started his coffee brand in the 2020 NBA bubble while with the Miami Heat, opened its first flagship store in Miami in December 2024. He expressed deep personal involvement in the business, stating, "I spend a lot of time doing this coffee thing. I go and I visit these farms and I get to pick ‘em myself." Following successful temporary pop-ups, including one in San Francisco's Mission District in July, Butler views BIGFACE as a way to "humanize myself" beyond his basketball career. Acquired by the Warriors at the 2025 NBA trade deadline, he hopes to establish himself in the Bay's coffee scene as well as on the court.

Steve Kerr Outlines Key Improvements for Brandin Podziemski in Third Warriors Season

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Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr believes Brandin Podziemski will take another significant step in his third NBA season, building on a second year where he made a big leap through the 'crucible' of starting and playoff pressure. Kerr wants Podziemski to maintain his shooting aggression and, crucially, improve his emotional maturity, specifically by 'leaving the refs alone,' which he sees as vital for Podziemski's energy, mindset, and the team's composure. Podziemski agreed, stating emotional maturity is key for his next leap and for him to be a reliable focal point when veterans inevitably miss games. Last season, Podziemski started 11 of 12 playoff games, averaging 11.3 points on 36.4% shooting, highlighted by a 26-point effort in Game 4 against Houston. After missing 12 games due to injury from late December to late January, he returned strong, averaging 14.9 points on 46.9% field goal and 41.2% three-point shooting in his final 34 regular season games.