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NBA News

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

Tuesday, September 30, 2025

Kawhi Leonard Addresses Sponsor Allegations, Citing 'Fraud' and Defending Clippers' Reputation

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Los Angeles Clippers star Kawhi Leonard publicly addressed allegations regarding a 2022 contract with team sponsor Aspiration, a now-bankrupt sustainability services company, at his team's media day on Monday. Leonard vehemently denied the claims, labeling them "conspiracies" and "clickbait," while emphasizing Aspiration's "fraudulent" activities. The allegations suggest Leonard signed a four-year, $28 million deal with Aspiration, with an understanding that the compensation was on behalf of the Clippers, circumventing the salary cap, and that he wasn't required to perform services. Leonard countered, stating he understood the contract terms and "the services that I had to do," indicating active participation. He also highlighted Aspiration's bankruptcy and co-founder Joseph Sanberg's guilty plea to wire fraud, suggesting the accusers' materials stem from fraudulent operations. Court filings from March 31 show Aspiration owes Leonard approximately $7 million, along with $30.1 million to the Clippers and $5 million to the Boston Red Sox. The NBA is investigating these allegations, which, if proven, could lead to severe penalties for the Clippers, including fines, draft pick forfeiture, and even termination of Leonard's 2021 $176.3 million max contract. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver has stated the league will require reliable evidence and due process for any determination.

Giannis Antetokounmpo Recovers from COVID, Confirms Annual Future Re-evaluation with Bucks

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Giannis Antetokounmpo, currently recovering from a case of COVID and expected to return in the coming days, zoomed into Bucks media day Monday from his home. He expressed being "all-in" on the Bucks this season, believing in his teammates, and called the team "very, very dangerous." Antetokounmpo confirmed that he re-evaluated his future with the Bucks over the summer, stating this is a consistent annual process driven by his desire to be on a championship-contending team and compete at a high level. He considers it a "disservice to basketball" to not want to compete at a high level, citing similar thoughts in previous years. Having won a bronze medal with Greece at EuroBasket, which he called "Probably the greatest accomplishment in my life," he now seeks that feeling again in Milwaukee. Despite the Bucks' moves to sign Myles Turner, Antetokounmpo remains clear he will move on if he feels the team cannot compete for a title. A minor discrepancy arose when Bucks owner Wes Edens stated Giannis committed in a June meeting, which Antetokounmpo said he could not recall.

Lauri Markkanen Sidelined from Practice Due to Wrist Injury

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Utah Jazz forward Lauri Markkanen is currently dealing with a wrist injury, which prevented him from participating in Tuesday's practice. Further analysis on this update is available via RotoWire.com.

Kevin Durant Open to Contract Extension with Houston Rockets

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Kevin Durant, who is currently dealing with an an ankle injury, appears to be very open to the idea of signing a contract extension with the Houston Rockets. This development was reported by Danielle Lerner of the Houston Chronicle, with additional analysis available on RotoWire.com.

Anfernee Simons Fully Healthy for Boston Celtics Training Camp

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Boston Celtics guard Anfernee Simons, who had been dealing with a forearm injury, is reportedly healthy and appears to have no limitations as training camp begins. This positive update comes from Souichi Terada of The Springfield Republican, with further analysis available on RotoWire.com.

Kyle Kuzma Identified Among NBA Players Most Likely to Be Traded Before Deadline

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Milwaukee Bucks player Kyle Kuzma has been identified as one of the NBA players most likely to be traded before the upcoming deadline. The article suggests that while not every trade is a blockbuster, some are predictable, placing Kuzma in this category. No specific reasons or potential destinations for a trade were provided, but his inclusion indicates a strong likelihood of a move.

Brandon Miller Highlighted as Top Middle-Round Draft Pick for Championship Aspirants

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Brandon Miller, representing the Charlotte Hornets, has been prominently featured as a top middle-round target for teams focused on assembling a championship-caliber roster. According to a report from September 30, 2025, the strategy for building a successful team involves identifying solid contributors after the early rounds of the draft. Miller is specifically mentioned as one of eight players that teams should concentrate on to bolster their rosters with impactful talent beyond the initial high-profile selections.

Andrew Nembhard Identified as Key Middle-Round Target for Championship Roster Construction

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Andrew Nembhard, a player for the Indiana Pacers, has been specifically identified as a top middle-round target for teams aiming to build a championship-caliber roster. The analysis, published on September 30, 2025, emphasizes the importance of finding solid contributors beyond the initial rounds of the draft. Nembhard is listed among eight players who should be a primary focus for teams looking to secure valuable talent in the later stages of their draft process, underscoring his potential impact as a crucial piece for competitive NBA franchises.

Jalen Suggs Progresses with Non-Contact Drills Amidst Knee Recovery

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Orlando Magic guard Jalen Suggs, who is currently dealing with a knee injury, participated in non-contact drills during Tuesday's practice. This development was reported by Cody Taylor of USA Today, signaling a positive step in his rehabilitation. Additional analysis regarding Suggs' status is available through RotoWire.com.

Anthony Davis Confirms Permanent Use of Protective Eyewear Due to Eye Injury

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Anthony Davis, a prominent player for the Dallas Mavericks, has confirmed that he will wear protective eyewear for the entirety of his remaining playing career. This decision stems from an ongoing eye issue, as reported by Mike Curtis of The Dallas Morning News on September 30, 2025. The update indicates a long-term adjustment for Davis to manage his eye condition on the court, with RotoWire.com also providing additional analysis and context regarding this significant development for the player.

Dylan Harper Expresses Optimism for Preseason Return Following Thumb Injury

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Dylan Harper, a player for the San Antonio Spurs, shared an optimistic update regarding his recovery from a thumb injury at Media Day on Monday, September 30, 2025. Harper stated that there is a distinct possibility he could participate in the upcoming preseason games. This potential return was conveyed by Spurs reporter Raul Dominguez, highlighting a positive outlook for Harper's availability. RotoWire.com also provided further analysis on this development, offering additional insights into his recovery timeline and potential impact.

Jaylen Brown Ramps Up for Camp; Valued in Fantasy Punt Builds

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Jaylen Brown (knee) stated at Media Day on Monday that he is ramping up well and progressing ahead of training camp. The Boston Celtics guard is also identified as a valuable target in fantasy basketball drafts for managers employing a field-goal percentage punt strategy. He is considered a "Third round and later" option in such builds, specifically noted for having shot 42 percent or worse from the field last season, which boosts his value in this particular fantasy category.

Tyrese Maxey Fully Active for Camp; Valued in Fantasy Punt Builds

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Tyrese Maxey (finger) has been a full participant at the start of training camp, as reported by Adam Aaronson of Philly Voice. The Philadelphia 76ers guard is also highlighted in fantasy basketball analysis, identified as a second-round target for managers punting rebounds. He was a top-5 player in rebounds punt builds for the 2024-25 season and also appeared in the top-12 for blocks punt builds, indicating his versatile fantasy value depending on strategy.

Zion Williamson's Health and Accountability Crucial for Pelicans' 2025-26 Playoff Hopes

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New Orleans Pelicans star Zion Williamson, 25, is entering his seventh season having played only 214 total games, making his health and performance the "Big Question" for the 2025-26 season. The Pelicans, who finished 21-61 last season (14th in West) with a 29th defensive rating, face high stakes after controversial offseason draft decisions, including trading valuable 2026 first-round picks for Derik Queen, drawing widespread criticism. Williamson's past includes a 2022-23 season where he led the Pelicans to title contention before a season-ending hamstring injury, and a 2023-24 season playing 70 games but with dipped stats and another hamstring injury in the play-in. The team needs him to replicate his 2020-21 All-Star form (61 games, 27 PPG, 61.1% FG) or sustain his improved playmaking from last season for 70 games. Executive VP Joe Dumars guaranteed his contract, calling for him to be "responsible and accountable." Williamson has responded by getting in what appears to be the best shape of his career, stating he feels his best since Duke and is ready to give "whatever my team needs." A healthy Williamson, alongside Herb Jones and Trey Murphy III, is vital for the Pelicans to avoid a "catastrophic outcome" and potentially hand the Hawks a top-five draft pick, especially given the team's 30.5 over/under win total. The team's fate, including the $65.9 million investment in Jordan Poole, hinges on Williamson staying on the court.

Spurs' De'Aaron Fox to Miss Season Start, Targeting November 1 Return from Hamstring Injury

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San Antonio Spurs point guard De'Aaron Fox confirmed at media day that he is still recovering from a right hamstring injury and "doesn't think I'll be ready for opening night." Fox, who will also miss training camp and likely the preseason, is targeting a November 1 return. While Fox stated, "I feel good. I felt like I could have played a little bit ago, but they're not letting me," the team's medical staff is taking a cautious approach to prevent reinjury. His delayed return cuts into crucial time needed to build chemistry with Victor Wembanyama, which is considered essential for the Spurs to make a leap into the playoffs in the crowded Western Conference. The absence also postpones the meshing process with No. 2 pick Dylan Harper and reigning Rookie of the Year Stephon Castle, impacting the team's aspirations to climb the Western standings in what is supposed to be their first season out of rebuilding.

Jayson Tatum's Achilles Recovery Progressing at Unprecedented Rate, Eyeing Early Return

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Jayson Tatum's recovery from Achilles surgery, sustained in Game 4 of the Celtics' second-round playoff series against the New York Knicks, is described as potentially "unprecedented" by Chris Forsberg due to his aggressive rehab. Tatum underwent surgery in New York less than 12 hours after the rupture and spent his entire offseason at the Boston Celtics' training facility. Approximately four months post-operation, he is already engaging in basketball drills, surprising teammates. Dr. Martin O’Malley performed the surgery, possibly a "SpeedBridge" repair, contributing to his rapid progress. Tatum has a specific date in mind to be "100 percent" and plans to return during a home game. Forsberg has advanced his projected return from March 4 to February, or even January, contingent on confidence in preventing re-aggravation and ensuring adequate strength.

Deandre Ayton Embraces Lakers' "Last Chance" Opportunity, Fueled by Disrespect

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Lakers center Deandre Ayton, 27, views his move to Los Angeles as the "biggest opportunity" and potentially his "last chance" to resurrect his career after an inconsistent tenure in Portland, where he was bought out and criticized for his work ethic. Participating in media day, Ayton expressed readiness for a "revenge tour," stating he's an "Angry Ayton" fueled by past disrespect and doubt, which he plans to channel into winning alongside Luka Doncic. His starting role appears solidified, especially after the blockbuster trade that brought Doncic and left a void at center. Teammate Maxi Kleber noted Ayton's improved strength and physical presence. Ayton anticipates Doncic's pick-and-roll expertise will help him rediscover the dominance he showed with the Phoenix Suns in 2021 and 2022, eager to chase a championship with the Lakers.

Draymond Green Aims for 10th All-Defensive Team, Vows to Prove Elite Status

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Draymond Green, 35, is embarking on a quest to re-establish his elite defensive status for the Golden State Warriors' 2025-26 season, despite struggling against Julius Randle in the previous Western Conference semifinals. Randle, who is taller, heavier, and younger, averaged 25.2 points on 53.3% shooting, 7.4 assists, and 6.6 rebounds, scoring 60 points in Games 4 and 5 against Green. Green acknowledges Randle's strong performance but remains confident in his mental game and physical capabilities, despite changes since age 27. While his unique defensive contributions were vital to past "Death Lineups," he recognizes the need for young teammates like Trayce Jackson-Davis, Buddy Hield, Brandin Podziemski, and Jonathan Kuminga to provide energy. A nine-time All-Defensive team selection, Green is highly motivated to earn his 10th honor, aiming to join NBA legends like Abdul-Jabbar, Bryant, Duncan, Garnett, and Pippen. Turning 36 next March, his pursuit is challenging given strong candidates such as Victor Wembanyama, Lu Dort, and Evan Mobley, but his defensive resurgence is critical for the Warriors' aspirations.

Monday, September 29, 2025

Jaylen Brown Embraces Expanded Leadership Role for Celtics Amidst Tatum's Absence

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Boston Celtics four-time All-Star Jaylen Brown is stepping into an expanded leadership role both on and off the court as the team prepares for the season without Jayson Tatum. Brown anticipates increased responsibility, particularly as a playmaker, a role he believes he has demonstrated throughout his career. He views Tatum's absence as an opportunity to empower teammates, accelerate their learning curve, and play good basketball. Off the court, Brown is actively fostering team cohesion, having invited all Celtics members to a New England Patriots game on Sunday and hosting Bill Nye the Science Guy at media day for team-building experiments. Teammate Sam Hauser praised Brown's natural ability to rally the troops and facilitate early bonding among new and returning players.

Jayson Tatum Progresses in Achilles Recovery, Targets Home Game Return This Season

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Boston Celtics superstar Jayson Tatum is making strides in his recovery from a ruptured right Achilles tendon, sustained nearly five months ago in the NBA playoffs. Despite facing the mental challenge of his teammates beginning practice for the 2025-26 campaign without him, Tatum recently completed a light non-contact workout on the practice court, sharing video of his progress. Houston Rockets superstar Kevin Durant expressed surprise at Tatum's swift return to the court, tweeting "Insane. Let’s get it JT". Teammate Sam Hauser confirmed Tatum is "doing everything he can to get back," being "the first one in and last one out," and hopes for his return "this season." Tatum himself indicated his return would be for a "home game," regardless of the opponent, stating, "I don't care who we play." The Celtics plan to lean on Jaylen Brown and other players during his absence.