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NBA News

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

Monday, September 29, 2025

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.

Nikola Jokić Discusses His Future During NBA Media Days

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Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokić was among the prominent NBA players who addressed their futures during the recent NBA media days. His comments were part of a broader discussion involving other league stars like LeBron James and Kevin Durant, all of whom used the platform to speak on their career trajectories and upcoming seasons. While specific details of his statements were not provided, his participation in these discussions indicates his ongoing importance and the public's interest in his long-term plans with the Denver Nuggets.

Kevin Durant Addresses Future, Praises Jayson Tatum's Swift Achilles Recovery

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Houston Rockets superstar Kevin Durant, a premier example of a healthy return from an Achilles injury, expressed surprise and encouragement regarding Jayson Tatum's rapid recovery. Durant tweeted "Insane. Let’s get it JT" after Tatum's first light non-contact workout on the practice court, highlighting the impressive speed of Tatum's progress nearly five months post-injury. Additionally, during NBA media days, Kevin Durant addressed his own future, a key topic among notable players. This dual focus on his own career path and his observation of another star's recovery underscores his ongoing relevance in the league.

LeBron James Addresses His Future During NBA Media Days

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Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James was a key figure at NBA media days, where he addressed his future. His statements were part of a significant trend among top players, including Kevin Durant and Nikola Jokić, who used the media day platform to discuss their career paths. While the specifics of James's comments were not detailed, his participation in these discussions underscores the ongoing interest in his plans and commitment to the Los Angeles Lakers, as he continues to be a central figure in the league.

Trae Young Addresses Lack of Hawks Extension Amid Focus on Team's Postseason Hopes

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Atlanta Hawks star Trae Young, eligible for a four-year, $229 million extension, admitted he's "close" to disappointment regarding the lack of a new deal as training camp begins. Speaking at media day on Monday, Young, who has two years left on his current five-year, $215 million contract (signed before 2022-23) with a player option for next season, insisted his primary focus is on the team's upcoming season and getting the Hawks back to the postseason. He averaged 24.2 points and a league-high 11.6 assists last season, earning his fourth All-Star nod, despite the Hawks finishing 40-42 and missing the playoffs for the second consecutive year. Young expressed excitement about the team's offseason additions, including Kristaps Porzingis, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, and Luke Kennard, stating, "I'm more happy about the team that we got going into this season."

Defiant Kawhi Leonard Welcomes NBA Investigation into 'No-Show' Endorsement Allegations

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Kawhi Leonard addressed the ongoing allegations surrounding his 'no-show' endorsement deal with Aspiration, stating defiantly, 'None of us did no wrongdoing... We invite the investigation.' The Los Angeles Clippers star dismissed 'conspiracies or clickbait journalism,' asserting he understood his full contract obligations. The controversy centers on a 2021 four-year, $28 million endorsement deal with Aspiration, plus $20 million in company stock, amidst accusations it was a scheme to funnel extra money, especially since Aspiration is now bankrupt and its CEO pled guilty to $248 million in fraud. Leonard refuted claims he did nothing for the company, calling the allegations 'old' and inaccurate, though he didn't detail his services. Clippers president Lawrence Frank supported Leonard, expressing confidence in their innocence and welcoming the NBA's investigation. Both Leonard and Frank affirmed the situation would not distract the team from the upcoming season.

Stephen Curry Confident in Warriors' Championship Pursuit, Praises Butler's Impact

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Stephen Curry, along with Draymond Green and Jimmy Butler, expressed confidence at the Warriors' media day that a "September distraction" won't derail their ultimate goals for the season. Curry noted the team's strong finish last season, which was "fun for all of us," and their belief in a championship run if his hamstring held up. He praised Jimmy Butler's impact, stating that Butler's clarity and understanding of the team's dynamics, especially after his previous season's end, will help him contribute at a high level. Curry is looking forward to building on the success from Butler's partial season and leveraging a full training camp to contend for another NBA championship.

Draymond Green Targets 10th All-Defensive Selection as Primary Motivation for 14th NBA Season

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Golden State Warriors veteran Draymond Green, entering his 14th NBA season, has openly shared his main motivation for the upcoming 2025-26 campaign: earning his 10th NBA All-Defensive Team selection. The anchor of the Warriors' defense for the past 13 seasons, Green expressed at Warriors Media Day that achieving this milestone "would mean the world" to him. He aims to join an "amazing list" of "first-ballot Hall of Famers" like Kobe Bryant and Tim Duncan, stating it "would be a dream come true" to put his name next to theirs. Green's extensive defensive accolades include being the 2017 NBA Defensive Player of the Year, a nine-time NBA All-Defensive selection (five First Team, four Second Team), and a finalist for the 2025 DPOY award. He confirmed this personal quest is "definitely a motivating factor" for him this year, alongside the team's goal to hoist another Larry O’Brien Championship Trophy.

Jimmy Butler Makes Warriors Training Camp Debut, Addresses Kuminga's Contract Standoff

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Six-time All-Star Jimmy Butler officially made his Golden State Warriors training camp debut, where he is projected to start at forward alongside Draymond Green. Media Day was largely overshadowed by the unresolved contract status of teammate Jonathan Kuminga, which Butler, along with other veterans, was compelled to address. Speaking hypothetically about Al Horford, whose signing is pending Kuminga's situation, Butler lauded him as an "elite defender" who "wins" and plays "basketball the right way." Regarding Kuminga's prolonged contract standoff, Butler expressed his detachment, stating, "I’m not into all that... I hope it gets resolved," signaling a clear desire for the situation to be settled so the team can finalize its roster.

Anthony Edwards Receives Michael Jordan's Advice, Aims for NBA Championship

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Minnesota Timberwolves' young star, Anthony Edwards, recently revealed that NBA legend Michael Jordan provided him with some valuable advice. Edwards is focused on utilizing this guidance as he looks to lead his team, the Timberwolves, to an NBA championship in the upcoming season.

Luka Dončić Embraces Leadership Role with LeBron James, Eyes Lakers Championship

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Luka Dončić, who joined the Los Angeles Lakers via a blockbuster trade by February 1st, has solidified his status as the new face of the franchise by signing a three-year, $165 million contract extension. Dončić is set to partner with LeBron James in pursuit of the Lakers' 18th championship, with James expressing excitement about the collaboration. Dončić emphasized the importance of their partnership, stating at Media Day, “Me and LeBron, I think we’re the leaders of this group. Us communicating, practicing some things on the floor, I think that will help us a lot.” Both players are optimistic about having an entire training camp to figure out how to play together effectively, aiming to build strong on-court chemistry for the upcoming season.

Giannis Antetokounmpo Reaffirms Commitment to Bucks, Believes in Title Contention

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Giannis Antetokounmpo addressed concerns about his future with the Milwaukee Bucks during media day, stating his belief in the current version of the team. He reaffirmed his commitment to playing for a title contender, indicating his focus remains on achieving championship success with the Bucks. His comments suggest a continued dedication to the franchise and its pursuit of an NBA title.

Al Horford Commits to Golden State Warriors, Set to Be Starting Center

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Veteran center Al Horford has committed to signing a multi-year contract with the Golden State Warriors, as reported by his agent Jason Glushon to ESPN’s Shams Charania on Sunday, September 28, 2025. Horford, who spent seven of the past nine years with Boston and won the 2024 title, will enter his 19th NBA season as the Warriors' starting center. His addition is expected to provide significant relief for Draymond Green and the team's young big men, including Trayce Jackson-Davis and Quinten Post, allowing Green to return to his preferred power forward position.

Jason Kidd Addresses Kyrie Irving's ACL Recovery Timeline Perception

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Dallas Mavericks coach Jason Kidd expressed frustration with the public perception that Kyrie Irving will return sooner than normal from his torn ACL. Kidd took umbrage with the idea, suggesting that the recovery process for such a significant injury should not be rushed. This statement comes as Irving faces a substantial recovery period, with Kidd emphasizing a realistic timeline for his return to the court.

De'Aaron Fox Expresses Doubt for Spurs' Season Opener Due to Hamstring Injury

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San Antonio Spurs point guard De'Aaron Fox voiced concerns on Monday at media day regarding his readiness for the team's upcoming season opener. Fox indicated that his potential availability for the October 22 game against Dallas is in doubt. This uncertainty stems from a right hamstring injury he is currently managing. The team and fans will be closely monitoring his recovery as the season start approaches, hoping for a swift return to the court for the key playmaker.

Cavaliers Swingman Max Strus Recovering from Foot Surgery, Expected to Miss Season Start

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Cleveland Cavaliers swingman Max Strus is recovering from offseason left foot surgery. He is likely to miss time when the regular season begins on October 22. Strus, a starter for the Cavaliers, is making strides in his recovery alongside All-Star point guard Darius Garland, who also underwent a similar procedure. His recovery timeline suggests he will not be available for the start of the regular season, impacting the team's early roster.

Cavaliers' All-Star Darius Garland Recovering from Foot Surgery, Expected to Miss Season Start

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Cleveland Cavaliers All-Star point guard Darius Garland is currently recovering from offseason left foot surgery. He is likely to miss time when the regular season commences on October 22. Garland, a key starter for the Cavaliers, is making strides in his recovery alongside teammate Max Strus, who also underwent a similar procedure. His absence will impact the team's initial lineup as they head into the new season.

Chris Paul Joins Ownership Group of NWSL's Angel City FC

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Los Angeles Clippers forward Chris Paul has been announced as one of four new minority investors in the NWSL's Angel City FC. The team confirmed the investment on Monday, marking Paul's expansion into sports ownership beyond basketball. This move highlights Paul's growing business portfolio and his interest in supporting women's professional sports, adding a prominent NBA figure to the NWSL club's ownership group.

Bradley Beal to Be Limited Participant at Start of Clippers Training Camp Due to Knee

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Clippers president of basketball operations Lawrence Frank announced Monday that Bradley Beal will be a limited participant to start training camp due to a knee issue. This update, reported by Tomer Azarly of ClutchPoints.com, indicates that Beal's participation will be restricted as the team begins its preparations for the upcoming season. The team will likely manage his workload carefully as he works back to full health.

Victor Wembanyama Grows Taller and Bulks Up During Offseason

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San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama, at 21 years old, reportedly grew an additional inch over the summer, further adding to his already imposing stature. Beyond his increased height, Wembanyama also dedicated his offseason to bulking up, aiming to add strength and physicality to his game. This physical development is expected to make the young phenom an even more formidable presence on the court, a terrifying prospect for the rest of the NBA.