AutoDraft Pro
Get the app

Player news from trusted outlets

NBA News

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

Wednesday, September 17, 2025

LeBron James Referenced in Jayson Tatum's Bold 'Top 5' Player Claim

AutoDraft Pro AI

On September 17, 2025, Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James was mentioned in a significant context during a discussion on 'Good Word with Goodwill'. Vincent Goodwill and Bomani Jones reacted to Boston Celtics player Jayson Tatum's bold "top 5 claim," where Tatum made comparisons to several NBA legends. LeBron James was specifically named alongside Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant as one of the iconic players Tatum referenced in his statement, serving as a benchmark for Tatum's assertion about his own standing in basketball history. The article did not provide any direct news or analysis concerning LeBron James's own performance or team activities.

Jayson Tatum's Bold 'Top 5' Statement Sparks Debate Among Analysts

AutoDraft Pro AI

On September 17, 2025, Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum made headlines with a bold statement regarding his "top 5 claim," which was a significant topic of discussion on 'Good Word with Goodwill'. Vincent Goodwill and Bomani Jones unpacked Tatum's comments, which involved comparisons to legendary NBA figures such as Michael Jordan, LeBron James, and Kobe Bryant. The podcast segment specifically addressed Tatum's "top 5 comments," indicating a strong assertion from the player about his place among the league's elite and historical greats.

Kawhi Leonard's Clippers Era Evaluated: Has His Tenure Benefited the Organization?

AutoDraft Pro AI

On September 17, 2025, Vincent Goodwill and Bomani Jones discussed Kawhi Leonard's impact on the Los Angeles Clippers during an episode of 'Good Word with Goodwill'. The conversation centered on evaluating Leonard's time in Los Angeles, specifically questioning if his tenure has benefited the Clippers organization despite the absence of championships. The podcast hosts reflected on the "Kawhi Leonard era" for the Clippers, delving into whether his presence has been positive for the team. They also debated if Leonard is a better player than Kevin Durant, highlighting a key point of discussion regarding his standing among the league's elite.

Jonathan Kuminga's Warriors Standoff Continues Amidst Restricted Free Agency Uncertainty

AutoDraft Pro AI

Jonathan Kuminga remains locked in a restricted free agency standoff with the Golden State Warriors, a situation extensively discussed by Tom Haberstroh and Dan Devine on 'The Big Number' podcast published September 17, 2025. The central question revolves around whether Kuminga has played his final game for the Warriors. The hosts weighed potential landing spots should he depart, identifying teams like the Chicago Bulls, Charlotte Hornets, Sacramento Kings, and Brooklyn Nets as possible fits. The discussion also touched upon specific aspects of his game, including points scored rolling after setting a screen, highlighting the ongoing contract dispute and its implications for both Kuminga and the Golden State Warriors.

Kevin Durant Open to 2028 Olympics at 39, Demands Impactful Role

AutoDraft Pro AI

Kevin Durant, recognized as the greatest US Olympic men's basketball player with four gold medals and 518 points, has expressed his willingness to play in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. At 39 years old, Durant stated his participation is contingent on him still being able to perform at a high level, saying, 'If I’m still me I’ll play I don’t want that veteran sit on the end of the bench and get your 5th.' He emphasized he doesn't want a 'pity' invitation but rather to make a significant impact. His potential involvement could bridge the gap to a new generation of American talent, including Anthony Edwards, Tyrese Haliburton, and Devin Booker. The 2028 Games are expected to be highly competitive, with strong international teams like France (featuring Victor Wembanyama), Serbia (with Nikola Jokic), and Germany posing formidable challenges.

Keon Johnson Waived by Brooklyn Nets

AutoDraft Pro AI

The Brooklyn Nets have waived guard Keon Johnson on Wednesday, according to a report from Brian Lewis of the New York Post. This move signifies a change in the team's roster composition. Further analysis on the implications of this decision can be found on RotoWire.com. The exact reasons for the waiver and Johnson's future plans are not detailed in the provided information, but the transaction was officially reported on September 17, 2025.

Landry Shamet Joins Knicks, Facing Roster Decisions Amidst Trade Speculation

AutoDraft Pro AI

Landry Shamet has been signed by the New York Knicks on a non-guaranteed contract, adding to the team's roster considerations. For the Knicks to retain both Shamet and fellow signee Malcolm Brogdon, a trade involving a player on a standard NBA contract is necessary to comply with the second apron salary cap. Options include trading Pacôme Dadiet or Miles McBride to create adequate space, or moving Tyler Kolek, which would leave the Knicks with minimal flexibility under the second apron. SNY NBA Insider Ian Begley suggests the team will likely wait until after training camp and preseason to finalize any roster moves, but believes both Brogdon and Shamet will ultimately be part of the Knicks' regular season squad as they pursue a championship.

Malcolm Brogdon and Landry Shamet: Knicks Weigh Trade Decisions for Veteran Duo

AutoDraft Pro AI

The New York Knicks have signed Malcolm Brogdon and Landry Shamet to non-guaranteed contracts, creating a roster puzzle ahead of training camp. To keep both veterans on the regular season roster, the Knicks must trade a player on a traditional NBA deal to stay under the second apron. Trading players like Pacôme Dadiet or Miles McBride would provide sufficient cap space, while trading Tyler Kolek would leave the Knicks just $44,000 under the second apron, limiting future roster moves. Insider Ian Begley anticipates the Knicks will let training camp and preseason play out before making a move, but expects both Brogdon and Shamet to be on the roster given the team's win-now mentality and potential playoff aspirations.

Draymond Green Offers Insight on Kuminga's Contract Standoff, Emphasizes Mentorship Role

AutoDraft Pro AI

Golden State Warriors star Draymond Green recently shared his perspective on teammate Jonathan Kuminga's ongoing restricted free-agent negotiations. On September 16, 2025, Green posted on Threads, stating that "Negotiations are rarely easy, but they usually get done in the end," reflecting on the complex situation. As a veteran, Green has mentored Kuminga since his 2021 draft, taking him "under his wing." Earlier in the offseason, in early July, Green had voiced criticism regarding the NBA's new CBA rules and their impact on the free-agent market, cautioning players against mismanaging their careers. However, he clarified that these comments were not solely directed at Kuminga, asserting that Kuminga "will be great and make a bunch of money." Green's continued support underscores his desire for the best outcome for his mentee.

Quinten Post Intensifies Offseason Training, Targets Defensive and Playmaking Growth for Warriors

AutoDraft Pro AI

Golden State Warriors center Quinten Post is diligently preparing for his second NBA season, focusing on significant game improvements after recovering from an ankle injury that sidelined him for Summer League. Post has been working out five days a week at Chase Center, prioritizing enhanced strength and agility to become a better defender, specifically aiming to guard without fouling. A sharpshooting big who hit a team-high 40.8 percent from deep in 42 games (14 starts) during his rookie year, Post is also expanding his offensive versatility. He is actively working on short-roll passing and finishing against smaller defenders, while continuing to develop his unique shooting ability. Post is expected to compete with third-year big Trayce Jackson-Davis for the backup center role, particularly if the Warriors sign veteran Al Horford, but remains highly motivated regardless of team dynamics.

Payton Pritchard Eyes Expanded Role and Starting Opportunity with Celtics

AutoDraft Pro AI

Payton Pritchard is poised for a potentially larger role with the Boston Celtics in the 2025-26 season, with discussions centering on whether he will step into a starting guard position. Pritchard himself expressed a desire to play "all 48 minutes" but remains committed to whatever role Head Coach Joe Mazzulla assigns, emphasizing team success. His valuable contributions last season, including winning the Sixth Man of the Year award, were instrumental in the Celtics' championship run. Analysts suggest Pritchard deserves a starting opportunity due to his championship pedigree and proven ability to elevate his game when given more responsibility. The panel's wish list for Pritchard includes improved defense against elite guards, continued strong rebounding, limited turnovers despite a potential usage spike, and infectious energy. Some foresee him potentially thriving as a starting point guard, capable of making an All-Star case alongside Derrick White, especially given the team's need to compensate for departures and potential talent drain.

Tuesday, September 16, 2025

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver Pledges Thorough Investigation into Kawhi Leonard's Endorsement Deal

AutoDraft Pro AI

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver confirmed an ongoing league investigation into Kawhi Leonard's $48 million endorsement deal with now-bankrupt Clippers sponsor Aspiration. The deal, which included $28 million and an additional $20 million in stock, is being scrutinized as a potential "no-show" arrangement, with no evident work performed by Leonard. Silver stated the league will "get to the bottom of it" to determine if it constitutes salary cap circumvention. Clippers owner Steve Ballmer welcomed the investigation, expressing confidence the team will be cleared and denying any wrongdoing, emphasizing the independence of the team's and player's deals. The controversy also involves Ballmer's and minority owner Dennis Wong's investments in Aspiration amidst its financial struggles, including a $2 million investment by Wong days before Leonard received a late payment. The investigation is anticipated to take several months.

Victor Wembanyama Makes Intergalactic Debut as 'Futurama' Basketball Alien

AutoDraft Pro AI

San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama recently made a unique appearance in the animated series 'Futurama', as reported on September 16, 2025. Wembanyama was featured as a basketball-playing alien character, with his animated persona dubbed 'Wem-ben-yum-yum'. During his cameo, 'Wem-ben-yum-yum' engaged in a conversation with the iconic robot character Bender, where his notable height was a specific topic of discussion. This distinctive role in 'Futurama' underscores Wembanyama's growing cultural presence and the recognition of his unique physical attributes beyond the NBA court.

Tosan Evbuomwan Joins Knicks on Two-Way Deal After Stint with Nets

AutoDraft Pro AI

Forward Tosan Evbuomwan, 24, has signed a two-way contract with the Knicks, a deal initially announced as an Exhibit 10. The 6-foot-8 forward has made 45 career appearances over the past two seasons, including eight starts. He last played with the Nets during the 2024-25 season, averaging 9.5 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 2.0 assists in 23.8 minutes off the bench. Undrafted out of Princeton in 2023, Evbuomwan's signing, reported on September 16, 2025, helps the Knicks fill one of their two-way roster spots as they prepare for the preseason.

Trey Jemison Signs Two-Way Contract, Adds Frontcourt Depth

AutoDraft Pro AI

Center Trey Jemison, 25, has signed a two-way contract with the Knicks, providing additional front-court depth. The 6-foot-11, 270-pound big man has appeared in 63 NBA games over the past two seasons with four organizations, including 22 games with the Lakers and 16 with the Pelicans a year ago, averaging 2.5 points and 2.8 rebounds in 10.3 minutes. His most extensive action came with the Memphis Grizzlies during the 2023-24 season, where he made 14 starts in 23 appearances, averaging 7.4 points, 5.8 rebounds, 1.2 blocks, and 1.2 assists in 24.9 minutes. Undrafted in 2003 out of UAB, Jemison previously played for the Suns' Summer League and Pelicans' G League affiliate. This signing, reported on September 16, 2025, helps fill one of the available two-way roster spots for the Knicks.

LeBron James' Future Beyond Lakers' Upcoming Season Extends to 2026 Free Agency

AutoDraft Pro AI

Intel suggests that LeBron James' basketball future with the Los Angeles Lakers could extend significantly beyond the upcoming season. As of September 16, 2025, reports indicate that James is poised to have multiple options available to him in the summer of 2026. This timeline aligns with the expiration of his current contract with the Los Angeles Lakers, suggesting a potentially long runway for his career and future decisions regarding his tenure in Los Angeles.

Ben Simmons Dispels Retirement Rumors, Remains Free Agent Seeking NBA Deal

AutoDraft Pro AI

Ben Simmons has publicly refuted recent media speculation about his potential retirement, confirming he is not stepping away from the NBA and remains actively seeking a contract for the upcoming season. The free agent guard previously engaged in discussions with both the New York Knicks and Boston Celtics, though no deals materialized; the Knicks subsequently signed Landry Shamet and Malcom Brogdon, indicating Simmons is no longer in their plans. While Simmons may be seeking more than the veteran minimum ($3.2 million), it's anticipated any offers will likely be for the minimum and potentially not fully guaranteed. His most recent NBA stint involved 18 games with the Los Angeles Clippers, where he played a bench role focusing on defense and offense initiation, averaging 2.9 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 3.1 assists in 16.4 minutes, though he was excluded from their playoff rotation. Teams may consider him for a similar bench role, with offers more likely to emerge once training camps begin or deeper into the season as needs arise.

Milwaukee Bucks' 2025-26 Hopes Heavily Reliant on Superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo

AutoDraft Pro AI

As the Milwaukee Bucks prepare for the 2025-26 NBA season, a preview published on September 16, 2025, highlights the team's profound dependence on their cornerstone player, Giannis Antetokounmpo. The article, titled 'The conversation: What have Bucks built around Giannis Antetokounmpo?', explicitly states that the team will be 'extremely reliant' on their superstar. This forward-looking assessment underscores Antetokounmpo's pivotal role as the central figure around whom the Milwaukee Bucks' strategy and success for the upcoming season are expected to revolve.

Jonathan Kuminga's Agent Reveals Key Condition for Warriors Contract Agreement

AutoDraft Pro AI

Jonathan Kuminga's agent, Aaron Turner, has stated that the young forward would agree to the Golden State Warriors' latest three-year, $75.2 million contract offer if the team option is converted to a player option. This change is viewed by Kuminga's camp as a crucial "show of goodwill," addressing what they call "years of confusion" over his role and demonstrating his willingness to suppress personal ambitions. If the player option is granted, Turner conveyed Kuminga would be "completely bought in" on the mission to help Steph Curry and Draymond Green secure a fifth championship, even accepting a likely bench role, fluctuating minutes, and a potentially tradable contract. The Warriors have also offered a three-year, $54 million fully guaranteed deal without a team option, but have yet to concede on the player option for the larger proposal.

Stephen Curry Lands in Top 150 of New 2025-26 Fantasy Basketball Rankings

AutoDraft Pro AI

Stephen Curry, the star guard for the Golden State Warriors, has been featured in the recently updated fantasy basketball rankings for the upcoming 2025-26 season. These comprehensive rankings, designed for both roto and category leagues, indicate Curry's placement within the top 150 players. The update, published on September 16, 2025, provides valuable insights for fantasy managers preparing for the new season, highlighting Curry's continued relevance in the fantasy landscape despite the specific ranking not being detailed beyond the top 150 inclusion.