NBA Basketball 24-Hour Briefing
×Last updated: October 6, 2026, 2:07 PM ET
NBA Basketball
Sixers Training Camp
LeBron James, Joel Embiid, and Tyrese Maxey sat out the 76ers' preseason opener against the Knicks, but James has already made a significant imprint behind the scenes. Reports from his first Sixers training camp detail private team dinners, group chats, and discussions about "the vision" for the season. Meanwhile, 76ers center Hukporti exited early with a right leg injury just five minutes into that same preseason opener.
Knicks & Towns Contract Saga
Karl-Anthony Towns says the chances "don't look good" for a new extension before the regular season, with the Knicks and Towns far apart in negotiations. Towns himself confirmed the uncertain timeline, casting doubt on a deal being reached soon.
Injury Report
The Hornets will be without guard Coby White for the rest of the preseason after he suffered a left calf strain during training camp. Spurs free-agent addition Tobias Harris is also sidelined with a calf strain and will miss the preseason. Clippers wing Max Strus suffered a partial tear of the plantar fascia in his right foot and will be reevaluated in four weeks.
Pistons & Duren
Jalen Duren expressed relief at returning to the Pistons, calling Detroit "home" despite a prolonged and occasionally contentious negotiation process.
NBA Rule & Tech Changes
The NBA is experimenting with new lottery rules aimed at curbing tanking, which could significantly impact this season's competitive landscape. Additionally, the league is testing smart basketballs and wrist wearables for referees during the preseason.
Fantasy Basketball
ESPN's Eric Karabell released his "Do not draft" list, advising managers to fade players like Kawhi Leonard and LaMelo Ball at their current average draft positions.