NBA Basketball 8-Hour Briefing
×Last updated: October 5, 2026, 10:12 PM ET
NBA Preseason Updates
Several key players sat out espn.com as LeBron James, Joel Embiid, and Tyrese Maxey missed the 76ers' preseason opener against the Knicks due to rest and precaution. Meanwhile, the NBA tested espn.com smart basketballs and referee wrist wearables during preseason action, aiming to enhance data collection and officiating accuracy. In injury news, the Hornets shut down espn.com Coby White for the remainder of the preseason after he suffered a left calf strain in training camp, while Tobias Harris will miss espn.com the Spurs' preseason schedule due to a similar calf strain sustained during camp. On a positive note, Jalen Duren expressed espn.com relief at returning to the Pistons, calling Detroit "home" after a tense contract negotiation period. The Clippers announced Max Strus will be espn.com reevaluated in four weeks following a partial tear of the plantar fascia in his right foot. Lastly, fantasy analysts highlighted espn.com Eric Karabell's "Do not draft" list, warning against selecting players like Kawhi Leonard and LaMelo Ball at their current ADP due to injury risk and role uncertainty.