NBA Basketball 8-Hour Briefing

Last updated: October 19, 2026, 4:31 PM ET

Season Previews

Expert picks are in for the new NBA season, with debate centering on whether the Spurs or Thunder will emerge from the West and whether the Knicks are ready to reach the Finals. ESPN has also ranked all 30 teams ahead of opening night, laying out what fans need to know about each roster.

Injury Updates

Kings guard Ben Simmons has suffered a torn Achilles tendon and will undergo surgery, ending his season before it begins. No. 1 pick AJ Dybantsa left the Wizards' preseason finale with an ankle issue and will have it checked. Warriors star Stephen Curry tweaked his right ankle in practice, but coach Steve Kerr said he is fine.

Roster Moves

The Knicks are waiving Bruce Brown while keeping James Wiseman on the roster ahead of the season opener. The Thunder agreed to a five-year, $139M extension with All-Defensive guard Cason Wallace, and the Suns signed center Oso Ighodaro to a three-year, $29M extension.

Front Office Feud

Kevin Durant fired back at Suns owner Mat Ishbia on social media after Ishbia framed Phoenix's tenure in a way Durant rejected.

Coming Up

The season's expert predictions for the East, West and champion are laid out here, ahead of opening night.