NBA Basketball 24 Hours

Last updated: July 3, 2026, 2:30 AM ET

NBA FREE AGENCY SHIFTS LANDSCAPE DRAMATICALLY

The NBA free agency period has exploded into action, reshaping teams and title aspirations across the league. In a seismic move, LeBron James leaving Lakers, triggering immediate widespread reaction and prompting a swift overhaul of the Los Angeles franchise. Hours after James' departure, the Lakers were reportedly acquiring Walker Kessler from the Utah Jazz in a massive trade involving multiple unprotected first-round picks and swaps extending to 2033. This aggressive reset also saw the Lakers linked to Luka Doncic as they attempt to reconfigure their roster.

Meanwhile, the Philadelphia 76ers have emerged as major players, reportedly eyeing LeBron James after trading for Jaylen Brown. The blockbuster deal sent Brown to Philadelphia for Paul George and a package of draft picks, a move that has generated mixed reactions, with Brown himself stating he is both "excited and disappointed" about the trade Jaylen Brown's feelings. The 76ers' aggressiveness has shortened their championship odds to +700, indicating a significant belief in their revamped roster. The trade also involved Sandro Mamukelashvili and Quentin Grimes joining the Lakers.

Other significant free agency signings include Anfernee Simons agreeing to a two-year, $12.3 million deal with the 76ers, and restricted free agent Tari Eason inking a five-year, $81.5 million extension to stay with the Houston Rockets. Mitchell Robinson is set to join the Boston Celtics on a three-year, $47.4 million contract, fresh off an NBA title with the Knicks. Kelly Oubre Jr. is heading to the Indiana Pacers on a two-year, nearly $17 million deal, and Tobias Harris is moving to the San Antonio Spurs Harris joins Spurs. The Grizzlies are also involved in trade activity, sending Santi Aldama to the Mavericks for AJ Johnson and draft picks.

COACHING CHANGES AND PLAYER NUMBER SWAPS

Beyond player movement, coaching staffs are also seeing significant adjustments. Billy Donovan is set to become the lead assistant coach for the San Antonio Spurs under head coach Mitch Johnson Donovan to Spurs. In Toronto, coach Darko Rajakovic has received a multiyear contract extension, with the Raptors poised to feature Kawhi Leonard, who is returning to the team Kawhi's return.

Player number changes are also making news, with Ja Morant switching to No. 1 for his upcoming season, a number he has worn throughout his career. However, Tim Hardaway Sr. has stated that his son will not be allowed to wear the retired No. 10 for the Miami Heat, despite the number being retired in his honor Hardaway Sr. decision.

SUMMER LEAGUE TO TEST RULE CHANGES

The NBA will experiment with rule modifications during the upcoming summer league in July. The league will test the one free throw rule, previously seen in the G League, and will also incorporate embedded sensors in basketballs for data collection. These changes aim to evaluate potential impacts on game flow and player performance metrics.

OFFENSIVE PLAYER MALIK BEASLEY FACES GAMBLING CHARGES

Malik Beasley has pleaded not guilty to charges of altering his play in games during 2024 to benefit sports bettors and settle his own debts. The legal proceedings add another layer of complexity to the offseason narrative as the league navigates player conduct issues.