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11 articles summarized · Last updated: LATEST

Last updated: August 13, 2026, 3:13 AM ET

Retirement & Legacy

Russell Westbrook announced his retirement Wednesday after 18 seasons and seven teams. The 2017 MVP averaged 21.7 points. 1 rebounds and 8.0 assists, revolutionizing the triple-double with a record 199 career games. ESPN insiders examine his Hall of Fame legacy, including his polarizing style and statistical impact.

Front Office & Transactions

The Lakers are being sold to Josh Kushner and Bob Iger for a record $12.5 billion, multiple sources told ESPN. The deal shatters the previous NBA franchise sale record of $4 billion for the Phoenix Suns. Meanwhile, Warriors GM Mike Dunleavy expressed confidence that Stephen Curry will remain a Warrior for life, despite entering the final year of his contract. In a stunning international pursuit, Panathinaikos owner Dimitrios Giannakopoulos told ESPN he made a "serious" offer to buy out Nikola Jokic of his NBA contract for next season and plans to try again when the three-time MVP becomes a free agent in 2027.

NBA Cup & Legal News

Opening day of NBA Cup play on Oct. 30 will feature the Knicks-Sixers rematch and the Lakers visiting the Warriors, with LeBron James and Stephen Curry headlining the primetime slot. In legal developments, a federal judge revoked the bond of Deniro Laster, a co-defendant in the Terry Rozier gambling case, after Laster posted an Instagram story with a "rat" emoji in violation of court conditions.

Season Previews & Around the League

ESPN insiders identify under-the-radar title risks for the top 10 contenders, including concerns about Karl-Anthony Towns' contract and new roster chemistry in the West. In Houston, the Rockets aim to contend with Kevin Durant and Amen Thompson after an active offseason. The Mavericks enter a new era led by No. 1 overall pick Cooper Flagg, following front office and coaching changes. Finally, in Philadelphia, artist Chenlin Cai painted a LeBron James mural in Chinatown titled "The Legendary Partner for the City of Brotherly Love," inspired by a Dwyane Wade alley-oop assist.