NBA Basketball 24-Hour Briefing
×Last updated: October 7, 2026, 2:05 PM ET
Preseason Injuries
The Knicks' hopes of locking up Karl-Anthony Towns to an extension before the regular season are fading, as Towns himself admitted the chances don't look good for a deal. Charlotte will be shorthanded after the Hornets shut down guard Coby White for the rest of the preseason following a left calf strain. The Clippers' wing depth took a hit as Max Strus will be reevaluated in four weeks after a partial plantar fascia tear. Philadelphia's frontcourt is thinner after backup center Ariel Hukporti suffered a torn Achilles, confirmed by MRI on Tuesday.
League & Offseason News
The NBA's experimental push continues, with the league testing smart basketballs and wrist wearables for officials during the preseason. The Euro League has rejected an NBA offer to merge into a proposed NBA Europe, opting instead to pursue its own expansion plans. New lottery rules aimed at curbing tanking could shift team behavior this season, with five key changes to monitor.
Team & Player Notes
Tyrese Haliburton is giving back to his alma mater, buying tickets for Iowa State students to attend the Pacers' preseason game there. Jalen Duren expressed relief at returning to Detroit, calling the Pistons "home" after a tense negotiation.
Season Outlook
ESPN's Basketball Power Index has projected all 30 teams for the 2026-27 season, with Finals favorites stacking at the top of the rankings. For fantasy managers, Eric Karabell's do-not-draft list highlights players like Kawhi Leonard and Lonzo Ball to avoid at their current ADP. If you missed the offseason, Jim McCormick breaks down all the key moves and draft tips ahead of the campaign.