NBA Basketball 24-Hour Briefing
×Last updated: October 16, 2026, 4:32 AM ET
Spurs and Title Expectations
The San Antonio Spurs enter the new season as the consensus favorites in an annual survey of NBA general managers, with Victor Wembanyama cited as the centerpiece of that projection. Having reached the Finals on a surprise run last spring, the organization knows the road back will be far harder, as the Spurs face a tough return trip to the championship round. Coach Mitch Johnson has begun experimenting, deploying a three-guard lineup of De'Aaron Fox, Harrison Barnes-era reserves and Stephon Castle in a preseason win.
Sixers and Celtics
Philadelphia guard Tyrese Maxey said Thursday that a healthy Joel Embiid "changes everything" for the 76ers, a sentiment that will define their outlook this season. In Boston, the Celtics moved to lock up depth, agreeing to a two-year, $44.2 million extension for guard Payton Pritchard.
Warriors and Lakers
Golden State received a blow as Kristaps Porzingis will remain out indefinitely, though he will stay with the team during his private recovery. In Los Angeles, Walker Kessler made a strong first impression in his preseason debut, as J.J. Redick emphasized the need to play with a relentless edge.
Fantasy and League Notes
Fantasy managers received fresh guidance as the crew held its final mock draft before tipoff, with Cooper Flagg and Derrick White going early. Jim McCormick also highlighted late-round picks with the upside to become valuable contributors.
League Integrity
A Las Vegas bettor pleaded guilty to charges tied to NBA and NCAA fixing schemes, closing one of three federal gambling cases.
Season Previews
ESPN's rankings of the teams most desperate to win put pressure on several franchises to contend immediately, while a review of key takeaways from the preseason offers a snapshot of all 30 clubs. Observers will also be watching ten names across coaching, front offices and the court who could shape the year ahead. Finally, former NBA forward Amar'e Stoudemire graduated from a law enforcement academy and will train as an officer with the Miami-Dade Schools Police Department.