NBA Basketball 24-Hour Briefing
×Last updated: October 20, 2026, 4:40 AM ET
Season Preview
The 2026-27 NBA season is nearly here, and ESPN has ranked all 30 teams with predictions for each club. The league's expert panel has also weighed in on the East and West races, debating whether the Spurs or Thunder take the West and whether the Knicks are headed for the Finals.
Contract Extensions
The Oklahoma City Thunder locked up guard Cason Wallace to a five-year, $139 million extension, rewarding the All-Defensive selection. In Minnesota, the Timberwolves agreed to a one-year, $40 million deal with Jaden McDaniels, while the Hornets signed forward Brandon Miller to a five-year, $209 million rookie extension. The Suns also committed $29 million over three years to center Oso Ighodaro.
Injury Report
Kings guard Ben Simmons has torn his Achilles tendon and will undergo surgery, ending his season before it begins. In Golden State, Warriors coach Steve Kerr said superstar Stephen Curry is "fine" after tweaking his right ankle in practice, and the team expects him to be available for the opener.
Roster Cuts
Several teams trimmed their rosters ahead of opening night. The Milwaukee Bucks waived guard Kevin Porter Jr., the Los Angeles Lakers released Dalton Knecht, a 2024 first-round pick, and the Dallas Mavericks cut longtime center Dwight Powell after 12 years with the franchise. The Knicks are waiving Bruce Brown while keeping James Wiseman, and the Grizzlies are reportedly waiving Walter Clayton Jr., a 2025 No. 18 pick.
Off the Court
Kevin Durant fired back at Suns owner Mat Ishbia on social media after Ishbia framed Phoenix's tenure in a way Durant disputed.
Coming Up
The Warriors open their season against the Lakers on Wednesday night, with Curry expected to play.