NBA Basketball 3d Briefing
×Last updated: March 13, 2026, 2:47 AM ET
Injury Updates Shake Playoff Picture
The San Antonio Spurs suffered a 136-131 loss to the Denver Nuggets without star center Victor Wembanyama, who sat out due to right ankle soreness espn.com. Meanwhile, the Golden State Warriors ruled out Stephen Curry for another 10 days with a persistent right knee issue espn.com, dealing a blow to their postseason aspirations. The Los Angeles Lakers continued to manage their star's health as LeBron James remained sidelined for a third consecutive game against the Timberwolves due to left foot arthritis and a right hip contusion espn.com.
Eastern Conference Contenders Face Challenges
The New York Knicks, currently third in the Eastern Conference at 42-25, must solve several issues to make a deep playoff run, particularly getting Julius Randle and Jalen Brunson back on track espn.com. The Boston Celtics faced their own drama when Jaylen Brown was ejected after receiving back-to-back technical fouls in a matchup against the Spurs espn.com. Philadelphia 76ers fans received troubling news as Tyrese Maxey was diagnosed with a pinkie tendon injury and will be reevaluated in approximately three weeks espn.com.
Western Conference Battle Intensifies
The Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs continue to dominate Western Conference power rankings as the playoffs near espn.com. However, the Lakers face mounting distractions beyond injuries, with star Luka Doncic reportedly in a custody battle over his two daughters following his separation from fiancée Anamaria Goltes espn.com. Doncic also drew a $50,000 fine for directing an inappropriate "money" gesture toward a game official during Sunday's win over the Knicks espn.com.
Draft and Season Structure Debates
As March Madness approaches, analysts are updating their 2026 NBA mock drafts, tracking which prospects are rising and falling in the rankings espn.com. Meanwhile, Golden State coach Steve Kerr renewed his call for the league to shorten its 82-game schedule, arguing that fewer games would improve player health and the quality of play espn.com. The "silly season" has teams evaluating lesser-known players who could provide valuable contributions in the final stretch espn.com.
Off-Court Developments
Former NBA champion Quinn Cook revealed he has lost two international basketball jobs this year due to global political issues, highlighting the challenges American players face overseas espn.com. In memorabilia news, Scottie Pippen's personal collection, including his famed "Flu Game" jersey, sold for over $6.2 million at Sotheby's auction espn.com. The league also celebrated historical achievements, with ESPN examining Wilt Chamberlain's 100-point game and other legendary single-game performances across American professional sports espn.com.