NBA Basketball 3 Days

Last updated: May 21, 2026, 2:49 AM ET

NBA Playoffs: Knicks Stun Cavaliers in Game, Spurs Lose Fox for West Finals

The Eastern Conference finals erupted into chaos in Game 1 between the New York Knicks and Cleveland Cavaliers, as the Cavaliers blew a 22-point lead before falling 111-106 in a stunning collapse. Jalen Brunson relentlessly attacked James Harden in the fourth quarter, sparking a historic rally that overcame a 0.1% win probability according to advanced analytics. Despite holding timeouts late, coach Kenny Atkinson stood by his decision to preserve them, though the strategy unraveled as Cleveland's defense crumbled. The Knicks now hold a commanding 1-0 series lead as they prepare for Game, with OG Anunoby cleared for practice after a hamstring injury that originally threatened his availability. Meanwhile, in the West, the Oklahoma City Thunder dominated Game 1 without starting guard De'Aaron Fox, who was ruled out indefinitely with a right ankle sprain sustained in the regular season finale.

Coaching Carousel: Kidd Out in Dallas, Mosley In New Orleans

The NBA's coaching merry-go-round continued to spin violently this week, with Masai Ujiri taking full responsibility for the "very tough decision" to part ways with Jason Kidd after five tumultuous seasons in Dallas. The Mavericks mutually agreed to part ways with Kidd following a disappointing first-round playoff exit, marking the end of a tenure highlighted by internal conflicts and inconsistent playoff performances. In a related move, Jamahl Mosley was hired as head coach in New Orleans, bringing his 189-221 record and three playoff appearances from Orlando to a Pelicans franchise rebuilding around Victor Wembanyama. These moves underscore the league-wide pressure on coaches, as Timberwolves president Tim Connelly acknowledged his team needs to reach elite status after another first-round exit, signaling potential front-office shakeups across multiple markets.

Offseason Overhaul: Timberwolves Go All-In, Pistons Eye Core Retention

With their season ending in another first-round flameout, the Minnesota Timberwolves launched an aggressive offseason plan to join the NBA's elite, though specifics remain vague beyond general commitments to improvement. The organization faces critical decisions this summer, particularly with Karl-Anthony Towns potentially entering free agency, and must navigate a complex salary cap landscape. Across the league, the Detroit Pistons aim to retain core pieces as Trajan Langdon confirmed interest in re-signing Jalen Duren and Tobias Harris, though both players will test free agency unless substantial extensions are offered. The Pistons' season ended with a 125-94 Game 7 loss to Cleveland, but coach J.B. Bickerstaff refused to label it disappointing given the developmental progress of young players. Meanwhile, Oklahoma City and San Antonio control significant draft assets through 2032, positioning themselves as long-term contenders via strategic player development and smart draft execution.

International Basketball: Spurs Stage Paris Show, Boomers Star Switches Leagues

The NBA's global expansion continues to gain momentum, as the San Antonio Spurs confirmed their return to Paris for games against the New Orleans Pelicans on January 14 and, 2026, with additional action planned in Manchester, England. This international slate highlights the league's commitment to expanding its European footprint while showcasing young stars like Victor Wembanyama, whose warrior-monk training regimen helped forge an unstoppable force. On the Australian front, Joe Ingles confirmed his return to the NBL with Melbourne United on a two-year deal, calling it "incredibly special" despite previously playing alongside LeBron James in Los Angeles. Ingles joins a growing list of former NBA players finding new homes overseas, reflecting the global nature of basketball development and the financial realities facing aging veterans.

Player Movements and Business Side Changes

While the court action dominated headlines, Portland Trail Blazers underwent significant front-office restructuring with a large-scale layoff of business-side employees under new owner Tom Dundon's reorganization efforts. The moves signal a shift in organizational philosophy as the franchise rebuilds from the ground up, mirroring similar cost-cutting measures across struggling franchises. Meanwhile, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander received his second straight MVP award but admitted his performance didn't match the honor, giving teammates luxury watches and designer coats as celebration for his achievement. The Thunder star's gesture reflects the camaraderie within successful teams, even as his team advanced deeper into the playoffs than expected, exceeding preseason projections and establishing themselves as legitimate championship contenders.