NBA Basketball 3 Days

Last updated: July 8, 2026, 11:30 PM ET

Eastern Conference Shake-ups and Star Signings

The Eastern Conference landscape is undergoing significant shifts. Donovan Mitchell has agreed to a four-year, $273 million maximum extension with the Cavaliers, which includes a player option for the 2030-31 season. In Philadelphia, the fallout from the Jaylen Brown trade is still being processed, with executives expressing surprise at the star's perceived lower value in the deal. Meanwhile, Kyle Lowry retired as a Raptor after signing a one-day contract, concluding a career that spanned 20 NBA seasons and included a championship in Toronto. The Washington Wizards are bringing back veteran Khris Middleton on a three-year, $17.6 million contract via a sign-and-trade deal. The Pistons are trading Caris LeVert and two second-round picks to the Bucks for Taurean Prince and Gary Harris.

Western Conference Moves and Player Decisions

The Western Conference is also seeing major player movements and significant decisions. Jayson Tatum reflected on the "abrupt ending" of his longtime partnership with Jaylen Brown, while also expressing pride in what they accomplished together reflected on the "abrupt ending". LeBron James' departure from the Lakers is being framed as a mutually convenient divorce between a struggling franchise and a global superstar. The Los Angeles Lakers continue to pursue Jonathan Kuminga and have also agreed to a one-year deal with veteran center Kevon Looney. Rui Hachimura has joined the Los Angeles Clippers, agreeing to a two-year, $28 million deal. Nikola Jokic reaffirmed his desire to stay with the Nuggets long term but is opting to wait until next summer to sign an extension. Restricted free agent Quinten Post is signing a three-year, $30 million contract offer sheet with the Grizzlies. Mark Cuban alleges that Mavericks governor Patrick Dumont has engaged in "adversarial business practices" in a proposed move of the club out of downtown.

Injury Updates and Legal Matters

Several notable players are dealing with injuries or legal issues. Knicks guard Jalen Brunson underwent surgery on his left wrist and is expected to return to basketball activities later this summer. Former NBA star Lamar Odom is expected to plead no-contest to reduce a DUI charge to reckless driving. U.S. District Judge LaShann DeArcy Hall denied a defense request to modify Terry Rozier's bail conditions, preventing him from practicing or playing with potential witnesses.

Free Agency Buzz and Front Office Changes

The free agency period continues to generate buzz. DeMar DeRozan is expected to draw interest from multiple contenders after the Kings waived the six-time All-Star, making him a free agent. Kawhi Leonard is expected to begin contract extension talks with the Toronto Raptors this week, with the two-time Finals MVP working with a new representative. Former ESPN senior NBA writer Tim Bontemps has been hired for a front office role with the Atlanta Hawks. The Suns and Mercury CEO Josh Bartelstein is finalizing a new extension with owner Mat Ishbia, solidifying their partnership in managing both franchises.

Summer League and Overreactions

The NBA is descending on Las Vegas for summer league, with attention focused on a list of 30 rookies and veteran players to watch. The first week of free agency has also led to significant takes, with an examination of the five biggest overreactions to the initial moves. In the Eastern Conference, it appears that standing still may no longer be a viable strategy amid the reshaped hierarchy. The Bucks general manager Jon Horst described the decision to trade Giannis Antetokounmpo as "very difficult". Tim Hardaway Jr. was formally introduced by the Heat, receiving a No. 10 jersey with "Jr." on the back for his return to Miami.