NBA Basketball 3 Days

Last updated: July 9, 2026, 5:32 PM ET

Player Transactions and Contract News

The NBA transaction wire continued to buzz as the offseason progressed. The Los Angeles Lakers agreed to a one-year deal with veteran center Kevon Looney while still actively pursuing Jonathan Kuminga. Meanwhile, Rui Hachimura with the Clippers, a two-year agreement worth $28 million. In a significant move, restricted free agent Quinten Post with the Grizzlies for three years and $30 million, pending a decision from the Warriors. The Pistons traded Caris LeVert and two second-round picks to the Bucks for Taurean Prince and Gary Harris completed a trade. The Wizards are bringing back Khris Middleton on a three-year, $17.6 million contract via a sign-and-trade deal.

Star Player Movements and Extensions

Major contract news also broke for some of the league's biggest stars. Donovan Mitchell agreed to an extension with the Cavaliers, a four-year, $273 million maximum deal that includes a player option for the 2030-31 season. Nikola Jokic reaffirmed his commitment to the Nuggets long term but until next summer. Jayson Tatum reflected on the "abrupt ending" of his partnership with Jaylen Brown, acknowledging the pair's accomplishments together. DeMar DeRozan became a free agent after being waived by the Kings, with multiple contenders expected to show interest.

Offseason Rumors and Front Office Changes

The rumor mill churned with updates on top free agents, with the Lakers and Bucks still active after significant moves. The trade for Kawhi Leonard between the Clippers and Raptors remains on hold pending the league's investigation into potential salary cap circumvention. Kawhi Leonard also reportedly hired a new agent to handle his next contract talks. In front office news, former ESPN senior NBA writer Tim Bontemps has been hired for a role with the Atlanta Hawks joined the Hawks. Former Hawks GM Landry Fields was appointed head of men's basketball for Project B, a new global league named to lead.

Player News and Legal Matters

Jalen Brunson, the Finals MVP, underwent surgery on his left wrist and is expected to return to basketball activities later this summer. His Game 1 jersey from the 2026 NBA Finals sold for over $1 million at Sotheby's. Terry Rozier's bid to loosen bail conditions was denied by a judge was denied a request. Former NBA star Lamar Odom is expected to plead no-contest to reduce a DUI charge to reckless driving. Tim Hardaway Jr. was formally introduced by the Miami Heat and will wear No. 10, a number previously worn by his father.

League Analysis and Future Outlook

Kyle Lowry retired as a Raptor after a 20-season career, signing a one-day contract with Toronto where he won a championship retired from the NBA. The Eastern Conference hierarchy has been reshuffled amid significant offseason activity, suggesting that teams standing still may fall behind. Executives reacted to the Jaylen Brown trade, with some noting his perceived value was lower than anticipated. Rookie Darryn Peterson's summer league performance and chemistry with Keyonte George offer a glimpse into the Jazz's potential backcourt future. The NBA descends on Las Vegas, with a list of 30 players to watch during the summer league. The league is also grappling with internal disputes, as Mark Cuban alleges Mavericks owner Patrick Dumont has engaged in "adversarial business practices" amid a proposed team relocation. The Suns and Mercury CEO Josh Bartelstein is finalizing an extension with owner Mat Ishbia finalizing an extension. The marriage between LeBron James and the Lakers, once a partnership of convenience, has concluded with a similar pragmatism. The Bucks' general manager Jon Horst called the decision to trade Giannis Antetokounmpo a "very difficult decision". The first week of NBA free agency has generated strong opinions, with analysis judging the five biggest overreactions to the early moves.