NBA Basketball 3 Days

Last updated: July 10, 2026, 2:30 PM ET

LeBron's Free Agency and Star Musings

LeBron James continues to weigh his options as free agency enters its second week, with teams resorting to creative pitches like voice memos to sway the superstar. While the Los Angeles Lakers are still in the mix, having previously matched his star power with team dysfunction, James has acknowledged the allure of a late-career superteam, even considering a partnership with longtime rival Stephen Curry. Six teams are reportedly in contention, each presenting a unique financial and intangible package for James to consider. Meanwhile, unresolved offseason storylines persist, including Jalen Duren's contract, the potential Kawhi Leonard trade, and ultimately, James' next destination.

Player Transactions and Team Restructuring

The NBA offseason has seen significant player movement and team adjustments. Donovan Mitchell has agreed to a four-year, $273 million maximum extension with the Cavaliers, including a player option for the 2030-31 season. In the Eastern Conference, the Milwaukee Bucks are reportedly acquiring Taurean Prince and Gary Harris from the Pistons in exchange for Caris LeVert and two second-round picks. The Washington Wizards are bringing back veteran Khris Middleton on a three-year, $17.6 million contract via a sign-and-trade deal. The Boston Celtics are facing the departure of Jaylen Brown, with Jayson Tatum reflecting on their era together as a "tough" but proud experience. The Heat have formally introduced Tim Hardaway Jr., who will wear his father's former No. 10 jersey.

Offseason Rumors and League Investigations

Several significant offseason storylines remain in flux. The proposed trade sending Kawhi Leonard to the Clippers from the Raptors is currently on hold pending an NBA investigation into potential salary cap circumvention by the Clippers. Bucks general manager Jon Horst described the decision to trade Giannis Antetokounmpo as "very difficult". In Dallas, Mavericks owner Mark Cuban has accused governor Patrick Dumont of engaging in "adversarial business practices" concerning a potential team relocation. The Lakers are still pursuing Jonathan Kuminga and have also agreed to a one-year deal with Kevon Looney. Nikola Jokic has indicated he will wait until next summer to sign an extension with the Nuggets, though he desires to stay long term.

Player Milestones and Summer League Action

In the realm of player achievements and emerging talent, a jersey worn by Jalen Brunson during Game 1 of the 2026 NBA Finals sold for over $1 million at auction, setting a record for Brunson memorabilia. Brunson himself underwent wrist surgery and is expected to return to basketball activities later this summer. Kyle Lowry has retired from the NBA after 20 seasons, signing a one-day contract with the Toronto Raptors. The Las Vegas summer league is providing a glimpse of future talent, with rookies like Darryn Peterson and prospects like AJ Dybantsa facing off. Peterson's early chemistry with Keyonte George is already giving the Utah Jazz a look at their backcourt of the future. A list of 30 players, including rookies and veterans, to watch at the summer league has been compiled.

League Personnel and Legal Matters

The NBA landscape is also seeing shifts in front office personnel and legal proceedings involving former players. Former ESPN senior NBA writer Tim Bontemps has joined the Atlanta Hawks in a front office role. Landry Fields, former general manager for the Atlanta Hawks, will lead the men's basketball operations for Project B, a new global basketball league. In legal news, U.S. District Judge LaShann DeArcy Hall denied a request to modify bail conditions for Terry Rozier, preventing him from practicing or playing with potential witnesses. Former NBA star Lamar Odom is expected to enter a plea deal to reduce a DUI charge to reckless driving. Charles Barkley faces long odds, 500-1, to win a celebrity golf tournament in Lake Tahoe.