NBA Basketball 3 Days

Last updated: July 11, 2026, 5:30 PM ET

NBA Offseason Speculation Heats Up

The NBA offseason continues to simmer with significant player movement and contract discussions dominating headlines. Victor Wembanyama is set to sign a five-year, $252 million maximum rookie-scale contract extension with the San Antonio Spurs, making it the third-largest rookie extension in league history. Meanwhile, the future of LeBron James remains a central talking point, with multiple teams making pitches, including the San Antonio Spurs making a humorous attempt to recruit him. Teams are reportedly courting James via voice memos as his free agency decision extends into its second week. Andre Iguodala suggested that LeBron's consideration of the Golden State Warriors is a testament to Stephen Curry's impact, and Curry himself acknowledged the appeal of teaming up with James late in their careers. The marriage between LeBron and the Lakers, described as a "marriage of convenience," is now over, with both parties moving on.

The NBPA is urging fixes to the league's "second apron," arguing it forces teams into decisions that are "not basketball decisions" and prioritize cost control over player and fan benefit. The trade involving Kawhi Leonard between the Clippers and Raptors is currently on hold pending an NBA probe into potential salary cap circumvention. Giannis Antetokounmpo's potential trade from the Milwaukee Bucks was described as a "very difficult decision" by GM Jon Horst. Jayson Tatum reflected on the end of his partnership with Jaylen Brown, calling it an "abrupt ending" but expressing pride in their shared era.

Player Movement and New Beginnings

Ja Morant is looking to "start fresh" with the Portland Trail Blazers after his offseason trade from the Grizzlies, aiming to shed his "bad guy" image. Trae Young expressed excitement about his long-term future with the new-look Washington Wizards after re-signing. The Wizards are also bringing back Khris Middleton on a three-year, $17.6 million contract via a sign-and-trade deal. Tim Hardaway Jr. was formally introduced by the Miami Heat, receiving his father's former No. 10 jersey.

The Mavericks completed a six-team trade by signing prospect Tarik Biberovic, a deal that also brings Santi Aldama and Marcus Sasser to Dallas. Mark Cuban has accused Mavericks governor Patrick Dumont of engaging in "adversarial business practices" in a proposed relocation of the club.

Summer League Standouts and Collectibles

The Las Vegas summer league is providing a glimpse of future talent. Bulls rookie Caleb Wilson had a strong debut, scoring 35 points, the second-most in a Las Vegas debut since 2004. Top 2026 draft prospects AJ Dybantsa and Darryn Peterson faced off, with their performances drawing attention. Rookie Darryn Peterson and fourth-year guard Keyonte George are showing promising chemistry for the Utah Jazz's backcourt of the future. The summer league is also a platform to watch 30 key rookies and veteran players.

On the collectibles front, a 2024 1-of-1 Victor Wembanyama Panini Revolution vertical green Kaboom! card sold for $1,443,133. A jersey worn by Jalen Brunson during Game 1 of the 2026 NBA Finals fetched over $1 million at Sotheby's, setting a record for Brunson collectibles.

Other NBA News

Bam Adebayo and Tyler Herro were involved in a physical altercation in Las Vegas, with Adebayo striking Herro. Terry Rozier's request to modify his bail conditions was denied by a judge. Former ESPN senior NBA writer Tim Bontemps has joined the Atlanta Hawks in a front office role. Former Hawks GM Landry Fields will lead men's basketball for Project B, a new global basketball league. Charles Barkley has the longest odds, 500-1, to win the celebrity golf tournament in Lake Tahoe.