NBA Basketball 3 Days

Last updated: July 14, 2026, 11:30 PM ET

Summer League Buzz and Rookie Watch

The NBA summer league is providing a platform for emerging talent, with No. 1 pick AJ Dybantsa for the Washington Wizards. Dybantsa scored 23 and pulled down seven rebounds in a 104-85 win over an unnamed opponent, potentially marking his summer league finale. The Wizards after just two games despite his impressive debut. Meanwhile, Bulls rookie Caleb Wilson had a standout performance, dropping 35 points in his summer league debut, the second-highest total in a Las Vegas debut since 2004. NBA insiders are to top rookie performances, highlighting players who are after being overlooked in high school. In a concerning development, Jazz guard Trey Alexander was taken off the court on a stretcher Monday night after an apparent side injury during a summer league game against the Bulls.

Team Building and Offseason Moves

The Los Angeles Lakers are for the post-LeBron era, agreeing to a one-year, $3 million deal with free agent forward Ziaire Williams. Guard Austin Reaves, who recently signed a historic contract for an undrafted player, expressed optimism about the Lakers' current "pieces." Walker Kessler, recently acquired by the Lakers, stating he would "run through a brick wall" for the franchise. The Philadelphia 76ers are reportedly to attract LeBron James, with stars Tyrese Maxey, Joel Embiid, and Jaylen Brown having communicated with the future Hall of Famer, and Maxey reportedly leading the charge. In Minnesota, Timberwolves president Tim Connelly will elevate the team's ceiling, deeming the acquisition price worthwhile. The Golden State Warriors are to their coaching staff, agreeing to hire Frank Vogel as associate head coach under Steve Kerr.

Player News and League Dynamics

Miami Heat guard Tyler Herro stated his desire to move on from a recent physical altercation with former teammate Bam Adebayo in Las Vegas, focusing on his upcoming season in Milwaukee. The NBPA executive director, David Kelly, voiced concerns regarding the league's "second apron," arguing it forces teams into decisions that are detrimental to players and fans, prioritizing cost control over basketball strategy. The Chicago Bulls are embarking on a new era with a new front office and coach, aiming to avoid the mediocrity that has plagued the franchise despite drafting at No. 4, similar to their approach in 2020. Team USA is expected to announce its assistant coaches for the upcoming international competition, with Mark Daigneault, JB Bickerstaff, and Mark Few slated to join head coach Erik Spoelstra.