NBA Basketball 3 Days

Last updated: July 16, 2026, 2:30 PM ET

Summer League Buzz and Rookie Watch

The NBA summer league is providing an early look at the incoming talent, with No. 1 pick AJ Dybantsa in his debut. Dybantsa was shut down by the Wizards after two games, but not before and seven rebounds in a victory over the Pistons. Elsewhere, Trey Alexander of the Jazz exited a summer league game on a stretcher after a side injury. Rookies and intriguing sophomores are drawing attention across the league, with some players once overlooked in high school.

Free Agency and Roster Moves

Teams are through free agency and extensions. The Cavaliers reportedly signed Donovan Mitchell to a deal worth nearly $275 million. Meanwhile, the Lakers have agreed to terms with Ziaire Williams on a one-year, $3 million contract and Walker Kessler expressed his commitment to the team, stating he will "run through brick wall" for them. The Timberwolves, in a significant move, believe that acquiring point guard LaMelo Ball.

International and League-Wide Developments

NBA Europe talks are alongside the FIFA World Cup final, as the league moves closer to a potential European league launch in 2027. In personnel news, Jonas Valanciunas has left the NBA to join Lithuanian club Zalgiris Kaunas on a two-year deal. The league will not punish Bam Adebayo for his altercation with Tyler Herro at a Las Vegas gym, though Herro stated he wants to "move on" from the incident and is "focused on the next chapter in Milwaukee." The NBA's investigation into Kawhi Leonard for alleged cap circumvention must conclude before the start of next season, according to Commissioner Adam Silver.

Team Strategies and Coaching Changes

The Washington Wizards are as a potential difference-maker to move from last place in the East. The Philadelphia 76ers, with Tyrese Maxey, Joel Embiid, and Jaylen Brown, have reportedly been in communication with LeBron James as they. The Golden State Warriors are set to hire Frank Vogel as an associate head coach under Steve Kerr. The Chicago Bulls are embarking on what they believe is a new era after hiring a new front office and coach, aiming to avoid a repeat of past mediocrity.

Injury Updates and Player Status

Hawks forward Mouhamed Gueye underwent surgery for a fractured left foot and could miss the start of the season, with his status to be updated in three to four months. The Lakers' Austin Reaves, fresh off signing a lucrative deal, expressed optimism about the team's pieces in the post-LeBron era. Team USA is reportedly, with Mark Daigneault, JB Bickerstaff, and Mark Few expected to join Erik Spoelstra's staff.