NBA Basketball 3 Days

Last updated: August 20, 2026, 6:00 AM ET

Trade Deadline Moves

The Cavaliers, Nuggets and Clippers have agreed on a three-team deal that will send Peyton Watson to Cleveland and Max Strus to Los Angeles, sources told ESPN. Watson will sign a new four-year, $88 million deal with the Cavaliers as part of the blockbuster. The Clippers received a 2025 second-round pick and a 2026 first-round swap from Cleveland. Meanwhile, free agent forward Trendon Watford has agreed to a one-year, $2.9 million deal with the Pelicans, sources confirmed. The moves signal aggressive positioning ahead of the 2026-27 season.

Ownership Turmoil

Jeanie Buss is contesting a claim from the rest of the Buss family that they are selling the family's remaining stake in the Lakers to new owners Josh Kushner and Bob Iger. The dispute centers on control of the franchise amid ongoing succession planning. The Buss family has decided to sell its remaining ownership stake in the Lakers, meaning Jeanie Buss will no longer remain governor of the team. Sources indicated that the NBA has found no evidence showing LA Clippers owner Steve Ballmer funneled money through team sponsors to pay Kawhi Leonard. The league continues reviewing financial compliance across ownership groups.

Team Building & Previews

Does Minnesota's new backcourt make the Timberwolves a threat in the West? With the arrival of point guard Jrue Ball, ESPN analysts are examining how Anthony Edwards and Ball will mesh during the 2026-27 season. Is Darryn Peterson the future of the Jazz? The team's offseason moves suggest a potential end to the rebuild. With noise outside the hardwood growing in Portland, how will the Blazers respond? Damian Lillard is back but questions remain about roster cohesion. NBA insiders predict which top rookies will make the biggest long-term impact in their careers and who can reach stardom.

Standout Performances

ESPN analyst Zach Kram examines the moment from last season that could be remembered years — if not decades — to come. The Knicks' title run has captured national attention, though Nets owner Joe Tsai admitted in a recent interview that the success is "embarrassing" to his franchise. Victor Wembanyama continues making history, having been named captain of Team France for the FIBA World Cup European qualifiers. His leadership role underscores his rapid ascent as a global basketball icon.

Arena & Infrastructure

San Antonio's city council voted 6-5 to reject a proposed public vote on the city's $489 million contribution for a new Spurs downtown arena. The decision leaves the future of the project uncertain despite years of planning. The Suns announced Tuesday that it is installing an LED display on the exterior of Mortgage Matchup Center that will measure 226 feet wide by 41 feet tall, becoming the NBA's largest exterior video display ahead of the 2027 All-Star Game.

Community Impact

The NFL's Indianapolis Colts and NBA's Indiana Pacers are donating $125,000 each to flood relief efforts throughout the state. The WNBA's Indiana Fever and the G League basketball team Noblesville Boom are also contributing to the cause. These joint efforts highlight the collaborative spirit across Indiana sports organizations during times of crisis.

Off-Court Ventures

New 76ers star LeBron James has launched his latest off-the-court venture, starting a YouTube channel focused on golf. The platform showcases his passion for the sport while engaging fans beyond basketball. As James enters his age-41 season, his multimedia presence continues expanding into new territories.

We're looking back at the offseason and taking an early look at the regular season by rolling out one team profile each weekday through Sept. 18. Each preview provides insight into how recent transactions and developments shape the outlook for the 2026-27 campaign. From blockbuster trades to ownership changes, the league enters a pivotal chapter with renewed intensity and star power.