NBA Basketball 3 Days

Last updated: August 20, 2026, 10:05 AM ET

Trade Deadline Moves

The NBA's multi-team blockbuster sent Peyton Watson to the Cavaliers and Max Strus to the Clippers in a deal involving Cleveland, Denver, and Los Angeles. Watson will sign a new four-year, $88 million deal as part of the agreement. Meanwhile, the Pelicans have agreed to a one-year, $2.9 million deal with free agent forward Trendon Watford, adding depth to their wing rotation.

Front Office Drama

Jeanie Buss is contesting a family vote to sell the Lakers' remaining stake to Josh Kushner and Bob Iger, creating uncertainty around the franchise's future ownership structure. Sources indicate the Buss family has decided to move forward with the sale, which means Jeanie Buss will no longer serve as team governor. The NBA has also found no evidence that Clippers owner Steve Ballmer funneled money through team sponsors to pay Kawhi Leonard.

International Basketball

Victor Wembanyama has been named captain of Team France for the FIBA World Cup European qualifiers, marking a significant leadership role for the rising star. The French national team announced the designation on Wednesday as they prepare for international competition.

Arena Developments

San Antonio's city council rejected a proposed public vote on the Spurs' $489 million downtown arena project, voting 6-5 to block the referendum. The decision leaves the funding mechanism for the new arena in limbo. In Phoenix, the Suns are with plans to install the NBA's largest exterior video display at the Mortgage Matchup Center, featuring a 226-foot-wide by 41-foot-tall LED screen for the 2027 All-Star Game.

Offseason Previews

The Thunder's offseason moves have raised questions about whether weakened depth will cost them in the upcoming 2026-27 season. Analysts are examining how roster changes affect their championship window. In Minnesota, the Timberwolves' new backcourt pairing of Anthony Edwards and Lonzo Ball enters the season with high expectations. The Jazz are evaluating whether Darryn Peterson's arrival signals the end of their rebuild, while the Blazers face uncertainty with Damian Lillard's return amid organizational chaos.

Draft Outlook

After a summer of scouting, draft analyst Jeremy Woo has identified key prospects to watch for the 2027 and 2028 NBA drafts. NBA insiders are forecasting which top rookies from the 2026-27 class will make the biggest long-term impact and potentially reach stardom.

Ownership Statements

Nets owner Joe Tsai called the Knicks' title run "embarrassing" to his franchise in a recent interview, highlighting the competitive tension between the New York teams. The comment underscores the ongoing rivalry and differing organizational trajectories.

On-Court Legacy

ESPN analyst Zach Kram examined the defining moment of the 2025-26 NBA season, questioning whether the Knicks' championship or Adebayo's 83-point performance will be remembered as the era's signature achievement. The analysis considers which moments may resonate for decades to come.

Player Ventures

LeBron James has launched a new YouTube channel focused on golf, expanding his off-the-court brand beyond basketball. The 76ers star's latest venture showcases his continued influence across multiple platforms and interests.