NBA Basketball 8-Hour Briefing
×Last updated: October 16, 2026, 10:40 PM ET
Team & Roster News
Warriors center Kristaps Porzingis will remain out indefinitely with a private health issue but will stay around the team. Meanwhile, Jimmy Butler has spoken openly about his desire to return to Golden State, saying he "felt I let them down."
Sixers guard Tyrese Maxey said Thursday that a healthy Joel Embiid "changes everything" for Philadelphia. In San Antonio, Spurs coach Mitch Johnson finally deployed a three-guard lineup featuring De'Aaron Fox, Stephon Castle and Dylan Harper in a preseason win.
League Business & Rules
The NBA is prohibiting certain bets this season, including player prop parlays, as it restricts sportsbook offerings. The Bucks moved their home opener to an afternoon tipoff on Oct. 23 to avoid a World Series conflict.
A Spanish club is challenging the eligibility of Thunder rookie Aday Mara. In the Lakers' ownership saga, five Buss siblings filed a challenge against their sister Jeanie's petition to remove them as trustees.
Outlook & Analysis
An annual survey of NBA general managers projects the Spurs to win the title, with Victor Wembanyama leading the way. Brian Windhorst's latest intel covers Karl-Anthony Towns' next contract, expansion plans and why rival teams are watching Orlando.
Notable Passings & Tributes
Hall of Famer Cliff Hagan, a five-time All-Star and Kentucky hoops legend, died at 94. Steve Lacy also delighted a crowd at a concert with the viral "LeBron, LeBron, LeBron" version of his song "Oh Yeah?"
Coming Up
The Bucks open their home season on Oct. 23 with an afternoon tipoff.