Last updated: September 30, 2026, 6:26 AM ET
Philadelphia 76ers
The 76ers say they are comfortable with making sacrifices for the benefit of team success after their blockbuster offseason additions. With Joel Embiid, Paul George, and other stars now in the fold, the organization acknowledges that role players may need to adjust expectations. The front office remains confident that the veteran leadership and depth assembled will outweigh any individual stats that might decline.
New York Knicks
The Knicks are still deciding if they will become the first NBA champions to visit the White House under a Trump administration. Sources close to the team indicate that no final decision has been made, and the organization is weighing political considerations alongside traditional championship protocol. The uncertainty reflects broader tensions across the league regarding ceremonial visits.
NBA Officiating
The NBA has issued new guidance to referees on four types of high-volume actions, including push-offs, as part of its 2026-27 guidelines. League officials emphasized that the crackdown aims to improve game flow and reduce contact that slows possessions. Referees received detailed video breakdowns during their fall meetings, and players were notified that enforcement will be stricter out of the gate.
Las Vegas Expansion
The NBA is expected to select the winning bid for ownership of the Las Vegas expansion franchise in the $12-13 billion range as early as next month. Multiple finalist groups have submitted final proposals, and the board of governors is scheduled to meet to evaluate financial terms and market readiness. The Vegas market has emerged as a top priority for league growth.
JR Smith
Former NBA champion JR Smith was arrested Monday in Texas on a charge of assault related to a family violence incident. Smith, a two-time NBA champion with the Cavaliers, is being held pending a court appearance. The incident marks another off-court legal issue for the veteran guard, whose career has been marked by both brilliance and controversy.
Los Angeles Lakers
New addition Walker Kessler is convinced the Lakers have the right guys to be a nasty defensive unit heading into the season. Kessler, acquired in the summer, praised the team's defensive communication and intensity during early practices. The Lakers are positioning themselves as a top-10 defensive team, with Kessler anchoring the paint alongside Anthony Davis.
Boston Celtics
Jayson Tatum says he is thankful for his time with Jaylen Brown and the success they built together before Brown's trade to the Knicks. Tatum expressed comfort in his expanded leadership role and noted that the team's chemistry has improved during training camp. The Celtics are entering the season with high expectations despite the departure of their longtime core.
Los Angeles Clippers
Brandon Ingram, a key part of the Clippers' return in their trade of Kawhi Leonard, is out indefinitely following Achilles and heel surgery. The injury setback is a significant blow to the Clippers' wing depth as they open training camp. Ingram is expected to miss the start of the regular season, with a potential return slated for December.
Minnesota Timberwolves
Anthony Edwards says he is happy to cede point guard duties to LaMelo Ball and focus on defense as the Timberwolves enter the season with a retooled backcourt. Edwards, who averaged 26.6 points per game last season, emphasized that the team's success matters more than individual statistics. The shift in roles has already sparked excitement among fans and analysts.
NBA Training Camp
From Kawhi Leonard's return to Toronto to LeBron James' fit in Philadelphia, the league's training camps are showcasing dramatic roster shifts. Teams are also managing contract disputes and injury comebacks, with several All-Stars still unsigned long-term. The opening weeks of camp will reveal which teams have successfully integrated their new pieces.
New York Knicks
Karl-Anthony Towns said he wants to get a contract extension done with the Knicks but acknowledged there is uncertainty surrounding the timing. Towns, who was acquired in the Brown trade, expressed a strong desire to play in New York long-term. The Knicks are working through salary cap constraints and draft asset considerations to secure his commitment.
Denver Nuggets
Nikola Jokic left little doubt that he plans to be back in Denver at least through next season, confirming his intention to re-sign with the Nuggets. The two-time MVP emphasized his commitment to the franchise and the city, putting to rest speculation about his future. The Nuggets are expected to begin extension discussions soon.
Oklahoma City Thunder
The Oklahoma City Thunder said they are taking the same approach to the season and are not specifically focused on catching the San Antonio Spurs. Despite being compared to the Spurs' young core, the Thunder maintain that their internal development timeline is independent of external narratives. The team is emphasizing steady progress over rivalry-driven motivation.
New Orleans Pelicans
Zion Williamson smiled politely but kept his answer brief when asked how he would assess his first seven NBA seasons. Entering his eighth season, Williamson admitted he is not where he wants to be in terms of playoff success and personal milestones. The Pelicans are counting on his health and leadership to carry them into the postseason.
Los Angeles Clippers
The LA Clippers opened media day on Monday by apologizing to fans in the wake of NBA penalties related to the Kawhi Leonard investigation. Team president Lawrence Frank addressed the media and vowed to move past the controversy. The organization is focused on redirecting energy toward competitive improvement this season.
Washington Wizards
Anthony Davis plans on finishing the season with the Washington Wizards before deciding on an extension, according to sources. Davis, acquired in the summer, is expected to be a cornerstone of the franchise's rebuild. The Wizards are using his presence to attract other talent and build momentum around the young core.
Indiana Pacers
Pacers star guard Tyrese Haliburton says he won't have any restrictions as he returns from his Achilles tear, declaring himself ready to go for the season opener. Haliburton averaged 17.1 points and 9.3 assists last season before the injury cut his campaign short. The Pacers are counting on his playmaking to elevate their offense.
Washington Wizards
AJ Dybantsa, the Wizards' No. 1 pick, has already begun collecting cards this year and will be the cover athlete of 2026 Topps Flagship Basketball. The 19-year-old forward is the youngest player in program history to appear on the cover. His rookie season is highly anticipated, with comparisons to elite prospects across the league.
Miami Heat
Jimmy Butler has made headlines at past media days for his unique looks, and this year was no different as he arrived with an ombre faux locs hairstyle. Butler's fashion choices continue to generate buzz, but his focus remains on leading the Heat into the playoffs. The team is counting on his veteran presence and intensity.
NBA Newcomers
The storylines surrounding eight stars who recently changed teams will help define the upcoming season, with each player bringing new dynamics to their respective franchises. From blockbuster trades to sign-and-trauds, the league is more competitive and unpredictable than ever. These newcomers are expected to make immediate impacts.
Fantasy Basketball
Eric Karabell highlights the players who are falling further than they should be in fantasy drafts, including Jalen Brunson, Jordan Clarkson, and Austin Reaves. His "Do Draft" list identifies value plays that could outperform their average draft position. The fantasy basketball season is ramping up as leagues finalize rosters.
Fantasy Basketball
Our 10-team, roto/category fantasy basketball mock draft featured Nikola Jokic as the No. 1 overall pick, followed by Luka Doncic and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander in the top three. The draft results reveal early trends in player valuation and position scarcity. Fantasy managers are using these insights to prepare for their own league drafts.