DETROIT, MI - OCTOBER 5: Cade Cunningham #2 of the Detroit Pistons handles the ball during the game against the Phoenix Suns during a preseason game on October 5, 2026 at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Chris Schwegler/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
It’s been proven time and time again that Detroit knows how to turn an opening day into an unofficial holiday. This article can be considered my unofficial campaign to give the Detroit Pistons the same treatment.
Pistons fans (and NBA league office), walk with me for a minute.
In case you haven’t heard, it’ll be a matinee start on Oct. 20 for the Pistons, with Detroit and the Boston Celtics officially tipping off the NBA season at 3 p.m. ET on NBC/Peacock. So check your schedules, because the Pistons and Celtics will likely have settled things by the time most of the workforce starts their evening commute.
I, for one, am completely here for this new format for a number of reasons. Being the first game of the year during an isolated time slot gives the Pistons a chance to highlight their young and ascending roster. It also gives the city of Detroit a chance to showcase itself on a national stage as the only game taking place in the afternoon.
A weekday afternoon tipoff could be a tough ask for some working fans. But I also see an opportunity for a revitalized fanbase to build something worth planning around. Let’s also remember it is not uncommon for other sports to have a daytime game during their opening week. Professional baseball and college basketball have successfully used the daytime opening-day format for many years, so this is not entirely uncharted territory.
Though it likely won’t draw the crowds and hooplah of their baseball opening day counterparts, here is hoping (or maybe wishful thinking) that Detroit fans will come out in earnest, and that the Pistons and the NBA can partner together and embark on a new, longstanding tradition for opening day. Let’s make the afternoon opening game an annual tradition for the league and make Detroit its permanent home. Who says no?
Imagine Detroiters playing hookie for a half day, and local gathering spots such as Campus Martius, Tin Roof, or Harry’s packed with fans, with the party spilling out all over Woodward and beyond. It’d be an atmosphere all the same as Tigers opening day, but with a better bet for good weather. And if you’re a Detroit sports fan, what’s not to like? Fans would get to essentially start and end the summer with an electric opening day for two of your four professional sports teams, not to mention a built-in half-day off of work.
Anyways, enough of me dreaming.
The city has a chance to replicate some of the magic that the Tigers’ opening day has supplied over the years, a pseudo-holiday in these parts.
Leave the primetime games for the New Yorks and the Golden States of the world. We’re good over here.
Adam Silver, if you’re reading this, please make this a yearly reservation.
Pistons fans, let’s show up and make this new opening day the start of something special.
MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - DECEMBER 23: Karl-Anthony Towns #32 of the New York Knicks handles the ball against Rudy Gobert #27 of the Minnesota Timberwolves in the third quarter at Target Center on December 23, 2025 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Timberwolves defeated the Knicks 115-104. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by David Berding/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The World Champion New York Knicks have lost their first two preseason games and we are resoundingly unconcerned. Winning all the marbles has quite a calming effect on the nervous system.
Tonight, they host the Minnesota Timberwolves (2-1) at Madison Square Garden. The furry bunch has shed Julius Randle and Naz Reid, but added LaMelo Ball and Jonathan Kuminga. If nothing else, it’s a team to watch for curiosity’s sake. In this tilt, the Knicks will be challenged to play at a faster pace, with Ball and Anthony Edwards playing full-tilt and Kuminga adding vertical spacing. Then again, all of Minny’s starters are listed as day-to-day for rest, so this could look more like a scrimmage with a G League squad.
They last met December 23, 2025, when the Timberwolves won 115-104 in Minneapolis. Edwards scored 38 and Randle added 25; Karl-Anthony Towns poured in 40 for the Knicks with Jalen Brunson sidelined with an ankle issue.
Minnesota finished last season with a 116.8 offensive rating (12th) and 113.5 defensive rating (8th), scoring 118 points per game. Edwards remains the engine, scoring 28-plus points a night; Rudy Gobert still anchors the paint and owns the glass; and Jaden McDaniels supplies wing defense and secondary scoring.
New York is still searching for continuity after two losses. The starters have played limited minutes while they ramp up to full-game shape following their summer of love. Meanwhile, coach Mike Brown’s been mixing and matching the supporting cast as he seeks to lock down his roster. On the injury report, McCullar Jr., Agbaji, Eubanks and Bradley are listed as coach’s decisions, so James Wiseman and Bruce Brown should see more gametime off the bench.
Prediction
The Knicks should win if they control the glass, limit Minnesota’s transition, and get make their shots. If coach Chris Finch rests everybody, the Knicks should have an even easier time securing their first dub of the preseason. Knicks by nine.
Game Details
Who: New York Knicks (0-2) vs. Minnesota Timberwolves (2-1) Date: Monday, October 12, 2026 Time: 7:30 PM ET Place: Madison Square Garden, NYC, NY TV: MSG Follow: @ptknicksblog and bsky
CLEVELAND, OH - OCTOBER 11: Peyton Watson #8 of the Cleveland Cavaliers drives to the basket during the game against the Orlando Magic during a 2026 NBA Preseason game on October 11, 2026 at Rocket Arena in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
CLEVELAND — The Cleveland Cavaliers took care of business in their second preseason game as they dispatched the Orlando Magic 119-105 in what was overall a much cleaner performance than their first outing on Thursday.
Mario Hezonja needed a game like this.
His debut on Thursday was rough. He looked out of place and a step or two slow against a versatile, athletic Boston Celtics team. That wasn’t the case on Sunday, as he poured in 13 points on 5-for-9 shooting with five rebounds, two assists, and two steals.
Maybe Hezonja just needed to get his feet under him. Maybe it was playing against a much bigger and more physical team. Either way, this was a much better outing for Hezonja.
Head coach Kenny Atkinson called Hezonja a “diesel train” pregame, saying that he wants to see him get downhill in transition and attack the offensive boards. We saw him do both as he scored a few baskets in transition and had a nice and-one after grabbing an offensive rebound in the first quarter.
Hezonja has the skills to be an offensive connector, functional dribbler, floor spacer, and impactful rebounder. Every team would like to have a backup four that could provide all of those things. Hezonja was that player this game.
The NBA game is much different than what Hezonja was used to in Europe. Atkinson said that he’s tried to incorporate things from the international game into what the Cavs do. Hezonja laughed it off when he asked if there were similarities between Cleveland’s offense and what he thrived on over in Europe.
“I wish in Europe that we play like this,” Hezonja said. “I wish. I wish, because this is smart. This is what it is. But also you don’t have this type of personnel in Europe. … The entire (NBA) game is based on reads nowadays.”
This isn’t the only adjustment Hezonja is making. He’s also getting used to fitting into a different role than what he’s been used to over the past six years with entirely new teammates.
“So you’re just adjusting to the system, coming off the bench, trying to see who are my teammates on the court, what they need, what type of game is it until I get in there,” Hezonja said. “So, just reading over there, it gets a little bit maybe for a couple seconds [it’s weird], but then the experience kicks in.”
Getting used to the Cavs won’t happen overnight. But based on the skills that he showed on Sunday, being patient for him to get up to speed seems like it’ll be worth it.
“It’s an adjustment,” Atkinson said. “We’ve got to have empathy for that. It’s not going to happen overnight.”
James Harden looks ready for the regular season after his preseason opener on Sunday. Harden was able to get wherever he wanted on the court, scored with ease, and created contact to generate free-throw attempts. This resulted in 24 points on 7-for-10 shooting with two assists in 26 minutes.
Atkinson wants to see how Evan Mobley fits alongside Harden. The Cavs have experimented with different lineup combinations throughout these two exhibition games. One that may stick is the Harden and Mobley grouping.
“James’s ball handling can help Evan, especially in the pocket,” Atkinson said. “Can we see that more? We’ll see if we can stick with it, but so far I’ve liked it.”
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Overall, Atkinson said that we shouldn’t look too deeply into the rotation, especially in terms of the backup point guards. That said, it’s worth pointing out that Tyrese Proctor hasn’t gotten much of a chance to prove anything in the preseason.
Meleek Thomas is more of an unknown commodity. Getting him as much run as possible with rotation players in a setting like this is important and worthwhile. However, those minutes have come completely at the expense of Proctor, which isn’t a good sign for him.
We’ll see if this changes for the final tune-up game on Tuesday, where Atkinson expects the starters to play more than they did here. As of now, it’s difficult to envision Proctor getting rotation minutes at the start of the season.
The Magic aren’t as good of an offensive rebounding team as the Celtics. That’s worth pointing out. Yet, it is encouraging that the Cavs were able to do a much better job in this area.
Rebounding is one of the points Atkinson has continually pointed out as wanting to improve this year. This performance was a step in the right direction.
Peyton Watson struggled to establish an offensive rhythm. He aired a three and overall just didn’t seem as comfortable offensively here as he did against Boston, as he went 3-for-10 from the floor for just six points.
“He got a little clunky there offensively, just him not knowing our principles and how we play,” Atkinson said. “We’ll clean that up. I’m not worried about that.”
Like Hezonja, this is an adjustment period for Watson as well.
“Just a little bit more unpredictability,” Watson said when asked what the difference was between this offense and the ones he was a part of with the Denver Nuggets.
The Cavs are giving Watson more responsibilities. They’re allowing him to create with the ball and entrusting him to be more than just a floor spacer or cutter. This added freedom should allow him to grow into a better all-around player. But there could be bumps along the way. This is in addition to figuring out what lineups he fits with best.
“It’s all about instincts and knowing how to play the game around two elite offensive players, just knowing where to be. Whereas with Joker (Nikola Jokic), I kind of knew every time down he was going to have the ball on the floor, on this spot or this spot, and the play or the cut was going to be for me to do this or do that.
“Here, there’s a lot more possibilities of things that I can do/bring to the table. I think that it’s an adjustment. I’m still getting acclimated, but I couldn’t be happier to be in this situation. I think it’ll really benefit my game, and I think it’ll benefit the team as well.”
New York Knicks management clearly thought talk about contract extensions for Karl-Anthony Towns and Josh Hart were becoming a distraction, so they paused those talks until later in the season.
"It was news to me," Towns said. "Very disappointed, to say the least. Let's state the obvious: It's a business, but there is business on the court for us to handle."
Towns hits on a key point: This is a veteran New York roster that is not going to let contract talk or other things distract them. They will be professional and focused.
New York has four players eligible for extensions — Towns, Hart, Miles McBride and Tyler Kolek — but it's Towns and Hart that are drawing attention as the Knicks try to find a way to keep their championship core together while the second apron looms.
Towns is eligible for a four-year, $276 million extension, but he's repeatedly said he is willing to take a discount to help the team — just not as big a discount as the Knicks were thinking. New York reportedly offered four years, $200 million, a $50 million per season average, which is a considerable pay cut from the $57.1 million he will make this season (Towns has a $61 million player option for the 2027-28 season). Towns has said he feels he's earned a payday, coming off a season in which he averaged 20.1 points and 11.9 rebounds per game and was critical to the Knicks winning an NBA title.
The Knicks want to cool the temperature and put negotiations on hold for a little while, and released this statement.
"As an organization, our entire focus is on preparing for the upcoming season and delivering another year for our fans to be proud of. As a result, we will not be negotiating contract extensions until later in the season and will remain solely focused on preparing for the start of the season."
The Knicks just didn't tell Towns about it before they announced it.
TORONTO, ON - NOVEMBER 2 - Toronto Raptors guard Jamal Shead (23) celebrates a teamates basket as the Toronto Raptors will retire Vince Carter's jersey on a night they play the Sacramento Kings at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto. November 2, 2024. (Photo by Steve Russell/Toronto Star via Getty Images) | Toronto Star via Getty Images
The 2027-28 season is a year away from starting, and yet, there may already be something to be hopeful about for Raptors fans.
On Sunday, Twitter account ProLine Mockups has announced that according to their sources, the Toronto Raptors will be among four NBA teams to receive major overhauls to their jersey lineups.
BREAKING: The Pacers, Spurs, Raptors* and Wizards will have new uniforms next season.
Pacers: adding to the new yellow Statement Edition that's releasing this season, they will likely add matching pinstripe versions of the Association and Icon Editions (the 2 main uniforms).… https://t.co/tUZkoJg1BYpic.twitter.com/7hRWAGjWd4
The Raptors in particular are described as about to change the colour of their Statement Edition jerseys from black, to purple. Most recently worn during Game 5 of the playoffs last year (which the Raptors lost to the Cleveland Cavaliers), these jerseys with the staggered letters were first introduced in 2020.
Meant to merge old and new design elements, combining the team’s modern look with the pinstripes of their original dinosaur jerseys, these jerseys have been a mainstay of Toronto’s look for the entirety of the 2020s.
CLEVELAND, OHIO – APRIL 29: Ja'kobe Walter #14 of the Toronto Raptors celebrates during the second quarter of Game Five of the Eastern Conference First Round NBA Playoffs against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Rocket Arena on April 29, 2026 in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images) | Getty Images
However, it seems that this jersey’s darkness will be giving way to the traditional royal purple. And while it’s not new for the Raptors to wear purple jerseys as alternates, making Toronto’s Statement Edition purple means that the colour will yet again become a semi-permanent part of the team’s brand. NBA’s LockerVision site explains this, noting that Statement jerseys are “core uniforms… on-court for multiple seasons.” This means that Purple Fever could be hear to stay.
Journalist Zulfi Sheikh posted a mockup of the potential jerseys, showing what a simple colour swap would look like. ProLine, the originators of this rumour, did not suggest that the Raptors would fully reincorporate new branding centred around a dinosaur of any kind, so this conservative approximation is the most realistic concept of new jerseys based on the most up-to-date information.
"Raptors: Statement Edition changing from black to purple!"
This would be a step in the right direction for the Raptors, who have retained the “chevron” jerseys as their main look for multiple years, despite some very popular City Editions coming and going, with both the 2024-25 and 2025-26 looks bringing back the Raptor mascot in a prominent fashion.
There seems to be overwhelming public admiration for the purple dinosaur jerseys of the 1990s, which the Raptors are resistant to embrace despite a resurgence of throwback looks across the league. And while ProLine’s reporting does not suggest that fans will get to see that look back in a major way anytime soon, this is certainly an improvement over more red and black.
Regarding the veracity of these claims, ProLine refused to name their source of information, but, have a record of accuracy regarding such information. In 2025, they correctly predicted the revamped Rockets and Timberwolves jerseys for the 2026-27 season. While the return of the Hawk’s classic bird logo was incorrectly suggested, ProLine explained that the idea ended up going unused, despite a leak of the jerseys in the 2K video games.
BREAKING: The Rockets, Timberwolves and Hawks will have new uniforms next season.
So, it seems that the Raptors are likely to make a big switch next season. How are you feeling about those new jerseys? Excited? Bored? Happy? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
CHARLOTTE, NC - OCTOBER 11: Naz Reid #0 of the Charlotte Hornets handles the ball during the game against the Milwaukee Bucks during a preseason game on October 11, 2026 at Spectrum Center in Charlotte, North Carolina. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Brock Williams-Smith/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
The Milwaukee Bucks fell to the Charlotte Hornets. Tyler Herro led all Bucks scorers with 18 points in 23 minutes, followed by Ryan Rollins (12 in 23) and Kyle Kuzma (12 in 22). Brandon Miller—marked as day-to-day before the game—showed out, dropping 18 points in 23 minutes. Brayden Burries, Nate Ament, Ousmane Dieng, Kasparas Jakucionis, and new acquisition Johni Broome were all inactive for the Bucks, among a few others.
The Bucks began the game on the right foot, with Tyler Herro converting a midrange floater to open the scoring. Soon, led by triples from Ryan Rollins and Jaime Jaquez Jr., the Bucks jumped to a 10-2 lead. However, the up-tempo Hornets offense worked wonders, getting the home team back into it and tying the game at 13—Bucks timeout. Royce O’Neale took the lead with 4:17 remaining, but AJ Green answered with a 28-foot three-pointer to tie it. Triples from Tidjane Salaun (he can shoot now!) and Sion James, however, pushed Charlotte’s lead to six shortly thereafter. Kevin Porter Jr. rose over Ryan Kalkbrenner to throw down a contact dunk, and Jericho Sims had a nice reverse layup to narrow the lead, but Charlotte held on to end the quarter, up 29-26.
Although Kyle Kuzma connected early in the second quarter, the Hornets kept rolling over Milwaukee—mostly in transition. A Brandon Miller three widened Charlotte’s lead to six, forcing a Milwaukee timeout. From there, the Hornets clicked as the Bucks’ offense stalled. Miller had 11 second-quarter points, while key scorers like Herro remained muted. The Bucks also struggled with ball handling, committing seven first-half turnovers. That said, Milwaukee ran a 10-3 stretch to cut Charlotte’s lead to two with three minutes left in the half, but Charlotte answered with 13 unanswered points—led by Naz Reid and Sion James—to close out the half up 60-45.
The Bucks struggled to find their footing from long range, while the Hornets kept dancing around Milwaukee’s defense. Without Kel’el Ware on the court, Milwaukee’s bigs looked slow to switch on the perimeter. They also looked especially vulnerable on screens, where Charlotte could either find an open corner shooter when the defense collapsed or trap the Bucks big in a favourable two-on-one. Charlotte’s advantage stayed steady, led by their small-ball pairing of Naz Reid and Moussa Diabaté. A thunderous Ryan Kalkbrenner lob put the home team up 20 with just over two minutes remaining. The Bucks’ offense looked unresponsive to anything the Hornets’ defense gave it; they didn’t shoot well from three, and they weren’t good at banging it out in the post. The Hornets had a big lead at the end of third quarter, up 87-67.
The game was all but over as the final frame began. Charlotte put in a reserve lineup led by first-round draft pick Hannes Steinbach and two-way center PJ Hall, while Herro, Kuzma, and Porter tried to close the Hornets’ 20-point lead. The Hornets scrapped against the Bucks’ starters, taking charges, grappling for offensive rebounds, and making extra passes to find open teammates on the perimeter. Eventually, he Bucks threw in the towel and trotted out Pete Nance, Kam Jones, and Jake Stephens, who made his preseason debut. Despite Stephens’ late three-pointer to close out the game, it was too little, too late as the Hornets strolled out of Spectrum Center with the win.
Stat That Stood Out
The Bucks shot 3/17 from three during the second quarter. That shooting slump let the Hornets build a large lead and eventually run away with the game. It seemed like no one, including the Bucks’ sharpshooters, could find the net.
Obscene Overreaction
Will Kevin Porter Jr. struggle heavily this season? He hasn’t scored double digits in the preseason, and his performance today—six points on 1/6 shooting—was particularly underwhelming. With so much guard depth on the roster, KPJ could quickly fall out of Milwaukee’s rotation.
CLEVELAND, OHIO - OCTOBER 11: James Harden #1 of the Cleveland Cavaliers celebrates after scoring during the first quarter of a preseason game against the Orlando Magic at Rocket Arena on October 11, 2026 in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The Cleveland Cavaliers beat the Orlando Magic 119-105. The Cavs are now 1-1 in the preseason.
James Harden led all scorers with 24 points. This was Harden’s first game of the preseason after missing Cleveland’s previous game with ankle soreness. He looked like he hadn’t missed a step, easing into a rhythym and making his first five shots.
Preseason, regular season, it doesn't matter — Harden is going to get his three-point make and-one. pic.twitter.com/MaKWPsu2ON
Cleveland traded for Harden in the middle of last season, giving them minimal time to practice and gel with their new star. A full summer and training camp should allow them to hit the ground running this season. So far, so good. Harden had complete control of the offense and showed that he can still score in bunches even at 37 years old.
Evan Mobley added 14 points and 7 rebounds. He struggled from the floor (3-10 shooting) but made up for it by getting to the free throw line and nailing 8-of-9 attempts.
Jaylon Tyson drilled three three-pointers for 13 points in 16 minutes. The third-year wing is expected to play a key role on Cleveland’s bench this season.
The Cavs weren’t happy with their defensive effort last week when they lost to the Boston Celtics. They wanted to shore up their efforts on the glass and do a better job of containing the perimeter tonight. And, they picked the right opponent to set that goal, as Orlando’s lack of offensive firepower made it easier to shrink the floor. The Magic shot just 13-of-36 from downtown and weren’t able to consistently create advantages against a more active Cavs defense at the point of attack.
Mario Hezonja had a nice bounce-back game with 13 points on 5-9 shooting. Hezonja looked a step slow in his previous game but was able to break free in transition and serve as a floor-spacer tonight. He also added 5 rebounds, 3 blocks, and 2 steals.
The Cavs play their final game of the preseason on Tuesday before beginning the regular season on the road against the Philadelphia 76ers on October 22.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - OCTOBER 08: AJ Dybantsa #4 of the Washington Wizards dribbles during the second half against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden on October 08, 2026 in New York City. The Wizards won 111-109. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The Washington Wizards host the Brooklyn Nets on Monday night.
Game Info
When: Monday, Oct. 12 at 7 p.m. ET
Where: Capital One Arena
How to watch: Monumental Sports Network
Injury Report
Wizards: Jamir Watkins and Tristan Vukcevic are out. Khris Middleton and Tre Mann are day-to-day.
What to watch for
The Wizards and Nets enter their preseason tussle with identical 2-0 records. Washington squeaked by two Eastern Conference powerhouses in its first two games, while Brooklyn beat the revamped Philadelphia 76ers and Charlotte Hornets.
Fans can get a third look at AJ Dybantsa against NBA-level competition. The No. 1 overall pick showed flashes of excellence in his first two preseason outings with lethal transition attacks and high defensive activity. Hopefully, he can get his shooting stroke going, as he remains 0-for-5 from three-point range and 6-for-13 from the free-throw line.
The new-look starting five of Dybantsa, Trae Young, Anthony Davis, Kyshawn George, and Alex Sarr needs all the reps it can get. Expect that unit to see a little more run tomorrow night with opening night just over a week away.
PHOENIX, AZ - OCTOBER 10: Luke Kennard #8 of the Phoenix Suns handles the ball during the game against the San Antonio Spurs during a preseason game on October 10, 2026 at PHX Arena in Phoenix, Arizona. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Barry Gossage/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
I don’t know if Grayson Allen’s departure would necessarily be described as a big shoes to fill. But when you look at the production he provided over three seasons with the Phoenix Suns, it might be one of the more underrated stories surrounding the organization during that stretch.
Allen appeared in 190 games for Phoenix, starting 108 of them, while averaging 13.3 points on 41.0% shooting from beyond the arc. Add in 3.4 rebounds and 2.9 assists per game, along with the fact that he led the NBA in three-point shooting three seasons ago at 46.1% while starting 74 of the 75 games in which he appeared, and you begin to appreciate how valuable his contributions were. That’s a role that won’t be easy to replicate, and it’s essentially the one Luke Kennard is stepping into as he arrives in Phoenix.
Kennard carries much of the same stigma that followed Allen prior to his arrival in the Valley, particularly when it comes to his archetype as a player. He’s viewed primarily as a three-point shooter, somebody whose value is largely defined by his ability to knock down shots from the perimeter. But what Kennard has showcased thus far in the preseason is an ability to contribute in ways beyond his shooting.
Of course, shooting the basketball remains his calling card, and through three preseason appearances, he’s demonstrated why. In 17.8 minutes per game, Kennard is averaging 12.3 points while shooting 35.7% from beyond the arc. He’s attempting 4.7 three-pointers per game, which is where much of his offensive impact is expected to come from.
Throughout his career, Kennard has posted a three-point attempt rate of 58.4%, meaning the majority of his field goal attempts have come from beyond the arc. That trend has continued through the preseason, with 56% of his shots, 14 of his 25 attempts, coming from deep. If he’s going to replicate the role Allen occupied in Phoenix, he still has ground to cover in that area. Allen attempted 68% of his shots from beyond the three-point line, showcasing how heavily his offensive role was built around perimeter shooting.
But what Kennard has showcased this preseason is a much more layered and complex ability to handle the basketball than I think I was prepared for. Much like I didn’t fully appreciate how effective Grayson Allen was at putting the ball on the floor and attacking the cylinder, I wasn’t nearly as aware of Kennard’s ability to use his handle to create opportunities for himself while also facilitating and finding his teammates.
Through three preseason appearances, Kennard has recorded 10 assists against only three turnovers, adding another dimension to what he can provide the second unit. His ability to create offense beyond simply catching and shooting makes that group more versatile and potentially more potent.
Will he become the volume shooter that Allen was last season? Allen averaged 8.9 three-point attempts per game in the 24 games he came off the bench, so Kennard still has some ground to cover if he’s going to replicate that level of opportunity and production. He’ll need to demonstrate that he can remain effective while taking on a larger role as a perimeter shooter. And the Suns are going to need that production, especially considering they project to be among the bottom tier of NBA teams in three-point shooting percentage this season.
What Kennard has demonstrated thus far is a much more layered offensive skill set than I initially anticipated, one that was on full display Saturday night when he scored 20 points against the San Antonio Spurs.
"PHOENIX GONNA LOVE SOME LUKE KENNARD!"
Kennard recorded 20 PTS (game-high), 5 REB, 4 AST and 4 3PM to lead Phoenix to their first preseason win last night… and Dillon Brooks crashed his postgame interview to hype up his new @Suns teammate 🤣🙌 pic.twitter.com/eoaZedwHJE
That’s what makes Kennard’s early performances so encouraging. Phoenix acquired him to replace a significant portion of the shooting it lost, but he’s beginning to demonstrate that his value could extend beyond the three-point line. The ball-handling, decision-making, and ability to create opportunities for others provide Jordan Ott with additional flexibility. Kennard doesn’t need to become Grayson Allen 2.0. He needs to make his own impact. And through three preseason games, he’s showing us that there’s more to his game than we anticipated.
“Obviously very disappointed, to say the least. Let’s be honest here,” the big man said Sunday. “But even though there was no business done, there’s still business to be handled. After 53 years, we found a way to bring this trophy back to New York, and we intend for it to stay in New York.”
Karl-Anthony Towns (32) of the New York Knicks speaks to the media during New York Knicks Media Day at the Knicks Training Facility on Monday, September 28, 2026, in Tarrytown, New York. Getty Images
Towns had been vocal about the stalled talks, especially since the Knicks are coming off their first championship since 1973. The Post previously reported the Knicks offered Towns a four-year deal worth about $200 million. That is $77 million less than his max and a pay cut from his current $57 million salary. Towns is willing to take a discount, but not such a drastic one.
Last week, Towns said he was surprised a new deal hadn’t materialized. When asked if he expected one, the six-time All-Star responded: “No s–t, Sherlock. I just won a championship. You’d think it was pretty easy. Unless you guys [reporters] think I have something else to prove.”
An extension isn’t coming for the foreseeable future after the Knicks said Friday they “will not be negotiating contract extensions until later in the season and will remain solely focused on preparing for the start of the season.”
New York Knicks owner James Dolan sits courtside during the first half of a preseason game at Madison Square Garden in New York, Thursday, Oct. 8, 2026. Corey Sipkin for the NY POST
Josh Hart and Miles McBride are also eligible for extensions. The front office is navigating owner James Dolan’s mandate to stay under the second apron.
Hart broached the topic Saturday, saying he won’t let his contract interfere with the task at hand. The Knicks hold a $22.3 million team option on Hart for 2027-28.
“Obviously, we have high expectations,” Hart said. “It’s good to be able to just focus on the season and keep it moving.”
New York Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns looks to shoot during the first half of a preseason NBA basketball game against the Washington Wizards, Thursday, Oct. 8, 2026, in New York. AP Photo/Adam Hunger
Complicating matters, Towns has until Oct. 19 to decline his $61 million player option for 2027-28. Otherwise, he cannot sign a contract extension with the Knicks during the regular season — assuming the franchise reopens talks.
“I wouldn’t say I’ve thought about it, because I never thought it would get to this point,” said Towns, who played a key role in the Knicks winning it all last June, averaging 15.9 points, 10.6 rebounds and 4.9 assists in the playoffs. “But I think right now what’s best for our team is we just focus on the basketball.”
Towns seems on board with focusing on the coming season. While he wants a contract extension, it won’t get in the way of the ultimate goal: another title.
“We’re all humans, but what I do say is true: My only philosophy since we won and the only thing I’ve had in my mind is how do we win another one,” he said. “For me, the same focus I came in this season with is the same focus I’ll go into Game 1 with: How do we keep the trophy in New York past just this one summer?”
And the uncertainty came from Redick openly acknowledging both of the final two starting spots were up for grabs.
Nearly 2 ½ weeks later, the Lakers are still figuring out who’ll fill those two final starting spots for the regular season opener against the Warriors on Oct. 21 at Crypto.com Arena.
Walker Kessler is also an obvious starter for the Lakers. NBAE via Getty Images
The nature of the Lakers’ first week of preseason has made it challenging for the team to assess who should fill those starting spots.
Reaves made his preseason debut, and Doncic and Thybulle played, in the Oct. 8 home win over the Kings, but Kessler, Williams and Sexton remained sidelined, with Kessler and Sexton yet to make their preseason debut.
Quentin Grimes is poised to be one of the Lakers’ starters come Opening Night. Getty Images
The Lakers’ player-availability changes have made it difficult for Redick and his staff to determine starters with 1 ½ weeks before the games start to matter in the standings.
“I would say we’ve certainly seen glimpses of the things we like,” Redick said. “It’s hard because we’ve just been a little disjointed with the guys being banged up, so there’s nothing definitive yet.”
Ziaire Williams has received a lot of praise for what he’s shown behind the scenes. NBAE via Getty Images
While the Lakers are using the final week to figure out who the starters will be, Quentin Grimes is primed to be one of those starters.
The 26-year-old wing has started in all three of the team’s preseason games so far, averaging 13.4 points (53.4% shooting, 46.2% on 3-pointers), regardless of who else was available.
“Feel like Quentin is a really nice complement to Luka and AR,” Redick said of Grimes last week. “He’s obviously got the experience of playing with Luka prior in Dallas. In all our team building, it was about finding guys that complement Luka and AR, and we feel like we did that.”
That leaves one starting spot open, with Ziaire Williams receiving a lot of praise for what he’s shown behind the scenes.
The 6-foot-10 forward played a significant part in setting the defensive tone in the preseason-opening win over the Kings, but has been limited over the last several days because of a foot contusion.
Jake LaRavia has been one of the most consistent performers for the Lakers during the preseason. NBAE via Getty Images
But the Lakers have been impressed by what the Lancaster native has shown.
“Activity, length, shot-making, plays the game the right way,” Reaves said of Williams. “[He] checks all of the right boxes for a guy you want on your team.”
Jake LaRavia has also impressed during the preseason, averaging 12.7 points (63.6% shooting), 3.3 rebounds, 2 assists and 2 steals in the three preseason exhibitions.
He’s also showcased an improved jump shot (54.5% on 3s).
Could second-year forward Adou Thiero go from a rotation uncertainty to a potential starter? AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill
“He’s worked on his shot,” Redick said. “There’s a lot of things that we did this summer. And he was really focusing on three very minor tweaks. From there, he felt really comfortable with those tweaks. And so from there, it just comes down to repetition. And from repetition, you get confidence. That’s just the way shooting works: It’s form, repetition, confidence. It’s hard to have confidence without the first two. And it’s hard to have good repetitions if your form sucks.
“And it’s not that his form sucked, his form had a really good base. But he just made small tweaks. He’s shot the ball really well in practice. In our live play, we tracked all the stats throughout every practice we’ve had so far, he shot it well. He shot it [well in games]. So he’s in a great place offensively. And then you add in all the stuff that he does: The intangible stuff, defensively and 50-50 balls, all that stuff. He’s a really valuable player.”
Notably, second-year forward Adou Thiero started in the most recent game against the Kings, when Williams was sidelined but Sandro Mamukelashvili, LaRavia and Thybulle were available.
Instead, he chose to tell himself a different story.
“It was tough, but I think it’s always important to remember things happen for a reason,” Kessler said at Lakers practice Sunday.
“And I think that with the absence of basketball, my longing to play basketball grew even more to where I’m gonna be playing with so much joy that I’ve played with in a long time because I’ve never sat out for a whole season.”
Walker Kessler of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts during an NBA preseason game against the Sacramento Kings at Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, Calif., Monday, Oct. 5, 2026. NBAE via Getty Images
Things have worked out for Kessler.
The Lakers acquired him in a sign-and-trade deal with Utah in July, sending two unprotected first-round picks and two first-round pick swaps to the Jazz and signing Kessler to a four-year, $130 million contract.
So, he went from playing for a team that missed the playoffs the last four seasons and is trying to rebuild to a team that views anything short of a championship as a failure.
The Lakers really believe in Walker. They mortgaged their future for him. They don’t have any tradeable first-round draft picks over the next seven years.
“He’s a guy that I’ve followed since his rookie year,” Lakers coach JJ Redick said Sunday. “We played against him my rookie year coaching and [he’s] somebody that I had identified a long time ago [as] somebody that I loved to have in a Laker uniform at some point.”
Los Angeles Lakers player Walker Kessler during media day at the UCLA Health Training Center in El Segundo, Calif., Monday, Sept. 28, 2026. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
Kessler now has the opportunity of a lifetime.
He’s playing for one of the league’s premier franchises. He’s sharing the court with Luka Dončić, one of the top-four players in the NBA. He has said multiple times that he’s ready to run through a wall for the purple and gold.
He jammed his finger against the backboard during training camp and has been sidelined for all three of the team’s preseason games. He’s questionable for Tuesday’s exhibition game against the Warriors.
Redick said Walker participated in live action drills at Sunday’s practice, but added that he’s “not willing to commit” to whether Walker will make his preseason debut Tuesday or in the Lakers’ final exhibition Friday.
Kessler joked that he blocked some shots with his wrapped up pinky finger, smiling while showing reporters how he moved it out of the way.
He’s eager to get on the court.
Walker Kessler and Austin Reaves of the Los Angeles Lakers look on during the game against the Sacramento Kings on Thursday, Oct. 8, 2026, at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. NBAE via Getty Images
Kessler wants to establish himself as the anchor alongside a defense he has referred to as “nasty.” He wants to build chemistry alongside Doncic and Austin Reaves as a member of the Lakers’ Big 3. He wants to do what he loves again.
So, sitting out these last three preseason games for what he referred to as precautionary reasons has been tough.
“I think it would be a little different if I played last season, but because I didn’t play last season, I’m like, ‘Ah, I want to play really bad,'” Kessler said. “I’m ready to play, but I trust the staff and I trust the trainers, the coaches, and front office, you know? So yeah, just listening to them right now.”
Kessler is being patient.
He’s considered one of the league’s elite rebounders and rim protectors. He missed a season during his prime. Really, his ceiling is unknown at this point.
Los Angeles Lakers Walker Kessler throws out the Dodgers’ first pitch before a game against the St. Louis Cardinals, Thursday, Sept. 3, 2026, in Los Angeles. Wally Skalij for CA Post
During the 2024-2025 campaign, he averaged 11.1 points, 12.2 rebounds and 2.4 blocked shots per game. He contested 7.5 shots per game at the rim, tying him for fifth-most in the league, according to NBA.com.
The Lakers are going to need even more from him.
They’re going to need him to transform into an All-Defense-type player. They’re going to need him to be a beast in the paint. They’re going to need him to put on a show catching lobs from Doncic.
Kessler is ready.
He’s waited a year for this moment.
And he’s choosing to believe that his long layoff will make him even more ready for this moment.
“It depends on how you look at it,” Kessler said, “you can always look at a positive outcome for some situations. So, that’s what I’m choosing to do.”
CLEVELAND, OHIO - MARCH 24: Evan Mobley #4 of the Cleveland Cavaliers dribbles down the court during the second half against the Orlando Magic at Rocket Arena on March 24, 2026 in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Nick Cammett/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The Cleveland Cavaliers have their second and final home preseason matchup against the Orlando Magic. This is one of two meetings against the Magic during the exhibition season.
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Kessler progressed to participating during the live action portion of Sunday’s practice after doing everything else but live drills during Saturday’s session.
Lakers center Walker Kessler provided reporters with an update on his left pinky finger injury after Sunday’s practice. Khobi Price
The 7-foot-2 big man sat out of the Lakers’ first three preseason games, and didn’t fully participate in the first couple of weeks of practice, after jamming his left pinky finger on a backboard during a training camp session.
Lakers center Walker Kessler shot free throws with his left pinky finger wrapped. Khobi Price
“Just jammed it a little bit,” Kessler said. “Just taking precautionary stuff, especially since it’s preseason. But it feels good. Fully went [on Sunday] in practice, felt great. It was good.”
Coach JJ Redick and Kessler didn’t commit to an availability status for Tuesday.
The Lakers’ last preseason game is Friday vs. the Nuggets at Crypto.com Arena.
“A lot can happen in 48 hours,” Redick said. “We’ll be smart with it. See how he feels [on Monday]. But not willing to commit to him playing Tuesday or not. He’ll get some live play at some point this week.”
Walker Kessler is itching to make his preseason debut for the Lakers. NBAE via Getty Images
Walker Kessler getting up free throws after the Lakers' practice.
Kessler said he wants to play “really bad” and is ready to play, but is trusting the Lakers with his return-to-play process.
“It would be a little different if I played last season,” said Kessler, referring to only playing five regular-season games in 2025-26 before having season-ending left shoulder surgery.
He added: “But because I didn’t play last season, I’m like, ‘Ah, I want to play really bad.’ I’m ready to play, but I trust the staff and I trust the trainers, the coaches, and front office, you know? So yeah, just listening to them right now.”
MIAMI, FL - OCTOBER 10: Zyon Pullin #15 of the Minnesota Timberwolves looks to pass the ball during the game against the Miami Heat on October 10, 2026 at Kaseya Center in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Issac Baldizon/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
Fresh off their one-point victory over the Miami Heat in which no starters from either team saw the court, the Minnesota Timberwolves are back in action on Monday. In their most important and telling game of the preseason, the Wolves head to the Big Apple to take on the defending champions
Neither the Wolves nor the Knicks have played their starters past 20 minutes in their preseason contests. Figure for more of the same in this bout. In a recent practice clip, LaMelo Ball told Anthony Edwards to look for the mismatches early.
The Knicks are a team loaded with solid wing defenders in OG Anunoby, Mikal Bridges, and Josh Hart. Expect OG to match up with Ant, Bridges to take the Melo assignment, and Hart to guard Kuminga. If the Wolves are following Melo’s direction, they will hunt Jalen Brunson. As Dane Moore noted on the new Wolves Collectivepodcast, “Three years ago, teams would put their worst defender on Jaden McDaniels… On this team (this iteration of the Wolves), you have to hide your worst defender on Jaden McDaniels.”
This likely means McDaniels gets defended by Brunson. To continue to build chemistry, the Wolves are turning to guard-wing pick-and-rolls on the perimeter. This pulls Brunson into the action and leaves the Knicks with the question of whether to switch the coverage and play at a severe disadvantage.
Wolves fans are well-versed in watching Karl-Anthony Towns try to guard both at the level and in drop coverage, to mixed results filled with whistles. The Knicks no longer have the benefit of defensive stalwart and offensive rebounding savant Mitchell Robinson to back up or play alongside KAT. Should the Big Bodega pick up a few quick fouls, his night likely ends early, and the Knicks become that much easier to defend.
On the other side of the ball, Brunson is one of the craftiest scorers in the league and is unflappable when the game is tightest. Luckily, that won’t really matter in this game. The Knicks know who their core is, so long as owner James Dolan wishes to keep that core together.
They will run through their paces to keep the rust off, using the lethal Brunson/KAT pick-and-roll, spraying the ball out to capable shooters and decision-makers if blunted, all in an effort to put the Wolves’ defense in the blender. What Coach Brown needs to figure out is which of their veteran minimum and training camp invitees can support their title defense. More on that later.
Hustle Factor vs. The Right Play
The play of Joan Beringer in the most recent preseason game was encouraging. Yes, he did pick up his seemingly requisite four fouls, but his normally overflowing youthful energy was tapered. He did a better job waiting for the contact on his screen and giving the ball handler space before rushing to the rim. He held a little block party for himself, notching four of them in his 24 minutes of play, but what impressed me most was how infrequently he left his feet.
Instead, he showed more patience for the play to develop, as well as understanding that getting scored on in the early throws of the game can be preferable to early foul trouble.
While the Wolves starters on Saturday all finished positive in +/-, the bench was woeful save for Norchad Omier, who kept his head above water with a +3 in his nine minutes. Under-contract players like Cody Williams and Isaiah Evans brought a lot of energy, but most of it signified little.
The fringe rotation players and camp invitees are in a tough spot. Their minutes, let alone actual contracts, are on the line. They need to prove something to the Wolves’ coaches and front office or at least present a good enough showing to get a flyer from another team. What this leads to is players who have played little to no NBA minutes struggling to balance their own looks with what is best for the team and playing with reckless hustle detrimental to the right play.
Meanwhile, the Knicks are flush with NBA veterans who know what it means to bring it on any given night, yet are nevertheless fighting for their careers. New to New York are:
NBA champion Bruce Brown
Serviceable backup center Andre Drummond
Former number two overall pick James Wiseman (and technically NBA champion)
Former lottery pick Ochai Agbaji
Eight year veteran center Drew Eubanks
Eight year veteran center Tony Bradley
In the second half, I expect the eager youth to hang with the veterans. That said, unless the Wolves starters build a big lead in the first half, it is not hard to envision the Wolves losing their minutes overall to the more experienced group.
Listen to Your Hart
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – OCTOBER 08: AJ Dybantsa #4 of the Washington Wizards looks to pass as Josh Hart #3 of the New York Knicks defends during the first half at Madison Square Garden on October 08, 2026 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images) | Getty Images
This one goes out to Jonathan Kuminga. I am of the belief that for Kuminga to really stick in the league and to earn the riches his agent has promised, he must model his game after Josh Hart. When asked about Hart, Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr said,
“Josh is just a winner. People ask ‘What position does he play?’ He plays winner. I don’t know what position he plays…At one point Spo turned to me and said ‘Some people get 50-50 balls; he gets the 30-70 balls”
I presume Hart will be guarding Kuminga. Barring any Freaky Friday situation that occurs after they collide going for a loose ball, I need him to be watching Hart’s game. How does Hart guard? How does he position to rebound? How does he use his activity to add that touch of chaos that prevents opposing teams from feeling they have a grip on the game?
In his last six years, Hart has averaged greater than seven rebounds and four assists a game. Being three inches taller and ten pounds heavier with generational athleticism, Kuminga has all the tools to pull in as many rebounds and a team chock-full of talent to kick out to if the easy shot isn’t there for him.
If JK can listen to his heart/Hart in the preseason and carry that through the regular season, the Wolves will not only have a bargain of a deal, but a meaningful shot at winning it all.
