BOSTON, MA - OCTOBER 10: Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics looks on during the game against the Philadelphia 76ers on October 10, 2026 at TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. 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 Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
For the first time in his professional career, Jayson Tatum wasn’t alongside longtime co-star Jaylen Brown.
It was different. Not bad. But different.
Instead of taking the floor with the other half of the Jays, Tatum shared it with 36-year-old Paul George — a future Hall of Famer nearing the final stage of his career. Tatum grew up watching George torch the Eastern Conference during his heyday and welcomed PG-13 with open arms as Boston thrashed the Sixers 144-106 in a preseason win at TD Garden on Saturday night.
“It’s kind of surreal, a little bit,” Tatum told reporters, per CLNS Media.
Change, most times, can be difficult. It can even be uncomfortable. But for Tatum, having George along for the ride this upcoming season is a change the 28-year-old superstar is looking forward to.
While Tatum began molding his identity as a young prospect coming out of Chaminade College Preparatory School in Creve Coeur, Missouri, he watched George closely from afar. By the time Tatum declared for the 2017 NBA Draft coming out of Duke, George’s name was repeatedly floated as a suitable comparison for Tatum.
“I was in high school, kind of modeling my game after him and watching film of him when I was in high school. In college, I remember I had to be the first player in college to wear PG-1s. I remember that. … That was 2016 or early 2017. So, like, I’ve always been a fan of PG and just to be able to be his teammate and learn from him, him to take on the role of being a mentor of assistance to myself and other guys, who’ve obviously watched him play for a long time, it’s cool to be a part of.”
It took a while for George to get going. He missed his first four shot attempts before knocking down an open top-of-the-key 3-pointer, extending Boston’s lead to 18 points late in the second quarter and forcing Philadelphia into a timeout. George immediately crouched down, looking directly at the parquet as if letting out a sigh of relief after finally getting on the board for the first time as a Celtic.
Although he finished with only 3-of-10 shooting for 13 points in 24 minutes, Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla already envisions what George will bring to the team this upcoming season.
“He’s got great instincts,” Mazzulla told reporters, per CLNS Media. “Great instincts. Great technique. Great positioning. It’s something he takes pride in, but I do think it’s very contagious.”
George grabbed five rebounds, tallied four assists, and recorded five steals in the win. Meanwhile, Brown joined Sixers teammates Joel Embiid, LeBron James, Anfernee Simons, and Tacko Fall in sitting out the preseason duel and instead watched Boston’s offensive clinic — supposedly from Philadelphia’s locker room — elsewhere.
Before the game, Brown warmed up alongside Tatum, albeit on the opposite side of the court. The scene reinforced what had already become official, marking the beginning of a new chapter in both their respective careers and the next page in the historic Celtics-Sixers rivalry.
It’s not only a challenge for the millions of Celtics fans still mourning Brown’s departure and struggling to bear the sight of him playing alongside LeBron. It’s an adjustment for Tatum, too, who spent years sharing the spotlight with Brown and is now Boston’s undisputed alpha.
For the first time in his NBA career, Tatum will enter a season without Brown by his side. The expectations, however, remain unchanged. They didn’t leave with Brown for Philadelphia.
Tatum is now set to share the floor with a player he grew up idolizing — one he’s eager to learn from as the Celtics enter a new era.
“I’m looking forward to it,” Tatum told reporters.
PORTLAND, OR - MARCH 27: Scoot Henderson #00 of the Portland Trail Blazers drives to the basket during the game against the Dallas Mavericks on March 27, 2026 at the Moda Center Arena in Portland, Oregon. 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 Cameron Browne/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
I really don’t have much hope for Portland this year.
That is not because the roster lacks talent. It is almost the opposite.
There might be too many talented players who need to do the same things.
Portland surprised everyone last season by winning 42 games and making the playoffs, and a huge reason why was that they could basically run the offense through Deni Avdija all game. His usage jumped to 28.5 percent, he became an All-Star and the Blazers finally had a clear offensive identity. Now Ja Morant and Damian Lillard are walking into that offense, while Jrue Holiday and Scoot Henderson are still on the roster.
Portland Trail Blazers: Over/Under 41.5 wins
Over: -110 Under: -115 To win NBA Championship: +7000 To win Western Conference: +3500 To win Northwest Division: +3300
Last season: 42-40, eighth in the West, lost in the first round
Key additions: Ja Morant, Damian Lillard returning from injury, Jeremy Sochan, Branden Carlson, Micah Potter Key losses: Jerami Grant, Kris Murray, Matisse Thybulle, Blake Wesley Coaching change: Micah Nori replaces Tiago Splitter.
My biggest problem is that I do not understand how the offense is supposed to work.
Morant needs the ball. Lillard has spent his entire career with the ball. Avdija just had the best season of his career because Portland finally gave him the ball. Scoot still needs developmental reps, and Holiday averaged 16.3 points and 6.1 assists last year and is still expecting a real role. Even Portland’s own preseason coverage has centered around how crowded this backcourt is and how many players need touches.
The spacing does not make me feel much better. Morant shot 23.5 percent from three last season. Avdija is much more effective getting downhill than standing around. If you put those two next to Clingan and another non-shooting big or wing, it becomes really easy to picture the same kind of offensive issues Dallas had when it tried to play Anthony Davis with a bunch of wings and limited shooting.
That is why I think Portland went away from what made last season work. Instead of continuing to build around Avdija, Clingan and Camara, they added another ball-dominant guard to a roster that already had too many guards. They may have added talent, but I am not convinced they made themselves a better basketball team.
I do love Nori, and he is probably the thing that gives me the most pause. If he figures out the hierarchy quickly, this could work. But asking a first-time head coach to balance Morant, Lillard, Avdija, Holiday, and Scoot while also maintaining the defense is a lot.
Portland slightly overachieved last season anyway. They went 42-40 despite finishing 20th in offensive rating with a negative net rating, and their expected record was closer to 40-42. I think they are talented enough to hang around the Play-In. I think last year was more their ceiling than the start of a huge jump.
MACAO, CHINA - OCTOBER 9: Kevin Durant #7 and Alperen Sengun #28 of the Houston Rockets high five during the game against the Dallas Mavericks as part of 2026 NBA China Games on October 9, 2026 in Macao, China at Venetian Arena. 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 Logan Riely/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
Houston Rockets vs. Dallas Mavericks
October 11, 2026
Location: The Venetian Arena Macao, China
TV:NBA TV and Space City Home Network Radio:KBME Sports Talk 790 / KLTN 102.9 (en español)
Probable Starting Lineups
Rockets: Fred Vanvleet, Amen Thompson, Jabari Smith Jr., Kevin Durant, Alperen Sengun
Mavericks: Kyrie Irving, Max Christie, Cooper Flag, P.J. Washington Jr. Dereck Lively II
The Rockets looked good in game one. The Mavs looked like, well, the Mavs. Let’s see if it continues.
NEW YORK, NY - OCTOBER 8: AJ Dybantsa #4 of the Washington Wizards drives to the basket during the game against the New York Knicks during a 2026 NBA Preseason game on October 8, 2026 at Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York. 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 Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
“ Hate” is a strong word and doesn’t quite fit here, but “teams that you root against the most” doesn’t have a great ring to it. This isn’t real hate, just sports hate. That said, the season is long, and if you’re an NBA head with a League Pass subscription, you sometimes need something to watch on nights the Jazz aren’t on. Here are the top five teams to hate-watch, or root against, this season. Some are for standings/playoff-race reasons, and some are for petty reasons, but both are valid.
5. Minnesota Timberwolves
I know, I know. This isn’t a team Jazz fans find easy to hate. Most Jazz fans root for Rudy Gobert, and now they can root for Cody Williams too. While those players are fun to root for, there are real reasons to hope this team loses. In the upcoming draft, Utah gets the second-best pick of Utah, Cleveland, and Minnesota. This means that Jazz fans should root against all these teams because the worse they do, the better it is for Utah come draft night in 2027. So, even though it’s fun to root for Rudy Gobert, who still has strong roots in Utah, it helps the Jazz in a small way each time they lose. This includes next year, when Utah will still be receiving picks from the Rudy Gobert trade.
4. Oklahoma City Thunder
This is for purely petty reasons. I have no problem admitting that I am a hater. I remember last season when the Oklahoma City Thunder tried to ruin the Jazz’s tank to keep their pick. Instead of letting other teams do the same, Sam Presti and the Oklahoma City Thunder tried to meddle, nay, snitch, on the Jazz for what they were doing. You can absolutely attribute the fine the Jazz received to the Thunder and the outside pressure not to continue the tank. That pressure might have folded lesser, weaker-minded front offices like the Kings or Pelicans, but the Jazz held strong, and it worked. Now, Sam Presti has to watch as the Jazz turned the pick that could have been his into Darryn Peterson, who will start competing for the playoffs and beyond for years to come. For that disrespect and act of war, I will enjoy every Thunder loss. Every time the cheap-o Thunder ownership forces the front office to trade off players to save a little cap, I’ll enjoy it. Every time the Thunder fall short, I’ll be there, absorbing the Presti tears like a hate-plant needing water.
3. Cleveland Cavaliers
Yes, Donovan Mitchell quit on the Jazz in the Dallas Mavericks series to force a trade he was pushing for behind closed doors. Yes, every time he loses a playoff series, it validates the trades made four years ago. Those are reasons alone to hate-watch the Cavaliers. But on top of that, the Jazz still have 1st-round picks and swaps from the Cavs for the Donovan Mitchell trade. Every loss helps the Utah Jazz in a real way. This upcoming season, Utah has the second-most favorable of the three picks in the UTA/MIN/CLE group. They have a first-round swap in 2028, plus the two most favorable picks in the UTA/MIN/CLE group in 2029. So, hate-away Jazz fans, because the Cavs losing helps Utah a lot.
2. Washington Wizards
This is for the most unhinged haters. We have nothing against the Wizards, really. The Jazz and Wizards are in two different conferences. Both have been seeking a cornerstone star, and both likely have one now. But because of the rumors this summer that the Wizards front office tried to stir up (the ones pushing Ace Bailey and the Jazz’s pick for the #1 pick), and because they drafted AJ Dybantsa regardless, it’s enough to create a real hate watch. Also, for some reason, as fans, you just want to see your pick play better than theirs. I don’t know why, I don’t understand it, but there’s been a lot of animosity between the Wizards and Jazz fanbases. Both want to say their player is better. On top of that, the BYU connection has created some fans internally who have rooted for AJ to somehow prove the Jazz should have traded up for him. All this adds up to me watching a lot of Wizards games and enjoying it when things don’t go well.
1. Los Angeles Lakers
The easiest choice of these. First off, it’s the Lakers. That is immediately a valid reason to have him the Lakers near the top. It’s in the Jazz fan charter or something. On top of that, they traded for a player who didn’t want to be here. Walker Kessler didn’t accept any offers from the Jazz that would have kept him here and made him a core part of this exciting Jazz core. The offers were more than fair and would have made him one of the highest-paid non-all-stars in the league, and at a position that typically doesn’t get overpaid. This is probably my own theory, but I’m guessing Kessler kept turning down Jazz offers until he knew the Jazz’s limit, then leveraged a move to the Lakers because Luka Doncic wanted him on the team. Once again, good on the Jazz for fleeceing the Lakers in the deal. Sure, you can be happy for Kessler getting paid, but I’m a real Utah Jazz fan and will happily root against the Lakers and any player who chose to move to that team. Aside from the Jazz winning, nothing would give me more satisfaction than a dissapointing Lakers and Walker Kessler season.
Oct 10, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Jordan Goodwin (23) shoots over San Antonio Spurs forward Harrison Barnes (40) in the first half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
On a rainy October night in Downtown Phoenix, the Suns locked in and played one of their most complete games of the preseason.
The Suns are now 1-2 and have two more preseason games left on the schedule before their season opener on October 21st. Phoenix was without Devin Booker and Miles Bridges in this one.
Luke Kennard led all scorers with 20 points on 8-of-15 shooting, including 4-of-10 shooting from deep. He also chipped in with 5 rebounds and 4 assists in 25 minutes. Jalen Green scored 18 points, and Dillon Brooks added 15. Overall, it was another strong showing from the starting unit, even if it was a different starting five this time.
Khaman Maluach got his first start of the preseason, and certainly took advantage of it. He finished with 10 points, 15 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 block, and 1 steal on 4-for-9 shooting in 23 minutes. Man Man finished plus-14.
The Suns decided to start Luke Kennard and Ryan Dunn in place of Devin Booker and Miles Bridges. The original plan was for guys not to play in all 5 games, so this was the game off for those two, per Jordan Ott.
Khaman Maluach also drew his first start of the preseason with the Suns going up against Wembanyama’s length. He pulled in 10 boards in his first 11 minutes of action, making the most of his time on the glass.
Luke Kennard let it fly early and often, and showed that he is indeed far more than just a shooter. He was drilling threes, but also attacking closeouts, getting to his spots and cutting without the ball.
Phoenix led after the opening quarter, 35-25. The Suns were actually getting “out-tempoed” in fastbreak points, with the Spurs scoring 15 compared to their 4 in fastbreak points. But it did not feel like it, because they were scoring off turnovers and generating plenty of second-chance points.
Luke Kennard certainly took the “shoot it more” to heart in this one, as he aggressively looked to get his shot both off the dribble
Second Half
Wembanyama did not start the second half initially, but checked in one minute and four seconds into the quarter.
Maluach had a nice offensive board over Wemby and a put-back two. The very next possession, after he ripped down his 12th rebound of the game, he finished at the rim, going right at Wemby… again! Then he drained a three.
Victor Wembanyama misses a 3-pointer, and Khaman Maluach shows him how it's done, hitting a triple (with a replay).
Maluach's jumper looked better in the Summer League, and now? It looks even smoother. pic.twitter.com/FkWnDzPnGw
It was the Khaman Maluach show to open the third. The Suns outscored the Spurs by five in the 3rd quarter to extend their lead to 12 points.
Brooks and Green each went for about 9 minutes of action before heading to the bench for the remainder of the game, handing the rest to the bench crew.
After three, Phoenix led 85-73.
In the fourth quarter, there was a whole lot of Jamaree Bouyea, Haywood Highsmith, and Rasheer Fleming. We even got a Koby Brea and Koa Peat sighting!
Then it got to the sloppy “garbage time” part of preseason, even by preseason standards. The Suns held on despite a late-game run from the Spurs to cut the lead down to four with 12 seconds left.
Up Next
Phoenix will travel to San Antonio to face this same Spurs squad for Game 4 of the preseason on Wednesday. We shall see you all then!
MIAMI, FL - OCTOBER 10: Bones Hyland #8 of the Minnesota Timberwolves moves 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
With the Minnesota Timberwolves and Miami Heat tipping off their regular season against one another in just eleven days, Chris Finch and Erik Spoelstra decided that revealing their cards by playing their main rotation players was too big of a risk. So instead of Anthony Edwards and LaMelo Ball vs Giannis Antetokounmpo and Bam Adebayo, we got Joan Beringer and Bones Hyland vs Pelle Larsson and Simone Fontecchio. And you know what? It turned out to be a pretty fun game!
For the Wolves, this meant a night off for their starting group and Ayo Dosunmo. With the rest bench crew getting some extra run tonight, it was a great chance for players fighting for minutes to make an extra impression on the coaches. Who was able to do it? Well, read on!
Two Stats That Defined The Game:
+75: This was the combined plus/minus stat from the starting group. Hyland (+16), Shannon (+17), Clark (+17), Lyles (+9) and Beringer (+16) all put together some solid performances. Considering those are the projected next five on the rotation, that matters a lot more than the deeper bench struggles that let Miami back in the game before Antonion Reeves’ eventual game winner with 2.3 left on the clock.
+9: Fast break point advantage for the Wolves. A lot of the other counting stats ended up falling close together (not surprising in a one point game), but fast break points are going to be a stat that is worth keeping a close eye on all season as this team’s identity continues to form into a more up-pace unit.
Game Awards
Big Ticket Award: Joan Beringer
The Big Ticket Award is named after the franchise GOAT and is given the best player on the floor for the night. Tonight Beringer flashed all of those skills that make him such a tantalizing prospect. Dunks, monster blocks, running and finishing in transition, and even some work driving from the top of the key and drawing contact. He finished the night with a stuffed stat line:
Even though it was backups for both teams, there was still requisite NBA talent on the floor and Beringer, quite literally, leapt off the screen with his play on both ends. While the Miami broadcast crew may have struggled mightily with his name (yes, more on that later), they couldn’t help but gush as he began to stack impact play after impact play. If Beringer can continue to bottle those moments while limiting the cheap fouls, there will be a whole lot more gushing from opposing broadcast teams as they begin to get to know the young Frenchman.
The “Quick! To the Well!” Award: Bones Hyland
Cause he’s a bucket. Get it?
Bones could have easily taken home the Big Ticket award tonight as he was absolutely lights out tonight shooting, finishing the night with 23 points on 6-9, including a scorching 5-6 from deep. Performances like this are going to put a lot of pressure on the coaching staff to find regular rotation minutes for him as it’s an interesting push and pull with TJ Shannon presumably taking more of the backup point-of-attack duties.
What was clear tonight is that Bones is a player that knows his game and has full confidence. And while I don’t want to read too much into a game against backups and fringe NBA guys, his defense was noticeably solid tonight. He moved his feet and stayed in front of his man, never overreacting to quick moves or hesitation dribbles like so many do with less experience.
The “I Miss You So Much It Hurts Sometimes” Award: Timberwolves Broadcast Crew
That’s right – an award give to people who were across the country! Look, it’s a preseason game on an opposing team’s broadcast – there are going to be mistakes. But between the “Berh-Ann-Gee”s and “Jaden Clark”s, this was just another broadcast crew that is a reminder about how good we as Wolves fans have it. One of the best parts of the transition to the regular season will be to get to hear Jim Pete and (insert partner of the night) voices again.
Empty the notebook:
Most interesting to me about TJ Shannon’s night was his shooting a couple of midrange jumpers with Miami defenders hanging a bit deeper off screens. Considering the… let’s say consistency… of his hard drives to the left, that midrange (and 3-point) shooting is going to be an important counterpunch. Finished with a nice 19-6-4 stat line on 8/16 shooting.
After a couple encouraging preseason performances, Cody Williams had his worst night of this young season with a 1-7, -17 performance.
Isaiah Evans flashed some good! A couple nice hustle defensive plays (a weak side block and tip away in transition) and knocking down three triples.
Isaiah Evans flashed some bad! Blown by a handful of times on defense and turned the ball over under increased ball pressure. Such is the life of a rookie.
Zyon Pullin continues to impress. He was the go-to guy down the stretch, finishing the game with 22 points on 7-9 shooting.
Antonio Reeves! A game-winning floater just like Chris Finch drew up.
Up Next:
The Wolves hop on a plane and fly north to the concrete jungle to visit Karl-Anthony Towns and the New York Knicks on Monday, 10/12 at 6:30pm CT. The game will be on NBA TV.
PHILADELPHIA, PA - OCTOBER 10: VJ Edgecombe #77 of the Philadelphia 76ers drives to the basket during the game against the Boston Celtics on October 10, 2026 at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 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 Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
Preseason Bell Ringer rankings:
Jaylen Brown – 1 LeBron James – 1
The Sixers got off to a 10-2 start against the Celtics, but things looked bleak by halftime.
The Sixers were without Joel Embiid, Jaylen Brown, LeBron James, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope due to rest. Dominick Barlow (back), Anfernee Simons (hamstring), Adem Bona (foot) and Tacko Fall (hip) are still nursing injuries.
We saw flashes of the Vj-Maxx connection early in the first, as Tyrese Maxey fed VJ Edgecombe for a transition finish and corner three. Amidst the Celtics’ barrage, and Sixers lenient defense, there were Bell Ringer-worthy performances.
He blazed past him on a drive just seconds into the second quarter. A few minutes later, Edgecombe took Pritchard in the post with a beautiful fadeaway baseline jumper.
He is looking more comfortable finishing through contact and strong at the rim.
Walker looked great in all facets, and is earning himself more minutes this preseason. He battled on the offensive glass and created an easy oppurtunity for himself early.
He showcased an ability to create offense and make quick decisions with a nice pass to a cutting Dean Wade during the Sixers’ 10-2 run to begin the game.
Philon’s shot looks very good, but the question will be if he can survive defensively. The rookie showcased his playmaking potential all night including a smooth bounce pass to Walker in the third.
It may be hard to imagine given the star-studded roster, but Wade will be a fan-favorite by the end of the year. He does all of the little things — sets solid screens, hits the three, can battle in the post, and was fighting for rebounds with Celtics that were considerably taller than him.
PHILADELPHIA, PA - OCTOBER 10: Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics dribbles the ball during the game against the Philadelphia 76ers on October 10, 2026 at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 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 Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
Payton Pritchard’s 25 points and Jayson Tatum’s 23 led the Boston Celtics to a dominant 144-106 home win over the Jaylen Brown-less Philadelphia 76ers in the C’s second preseason game of the 2026-27 season.
The game provided first glimpses of Paul George and Mitchell Robinson playing in green, and marked Derrick White, Jayson Tatum, Neemias Queta, Payton Pritchard, and Sam Hauser’s return to action. All seven sat out of Thursday’s preseason opener against Cleveland.
Boston’s starters included White, Jordan Walsh, Tatum, George, and Robinson. Hauser, Queta, and Pritchard came off the bench for their first minutes of the year.
Ron Harper Jr. was out with right shoulder soreness and Devin Carter, who starred in the game against Cleveland, was out with an illness.
The Sixers deployed a starting lineup of Tyrese Maxey, V.J. Edgecombe, Justin Edwards, Dean Wade, and Jabari Walker. Joel Embiid, LeBron James, Brown and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope were inactive for Philly.
The Celtics’ starters looked clunky in their first minutes together, and couldn’t get much going early. Tatum and George both missed a couple midrange shot attempts and Tatum missed Robinson on an early alley-oop attempt. It was Edgecombe who broke the ice with an and-1 reverse layup, and Philly took an early 8-0 lead while Boston was still back-rimming every shot it took.
Tatum was passing well early, regardless of all the missed shots. He got it to White and Walsh for a couple open three-point attempts, but they bricked both. Robinson finally put the C’s on the scoreboard with a putback dunk, and White scored Boston’s second bucket of the game. George clunked another midrange shot attempt, but got fouled and hit 1 of 2 free throws for his first points as a Celtic.
Boston didn’t get it going until about halfway through the first quarter, when shots started falling. Queta and Hauser were the first substitutions of the game and injected some life into the offense, but JT also kicked into gear. He got a dunk off a George steal for his first points of the game, made a nice pass to a slashing Queta for an easy bucket, and hit a couple three-pointers to cut Philly’s lead to 16-15 with less than 3 minutes to go in the opening frame.
Over those final minutes, JT hit a tough midrange shot and hit a cutting Hauser with a clean dime to secure the Celtics’ first lead of the game, 19-18. By the time Pritchard ended the quarter with a couple free throws, Boston had a 24-20 lead over Philadelphia.
The Celtics maintained their momentum from the end of the first quarter with some hot shooting and hard rebounding in the second.
Robinson opened the frame and was active banging down low, but the whole team was active on the boards. One offensive rebound resulted in a Pritchard three-pointer, and Robinson put another back for a bucket of his own.
Baylor Scheierman and Hugo Gonzalez also provided some good energy off the bench. Scheierman made a nice pass that resulted in a Hugo Gonzalez bucket, then got a steal on the very next play. Gonzalez drew an offensive foul on one play and knocked down an open three-pointer soon after to put the Celtics up 38-28 four minutes into the quarter.
While the first quarter was close, the second quarter was a one-sided bloodbath.
Pritchard (who scored 11 points in the quarter) got hot and hit a few three-pointers to keep Boston rolling, JT came back in to play the last half of the second quarter, and George — who was racking up steals and deflections left and right — finally got his shot to fall.
The C’s really started to pull away in the latter half of the second quarter. Hauser got a steal and passed it forward to JT for an easy transition dunk. The next play down, White got another steal and got it to George, who hit an open three-pointer that forced the Sixers to call a timeout in an attempt to stop the bleeding. But, by that point, Boston was already up 53-35.
George hit another three-pointer a few minutes later to secure a 21-point Boston lead with less than a minute to go in the half. Boston ended the half with a 63-42 lead and won the quarter 39-22.
Pritchard led the C’s in first-half scoring with 15 points and 4 assists. Tatum had 14 points and George racked up 11 points, 5 rebounds and 4 steals.
Edgecombe led Philly with 14 points, 3 assists and 4 steals.
The second half opened with a couple ugly missed free throws from Robinson, but Walsh put on a show as the C’s kept their collective foot on the Sixers’ neck. He got a slick block that resulted in a White three-pointer, then got a three-pointer of his own while capitalizing on Robinson’s gravity down low.
Philadelphia seemed to increase its effort on the court, but it didn’t make too much of a difference early in the third quarter. White got a couple buckets, Walsh got another three-pointer, and Tatum hit a three-pointer to put the C’s up 85-61 with about five-and-a-half minutes to go in the quarter. George got his fifth steal of the game on the next play and dunked it to extend the lead even further.
Despite the big lead, the Celtics didn’t take their foot off the gas. Philly’s shots were no longer falling, as Boston’s defensive activity stifled the Sixers’ offense, but everything was going right for the C’s. Tatum made a nice underhanded pass to Pritchard for a deep three-pointer, then got a steal on the next play. After a Gonzalez layup and another Pritchard 3, Boston had a 31-point lead with less than 2 minutes to go in the third quarter.
With the help of another three-pointer — this time from Hauser — and a couple Pritchard free throws, the C’s ended the quarter with a 104-69 lead.
With the win all but secured, the Celtics opened the final frame with Pritchard, Hauser, Scheierman, Gonzalez and Garza on the floor. Garza immediately racked up two offensive rebounds — one off a miss of his own — and made a putback layup for the first points of the quarter.
The squad kept up Boston’s torrid pace on both ends of the court. Garza got another putback layup and Scheierman got a couple of steals, which resulted in three-pointers for both Hauser and himself.
After the C’s took a 124-88 lead with 6:52 to go, Boston subbed in Dillon Mitchell and Chris Cenac Jr. But the fun didn’t end there. Gonzalez hit another three-pointer and Mitchell made a layup soon after. Cenac got a couple easy buckets, including a strong dunk which gave the Celtics a 138-94 lead with 3 minutes to go in the contest.
With the help of Gonzalez’s fourth three-pointer of the night (he hit all four attempts), the Celtics finished with a 144-106 win — the highest scoring preseason win in franchise history.
Tatum, who didn’t play a minute of the fourth quarter, ended the game with 23 points on 47.4% shooting from the field and 40% shooting from deep, 5 rebounds, 4 assists and a steal.
Pritchard had 25 points, 7 assists and 4 rebounds.
George finished his first game as a Celtic with 13 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists, and 5 steals.
Robinson had 6 points, 5 rebounds and 1 assist.
Gonzalez, White, and Hauser finished with 17, 15, and 11 points, respectively.
On the other end of the court, Edgecombe finished with 19 points, 4 assists and 4 steals.
Overall, Boston dominated the Sixers on the boards, 70-41, including an 18-7 difference in offensive rebounds, and put up 11 more shot attempts than Philadelphia.
The Celtics’ next preseason game will be against the Charlotte Hornets at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 14, at home in TD Garden. The game will be broadcast on NBC Sports Boston and locally live-streamed via Peacock.
Boston will face Philly again in its preseason finale on Friday, Oct. 16, before the regular season begins with a road game against the Detroit Pistons on Tuesday, Oct. 20.
WASHINGTON, DC - OCTOBER 10: AJ Dybantsa #4 of the Washington Wizards drives to the basket during the game against the Detroit Pistons on October 10, 2026 at Capital One Arena in Washington, DC. 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 Stephen Gosling/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
The Washington Wizards’ clash with the Detroit Pistons on Saturday was arguably one of the greatest preseason contests in franchise history. The Wizards’ 114-108 overtime win at Capital One Arena had everything fans could have asked for.
The first quarter was virtually every Wizards supporter’s wet dream for the upcoming season. Trae Young and AJ Dybantsa were throwing endless lobs to Anthony Davis and Alex Sarr. DC’s defense turned into offense at every opportunity, with outlet passes leading to 19 fastbreak points in the opening period alone.
Tre Johnson also caught fire to close the first with three triples to help build a 40-20 lead after the first 12 minutes of action.
The Washington Express lost some steam in the second quarter as the Wizards went nearly four full minutes without scoring. The first bucket of the quarter was emphatic: Dybantsa served up another lob dunk to Sarr.
Dybantsa also showed off some transition wizardry with a behind-the-back move to get past three Pistons defenders for an And-1. Dybantsa and Johnson each had 12, while Davis and Kyshawn George had 10 apiece as Washington led 56-50 at the half.
Trae Young scored his first and only field goal of the game to start the third quarter, then got ejected minutes later following an altercation with Daniss Jenkins. He left the game with 2 points, 8 assists, and 5 turnovers as the Wizards’ lead shrank to 80-78 through three quarters.
Brian Keefe rode the third-stringers in the fourth quarter as the Pistons took a 94-87 lead with five minutes to go, in what was shaping up to be a loss. That’s when Will Riley, Justin Champagnie, and Felix Okpara shined.
Okpara hit a three-pointer, then put a Piston on a poster in back-to-back possessions. The game went into overtime, where the Wizards came out on top 114-108.
PHILADELPHIA, PA - OCTOBER 10: VJ Edgecombe #77 of the Philadelphia 76ers drives to the basket during the game against the Boston Celtics on October 10, 2026 at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 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 Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
Jaylen Brown made his return to Boston Saturday, but we’ll have to wait until the regular season to see him face off against his former team.
Brown, LeBron James, Joel Embiid and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope were all out as the Sixers took on Paul George, making his preseason debut, and the Celtics Saturday night. With Boston using its regular rotation, the shorthanded Sixers got crushed 144-106.
VJ Edgecombe was sensational, dropping 19 points (6-of-11 from the field, 2-of-5 from three) and recording four assists and four steals. Tyrese Maxey struggled from the field as he found himself in early foul trouble and saw a lot of bodies throughout the night. He was 2-of-10 for eight points. Jabari Walker, who continued his impressive preseason, pitched in 14 points and five rebounds. Rookie Labaron Philon, Jr. impressed with 14 points (4-of-8 from three) and seven assists.
Anfernee Simons (hamstring), Dominick Barlow (back), Adem Bona (foot) and Tacko Fall (hip) all remained out for the Sixers.
Only one more of these next Friday back at the crib before they start counting.
Here are some takeaways from the night.
First quarter
Edgecombe pulled up confidently from three in transition, but missed. Maxey found him in the corner and Edgecombe finally buried his first triple of the preseason. Sandwiched in between was a gorgeous up-and-under, and-one lefty finish.
I loved the Dean Wade signing when they made it. I love it even more watching Wade through three preseason games. Some guys just know how to play … and too often those guys haven’t been members of the Sixers.
Jabari Walker is having a terrific preseason. It’s no small task to go up against a true bruising center like Mitchell Robinson. Walker acquitted himself quite well. He’s playing himself into a role.
Another game with an early scare. Edgecombe was flying down the floor in transition. As he left the ground in the paint and passed it to the corner to Rayan Rupert, he went down hard. He stayed down for a moment, but eventually got up — and looked mad he didn’t get a whistle. He exited the game briefly, but was back in before the period ended.
With so many guys out, Labaron Philon, Rayan Rupert and Dillon Jones all got first-quarter minutes.
Philon made yet another beautiful move into the paint and saw a floater go in and out, a theme for the rookie so far this preseason. His miss was rebounded and kicked back out to him and he buried a three. Like the moxie from the kid.
Turnovers were a big issue in Brooklyn. The Sixers had seven in the first quarter Saturday. Maxey was just 1-of-6 from the field to start as he was aggressively trapped (because Joe Mazzulla is a crazy person). Edgecombe led the team with six points, going 2-of-5. Neither team shot the ball well, but the Celtics took a 24-20 lead after one
Second quarter
Edgecombe kicked off the quarter with a beautiful drive and finish. His improved handle and finishing have been on full display. This is a star in the making.
Wade started the period playing as the five against Robinson. Wade held his own when they dumped it down to Robinson in the post, forcing a miss.
Justin Edwards got the start tonight. Unfortunately, his rough preseason continued. He looks indecisive and is struggling to contain anyone defensively.
Don’t like to make officiating a thing (especially in the preseason), but my goodness, the Sixers are not getting a kind whistle.
The Sixers are playing multiple Exhibit 10 signees and a two-way player against Boston’s rotation guys, so the score got ugly, but it also gave Edgecombe a chance to cook — and boy, did he cook. He’s been incredibly impressive in the preseason.
Philon with a middie fadeaway in Derrick White’s eye. Fearless. He then made a beautiful read and found Rupert in the opposite corner. Rupert bricked the three. Rupert is another guy having a rough preseason.
Maxey just blocked the shit out of George, who’s having a brutal night. Really great help defense by Saint Thomas. Thomas has actually looked decent in limited minutes.
Tyrese Maxey battles with former Sixer Paul George in the post and finishes with a nasty block
Another brutal turnover from Edwards, then one by Edgecombe. The Sixers had 12 in the first half. That paired with the Celtics starting to hit shots and the score got ugly.
The Sixers had a couple beautiful possessions that led to two threes — both with assists from Wade. This guy is such good connector.
Again, it was Boston’s regulars against a thin Sixers lineup. The Celtics took a 63-42 lead into the half. Edgecombe was the bright spot, leading the Sixers with 14 points, three assists and four steals.
Third quarter
Unsurprisingly, no Maxey to start the second half. Wade also sat after halftime.
Walker picked up his fifth foul 15 seconds into the half. Suboptimal considering where the Sixers are with the center position right now.
Philon made an absolutely filthy bounce pass to Walker in transition for an and-one. Walker buried another three on the next offensive possession. He’s hoopin’.
Looks like Edgecombe’s night is done midway through third. Can’t say enough about how he played Saturday and how he’s looked overall in the preseason.
And another beauty of a dime from Philon to Walker. This kid is fun to watch.
Yeah, this is a bloodbath. Sixers are playing two two-way guys, two Exhibit 10 guys and a rookie. The Celtics still have a lineup full of rotation guys.
Fourth quarter
Four straight threes for the Sixers — two each from Philon and Edwards. Again, the Celtics still have regulars out there, so Philon is doing this against legit NBA competition. He looks like he can play right away — and he might need to depending on Simons’ health.
SAN ANTONIO, TX -MARCH 19: Victor Wembanyama #1 of the San Antonio Spurs is surrounded by teammates after his game winning shot against Phoenix Suns at Frost Bank Center on March 19, 2026 in San Antonio, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ronald Cortes/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Welcome to the Game Thread. Veterans of the Game Thread know how we do things around here, but for all you newbies we have a few rules. Our community guidelines apply and basically say be cool, no personal attacks, don’t troll and don’t swear too much. The rule against trolling also applies to members of this site that visit other fan sites.
Bad news people. The Spurs started their season on Thursday night with a loss. But, in preseason, the scores don’t count, so was it really a loss? The Spurs starters looked really good for about a quarter and then they took the rest of the game off, even though some of them were still on the court for part of the rest of the game. David Jones Garcia looked really interesting in the second half, and Tarris Reed had a pretty good outing, although he’s probably going to have a bit of adjustment learning to play against NBA bigs. Not exactly unexpected for a rookie. There were some guys who saw the court in against Atlanta who aren’t expected to make the team, and their minutes made it fairly obvious the reasons why that is so. Players like Taelon Peter and Jon Elmore are guy who are supremely talented basketball players, but not elite enough to look good against NBA talent. It’s a rough business.
Tonight they face a Phoenix squad with NBA super villain Dillon Brooks who is shooting 60% on three-point shots in the preseason (on a small sample size). If he actually becomes a good shooter, that’s going to be a reason to hate him even more. But with all of the shooters on the Suns, this is a team that should be interesting this year, and they could be in the playoff mix in the west. It will be an interesting matchup for the preseason Spurs, at least for a quarter or so, until the G-League players take over and make it hard to watch. It’s a late tipoff, so you may want to watch this game on delay and skip over the boring parts. Sorry, I’m not doing a good job of selling this, am I?
This game is on DAZN, so hook up your apps, or log in on your Smart TV. Let’s GO Spurs!!! For at least most of the first half.
Game Prediction:
Victor Wembanyama reads a book on the bench during the second half.
San Antonio Spurs at Phoenix Suns (Preseason) October 10, 2026 | 9:30 PM CT Streaming: DAZN, League Pass TV: DAZN Reminder: It is against site policy to post links to illegal streams in the comments.
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 07: Devin Booker #15 of the Phoenix Suns looks on against the Chicago Bulls during the first half of the preseason game at the United Center on October 07, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Daniel Bartel/Getty Images) | Getty Images
A good old-fashioned San Antonio vs. Phoenix (preseason) showdown. Let’s do this!
If you don’t have the SB Nation app, it comes in real handy for Game Threads. Just sayin’!
If you haven’t downloaded the SB Nation app yet, now is the time.
Game Threads are so much better in the app, and with Suns basketball back, you’re going to want to be there with us!
Lakers coach JJ Redick raised eyebrows ahead of media day when he said the Lakers could become a championship-level team this season.
Well, the franchise’s superstar echoes that sentiment.
When did Luka Doncic begin thinking that?
“Since the first day,” Doncic said at Lakers practice Saturday. “That simple. Since the first day everybody came together in Slovenia — except Cam [Carr] couldn’t make [it] — I believed that we can win a championship.”
Doncic should feel that way. He had his fingerprints all over the team’s roster moves last summer.
The 26-year-old Doncic wanted to play alongside Austin Reaves, whom the Lakers signed to a four-year, $180 million contract. the richest contract in NBA history for a player who went undrafted.
Doncic wanted Walker Kessler to be his franchise center. The Lakers went on to acquire him in a sign-and-trade deal from Utah, giving up two unprotected first-round picks and two first-round pick swaps, signing him to a four-year, $130 million contract.
The Lakers added nine new players this offseason, completely overhauling their roster after they were swept out of the second round of the playoffs by the Thunder in May.
Doncic was sidelined all of last postseason because of a strained left hamstring he suffered during a regular-season game against the Thunder on April 2.
In an interview with Sports Illustrated, Doncic recently acknowledged he regretted playing through the injury when it first began to bother him in the second quarter of that game. After all, he thought the soaring Lakers who had gone on a 16-2 run had a chance to compete for the Larry O’Brien trophy back then, too.
“Obviously, I thought we had a team that could compete for a championship, so it was kind of disappointed, kind of let the team down,” Doncic said. “So it’s definitely motivating for this season.”
Los Angeles Lakers forward/guard Luka Dončić, right, shoots as Sacramento Kings forward Precious Achiuwa defends during the first half of a preseason NBA basketball game Friday, Oct. 9, 2026, in Los Angeles. AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill
Doncic wants to win his first championship and catapult the 17-time championship Lakers back atop the league after they failed to get past the second round of the playoffs the last three years. They’ve gotten younger. They’ve gotten faster.
And after LeBron James left for the 76ers in free agency last summer, the Lakers unequivocally became his team.
He has taken that responsibility very seriously. For the first time in his career, Doncic hosted a minicamp in Slovenia in August, paying for the entire team to come to his home country so it could build chemistry ahead of the season.
Apparently, his investment paid off.
When they arrived and began scrimmaging, Doncic immediately began believing the Lakers could be special.
So special, that he believes they have a chance to hang their 18th banner.
PHOENIX, AZ - APRIL 27: Dillon Brooks #3 of the Phoenix Suns drives to the basket during the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder during Round One Game Four of the 2026 NBA Playoffs on April 27, 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
Lights. Camera. Action.
After nearly six months, the Phoenix Suns are set to play their first game tonight at the Mortgage Matchup Center since their Game 4 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder in the First Round of the Western Conference Playoffs last season. At 7:30 Arizona Time, they’ll tango against the San Antonio Spurs in their preseason home opener.
For at least 43 times over the next six-plus months, there will be Suns basketball played in Arizona. Two preseason and 41 regular season games.
While the last game they played at home ended their season, the team had many unforgettable victories on their home court.
25-16 in Phoenix a season ago, many of the team’s most memorable moments came at the Mortgage Matchup Center during the 2025-2026 campaign, including Jalen Green’s buzzer beater, Devin Booker’s game-winner against the NBA’s best regular-season team, Grayson Allen’s franchise-record 10-three contest and many other exciting comebacks and game-winners.
The Suns also clinched their spot in the Western Conference Playoff bracket in Phoenix last year, beating the Golden State Warriors in the 8/9 Play-In game, returning to the playoffs after a year’s absence, officially surprising the many who didn’t expect them to be in the top-eight of the conference.
Nov 21, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Collin Gillespie (12) prepares to take the game winning shot against Minnesota Timberwolves guard Donte DiVincenzo (0) in the second half of an NBA Cup game at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Whether it’s getting to watch Devin Booker and the squad, saying hi to The Gorilla, or munching down on any of the items from the $2 menu, what is your favorite part of going to Suns games?
The Sixers’ third preseason contest was a blowout affair.
The Celtics cruised to a 144-106 exhibition victory Saturday night over the Sixers at TD Garden. The Sixers fell to 1-2 in preseason play.
Celtics star Jayson Tatum scored 23 points and Payton Pritchard poured in 25. VJ Edgecombe had 19 points, four assists and four steals for the Sixers.
After using their full starting five Thursday in a loss to the Nets, the Sixers’ absences included LeBron James, Jaylen Brown and Joel Embiid. Adem Bona (left foot sprain), Dominick Barlow (back) and Anfernee Simons (hamstring) were among the other players on the sidelines.
The Sixers’ fourth and final preseason game will also be against the Celtics. They’ll host Boston next Friday night.
Here are observations on their loss Saturday:
Walker starts at center
The Sixers started Tyrese Maxey, Edgecombe, Justin Edwards, Dean Wade and Jabari Walker.
Edgecombe had a bright first few minutes, scoring a reverse and-one layup and canning a three-pointer to give the Sixers an 8-0 lead. Meanwhile, the Celtics missed their first seven field goals.
The 6-foot-7 Walker played center and faced a pair of 7-footers in Mitchell Robinson and Neemias Queta.
Walker had some nice early moments, including a put-back layup, although he accumulated three fouls in his first 10 minutes. He posted 14 points on 6-for-11 shooting and five rebounds. Walker swished a corner three-pointer in the second quarter and continued to fire away from long range. He’s now 5 for 13 (38.5 percent) beyond the arc in the preseason.
The 6-9 Wade moved to center after Walker took a seat. Robinson beat Wade to an offensive rebound in the second quarter and then converted an and-one lay-in.
Not every team has multiple 7-footers in its rotation like the Celtics and Robinson is a tremendous offensive rebounder who habitually wins individual battles against centers of all sizes. Still, the Sixers are simply small at backup center currently with the injuries to Bona and Ariel Hukporti (right Achilles tendon tear).
Not the finest night for Sixers’ offense
Maxey had an uncharacteristically rough preseason start.
He began 0 for 4 from the floor. Maxey committed his second foul of the first quarter when he made contact with Paul George on his former teammate’s fadeaway jumper attempt. In his first game since being traded to Boston, George had 13 points on 3-for-10 shooting, five steals, five rebounds and four assists.
Maxey wasn’t the only cold Sixer. The team dropped to 4 for 21 from three-point range on an Edwards air ball.
Outside of all the misses, the Sixers’ offense was sloppy and lacked fluidity. Following a 21-turnover game against the Nets, the team had 13 giveaways in Saturday’s first half. The Celtics’ advantage swelled over 20 points before halftime.
Naturally, the Sixers will expect much better from their offense once they’re closer to full strength and the games count.
More useful reps for Philon
Labaron Philon Jr. featured for the Sixers’ young second unit.
As he had in Brooklyn, Philon hit a three soon after checking in. For any rookie coming off the bench, being locked in immediately after entering games is much easier said than done. Philon comes across as a player who has no issues with confidence and focus once his name is called.
The Alabama product started the second half and got useful on-ball reps in Maxey’s place. He logged 25 minutes and had 14 points and seven assists.
Philon’s efficiency had been subpar through two and a half preseason games, but he knocked down two long-range jumpers early in the fourth quarter and is clearly capable of getting hot. The 22nd overall pick has shot 9 for 30 (30 percent) from the field and 5 for 15 (33.3 percent) from three-point territory so far in his first NBA preseason.
