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DALLAS, TEXAS - SEPTEMBER 25: P.J. Washington #25 of the Dallas Mavericks poses for portraits at Mavericks Media Day at American Airlines Center on September 25, 2026 in Dallas, Texas. 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 GettyImages License Agreement. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images) | Getty Images
It feels like it was eons ago that the Dallas Mavericks traded for PJ Washington from the Charlotte Hornets, with the intention way back in 2024 of building a championship roster around Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving. Washington exceeded expectations, starting for the Mavericks in their NBA Finals run, averaging 13.0 points and 6.6 rebounds per game while guarding the opposing team’s best forward. Most notably, he shot 23-of-49 (47%!) in the Mavericks’ second-round series win over the Oklahoma City Thunder that year.
Things have changed drastically since Washington’s arrival. Doncic was infamously shipped away to the Los Angeles Lakers in the dead of night on that fateful night in February 2025. Doncic’s ability to get his teammates open shots allowed Washington to see the most unguarded shot opportunities of his career, and he knocked them down at a more efficient rate than he has since Doncic’s departure. Eventually, the architects of Washington’s rise to prominence on the roster followed Doncic out the door in Big D. Nico Harrison’s early-season firing last year was followed by Jason Kidd’s departure after the resulting implosion of the 2025-26 season.
Under new coaching and management, the Mavericks are trying to build a competitive team around rising star and Rookie of the Year Cooper Flagg. Despite all of the changes in Dallas, Washington has remained one of the few constants. He averaged 14.2 points, 6.0 rebounds, and roughly two stocks (steals + blocks) in 56 games last season. The Mavericks will have to evaluate Washington’s role with the organization this season as they look to build for the future.
Big question
In Washington’s two and a half years as a Maverick, he has come off the bench in just five of his 147 appearances in the regular season for Dallas. He plays physically, and his ability to defend and bring the ball up the court aligns with Masai Ujiri’s favorite player archetype: defensive forwards who aren’t good shooters but can play multiple roles. His strength and toughness can also give Dallas a different look, sliding him over to a small-ball center in certain lineups. Though Washington checks a lot of boxes for new head coach Dusty May, May admits that he is still evaluating who will join Flagg and Irving in the starting lineup. He has also added that Washington is “in the mix” to hear his name called as a part of the Mavericks’ first-five and has praised him in recent training camp practices.
Where does Washington fall in the pecking order for Dallas? The Mavericks are a frontcourt-heavy team on paper that has only added to their forward depth in the offseason, with the addition of Morez Johnson Jr., Santi Aldama and Tobi Lawal, who will join Washington, Flagg, Naji Marshall, Daniel Gafford, and Dereck Lively in the frontcourt. That’s a lot of guys fighting for playing time.
To compound things, does Washington fit the Mavericks’ timeline around 19-year-old Flagg? Marc Stein reported that the Mavericks are open to offers for Washington since their roster is stacked with forwards. The Mavericks will be faced with the question of where Washington fits into the team’s long-term plans as they look to build towards contention.
Best case scenario
The good news is that with Irving’s return, Flagg’s hopeful sophomore leap, and an influx of forwards, Washington’s role should be the simplest it’s been since he played alongside Doncic. With Irving and Flagg handling most of the offensive creation, Dallas doesn’t have to rely on him as a scorer, but more as a connector who does the little things that keep the team running. Though his shooting numbers from last year aren’t ideal, his most efficient spot from behind the arc last season was from the corner. He will certainly have an opportunity to improve these numbers through drives and kicks.
Ideally, Washington will be able to stay healthy and on the floor, and his jumper will improve. With injuries to Johnson, Aldama, and Lively, May might find comfort in leaning on Washington’s leadership and physicality early in the season, allowing him to carve out a position for himself.
Worst case scenario
Washington shot just 32.5% from 3-point range a year ago. The Mavericks can’t afford to lose games as a direct result of poor outside shooting like they did last season. If Washington continues to miss games for nagging injuries, he will risk losing his role to Johnson, Aldama or Marshall. The real risk is a shrinking role that can turn what was once a coveted asset for the Mavericks into an unfavorable contract that fits neither the present nor the future. Dallas has limited assets to get things right around Flagg. If things aren’t working in the first half of the season, one or two forwards may find themselves on a one-way rocket trip to the moon come Trade Deadline time.
Season goal
We’d love to see Washington play 60-plus games and get back to at least 35% from behind the arc. Everything else in his game follows from those two metrics, from his rebounding to his defense. If he can stay healthy and hit his shots at a respectable rate, then it will be hard for May to deny him a decent chunk of playing time. Maintaining his tough play and leadership through the first half of the season would be the ideal benchmark to give the Mavericks the chance to evaluate his trade market and his success alongside Flagg.
Overall
Washington provides physicality, versatility, and, most importantly, leadership. These are qualities that are hard for rebuilding teams to part with and even harder for contending teams to acquire. Washington has the opportunity to hear his name called early when the Mavericks kick off their preseason in Macao, and the version of Washington who shows up this season will be a determining factor in whether he is here for the long haul.
BOSTON, MA - OCTOBER 10: Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics smiles before 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
First, let’s quiet the injury talk. No doubt precautions will be taken with Jayson Tatum (28), Paul George (36), and Mitchell Robinson (28). Derrick White (32) might even take a few more days off after playing 73+ games over each of the last three seasons. Their age and usage are all legitimate concerns, but this team is deep. Really deep. Leave the handwringing over PG’s max contract and load management for sports talk radio and the clicks. Instead, appreciate what Brad Stevens and the front office has built despite dodging the second apron in two consecutive years.
Consider that on a night when Boston put up a preseason-record 144 points, six of the eleven rotation players scored in double figures and Mike Conley Jr. and Ron Harper Jr. didn’t play. The Celtics are going to play fast. Really fast. Their active defense had 16 steals and generated 22 turnovers to the tune of a 96.5 defensive rating. To run the gauntlet of the 82-game regular season, they’ll need bodies. If any of the marquee players need to take the night off or even some extended time to nurse a nagging injury (knock on wood), every position doesn’t just have a backup, but a backup to the backup with rookies and two-way studs in the wings (pun intended).
Oh, and about these antiquated ideas of fit and role, throw those out the window, too. CelticsBlog’s Nate Moskowitz once remarked that Joe Mazzulla was building an army of Derrick Whites. On a night-to-night, matchup-to-matchup basis, there are going to be times when someone might make a little more sense. On Saturday night against the Sixers, Jordan Walsh got the nod to join the starters, presumably to pester the backcourt of VJ Edgecombe and Tyrese Maxey. But in the long run, don’t be surprised if those fourth or fifth starters are literally anybody off that deep bench. The Celtics depth is only matched by the well-roundedness of everybody that’s in it.
One more thing: as much as The Globe’s Gary Washburn is fond of mentioning the three-point shooting in a loss, let’s bury any criticism of Boston’s shot selection. Over the past three seasons, the Celtics have submitted three of the six most efficient offenses in league history. Maybe it’s fair to argue their reliability in the playoffs — even though that top-rated offense hung Banner 18 in the rafters.
However, what’s not up for debate is Mazzulla’s mindset to maximize possessions at not just the micro level of getting the best shot, but also in the macro of generating more shots. Against Cleveland on Thursday, the Celtics took nine more shots and won the free throw battle 35 to 16. Philly had thirteen fewer field goal attempts in a 38-point rout. What’s scary is that they’ve carried over their focus on offensive rebounding and supersized the margin by adding Robinson and made deflections and steals another point of emphasis on defense.
Washburn will be the first hand up in the postgame presser when the Celtics make just 7-of-37 from behind the arc and lose to visiting Kings. But Gary, my man, this is a process-oriented team and the process is working.
MACAO, CHINA - OCTOBER 11: Reed Sheppard #15 of the Houston Rockets dribbles the ball during the game against the Dallas Mavericks as part of 2026 NBA China Games on October 11, 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 Juan Ocampo/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
The Houston Rockets had a tale of two games in China. After looking good in game 1, the Rockets sat Kevin Durant, Steven Adams, Fred VanVleet and Alperen Sengun in game 2, losing a ton of firepower, while the Dallas Mavericks were boosted by the return of Kyrie Irving and downed the Rockets 132-115.
The Rockets started Marcus Smart and Clint Capela, and Smart actually looked pretty good, going for 20 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists, while shooting 4-for-9 from deep. But Capela only had 5 points and 9 boards in 24 minutes of action.
The Rockets were mostly battling from behind in this one, but Jabari Smith Jr. continued to look sharp and more aggressive, going for 14 points, 9 rebounds, and 4 assists, while Reed Sheppard had 17 points on 4-for-10 from deep, but he also had 5 turnovers, while Amen Thompson had 14 points, 7 boards, and 6 assists.
Even youngsters Oscar Tshiebwe and Bruce Thornton got some time, with Big Oscar going for 12 points and 4 boards, with Thornton adding 9 in 18 minutes.
The Mavs were led by Irving’s 17 points, and he carved up the Rockets in 22 minutes of action, much to Ime Udoka’s dismay. They also got 16 from Zaccharie Risacher and 14 from Cooper Flagg to round out their scoring leaders.
The Rockets will now return from China, and as one of the NBA’s preseason international teams, will only have three preseason games to play. They’ll be back in action on Thursday night at home versus the Oklahoma City Thunder. That’s a 730 start time, with the game airing on NBA TV.
The Raptors have been stuck in purgatory since Kawhi Leonard left in 2019. They have been okay at times but bad for the majority, and have not made it out of the first round in the last six seasons. Something needed to change, which obviously meant bringing back Kawhi Leonard. Leonard’s age-35 season will be north of the border once again, but with a younger group than his first go-around.
Toronto clearly believes that Leonard’s career-high 27.9 points in 65 games last year is going to be the norm going forward rather than the outlier. They not only traded first-round picks for him, but extended him for almost $60 million a year. There has been a trend of older guys maintaining a higher level of play recently, so maybe there is some magic left in the tank. But it is a huge risk, and one that could easily backfire if Leonard’s injury history catches up to him again.
Toronto Raptors: Over/Under 46.5 wins (-115/-110)
To win the NBA Finals: +2200
Last Season: 46-36, lost E. Conference first round
Key Additions: Kawhi Leonard, Kyle Anderson
Key Losses: Brandon Ingram
The Raptors, if nothing else, will be fascinating to watch. They have 12 players between six-foot-six and seven feet tall, including four of the five projected starters. They’re big, they like to defend, and they will create matchup problems all over the board. The Mavericks got a first-hand look at this last season when Toronto came out and blitzed the Mavericks almost a year ago. Now insert Kawhi Leonard into an already inspiring young group, and it is easy to see why this team could cause problems in the East.
The biggest question mark with respect to their win total resides in how many games Leonard will play. The Clippers got 65 from him last season, but he hasn’t played 60 games in back-to-back years since 2017. Even without him, the team can hold their own. Collin Murray-Boyles will build on an impressive rookie year, RJ Barrett can score in bunches, and Scottie Barnes will continue to be someone teams hate dealing with. But Kawhi Leonard makes this team go, and betting on him to stay healthy at age 35 is foolish. With the tides rising in the Eastern Conference, it will be hard for the Raptors to eclipse last year’s mark.
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
Philadelphia 76ers guard Jaylen Brown takes a shot prior to a preseason NBA basketball game against his former team, the Boston Celtics, Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026, in Boston.
During Saturday’s preseason game between the Celtics and the 76ers, NBA stars Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown completely ignored each other throughout warmups, making it pretty clear they’re still at odds.
In their first meeting since the offseason blockbuster trade, the two former top Celtics picks pretended that the other didn’t exist, despite being in mere steps away from one another.
Philadelphia 76ers guard Jaylen Brown, center, warms up prior to a preseason NBA basketball game against the Boston Celtics, his former team, Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026, in Boston. AP Photo/Charles Krupa
Jaylen Brown was pivotal for the Celtics last season, as his 28.7 points, 6.9 rebounds and 5.1 assists per game kept Boston at the top of the Eastern Conference while Tatum was recovering from an Achilles injury.
Boston faced low expectations at the start of last season due to the departures of Jrue Holiday, Al Horford and Kristaps Porziņģis, as well as Tatum’s injury. Brown’s contributions ensured the Celtics remained a top-two seed in the East, but their season ultimately ended with a collapse to Philadelphia after a 3-1 series lead in the first round of the 2026 playoffs.
The relationship between the Celtics and Brown grew sour during the season, and in his unofficial return, the five-time All-Star didn’t even sit courtside. According to NBC Sports Boston sideline reporter Abby Chin, Brown spent most of the 144-106 76ers loss in the locker room.
Philadelphia 76ers guard Jaylen Brown (7) warms up prior to a game against the Boston Celtics at TD Garden in Boston, Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
“Jaylen Brown, a former Celtic, is in the building,” Chin reported in the second quarter. “He’s not on the bench. So, we believe he’s back in the locker room here in Boston for the first time since he was traded away this summer.”
Tatum posted 23 points, five rebounds and four assists against the shorthanded 76ers, as Philadelphia also rested Joel Embiid and LeBron James.
Brown doesn’t make his official return to the TD Garden until Jan. 21. Boston will begin the first of four meetings between the two teams on November 10th in Philadelphia.
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 head coach Mike Brown speaks at a press conference as the New York Knicks practice at Madison Square Garden Training Center in Greenburgh, N.Y., Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026.
This was a day for “mindfulness.”
A day that Knicks coach Mike Brown used to remind his players that others can be going through their own personal issues they might not be aware of.
Prior to practice Sunday, rather than watching film, Brown chose to discuss something beyond basketball.
New York Knicks head coach Mike Brown speaks at a press conference as the New York Knicks practice at Madison Square Garden Training Center in Greenburgh, N.Y., Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026. Robert Sabo for NY Post
He also brought up the loss of his ex-wife in 2025 and the impact it had on his sons and him.
“As a coach, it’s not all about X’s and O’s every single day. Any time you can try to enlighten guys in different areas of life, not just about the basketball court, you try to do that,” he said. “This is something I thought about doing because I discussed it with a few of my coaches maybe a week and a half, two weeks ago. It was just speaking on being mindful or having mindfulness when it comes to your teammates.”
Karl-Anthony Towns appreciated it. He is one of three Knicks who are extension-eligible. Towns has been vocal about his disappointment that a new deal hasn’t gotten done, and Friday the Knicks released a statement that they were cutting off talks until later in the year.
“It was really cool to have Coach talk to us about being human, about the struggles in life,” Towns said. “Us being together and us understanding where everyone is in life and the situations they deal with will allow us to be even more connected and allow us to be an even better team.
“I want to make sure I say that. I have to give flowers to Mike. That was an amazing job by him as our leader to approach the elephant in the room and to allow us, the players and the coaches, the ones who were on that court in Game 4, Game 5, who really found a way to get this title back to New York, to be human. I think that’s an amazing thing.”
Brown made it clear this wasn’t just about the contractual issues. It was about the Knicks growing closer as a family and being there for one another.
“We have to hold each other accountable, but we also have to be mindful that you may have some s–t going on in your life that may not be good,” he said. “So we can’t keep trying to beat you up to be better at your job. Sometimes, it’s trying to figure out how to do that while uplifting you because I don’t know what you’re going through at home in your private life.”
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.
