Russell Westbrook is rightfully proud following an 18-season Hall of Fame career during which he was an MVP, two-time scoring champion and nine-time All-NBA. He earned the right to walk away on his terms.
Westbrook was offered a two-year contract by the Washington Wizards this summer but chose to turn it down and retire, Marc Stein of the Stein Line.
It's understandable that Westbrook, 37, decided to walk away. First, this was very likely a minimum contract, and odds are the second year was not fully guaranteed.
However, the larger issue might have been the role. Westbrook wants to start and play meaningful minutes (he started 58 of 64 games for the Kings last season), but Washington is loaded with guards, particularly young guards. Trae Young was just handed an oversized contract this offseason and will start at the point, likely next to Kyshawn George. Behind them are Bub Carrington and Tre Johnson, plus Will Riley can play some two-guard/wing in big lineups. And that's not even getting to the team wanting to put the ball in No. 1 pick AJ Dybantsa's hands as much as possible.
Westbrook would have been a mentor and limited role player on this team, and that's just not how he sees himself, it's not the role he wanted to play. Westbrook reportedly had some talks about returning to Sacramento as well, but again, that would have been in a backup and mentor role behind rookie Darius Acuff.
So Westbrook chose to walk away. Next stop, Hall of Fame.
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The parade is over.
Now it’s time to get back to business.
After one of the most exciting postseason runs in NBA history, the defending champion New York Knicks have announced their 2026-27 regular season schedule.
According to ESPN, Mike Brown’s club has the eighth toughest road this year of all 30 teams; their opponents compiled a cumulative win percentage of .501 over the course of last year’s campaign.
And, of course, there are some biggies to look out for these next few months.
Just a few of the most notable matchups at Madison Square Garden on the Knicks’ itinerary include:
• A home opener against LeBron James’ Philadelphia 76ers on Tuesday, Oct. 20
• An early November showdown with Donovan Mitchell’s Cleveland Cavaliers on Wednesday, Nov. 11
• Tyrese Haliburton’s return to the Garden when the Indiana Pacers visit MSG on Sunday, Nov. 22
• The Spurs heading back to MSG for a Christmas Day NBA Finals rematch on Friday, Dec. 25
• Steph Curry and the Golden State Warriors stopping into the Big Apple on Saturday, Feb. 13
If you’d like to be there, tickets are available for all home games to see Jalen Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns, OG Anunoby, Mikal Bridges and Josh Hart defend their hardwood as of today.
Make sure to use promo code NYPOST10 for $10 off purchases over $250 at checkout (Editor’s Note: this discount is only valid for users’ first purchase on SeatGeek).
In addition to their 41 regular season home games — we didn’t even mention their battles with former Knick Mitchell Robinson’s Boston Celtics on March 14 — they’ll also host a pair of NBA Cup games including one against Giannis Antetokounmpo’s new-look Miami Heat on Nov. 27.
“It won’t be easy for the Knicks to reclaim home court advantage [in the playoffs], but they have the players (and coaching staff) to make it happen in an uber-competitive east,” Daily Knicks wrote. “It’ll be key to their chances of defending the 2026 NBA Championship.”
All we know is the best way to witness the road to the repeat (Knicks in five again?!) is live.
We’ll see you at the Garden, Knicks fans.
Let’s defend the title together.
For more information, our team has everything you need to know and more about the New York Knicks’ 2026-27 home games below.
How can I get tickets to see the New York Knicks play at MSG in 2026-27?
A complete calendar including all home game dates, opponents, start times and links to buy tickets are listed here:
October 2026 preseason games at MSG
Knicks October 2026 preseason games
Washington Wizards vs. KnicksThursday, Oct. 8 at 7:30 p.m.
Minnesota Timberwolves vs. KnicksMonday, Oct. 12 at 7:30 p.m.
Toronto Raptors vs. KnicksThursday, Oct. 15 at 7:30 p.m.
October 2026 regular season games at MSG
Knicks October 2026 regular season games
Philadelphia 76ers vs. KnicksTuesday, Oct. 20 at 7 p.m.
Orlando Magic vs. KnicksSunday, Oct. 25 at 7 p.m.
Detroit Pistons vs. KnicksTuesday, Oct. 27 at 8 p.m.
November 2026 regular season games at MSG
Knicks November 2026 regular season games
Brooklyn Nets vs. KnicksMonday, Nov. 2 at 7:30 p.m.
Chicago Bulls vs. KnicksWednesday, Nov. 4 at 7:30 p.m.
Milwaukee Bucks vs. KnicksTuesday, Nov. 10 at 7:30 p.m.
Cleveland Cavaliers vs. KnicksWednesday, Nov. 11 at 7 p.m.
Portland Trail Blazers vs. KnicksSaturday, Nov. 21 at 7:30 p.m.
Indiana Pacers vs. KnicksSunday, Nov. 22 at 8 p.m.
Cleveland Cavaliers vs. KnicksNBA Cup Game Wednesday, Nov. 25 at 7:30 p.m.
Miami Heat vs. KnicksNBA Cup Game Friday, Nov. 27 at 7 p.m.
Atlanta Hawks vs. KnicksSunday, Nov. 29 at 6 p.m.
*Games listed as “NBA Cup Game” are part of the NBA in-season tournament.
December 2026 regular season games at MSG
Knicks December 2026 regular season games
Utah Jazz vs. KnicksWednesday, Dec. 23 at 7:30 p.m.
San Antonio Spurs vs. KnicksFriday, Dec. 25 at 12 p.m.
Brooklyn Nets vs. KnicksSunday, Dec. 27 at 6 p.m.
January 2027 regular season games at MSG
Knicks January 2027 regular season games
Denver Nuggets vs. KnicksMonday, Jan. 11 at 7:30 p.m.
Miami Heat vs. KnicksThursday, Jan. 14 at 7:30 p.m.
Dallas Mavericks vs. KnicksSaturday, Jan. 16 at 7:30 p.m.
Minnesota Timberwolves vs. KnicksMonday, Jan. 18 at 5 p.m.
Toronto Raptors vs. KnicksWednesday, Jan. 20 at 7:30 p.m.
LA Clippers vs. KnicksSunday, Jan. 24 at 7 p.m.
Phoenix Suns vs. KnicksTuesday, Jan. 26 at 7:30 p.m.
Atlanta Hawks vs. KnicksThursday, Jan. 28 at 7 p.m.
Los Angeles Lakers vs. KnicksSaturday, Jan. 30 at 8:30 p.m.
February 2027 regular season games at MSG
Knicks February 2027 regular season games
Toronto Raptors vs. KnicksThursday, Feb. 4 at 7:30 p.m.
Charlotte Hornets vs. KnicksTuesday, Feb. 9 at 7:30 p.m.
Golden State Warriors vs. KnicksSaturday, Feb. 13 at 8:30 p.m.
Oklahoma City Thunder vs. KnicksThursday, Feb. 25 at 7:30 p.m.
Philadelphia 76ers vs. KnicksSaturday, Feb. 27 at 8:30 p.m.
Milwaukee Bucks vs. KnicksSunday, Feb. 28 at 7:30 p.m.
March 2027 regular season games at MSG
Knicks March 2027 regular season games
Memphis Grizzlies vs. KnicksTuesday, March 2 at 7:30 p.m.
Boston Celtics vs. KnicksSunday, March 14 at 12 p.m.
Sacramento Kings vs. KnicksWednesday, March 17 at 7:30 p.m.
Washington Wizards vs. KnicksSaturday, March 20 at 1 p.m.
New Orleans Pelicans vs. KnicksTuesday, March 23 at 7:30 p.m.
Houston Rockets vs. KnicksWednesday, March 24 at 7:30 p.m.
April 2027 regular season games at MSG
Knicks April 2027 regular season games
Charlotte Hornets vs. KnicksThursday, April 1 at 7:30 p.m.
Boston Celtics vs. KnicksSunday, April 4 at 7:30 p.m.
Detroit Pistons vs. KnicksFriday, April 9 at 7 p.m.
Indiana Pacers vs. KnicksSunday, April 11 at 6 p.m.
Where are the Knicks playing on the road in 2026-27?
Here’s where you can find Brunson, Towns and the team when they’re not at MSG from October 2026 through April 2027.
How can I watch the Knicks on TV in 2026-27?
There are a number of options for fans who prefer to watch games from the comfort of their own home.
MSG Network, ABC, ESPN, NBC, Amazon Prime Video and NBA TV are likely your best bets.
For cord cutters, we recommend looking into Fubo, Hulu + Live TV, Sling or YouTube TV.
Just make sure to check local listings before tuning in.
Huge shows at MSG in 2026-27
Want to catch a show at the Big Apple’s one-of-a-kind entertainment epicenter?
Here are just five of the biggest acts headed to MSG these next few months.
• Bryson Tiller (Sept. 13)
• Mt. Joy (Sept. 17)
• Gorillaz (Sept. 29)
• Dave Matthews Band (Nov. 12-13)
• Doja Cat with Latto (Dec. 1)
Who else is headed to the Garden? Take a look at this list of all the biggest events at MSG these next few months to find the concert or game for you.
This article was written by Matt Levy, New York Post live events reporter. Levy stays up-to-date on all the latest tour announcements from your favorite musical artists and comedians, as well as Broadway openings, sporting events and more live shows – and finds great ticket prices online. Since he started his tenure at the Post in 2022, Levy has reviewed a Bruce Springsteen concert and interviewed Melissa Villaseñor of SNL fame, to name a few. Please note that deals can expire, and all prices are subject to change.
DALLAS, TEXAS - MARCH 18: P.J. Washington #25 of the Dallas Mavericks looks on during the second half against the Atlanta Hawks at American Airlines Center on March 18, 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 Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sam Hodde/Getty Images) | Getty Images
In an exclusive interview with Dallas Mavericks forward P.J. Washington, Kevin Gray Jr. of DLLS Mavs got the inside scoop on the Dallas native and his thoughts on the upcoming season. Washington has been at the forefront of trade rumors this offseason as the Mavericks look to retool around Cooper Flagg. The quick interview hit on some big offseason topics, including his local training camp, Kyrie Irving’s comeback, and, most importantly, his future in Dallas. Here are the highlights of how Washington is approaching next season. The full interview can be found here.
Ujiri loves forwards
It’s no secret P.J. Washington has been one of the more widely speculated names to be in trade discussions for the Mavs. After all, he played a pivotal role for Dallas in its run to the NBA Finals in 2024 and has proven to be a threat on both sides of the ball. In 56 games last season, the 27-year-old averaged 14.2 points, 7.0 rebounds, 1.8 assists, and 2.1 stocks (steals + blocks). His athleticism and versatility make him one of the more sought-after forwards in the league.
We may not want to admit this, but new team president Masai Ujiri somewhat shares Nico Harrison’s vision of a team built primarily on forwards. After helping the Toronto Raptors win its only championship in 2019, Ujiri was let go by the organization shortly after the 2025 NBA draft. Ultimately, he found a new home in Dallas less than a year later. But there are some unique characteristics about that 2019 Raptors team, a few of which this same Mavericks team has.
Ujiri loves defensive-minded, athletic forwards. His draft history proves it. Some of his most notable picks include Pascal Siakam (27th overall in 2016), O.G. Anunoby (23rd overall in 2017), and Scottie Barnes (4th overall in 2021). His admiration for two-way forwards proved itself in the Mavericks selecting 6’9 forward Morez Johnson. Jr. in the 2026 NBA draft. Dallas’s forward depth is about as deep in the NBA as it gets: P.J Washington, Naji Marshall, Zaccharie Risacher, Caleb Martin, Morez Johnson Jr., Tobi Lawal, Santi Aldama, Tarik Biberovic, Sergio De Larrea, and of course Cooper Flagg.
No room? no problem
With a backlog in forwards, the assumption would be someone has to go, right? Wrong – at least not with Washington. In the interview, P.J. Washington expresses his excitement for the upcoming season and his notable lengthy conversations with Ujiri.
“I spoke to him and my role is just going to be a leader. Going out each and every night and just being myself, being aggressive on both ends of the floor. Trying to lead as much as I can this year using my voice and just be the best vet I can for the young guys.”
Gray then asked the big question about how confident Washington is about being on the roster on opening night. The Mavericks forward didn’t leave any room for doubt.
“Super confident. I’ve had long talks with Masai and the whole team. I’m super confident I’ll be a Maverick. This is where I want to be. I’m super excited to be here and get things going.”
Washington went on to briefly talk about connecting with new head coach Dusty May. Cooper Flagg and P.J. Washington’s minutes together on the court last season weren’t great. Dallas lacked spacing and shooting. May’s desire to run and gun may play to Washington’s strengths more. And of course, it will be beneficial to have Kyrie Irving back. So, there should be some optimism surrounding part two of what Washington and Flagg can look like together. At bare minimum, the Mavericks want to see it in action with Irving’s return and new offensive system.
Looking ahead
Training camp starts in a little over a month, and this roster seems to be what the Mavericks will go with into the season. Gray’s interview with P.J. Washington silently reaffirmed what we thought Ujiri’s vision was with this team. He wants forwards who can do just about anything. He has them, and Washington is one of the most valuable. Although Dallas comes into next season with a completely clean slate and a plethora of new faces, the big question surrounding this team remains the same. Can a forward-heavy team get the franchise back on the winning track? We’ll find out in two months.
MINNEAPOLIS, MN - JUNE 7: An overall view of the court after the Minnesota Timberwolves unveil new logo, uniforms and court on June 7, 2026 at Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. 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 David Sherman/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NBA. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Timberwolves fans and fans across the country.
Now that Kevin Garnett’s number 21 is finally going up to the Target Center rafters next season, it only feels right that the Minnesota Timberwolves can begin honoring other notable players in the franchise’s relatively short 37 year history.
The parameters for why a player should have their jersey number retired is subjective. There is no science to this and with an organization that has experienced so little success (outside of the current Anthony Edwards era), let alone sniffed a championship, it begs the question if anyone even deserves to have their number retired.
But why be so negative?
Teams without titles still deserve to celebrate their heroes of yore. So if it were up to you, who’s number would you like to see alongside Garnett and Malik Sealy (and the multitude of Lynx Hall of Famers)?
MINNEAPOLIS, MN – JUNE 7: Sam Mitchell poses for a photo during the Minnesota Timberwolves new logo and court unveil on June 7, 2026 at Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. 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 David Sherman/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
If we’re going by longevity and dedication to the franchise, Sam Mitchell certainly deserves the nod. He played 10 of his 13 seasons with the Wolves, totaling the second most amount of games played just behind Garnett. He wasn’t an All-Star by any means, but he continued his Wolves lore as an assistant and interim head coach during the late Flip Saunders years. Mitchell still frequently shows up for fan and community events in Minnesota, such as during the new rebrand event this summer.
Kevin Love is the next person that pops into mind. Ironically, Love and Mitchell both wore number 42, but other franchises have retired the same number for different players before. His case is almost opposite to Mitchell though. First of all, Love is still technically an active player (and capable power forward free agent!). Second, Love had perhaps the highest peak of any Timberwolves player outside of Garnett and Edwards. Third, he had a bit of an unceremonious departure from Minnesota, though much of that blame can be shifted to then President of Basketball Operations David Kahn. Weirdly enough, Love only played five of his 18 seasons with the Wolves.
MINNEAPOLIS, MN – APRIL 1: Ricky Rubio #9 and Gorgui Dieng #5 of the Minnesota Timberwolves high five each other during the game against the Sacramento Kings on April 1, 2017 at Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. 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 2017 NBAE (Photo by David Sherman/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
Is it too soon to think of more recent players like Ricky Rubio and Gorgui Dieng? Both have officially retired from the NBA (Rubio recently announced he would be continuing his playing career in Spain), but were deeply beloved by Wolves fans by in and outside of the local Minnesota community. They are tier one human beings who left a deep impact on others. Rubio, in particular, inspired a great deal of hope on-the-court during a very dark time for the Wolves.
If there’s anyone we missed, make your case in the comments below!
The latest Buss family dispute emerged Monday following a report that the family will sell its remaining stake in the Los Angeles Lakers to new majority owners Bob Iger and Josh Kushner.
The move to sell off the remaining 17.8% ownership stake, reported Monday morning by ESPN, would mark the end of the Buss family era with the 17-time NBA championship franchise.
In a statement reported by ESPN, the Buss family said. “We have decided as a family to sell the remaining Buss Family Trust shares to the Bob Iger group as part of the ongoing transaction. We love the Lakers, Laker fans and will continue to support Los Angeles; but it is time to use this opportunity to move on and exit gracefully while we still can.”
NBC Los Angeles has reached out to the Lakers, Buss family and representatives for Bob Iger and Josh Kusher for comment.
The sale would mean Jeanie Buss would no longer be the team’s governor, which requires a qualifying 15% ownership stake in a franchise. She has been team governor since 2013, following the death of her father Jerry Buss.
But later Monday, CNBC reported that Jeanie Buss is opposing the potential sale of her family’s stake, citing a letter addressed to law firms representing Jeanie Buss’s siblings. The letter said Jeanie Buss has not agreed to sell the team and a vote suggesting the family is selling “would be and is void,” CNBC reported.
Attorney Adam Streisand argued in the letter that Jeanie Buss remains the controlling shareholder, CNBC reported.
The siblings have been in frequent conflict since their father’s death. Jeanie Buss fired Jim Buss from his job as the Lakers’ head of basketball operations in 2017. A week later, she filed a lawsuit against her brothers during an attempt by Jim and Johnny to oust Jeanie from her role as the Lakers’ controlling owner.
Iger is the former CEO of the Walt Disney Co. Kushner is the younger brother of Jared Kushner, who is married to President Donald Trump’s daughter Ivanka. They confirmed last week that they had reached an agreement to purchase the Lakers for a record $12.5 billion.
The deal was announced about 10 months after Dodgers owner Mark Walter purchased a majority stake in the team from the Buss family for $10 billion.
ESPN reported that a majority of the Buss siblings, Jeanie, Jim, Johnny, Janie, Joey and Jesse, voted to sell off the family’s remaining stake in the team. According to the ESPN report, Jeanie Buss’ agreement under the sale to Walter would have kept her as governor of the franchise through 2030.
The team sale must still go before the NBA Board of Governors for approval. The board’s next meeting is Sept. 15-16 in New York.
Jerry Buss bought the Lakers in 1979 for $67.5 million. The deal included the NHL’s Kings and The Forum in Inglewood.
Following his death in 2013, Lakers ownership passed to his children, with Jeanie Buss serving as team governor ever since.
Under the Buss family, the Lakers captured 11 NBA championships, the last coming during the pandemic-shortened 2020 season.
The latest Buss family dispute emerged Monday following a report that the family will sell its remaining stake in the Los Angeles Lakers to new majority owners Bob Iger and Josh Kushner.
The move to sell off the remaining 17.8% ownership stake, reported Monday morning by ESPN, would mark the end of the Buss family era with the 17-time NBA championship franchise.
In a statement reported by ESPN, the Buss family said. “We have decided as a family to sell the remaining Buss Family Trust shares to the Bob Iger group as part of the ongoing transaction. We love the Lakers, Laker fans and will continue to support Los Angeles; but it is time to use this opportunity to move on and exit gracefully while we still can.”
NBC Los Angeles has reached out to the Lakers, Buss family and representatives for Bob Iger and Josh Kusher for comment.
The sale would mean Jeanie Buss would no longer be the team’s governor, which requires a qualifying 15% ownership stake in a franchise. She has been team governor since 2013, following the death of her father Jerry Buss.
But later Monday, CNBC reported that Jeanie Buss is opposing the potential sale of her family’s stake, citing a letter addressed to law firms representing Jeanie Buss’s siblings. The letter said Jeanie Buss has not agreed to sell the team and a vote suggesting the family is selling “would be and is void,” CNBC reported.
Attorney Adam Streisand argued in the letter that Jeanie Buss remains the controlling shareholder, CNBC reported.
The siblings have been in frequent conflict since their father’s death. Jeanie Buss fired Jim Buss from his job as the Lakers’ head of basketball operations in 2017. A week later, she filed a lawsuit against her brothers during an attempt by Jim and Johnny to oust Jeanie from her role as the Lakers’ controlling owner.
Iger is the former CEO of the Walt Disney Co. Kushner is the younger brother of Jared Kushner, who is married to President Donald Trump’s daughter Ivanka. They confirmed last week that they had reached an agreement to purchase the Lakers for a record $12.5 billion.
The deal was announced about 10 months after Dodgers owner Mark Walter purchased a majority stake in the team from the Buss family for $10 billion.
ESPN reported that a majority of the Buss siblings, Jeanie, Jim, Johnny, Janie, Joey and Jesse, voted to sell off the family’s remaining stake in the team. According to the ESPN report, Jeanie Buss’ agreement under the sale to Walter would have kept her as governor of the franchise through 2030.
The team sale must still go before the NBA Board of Governors for approval. The board’s next meeting is Sept. 15-16 in New York.
Jerry Buss bought the Lakers in 1979 for $67.5 million. The deal included the NHL’s Kings and The Forum in Inglewood.
Following his death in 2013, Lakers ownership passed to his children, with Jeanie Buss serving as team governor ever since.
Under the Buss family, the Lakers captured 11 NBA championships, the last coming during the pandemic-shortened 2020 season.
Mar 10, 2026; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Haywood Highsmith (19) reacts after scoring a basket during the fourth quarter against the Milwaukee Bucks at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
Free agent F Haywood Highsmith has agreed to a one-year deal to return to the Phoenix Suns, his agent Jerry Dianis tells ESPN. pic.twitter.com/IpkzmLnRju
Five days ago, Phoenix opted to waive the veteran defensive specialist, who was owed $1 million on a contract that was not set to become fully guaranteed until January 10, 2027. Had Highsmith remained on the roster through that date, the deal would have become worth $3 million in total.
Now, less than a week later, he’s back.
So what’s the reasoning behind this? Why would the Suns waive Highsmith only to bring him back for roughly the same amount? Certainly there have to be some mechanics involved that benefit both sides, right? Because if not, the $1 million that was owed to Highsmith before he was waived would simply be added to the Suns’ dead cap, pushing that total to $24.2 million.
I haven’t seen an updated cap sheet yet or any official details on how the new contract is structured, but my assumption is that it will be fully non-guaranteed. If that’s the case, the $1 million previously owed to Highsmith would remain part of the dead cap, while his new deal would give Phoenix greater flexibility moving forward.
So why do it? For starters, the Suns gave Highsmith an opportunity to test the market and see whether another team would offer him a fully guaranteed contract. Given his recent injury history, including missing nearly all of last season after meniscus surgery, there were legitimate concerns. He cleared waivers, nobody brought him in, and ultimately he returned to Phoenix.
The Suns, meanwhile, may have created additional flexibility with the structure of the new deal. Had Highsmith remained on his previous contract, they already owed him $1 million, and that deal could have grown to $3 million if it had become fully guaranteed.
Under this new arrangement, Phoenix potentially avoids committing that additional money if Highsmith doesn’t make it to the guarantee date. If he does, the Suns have the room to keep him. That $3 million would hit the cap, but it wouldn’t necessarily create a major problem given where Phoenix already sits relative to the first and second aprons.
Another way to look at this is that Highsmith could potentially be on an Exhibit 9 contract, which would essentially make this a training camp invite and give the Suns an opportunity to see how he looks and responds physically. If he doesn’t make the regular-season roster, the deal wouldn’t count against the cap.
We could see something similar to what happened last season, when Jordan Goodwin and Jared Butler battled for a roster spot. This time around, that competition could involve Highsmith and Jamaree Bouyea, who also does not have a guaranteed contract. If that’s the case, Phoenix could still enter the season with an open roster spot, giving the organization another layer of flexibility.
For all the people who were devastated when the Suns waived Haywood Highsmith last week, you can settle down now. I found it funny how frustrated some people became, almost as if Phoenix were waiving a starter rather than a depth piece. In reality, Highsmith is someone who can step in when injuries occur or provide specific minutes against a point-of-attack threat. It’s a reminder that depth is fluid, and sometimes people become more emotionally invested in the idea of a player than what that player actually is in the present.
Highsmith still has a long road ahead of him to earn those minutes back. He needs to get himself back into complete NBA shape and rebuild that value. The fact that he cleared waivers also showed that his value around the league may not be as high as the local fan base believes.
That doesn’t mean he isn’t a worthwhile addition. He brings a defensive mentality, can shoot the three-ball, and fits with who and what the Phoenix Suns are trying to be from both an organizational and skill-set standpoint.
And the Suns? Kudos to them for remaining vigilant and finding ways to save wherever they can. For an organization that has been fiscally irresponsible in the past, this is further evidence that they are operating much more responsibly moving forward. You may look at saving $3 million as a risk when it meant potentially losing a player of Highsmith’s caliber, but it wasn’t necessarily much of a risk at all.
The Suns were already going to owe him $1 million guaranteed. My assumption is that this new deal is fully non-guaranteed, meaning they incur no additional financial loss if it doesn’t work out. Optionality. That’s what the Suns have given themselves.
The Sixers on Monday announced their 2026 preseason schedule, which begins with an Oct. 5 home game against the Knicks. All games will air on NBC Sports Philadelphia and 97.5 The Fanatic. The full schedule is below:
The Sixers presumably won’t play their full-strength team for much of the preseason, but the exhibition games will provide the first glimpse at a new-look team with LeBron James, Brown and sky-high expectations. The Sixers’ regular-season opener at Madison Square Garden will tip off on Oct. 20 at 7 p.m. ET.
One of the biggest X-factors for the Boston Celtics in the upcoming 2026-27 NBA season will be Paul George.
The veteran forward was acquired by the Celtics as part of the controversial Jaylen Brown trade with the Philadelphia 76ers back in July.
George is older and not as talented as Brown, but he should still be a productive player for the C’s.
In the latest episode of team-produced show Beneath the Banners, Celtics president of basketball operations Brad Stevens explained why he thinks George will be a good fit in Boston.
“Paul’s a really good player,” Stevens said. “He’s been a really good player for a long time. He’s one of the more impactful players with regard to winning, even as he’s aged in the NBA. We just think he’s a good fit for how we play, and I think the other part about Paul is he’s very smart.
“He has a good feel for the game; he’s got a good savvy to him about the game, and I think that fits in with the rest of our lineup.”
George averaged 17.3 points, 5.3 rebounds and 3.6 assists per game for the Sixers last season, while shooting 39.2 percent from the 3-point line. He also impressed in the 2026 playoffs, especially in the seven-game series against the Celtics. George averaged 17.4 points per game and shot 55 percent on 3-pointers versus the C’s.
The concern with George is availability. He has battled injuries throughout his career. He played in just 37 games last season (also served a 25-game suspension) and 41 games in 2024-25. George has played 60-plus games in a season only once (2023-24) since 2019.
But if healthy, George can absolutely be a difference maker for the Celtics.
He’s still a good outside shooter, he’s still a quality perimeter defender. He’s a smart player, he can play/defend multiple positions, and he brings tons of experience. George isn’t an All-NBA caliber player at this stage of his career, but his impact on winning can still be pretty high.
And he sounds pretty excited to get going with his new teammates.
“It’s surreal,” George said on the latest Beneath the Banners episode. “I’m ecstatic. I’m looking forward to the journey. I’m looking forward to wearing that green and representing for Boston.”
Well, you can't say New Orleans did absolutely nothing this offseason.
The Pelicans are signing 6'8" power forward Trendon Watford to a one-year, $2.9 million minimum contract, reports ESPN’s Shams Charania. This will be the former LSU star's sixth NBA season, bringing the Pelicans roster to a full 15 contracts.
Watford was at the end of the rotation in Philadelphia last season, getting into 53 games and averaging 6.5 points and 3.3 rebounds per night when he did. He's not a floor spacer, taking nearly three-quarters of his shots last season within 10 feet of the rim (but being pretty efficient on those). Watford reportedly was in talks to play next season in Spain before the Pelicans' opportunity arrived.
Watford will struggle for minutes if the Pelicans are healthy, playing behind Zion Williamson and Derik Queen, but if either player misses time, Watford becomes a veteran reserve off the bench. Also, if the Pelicans make trades during the season — teams are still calling about Trey Murphy III — his role could expand as well.
Watford is the biggest signing this offseason for New Orleans, which says something about how quiet their offseason has been. The Pelicans hired a new coach in Jamahl Mosley, who should help the defense — just as he did in Orlando — but the Pelicans are essentially running it back with a 26-win team from a year ago that did not tank (they didn't control their own draft pick) and was largely healthy. This team looks better on paper than on the court the past couple of seasons, can a new coach change that?
SAN ANTONIO, TX - JUNE 13: De'Aaron Fox #4 of the San Antonio Spurs shoots a three point basket during the game against the New York Knicks during Game Five of the 2026 NBA Finals on June 13, 2026 at Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, 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 Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE(Photo by Jesse D. Garrabrant /NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
Welcome to Pounding the Rock’s 2025-26 player reviews! The series will look at the players who finished the season with the San Antonio Spurs on guaranteed contracts and who played consequential minutes and/or a vital role (so no two-way players because we hardly saw them this year, no players who were traded away, and none of the deep bench centers, since they were both irrelevant and are now all gone).
Contract Status: 4 years, $221.7 million remaining
Age: 28
What goes into a grade? With 82 games and four playoff series, there is so much time to reflect on. Summarizing it all with an overarching grade is a unique task. And yet, so far, it’s been largely easy to assign a letter to most of the Spurs. Grading De’Aaron Fox is not so easy.
Fox made one of San Antonio’s most famous mistakes of the season. Getting blocked by OG Anunoby with seconds left in Game Four of the NBA Finals will haunt him and the Spurs for quite some time. After being pretty good in the first two playoff series, an ankle injury held him back from being as effective in the Western Conference Finals and Finals. And yet, Fox was an All-Star this season, and without him, the Spurs don’t reach the highest highs of their season.
Fox did two things extremely well this year: lift the team when Victor Wembanyama sits (a very important job for a team with a superstar with some delicate health issues), and steady the ship when things got tough in the postseason. Fox averaged 24.6 points, 6.2 assists and 4.4 rebounds in the 18 games Wembanyama missed this season. With a mostly inexperienced roster, Fox kept the team afloat while guards like Stephon Castle and Dylan Harper could not yet handle a primary ball-handler role (Castle had a major turnover problem when Fox was not in the lineup).
Still, it’s hard not to feel like Fox left a bit on the table this season. San Antonio’s offense, while effective (4th in offensive rating), never seemed to click. Fox was left playing off the ball due to Castle and Harper’s lack of three-point shooting. That meant less of Fox running the pick-and-roll where he was most effective, and a lot of him spotting catch-and-shoot threes, where he hit only 33.2% of his deep shots.
Despite the disappointing end to the season (which was almost certainly affected by injury), Fox was one of the Spurs’ best players all season long. He was a steady, veteran performer who lifted his teammates and took over when he needed to. It was actually kind of the exact type of season you’re looking for from your starting point guard (minus the Finals blunders).
So a grade here is tough, because there are large, glaring negatives to take away from this season. But I am, admittedly, a basketball optimist. For every Fox mistake late in the season, I can think of 5 moments where he came up with a clutch basket, or settled the team after a wild run. So he gets a passing grade, but is certainly one of the Spurs with the biggest microscope on him entering the 2026-27 season.
Looking ahead
Fox’s max contract extension kicks in this year. With that comes even more scrutiny for the veteran, especially coming off his NBA Finals performance. For the first time since he’s been a Spur, it seems like Fox will be fully healthy coming into the season. His ankle is healed up, and there has been no word of other lower body injuries cropping up. A fully rested and motivated Fox could be a dangerous player coming into the year.
It would be great to see Mitch Johnson lean into the Fox-Wembanyama pick-and-roll that was so deadly last season. Castle and Harper have improved as off-ball shooters, and are good enough cutters to make defenses pay for losing them in the half-court. Overall, it’s on Johnson to find a way to play Fox and the other three guards. It’s an offensive scheme that the team needs to figure out to ascend to another level.
San Antonio’s personnel actually should fit Fox a bit better this season, too. A potential lineup of Fox, Devin Vassell, Julian Champagnie, Tobias Harris and Wembanyama could be an interesting mix of shooting, playmaking and finishing that would allow Fox to play a more central ball-handling and playmaking role. If Carter Bryant becomes a better shooter, he could be an interesting player next to Fox who could space the floor on the wing and run out in transition with the point guard.
I am bullish on a bounce-back year for Fox next season on the court. San Antonio needs that to recoup his value. With Harper nipping at his heels, Fox’s time as the starting point guard seems to be dwindling. It is going to be very hard for the Spurs to field a competitive team when they need to hand out max contracts to Castle and Harper, alongside Wembanyama and Fox’s contracts. Right now, it’s easy to point to Fox as the odd man out of that core.
But what realistically could the Spurs get in a trade for Fox at this point? Are teams clamoring to acquire a 28-year-old point guard coming off of his worst playoff series, and starting a contract many have labeled one of the worst in the league? San Antonio needs Fox to play well, not only to help the team this year, but to make him moveable down the road once they need to clear space to build a competitor around Wembanyama, Harper, and Castle.
That is likely not a problem for this season, or maybe even next offseason. But it is something that will be on Spurs fans’ minds, and maybe even Fox and Harper’s as they compete for playing time moving forward. In an ideal world, that drives Fox to play to the level of his contract. In a world where things go wrong for the Spurs, it kills chemistry and a move needs to be made. Which direction things start to go is going to be one of the biggest storylines for the Spurs next season.
PHILADELPHIA, PA - MARCH 15: Trendon Watford #12 of the Philadelphia 76ers dribbles the ball during the game against the Portland Trail Blazers on March 15, 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
The final 2026 Sixers free agent has found a home.
ESPN’s Shams Charania has reported that Trendon Watford has signed a one-year, $2.9 million dollar deal with the New Orleans Pelicans.
Free agent F Trendon Watford has agreed to a one-year, $2.9 million deal with the New Orleans Pelicans, sources tell ESPN. Watford considered multiple options but for New Orleans serves as a productive two-way get late into the offseason after a year in Philadelphia where he… pic.twitter.com/F8ecDrfLei
In his lone season with the Sixers, Watford averaged 16.3 minutes across his 53 appearances while struggling with soft tissue injures. A strained hamstring made him miss the start of the season and an adductor strain cost him a healthy chunk of the middle of the season.
Watford put up 6.5 points per game along with 3,3 rebounds and 2.5 assists as a Sixer. As a starter he dropped a triple-double early in the season and was very popular in the locker room as a close friend of Tyrese Maxey.
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - MAY 10: Mikal Bridges #25 of the New York Knicks and Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers wrestle for a loose ball during the second quarter in Game Four of the Second Round of the NBA Eastern Conference Playoffs at Xfinity Mobile Arena on May 10, 2026 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. (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The New York Knicks’ full 2026 preseason schedule has emerged after X account New York Basketball (kudos!) put together other franchises’games, giving us our first look at the reigning champs’ five-game tune-up before the start of their title defense.
The complete slate will run from Oct. 5 through Oct. 15 and feature four different opponents, three games at Madison Square Garden, and two on the road — one of them not in the USA of A.
New York will open preseason play Monday, Oct. 5, with a trip to Philadelphia (of course) before returning home for games against two very exciting and promising teams in Washington and Minnesota. The Knicks will then finish with a home-and-home against Toronto on Oct. 13 and 15.
The final matchup was initially listed by the Raptors with a 7 p.m. ET tipoff, but NBA New York subsequently clarified that the Oct. 15 game at MSG will begin at 7:30 p.m., as corrected by the Knicks.
Philadelphia 76ers: The preseason opener might also feature the most intriguing opponent on the schedule, although we all know there won’t be any NYK vs. LBJ on Oct. 5, right? Philadelphia added LeBron James and Jaylen Brown during the offseason, putting them alongside Tyrese Maxey, VJ Edgecombe and perennially hurt Joel Embiid. On paper, that makes the Sixers quite the first test—even if maybe none of those five play.
Washington Wizards: New York gets its first preseason appearance at Madison Square Garden against Washington on Oct. 8. The Wizards have only lost D’Angelo Russell (if you still cared about him) while adding Deandre Ayton, Khris Middleton, and mostly AJ Dybantsa to their squad. Ever-hated Trae Young is still around, and the Wiz Kiz are my underdog to make the ECF, so I’m highly intrigued!
Minnesota Timberwolves: Minnesota visits MSG on Oct. 12, providing another meeting between two teams that went deep into last season’s playoffs. For the Knicks, it will also be their final preseason game before playing on consecutive nights north of the border. Will we get at least a glimpse of the new LaMelo Ball-Anthony Edwards backcourt? We hope!
Toronto Raptors (x2): We don’t know which sort of team the Knicks will face here. Will Kawhi Leonard play? Will he even be a member of the Raptors by the time we get to this game? Will RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley face their former team? Will Brandon Ingram or won’t he? Too many questions for which only Pablo Torre has the answers.
Knicks’ 2026 Full Preseason Schedule
Oct. 5 — at 76ers — 7 p.m. ET Oct. 8 — vs. Wizards — 7:30 p.m. ET Oct. 12 — vs. Timberwolves — 7:30 p.m. ET Oct. 13 — at Raptors — 7 p.m. ET Oct. 15 — vs. Raptors — 7:30 p.m. ET
What do you make of this, if anything at all? Are you already looking forward to anything in particular? Do you expect any spicy matchup to happen during these meaningless, early-to-mid-October games? Let us know in the comments section below!
PHILADELPHIA, PA - MAY 8: Trendon Watford #12 of the Philadelphia 76ers dribbles the ball during the game against the New York Knicks during Round Two Game Three of the 2026 NBA Playoffs on May 8, 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 David Dow/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
Free agent forward Trendon Watford has signed a one-year deal with the New Orleans Pelicans worth $2.9 million, per reports.
Free agent F Trendon Watford has agreed to a one-year, $2.9 million deal with the New Orleans Pelicans, sources tell ESPN. Watford considered multiple options but for New Orleans serves as a productive two-way get late into the offseason after a year in Philadelphia where he… pic.twitter.com/F8ecDrfLei
The former LSU Tiger was most recently with the Philadelphia 76ers, after previously spending two seasons with both the Portland Trail Blazers and Brooklyn Nets.
The Birmingham native immediately made an impact at LSU, averaging 13.6 points and 7.2 rebounds per game as a freshman in 2019 and earning SEC All-Freshman Team honors.
As a sophomore, Watford averaged 16.3 points and 7.4 rebounds per game. He scored a career-high 30 points in LSU’s SEC Tournament championship game loss to Alabama and earned First-Team All-SEC honors from the Associated Press and Second-Team honors from the coaches. He declared for the 2021 NBA Draft following the season.
After going undrafted, Watford signed a two-way contract with the Portland Trail Blazers in August 2021, which was converted to a standard contract in February 2022. He scored a career-high 27 points against Washington that March. In the 2022 NBA Summer League, Watford led Portland to the championship with 19 points, seven rebounds, and three steals, earning Championship Game MVP honors and a spot on the All-Summer League Second Team.
In July 2025, Watford joined the 76ers on a two-year contract worth $5.3 million. He recorded the first triple-double of his NBA career on November 8, finishing with 20 points, 17 rebounds, and 10 assists in Philadelphia’s 130-120 win over the Toronto Raptors.
The 25-year-old will now head to New Orleans, where he will look to help the Pelicans turn things around after finishing the 2025-26 season with a 26-56 record, 11th in the Western Conference.
The latest Buss family dispute emerged Monday following a report that the family will sell its remaining stake in the Los Angeles Lakers to new majority owners Bob Iger and Josh Kushner.
The move to sell off the remaining 17.8% ownership stake, reported Monday morning by ESPN, would mark the end of the Buss family era with the 17-time NBA championship franchise.
In a statement reported by ESPN, the Buss family said. “We have decided as a family to sell the remaining Buss Family Trust shares to the Bob Iger group as part of the ongoing transaction. We love the Lakers, Laker fans and will continue to support Los Angeles; but it is time to use this opportunity to move on and exit gracefully while we still can.”
The sale would mean Jeanie Buss would no longer be the team’s governor, which requires a qualifying 15% ownership stake in a franchise. She has been team governor since 2013, following the death of her father Jerry Buss.
But later Monday, CNBC reported that Jeanie Buss is opposing the potential sale of her family’s stake, citing a letter addressed to law firms representing Jeanie Buss’s siblings. The letter said Jeanie Buss has not agreed to sell the team and a vote suggesting the family is selling “would be and is void,” CNBC reported.
Attorney Adam Streisand argued in the letter that Jeanie Buss remains the controlling shareholder, CNBC reported.
The siblings have been in frequent conflict since their father’s death. Jeanie Buss fired Jim Buss from his job as the Lakers’ head of basketball operations in 2017. A week later, she filed a lawsuit against her brothers during an attempt by Jim and Johnny to oust Jeanie from her role as the Lakers’ controlling owner.
Iger is the former CEO of the Walt Disney Co. Kushner is the younger brother of Jared Kushner, who is married to President Donald Trump’s daughter Ivanka. They confirmed last week that they had reached an agreement to purchase the Lakers for a record $12.5 billion.
The deal was announced about 10 months after Dodgers owner Mark Walter purchased a majority stake in the team from the Buss family for $10 billion.
ESPN reported that a majority of the Buss siblings, Jeanie, Jim, Johnny, Janie, Joey and Jesse, voted to sell off the family’s remaining stake in the team. According to the ESPN report, Jeanie Buss’ agreement under the sale to Walter would have kept her as governor of the franchise through 2030.
The team sale must still go before the NBA Board of Governors for approval. The board’s next meeting is Sept. 15-16 in New York.
Jerry Buss bought the Lakers in 1979 for $67.5 million. The deal included the NHL’s Kings and The Forum in Inglewood.
Following his death in 2013, Lakers ownership passed to his children, with Jeanie Buss serving as team governor ever since.
Under the Buss family, the Lakers captured 11 NBA championships, the last coming during the pandemic-shortened 2020 season.
