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LeBron James next team 2026: Will LeBron join Stephen Curry, Draymond Green on Warriors? Reunion with Heat?

LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers are having an amicable breakup.

LeBron's decision to leave the Lakers is a "happiness-led decision" and "not driven by money," according to Shams Charania of ESPN. Maybe that's because the money is pretty much set — the teams looking at him basically will have the (non-taxpayer) mid-level exception of $15.1 million. Maybe the Lakers would have offered more, but not dramatically.

So what will make LeBron happy? My sense is that this is less about happiness and more about respect. LeBron knows how well he played for the Lakers last season, averaging 20.9 points, 7.2 assists and 6.1 rebounds a game and lifting the team past Houston in the playoffs when Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves were out. His reward was being told the franchise was focused on rebuilding around Doncic, and LeBron himself had to take a steep pay cut.

So where does LeBron land? Where does he get the respect he seeks? Here are the three choices on the table.

Golden State Warriors

This is the team that checks the most boxes:

Close to his family in Los Angeles? ✅
Will play meaningful games in a big spotlight? ✅.
Wants him? ✅. (The Warriors have been trying to lure him in for more than a year.)

About the money, after agreeing to a new two-year, $40 million contract with Kristaps Porzingis, the only way the Warriors can offer the full mid-level exception is to salary-dump Moses Moody in a trade, or get LeBron and Draymond Green to take even less on their new deals. The Warriors have work to do, but they can get there.

The Warriors' ultimate dream reportedly was to pair LeBron, Curry, Green and Anthony Davis — except Washington has no intention of trading Davis, according to Marc Spears of ESPN.

Instead, the core is Curry, LeBron, Green and Jimmy Butler, once he returns from a torn ACL (likely in the middle of the season). If healthy, that group is a tough out in a seven-game playoff series.

Either way, this is a team that might provide the happiness LeBron seeks.

Cleveland Cavaliers

Cleveland has interest in bringing LeBron home, reports Chris Haynes.

LeBron finishing his career where it started makes for a fantastic narrative. Also, LeBron, as the veteran who shows up in big games, playing with Donovan Mitchell, James Harden and Evan Mobley, is a legit threat to win the East.

However, it's going to take a little work to get Cleveland to be able to offer the mid-level exception. If Cleveland wants to do this, it could let Dean Wade walk in free agency (he may be leaving anyway), then salary-dump Max Strus, taking back no salary (it likely costs the Cavs a pick to do that). If Cleveland can do all that, it can offer LeBron the full $15.1 million mid-level exception.

(Some fans have suggested a sign-and-trade with the Lakers, the problem is that any sign-and-trade would hard cap the Cavaliers at the first apron, meaning they would need to trim about another $14 million in salary from the books. That would start to gut the team.)

This can happen. The question is: Does LeBron James want to go home again? Again.

Miami Heat

LeBron James with Giannis Antetokounmpo? The Greek Freak has never been subtle about how much he admires LeBron.

LeBron won a title in Miami but did not exactly part on the best of terms, and there are scars. It's fair to ask if everyone can and is willing to move beyond this.

The reason for Miami to get over it and make this move is simple: The Heat need more talent around Antetokounmpo, and LeBron is still an All-Star-level player, even at age 41. The pairing of LeBron and Antetokounmpo with Bam Adebayo and quality role players is interesting, one that can make some noise in the East.

Financially, the best Miami can offer is the remainder of its mid-level exception, about $10.5 million (it is using part of it to bring back Simone Fontecchio). Is that enough for LeBron?

San Antonio Spurs

It's a massive long shot and pure speculation — and LeBron would be accused of ring chasing — but hear me out.

San Antonio has its mid-level exception, and what they need is someone at the four who can play off Victor Wembanyama, someone who can play inside and out and serve as a secondary playmaker. Plus, LeBron in the locker room would be a great mentor for Wembanyama, Dylan Harper, Stephon Castle and the rest of them. LeBron does make the Spurs title favorites.

It's highly unlikely LeBron packs up and moves to Texas for a year — the sides are not talking, as far as we know — but it's a fun dream.

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Dusty May addresses role of NIL era in Michigan departure, how it can be ‘segue’ to NBA

© Raymond Carlin III-Imagn Images

When Dusty May left Michigan for the Dallas Mavericks just months removed from a national title, speculation grew about how the NIL and transfer portal era in college basketball impacted his decision. He previously made his concerns clear about the landscape.

Speaking with reporters Monday during his introductory press conference, May said the landscape was not a “big reason” for his move to the pros. But he admitted how much things have changed during his coaching career and that he can focus on Xs and Os in the NBA.

May spoke highly of the people in the Mavericks’ facility and said they helped seal his decision as he gets ready to take over the franchise. As he looks ahead to his next chapter, he made it clear his desire to keep his focus on the court rather than issues away from the hardwood.

“I wouldn’t say a big reason,” May said. “The big reason are the people in this facility, first and foremost. It’s much more complicated than it used to be. I love teaching, I love coaching, I love being a part of a team. In college basketball, you don’t get to do near as much of that as you used to. So there are some things that I’m not going to miss about college basketball. But I wouldn’t be here without our players, without our staff. Had an unbelievable 25 [or] 27 years, whatever it’s been, in college athletics.

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“But excited for this opportunity and to do the things – I think we all know, as people, the things you love to do, you typically do them well. So I’m just excited to dive in, spending more time on the things that I enjoy doing every day, and work with passion on.”

Dusty May: ‘NIL era is a segue into the NBA’

By taking the Mavericks’ job, Dusty May became the first active college coach to leave for the NBA since John Beilein left Michigan for the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2019. As a result, he’s the first to do so in the NIL era.

But May argued the modern college landscape with NIL and the transfer portal can make for an easier transition. He also noted the similarities in playing style between the two and how that can set him up for success.

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“When I left FAU to go to Michigan, I felt like that changing landscape and the magnitude of our FAU program was a segue to Michigan,” May said. “And I feel like the last five years of the NIL era is a segue into the NBA where we weren’t coaching professional players, per se, where they’re under contract. But they were getting paid. The same problems – not at the same scale – but similar problems, similar issues, similar challenges. The game is closer than ever. College, NBA, the G-League. Stylistically, they all look very, very similar, if you’re playing modern basketball.

“And as far as all the other things, you’re never ready. It’s like being a parent. You’re never prepared, you’re never ready. But hopefully, you’ve prepared and done everything in your power to tackle all the challenges. The last five years, it’s been a very similar game on and off the court.”

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Cavaliers Reacts Survey: Has Evan Mobley reached his ceiling?

CLEVELAND, OHIO - JANUARY 23: Center Evan Mobley #4 of the Cleveland Cavaliers drives to the basket around center Dylan Cardwell #32 of the Sacramento Kings at Rocket Arena on January 23, 2026 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Cavaliers defeated the Kings 123-118. 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

Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NBA. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Cavaliers fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.

The Cleveland Cavaliers have been stuck between two timelines since the Donovan Mitchell trade back in 2022. They were a young team when that deal was made, but quickly grew into having expectations after acquiring a perennial All-Star talent.

That timeline was bumped up even more when they swapped out Darius Garland for a decade older James Harden. That move allowed the Cavs to advance to the conference finals for the first time since 2018, but also significantly impacted their runway for sustained success.

Even Mobley’s ascendance as a rookie is one of the contributing factors that led to the Cavs parting with their draft capital to land Mitchell. That said, he hasn’t grown into the player Cleveland has needed him to be to get through the Eastern Conference. There were many at the time who hoped Mobley would take the reins and become the best player on a contender.

Mobley has proven to be a great player at 25 years old. You don’t accidentally become a Defensive Player of the Year and an All-NBA Player without being great. However, it’s fair to wonder if Mobley is going to keep progressing into the superstar big that many hoped he would become as recently as a year ago. And if he doesn’t, can the Cavs become a championship-level team?

This week’s question is simple. Has Evan Mobley reached his ceiling as a player? Or can his game still reach another level?

Let us know in the survey below, and tell us why you voted how you did in the comments.

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Updated Sixers 2026-27 roster as NBA free agency begins

CAMDEN, NJ - JUNE 25: President of Basketball Operations Mike Gansey, Labaron Philon Jr. #00, and Head Coach Nick Nurse of the Philadelphia 76ers pose for a photo during the Philadelphia 76ers press conference introducing Labaron Philon Jr. on June 25, 2026 at the Philadelphia 76ers Training Complex in Camden, NJ 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 2026 NBA Draft is over, and free agency is underway. With all the comings and goings throughout the league overall, it can be hard to keep up with who is actually on the Philadelphia 76ers roster from day to day.

So, use our tracker below to help you stay up-to-date on the Sixers’ roster as free agency (and the offseason as a whole) continues!

Current Sixers’ standard roster (14 of 15 filled)

Updated 7/2/26 at 3 p.m. ET

Dominick Barlow, F

Adem Bona, C (fully non-guaranteed)

Johni Broome, C

Jaylen Brown, F

VJ Edgecombe, G

Justin Edwards, G

Joel Embiid, C

Ariel Hukporti, C

Tyrese Maxey, G

Labaron Philon Jr., G (No. 22 pick of 2026 NBA Draft)

Anfernee Simons, G

Dalen Terry, G (fully non-guaranteed)

Dean Wade, F

Jabari Walker, F

Current Sixers’ two-way contracts (0 of 3 filled)

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Grading Clippers, Raptors Kawhi Leonard swap: Which team won the trade?

Breaking news just keeps coming out of Los Angeles. On the day where the topic of conversation has been LeBron James and his decision to not return to the Lakers, the other LA team got busy in the headlines.

The Los Angeles Clippers executed a deal with the Toronto Raptors to send them Kawhi Leonard in exchange for Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, two first-round picks, one pick swap and two second-round picks, according to multiple reports.

Leonard is coming off a career year where he averaged 27.4 points per game in his 14th NBA season. He returns to the Raptors, a familiar scene for Leonard, who won the 2019 championship and Finals MVP in Toronto.

As for LA, they lose a bonafide superstar but also bring back a player familiar with the area. Ingram was drafted by the Lakers as the No. 2 overall selection in the 2016 NBA Draft and now returns to southern California a decade later. Additionally, they bring in Dick, who has high basketball IQ, moves without the ball and can knock down 3-pointers at an elite level.

The cherry on top is all of the picks that Clippers accumulated: two firsts, two seconds and an added pick swap.

The Clippers lose star power, but Ingram and Dick will prove to be good fits around Darius Garland and Benedict Mathurin, who arrived midseason last year following trades. Appearing in 77 games during the 2025-26 season, Ingram averaged 21.5 points on 47.7% shooting, including 38% from 3-point distance.

It's rare that trades actually benefit both team and address areas of need. This is one those rare cases. USA TODAY Sports grades the blockbuster swap.

More: Clippers roster and starting lineup after Kawhi Leonard trade

Kawhi Leonard trade details

  • Raptors receive: Kawhi Leonard
  • Clippers receive: Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, unprotected first-round picks in 2031 and 2033, second-round picks in 2030 and 2033 and a 2027 first-round swap

USA TODAY Sports grades Raptors-Clippers trade

Toronto Raptors: A-

This move couldn't have come at a better time. Somehow the Raptors have done it again. They built their team and developed their players to the point where they were one piece away from winning the NBA title, or at least being in contention.

I'm talking about 2019. But seven years later, it's like Toronto ran the same exact play. They built through the draft and trades. Leonard will join a team that includes a supporting cast of Scottie Barnes, RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley.

The team is coming off a 46-36 season that was good enough for the No. 5-seed in the Eastern Conference. It was the Raptors' first playoff appearance since 2022, but they were eliminated in the first round by the Cleveland Cavaliers in seven games.

Adding a player like Leonard only adds to their ceiling. I'm not buying that the team is an immediate title contender, but they will startle some teams. If Leonard, 35, remains healthy, we could see another championship run in T-Dot.

It's definitely a "win-now" move as the Raptors take on an aging superstar to maximize their current championship window.

Los Angeles Clippers: B

Never a fan of shipping a superstar, but if you get ideal pieces in return, it's a good move. The Clippers didn't shop with the Raptors to leave empty handed. In return, they managed to pry Ingram, Dick and additional picks from the Raptors.

It may not appear to move the needle considering the loss of a franchise player, but the Clippers remain interesting as a team that could scare opponents through late April once they put it all together.

Last year, LA's season ended in the NBA Play-In Tournament, losing to the Golden State Warriors courtesy of late-game heroics from Steph Curry. They finished 42-40 after starting the season 5-21.

There are a lot of questions that need answers such as team fit and chemistry, but at their best, this team will find themselves just outside of the top-6 playoff spots and competing in the Play-in Tournament for a second consecutive season.

The Clippers' mix of young players and veterans is a recipe for success.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY Sports: Grading Clippers, Raptors Kawhi Leonard swap: Which team won the trade?

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LeBron Sweepstakes: Which Landing Spots Offer Best Title Odds?

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As the basketball world awaits LeBron James' free-agency decision, NBA championship odds show which of his potential suitors have the best chance to win next season's title.

Key Takeaways

  • The Golden State Warriors are the betting favorites to land James.

  • Of all teams linked to the superstar, the Minnesota Timberwolves and Cleveland Cavaliers have the best title odds.

  • The Lakers fell to +4,500 in odds after it was announced James would be departing.

James and the Los Angeles Lakers confirmed the end of their eight-year tenure Tuesday, when free-agent negotiations are allowed to begin. This marks the fourth time that James is leaving his team, following stints with the Cleveland Cavaliers (2003-10 and 2014-18), Miami Heat (2010-14), and the Lakers (2018-26).

News of James’ departure sent the Lakers plummeting to +4,500 in FanDuel's odds to win the NBA Finals - good for just 14th in the league.

Reports suggest the Golden State Warriors, Washington Wizards, Cavaliers, and Heat could be interested in his services.

The Athletic’s Jon Krawczynski also noted that James has been a long-time supporter of Minnesota Timberwolves superstar Anthony Edwards, with whom he won a gold medal at the 2024 Olympics.

The betting favorite in LeBron James’ next team odds, the Warriors, supposedly have the strongest interest in acquiring the 41-year-old. James also reportedly has an interest in playing with former Lakers teammate Anthony Davis alongside Stephen Curry and Draymond Green. 

Even if verbal agreements made over the next week, nothing can become contractually binding until July 6 at 12:01 p.m. ET.

Finals odds for potential suitors

The general assumption is that James will play for a team that has a real chance of securing him a fifth championship of his soon-to-be-24-year career. 

Among the teams linked to James, the Timberwolves and Cavs have the shortest title odds at +2,200. Those odds still only carry a 4.4% implied chance, albeit without James being counted on their rosters.

One of James’ former teams, the Heat, is close behind at +2,700 odds (3.6% chance) following their trade acquisition of Giannis Antetokounmpo. James won back-to-back titles with the Heat in 2012 and 2013.

The Warriors are immediately behind the Heat at +3,000 (3.2% chance). They were crowned NBA champs as recently as 2022.

The Wizards, a largely unexpected team that could be in the mix, have the longest odds among James' apparent suitors at +25,000 (0.4% chance). They just selected AJ Dybantsa with the first pick in the NBA draft, but they also have Anthony Davis on their roster as a means of possibly enticing James to sign on.

Tough road to title No. 5

Among NBA champions since 2015-16, the 2018-19 Raptors had the longest preseason odds, opening at +1,850, according to Sports Odds History. There are only four teams with odds shorter than that at the time of writing: the Oklahoma City Thunder (+270), San Antonio Spurs (+270), Boston Celtics (+700), and New York Knicks (+850), none of which have been linked to James.

James’ worst opening title odds in the last decade were assigned before the 2024-25 season, when his Lakers were only +2,500 (3.9% chance).

The Lakers’ +1,400 odds at this time one year ago would rank fifth among all teams presently.

This article originally appeared on Covers.com, read the full article here and view our best betting sites or check out our top sportsbook promos.

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Did Lakers nail the Austin Reaves contract?

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 16: Austin Reaves #15 of the Los Angeles Lakers looks on during warm ups before the game against the Phoenix Suns at Crypto.com Arena on March 16, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. 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 Meg Oliphant/Getty Images) | 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 Lakers fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.

Austin Reaves has improved every year and is a wonderful success story not just for the Lakers, but for every undrafted player.

Thanks to his improved play each season, he was set for a big payday. While it was reported that the Lakers negotiated hard with Reaves, in the end, he agreed to a four-year, $185 million deal.

This makes Reaves a max player and the clear No. 2 for the franchise. Retaining him was always the best-case scenario, but did they nail the contract?

For our SB Nation Reacts survey this week, we ask fans if the Lakers got the signing right when you look beyond the sticker price.

With reports indicating the Pistons were interested in offering Reaves a deal, perhaps all that matters is re-signing him and whatever that number ended up at is fine. After all, he is a max-level player and even if the ideal contract would be more team-friendly, players at Reaves’ level usually get paid what they want.

So, if that’s how fans are feeling, grading this as an A or a B is fair.

However, if you are skeptical that Reaves can truly be the No.2 without LeBron James on the Lakers to carry him when he falls, then maybe the deal isn’t one you like.

Not only did Reaves get a max contract, but he also has a player option for the final year. So, if it turns out he’s on a bad deal, he’ll likely opt in that summer, and LA will be stuck with the estimated $51.1 million bill. If he outplays that contract, he can opt out and get an even larger raise with the Lakers or another team.

It’s an interesting conversation, and we won’t actually know if it was a good contract for a couple of years. But what are your initial thoughts? Let us know by answering the poll above and leaving a comment below.

You can follow Edwin on Twitter at @ECreates88 or on Bluesky at @ecreates88.bsky.social.

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Fantasy Fallout: Kawhi Leonard reportedly returns to Toronto and Brandon Ingram heads west

After seven seasons in Los Angeles, Kawhi Leonard is headed back to the city where he won his second NBA title. With the Clippers reportedly unwilling to pay him the full two-year max extension that he was eligible for, Leonard has been traded to the Toronto Raptors. Headed in the other direction are Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, two first-round picks, a pick swap and two second-round picks.

After Miami acquired Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Raptors became the second Eastern Conference team to make a significant change to its roster in hopes of contending next season. Meanwhile, the Clippers move forward with a core that's likely to be led by Ingram and Darius Garland. Let's take a look at the fantasy fallout from the most recent major trade in the NBA.

Toronto receives:

Kawhi Leonard

When healthy, Leonard is one of the best all-around players in the NBA. However, since leaving Toronto after the 2019 NBA championship, staying on the floor has been a challenge. He played 57 games or less in four of his seven seasons in Los Angeles, including missing the entire 2021-22 campaign with a knee injury.

However, he has played at least 65 games in two of his last three seasons. 2025-26 ranked among the best of Leonard's career, as he averaged 27.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, 3.6 assists, 1.9 steals and 2.6 three-pointers while shooting 50.5 percent from the field and 89.2 percent from the foul line. Add in a 38.7 percent mark from three, and Leonard was not far off from a 50/40/90 season.

His production from a season ago is likely to boost Leonard's ADP considerably, after many managers waited until the third or fourth round in standard league drafts to select him last fall.

As for how his return to Toronto affects the other fantasy mainstays on the roster, Leonard had a considerably higher usage (33.5) than Ingram did with the Raptors last season (26.9). That may not significantly affect Scottie Barnes, who remains a cornerstone, but Immanuel Quickley and RJ Barrett bear watching.

Quickley's superior three-point shooting to Barrett may give him a better chance of preserving his fantasy value next season. Also, does Ja'Kobe Walter see his opportunities take a hit after a promising end to his second NBA season? That won't change much regarding how he's viewed in dynasty leagues, but the redraft league value may take a hit.

LA Clippers receive:

Brandon Ingram
Gradey Dick
Two unprotected first-round picks (2031 and 2033)
One pick swap (2027)
Two second-round picks (2030 and 2033)

In the short term, Ingram finds himself in a situation where he should be an offensive focal point alongside Darius Garland. However, given his injury history and current contract, it's fair to have some questions about Ingram's long-term fit with the Clippers. He's coming off a season in which he surpassed 70 regular-season games for the second time in his career, but heel surgery sidelined him for most of the playoff series against the Cavaliers.

In 77 games, Ingram averaged 21.5 points, 5.6 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 1.8 three-pointers while shooting 47.7 percent from the field and 82.0 percent from the foul line. In eight-cat formats, his production aligned with his ADP (61), so there wasn't much for fantasy managers to complain about. However, while the move to Los Angeles and last season's production may convince some to reach for Ingram earlier in drafts, the injury history may prevent others from doing the same.

Leonard's exit raises Garland's fantasy ceiling, provided he remains healthy. Bennedict Mathurin, who is a free agent, is another player whose points league value could benefit with a return to the Clippers. As for Gradey Dick, a change of scenery may do him some good after he offered limited production for most of his three seasons in Toronto. His best year in Toronto, 2024-25, was one in which the Raptors were hit hard by injuries. Unless he has a monster preseason, the trade won't change his outlook in fantasy drafts.

The biggest long-term winner in this deal may be rookie Keaton Wagler, whether he projects to play on or off the ball as his career progresses. The Clippers may not go all-in on a rebuild right now, but a realistic look at the Western Conference means that they moved closer to the lottery than to title contention with Tuesday's trade.

And it should be noted that, thanks to the Paul George trade, Oklahoma City can swap 2027 first-round picks with the Clippers.

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Raptors NBA Championship Odds Move to 6% Following Kawhi Leonard Trade

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The Lakers weren't the only team shifting the NBA landscape today. Right alongside the massive LeBron James fallout across town, the Clippers completely shook up the NBA championship odds by shipping Kawhi Leonard back to Toronto for a highly anticipated second stint with the Raptors.

While the Clippers reload with Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, and a hefty haul of future draft picks, Toronto resets its deck for an all-out title push. By leaning back into their 2019 championship blueprint, the Raptors are injecting instant drama into the Eastern Conference hierarchy, laying down a direct challenge to the New York Knicks.

Despite that aspect, this move has increased the Raptors' NBA championship odds to 6% (+1566), but where does that slot them among other contenders?

Let's take a look.

NBA Championship odds 2026-27

Percentages courtesy of Kalshi, one of Covers' most trusted prediction market apps.

Raptors NBA title odds at a glance

KalshiWin Probability
Raptors Raptors+15666%

At 35 years old, Kawhi’s degenerative knee issues and chronic ankle sprains mean his availability is a permanent question mark. Even though he’s coming off a highly productive All-NBA campaign with the Clippers (averaging 27.9 PPG in 65 games), history shows he requires intensive load management just to make it to April intact.

Kawhi is entering the final year of his contract, carrying a massive $50.3 million cap hit. He is reportedly seeking a long-term contract extension beyond this season — something the Clippers refused to offer. Giving up premium foundational assets like Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, and multiple draft picks for an aging, injury-prone superstar on an expiring contract could easily backfire if his health falters.

But rumors indicate that Leonard is highly receptive to the move and is open to signing an extension that would allow him to finish his career where he won his second Finals MVP. Returning to Canada wouldn't just be a temporary rental like 2018; it would be a definitive commitment to play out his remaining elite years and retire in a Raptors uniform.

Raptors projected starting lineup

PositionPlayer
Point guardImmanuel Quickley
Shooting guardRJ Barrett
Small forwardKawhi Leonard
Power forwardScottie Barnes
CenterJakob Poeltl

Kawhi Leonard gives Toronto a terrifyingly well-rounded core alongside Quickley, Barrett, and Barnes. Throw in the versatility of sophomore breakout Collin Murray-Boyles at small-ball center, and the Raptors instantly position themselves to hunt for a top seed in the East.

Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Not intended for use in MA.
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Blazers retain big man Robert Williams III on $44 million contract

Robert Williams III #35 of the Portland Trail Blazers plays defense against the San Antonio Spurs.
Robert Williams III #35 of the Portland Trail Blazers plays defense against the San Antonio Spurs.

The Blazers are keeping their big man.

Center Robert Williams III is staying in Portland, agreeing to a three-year, $44 million extension to remain with the Trail Blazers, ESPN reported Tuesday.

The extension will keep him in Portland through the 2028-29 season.

Williams, 28, has dealt with injury issues throughout his career, having only played over 50 games in a season three times. This past season, Williams played in 59 games and appeared in all five of Portland’s first-round playoff games against San Antonio.

Robert Williams III of the Portland Trail Blazers plays defense against the San Antonio Spurs. NBAE via Getty Images

He averaged 6.7 points, seven rebounds and 1.5 blocks this season and shot over 70 percent from the floor.

Williams has been one of the best rim protectors in the NBA for much of his career, despite his injury history. For his career, he has a 72 percent field goal percentage and has averaged 1.6 blocks per game.

Even before this season, Williams had extensive postseason experience. He spent the first five years of his career in Boston and made six starts in the 2022 NBA Finals, where the Celtics fell to the Warriors.

Rumors had been flying around that Boston would be interested in a potential reunion with Williams, but after making their desire to keep Williams clear, the Blazers locked him down for the next three years.

Alongside Williams, centers Donovan Clingan and Yang Hansen are under contract and will return to Portland next season.

Portland has been active this offseason. Last week, it hired former Timberwolves assistant Micah Nori to be its next head coach, replacing interim coach Tiago Splitter after he was hired by Chicago.

The Blazers also reportedly agreed to trade Jerami Grant and Kris Murray to Memphis in exchange for Ja Morant.

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Clippers finalize deal to trade Kawhi Leonard to Toronto

A photo illustration of Kawhi Leonard in a Toronto Raptors warmup hoodie.
Clippers star Kawhi Leonard led the Toronto Raptors to their only NBA title in 2019. (Photo illustration by Tate Rudisill / Los Angeles Times; photos by Luke Hales / Getty Images, Jason Miller / Getty Images))

The Kawhi Leonard era is over in Los Angeles.

A deal to send the seven-time NBA All-Star forward back to Toronto, where he won his second NBA title, has been finalized, according to a person with knowledge of the situation who is not authorized to speak publicly on the matter.

The trade — which will net the Clippers All-Star forward Brandon Ingram, shooting guard Gradey Dick, two first-round draft picks, a pick swap and two second-round picks — marks the end of another promising-but-empty chapter in the franchise’s ringless history.

Leonard, a Moreno Valley native who won his first title with the San Antonio Spurs in 2014, joined his hometown Clippers as a highly coveted free agent in 2019 after leading Toronto to its first championship in a classic one-and-done season.

“The front office was very transparent, they want to win,” Leonard said at his introductory Clippers news conference on July 24, 2019. “Just the opportunity for us to build our own, to make history — they haven’t been to a final, haven’t won a final — that was something big and exciting for me to make my decision.”

The Raptors were in the same championship-less boat before Leonard saved them. The Clippers, meanwhile, are still trying to get over the hump.

Read more:Plaschke: Clippers' Kawhi Leonard was the worst free-agent signing in L.A. history

Leonard averaged 25.1 points, 6.4 rebounds, 4.1 assists and 1.7 steals over six seasons with the Clippers and was selected to four All-Star teams, four All-NBA teams and two All-Defensive teams. Leonard averaged a career-high 27.9 points while playing 65 games last season.

Yet most will only remember that Leonard’s tenure in the City of Angels netted zero Larry O’Brien trophies and instead plenty of load management and one ongoing salary cap circumvention investigation. The Clippers, of course, have been accused of paying Leonard $28 million through an endorsement deal with bankrupt sustainability company Aspiration.

Whether there was salary cap circumvention or not, L.A. truly went all-in on its latest bid to win a title to no avail, as encapsulated by the infamous Paul George-Shai Gilgeous-Alexander deal that accompanied the launch of the Leonard era.

Unfortunately for the Clippers, Leonard, George and the era’s other big-name players were rarely healthy or at their peaks when the lights were brightest. And in Oklahoma City, Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder to its first title and developed into a two-time league MVP, all before his 28th birthday.

Hindsight is 20/20.

The Clippers, though, did come as close to a ring as ever before, reaching the Western Conference finals for the first time in franchise history in 2021. However, Leonard tore an anterior cruciate ligament during that run and left L.A. and the NBA wondering “What if?” — the everlasting theme of Steve Ballmer’s ownership of the Clippers.

Leonard played at least 65 games just twice over his seven seasons in L.A. and missed the 2021-22 season entirely because of the ACL tear. The Clippers won only three playoff series with Leonard, with no series victories to show for over his final five seasons in L.A.

And in arguably the Clippers’ most healthy playoff run with Leonard — during the 2020 NBA bubble — L.A. blew a 3-1 lead to the Denver Nuggets in the Western Conference semifinals, spoiling a matchup against the Lakers, the ultimate victors of the COVID-shortened season, in the conference finals.

The Clippers' Kawhi Leonard, right, tries to go up for a shot while Warriors guard Stephen Curry, left, reaches for the ball.
Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard tries to go up for a shot while defended by Warriors guard Stephen Curry during a play-in game in April. (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times)

The Clippers had their moments with Leonard, like when he posted a career-best and franchise-record 55 points against the Detroit Pistons in 2025.

If anything, the future Hall of Famer sure appeared to enjoy his time back home, which was a major reason why Leonard initially turned down a royal life in Canada to play for Southern California’s other team.

But it was ultimately time for the two parties to part ways. The Clippers’ window of contention closed a while ago, and Leonard — after turning 35 on Monday — is likely staring down his last shot at a third ring and a lengthy deal with the Raptors.

Besides free agency opening on Tuesday, the timing does add up for Leonard’s trade, as Clippers president of basketball operations Lawrence Frank has steered the franchise through a refreshing youth movement over the past year.

“Yeah, plan’s still win with Kawhi,” Frank said last week. “But the bigger plan is — we understand we’re not a contender. We’re competitive. How are we going to get back to contention?”

During the 2025-26 season alone, L.A. sent a 40-year-old Chris Paul into retirement; traded 36-year-old guard James Harden to Cleveland for 26-year-old guard Darius Garland; traded 29-year-old center Ivica Zubac to the Indiana Pacers for two first-round picks, a second-round pick, 24-year-old center Isaiah Jackson and 24-year-old guard Bennedict Mathurin; and liked what it saw from up-and-comers such as center Yanic Konan Niederhauser and guards Kobe Sanders and Jordan Miller.

And just last week, the Clippers selected 19-year-old Illinois guard Keaton Wagler fifth overall in the draft — via the Zubac trade — instead of packaging the pick for a veteran star.

Read more:NBA draft: Clippers select Keaton Wagler at No. 5; AJ Dybantsa goes No. 1

“You can learn a lot. Like you said, he has a lot of experience,” Wagler said of possibly playing with Leonard. “He’s won championships and played in finals and won a lot of games and played a lot of seasons. Just being able to learn from him and see what it takes to become that caliber of a player.”

Presumably a bummer for Wagler, he and Leonard will not be teammates in L.A.

Leonard’s last game with the Clippers was symbolic of his tenure with the franchise. In a home play-in loss to the Warriors on April 15, L.A. led Golden State for most of that contest — and by as much as 13 — before Leonard and his running mates went cold late, ending their fun season early.

“Let me cry about this loss a little bit more,” Leonard said about his future with the Clippers after that blunder. “We’re going to have our discussions when that time comes.”

Staff writer Broderick Turner contributed to this report.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.

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Nets two-ways take shape as they decline Tyson Etienne’s QO

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - APRIL 05: Tyson Etienne #10 of the Brooklyn Nets gestures after scoring a three-point basket in the fourth quarter against the Washington Wizards at Barclays Center on April 05, 2026 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Pamela Smith/Getty Images) | Getty Images

With the beginning of the NBA’s moratorium period less than 24 hours away, the Brooklyn Nets have officially made decisions on all of their club options.

Chaney Johnson will be back on a two-way contract, and Malachi Smith will be on the team’s training camp roster. Josh Minott and Day’Ron Sharpe, respectively, earned extensions, and Ziaire Williams, Jalen Wilson, and Ochai Agbagi are now unrestricted free agents, the likelhood of their return to Brooklyn at least in question.

According to one league source speaking with ND, the Nets have also declined to extend a QO — qualifying offer to Tyson Etienne, who spent the last two seasons with Brooklyn’s organization, played 24 NBA games last season, and became the Long Island Nets’ all-time leading scorer.

Etienne, set to turn 27 in December, appeared in 24 NBA games for Brooklyn last season (two starts), while averaging 7.9 points, 1.7 assists and 1.1 rebounds in 15.8 minutes while shooting 40% from the field and knocking down 39.8% of his 3-point attempts.

This doesn’t necessarily mean that Etienne won’t be returning to Brooklyn, but they will not have his restricted rights.

Currently, the Nets have two of their three two-way spots occupied with Chaney Johnson and second-round rookie Tyler Bilodeau, both of whom will play in both summer leagues, the California Classic in Sacramento and the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas. The California Classic begins Saturday at 5:00 p.m. ET. It will air on YES and the Gotham Sports Net.

Johnson, 24, played in 17 NBA games for Brooklyn last season (one start) and averaged 8.2 points, 1.4 stocks and 4.6 rebounds while shooting 54.3% from the field and 30% from beyond the arc in 20.5 minutes.

Bilodeau, on the other hand, earned a two-way deal right after being selected at No. 43 overall. Sean Marks & co. have already gathered eight players on rookie contracts and as they have in the recent past, Brooklyn has inked their second round picks to two way deals to save on roster spots and cap space. Two-ways can be active on NBA rosters for up to 50 games before their teams have to either convert them to standard deals or waive them.

While it isn’t yet certain, the expectation is that Grant Nelson, still rehabbing from patellar tendinitis, which cut his season short, will earn the Nets’ final two-way spot.

Before the injury, he thrived on a minutes restriction with the Long Island Nets, averaging 24 points and 12 rebounds per 36 minutes, prompting him to earn a 10-day contract with Brooklyn.

On a 10-day contract, he played 35 minutes, tallying 17 points, six rebounds, six assists, and three blocks. It was initially a surprise that he didn’t get a second 10-day before the news of his injury came out.

As he continues to rehab, he will not play in either Summer League; but he is on the Nets Summer League roster and will be with the team, unlike Nolan Traoré, who won’t after getting his knee scoped recently.

With one two-way still available, Nelson’s recovery process leading up to training camp will be something Nets fans should certainly monitor.

In addition to the three two-ways, the Nets had signed at least three undrafted players to Exhibit 10 deals which virtually assures they too will be spending time on Long Island after a stint in training camp come October. All three are also on the Summer League roster.

Brian Lewis reported that the Nets had signed Dion Brown a 6’3” guard who most recently played for St. Louis University and Jon Chepkevich of Draft Express reported Ben Humrichous, a 6’9” combo forward who came off the bench for Illinois last year. Finally, Dylan Johnson of The Villanovan, the student newspaper, reported Wildcat center Duke Brennan will be joining the Nets.

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Pistons’ Marcus Sasser linked to Mavs in potential trade

DETROIT, MI - MAY 17: Marcus Sasser #25 of the Detroit Pistons dribbles the ball during the game against the Cleveland Cavaliers during Round Two Game Seven of the 2026 NBA Playoffs on May 17, 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

Marcus Sasser has seemingly spent his entire career as the odd man out in the Detroit Pistons rotation. As a scoring guard with a good floater game and a reliable three-point shot, he’s always been useful and performed well. However, because he’s a 6-foot-1 off-guard without the ability to orchestrate an offense, it’s always been tough to find him minutes on the floor.

Now, it looks like he might get a fresh start within a context where he more naturally fits, and he could be sent closer to home to boot.

“The Mavericks have emerged a leading suitor to acquire Detroit’s Marcus Sasser via trade, league sources tell @TheSteinLine,” Marc Stein wrote on social media.

Sasser averaged 5.2 points and 12 minutes per game across 38 games for the Pistons last season. He was often a healthy scratch as Detroit relied primarily on Cade Cunningham and Daniss Jenkins at point guard, and a mix of Duncan Robinson, Javonte Green, Jaden Ivey, and Caris LeVert at shooting guard last season.

When Sasser did get minutes, he shot reliably from three, hitting 41%. He also helped unstick a wobbly offense in the playoffs in the Cleveland Cavaliers series.

Any deal would be a pure financial play for the Pistons, freeing up his $5.2 million salary obligation. The Mavericks would be taking a low-cost flier on a player in the final season before restricted free agency with an eye toward having his rights in case he is worth investing in further.

Sasser is also a native of Red Oak, Texas, where he grew up and played high school ball. Red Oak is roughly 30 minutes south of Dallas. He also went on to be a four-year star player at the University of Houston.

Whether this deal remains small — you take my surplus player, you give me salary relief via a second-round pick — or a large deal — Dallas is thought to be willing to shop big men such as Daniel Gafford or PJ Washington, and Detroit is staring down big potential holes if one or both of Jalen Duren or Tobias Harris were to play elsewhere — remains to be seen.

Free agency begins today at 6 p.m., and I expect we’ll see some resolution on what the future of the Detroit Pistons looks like.

But it does look Sasser has likely played his final game for the team he’s play for his entire NBA career thus far.

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Clippers reportedly finalizing trade to send Kawhi Leonard to Toronto for Brandon Ingram, picks

In 2019, Kawhi Leonard wanted out of San Antonio, and Toronto stepped up and traded for him, knowing full well that he would not sign an extension to stay north of the border because he wanted to play in his native Southern California. Toronto got a ring out of taking that roll of the dice.

Now, Leonard is headed back to Toronto specifically because the Raptors are willing to offer him a massive extension.

The Clippers and Rockets are finalizing a trade that sends Leonard back to Toronto for a package centered around All-Star Brandon Ingram and picks, a story simultaneously broken by ESPN’s Shams Charania and basketball insider Chris Haynes.

The deal shakes out like this:

Toronto receives: Kawhi Leonard
The LA Clippers receive: Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, two first-round picks, a pick swap, two second-rounder picks
Note: The details of this trade are not finalized and things like the picks could change.

The Raptors and Leonard are reportedly talking about a two-year contract extension beyond this season. Leonard was available for a trade because he and the Clippers could not reach terms on an extension — Los Angeles would not give him the years or money he wanted. The Clippers were already pivoting to a new era and had traded away James Harden and Ivica Zubac.

This is a win-now move for Toronto — just like it was last time Toronto brought in Leonard (and it paid off then). Toronto now has a dominant forward lineup with All-Stars Scottie Barnes and Leonard, an elite combination if Leonard can stay healthy. Barnes is a big Leonard fan — when asked who he wanted most as a teammate, he said Leonard.

Toronto also has RJ Barrett, Immanuel Quickley, Collin Murray-Boyles and some depth. It's a roster that could do damage if they get the Leonard from last season, when he was largely healthy and averaged a career-high 27.9 points per game to go along with 6.4 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.9 steals a night.

The Clippers get their books cleaned up and have some flexibility in the future to rebuild their roster around Darius Garland and the just-drafted Keaton Wagner.

Most important to the Clippers are the draft picks, they now control six future first-round picks, whether they ultimately use them or trade them. There also is the looming Aspiration investigation into the Clippers allegedly circumventing the salary cap to pay Leonard. If found guilty, the Clippers will likely face punishment that includes losing their own picks, but the league cannot take away the picks they traded for. (Do not expect Leonard to face much punishment from the league, outside of maybe fines.)

Garland and Ingram give the Clippers plenty of shot creation next season as well — this is not a team bottoming out and tanking. The Clippers have cleared about $23 million in cap space and can make other moves.

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Warriors fans overwhelmingly approve the Yaxel Lendeborg draft pick

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - JUNE 26: The Golden State Warriors 2026 first and second round draft picks Yaxel Lendeborg (L) and Lajae Jones (R) cheer court side during the Golden State Valkyries and Atlanta Dream WNBA game at Chase Center on June 26, 2026 in San Francisco, California. 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 Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Golden State Warriors fans appear to be fully on board with the team’s decision to select Michigan forward Yaxel Lendeborg with the No. 11 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft.

In the latest SB Nation Reacts Survey, 61% of voters gave the selection an “A” grade, while another 29% handed out a “B.” Altogether, 90% of respondents gave the pick a positive grade, with just 10% rating the selection as a “C” or worse.

Throughout the pre-draft process, Lendeborg steadily emerged as one of the prospects most frequently connected to the Warriors. By the time Golden State was on the clock, many analysts viewed the versatile forward as the best player available and a perfect fit for the team’s roster.

Lendeborg was one of the most accomplished players in college basketball last season, earning Big Ten Player of the Year honors while helping lead Michigan to a national championship. He averaged 15.1 points for the Wolverines along with 6.8 rebounds, 3.2 assists, 1.1 steals, and 1.2 blocks per game, showcasing the all-around skill set that made him one of the most NBA-ready prospects in this year’s draft class.

Meanwhile, the Warriors have a clear need for young players who can contribute immediately. With Jimmy Butler and Moses Moody both expected to miss time next season while recovering from significant leg injuries, there is a clear pathway for the 6-foot-9 forward to earn meaningful minutes in head coach Steve Kerr’s rotation thanks to his versatility and NBA-ready size.

But the excitement surrounding Lendeborg extends beyond his on-court fit. The rookie has quickly become a fan and team favorite thanks to the personality he has shown since arriving in the Bay Area. Lendeborg has come across as someone who is authentic and open to saying whatever is on his mind. One minute he’s discussing his admiration for Stephen Curry; the next, he’s joking that he “used to hate” the Warriors superstar because he grew up rooting for Kyrie Irving. Not to mention, the Michigan-Michigan State rivalry has already sparked some playful trash talk between Lendeborg and former Spartans star Draymond Green.

The rookie’s fit becomes even more intriguing when considering the Warriors are not done making moves this offseason. Should Golden State find a way to add another marquee player through free agency (Perhaps a former four-time NBA champion and rival to the Bay Area), Lendeborg’s willingness to embrace an energy role and impact games without needing the ball could make him one of the most important complementary pieces on the roster.

For the latest Warriors odds and NBA futures, check out FanDuel Sportsbook.