MILWAUKEE, WI - OCTOBER 14: Pete Nance #35 of the Milwaukee Bucks boxes out during the game against the Chicago Bulls on October 14, 2026 at Fiserv Forum Center in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. 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 Gary Dineen/NBAE via Getty Images). | NBAE via Getty Images
The Milwaukee Bucks have made the first of two moves needed to trim their roster to 15 standard contracts ahead of the 4:00 p.m. CT deadline on October 19, requesting waivers on Pete Nance, Johni Broome, and Jake Stephens. The Bucks announced the news via a media release and also on X:
We have requested waivers on Pete Nance, Johni Broome and Jake Stephens.
Nance is once again the odd man out, being cut at least in part because of his non-guaranteed contract. On the court, he’d become a fan favourite and solid glue guy who always made the right play. Playing a career-high 47 games (including six starts) last season for Milwaukee, Nance averaged 5.4 PPG, 2.7 RPG, and 1.0 APG on .515/.420/.364 splits. His standout performance came in April against the Houston Rockets, where he hit 5/9 three-pointers on his way to 23 points and three rebounds.
While Nance isn’t exactly young and full of upside—he turns 27 in February—he made great strides with the Bucks and was an ideal third-string big, especially as a stretch four. But with so many guaranteed contracts on the team and consolidating trades few and far between, Nance’s time on the standard roster has come to an end. Hopefully, he returns to the team on a two-way deal.
In addition to waiving Nance, the Bucks have also waived Broome and Stephens. Broome signed a training camp deal with Milwaukee on October 6 and was never really expected to challenge for the regular season roster. He featured in one preseason contest, putting up four points and three rebounds against the Chicago Bulls. Stephens, a 26-year-old 7-footer, signed with the Bucks in September and made two preseason appearances, averaging 1.5 PPG and 1.0 RPG in 5.3 MPG.
The Bucks now have 16 players on standard contracts, meaning they must still waive another player—or make a two-for-one trade—prior to opening day.
The Lakers played five preseason games. They had more practices than they’ll have all season. So, what have we learned about the team over the last few weeks?
With nine new players, the Lakers will have some kinks to work out. But there’s a lot to be excited about as Luka Doncic attempts to win the Purple-and-Gold their 18th title.
1. The Big 3 has a ton of potential, but it’s going to take time
Right now, patience is key.
Don’t forget that it took the Lakers until last spring to figure out how to be successful with their Big 3 of Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves and LeBron James.
Well, that process has begun all over again. James is out. And Walker Kessler is in. So, the calendar has been reset.
The Lakers are hoping they can figure things out much quicker this time around. Everyone has distinct roles. Kessler should perfectly complement Doncic and Reaves with his elite rebounding and rim protection.
That said, don’t expect them to figure things out overnight.
Kessler looked impressive in his preseason debut after playing in only five games last season because of season-ending shoulder surgery. He finished with 11 points on 4-for-6 shooting, nine rebounds, one blocked shot and one steal in the Lakers’ 101-89 exhibition loss to the Warriors on Tuesday.
But Kessler was clearly shaking off rust against Nikola Jokic and the Nuggets in the Lakers’ 121-106 exhibition loss on Friday. He was outscored by the three-time MVP 17-6, and Jokic finished with twice as many assists (eight) as Kessler (four).
That said, it’s obvious that Kessler is going to be a difference-maker for the Lakers when he finds his rhythm following what amounted to be a 347-day stretch between NBA games.
He’s well-liked. He’s a defensive powerhouse. And he’s incredibly driven after the Lakers emptied their cupboard to acquire him, giving up two first-round picks and two first-round picks swaps in a sign-and-trade with the Jazz on top of a four-year, $130 million deal.
“The support system around me with my teammates, the coaching staff, front office, they’re fantastic,” Kessler said. “They’re very vocal about, obviously being a Lakers big, there’s a certain legacy with that, but not to look at it as pressure, more so as an opportunity. So that’s kind of the attitude I’m going in with it.”
Walker Kessler (14) of the Los Angeles Lakers blocks a shot during a game against the Denver Nuggets at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, Friday, Oct. 16, 2026. NBAE via Getty Images
2. Time to get excited about Mamu
Sandro Mamukelashvili raises the Lakers’ offensive ceiling.
He has surpassed expectations this preseason. He has been one of the biggest standouts.
He averaged 13.4 points, 4.2 rebounds and 3.4 assists while shooting 55.6% from the field and 54.2% from beyond the arc.
Lakers coach JJ Redick praised him for being a “really quick decision-maker.” Reaves added that “good things happen” when he brings the ball up the floor.
“He’s a good basketball player, so we’re very excited for what he brings to the team,” Reaves said.
Sandro Mamukelashvili (54) of the Los Angeles Lakers drives to the basket during a game against the Denver Nuggets at Crypto.Com Arena in Los Angeles, Friday, Oct. 16, 2026. NBAE via Getty Images
3. Ziaire Williams has a lot of potential
Williams only played in two preseason games because of a left foot contusion, but he made quite an impression.
He shot 5-for-5 from beyond the arc. He averaged 13.5 points. And he showed glimmers of what he can do on the defensive end.
If the 25-year-old can become the reliable, athletic and lockdown perimeter defender the Lakers have desperately wanted, he could change their ceiling.
Williams is the type of player the Lakers need. And the competitive Lakers can give him the opportunity he has always wanted following two seasons with the flailing Nets. This has the potential to be a great marriage.
They waived Bruce Brown on Saturday, meaning it will be center James Wiseman who takes the 14th and final roster spot.
They only had room to keep 14 players on the roster in order to stay under the second apron. It set up a competition in training camp and the preseason among five veterans — Wiseman, Brown, Drew Eubanks, Tony Bradley and Ochai Agbaji — for that spot.
That competition came down to Wiseman and Brown as the final two.
New York Knicks guard Bruce Brown (1) and Toronto Raptors forward Collin Murray-Boyles (30) battle for the ball during the second half of a preseason game in Toronto, Tuesday, Oct. 13, 2026. Nathan Denette/The Canadian Press via AP
Ideally, the Knicks would have liked to keep both Wiseman and Brown. But that would have required making a trade to clear up cap space and they have so far been unable to find a deal, The Post’s Stefan Bondy reported.
The Knicks can still bring Brown back if they are able to make a trade. The two most likely candidates are Pacôme Dadiet and Tyler Kolek, though they’d likely have to give up draft capital in order for a team to take on Dadiet’s contract, and Kolek has little value around the league.
So for now, Brown is free to sign elsewhere.
Wiseman, the No. 2 pick in the 2020 draft, now gets a shot to resurrect his career with the defending champions. He played a total of just five games the last two years after tearing his Achilles in the first game of the 2024 season.
New York Knicks center James Wiseman (35) dunks the ball in the second half of a preseason game at Madison Square Garden, Thursday, Oct. 8, 2026, in New York. Corey Sipkin for the NY POST
After failing to live up to expectations with the Warriors, Wiseman had brief stints with the Pistons and Pacers. Given his athleticism and former stature as a top prospect, he had the most upside in the competition — but also represented the biggest unknown.
He will fill the role that Ariel Hukporti — who left for the 76ers, but is out for the year after tearing his Achilles in the preseason — served last year as the third-string center. With Towns’ bad habit of getting into foul trouble, it’s a role that certainly is important.
Knicks coach Mike Brown, who was an assistant with the Warriors when Wiseman was there, has been a fan of Wiseman’s.
“He’s young, he’s talented, he’s raw, still,” Brown said. “I think he’s still trying to establish a foothold in this league. But with the God-given attributes he has, in terms of athleticism and length and quickness, [that] can bode well for him on both ends of the floor. And at 25 years old, he hasn’t even reached his prime, especially knowing he hadn’t played a ton of basketball.”
Bruce Brown, who has been a useful bench piece in the league, became a victim of the NBA’s apron system — which has made it harder for the middle class of players and veterans like him to fill bench roles. The Knicks, with their starting lineup all commanding significant money, had little money to spend on bench players and remain under the second apron. Many contenders like the Knicks are forced to fill out their bench as cheaply as possible.
“I was very surprised,” Brown previously told The Post about the lack of interest in him during free agency. “I played every single game last year, played meaningful minutes the whole year. Thought I did decently or good enough in my role that I was given. But when free agency started, that wasn’t the case.”
The Knicks had clear interest in him, however.
But, unless they manage to make a move, the apron system means they can’t keep him.
Warriors coach Steve Kerr appeared to do a double-take after spotting his “doppelgänger” sitting in the stands across from him during a preseason game.
As Golden State took the court against Los Angeles Lakers Tuesday at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Kerr’s lookalike was seen finding his seat a few rows behind the Warriors bench.
Steve Kerr’s lookalike appeared at a preseason game in Las Vegas Tuesday. X/Polymarket HoopsThe real Kerr appeared to stare into the stands. X/Polymarket Hoops
A viral video posted on X shows Kerr turning around and staring into the stands where his twin was seated.
Fans had a good laugh at the double-up.
“I was like ‘Why in the hell is Steve making his way to a floor seat with a beer, what in the hell announcement did I miss???!!!’ a user wrote on X.
“Steve Kerr probably thought: ‘What am I doing in the audience!?’ another joked.
Steve Kerr was visibly confused seeing a complete doppelganger of himself at a game pic.twitter.com/mcADHYNkDY
During that game, Kerr acknowledged his lookalike.
“We had eyes quickly and then he gave me like a fist pump… it was nice for him to be that gracious to do anything. I didn’t expect anything,” Gillis told Fox Sports at the time.
Roger Federer poses for a photo with Steve Gillis. Courtesy Steve GillisKerr has managed the Warriors for over 12 years and led them to four NBA championships. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
Tennis legend Roger Federer also happened to be at the game, approaching Gillis and snapping selfies with him.
“He takes three selfies with me. And then he pats me on the shoulder and says, ‘Thanks.’ …The fact that he was so gracious and nice about it, I’m thinking, ‘I wonder if he knew I wasn’t Steve Kerr?'” he said.
Kerr has managed the Warriors for over 12 years and led them to four NBA championships. He also won five titles as a player and holds the highest three-point shooting percentage in NBA history.
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The Knicks were unable to finalize a trade to make room on the roster and were forced to waive guard Bruce Brown ahead of the regular season, the team announced Saturday.
New York liked Brown, who survived preseason cuts following Thursday's preseason finale, but it needed to trade a player on a standard contract to remain below the second apron if it wanted to keep both Brown and James Wiseman -- the final roster spot selection.
Unfortunately, the Knicks couldn't find a trade partner.
It wasn't for a lack of trying, though. SNY's Ian Begley reported earlier in the week that New York would "explore all avenues" to keep Brown and Wiseman and mentioned that it was "logical to assume" that Pacome Dadiet would be a player the Knicks would try to move. Tyler Kolek's name was also mentioned as a possible trade candidate.
Since New York couldn't send any money in a deal, it needed to include draft picks (the Knicks have 11 second-round picks over the next seven drafts). But even that substantial capital wasn't enough to make a trade, which meant New York had to say goodbye to Brown.
In theory, the Knicks could still make a trade after the first game and then bring Brown back. But for the season opener, Brown will not be a Knick
Brown, 30, has played eight NBA seasons with six different teams, most recently with the Denver Nuggets, where he averaged 7.9 points and 2.1 assists in 24.4 minutes per game. In preseason with the Knicks, the veteran saw action in three games (one start) and totaled 11 points, five rebounds and three assists across 38 minutes on the court.
Wiseman saw action in four preseason games with the Knicks and combined for 32 points and 17 rebounds in 46 minutes. He also added three blocks. His best game came in his lone start against the Toronto Raptors, where he had a double-double (18 points, 10 rebounds) in 24 minutes.
A former No. 2 overall pick by the Golden State Warriors in the 2020 NBA Draft, Wiseman got off to a strong start with the Warriors before a severe knee injury cost him a year and a half and derailed his career. He returned to Golden State in 2022-23 in a much more limited role before he was traded to the Detroit Pistons, where he excelled once again for the remainder of the season.
Following another year with the Pistons as a bench player, Wiseman joined the Indiana Pacers but tore his Achilles in the first game of the season and was out for the year. Last season, Wiseman played in just four games.
Still, at just 25 years old, the Knicks saw potential in the 6-foot-11 big man and signed him to an Exhibit 9 contract prior to training camp and he impressed enough during the preseason to beat out players like Drew Eubanks and Tony Bradley.
DETROIT, MI - OCTOBER 5: Khaman Maluach #10 of the Phoenix Suns drives to the basket during the game against the Detroit Pistons during a preseason game on October 5, 2026 at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Chris Schwegler/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
The regular season for the Phoenix Suns is right around the corner, with only a few days remaining before the 82-game marathon begins. And if you were to ask people around the league, particularly those outside the Valley of the Sun, how they believe Phoenix will perform this season, many would probably point to the 38.5-win total set by FanDuel as an appropriate expectation. Why? Because much of the conversation surrounding the Suns has centered on their depleted center position following Mark Williams’ injury last month. Granted, that line was established before Williams suffered the injury, but his absence has since become another justification for national pundits projecting a relatively modest season for Phoenix.
With Williams sidelined, we’ve been given an opportunity to watch two young players compete for the chance to earn the starting center position. And who does the Suns community believe should get the nod? According to our latest Bright Side Reacts survey, 67% believe Khaman Maluach, the second-year big man out of Duke, should be the starting center for Phoenix.
Personally, I think this is a tricky decision. Oso Ighodaro brings a level of stability to the starting lineup, and he’s somebody whose presence tends to elevate the players around him. For a group that’s going to need additional facilitation and connectivity offensively, I believe Ighodaro starting is probably the most likely outcome we’ll see from head coach Jordan Ott.
But Ott has demonstrated throughout the preseason that he’s willing to give Maluach an opportunity as well. In two games against the San Antonio Spurs, a team featuring Victor Wembanyama and all 7’6” of him, Maluach received the starting nod. And in the preseason finale? Man Man got the start again.
Does that mean he’s outplaying Ighodaro and earning the position? Or is Ott simply gathering as much information as possible before making his final decision? Because if Maluach does end up starting for the majority of the season, it represents an excellent opportunity for his development. He’s a lottery pick with the potential to take a meaningful leap in his second year, but that growth isn’t going to happen without consistent opportunities to play meaningful minutes.
I know I shouldn’t put too much stock in the preseason because, after all, it’s the preseason. But in my opinion, Maluach impressed. He adds a layer to the defensive side of the ball that we haven’t seen in Phoenix in quite some time. He’s a true big body in the middle who can deter shots and secure rebounds, providing a physical presence that this team has desperately needed. Is there room for improvement? Absolutely. He’s 20 years old. Nobody’s expecting him to go out there and be prime Shaquille O’Neal. But he’s got the effort, the drive, and the attitude. He possesses the intangibles that can allow him to become successful as he continues developing his game.
We’ll monitor his “restocks” per 36 throughout the season, using rebounds, steals, and blocks per 36 minutes to track his defensive production. And how did he look during the preseason? Pretty damn good.
For a point of reference, Victor Wembanyama averaged 19.2 restocks per 36 minutes last season, and during this preseason, he posted 17.7. Across five preseason appearances, Maluach finished at 16.2.
It’s not a guarantee of anything moving forward, and there’s plenty of development still ahead of him. But it’s a darn good sign and a step in the right direction.
All of that being said, I believe the Suns will ultimately remain flexible based on the matchup. If size is going to be a significant challenge, Maluach probably gets the start. But if Phoenix is preparing to face a team like the Golden State Warriors (who they’ll host for their home opener next Saturday), I wouldn’t be surprised to see Ighodaro get the nod because of what he provides in terms of mobility, facilitation, and defensive versatility.
Ultimately, I think what the fan base wants, and something I wholeheartedly agree with, is for Maluach to develop into somebody who makes this decision a no-brainer. We want him to earn the starting position and excel in that role. Because if that happens, the Suns will have found tremendous value in what could very well be their last lottery selection for the next decade.
Time will tell. And with the regular season beginning Wednesday against the Portland Trail Blazers, we won’t have to wait much longer to see how Jordan Ott approaches the decision.
BOSTON, MA - APRIL 28: The sneakers worn by Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics during the game against the Philadelphia 76ers during Round One Game Five of the 2026 NBA Playoffs on April 28, 2026 at TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
Kevin Durant has never been one to shy away from social media rants.
The 16-time All-Star didn’t hold back when responding to Suns owner Mat Ishbia’s comment on trading for Durant.
Kevin Durant #35 of the Phoenix Suns reacts during the fourth quarter. Charles Wenzelberg/New York Post
“I kind of just threw money at the problem,” Ishbia said of Phoenix’s deal with the Nets to acquire Durant. “Bringing in super-talented players like Kevin Durant doesn’t necessarily lead to championships.”
Durant didn’t take kindly to those words.
“#blameKD even though KD stayed on top of his game at 36 and got u back this “culture” you love so much. Aye, Matthew acts like I got arrested for a DUI or sumn. Back to threads ,” Durant wrote in a post on X.
The Suns parted ways with Durant in July 2025 when they traded him to the Rockets in a seven-team deal. Durant’s tenure in Phoenix was somewhat disappointing given the Suns only won one playoff series and missed the postseason during the 2024-25 season.
Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant, center, holds his jersey after being introduced during an NBA basketball team availability by owner Mat Ishbia, left, and general manager James Jones. AP
The two-time NBA champion averaged 26.8 points, 6.3 rebounds and 4.6 assists across 2 ½ seasons with the Suns. Ahead of the 2025 trade deadline, the Suns were secretly shopping Durant and attempted to orchestrate a multi-team trade to send him back to Golden State.
Kevin Durant #35 of the Phoenix Suns on the court during the first quarter. Charles Wenzelberg/New York Post
Durant found out about the trade talks from outside parties and admitted he was initially upset after the Suns’ front office caught him by surprise. Since then, the relationship between Durant and the Suns was never the same.
WASHINGTON, DC - OCTOBER 12: AJ Dybantsa #4 of the Washington Wizards looks on during the game against the Brooklyn Nets on October 12, 2026 at Capital One Arena in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Kenny Giarla/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
Earlier this week, we had discussions about the Washington Wizards considering a rebrand. And here are the survey results. Forty six percent, or a little less than half of respondents believed that the team needs a new logo, or colors or both.
To me, again, I don’t think a new logo or colors are necessary. And we don’t need a FanDuel wager on this topic either though some other companies will try. Let the winning take care of itself. That’s when every jersey, color and nickname is beautiful.
Suns owner Mat Ishbia detailed this week why he believes acquiring Kevin Durant was a mistake, and the 16-time All-Star responded with a social media post that featured a sarcastic hashtag along with seven crying laughing emojis.
“#blameKD even though KD stayed on top of his game at 36 and got u back this “culture” you love so much,” Durant posted on X while resharing a story containing Ishbia’s quotes.
“Aye, Matthew acts like I got arrested for a DUI or sumn. Back to threads.”
The Suns acquired Durant from the Nets in a trade deadline blockbuster in 2023, sending Mikal Bridges, Cam Johnson, Jae Crowder, four unprotected first-round picks and a first-round pick swap in 2028.
Houston Rockets forward Kevin Durant (7) controls the ball during a game against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Toyota Center in Houston, Texas, Thursday, Oct. 15, 2026. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
KD played two-plus seasons in Phoenix, averaging 26.8 points per game in 145 regular-season appearances.
But the Suns won just one playoff series during Durant’s tenure and missed the playoffs altogether in 2025, leading to his trade to Houston that summer.
“The team was, I think, the eight or nine seed when I bought the team, and we had some good young players,” Ishbia said earlier this week in a CNBC interview. “Can we get over the top? And I basically was told like, ‘Hey, as an owner, stay out of it and give them some money.’ And so I said, ‘Hey, listen, we’ll go into the luxury tax. Go do whatever it takes to try to win a championship.’
“And so we did that. But it was more going and getting Kevin Durant… that was not aligned with my vision. We had a couple of years, and it did not succeed, as we’re well aware of at this point. After that year, I decided to trade Kevin Durant, bring in my GM, bring in a coach, and get extremely involved personally with the type of guy and type of person we want at our organization, not just on the court, but off the court.”
Ishbia, who bought a majority stake in the Suns from Robert Sarver for $2.28 billion in February 2023, upset Durant by trying to trade him at the deadline in 2025. They eventually dealt him to Houston that July for Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, one first-round pick and five second-rounders.
They finished 45-37 and advanced out of the play-in tournament before getting swept by Oklahoma City in the first round of the playoffs.
Phoenix Mercury and Suns owner Mat Ishbia, left, and Mercury CEO Josh Bartelstein talk during a WNBA game at Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona, Sunday, August 16, 2026. Getty Images
“I’m not saying it’s Kevin Durant or not Kevin Durant,” Ishbia said. “I’m not going to go name every one of my players, but we’ve defined what matters to us. We have a thing called the Suns’ DNA, the type of player that we believe in, that we want, and it’s a team that the fans will be proud of.
“Everyone thought we were going to be the worst team in the league last year,” Ishbia said. “We made the playoffs, won 45 games. We’re going to build on that. And so, what I’ve learned, my biggest lesson to kind of come back, one, it’s not positive or negative about Kevin Durant. What it is is we have to define what we’re about in Phoenix and then stick with it and believe in our vision and our path.
“And I didn’t do that at the beginning. I kind of just threw money at the problem. Now I got personally involved with every decision, from the 14th man on the roster to the first man on the roster, every aspect of it, fan experience, players, coaches. I’m putting my heart and soul into it.”
Durant and the Rockets (52-30) were the No. 5 seed in the Western Conference, but they were also bounced in the first round in six games by the Lakers.
“I always had fun out there,” Durant said in August on his Boardroom platform. “I don’t want to undercut my time in Phoenix because I feel like we have some great moments on the court. But I feel as though we were an older group who kind of stuck in our ways as veterans, and veterans kind of like to do their own thing a lot. When you’re a younger group, it’s more of a tight-knit group.
“They’re all learning together, it’s kind of like a college feel, and I think that’s the difference.”
MACAO, CHINA - OCTOBER 11: Sergio de Larrea #55 of the Dallas Mavericks looks on during the game against the Houston Rockets as part of 2026 NBA China Games on October 11, 2026 in Macao, China at Venetian Arena. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Juan Ocampo/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
This week’s poll question centered on preseason expectations with the three players I consider most important to the Dallas Mavericks in the 2026-27 season: Cooper Flagg, Kyrie Irving, and Sergio De Larrea.
Cooper Flagg played in both Macao games against the Houston Rockets where he had one fine game and one very good game, each in limited minutes. Kyrie Irving played in just one contest so far and looked electric. As of this writing, he’s yet to play at the American Airlines Center but might play tonight against the Atlanta Hawks (by the time you’re reading this, that game will be over). Sergio De Larrea’s played in all three games and has looked great.
After our poll, fans seem to agree that De Larrea has outperformed any expectations so far in preseason. Acquired in a weird draft-night trade with both the Knicks and the Lakers, the tall and skinny point guard was a welcome surprise to a team that needed (and still needs) playmakers.
Sergio performed well at Las Vegas Summer League, but I am betting most fans tuned out after Morez Johnson couldn’t play the first two games (and the second was bad). Given how the Mavericks are built at the moment, De Larrea has that rare blend in front of him of opportunity and talent to actually join the Mavericks regular rotation. If you map out who might be playing where and for how long in the upcoming season, it looks hard to slot him in, but I think his shooting and floor vision force the issue. I can’t wait to see what he does given the chance.
On the national front, the SB Reacts poll had to do with guessing the future MVP.
A near majority of voters selected Victor Wembanyama which feels a bit crazy to me. He BARELY hit the game minimum last season. SGA feels like a much safer pick (and he’s the favorite over at FanDuel) and Joker not even being on the board here is nuts.
CLEVELAND, OH - OCTOBER 11: Evan Mobley #4 of the Cleveland Cavaliers is introduced before the game against the Orlando Magic during a 2026 NBA Preseason game on October 11, 2026 at Rocket Arena in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
CLEVELAND — The Cleveland Cavaliers held their annual Wine & Gold scrimmage in front of season ticket holders at Public Auditorium on Saturday morning.
Head coach Kenny Atkinson has mentioned throughout preseason that he was treating this event as the fourth exhibition game, and he was true to his word. The Cavs split into two teams, played a 36-minute game, and had regular NBA refs.
So while this wasn’t an official preseason game, it was their final dress rehearsal before the season tips off on Thursday.
The starters for each team are below. It’s worth pointing out that Sam Merrill, Nae’Qwan Tomlin, and Khalifa Diop did not participate.
Wine
Gold
Donovan Mitchell
James Harden
Meleek Thomas
Tyrese Proctor
Jaylon Tyson
Craig Porter Jr.
Mario Hezonja
Peyton Watson
Jarrett Allen
Evan Mobley
Gold dominated this game from start to finish, winning 96-82. They jumped out to an early lead thanks to strong showings from Harden and Mobley. Wine couldn’t contain the Harden and Mobley pick-and-roll, which led to easy paint touches for Mobley and his teammates.
Wine’s perimeter defense struggled throughout. And while Mitchell did his part offensively, it wasn’t enough to make the game competitive down the stretch.
“I felt like they were giving up layup after layup after layup and then paint points and it’s like, at a certain point, you gotta him them and make them aware that’s not acceptable,” Atkinson said afterward.
There were no official stats, but the consensus was that Mobley was the leading scorer. He hit a few threes, attacked the basket continually, and overall had a strong all-around game.
“Evan was elite,” Atkinson said.
Atkinson singled out Harden and Mitchell for having good games, but he was quick to point out that Mitchell was part of Wine’s defense, which was a problem. Tyson also got a mention from Atkinson afterwards for his offensive production.
The game wasn’t the only noteworthy thing that took place at Public Auditorium on Saturday. At halftime, several fans and some members of the Cavs participated in a half-court conference. Porter and Allen missed their attempts, but Atkinson nailed a half-court shot as the final contestant.
The #Cavs held a halfcourt shot contest for $10k during the Wine and Gold Scrimmage. When no one could make it, players started trying.
Then head coach Kenny Atkinson stepped up and nailed his attempt, winning all 20 contestants $500 gift cards and getting his team hyped 😂 pic.twitter.com/VQFFo011T2
After the game, rookies Thomas and Ernest Udeh Jr. were forced to sing karaoke.
#Cavs Meleek Thomas and Ernest Udeh Jr. gave the Wine and Gold Scrimmage crowd a show for their rookie performance, singing Katy Perry's "California Gurls" 😂 pic.twitter.com/4E6jeFU1tK
Anything bought from the links helps support Fear the Sword. You can buy the Guardians throwback shirt HERE. You can also shop all of Homage’s Cleveland gear HERE.
You don’t want to take too much from a scrimmage that some guys wore sweatpants in, but there were a few observations worth pointing out.
First, this was the best Mobley has played this preseason. Offensively, he effectively attacked off the dribble by pushing the ball off live rebounds and operating at the top of the arc in isolation. This was on top of doing a good job defensively of keeping Wine from getting to the rim.
Most importantly, Mobley looked comfortable paired with Harden.
“I like it,” Mobley said when asked about playing alongside Harden more. “I think we’re trying to build a lot of two-man games and more camaraderie. I like the play that we had, and I think the more that we play together, we’re just going to have more and more chemistry.”
Mobley’s two-man game with Harden was impressive. Mobley did a good job making contact on the screen and rolling hard in the pick-and-roll. Both of which are necessary to create space when paired with Harden. The duo also ran a few inverted pick-and-rolls with Harden as the screener that produced good results.
“James has been great in pick-and-rolls and setting up big men for a long time,” Mobley said.
“I love what I’m seeing from Evan and James,” Atkinson echoed. “[They’re] really starting to get on the same page. I think that’s part of Evan being in the paint more. James missed him a few times at the rim today, but the intent is there.”
Atkinson has hinted throughout preseason that he’ll start the season pairing Harden and Mobley together. Figuring out the right other three guys to play around them is important as well to that group’s success.
“Because Evan can stretch [the floor] a little bit, you don’t have to be as intentional about the shooting piece,” Atkinson said when asked what is needed from the other three players in those lineups. “I think you can throw any three guys out there.”
While any three guys might work, Watson is a seamless fit alongside Harden and Mobley. There were several times the defense was able to cut off the pick-and-roll, which forced the ball out to Watson on either the weak-side wing or corner. That set him up for a few catch-and-shoot threes that he knocked down. More importantly, Watson also showed that he can put the ball on the ground and create his own shot. That last part has the potential to be extremely helpful against opponents that sell out to stop the Harden and Mobley pick-and-roll.
Thomas seems much more comfortable creating offense off-ball. The rookie got to his spots on the court when he wasn’t playing alongside Mitchell, but he struggled to have that same impact when he was featured more off-ball.
The Cavs are still trying to figure out what lineups Thomas can be most effective in.
“He’s really good on the ball,” Atkinson said. “We’re just trying to find that right balance.”
Atkinson thinks that Thomas could be a good pairing alongside Mitchell. He wants to see Thomas play more of the role Dennis Schroder did alongside Mitchell last season. In those lineups, Mitchell was able to shift off-ball.
Grouping Mitchell and Thomas together might also work due to how they’ve connected off the court.
“Donovan has taken a special liking to Maleek,” Atkinson said. “He almost feels like ‘I have to build that relationship, build that trust, and then coach them up.’ I always say, player development coaches get way too much credit. It’s having really good, smart vets that elevate guys. We do our little part, and I think we put them in the right places, but it’s really the coaching from your best players that elevates younger players.”
CAMDEN, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 28: Tacko Fall #99 of the Philadelphia 76ers poses for a portrait during media day at the Philadelphia 76ers Training Complex on September 28, 2026 in Camden, New Jersey. (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The Philadelphia 76ers have officially filled all three of their two-way contract spots. Joining Caleb Love and Rayan Rupert, Tacko Fall will occupy the third and final slot.
The 7-foot-6 center gives Philadelphia another option in a frontcourt that has already been hit by injuries. Ariel Hukporti suffered a torn Achilles early in the preseason, while Adem Bona missed the entire preseason as he continues to recover from a foot injury suffered over the summer. Dominick Barlow has also been sidelined with a back issue. In their absence, Jabari Walker has seen extended minutes and has responded well when called upon. Now, Fall adds much-needed size, rebounding and rim protection to the reserve unit behind Joel Embiid.
So why did Philadelphia use its final two-way spot on Fall when he’s missed all of the preseason with a hip injury? Beyond the obvious need for frontcourt depth, there are already several connections between him and members of the organization.
Fall began his NBA career with the Boston Celtics, where he developed a close relationship with Jaylen Brown, a friendship that remains strong today. After his time in Boston, he spent part of the 2021-22 season with the Cleveland Cavaliers while Mike Gansey was a member of the team’s front office. Those existing relationships likely helped keep Fall on Philadelphia’s radar.
Since arriving in Philadelphia, Fall has also built relationships with several players in the locker room. Combined with the team’s need for frontcourt depth, the move makes sense. He brings a unique combination of size and rim protection, while also adding a personality and presence that appears to fit well within the group’s culture.
Fall is 30 years old and has logged fewer than 40 NBA games in his career. While his massive frame makes him an intriguing addition, his role will likely be matchup-dependent. The Sixers aren’t bringing him in to play heavy minutes every night, but rather to provide size, rebounding and rim protection when the situation calls for it. Against bigger frontcourts and physical centers, Fall gives Philadelphia another option off the bench.
For now, the move is more about adding depth than making a splash. With injuries already testing the team’s frontcourt, Fall provides insurance, experience and a unique skill set as the Sixers round out their roster heading into the regular season.
MIAMI, FL - OCTOBER 14: Nick Richards #8 of the Miami Heat and Day'Ron Sharpe #20 of the Brooklyn Nets boxes out during the game on October 14, 2026 at Kaseya Center in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Eric Espada/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
The Brooklyn Nets ranked 30th in both offensive and defensive ratings last season and that was a good thing if you’re tanking to get a high pick. But if you’re trying to win some games in the next stage of the multi-year rebuild, one or the other will have to improve dramatically.
So far, based on Summer League and preseason, the offense looks improved. The addition of Julius Randle, a bona fide NBA scorer, looks like a big get. Playing next to Michael Porter Jr. both will their get shots. Two members of the Flatbush 5, Egor Demin and Nolan Traore, have grown in a number of ways as well. And even though he’s a rookie, Mikel Brown Jr. looks like he’ll be able to contribute. Here’s some data…
Teams With The Best Offensive Rating In The 2026-27 NBA Preseason :
Now let’s talk about defense. Judging by what we saw vs. the Miami Heat in the final preseason game, it is, to be most kind, a work in progress. Or as Brian Lewis described it Saturday, “sieve like.” MPJ had this to say.
“Yeah, that’ll be the most important thing. Offensively we’ll be able to score with the best of them,” Porter Jr. said. “I think offensively is not a problem. [But] if we want to be good, then defensively we’ll have to lock in.”
Jordi Fernandez, who prides himself as a defensive coach, agrees.
“There’s been two games that we were an aggressive and ball-pressure defensive team where I thought we were pretty good,” the head coach said. “And then two games where we were a poor defensive team with our transition, our rim protection.
“We’ve got to decide who we want to be, and the things that we can control … and do it every game. Don’t rely on shot-making, on things that don’t really matter. Rely on things that are going to make you a winning team.”
Indeed, if the Nets plan on shocking the world, matching last year is not the way to do it.
Although Fernandez noted there were positives in a couple of games, Lewis writes that that doesn’t tell the whole story about the preseason.
The Nets finished the preseason second worst in the league in opponent field goal percentage (.498) and effective field goal percentage (.588).
But their Defensive Rating wasn’t horrid, mainly because they were top 10 in opponent turnovers, turnover percentage and points off turnovers.
The Nets forced 47 through the first two games, allowing an average of just 99 points. And they harassed Washington into another 15 in the second half of Monday’s win, holding the Wizards to 50 points.
But when foes held onto the ball? Trouble.
The Nets forced just eight turnovers in that first half at Washington, and allowed 72 points. And when they only forced 15 in Miami, they allowed 144 points and 58.5 percent shooting.
The biggest defensive deficit in the Miami game was the lack of rim protection which has been pointed out since the Nets traded Nic Claxton in the deal that brought Randle to New York. Making it worse the other night was that Day’Ron Sharpe got into early trouble against Giannis Antetokounmpo, exposing a lack of bench in that area.
“[Fernández preaches] just executing our staples on defense, controlling that, controlling what needs to be controlled, and doing everything with a purpose, but doing it also hard,” Sharpe said. “So that’s the main thing he preaches. If we could do that for four quarters, we’d give ourselves a good chance to win.”
Is there a solution somewhere on the Nets current roster, somebody who could help in the short term? There’s been suggestions that Noah Clowney who once blocked 11 shots in two games over a four-day stretch could play small ball 5 in some situations. Two-way Grant Nelson also had some success blocking shots at Alabama. He is an athletic 7-footer. But neither seems likely to have much of an effect and there’s no indication Sean Marks & co. are working the phones looking for help.
Overall, Brown Jr. told the media that he believes there are fixes.
“Coach always preaches that we can play hard, but we’ve also got to play smart and attention to detail. That’s something that we’ve been inconsistent at, but we’re going to continue to work at it every single day and fix it,” Brown Jr. said.
“It’s just little mistakes we could correct. Just being clean in our shifts, being early and often. It’s not that we’re just completely blowing up on coverages; it’s just about having the right mindset, staying consistent throughout the game for all 48 minutes and keep applying that same pressure, that physicality that coach is talking about. It’s just the little things when it comes to that point. We clean those things up, we’ll be fine.”
Of course, Brown has yet to play his first real NBA game and what’s the definition of “fine,” anyway? If it’s only improvement over last season’s worst-in-the-league numbers, that’s not fine or encouraging. So we will see.
Coach JJ Redick discussed the roster shuffle as the Lakers look to trim the team from 16 to 15 players and specifically referenced third-year wing Dalton Knecht.
Lakers forward Dalton Knecht is expected to be the odd man out. AP Photo/Jeff Chiu
“I think the biggest thing is the team changed,” Redick said. “The team changed. Needs changed, the fit changed. I think he’s gotten better as a player the last two years.
“I think, particularly last year, each guy got plenty of opportunities with the injuries we had. I just think coming into this year, we added a lot of wings, and he’s in a tough spot right now.”
The Lakers have an abundance of wings, including Matisse Thybulle, Ziaire Williams, Adou Thiero, Cameron Carr and Jake LaRavia. Jarred Vanderbilt is also an option, but his name has been floated in trade rumors long before the offseason.
But as the Lakers begin the season in only a few days, Knecht seems like the most likely option to get cut.
Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick holds the ball during the first quarter of a game against the Golden State Warriors. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
Knecht was traded by the Lakers in February 2025 to the Hornets, but the deal was rescinded when center Mark Williams failed his physical. Since the trade, Knecht has never played with quite the same confidence for the Purple-and-Gold.
Jarred Vanderbilt should have a legitimate shot at being in the Lakers’ rotation as the 10th man. Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
A change of scenery would be beneficial for the 25-year-old, but there’s no guarantee the Lakers will be able to trade Knecht before Opening Night. Thus, the only alternative is waiving Knecht.
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