NEW YORK, NY - OCTOBER 8: Anthony Davis #23 of the Washington Wizards drives to the basket during the game against the New York Knicks during a 2026 NBA Preseason game on October 8, 2026 at Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
The Washington Wizards defeated the New York Knicks, 111-109 on Thursday night at Madison Square Garden. The win gives Washington a 1-0 record in the preseason.
As you might have expected, the Wizards started their Big Three of AJ Dybantsa, Trae Young and Anthony Davis. Washington even finished with a 30-29 lead. Dybantsa didn’t start out too hot, but he did make this nice drive to the hoop in the second quarter.
Ultimately, the Knicks had the stronger second quarter and headed into halftime with a 63-57 lead.
Washington was able to cut the lead down in the third quarter despite being behind by as many as 10 points. But a strong fourth quarter, which started with this go-ahead bucket by Will Riley helped give Washington the momentum needed to take down the NBA Champions.
BROOKLYN, NY - OCTOBER 8: Jaylen Brown #7 and LeBron James #23 of the Philadelphia 76ers high five during the game against the Brooklyn Nets on October 8, 2026 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
It’s understandable if it’s still hard to believe, but the Sixers’ starting lineup of Tyrese Maxey, VJ Edgecombe, Jaylen Brown, LeBron James and Joel Embiid made its debut Thursday night in Brooklyn.
It was just a preseason game, but it gave us a fun glimpse of what can be in the Sixers’ 114-108 loss to the Nets.
Brown led the way with 18 points while Maxey had 14 points and James finished with 10 points, five assists and four rebounds. Maxey and James did not play in the second half. Edgecombe chipped in with 11 points. Embiid had six points, three rebounds and three assists, but looked rusty, committing eight turnovers.
Anfernee Simons (hamstring), Dominick Barlow (back) and Adem Bona (foot) were all out.
Next up for the Sixers is their penultimate preseason game in Boston against the Celtics Saturday night.
First quarter
Embiid comfortably switching onto Keon Ellis on the first possession of his first preseason game feels like a massive positive. He had another possession on Nolan Traore which led to a miss. He was moving extremely well. The only blemish for Embiid was his three turnovers. He looked a little rusty dealing with ball pressure.
The Sixers’ first basket of the game was on a LeBron hit-ahead pass to Edgecombe. This team should be a nightmare to handle in transition. The ball movement was breath-taking at times.
Maxey’s first bucket was a dunk on a baseline drive. He then buried a couple threes off movement. This lineup is going to allow Maxey to flourish as an off-ball scorer. He led the Sixers with 10 points in the first.
A brief scare as Mo Wagner pushed Embiid in the back on a box out and the big man rolled into Brown. Brown was down for minute grabbing his right knee, but got up and appeared no worse for wear.
Dean Wade and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope were the first subs. Wade did exactly what you’d hope he’d do, snagging two offensive rebounds, burying a corner three and playing stout defense.
The defense looked leaky to say the least, but the offense was ridiculous. They had 10 assists on 12 made field goals. LeBron had half of the those dimes and finished the quarter with four points, five assists and two rebounds. The game was tied at 33-33 after one.
Lebron James with 5 assists tonight already after this laser pass to Jabari Walker for the jam pic.twitter.com/uwlnZr73yk
Nearly a highlight-reel alley-oop to start the second. After great hustle from Wade and Jabari Walker, KCP was on the break with Edgecombe. Unfortunately, Ellis broke up what would’ve been a nasty slam.
Labaron Philon, Jr. getting some minutes with the regulars and buries a three off a Maxey drive. Love Nurse experimenting with a smaller backcourt, though those minutes will likely be Simons’ when he’s healthy.
Another turnover for Embiid. Mo Wagner is playing like it’s the NBA Finals, which good for him, but it did look like he might’ve fouled Embiid. Embiid then picked up a frustration foul (it was a bit soft) followed by a technical. It’s been a frustrating night for Embiid offensively.
If there was one aspect of Embiid’s game that looked good it was his passing. He delivered a frozen rope pass to Wade on the baseline, who was then fouled.
Speaking of Wade, he’s proving to be an outstanding cutter so far. He had a few impressive defensive possessions on the strong-bodied Julius Randle as well. He looks like an oustanding fit.
Again, the defense has been rough at times, but the Nets only shot 39.2% from the field. The turnover battle was the issue, with the Sixers only forcing four in the first half while committing 14. That — and a serious Sixers’ free throw advantage — led to Brooklyn taking 20 more field goal attempts. Embiid had seven. Many of the giveaways were a clear result of guys simply not playing together.
With all that said, the offensive talent is just so overwhelming. There are mismatches and advantages on every single possession. The Sixers were up 58-56 at half. Maxey led the way with 14 points while James had 10 points, five assists and four rebounds.
Lebron James with his first (preseason) field goal as a Philadelphia 76er, with a little English on it pic.twitter.com/T3xDJMTPEI
Another turnover for Embiid. He’s really got to tighten it up. Sure, a couple have been caused by timing issues, but a few have just been plain sloppy.
The Nets’ strategy seemed to be to make the officials call fouls. On one hand, it did seem to slow the Philly offense down. On the other, Wagner had five fouls and Randle four not even midway through the third quarter.
Without James and Maxey, the offense seemed to get stagnant. The ball stopped moving and there was a bit too much iso ball.
Brown really started cooking with a bench-heavy unit. He made a gorgeous teardrop, buried a three and then delivered a beautiful behind-the-back pass to Jabari Walker, which led to a foul. He scored 18 points in just under 24 minutes.
Walker is having an excellent preseason. He put back a Justin Edwards missed three and then took a charge on the ensuing possession. Walker proving to be a legitimate stretch big option would be a welcomed development.
Great sequence here from Jabari Walker — a put-back bucket down one end and immediately takes a charge down the other 😮💨 pic.twitter.com/OpxhsAu9rD
The Nets went on an 11-0 run as the Sixers subbed out most of their regulars. Brooklyn took a 93-81 lead into the fourth.
Fourth quarter
Philon hasn’t shot well in the first two preseason games, but when you watch him, you see the potential. The handle and the creation ability are real. He’ll start to make more of these as the game reps increase.
It’s been a struggle for Justin Edwards so far. I thought he’d have a chance to compete with KCP for minutes this season. Thus far he looks like the team’s 14th man. He did make a few shots late, which will hopefully give him a confidence boost going forward.
Take it for what it’s worth, but Kate Scott mentioned on the broadcast that Tacko Fall might be available for Saturday’s game in Boston. It would be fun to watch the 7-foot-6 center play, but he also has a legitimate chance to earn the Sixers’ final two-way deal. With the season-ending injury to Ariel Hukporti, it’s not crazy to think Fall would get regular season minutes if he earns that spot.
Jameer Nelson Jr. has been really good! He plays his butt off on both ends. Should be a solid addition to the Blue Coats this season. Honestly, the team down in Delaware should be entertaining.
In their return to the Garden for the first time since Game 4 of the NBA Finals on Thursday night, the Knicks struggled to keep up with a young Washington Wizards core, losing by just two points, 111-109, for their second loss of the preseason.
Here are some takeaways...
-- Just as in Monday's 120-97 loss to the Philadelphia 76ers, the Knicks' starting lineup comprised the five stars that powered the team to its NBA Finals win in June: Jalen Brunson, Mikal Bridges, Josh Hart, OG Anunoby, and Karl-Anthony Towns. For the Wizards, the game marked their first of the preseason, as well as their first chance to see how newly-acquired vets Trae Young and Anthony Davis — as well as 2026 first-overall pick AJ Dybantsa — fit into Washington's rebuild.
-- The Knicks' offense got off to a slow start, turning the ball over thrice in the first three minutes of the game. After the Wizards went up 1-0 on a free throw from Dybantsa, Brunson landed a three to kickstart a back-and-forth offensive effort that would extend through the end of the first half.
Miles McBride and Andre Drummond were the first two Knicks to come off the bench, shortly followed by Landry Shamet and Jose Alvarado. McBride, who enters the season as the longest-tenured Knick, made a convincing argument for the contract extension he's pursuing, quickly dumping in a three before drawing a foul and adding a fourth point on the free throw.
They finished the first quarter down one point, 29-30.
-- New York's bench saw more action in the early portion of the second, with Mohamed Diawara and Jordan Clarkson taking the court for the first time. Just as in Philadelphia on Monday, New York's offense continued to ebb and flow but found a groove at the end, taking a six-point lead (63-57) into the half. Hart led the team in both minutes (16) and points (13) through the first 24 minutes of play.
-- The game's pace quickened in the third, but the Knicks' offense remained steady, increasing its lead thanks to Shamet. The shooting guard landed three straight three-point attempts for nine of the team's 21points scored in the frame. New York was up by as many as 10 points, but Washington narrowed the gap to just three by the end of the quarter.
-- The Wizards began to run away with the game in the middle of the final frame, gaining a seven-point lead until Pacome Dadiet sank a 26-foot three-pointer to put the Knicks back in the fight. The Knicks closed the deficit to just two in a chaotic final minute of play, but their effort was to no avail.
-- Overall, the Knicks shot just 42 percent from the field and 29 percent from three (11-for-38). New York's starters played much more than in the preseason opener in Philly, each crossing the 19-minute mark. Hart led the star five with 21 minutes, tying with Brunson for 13 points. Leading the bench, Shamet also had 13 points.
-- Dybantsa, 19, scored 11 points in his debut and led the Wizards in minutes (23) and steals (4). He went zero-for-three from three.
Game MVP: Anthony Davis
The 33-year-old power forward scored almost as many points (16) as he played minutes (17), landed two of his three three-point attempts, and went two-for-two from the free-throw line in his first game with Washington.
Highlights
Welcome back to The Garden, Jalen Brunson https://t.co/c51x7IM5Wc
The NBA's all-time leading scorer suited up for the team's preseason game against the Brooklyn Nets on Thursday, Oct. 8 at Barclays Center and was in the starting lineup.
The crowd cheered enthusiastically as James did his pregame ritual, tossing chalk in the air, for the first time in the blue No. 23 jersey.
James' first field goal came in the second quarter via a reverse layup with an assist from Tyrese Maxey. The future Hall of Famer credited the rising star as a major factor in choosing to join the 76ers this offseason. The bucket put Philadelphia up 40-39.
He got his first points in the first quarter when he was fouled by Keon Ellis and made both free throws.
LeBron's first bucket in his @sixers preseason debut comes in style!
James got his first assist as a member of Philadelphia in the first quarter when he dished the ball to VJ Edgecombe for a layup.
The four-time NBA champion was substituted out of the game at halftime with the score 58-56 in favor of Philadelphia. He had 10 points, 4 rebounds, 5 assists, 2 turnovers and a steal in 18 minutes of play.
LOS ANGELES, CA - FEBRUARY 7: Austin Reaves #15 of the Los Angeles Lakers shoots the ball before an NBA game against the Golden State Warriors at Crypto.com Arena on February 7, 2026 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 Kevin Terrell/Getty Images) | Getty Images
After sitting out the first two exhibition contests, Austin Reaves will make his preseason debut against the Kings on Thursday.
Head coach JJ Redick announced pregame that Reaves would return to the court, his first appearance since signing his big deal to return to the Lakers this summer.
However, Reaves is not going to be joined by his teammates who also missed the first two games. Walker Kessler remains out after jamming a finger during practice while Collin Sexton and Arthur Kaluma are also sidelined.
Joining them for Thursday’s game are Ziaire Williams, Cameron Carr and Dalton Knecht. Williams had some soreness, as Redick described, while Carr and Knecht took hits leading to contusions.
Ziaire Williams, Collin Sexton and Arthur Kaluma remain out; Cameron Carr and Dalton Knecht are also out, both of whom have contusions.
Reddick has remained steadfast that these injuries are not long-term concerns. After a flurry of games this week, the Lakers will be off until Tuesday before wrapping up the preseason with a game next Friday.
With over another week of games remaining — and additional practice coming after that — there isn’t any real reason to worry about any of the players who have yet to make an appearance. In fact, Redick said pregame that Kessler would play in preseason games.
Notably not mentioned during any of those injury updates is Luka Dončić, which means not only is Reaves playing on Thursday, but fans will get to see the superstar pair on the court together for the first time this season.
While this happened plenty of times last season, something about this being a new era of Lakers basketball makes it feel like a bigger deal to see them on the floor together, ushering the Lakers forward.
CLEVELAND, OHIO - OCTOBER 08: Luka Garza #52 of the Boston Celtics shoots over Jaylon Tyson #20 of the Cleveland Cavaliers during the second quarter of the preseason game at Rocket Arena on October 08, 2026 in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images) | Getty Images
After a packed week of NBA preseason games, Boston finally took to the court against the Cavaliers in Cleveland. For coaches and fans of both franchises it was the first opportunity to see their new look teams in a game setting. Boston showcased it’s newest additions and rookies as they took the game 124-113 on the road, Luka Garza led the way with 22 points and 10 boards. Jordan Walsh and Baylor Scheierman both had 16 points and Devin Carter scored 17 points in a fine debut.
Joe Mazulla handed the coaching keys over to his assistants with Tony Dobbins at the helm for the first half and DJ MacCleay took the reins for the second half of game 1 of the 2026-27 preseason. Boston started with a complete curveball lineup of veteran debutant Mike Conley, Baylor Scheierman, Hugo Gonzalez, Jordan Walsh, and Luka Garza. Cleveland countered with a potential regular season starting lineup with Evan Mobley, Jarret Allen, Donovan Mitchell, Jaylon Tyson, and Peyton Watson.
Paul George started in street clothes, so C’s fans will need to wait to see his first game as a member of the Boston Celtics. Jayson Tatum, Derrick White, Payton Pritchard, Mitchell Robinson, Sam Hauser, and Ron Harper Jr. joined George on the bench.
Baylor Scheierman scored the first points of the game for Boston, a play after Jaylon Tyson knocked down the first score with a three-pointer. Luka Garza hit on his first triple of the game from the top of the key as both teams settled into the action. Garza snagged a big offensive board and scored with three white Cavs jerseys surrounding him, scores tied 7-7.
With a heavy emphasis on offensive rebounding, the Cavs got out and ran for a ton of early fast breaks, they took an early 5-point lead in the first quarter. Mike Conley flashed a nifty pass deep to the corner to find Hugo Gonzalez wide open, the Spaniard lacing a corner three for his first points of the preseason.
CLEVELAND, OHIO – OCTOBER 08: Jayson Tatum #0 and Payton Pritchard #11 of the Boston Celtics sit on the bench during the first quarter of the preseason game against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Rocket Arena on October 08, 2026 in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Rookie Chris Cenac Jr. and new signing Devin Carter were the first Celtics off the bench for Tony Dobbins. Cenac Jr. scored his first points of the game with a loud two-handed dunk as Scheierman found him with the assist, wrapping the ball behind his back off a loose ball hustle play. Devin Carter scored his first points as a member of the Boston Celtics with a tomahawk dunk on the break over Watson.
Rookies Milos Uzan and Dillon Mitchell saw time late in the quarter for Boston. Uzan showed the stroke with a triple from the 45, and Carter rattled home a straight-on three of his own as Boston took the lead 30-26. Dillon Mitchell went two for four from the line in his first trips to the NBA free throw line. Boston up by 3 points, 32-29 after one quarter.
Cenac Jr. showed his athleticism early in the second quarter with a fast break two-handed dunk in full stride; Mike Conley found the rook on the break with the assist. Mike Conley showed his veteran savvy as he drove on Mario Hezonja to score on a floater along the baseline. Devin Carter kept up the scoring as he drove into the chest of Peyton Watson to score his tenth point of the game. Carter is staking a claim on the 15th roster spot, as he currently sits on an Exhibit 10 contract.
The Celtics enjoyed an extended training camp in Charleston, South Carolina, and that bonding and chemistry was evident as the newcomers and rookies looked pretty well integrated into the flow of the offense in game one of preseason. Boston kept the pressure on the Cleveland glass; they had 12 offensive rebounds with 5 minutes left in the first half.
CLEVELAND, OHIO – OCTOBER 08: Devin Carter #99 of the Boston Celtics shoots during the first quarter of the preseason game against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Rocket Arena on October 08, 2026 in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Hugo Gonzalez looked good in his second quarter stint with a fluid three-pointer and a Euro step up-and-under layup. Jordan Walsh hit a tough, high arcing jumper over Jarrett Allen as the shot clock expired at the two minute mark, Boston up 65-58. Luka Garza was outstanding in the first half, he played 16 minutes and had 16 points, 7 rebounds (4 offensive), and 2 blocks. Boston took a 9 point lead into the change rooms at the half, 71-62.
Scheierman opened the scoring for Boston in the second half with a deep three-pointer that was all nylon. The Cavliers sat their starters to start the second half. Cleveland reeled off 12 straight points after the Scheirman three, Meleek Thomas, Mario Hezonja active for the home team forcing DJ MacLeay to call a quick timeout. Jordan Walsh broke the scoring drought for Boston in the paint, game tied at 76.
Boston kept the pressure on Cleveland, extending the lead to 5 points, 91-86. DJ MacLeay and the Celtics coaches were cycling through bench players to keep the pace high in the third quarter. Boston was giving up a ton of transition buckets as the third quarter ended, the held on to 99-96 lead after three.
Conley, Garza, Scheierman, and Walsh headed to the bench to watch the final quarter after a decent showing against the Cavs starters sans James Harden. DJ MacLeay brought on Amari Williams, Dillon Mitchell and the training camp players to finish things off. Dillon Mitchell skied for an alley Oop dunk and Tucker DeVries showed the shooting touch drilling back-to-back triples.
It wasn’t a pretty end, but the C’s held on to take a comfortable win on the road. Dillon Mitchell was active for Boston in his first game, stuffing the stat sheet for 10 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists and 1 steal. First round pick, Chris Cenac Jr. had 7 points, 4 blocks and 8 rebounds, he showed signs of being a contributor during the regular season. Hayden Gray had 6 points on the night and Milos Uzan chipped in 6 points, 3 rebounds and 3 assists.
The Celtics travel home to Boston for their second preseason game, hosting the Philadelphia 76ers on Saturday 10th of October.
CLEVELAND, OH - OCTOBER 8: Meleek Thomas #15 of the Cleveland Cavaliers drives to the basket during the game against the Boston Celtics on October 8, 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 Lauren Leigh Bacho/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
The Cleveland Cavaliers took their first loss of the preseason in a 124-113 defeat to the Boston Celtics.
Donovan Mitchell, Jaylon Tyson, Peyton Watson, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen started the game for Cleveland. James Harden was ruled out with ankle soreness.
Boston was without Jayson Tatum, Derrick White, Peyton Pritchard, Mitchell Robinson, and Paul George.
This was Cleveland’s first chance to see what Watson could look like next to their other star players. He opened the game by defending Mike Conley, taking on the challenge of protecting the point-of-attack. Watson’s perimeter defense will be key to his role in the starting five.
The Cavs trailed 32-29 after the first quarter as Boston nailed 6-of-17 three-point attempts.
Tyson led the Cavs in scoring during the first half. He scored 14 points on 6-of-8 shooting, making his way to the basket for a handful of easy buckets — including a hail-mary touchdown from Craig Porter Jr. in transition.
Kenny Atkinson said before the game that Cleveland’s starters would rest for the entire second half. He stuck to his word, starting Mario Hezonja, Tyrese Proctor, Meleek Thomas, Craig Porter, and Thomas Bryant in the third quarter.
This game had all the makings of preseason. Weird lineups. Half-hearted effort and a ton of three-point attempts.
But it also had some of that preseason strangeness that leads to fun as well.
Bryant stormed the floor for a deep seal in the paint within his first 10 seconds of being on the court. That’s what we’re all here for, right?
The second half was more enjoyable in terms of watching stuff that might actually matter. The rookie, Meleek Thomas, had a few standout moments that serve as brief flashes of what he could one day become. His on-ball creation is raw but entertaining. His defensive intensity could put him in the rotation ahead of schedule.
We also saw Hezonja thaw himself out in the third quarter after a frigid start to his NBA return. He felt slow in the opening minutes, losing the ball and missing the mark. It wasn’t until a quick stretch that included a three-pointer and a downhill dime that the picture of what Hezonja can be in Cleveland came into focus.
Still, Cleveland was downed by Boston’s sporadic three-point shooting. The Celtics finished with 17 three-pointers and handed the Cavs the loss.
NEW YORK — LeBron James, just like always, walked to the scorer’s table.
And, just like always, he picked up the bottle of talcum powder, dusted a tiny bit off to his right and left sides, and then he caked his right hand. It was the same chalk toss, the same staccato claps and the same strut toward center court. The jarring difference, of course, was the bright blue uniform bearing PHILA across the chest.
It’s a new era, indeed.
James made his 76ers debut Thursday, Oct. 8 in Philadelphia’s second preseason game against the Brooklyn Nets, in which all five starters played together for the first time in a competitive game. And with that, coach Nick Nurse and the rest of the NBA world caught the first glimpse of the revamped Sixers, who wield arguably the best starting five in the world and who enter the 2026-27 season with massive expectations — championship ones.
And if this first look is indicative of where the 76ers are as a collective, it’s clear there are issues to smooth, like turnovers and slight miscommunications. But it’s undeniable that the offensive structure in place has the potential to ascend to the upper tiers of the league.
How did LeBron James do?
James, for the most part, served as point-forward, facilitating offense and deploying his exceptional vision to whistle passes all over the floor. At this stage of his career, it’s what he does best.
The 76ers missed their first shot of the game, a 14-foot turnaround jumper from Joel Embiid. After that, Philadelphia converted its next 7 field goal attempts. By that point, James had not put up a single shot; he had, however, dished out 3 assists by then.
James made his only shot attempt but drained all 8 free throw attempts to finish with 10 points — second-most among starters and behind All-Star point guard Tyrese Maxey’s 14 — 5 assists, 4 rebounds and 2 turnovers. All 5 assists came in the first quarter.
“It’s a small sample size, and we’re still trying to learn each other on the floor,” James told reporters after the game. “We’re still trying to put each other in the position to be successful and complement each other the best way we can on the floor. But it’s going to take some time.”
When given a crease, James was aggressive in attacking the basket, though everything was under control. He played his game, patiently waited for players to get open.
The luxury Nurse now has is three superb ball-handlers in James, Maxey and shooting guard VJ Edgecombe. Each can initiate actions, though Brown and Embiid are both more than capable of effective spurts of on-ball play.
“Some good, some bad,” Nurse told reporters when asked to characterize the play of his starting unit. “Good to get them out there for the first time. Obviously, it’s kind of what the preseason is for. I think there was some really good things happening right off the bat; some back cuts and good passing, et cetera.
“But then I think there were segments where we turned the ball over a lot, which we can never do. A little clunky in segments, too, but it’s preseason. First time they’re together.”
What 76ers still need to work on
Despite that abundance of creators, turnovers and timing plagued Philadelphia, which committed 14 turnovers in the first half, against only 12 assists on 16 made field goals. For Philadelphia to compete, that figure is way too high, and it turned into 16 Nets points off of those turnovers, seven of which were on Embiid.
They were most often the product of crowded spacing, passes slightly off target, or slight timing misjudgments, all of which should be corrected with time. After all, this group is still learning how to play together, and it’s requiring some players — Brown, chief among them — to adapt to entirely new roles.
Though Embiid, Brown and Edgecombe were on the floor to start the second half, James and Maxey were not. None of the five starters played the fourth quarter as the Nets went on to win 114-108.
In the first half, the 76ers made 57.1% of their shots, and it became clear that Nurse wants this group to play with space, looking for outlets on skipahead passes to compromise the opposing transition defense.
If there was any play that flashed the promise of this experiment, it came just minutes into the game.
Maxey brought up the ball and slipped to the right wing before delivering a behind-the-back bounce pass to Embiid, who was at the top of the key. Embiid fielded the pass, but quickly skipped it over to James, who was on the left wing. James carved his way into the lane and zipped a no-look bounce pass to Edgecombe, who was cutting along the baseline: wide open dunk.
It wasn’t even a set play, and all the communication was nonverbal.
“It’s just all a read,” Edcombe said. “When there’s someone like (James) who demands so much gravity and attracts so much attention, I just have to play off him. … We made eye contact, and I went to the rim.”
As long as the Sixers can play like that, fluidly and decisively, with clean passes, they might just live up to their massive expectations.
“It was pretty chill, honestly,” Clarkson said of his summer. “I knew I wanted to come back here, so it was easy.”
No other meetings or offers were considered by Clarkson or his representative, Rich Paul.
“We really didn’t listen to anything else,” the guard said ahead of Thursday night’s 111-109 preseason loss to the Wizards at Madison Square Garden. “I told my agent and everybody that I wanted to come back here, and if the money situation worked out, I wanted to come back. Not do anything else.”
It worked out for a second straight year, as the unrestricted free agent signed a veteran-minimum deal with the Knicks. In 2025, he first had to negotiate a buyout with the Utah Jazz and agreed to the Knicks deal while attending Wimbledon. There were alternatives back then.
This time, Clarkson’s one-year, $3.9 million deal arrived later in free agency — July 9 — but without much surprise.
The Knicks, according to sources, appreciated his locker-room presence. Even if Clarkson doesn’t play, he’s encouraging his teammates, getting along with everybody, going with the flow.
That’s not always the case with veterans who are suddenly faced with dips in opportunities — especially those with Clarkson’s resume.
He ranks seventh in the NBA in all-time bench points and needs just 39 more to surpass No. 6 Thurl Bailey.
Sacrificing with grace will probably be important again this season for Clarkson, who is part of a crowded backcourt with no guarantee of playing time.
Barring a trade, the Knicks have Landry Shamet, Jose Alvarado and Miles McBride above Clarkson on the depth chart.
Jordan Clarkson shoots a jumper during the Knicks’ preseason game against the Wizards on Oct. 8, 2026 at Madison Square Garden. NBAE via Getty Images
But Clarkson, who scored seven points in nine minutes Thursday, can separate himself as a longer body — he’s 6-foot-5 — who can press the ball handler on defense and sometimes create a shot for himself.
The big difference, as Clarkson noted, is a clearer understanding of his fit.
Whereas a year ago Clarkson was being sold a volume-scoring role off the bench, the 34-year-old now understands his path to playing time is geared toward defense and rebounding.
It took a benching to understand that last year. Now he’s ready.
“I know it’s not my regular role that I’ve played before I got here,” Clarkson said. “But it’s something I’ve fallen in love with, and I love playing my role and playing for this team and playing for each other. I think that was the biggest thing last year that I’ve learned.”
Per 36 minutes, Clarkson averaged his fewest points and field goal attempts since he was a rookie in 2014-15.
Defense was never part of Clarkson’s reputation — if anything, he was considered a negative on that side of the floor — but a transformation turned him into a rotational piece of an NBA champion.
Clarkson liked it so much he wants to do it again — even after averaging career lows in minutes, points and shot attempts.
“For us, it’s not about numbers. It’s all about winning the game and doing anything to win the game,” Clarkson said. “And I think a lot of us put things behind us to make that common goal happen.
“And that’s from the coaching staff to everybody down the line. I think we all got to understand on what it means to be a part of this team and a part of the Knicks. So I think that’s been set, and that’s why I wanted to come back. I love the standard. I love the culture here.”
Matt Barnes told Steve Ballmer to change the Clippers’ name when he bought the team in 2014.
Everybody laughed at Barnes, but he thinks the franchise is cursed and the idea might be worth revisiting following the salary cap scandal.
Matt Barnes told Steve Ballmer to change the Clippers’ name when he bought the team in 2014. Getty Images
“I do think the Clippers are cursed,” Barnes said to TMZ Sports. “I told [Steve] Ballmer to change the name when he first got here and everyone kind of laughed at me.
“They definitely need to change the name. This…energy is still on this franchise.”
A makeover certainly wouldn’t harm the Clippers as the franchise strives to reclaim the trust of its fans.
Steve Ballmer received a one-year suspension. AP Photo/Ryan Sun“I do think the Clippers are cursed,” Barnes said to TMZ Sports. Getty Images
“Our fans deserve to hear from us before this, and for that we’re sorry,” interim president of basketball operations Trent Redden said. “We’ve been listening to the thoughts, the concerns, and feeling the emotions of our fan base. They mean everything to us. … We hope to fulfill our promises to them, to build their trust and move forward through this time.
“This franchise often has done its best work with its back against the wall … We hope to represent our fans the same way we always have in dark times, by coming out fighting.”
The Clippers have been clothed in scandal before Ballmer owned the team. The NBA banned Donald Sterling for life following leaked racist remarks, which pushed the $2 billion sale of the team forward for Ballmer.
The organization hasn’t been able to escape its stained past, but a name change doesn’t seem like it could cause any more harm than what’s already been done.
The Warriors had back-to-back exhibition games on Tuesday against the Lakers and Wednesday against the Trail Blazers.
Here are our takeaways:
1. Yaxel Lendeborghas arrived
In Tuesday’s game against the Lakers, Yaxel Lendeborg was the main story. The Warriors’ 11th pick in the NBA draft looks ready to contribute, which is music to Golden State’s ears considering it will be without Jimmy Butler and Moses Moody for the first few months of the season and Kristaps Porzingis indefinitely.
Lendeborg had 17 points in the first half on 7-for-11 shooting from the field, including going 2-for-3 from deep in the Warriors’ 124-98 win over the Lakers. He also had nine rebounds for his second straight preseason game.
The Warriors are going to need the 6-foot-9 Lendeborg to make an immediate impact as a scorer and rebounder. That’s why they drafted the 24-year-old forward. He appeared NBA ready.
So far, he has lived up to those expectations.
He led the Warriors to a championship in Las Vegas in summer league play while winning the MVP Award. And he has delivered in the team’s exhibition games, making a strong case for him to get some big NBA minutes as a rookie.
Golden State Warriors forward Yaxel Lendeborg, right, brings the ball up the court against Los Angeles Lakers forward Adou Thiero during the second half of an NBA preseason basketball game Wednesday, Oct. 7, 2026, in San Francisco. AP Photo/Jeff Chiu
2. The Warriors could have some depth
Steph Curry looked good against the Lakers, finishing with 16 points in 14 minutes. Draymond Green looked sharp, finishing with eight assists, three points, two rebounds and one steal in 15 minutes.
But what was most impressive is that the Warriors won handily with their star players hardly playing.
Four players scored in double figures, including Curry, Lendeborg, Brandin Podziemski and Brandon Williams.
The Warriors finished with 44 rebounds, 32 assists and only 10 turnovers.
It’s only preseason, so you can’t read too much into any of this. But if Butler looks good when he returns from his torn ACL in a few months, maybe the Warriors will be better than everyone thinks.
Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) high-fives forward center Draymond Green (23) after scoring a 3-pointer in the first period against the Los Angeles Lakers during an NBA pre-season basketball game in San Francisco, Tuesday, Oct. 6, 2026. Yalonda M. James/San Francisco Chronicle via AP
3. The guys fighting for roster spots were put on blast
Nine players didn’t travel to Portland for the Warriors game against the Trail Blazers on Wednesday, including Curry, Green, Al Horford, Podziemski, De’Anthony Melton, Gary Payton II, Gui Santos, Georges Niang and Lendeborg.
Meanwhile, the Trail Blazers fielded what could be their starting lineup in Deni Avdija, Toumani Camara, Donovan Clingan, Damian Lillard and Ja Morant.
The Warriors put up a fight in their 123-118 loss, with a few guys making notable contributions.
Dalen Terry nearly recorded a triple-double with 23 points (9-for-18 from the field, 4-for-5 from 3), eight rebounds, nine assists and four steals in 43 minutes. He’s on an Exhibit 9 contract and is trying to earn a roster spot.
Miles Kelly, who is eligible for a two-way contract, added 24 points (8-for-16 from the field, 6-for-11 from 3), seven rebounds and six assists in 28 minutes. On the other side of the spectrum, two-way player Malevy Leons struggled, finishing with as many turnovers as made shots (two).
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - JULY 09: Carter Bryant #11 of the San Antonio Spurs walks on the court during a break in the first half of a 2026 NBA Summer League game against the Atlanta Hawks at the Thomas & Mack Center on July 09, 2026 in Las Vegas, Nevada. 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 Ethan Miller/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Welcome to the Game Thread. Veterans of the Game Thread know how we do things around here, but for all you newbies we have a few rules. Our community guidelines apply and basically say be cool, no personal attacks, don’t troll and don’t swear too much. The rule against trolling also applies to members of this site that visit other fan sites.
After the Spurs lost in the NBA Finals to the Knicks, it’s been a long, cruel summer with no Spurs basketball, and that comes to an end tonight. It’s only preseason, but it’s great to see the Silver and Black in action again. The final score won’t count tonight, so it’s going to be interesting to see the Spurs try to run it back with mostly the same lineup, with the major additions being Jayden Quantance1, Tobias Harris2, and Tarris Reed3.
That’s not counting the internal growth of the squad. Dylan Harper is poised for an incredible sophomore season after a rookie season where he became one of the best performers on the team during the playoff run. Stephon Castle has been working on his game in the offseason and we could see the results early this season, if not tonight. Carter Bryant looked lost at the start of the season, but he sh0wed a lot of promise towards the end of the season. This season could see that promise develop into production. And Victor Wembanyama is always amazing to watch, and he’s just getting started, as he will take another leap in both the physical and mental parts of his game. David Jones Garcia, who is on a 2 way contract, is returning to health after missing most of last year and could have a breakout season as he looks for a bigger role on the Spurs.
The veterans can’t be overlooked, De’Aaron Fox looks to be in the best shape to start a season since he joined the Spurs, and Luke Kornet could become more active on offense under Billy Donovan’s tutelage. Devin Vassell had his best season in 2025-2026, and Julian Champagnie is a key component on both the offense and defense. Keldon Johnson has trimmed down a bit over the summer, and it’ll be interesting to see how well that will affect his game in the new season after a somewhat disappointing playoff run for him.
Tonight starts the DAZN era. I’m not happy about having to pay for another streaming service, but there’s already a positive. In past seasons, it was really hard to find preseason broadcasts, but that’s not the case with DAZN, because they will be showing all five preseason contests live. They’re going to be the main broadcaster for all of the games that aren’t on national TV or one of the other streaming services, so that’s something to consider if you’re a fan that likes watching games live and you’re not on a pirate ship. If you are, don’t tell me.
[Unavailable until some time in 2027]
[Unavailable for preseason]
[Available tonight]
Game Prediction:
Carter Bryant gets a little too excited in warmups and jumps over the backboard during shootaround.
San Antonio Spurs vs Atlanta Hawks (Preseason) October 8, 2026 | 7:00 PM CT Streaming: DAZN, League Pass TV: DAZN Reminder: It is against site policy to post links to illegal streams in the comments.
ATLANTA, GEORGIA - OCTOBER 05: Ty Jerome #2 of the Memphis Grizzlies drives to the basket as Aaron Wiggins #2 of the Atlanta Hawks plays defense during the second quarter of the preseason game at State Farm Arena on October 5, 2026 at State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia. 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 Paras Griffin/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The Hawks hit the road for the first time this preseason and take on the San Antonio Spurs.
Please join in the comments below as you follow along.
Where, When, and How to Watch and Listen
Location: Frost Bank Arena, San Antonio, TX
Start Time: 8:00 PM EDT
TV: N/A
Radio: Sports Radio 92.9 the Game (WZGC-FM)
Streaming: NBA League Pass, Youtube TV (NBA League Pass)
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 07: Devin Booker #15 of the Phoenix Suns looks on against the Chicago Bulls during the first half of the preseason game at the United Center on October 07, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Daniel Bartel/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Do you know what the most annoying thing about the preseason is? Trying to figure out what the hell actually matters. And am I allowed to have an opinion on any of it? If you do and it’s perceived as negative, you’re a hater. If it’s positive, you’re a fan boy. What happened to watch, process, and report?
I get it. The games don’t count in the standings. The rotations are incomplete. Starters aren’t playing 36 minutes, coaches are experimenting with combinations that may never see the light of day once the regular season begins, and winning is rarely the primary objective. It makes evaluating what we’re watching an exercise in selective interpretation. You see something you like, you convince yourself it’s a sign of things to come. You see something concerning, you remind yourself that it’s only October.
We’ve been down this road before. The Phoenix Suns have gone 4-2 in the preseason, giving us plenty of reasons to believe that something special was brewing, only for those performances to mean absolutely nothing once the games started counting. I’m looking at you, 2016-17. There’s a reason we approach these exhibitions with skepticism. History has taught us to.
And yet, here I am, two games into the preseason, trying to make sense of what I’ve watched. I’ve spent much of the offseason expressing optimism about this team. I believe in the identity they’re attempting to establish. I believe continuity, culture, defensive intensity, and a commitment to playing a more physical brand of basketball can provide a legitimate pathway to success. But optimism has a funny way of allowing you to overlook the things you already know are going to be problems.
We entered this season understanding that the Suns have deficiencies. There are areas of the game where their roster construction creates legitimate concerns, challenges that effort and enthusiasm alone won’t necessarily overcome. We can talk ourselves into believing that defensive intensity will create additional possessions, that continuity will improve execution, and that a renewed culture will help swing close games in their favor. And perhaps all of that will prove true.
Still, through two preseason games, we’ve begun seeing glimpses of the very issues we spent the offseason trying to rationalize away. That’s what makes evaluating this team so fascinating, and occasionally frustrating. There are encouraging developments worth acknowledging, concerning trends that deserve attention, and a few things that could become downright ugly if they carry into the regular season.
So, with the appropriate preseason disclaimer firmly attached, let’s take a look at the good, the bad, and the ugly of what we’ve seen from the Phoenix Suns thus far.
The Good: The depth is starting to show
I’ve mentioned previously how inspiring the second unit has looked. They elevate the energy and tenacity whenever they enter the game, and I think that collective intensity has the potential to create havoc throughout the season. If they can sustain it, they’ll provide another layer of success for this team.
Unfortunately, we haven’t seen much of Miles Bridges, but the early indications surrounding his addition have been positive as well. He tweaked his ankle eight minutes into Wednesday night’s game against the Chicago Bulls, limiting our opportunity to see how he fits within the starting lineup.
Through 21.9 minutes of preseason action, Bridges is 4-of-9 from the field and 1-of-3 from beyond the arc, totaling eight points, six rebounds, five assists, one steal, and only one turnover. He’s also grabbed two offensive rebounds. That additional dimension he can bring offensively is something I’ve been theorizing about throughout the offseason. And while the sample size is incredibly small, the early returns appear to be trending in the right direction.
Then there’s Collin Gillespie, who looks like he’s preparing to take another leap as a player, something I’m ecstatic about. I believe Gillespie has the potential to become more than our version of T.J. McConnell coming off the bench. If things don’t work out with Jalen Green in his current role and the Suns eventually decide to move in another direction, they have options. Because Gillespie is beginning to look like somebody who could legitimately start at point guard in this league.
Through 30.7 minutes of preseason action, he’s shooting 7-of-11 from the field and 5-of-8 from beyond the arc, adding three assists and four rebounds. The five turnovers have been ugly (we’ll get into that shortly), although that puts him in the company of seemingly everybody else on this roster through the first two games.
Still, there’s plenty to be encouraged about with Gillespie. His confidence, efficiency, and growing command of the offense are all reasons to believe another step forward could be coming.
The Bad: The shooting concerns are holding up
This is probably one of our biggest concerns, especially considering the Suns lost both Grayson Allen and Royce O’Neale this past offseason. That’s 371 of their 1,210 three-point makes from last season walking out the door, with those two combining to shoot 45.1% from deep.
Strategically, the theory behind replacing that production is that newly acquired Luke Kennard will shoulder a greater shooting responsibility, while Collin Gillespie should be able to contribute as well. But the starting five is going to have its challenges from beyond the arc.
What is the combined career three-point percentage of a potential Suns starting five of Jalen Green, Devin Booker, Dillon Brooks, Miles Bridges, and Mark Williams?
Through two preseason games, the combination of Devin Booker, Jalen Green, Miles Bridges, and Dillon Brooks is shooting 9-of-34 from deep, good for 26.5%. Booker’s 0-of-8 performance against the Chicago Bulls certainly skews that number, but it remains an area of concern. Why? Because it doesn’t matter whether you’re playing in the preseason, regular season, Summer League, or your local rec league at the YMCA. You don’t suddenly become a better shooter because the calendar transitions from the preseason to the regular season. Yes, improvements can be made through time, effort, and repetition. But collectively, this is going to be a vital area of opportunity for Phoenix this season, and thus far, the concerns appear valid.
The same would be true if the numbers were reversed. If those four players were collectively shooting 40% from deep through two preseason games, we’d be pointing toward that production as an early indication of improvement and questioning whether our concerns entering the season were warranted.
The Suns will certainly do their part schematically to create open looks. And I believe the addition of Miles Bridges, with his ability to attack the rim and put pressure on defenses, will make it more difficult for opponents to account for Phoenix’s perimeter shooters as they collapse into the paint.
The opportunities will be there. But ultimately, you have to knock down the shots.
The Ugly: You can’t win by giving the ball away
This one has to go to ball security. Through the first two games of the preseason, the Suns are averaging 29 turnovers per game, dead last among the 24 NBA teams that have played a preseason game thus far. We’ve witnessed 32 turnovers against the Pistons and 26 against the Bulls.
On the surface, that’s concerning, especially when you consider the potential challenges this team could face with overall facilitation and ball distribution. Ball security absolutely needs to become a point of emphasis as the regular season approaches.
Take the preseason opener against the Detroit Pistons, for example. The starting five combined for only five turnovers, although they played between 15 and 16 minutes apiece. Against the Chicago Bulls, however, things got considerably uglier. Dillon Brooks and Devin Booker played 23 minutes, Jalen Green played 22, Oso Ighodaro played 17, and Miles Bridges played eight. That starting group combined for 13 turnovers. No matter how you slice it, that’s ugly basketball.
"Playing good first halves, but not putting a whole full game together. Turnovers are a big thing right now."
Dillon Brooks on Suns 0-2 start to preseason after 124-117 loss to Bulls.
Committed 26 turnovers that led 36 Bulls points. Had 32 Monday at Detroit that led to 37… pic.twitter.com/ojiiX5TFqN
Sure, the preseason is designed for exactly this. It’s an opportunity for the coaching staff to experiment with different schemes, put players in unfamiliar situations, and see how what they’ve been working on in practice translates to live game action. These five games are about getting your legs underneath you, building conditioning, and testing players in roles they might not be entirely comfortable with.
But should this become a concerning trend as we approach the regular season? Think back to last year, when the Suns averaged 16 turnovers per game during the preseason. How did that translate once the games started counting? Phoenix averaged 14.5 turnovers during the regular season.
There’s also the reality that three preseason games remain, providing plenty of opportunity for that overall number to come down if ball security becomes a priority. And it must become a priority. The way the Suns intend to beat opponents this season is by outworking and outhustling them, creating extra possessions through defensive pressure, offensive rebounding, and relentless effort. That’s the identity they’re trying to establish.
But those extra possessions lose their value when you’re giving the basketball right back. For a team that plans to manufacture advantages through effort, giving away possessions could ultimately mean giving away games.
That’s the challenge facing Phoenix as the preseason continues. The good gives us reasons to believe. The bad reminds us that roster construction comes with consequences. And the ugly exposes mistakes that could undermine everything this team is trying to accomplish. There’s still time to address these concerns, and nobody should be drawing definitive conclusions after two exhibition games. But the Suns have shown us enough to recognize where the work needs to happen.
Optimism is warranted. So is a healthy dose of reality.
WASHINGTON, DC - FEBRUARY 3: Josh Hart #3 and Karl-Anthony Towns #32 of the New York Knicks box out Kyshawn George #18 of the Washington Wizards during the game on February 3, 2026 at Capital One Arena in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Stephen Gosling/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
The World Champion Knicks (0-1) return to Madison Square Garden tonight for their first home appearance since defeating the Spurs in June. Monday’s 120-97 loss in Philadelphia featured brief starter minutes, 20 Knicks, and a ton of missed threes. Mike Brown wants more physicality tonight, and some made shots would be nice, too.
Washington (0-0) makes its preseason debut with Trae Young, Anthony Davis, and top pick AJ Dybantsa leading the latest rebuild. The Wizards finished last season 17-65. This one won’t count, but beating Trae is always a worthwhile activity.
Game time is 7:30 on MSG. This is your game thread. This is Bullets Forever. Please don’t post large photos, GIFs, or links to illegal streams. Be kind to each other. And go Knicks!
