It's unwise to read too much into preseason results. Rotations aren't set, guys are asked to do things they won't do during the season, and teams experiment with sets and lineups we won't see when the games count.
But it's been a rough preseason for Bronny James. In nearly 70 minutes across four games, he has scored just 11 points on 26.7% from the floor, and he is 1-of-7 shooting from 3-point range, with 13 assists but 12 turnovers. After the Lakers preseason game against the Warriors in Las Vegas Tuesday, coach JJ Redick was honest — but with a positive spin — about Bronny's preseason.
"I thought he had a really nice September and a good summer with us, but I don't think he's played well in the four preseason games. But he's had good practices," Redick said. "Again, some of it is just rhythm, some of it is who he's playing with. He's played a lot of minutes, especially in the second half of games with our two-way guys... I think that is not necessarily setting him up for success."
Bronny was nowhere near NBA-ready when the Lakers drafted him No. 55 in 2024 (coming off a serious health scare and being handed a three-year contract), but NBA talent evaluators have given him approving nods for how much he has developed in the past two seasons. He has clearly put in the work. As one league source told NBC Sports at Summer League, "He was two years away from being two years away when they drafted him, but now he's looking almost like an NBA player. He might stick."
Bronny has always been an active defender and is physically strong, but as a 6'2" guard in the NBA, that only gets you minutes if you can shoot the rock, too. That improved last season, he shot 38.6% from 3, on limited chances. Shooting has always been Bronny's issue, and the preseason results are not promising.
It's hard to envision what Bronny's role will look like this season, although he will get the opportunity to prove that this preseason was just a fluke at some point. He needs to capitalize on that. Bronny's contract is fully guaranteed at $2.3 million this season, but next season includes a team option with only $1.25 million of his $2.3 million guaranteed. It's also worth noting the Lakers have 16 players under contract right now and have to trim that by one before the season opens next week. They reportedly have been exploring possible trades for end-of-the-bench players, but could be forced to waive someone.
Generational fandom, getting fans while they’re young, is not dead. It is alive, well and thriving. That’s one of many ways of looking at what the Brooklyn Nets — and New York Liberty — are doing with the latest expansion of their Brooklyn Basketball training programs.
Brooklyn Sports & Entertainment, the parent company of the Nets, Liberty and Barclays Center announced Wednesday that its Brooklyn Basketball program is adding three new locations in the Brooklyn neighborhoods of Gowanus, Bushwick and Greenpoint, to its main venue across from Barclays Center. The 18,600 square foot facility, to be known now as the Downtown Brooklyn Basketball Center, remains the centerpiece.
In addition, BSE also noted that it’s expanding its free basketball clinic program with New York City Schools from elementary and middle school to high school as well. It will also develop new links with the Public School Athletic League (PSAL) which manages the school system’s high school athletics, running city’s popular high school tournaments. Brooklyn Basketball already serves 50,000 elementary and middle school students, all of whom get t-shirts branded with the two teams’ logos.
In a statement, BSE described the program improvements as part of the first anniversary observance of the Flabush Avenue location.
“As we celebrate the one-year anniversary of Brooklyn Basketball’s first Training Center, we are proud to build on the more than 50,000 young people we reach through our school and community programming by bringing more opportunities directly into Brooklyn neighborhoods, “ said Marissa Shorenstein, the Chief Operating Officer to BSE. ”This expansion reflects our long-term commitment to the community and our belief that every young person should have the opportunity to participate, learn and grow through sport.”
Whether addressed directly or not in the announcement, the overall program will provide the organization with varied opportunities. That includes marketing generational fandom, engaging with the community and schools … and enhancing business opportunities for the Tsais who are already a leader in sports business and technology. Youth sports training is already a $40 billion-a-year business nationwide.
Indeed, the various programs will be both “fee-based and open-to-community” as BSE attempts to cover all those bases. Some financial aid is offered to defer the fee-based training costs, says a spokesman.
But what may be most interesting aspect is that expansion signals that the company, owned by Joe and Clara Wu Tsai, is doubling down on building their brand with younger fans, primarily in Brooklyn, hoping they’ll become lifelong fans. Mikhail Prokhorov, the Nets former owner, once said he hoped to “turn Knicks fans into Nets fans.” That did not work, probably never would. Under the Tsais and CEO Sam Zussman, the strategy changed to a longer term, more organic one. Now, though, there’s the added challenge of facing the prominence of the Knicks following their historic on-court success and parade down the Canyon of Heroes which drew two million people.
In various discussions about the program over the last several months, a number of BSE officials have talked openly about the value of using Brooklyn Basketball to attract those fans. Clara Wu Tsai in a recent interview with Bloomberg’s David Rubenstein volunteered that beyond how it helps youngsters with life lessons including confidence, Brooklyn Basketball is “also a way to develop a pipeline of fans, of course.” Joe Tsai in talking to NetsDaily about the Knicks effect on the Nets business plans said generational fandom will remain in place and CEO Sam Zussman, the architect of the idea told an Israeli reporter in May that spending large amounts of money on Brooklyn Basketball is an investment, hinting that profits are secondary.
“We started a movement called Brooklyn Basketball. And we now not only have a facility but we also go to public school and we deliver clinics free to 40,000 (now 50,000) kids a year and so, you would ask me, ‘you’re spending a couple of million dollars a year that yes has a community aspect but where’s the revenue? And the revenue is a stream of season ticket holders that could be season ticket holders for 50 or 60 years starting 10 or 15 years and that’s okay.”
And in discussing the specifics of Wednesday’s announcement, a BSE official said all aspects are important, including “creating connections” with the two teams.
“While we seek to teach basketball and all the life skills that come with team sport – confidence, leadership, teamwork and more – we know that not every child who comes through the doors at Brooklyn Basketball will go on to play basketball at a high level, but we do anticipate them creating connections with their community and of course the Nets and Liberty,” said the official.
Whether the plan will succeed remains uncertain after the Knicks won their first NBA championship in 50 years … and the Nets lost 62 games last season.
The biggest news in the announcement is the acquisition of the three neighborhood training facilities, newly renovated and repurposed warehouses that are being purchased from a private group, The BK Post.
The buildings are located at 483 Baltic Street in Gowanus, 53 Knickerbocker Ave. in Bushwick and 100 Dobbin Street in Greenpoint (pictured.) A BSE spokesman declined to provide details on the financials. Each space will be upgraded and renovated before opening next year under the BSE brand.
The facilities also may eventually serve as a fall back when the former Modell’s sporting goods building on Flatbush will have to close to give way to an 800-foot multi-use building planned for the site. That could happen as early as 2028. Norman Oder who tracks development at the corner of Flatbush and Atlantic has reported that BSE has signaled that its interest in retaining a facility at the site.
Beyond the three new training centers and the expansion of its partnership with New York’s public schools, the announcement laid out other elements of the expansion:
Brooklyn Basketball will launch a Community Partner Program. Through a year-long initiative, selected local organizations will partner with Brooklyn Basketball for open-to-community clinics and receive additional resources, including equipment, coaching education, Brooklyn Nets and New York Liberty experiences, an annual grant and other opportunities designed to support their ongoing work in the community.
The expansion will also support the continuation and growth of Brooklyn Basketball’s After-School Club, a year-round program built around consistent coaching, progressive training and competition. Beginning this fall at the Downtown Brooklyn Training Center location, the new Performance Track will offer three sessions per week focused on skill development, team practice and Saturday game days, along with league play, tournaments, playoffs and championship opportunities. The program will continue to offer a Skills Track focused on fundamentals and individual development.
The expansion will also support the continuation and growth of Brooklyn Basketball’s After-School Club, a year-round program built around consistent coaching, progressive training and competition. Beginning this fall at the Downtown Brooklyn Training Center location, the new Performance Track will offer three sessions per week focused on skill development, team practice and Saturday game days, along with league play, tournaments, playoffs and championship opportunities. The fee-based program will continue to offer a Skills Track focused on fundamentals and individual development.
More locations will offer increased opportunities for Nets and Liberty players to participate in Brooklyn Basketball programming as the new locations will offer all of our programing – after school clubs, camps, clinics and open-to-community programming.
The statement did not address the overall cost of the expansion which in addition to the brick-and-mortar investment will include hiring of new trainers for the three new venues, acquisition of sports technology, etc. One thing appears certain however. No NBA team has invested as deeply as the Nets … for whatever reason. And that includes the Knicks.
BOSTON, MA - APRIL 7: Brandon Miller #24 of the Charlotte Hornets dribbles the ball during the game against the Boston Celtics on April 7, 2026 at TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
The Celtics host the Charlotte Hornets for the 3rd preseason game for both teams. The Celtics beat the Cavaliers in their first game and then beat the 76ers in their second game. The Hornets lost to the Nets in their first game and then beat the Bucks in their second game. The Celtics have one more preseason game at Philadelphia on Friday.
The Hornets have several new players this season. They signed Coby White as a free agent. They got Naz Reid in a trade from Minnesota. They got Grayson Allen and Royce O’Neale in a trade from Phoenix. And, they got Dennis Schroder in a trade from the Wizards. They drafted Hannes Steinbach (14th) and Christian Anderson, Jr (18th). They also lost several players from last season. LaMelo Ball, Josh Green , Miles Bridges and Tre Mann were all traded. Antonio Reeves and Xavier Tillman both left as unsigned free agents.
I can’t guess who the Celtics will start in this game. They started Conley, Scheierman, Walsh, Gonzalez and Garza in the first game and they started Walsh, White, Tatum, George, and Robinson in the second game. Joe may want to see the starters again in this game or he may sit them once again and play the reserves all game. Or, he may play them in this game and then sit the starters against the 76ers. Or, the starters may play in both or sit in both.
Likewise, as is true of most preseason games, it’s hard to tell who will start and who will play for the Hornets. They started Schroder, Allen, McNeeley, Reid and Diabate in their loss to the Nets. They started Schroder, Miller, McNeeley, Reid and Diabate in their win over the Bucks. The Hornets also have several players out and so that may limit their options in this game.
For the Celtics, Devin Carter is a game time decision with an illness that also kept him out of Saturday’s game against the 76ers. Ron Harper, Jr has missed both games so far with a shoulder injury and he is also a game time decision. Luka Garza went to the locker room late in the fourth quarter of Saturday’s game against the 76ers after an inadvertent elbow to the nose left him bleeding. He is listed as a game time decision for this game.
For the Hornets, Grayson Allen missed Sunday’s game with a knee injury and is a game time decision. Christian Anderson, Jr has missed the first 2 preseason games with an ankle sprain and is also a game time decision. Kylan Boswell (knee), Kon Knueppel (hamstring), Coby White (calf) and Grant Williams (hamstring) are all listed as out.
Boston Celtics Roster Chris Cenac, Jr Mike Conley Luka Garza Paul George Hugo Gonzalez Ron Harper, Jr Sam Hauser Payton Pritchard Neemias Queta Mitchell Robinson Baylor Scheierman Jayson Tatum Jordan Walsh Derrick White
2-Way Players Dillon Mitchell Amari Williams Exhibit 10 Players Devin Carter Tucker DeVries Hayden Gray Gabe MccGlothan Milos Uzan Injuries Ron Harper, Jr (shoulder) game time decision Devin Carter (illness) game time decision Luka Garza (nose) game time decision
Head Coach Joe Mazzulla
Charlotte Hornets Roster Grayson Allen Christian Anderson, Jr Pat Connaughton Moussa Diabate Sion James Ryan Kalkbrenner Liam McNeeley Brandon Miller Royce O’Neale Naz Reid Tidjane Salaun Dennis Schroder Hannes Steinbach
2-Way Players Michael Ajayi Kylan Boswell PJ Hall Exhibit 10 Players Wyatt Fricks Jarkel Joiner
Injuries Christian Anderson, Jr (ankle) game time decision Grayson Allen (knee) game time decision Kylan Boswell (knee) out Kon Knueppel (hamstring) out Coby White (calf) out Grant Williams (hamstring) out
Head Coach Charles Lee
What to Watch Team Chemistry – Whether it is the starters or the reserves or the end of the bench guys, it will be interesting to see the team building chemistry and playing well together. With several new players needing to learn the system and all of the players needing to learn to play together, building chemistry should be the main goal for the team in these preseason games.
How About the New Guys– Conley looked good in the start on Thursday and Paul George and Mitchell Robinson both looked good on Saturday. Chris Cenac, Jr, Dillon Mitchell and Devin Carter have all impressed so far. I’m hoping to see all of the new players in this game to get more experience playing together before the season. Even if they only play for half the game.
Offensive Rebounding – The Celtics dominated the boards on Thursday against the Cavaliers. They had 21 offensive rebounds to just 6 for the Cavs. They did it again on Saturday, out rebounding the 76ers on the offensive boards 19-7. Rebounding will be a key for the Celtics this season. The Celtics need to once again dominate the boards in this game.
Defense – Defense is the key to winning each and every game. In the 2 games so far, the Celtics have shown that they are making the effort to dominate on the defensive end of the court. If that effort continues, the Celtics could very well have the best defense in the league. Hopefully we will see them to continue to make defense a priority.
X-Factor It’s the Preseason – The preseason is a time for the coaches to get a look at players who may or may not make the team, to experiment with lineups and different plays. Wins and losses are not as important as learning things about the players and the team. We certainly won’t see the regular rotation for either team and that’s ok.
PHILADELPHIA, PA - APRIL 30: The sneakers worn by Nick Sang during the game between the Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76ers during Round One Game Six of the 2026 NBA Playoffs on April 30, 2026 at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by David Dow/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
DENVER, CO - OCTOBER 4: Jaren Jackson Jr. #20 of the Utah Jazz dribbles the ball during the game against the Denver Nuggets during the NBA preseason on October 4, 2026 at CU Events Center, Boulder, Colorado. 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 Garrett Ellwood/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
The Utah Jazz are having a really interesting NBA preseason, and we’ve seen a variety of lineups with different centers. They started with Jusuf Nurkic, who later went down with an injury. The variations have included Nurkic and Jaxson Hayes starting at center, but they’ve also played lineups with Jaren Jackson Jr. at center.
The question is, what should the starting lineup be this upcoming season? With Jaren Jackson Jr. at center, Ace Bailey has gotten minutes in the lineup, and he’s looked great! It’s a big trade-off in terms of rebounding, but do Ace Bailey and Lauri Markkanen make up the difference?
Let us know what starting lineup you want in our latest poll!
Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NBA. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Jazz fans and fans across the country.
The Utah Jazz won the 2nd pick in the NBA lottery and now have Darryn Peterson on their roster. He’s looked incredible in Summer League and in preseason when he’s had the chance to play. How will Will Hardy and the Utah Jazz use Darryn Peterson this upcoming season? Here’s a look at the secret strategy from Will Hardy for this upcoming season.
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 10: Brandin Podziemski #2 of the Golden State Warriors moves the ball against the Sacramento Kings during the second half of the preseason game at Chase Center on October 10, 2026 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Godofredo A. Vásquez/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NBA. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Warriors fans and fans across the country.
On Saturday, exciting news broke: the Golden State Warriors had reached an agreement on an extension with fourth-year guard Brandin Podziemski, paying the Santa Clara alum $110 million over five years, starting with the 2027-28 season (he’ll play out this year on the final season of his base rookie-scale contract).
It’s a middle of the road extension, which pays the southpaw like a quality starter, but not like a star. At first glance, it feels like a deal that’s a win for both the team and the player. Podziemski gets a massive pay increase over his rookie deal (four years, $16.2 million), and gets some security should he suffer an injury or a down year ahead of what would have been his first foray into free agency next summer. And the Warriors get a quality player they love for a reasonable price, and don’t have to worry about the market boosting Podziemski’s price tag in restricted free agency.
But, as is always the case with long term contracts, reasonable minds can disagree. So I’m curious how Dub Nation views Podziemski’s extension. From a team standpoint, how would you grade the deal?
We know the headliners in Philadelphia: LeBron James, Tyrese Maxey, Jaylen Brown, Joel Embiid. What too often gets overlooked is that Mike Gansey didn't just recruit stars, he brought in talent around them for a quality bench, guys such as Anfernee Simons, Dean Wade and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope.
That's a lot of mouths for coach Nick Nurse to feed. What is the key to making it all work? Caldwell-Pope — who has won two rings — said the key is the chemistry the roster is building now. Here is what he told Kris Rhim of ESPN.
"Our chemistry is gonna be the biggest part for us," Caldwell-Pope said Monday. "Us liking each other, being able to be around each other and have fun on and off the court...
"We have so much talent from one through 12, or 15, however many guys we've got, and it's talent everywhere," he said. "So, I think our biggest thing is just communicating with each other, learning each other's tendencies, and just trying to implement that on and off the court."
Chemistry takes time. It can start in training camps and with team dinners, but what it really takes is real games with the core guys healthy and playing together — we saw that for one half this preseason, which is about right — and it will take some road trips. Team dinners on the road where LeBron spluges on good wines. Bus trips. Locker room jokes.
Bringing in LeBron changes a team's culture — he is a brand and culture unto himself. Not in a bad way, but he's the most famous player in the world, an icon, a guy in the GOAT conversation, and his off-court presence is huge. He's also still the first guy in the gym and he puts in the work, that's a big part of his culture, too, and it rubs off on teammates.
It may take some time, but the 76ers culture is going to come together. They are going to figure out how to play best together, Nurse is going to figure out rotations that work. The basketball side of this will come together. Then it just comes back to those core 76ers guys with lengthy injury histories being available when it matters most.
Get a look at the 76ers' early-season chemistry on opening night, next Tuesday, Oct. 20, when they travel to Madison Square Garden and try to spoil the Knicks' ring night. Watch that game on NBC and Peacock as part of our opening day triple-header, with the ring ceremony starting at 6:30 Eastern and the game tipping off at 7 p.m.
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 06: Bronny James #9 of the Los Angeles Lakers stands on the court during the second half of their preseason game against the Golden State Warriors at Chase Center on October 06, 2026 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Through four preseason appearances, the initial in-game returns for Bronny James Jr. aren’t ideal. He’s gone 4-of-15 from the floor (1-of-7 beyond the arc) and dished out 13 assists to 12 turnovers. While Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick acknowledged James’s struggles, he added some context to help explain the slow start.
“I thought he had a really nice September and a good summer with us. I don’t think he’s played well in the four preseason games, but he’s had good practices. Some of it’s just rhythm. Some of it’s who he’s playing with, right?” Redick told reporters after Tuesday’s loss to the Golden State Warriors. “He’s played a lot of minutes, especially in the second half of games, with our two-way guys and tonight we played with Rafael [Castro], who’s who’s been with us for three days. So some of it is like the group he’s with. I think that is not necessarily setting him up for success.”
Aside from James, who did not score (0-of-2 shooting) and committed four turnovers (zero assists), his fellow backend bench guards, Jaden Hardy and Chris Mañon, also labored during Tuesday’s defeat. Hardy scored 10 points on 3-of-9 shooting (1-of-6 from deep) and had two assists to three turnovers. Mañon scored five points on perfect 2-of-2 shooting but logged one assist to four turnovers.
Redick recognized the poor performance of those three, which contributed to a dismal second half offensively (26 total points), and knows they’ll be needed throughout the regular season when injuries to other backcourt members occur. But he didn’t place the blame solely on their shoulders and made clear the coaching staff has to find ways to simplify the game for them as well.
“We’ve talked to those guys. I mean, the reality is, again, if one of our three primary handlers are out, one of those guys…one of those guys is going to play,” Redick said. “It’s too taxing with full-court pressure for [Reaves] and [Luka] to just do that solely. We’ll keep trying to get better and those guys, their intent is there…Overall, it just was not a good offensive product in the second half and I’ll look at what I can do better with that too.”
MACAO, CHINA - OCTOBER 9: Kevin Durant #7 of the Houston Rockets looks on during the game against the Dallas Mavericks as part of 2026 NBA China Games on October 9, 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 Logan Riely/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NBA. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Rockets fans and fans across the country.
This is to piggyback off of James’ post. Y’all know how I feel about KD. Great one-on-one scorer, horrible leader and teammate, negative locker room presence, and I’d rather have just about anyone else on my favorite team. Many of you are a little more nebulus on KD. Yet the fact remains, the team was no better and went no further with Durant in the lineup than they did without him.
In addition, a recent report by ESPN’s Tim MacMahon cites Durant as the source of Houston’s obvious locker room issues last year. It was referred to as “turmoil”. Here’s what MacMahon said:
“There were issues of connectivity in the Rockets’ locker room. [Fred] VanVleet directly and significantly impacts both of those issues,” said Tim MacMahon. “Kevin Durant was part of both of those problems. I would say you could even say Kevin Durant was at the top of the list of both of those problems. At the same time, KD was kind of thrust into — I’m not going to say unfair — but a position that didn’t play to his strengths, having to be the primary initiator down the stretch of games, having to be the default leader, the guy most responsible for the mood of the locker room. Those don’t play to his strengths. Those do play to Fred VanVleet’s strengths, and kind of take those burdens off of KD’s shoulders this year.”
If things go south this season or even don’t improve, we all know KD could easily want out. He has a player options next season, so he could opt out and the Rockets lose him for nothing. In that scenario, they would need to trade him by this year’s deadline to avoid losing him for zilch.
So what do you guys think? Do they trade KD at this year’s deadline?
Cast your vote, tell us in the comments, and we’ll be back soon with the results.
High school teammates rarely get the chance to play in the NBA together, but for De’Anthony Melton and Brandon Williams, that opportunity arose when Williams signed a one-year contract with the Warriors in August.
Williams and Melton’s relationship dates back to their shared time at Crespi Carmelite High School in Encino, where the two won consecutive CIF state titles in 2015 and 2016. A decade later, the close friends are reunited in blue and gold, where their bond remains airtight.
“I’m probably over at his house too much,” Wiliams told NBC Sports Bay Area’s Kerith Burke. “I think our families are really close and even though we’re not cousins, we kind of look at each other as cousins.”
Melton originally signed a one-year, $12.8 million deal with the Warriors in July 2024 before suffering a torn ACL just six games into the season. During his rehab process, he reached out to Williams, who dealt with knee injuries of his own during his high school and college career the University of Arizona.
Williams, who calls himself a “sponge” when learning from Melton, now was in the position he usually put his friend in.
“He recently had it two years ago and I had mine in 2019, so it felt kind of weird because I’m giving him how I felt when I went through it, and he has all the top doctors looking at it and treating him,” Williams said.
Melton went on to get traded to the Brooklyn Nets in an exchange involving Dennis Schröder before re-signing with Golden State last year and restructuring his contract in July 2026 to a two-year, $12.4 million deal that includes a player option in 2027-2028.
Williams, meanwhile, had a career year, averaging 13 points per game in 66 appearances for the Dallas Mavericks
When asked what he told Williams about the Warriors, Melton said it was time to work.
“I told him one, be ready to be in the gym because we definitely work over here,” Melton said. “We’re definitely striving for something greater than ourselves so be ready to be in the gym and work, and I think that it’s the greatest organization.”
CAMDEN, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 28: Tyrese Maxey #0 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 way the Sixers’ practice facility in Camden is designed, the media only gets to interact with players on the practice floor — by design, of course.
The players have their own parking lot (with a roof for their super nice cars) and entrance on the far end of the building. The media members park amongst the regular people outside the facility gates and our exit is on the opposite end of the building.
So, you could imagine my surprise when I encountered Tyrese Maxey walking out in the same direction I was.
“You lost?” I asked.
“Nah, I’m getting on LeBron’s helicopter,” Maxey said with a laugh.
He proceeded to walk out of the gated space, awaiting a ride. As I drove away, there was Maxey, an All-NBA performer on a max contract, sitting on the curb, waiting for a ride.
It was quite the dichotomy after seeing James take off from managing partner Josh Harris’ helipad atop the franchise’s business building.
“One of us left on the helicopter,” Maxey said, “the other one sitting on the curb.”
Helicopter or not, James has acknowledged not every organization and player can handle what comes with rostering arguably the greatest player of all time. We’ve already gotten small tastes of it, with a recent notable example over the whole rumored (and debunked) LeBron-Joel Embiid situation.
There’s attention. There’s scrutiny. It can absolutely become a circus.
But there might not be a better player built for the current situation than Maxey.
Think about all Maxey has been through since he was drafted in 2020. He missed the bulk of training camp that year because he got COVID. He had a weird rookie season. He was too good for Doc Rivers to leave on the bench, but the Hall of Fame coach’s reticence to play young players led to Maxey getting inconsistent minutes. He was also in trade rumors for James Harden and Kyle Lowry, both of whom would eventually become his teammates.
He saw Ben Simmons hold out and his role increase with the ball in his hands more. He was here for the Harden trade and moved back into an off-ball role. And remember the next year when Rivers told everyone it was Maxey’s idea to come off the bench after returning from injury? Hilarious. Harden’s ensuing holdout vaulted Maxey to second in the pecking order, leading to his first All-Star appearance and the league’s Most Improved Player Award.
With Tobias Harris and his exorbitant contract gone, Maxey was able to welcome Paul George aboard — and we all remember how 2024-25 went. It was a nightmare for Maxey, Joel Embiid, the Sixers and the entire Delaware Valley. He grew from it and had an outstanding 2025-26 campaign, culminating in his first All-NBA nod.
This offseason he became a dad, without question the most important thing to happen to him, but the second-most important thing was nothing to sneeze at. Maxey successfully recruited James to join the Sixers to play alongside newcomer Jaylen Brown and a ridiculously star-studded starting five.
James hasn’t stopped heaping praise on Maxey since he got here. Brown, too, has lauded Maxey for making a difficult transition much easier by welcoming him with open arms. Labaron Philon Jr. has frequently mentioned how much Maxey is helping the rookie’s assimilation to the NBA.
Mike Gansey did a hell of a job assembling this roster, but Maxey’s fingerprints are all over it. It’s not hyperbolic to say Maxey has changed the entire trajectory of this organization. Imagine if he hadn’t become the player he is after being selected 21st overall. The Sixers would’ve likely been stuck in NBA purgatory. And if not for the positive culture he’s created in the locker room, this franchise could’ve gone sideways at multiple points over the last seven years.
James has acknowledged it’s not always easy being his teammate. Not because of anything on the court, but with the scrutiny and attention that comes with a team he’s on.
If any player can manage it, it’s Maxey.
He was asked on media day what it’s like to be in this position, where he’s been LeBron James’ workout partner and now teammate.
“What if I said LeBron was my workout partner?” he joked.
Maxey was asked about the extra attention LeBron brings.
“I wanted Bron, I didn’t want y’all,” he joked again.
Then, he got serious.
“Listen, with me, I’m focused on basketball, a job,” he said. “The rest of that, I’m not really worried about it. That doesn’t really bother me, honestly. I’ve been blessed to play in Philadelphia for my entire career so far. I played in Kentucky. I’m kind of used to the noise and all those different things, so that doesn’t bother me.
“My biggest thing is I want to help my teammates, this organization, try to win basketball games and try to win at the highest level. So the rest of that, the hoopla, all that, all y’all people being here, that doesn’t bother me.”
Holdouts, drama, injuries, mismanaged rosters, coaching malpractice, losing, media scrutiny, a fan base that expects nothing short of greatness — Maxey has handled it all.
LeBron’s helicopter flying overhead while he sits on a curb is worth nothing more than a chuckle.
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - OCTOBER 13: Yaxel Lendeborg #1 of the Golden State Warriors is fouled by Walker Kessler #14 of the Los Angeles Lakers in the second quarter of a preseason game at T-Mobile Arena on October 13, 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
The Los Angeles Lakers are expecting big things of Walker Kessler this season. They love both his skill-set and how it fits alongside their star duo of Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves. It’s why they were willing to send a pair of first-round picks and first-round pick swaps to the Utah Jazz while inking Kessler to a four-year, $130 million deal this summer. To help achieve those big things, Kessler and Lakers head coach JJ Redick are latching onto a singular word, one they think should reverberate through Kessler’s approach all over the floor.
“The word I’ve used with him, the challenge is just being relentless. Just in terms of the motor on both ends, running the floor, diving, screening, crashing the glass, playing off Luka and [Reaves],” Redick told reporters Tuesday after Kessler made his preseason debut. “He’s going to have opportunities to playmake in the pocket. That’s just the nature of how teams guard those two guys. His stats are going to naturally come just from playing hard. I thought he did a great job of that. Again, that’s like a very encouraging thing when you have multiple guys on the team that you feel like are going to do the little stuff that maybe doesn’t always show up in a box score, but helps the team.”
Kessler left a positive impression to open his Lakers tenure, with 11 points (4-of-6 shooting), nine rebounds, one assist, one steal and one block Tuesday against the Golden State Warriors. He knows if he plays relentlessly, high-level impact should follow, so he intends to try and maximize every single possession, which will manifest in array of ways that benefit Los Angeles.
“JJ and I talked and that’s kind of what we came up with this year is relentless,” Kessler said. “For me, that means just crashing every time, trying to be a presence in the paint, run, play hard, don’t take plays off on the offensive end, defensive end. So that’s going to be my goal for this year.”
Kessler’s next opportunity to embody that relentless mantra comes Friday against the Denver Nuggets in the Lakers’ preseason finale before their regular season kicks off Oct. 21 at home facing the Warriors.
But he has looked exposed without his father so far in the Lakers’ preseason.
Los Angeles Lakers guard Bronny James (9) looks on against the Sacramento Kings during a game at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, Thursday, Oct. 8, 2026. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
The 22-year-old went scoreless on two field-goal attempts, along with one rebound and four turnovers in 11 minutes against the Warriors on Tuesday night.
Through four preseason games, James has averaged 2.8 points, 2.8 rebounds and 3.3 assists in 17.5 minutes per game.
Lakers coach JJ Redick was asked how he assesses James’ “confidence and aggression” throughout this preseason, given how last season ended for him.
“Yeah. I thought he had a really nice September and a good summer. I don’t think he has played well in the four preseason games, but he has had good practices,” Redick said.
Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick speaks to Bronny James during the second half of a preseason game against the Golden State Warriors at Chase Center in San Francisco, California, Sunday, Oct. 6, 2026. Getty Images
“Again, some of it is just rhythm; some of it is who he’s playing with. He’s playing a lot of minutes, especially in the second half of games, with our two-way guys. And tonight, he played with Rafael [Castro], who has been with us for three days,” he continued.
“Some of it is the group he’s with; I think that is not necessarily setting him up for success,” Redick added.
JJ Redick on Bronny:
“I don’t think he’s played well in the four preseason games, but he’s had good practices… Some of it is like the group he’s with; I think that is not necessarily setting him up for success.” pic.twitter.com/6jEhPBhsSS
Redick’s answer about James has gotten a lot of attention on social media, as many fans feel like he’s trying to excuse James’ poor play on the teammates he has been playing with.
There might be some truth to James’ supporting cast doing him no favors. But those who are watching the Lakers this preseason can clearly see James is struggling, regardless of who he’s on the court with.
Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick looks on during the game against the Golden State Warriors on Tuesday, Oct. 13, 2026, at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. NBAE via Getty Images
CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - OCTOBER 06: Tidjane Salaun #31 of the Charlotte Hornets guards Julius Randle #30 of the Brooklyn Nets in the first half during their preseason game at Spectrum Center on October 06, 2026 in Charlotte, North Carolina. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jacob Kupferman/Getty Images) | Getty Images
In Minneapolis on Monday night, Timberwolves coach Chris Finish made a veiled criticism that seemed to be directed at Julius Randle. He said that Minny had traded “moodiness for giddiness.” Although Finch didn’t name names, the general belief was he was talking about exchanging Randle (moodiness) for LaMelo Ball (giddiness.)
"We've traded moodiness for giddiness."
The Timberwolves come to NYC with their new backcourt of Anthony Edwards and LaMelo Ball. Wolves coach Chris Finch said Minny checked in with the Hornets on Ball a few times before they actually got him. While Ball and Edwards could be… pic.twitter.com/eOF1u6bUq4
The two were not traded directly for one another. The Nets got Randle along with a late first for Nic Claxton and a high second in what was a salary dump just before the Draft. Then that deal was folded into a previously agreed trade that brought Ball over from Charlotte for Naz Reid and picks.
And as Jon Krawczynski of The Athletic reported, two other players Naz Reid and Jaden McDaniels were also seen as moody and were also dispatched. Moreover, Finch had noted a week ago that he had mismanaged Randle’s role in the Minnesota offense. “That was on me,” he admitted.
Still the message was clear … and controversial. Finch is happy with the exchange. Randle, who has yet to have an opportunity to respond, is happy too in Brooklyn. He’s said so more than once. Despite what others might think of his personality, Randle is a force to be reckoned with. As we’ve noted, over the past eight seasons, he’s averaged 21.7 points, 8.9 rebounds and played in an average of 68 games, including 79 last season. No NBA player can match that distinction. Moreover, during that span, the 31-year-old was voted Most Improved Player (2021), selected to the All-Star Game three times (2021, 2023, 2024) and was named All-NBA twice (2021 and 2023.)
A big reason for the difference between Minnesota and Brooklyn is that the player and team need each other and his head coach here makes no excuses. Jordi Fernandez likes Julius Randle.
“Yeah, absolutely. It’s incredible, man,” Randle told The Post about his reception in Brooklyn. “Everybody knows it’s a business and things happen. But when you’re somewhere where you’re really wanted, and you have that validation with an organization really appreciating you and what you bring to the table, it’s an incredible feeling.
“It just drops the anxiety and just the worry or the pressure. You just feel like you can be your best self. So, from Day 1, I felt that: the support. I damn near get goose bumps just thinking about it, because the support has been amazing. I’m loving every part of it. I appreciate them just as much as they appreciate me.”
Randle also told Brian Lewis that he believes he is in his prime, capable of a career year like the ones Fernandez has coaxed out of Dennis Schroder, Cam Johnson and of course he current teammate and frontcourt partner, Michael Porter Jr.
“Yeah, I feel like I’m the best I’ve ever been in my career. I’m in a perfect situation to play my best under Jordi,” Randle said. “Accumulation of wisdom and continuing to improve every year, I’m at my best version of myself that I’ve been in my career, and I’m excited to be able to utilize that under Jordi and help this team.”
Fernandez already sees just how he can take advantage of Randle’s game, particularly his passing ability.
“I think that this could be [Julius’] best playmaking year,” Fernandez has said. “He’s proven that he’s a very efficient player at very different levels. Seasons with the Knicks when he shot eight-plus threes, seasons where he’s isolated more, been in the pick-and-roll more, [he’s shown] his ability to playmake. And you put all those things together, for me as a coach, being able to use somebody in many different ways, it makes my life easier. I think that he will make his teammates better.”
Indeed, in the Nets win over the Wizards two nights ago, he racked up nine assists in the first half.
“[Julius’] ability to throw the ball on time and on target to his teammates is unbelievable,” Fernandez said post-game, as Erik Slater wrote Wednesday. “Nine assists in one half of basketball is not something many players can do. I haven’t seen it many times in my life. I think the only one I’ve seen is Nikola [Jokic].”
Fernandez doesn’t seem to be bothered by any perceived moodiness.
The Kentucky product and Plano, Texas native is also just happy to be back in New York City. He didn’t want to be traded after beforc he was traded two years ago for Karl-Anthony Towns, he was a big piece for the Knicks. Prior to his arrival in 2019-20, the Knicks had not made the play-offs since 2012-13. He missed out on a ring but was a big part of the Manhattanites’ return to relevance.
Now, he says, he wants to do it again in the Big Apple, this time across the river.
“Sean [Marks] brought me here because of that, because it was time to win. So, that’s just what it is,” Randle said. “I’m not here to lose. I don’t think anybody’s here to lose this year. So, yeah.
“We definitely want to be a team that goes out there and competes every single night. We’re playing to win. That’s as simple as I can put it. I don’t play to lose. … At this point in my career I’m playing to win and give ourselves a chance to win every single night, take the right steps every single day and see where that takes us.”
And of course his pre-season comment to rookie Mikel Jones Jr. that the Nets will “shock the world” has been adopted as the team mantra.
In his story on Finch’s comments, Kaczynski noted that one big issue for Randle in Minny was the constant rumors that he was on the block, specifically in proposals that would have brought Giannis Antetokounmpo to the T’Wolves. He told Lewis that was not the case. Instead, he said it was more the fatigue of 2,610 minutes —12th in the league — over 79 games and a late hand injury (two broken fingers) that was the big issue.
“The trade stuff is always tough,” Randle said. “But it’s at a point in my career where I’m used to it. You know every year it’s going to be something or some type of rumor, so that really wasn’t it. More than anything for me, I tried to challenge myself last year, playing every game.”
As for moodiness vs. giddiness debate, Randle will get his chance to respond to Finch on the court early in the season. The Nets will travel to Minneapolis on November 23.
