Luka Dončić was nervous before his teammates came to Slovenia.
He had never hosted a mini camp before, let alone asked a bunch of 20 and 30-something-year-old men to travel to Europe for him.
But with nine new players on the Lakers’ roster and the hopes of a 17-time championship franchise on his shoulders, he decided to step outside his comfort zone.
So, he paid for his teammates to come to his home country so they could build chemistry.
Why Slovenia?
Luka Doncic signs autographs for young fans during the Los Angeles Lakers’ visit to Slovenia on Sunday, August 23, 2026. Andrej Tarfila/Shutterstock
He didn’t want to leave his two daughters (two-year-old Gabriela and nine-month-old Olivia), both of whom he shares custody with his ex-fiancée, Anamaria Goltes, who lives in Slovenia.
“Obviously, I was with my daughters,” Doncic said at Lakers media day on Monday. “So we decided that we would bring the team to Slovenia. It was an amazing trip.”
Luka Doncic talks during media day at the UCLA Health Training Center in El Segundo, California, Monday, September 28, 2026. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
It deepened their relationships. It helped the Lakers get to know their superstar, who finished fourth in MVP voting last season.
“It was very important for me to show them where I’m from, and I think everybody liked it,” Doncic said. “We had some great time. Just, you know, it was very nice that all of them came, which I know it’s not easy. But that just showed what kind of group we are.”
When Austin Reaves was asked about the trip, he couldn’t help but trash talk Doncic a bit.
“We won the rowing, we won the golf, we won bowling,” Reaves said. “Luka tried to put on a blue shirt when his rowing team lost, which is crazy. But he did host us, so we let him hold the first place trophy for once.”
The Lakers enter training camp Tuesday already having taken an international trip together. They have inside jokes. They feel gratitude for Doncic, who paid for them to share that experience.
It’ll help expedite their biggest challenge next season: gelling.
With so many new faces, the quicker they can bond, develop trust, and learn one another, the faster they’ll be able to compete in the very crowded Western Conference.
Luka Doncic of the Los Angeles Lakers drives to the basket as Michael Porter Jr. of the Brooklyn Nets defends him on Feb. 3, 2026. Corey Sipkin for NY Post
As for Doncic, he made it clear that he’s looking forward to the challenge of being the Lakers’ biggest superstar after LeBron James left for the 76ers in free agency in July.
“I was in this position in my career a lot of times, so it’s not new to me,” Doncic said. “But I feel great. I feel excited. And like I said, I’m ready to go. It’s been a long time since I played basketball, so I’m ready.”
Doncic missed all of last postseason after suffering a strained hamstring in April. He said he’s entering training camp healthy and without any restrictions.
“I’m feeling great,” he said. “I feel rested. Mentally I feel great, so I can’t wait just to start.”
With the oncoming start of a new NHL season comes the beginning of milestone countdowns for the Vancouver Canucks. 15 Canucks are currently on track to hit games-played milestones in 2026–27, with the numbers ranging from 100 to 1200.
Six Canucks Could Hit The 100-Game Mark In 2026–27
A total of six Canucks are slated to hit the 100-game mark during the 2026–27 season. The first in line to do so is defenceman Elias Pettersson, who needs only two more games to get to 100. If all goes as planned, this could mean he reaches the mark as early as Vancouver’s home-opener against the Edmonton Oilers on October 1.
After Pettersson on the 100-game trail is Liam Öhgren, who will hit the milestone in his third game of the season — the earliest being October 3 versus the Calgary Flames. Max Sasson is next, with five games to play in before reaching 100 in his career. If he plays in all of Vancouver’s first five games of the year, he’ll hit the mark on October 8 against the Carolina Hurricanes.
Three of Vancouver’s young defencemen are also within striking distance of 100 career games. Zeev Buium is currently the closest of the three with 24 to go, with the earliest date of reaching the milestone being November 19 against the Seattle Kraken. Tom Willander is next, requiring 30 games in 2026–27 to hit a career-total of 100. He could hit this mark as early as December 1 against the Washington Capitals.
Finally, if Victor Mancini plays in 45 games through the 2026–27 season, he’ll reach 100 through his NHL career. Playing in all of Vancouver’s first 45 games of the year would see him collect the milestone on January 5 against the New York Islanders, though with Vancouver’s D-core already projected, this is unlikely to happen.
Marco Rossi & Paul Cotter Could Reach 300, Drew O’Connor En Route To 400 Games
The next wave of games-played milestones in regards to the number of games played would see Marco Rossi and Paul Cotter reach 300 career-NHL games and Drew O’Connor reach the 400-game mark.
Of these three, the closest to their respective milestone is Cotter, who is four away from the 300-mark. Beginning the season with the team and skating in all four of their first games would put his 300th-game date on October 4 against the Vegas Golden Knights.
A bigger distance away is Rossi, who is 65 games away from 300 in his NHL career. The forward has only played in more than 65 games twice in his career, though if he can stay healthy, it’s not unreasonable to think he could do it in 2026–27. Playing in all of Vancouver’s games would see Rossi hit this milestone on February 25 against the St. Louis Blues.
Finally, O’Connor will need to play in nearly every game of the 2026–27 season to hit 400 NHL games, as he requires 77 to reach the milestone. The forward has skated in full-seasons for the past two years, even playing in 84 games in 2024–25 due to trades and his team’s schedules. If he remains with the Canucks past the 2026 Trade Deadline, he’ll reach 400 career games with Vancouver on March 25 versus the Golden Knights.
Two Canucks Veterans Are On Pace To Hit 600 NHL Games In 2026–27
Elias Pettersson and Filip Hronek are the two Canucks looking to hit the 600-game mark in 2026–27.
If both players skate in all of Vancouver’s games, Pettersson will be the one to reach the milestone first. The forward skated in his 500th-career NHL game on December 27, 2025 against the San Jose Sharks and became the 29th player to play in all 500 games with Vancouver. If he plays in all 600 games with Vancouver, he’ll be the 17th player in franchise history to do so. Pettersson requires 55 games to get to 600, with the projected date of this mark taking place on January 28 against the Dallas Stars.
Hronek will need a little more time than Pettersson to hit the 600-game mark, as he’ll need a total of 67 before he can reach it. He skated in his 500th-career NHL game on January 19, 2026 against the Islanders. The earliest date Hronek can hit 600 games by during the 2026–27 season is March 3 versus the Chicago Blackhawks.
Apr 14, 2026; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Vancouver Canucks forward Liam Ohgren (92) and defenseman Filip Hronek (17) and forward Ty Mueller (39) and forward Jake DeBrusk (74) and forward Elias Pettersson (40) and goalie Kevin Lankinen (32) celebrate their victory against the Los Angeles Kings in overtime at Rogers Arena. Mandatory Credit: Bob Frid-Imagn Images
Brock Boeser & Jake DeBrusk Eyeing 700-Career NHL Games Played
If both players remain with the Canucks and skate in all games through 2026–27, Boeser and DeBrusk will hit the 700-career NHL game mark one game away from one-another. Boeser is currently 71 games away from the milestone, while DeBrusk requires one extra with 72 to go.
Boeser hit the 600-game mark on January 17 against the Oilers during the 2025–26 season, becoming the 16th player in franchise history to reach the mark entirely with Vancouver. Playing in all 71 games leading up to the milestone would see the forward reach 700 on March 13 against the Toronto Maple Leafs.
DeBrusk reached 600 games only a little more than a week after Boeser did, skating in his 600th on January 29, 2026 against the Anaheim Ducks. Barring any injuries or roster moves, DeBrusk is projected to hit the 700-game mark a day after Boeser, on March 14, when the Canucks take on the Ottawa Senators.
Jamie Oleksiak Is Only 42 Games Away From 800
When Oleksiak signed with the Canucks in free-agency, he automatically became one of the team’s longest-tenured NHL players, second only to fellow defenceman Luke Schenn. Heading into the 2026–27 season, he only needs 42 more games to reach the 800-game mark in his career.
Tracing his previous season’s projections, this should be a reasonable goal for Oleksiak to reach, as he’s skated in more than 42 games throughout his past seven seasons in the NHL. Last season, the defenceman played in 78 games for the Kraken.
The earliest date that Oleksiak can reach the 800-game mark is, ironically enough, against his former team on December 30.
A Near Full-Season Will See Luke Schenn Hit 1200 NHL Games
The Canuck with the biggest potential milestone on the dockett for the 2026–27 season is none-other than now three-time Canucks defenceman Schenn. Currently at 1122 NHL games played, the defenceman is 78 games away from reaching the 1200-game mark in his career. 139 of his current game total has been spent with Vancouver throughout the two other stints he played in.
If he plays in all the Canucks’ games from the start of the season to the 78-game mark, Schenn will hit 1200 against the very team that traded him to Vancouver in his first stint with the team, the Ducks. This game is currently scheduled for March 27 in Vancouver.
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For Ziaire Williams, signing with the Lakers was even more significant compared to most of the team’s offseason additions.
Williams, the 25-year-old forward the Lakers signed to a veteran’s minimum contract after playing for the Grizzlies (2021-24) and Nets (2024-26), was born about 60 miles north of Los Angeles in Lancaster.
He was born just after the second championship of the Lakers’ Shaquille O’Neal/Kobe Bryant-led three-peat in the early 2000s, and was a kid when Bryant led the franchise to two more championships in 2009 and ‘10.
Joining the Lakers is a homecoming for Ziaire Williams. AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill
Williams went to high school at Notre Dame in Sherman Oaks before transferring to Sierra Canyon for his senior year, playing alongside his now Lakers teammate Bronny James.
He referred to joining the Lakers as a “full circle” moment.
“It’s a blessing, man,” Williams said. “I remember being six years old in a YMCA Junior Lakers jersey in Lancaster. Just growing up and seeing the LA culture, watching the the championship parades on the street. It’s purple and gold everywhere, man. My family bleeds purple and gold, so just to be able to throw the jersey on and be able to play on the biggest stage of the world is a blessing for sure.”
Williams isn’t alone one of the Lakers’ new additions who grew up loving the franchise.
Collin Sexton, the veteran guard the Lakers signed to a two-year deal (player option for 2027-28), said during the Lakers Monday media day that he “grew up loving Kobe Bryant”.
Walking into the Lakers’ practice facility brought back memories for Sexton, who reflected on watching the team’s games when he was a little kid, but also talking with fans of the franchise since joining the team this summer.
Quentin Grimes is used to playing in big-market NBA cities like Los Angeles. William Liang for CA Post
“You can tell they love their team,” Sexton said. “I’m super excited to be here and just thankful to be a part of the organization. I can remember my first basketball recreation [team], I was playing for the Lakers jersey, number 10, so that’s why I also chose number 10. So I got to pull that picture up somewhere so you guys can see that.”
Sexton and Williams are among the nine new players the Lakers added during the offseason to complement star guards Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves.
Walker Kessler, the franchise’s marquee offseason addition, got a taste of how far the Lakers’ reach is while the team was in Slovenia for the Doncic-sponsored mini camp.
“The amount of Lakers fans, and obviously Luka fans, but just Lakers jerseys and kids and adults, just everyone just being so excited to see the Lakers, I mean, it’s one of the biggest brands in all of sports internationally,” Kessler said. “With the fan base and everyone loves the Lakers and wants them to succeed.”
Walker Kessler already feels the level of expectations that comes with being a Laker. William Liang for CA Post
Kessler felt the Lakers historic significance when he got a firsthand look at the Lakers’ 17 NBA championship banners hanging in their El Segundo practice facility.
“That can be looked at as pressure, so to speak,” he added. “But I think it’s more of an opportunity to play for a historic franchise, to play for a franchise that has done. I mean, you can look to your left [gestures to championship trophies] and see it, I mean, it’s insane. To play for a history like this, I don’t really feel pressure. I just feel grateful, grateful for this opportunity and grateful to play for this franchise.”
Quentin Grimes, who’s already played for the 76ers and Knicks, as well as the Pistons and Mavericks, is well aware of the pressure that comes with playing for an NBA team in a big market like Los Angeles.
Matisse Thybulle is eager for his Lakers experience. William Liang for CA Post
“L.A. is a different beast,” Grimes said. “It’s one of the, if not the most coveted sports team basketball-wise in the country for sure, one of the most prestigious ones as well. Everybody knows the Lakers. You go anywhere around the world and everybody knows that Lakers logo, everybody’s heard of the Lakers. But like I said, it’s one of the top markets in the world in general, sports aside. So you just gotta not worry about if you get good praise, bad praise.
“At the end of the day, I’m here to play basketball, and I’m here to handle business every single day. So you can’t get caught up in external noise because you got our team, that’s the only noise we’re really worried about. So that’s the only thing you got to worry about. Just keep the main thing the main thing and everything will be alright.
For Matisse Thybulle, another wing the Lakers signed to a one-year deal, is looking forward to experiencing what it’s like to play for the NBA’s marquee franchises.
“Just as an NBA player, it’s just widely accepted that it’s a big deal to play for the Lakers,” Thybulle said. “And for me, not having yet done that, just being able to put the jersey on and take some photos, I don’t think it’s fully settled in. But I look forward to the first game and just to get this season going and see what that support really feels like from a local and global standpoint.”
For Ziaire Williams, signing with the Lakers was even more significant compared to most of the team’s offseason additions.
Williams, the 25-year-old forward the Lakers signed to a veteran’s minimum contract after playing for the Grizzlies (2021-24) and Nets (2024-26), was born about 60 miles north of Los Angeles in Lancaster.
He was born just after the second championship of the Lakers’ Shaquille O’Neal/Kobe Bryant-led three-peat in the early 2000s, and was a kid when Bryant led the franchise to two more championships in 2009 and ‘10.
Joining the Lakers is a homecoming for Ziaire Williams. AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill
Williams went to high school at Notre Dame in Sherman Oaks before transferring to Sierra Canyon for his senior year, playing alongside his now Lakers teammate Bronny James.
He referred to joining the Lakers as a “full circle” moment.
“It’s a blessing, man,” Williams said. “I remember being six years old in a YMCA Junior Lakers jersey in Lancaster. Just growing up and seeing the LA culture, watching the the championship parades on the street. It’s purple and gold everywhere, man. My family bleeds purple and gold, so just to be able to throw the jersey on and be able to play on the biggest stage of the world is a blessing for sure.”
Williams isn’t alone one of the Lakers’ new additions who grew up loving the franchise.
Collin Sexton, the veteran guard the Lakers signed to a two-year deal (player option for 2027-28), said during the Lakers Monday media day that he “grew up loving Kobe Bryant”.
Walking into the Lakers’ practice facility brought back memories for Sexton, who reflected on watching the team’s games when he was a little kid, but also talking with fans of the franchise since joining the team this summer.
Quentin Grimes is used to playing in big-market NBA cities like Los Angeles. William Liang for CA Post
“You can tell they love their team,” Sexton said. “I’m super excited to be here and just thankful to be a part of the organization. I can remember my first basketball recreation [team], I was playing for the Lakers jersey, number 10, so that’s why I also chose number 10. So I got to pull that picture up somewhere so you guys can see that.”
Sexton and Williams are among the nine new players the Lakers added during the offseason to complement star guards Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves.
Walker Kessler, the franchise’s marquee offseason addition, got a taste of how far the Lakers’ reach is while the team was in Slovenia for the Doncic-sponsored mini camp.
“The amount of Lakers fans, and obviously Luka fans, but just Lakers jerseys and kids and adults, just everyone just being so excited to see the Lakers, I mean, it’s one of the biggest brands in all of sports internationally,” Kessler said. “With the fan base and everyone loves the Lakers and wants them to succeed.”
Walker Kessler already feels the level of expectations that comes with being a Laker. William Liang for CA Post
Kessler felt the Lakers historic significance when he got a firsthand look at the Lakers’ 17 NBA championship banners hanging in their El Segundo practice facility.
“That can be looked at as pressure, so to speak,” he added. “But I think it’s more of an opportunity to play for a historic franchise, to play for a franchise that has done. I mean, you can look to your left [gestures to championship trophies] and see it, I mean, it’s insane. To play for a history like this, I don’t really feel pressure. I just feel grateful, grateful for this opportunity and grateful to play for this franchise.”
Quentin Grimes, who’s already played for the 76ers and Knicks, as well as the Pistons and Mavericks, is well aware of the pressure that comes with playing for an NBA team in a big market like Los Angeles.
Matisse Thybulle is eager for his Lakers experience. William Liang for CA Post
“L.A. is a different beast,” Grimes said. “It’s one of the, if not the most coveted sports team basketball-wise in the country for sure, one of the most prestigious ones as well. Everybody knows the Lakers. You go anywhere around the world and everybody knows that Lakers logo, everybody’s heard of the Lakers. But like I said, it’s one of the top markets in the world in general, sports aside. So you just gotta not worry about if you get good praise, bad praise.
“At the end of the day, I’m here to play basketball, and I’m here to handle business every single day. So you can’t get caught up in external noise because you got our team, that’s the only noise we’re really worried about. So that’s the only thing you got to worry about. Just keep the main thing the main thing and everything will be alright.
For Matisse Thybulle, another wing the Lakers signed to a one-year deal, is looking forward to experiencing what it’s like to play for the NBA’s marquee franchises.
“Just as an NBA player, it’s just widely accepted that it’s a big deal to play for the Lakers,” Thybulle said. “And for me, not having yet done that, just being able to put the jersey on and take some photos, I don’t think it’s fully settled in. But I look forward to the first game and just to get this season going and see what that support really feels like from a local and global standpoint.”
MIAMI, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 27: Ronald Acuña Jr. #13 of the Atlanta Braves looks on during the seventh inning against the Miami Marlins at loanDepot park on September 27, 2026 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Leonardo Fernandez/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Happy Wild Card eve to all who celebrate. How are we feeling?
Firstly, a hype video for you. This year’s campaign theme and accompanying hashtag? LET IT FLY.
Are you hype enough yet? Let us know the creative ways you’re playing hooky with work or school for tomorrow’s 2 pm ET contest. We can write you a permission slip if you need.
It’s been a busy day for Demetrius and company with today’s team workout and other new info on tomorrow’s matchup. ICYMI…
Tomorrow night’s home plate umpire has recent Altercations against both teams:
Tomorrow’s starter for Philly is Jesús Luzardo. But they’ll be without their main trade deadline piece:
And that’s what you missed on BP. The floor’s yours for your hopes, fears, predictions, prayers to baseball gods, and whatever else is on your mind tonight.
After having multiple months to reflect, franchise superstar Luka Doncic provided his thoughts of the Lakers’ efforts to construct a team around him that they hope will contend for an NBA title.
“I like everybody that we signed,” Doncic said during the team’s Monday media day. “There’s a lot of underrated guys, a lot of new guys that are underrated. Got to spend some time with them obviously off court. Now the training camp is going to help us a lot, focus on basketball, get to know what they like on the court, but I’m very excited to play with all of them.”
Luka Doncic gave his thoughts on the Lakers’ roster moves. William Liang for CA Post
The Lakers enter the start of training camp on Tuesday with nine new players.
But none of them are bigger – figuratively and literally – than Walker Kessler, the 7-foot-2 center the Lakers not only signed to a four-year, $130 million contract, but also sent the Jazz unprotected first-round draft picks in 2031 and 2033 and first-round swaps in 2028 and 2030 to acquire.
Doncic identified Kessler as a player he wanted the Lakers to acquire.
And the franchise, led by president of basketball operations/general manager Rob Pelinka, got the type of big man rim-protecting, lob threat Doncic had been wanting to play alongside since coming to Los Angeles in February 2025.
“I played a lot of games against Walker, so it was always tough to play against him,” Doncic said. “I really wanted him. The organization wanted him, I wanted him, all the players wanted him, so I think it’s an amazing fit for us. Obviously a rim protector, but then offensively he improved so much that he’s going to help us a lot.”
Walker Kessler is the Lakers’ biggest offseason addition. William Liang for CA Post
Kessler found himself fitting in quickly.
He recalled receiving his first lob from Doncic during the team’s Doncic-sponsored trip to Slovenia last month.
“I don’t even think he was looking at me, and he kind of just threw it and I was there,” Kessler said. “I mean, I’ve heard a lot of people say that about playing with him. So caught it, dunked it, ran back down, high fived and I was like, ‘yup, I can get used to this’.”
Kessler wasn’t the only significant addition to the Lakers’ roster.
Quentin Grimes is also one of the Lakers’ key additions. William Liang for CA Post
Sexton agreed with Doncic’s assessment of the roster moves.
“We’re all underrated, if that makes [sense],” Sexton said. “We’re competitors. I feel like we added people that are willing to compete, and we added guys that [don’t] back down to anyone. I know for myself, I’m somebody that’s not gonna back down to any challenge or not gonna back down to anyone.
“Whenever I step between those lines, there’s no friends. It’s us versus them. So I know it can look like we’re underrated [at] times.”
The re-signing of Austin Reaves was the Lakers’ most important offseason move. William Liang for CA Post
With LeBron James with the 76ers and no longer with the Lakers, Doncic and Reaves are stepping into more significant leadership roles.
“He improved a lot,” Doncic said of Reaves. “He just talks more to a lot of people. Obviously the new players, they look up to him, asking things. So I think he [took] a big step forward.”
After having multiple months to reflect, franchise superstar Luka Doncic provided his thoughts of the Lakers’ efforts to construct a team around him that they hope will contend for an NBA title.
“I like everybody that we signed,” Doncic said during the team’s Monday media day. “There’s a lot of underrated guys, a lot of new guys that are underrated. Got to spend some time with them obviously off court. Now the training camp is going to help us a lot, focus on basketball, get to know what they like on the court, but I’m very excited to play with all of them.”
Luka Doncic gave his thoughts on the Lakers’ roster moves. William Liang for CA Post
The Lakers enter the start of training camp on Tuesday with nine new players.
But none of them are bigger – figuratively and literally – than Walker Kessler, the 7-foot-2 center the Lakers not only signed to a four-year, $130 million contract, but also sent the Jazz unprotected first-round draft picks in 2031 and 2033 and first-round swaps in 2028 and 2030 to acquire.
Doncic identified Kessler as a player he wanted the Lakers to acquire.
And the franchise, led by president of basketball operations/general manager Rob Pelinka, got the type of big man rim-protecting, lob threat Doncic had been wanting to play alongside since coming to Los Angeles in February 2025.
“I played a lot of games against Walker, so it was always tough to play against him,” Doncic said. “I really wanted him. The organization wanted him, I wanted him, all the players wanted him, so I think it’s an amazing fit for us. Obviously a rim protector, but then offensively he improved so much that he’s going to help us a lot.”
Walker Kessler is the Lakers’ biggest offseason addition. William Liang for CA Post
Kessler found himself fitting in quickly.
He recalled receiving his first lob from Doncic during the team’s Doncic-sponsored trip to Slovenia last month.
“I don’t even think he was looking at me, and he kind of just threw it and I was there,” Kessler said. “I mean, I’ve heard a lot of people say that about playing with him. So caught it, dunked it, ran back down, high fived and I was like, ‘yup, I can get used to this’.”
Kessler wasn’t the only significant addition to the Lakers’ roster.
Quentin Grimes is also one of the Lakers’ key additions. William Liang for CA Post
Sexton agreed with Doncic’s assessment of the roster moves.
“We’re all underrated, if that makes [sense],” Sexton said. “We’re competitors. I feel like we added people that are willing to compete, and we added guys that [don’t] back down to anyone. I know for myself, I’m somebody that’s not gonna back down to any challenge or not gonna back down to anyone.
“Whenever I step between those lines, there’s no friends. It’s us versus them. So I know it can look like we’re underrated [at] times.”
The re-signing of Austin Reaves was the Lakers’ most important offseason move. William Liang for CA Post
With LeBron James with the 76ers and no longer with the Lakers, Doncic and Reaves are stepping into more significant leadership roles.
“He improved a lot,” Doncic said of Reaves. “He just talks more to a lot of people. Obviously the new players, they look up to him, asking things. So I think he [took] a big step forward.”
New York Mets President of Baseball Operations David Stearns speaks during his end of year press conference, Monday, September 28, 2026, at Citi Field.
In assessing the Mets’ brutal 74-win season, president of baseball operations David Stearns on Monday cited changes that went badly.
“We and I made a number of decisions that created the potential for almost an uncapped downside scenario,” Stearns said at Citi Field. “We had a lot of change. I think change in New York is probably different than change in other markets.”
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In addition to overhauling the roster nucleus, Stearns implemented an almost entirely new coaching staff. The Mets got buried in the first three months of the season, and even a solid post-trade deadline showing couldn’t rescue the team.
“My job is to put a winning team on the field every single year,” Stearns said when asked about the pressure he is facing. “That hasn’t changed.”
In a 32-minute session with reporters, he offered few specifics but acknowledged the starting rotation will be a point of emphasis. But with lefty ace Tarik Skubal looming as the top free agent, Stearns declined to say if he might be active in the top end of the pitching market.
“I do think it is necessary for us to add to our starting rotation,” Stearns said. “We can do that in a variety of different ways. You would always love to add to the top of your rotation. Any team would love to do that. Over the long term, what we need to do is develop pitchers at the top of a rotation, and I think we are proving we can do that, and we’ll continue to do that.”
New York Mets President of Baseball Operations David Stearns speaks during his end of year press conference, Monday, September 28, 2026, at Citi Field. Heather Khalifa for NY Post
Nolan McLean, after a strong rookie season, is a lock for the rotation, and homegrown options Christian Scott and Zac Thornton appear in strong position for spots.
The Mets also have Sean Manaea under contract for another season and Kodai Senga as a starting or relief option. Tylor Megill will be returning from a season of Tommy John surgery rehab and could factor in either as a starter or reliever, according to Stearns.
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First base remains a jigsaw puzzle — Jorge Polanco will be returning from ankle surgery after his underwhelming first season in Queens, and Jared Young remains in the equation after a solid showing as a stopgap. Stearns also mentioned Brett Baty — following his strong August and September — as an option to receive regular at-bats.
“Marcus [Semien] didn’t have the type of year offensively that he wanted, that we would expect,” Stearns said. “Brett showed us our last four, six weeks of the season what his ceiling looks like, and we need him to get to that ceiling more consistently.”
Stearns said there are “really good minor league infielders knocking on the door.” That list includes top prospect Jefferson Rojas and Émilien Pitre, who was acquired from the Rays at the trade deadline.
“Sitting here right now, I’m not going to commit to what second base looks like next year,” Stearns said. “But I do think we’ve got some really good players both at the major league level and prospects that are coming that can make that a productive position for us.
“Our goal is not to build the team through free agency. Our goal is to have a consistent pipeline of young talent that can consistently restock a team — they’re going to be selective, very aggressive pursuits. We have complete ownership support to make those selective, very aggressive pursuits, and I think we will continue to do that.”
New York Mets designated hitter Jorge Polanco reacts after striking out swinging in the sixth inning of a game against the Miami Marlins, Friday, July 31, 2026, at Citi Field. Charles Wenzelberg / New York Post
“Derek is one of the better executives in our sport,” Stearns said. “He’s got a tremendous amount of experience. He’s touched every aspect of baseball operations over the course of his career around the business side in Minnesota as well. So, I think he’s going to help us everywhere. He’s a great thought partner. He can provide some different life experiences and different perspectives.”
SAN FRANCISCO ― A decade ago the Golden State Warriors were the clear-favorite to win a NBA title, now, 10 years later, many don't have them making the playoffs – and that's okay with them.
A shocking prediction, yes. But they are perfectly fine with not having those expectations as they step into the 2026-27 season with a fresh outlook.
Head coach Steve Kerr is back after contemplating retirement, signing a two-year extension with the Warriors. Golden State has practically the same roster as last year – returning nearly every key player, while adding Georges Niang and Brandon Williams.
"It's been a long offseason, too long, not making the playoffs last year. But I'm thrilled about starting the climb again, day one, and training camp. There's always a sense of excitement," Kerr said. "I feel really good about this team, and I'm really optimistic. I love our guys, and I think we have a chance to have a really good year. There's a lot of really good players and a lot of good energy with what we're doing right now."
The Warriors finished with a 37-45 record but still managed to creep into the NBA Play-In tournament. They lost the elimination game for the No. 8-seed to the Phoenix Suns, however, marking just the second time since their 2022 championship that they missed the postseason.
Many experts predict the Warriors to have a similar record in the 2026-27 season, which makes sense seeing as they have a nearly identical team. USA TODAY Sports' Lorenzo Reyes projects Golden State to finish 41-41 in the regular season, ninth in the Western Conference. ESPN predicts the Warriors to finish two games worse than last year at 35-47.
Players and coaches aren't paying attention to outside noise, however. Here are the main takeaways from Warriors Media Day on Monday, Sept. 28:
Warriors starting forward Jimmy Butler III has been rehabilitating a torn ACL he suffered last year. Moses Moody missed the final 22 games of the 2025-26 season with a torn patellar tendon but showed he can be a key rotational piece off the bench.
Neither Butler nor Moody will be suiting up on opening day, but they will travel with the team to Hawaii for training camp and preseason games. Another key player who will be missing is center, Kristaps Porzingis, who is out with an undisclosed health issue, Warriors general manager Mike Dunleavy said.
Lendeborg helped lead the Warriors' summer league team to a title and earned MVP honors along the way. His awards might not stop there. He believes that he can make his way to an All-Rookie first team and even win Rookie of the Year.
His teammates had high praise for his skill and physique. Butler's thoughts on Lendeborg is that "he's (expletive) massive."
Jimmy Butler when asked about his initial thoughts on Yaxel Lendeborg:
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - SEPTEMBER 28: Yaxel Lendeborg #1 of the Golden State Warriors poses for a picture during media day at Chase Center on September 28, 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
Golden State Warriors rookie Yaxel Lendeborg turned heads with his infectious confidence and humor during NBA Media Day. The 11th overall draft pick reflected on his rapid adjustment to the professional level following an impressive Summer League campaign.
Lendeborg expressed awe at playing alongside Stephen Curry, pointing out the gravity Curry commands on the court. “I’ve never come off a screen and seen nobody in front or behind me,” Lendeborg joked when describing a scrimmage sequence. He also lightheartedly claimed to have blocked a Curry three-pointer during practice, telling reporters, “They said it was a foul. I told my friends it was a block.”
Yaxel Lendeborg on the slip cut in a scrimmage off Steph’s gravity: “I’ve never come off a screen and seen nobody in front or behind me.”
He also said he blocked a Steph 3: “They said it was a fouls. I told my friends it was a block. pic.twitter.com/JQxEr5yIaP
Beyond the humor, Lendeborg voiced ambitious personal goals for his debut season, targeting an All-Rookie First Team selection. Head coach Steve Kerr praised his size and versatility, confirming Lendeborg is poised to play a major role in the Warriors’ rotation this season.
Yaxel Lendeborg said he wants to be All-Rookie first team: "I feel like I could be Rookie of the Year, but that's not my main focus."
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - SEPTEMBER 28: Yaxel Lendeborg #1 of the Golden State Warriors poses for a picture during media day at Chase Center on September 28, 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
Golden State Warriors rookie Yaxel Lendeborg turned heads with his infectious confidence and humor during NBA Media Day. The 11th overall draft pick reflected on his rapid adjustment to the professional level following an impressive Summer League campaign.
Lendeborg expressed awe at playing alongside Stephen Curry, pointing out the gravity Curry commands on the court. “I’ve never come off a screen and seen nobody in front or behind me,” Lendeborg joked when describing a scrimmage sequence. He also lightheartedly claimed to have blocked a Curry three-pointer during practice, telling reporters, “They said it was a foul. I told my friends it was a block.”
Yaxel Lendeborg on the slip cut in a scrimmage off Steph’s gravity: “I’ve never come off a screen and seen nobody in front or behind me.”
He also said he blocked a Steph 3: “They said it was a fouls. I told my friends it was a block. pic.twitter.com/JQxEr5yIaP
Beyond the humor, Lendeborg voiced ambitious personal goals for his debut season, targeting an All-Rookie First Team selection. Head coach Steve Kerr praised his size and versatility, confirming Lendeborg is poised to play a major role in the Warriors’ rotation this season.
Yaxel Lendeborg said he wants to be All-Rookie first team: "I feel like I could be Rookie of the Year, but that's not my main focus."
Their megastar over the last eight years was nearly 3,000 miles away, talking about trying to win a championship in Philadelphia.
It was weird.
This has never happened to the Lakers before. A superstar has never chosen to leave the purple and gold. Let that sink in for a second.
LeBron James left the Lakers this offseason. JASON SZENES/ NY POST
The Lakers’ biggest stars have all opted to end their careers in Los Angeles, including Wilt Chamberlain, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Magic Johnson and Kobe Bryant. Some superstars have been traded, such as Shaquille O’Neal.
But none have chosen to leave.
So, things felt a little odd at the Lakers’ practice facility in El Segundo on Monday.
There were fewer reporters. There was less sparkle. Less intrigue.
The longest-tenured player on the Lakers now? Austin Reaves. The most charismatic? Arguably Walker Kessler, who keeps talking about wanting to run through walls for the Lakers.
Sure, James not being on the Lakers is old news. He chose to sign a two-year, $8 million deal with the 76ers in free agency in July. But this is the first time we saw it. This is the first time we felt it.
James was wearing a blue and red jersey. And the Lakers were really without him.
LeBron James poses for a photo during media day in Camden, N.J. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
Some people think they’re better off.
Lakers coach JJ Redick said Thursday that this is the first time since he took over the helm in June 2024 that all of the pieces fit.
Doncic didn’t hesitate when asked how he feels now that the Lakers are his team.
“It feels great,” Doncic said. “…I was in this position in my career a lot of times, so it’s not new to me.”
Even Bronny James didn’t blink when asked about his father taking his talents across the country.
“We’re men of very little words when it comes to talking about business and what we’re going to do and how we feel about each other, so there wasn’t really much to be honest with you,” Bronny James said of their discussions over the summer. “I mean he’s got his own path and I got my own. So he knows that I want to make a name for myself and continue my career and keep growing as a player. And he knows that I want to focus on that.”
The world moves on.
Reaves praised James for giving him the cheat code on how to care for his body. Lakers general manager and president of basketball operations Rob Pelinka said Thursday that James’ tenure with the Lakers was a “great era.”
But this is a new phenomenon for a team that has seen it all while under the harshest of microscopes in the NBA.
Maybe the Lakers wanted to move on from James. Maybe James felt underappreciated. Maybe he wanted a fresh start. Maybe all of that is true.
James is still one of the top players in the league at age 41, having single-handedly carried the Lakers to a 3-0 lead over the Rockets in the first round of the playoffs last season without Doncic and Reaves.
But his time with the Lakers had turned stale. Pelinka spent the offseason tailoring the roster around Doncic, including emptying out the cupboard for Walker Kessler. The Lakers are ready to move forward.
Luka Doncic attends media day at the UCLA Health Training Center on Monday, September 28, 2026, in El Segundo, California. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
It’s a major period of transition for a franchise that has no patience for anything but winning.
Not only did James leave, but the Lakers experienced their second ownership change in 14 months after being under the Buss family’s reign for 47 years. It’s a lot.
But there’s also a lot of optimism around the Lakers.
Doncic is healthy after suffering a strained hamstring in April that sidelined him for the playoffs. Reaves is already stepping up as a leader. Walker wants nothing more than to prove that he was worth the Lakers sending two unprotected first-round draft picks and two first-round pick swaps to Utah to acquire him.
There are nine new players. They’re all thrilled to be playing for a franchise that has won 17 NBA championships. They’re all excited to share the court with Doncic.
But there’s also a weird feeling in Laker Land.
LeBron James is gone.
He chose to leave.
And let’s call it like it is: That dulls the shine on the purple and gold.
Their megastar over the last eight years was nearly 3,000 miles away, talking about trying to win a championship in Philadelphia.
It was weird.
This has never happened to the Lakers before. A superstar has never chosen to leave the purple and gold. Let that sink in for a second.
LeBron James left the Lakers this offseason. JASON SZENES/ NY POST
The Lakers’ biggest stars have all opted to end their careers in Los Angeles, including Wilt Chamberlain, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Magic Johnson and Kobe Bryant. Some superstars have been traded, such as Shaquille O’Neal.
But none have chosen to leave.
So, things felt a little odd at the Lakers’ practice facility in El Segundo on Monday.
There were fewer reporters. There was less sparkle. Less intrigue.
The longest-tenured player on the Lakers now? Austin Reaves. The most charismatic? Arguably Walker Kessler, who keeps talking about wanting to run through walls for the Lakers.
Sure, James not being on the Lakers is old news. He chose to sign a two-year, $8 million deal with the 76ers in free agency in July. But this is the first time we saw it. This is the first time we felt it.
James was wearing a blue and red jersey. And the Lakers were really without him.
LeBron James poses for a photo during media day in Camden, N.J. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
Some people think they’re better off.
Lakers coach JJ Redick said Thursday that this is the first time since he took over the helm in June 2024 that all of the pieces fit.
Doncic didn’t hesitate when asked how he feels now that the Lakers are his team.
“It feels great,” Doncic said. “…I was in this position in my career a lot of times, so it’s not new to me.”
Even Bronny James didn’t blink when asked about his father taking his talents across the country.
“We’re men of very little words when it comes to talking about business and what we’re going to do and how we feel about each other, so there wasn’t really much to be honest with you,” Bronny James said of their discussions over the summer. “I mean he’s got his own path and I got my own. So he knows that I want to make a name for myself and continue my career and keep growing as a player. And he knows that I want to focus on that.”
The world moves on.
Reaves praised James for giving him the cheat code on how to care for his body. Lakers general manager and president of basketball operations Rob Pelinka said Thursday that James’ tenure with the Lakers was a “great era.”
But this is a new phenomenon for a team that has seen it all while under the harshest of microscopes in the NBA.
Maybe the Lakers wanted to move on from James. Maybe James felt underappreciated. Maybe he wanted a fresh start. Maybe all of that is true.
James is still one of the top players in the league at age 41, having single-handedly carried the Lakers to a 3-0 lead over the Rockets in the first round of the playoffs last season without Doncic and Reaves.
But his time with the Lakers had turned stale. Pelinka spent the offseason tailoring the roster around Doncic, including emptying out the cupboard for Walker Kessler. The Lakers are ready to move forward.
Luka Doncic attends media day at the UCLA Health Training Center on Monday, September 28, 2026, in El Segundo, California. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
It’s a major period of transition for a franchise that has no patience for anything but winning.
Not only did James leave, but the Lakers experienced their second ownership change in 14 months after being under the Buss family’s reign for 47 years. It’s a lot.
But there’s also a lot of optimism around the Lakers.
Doncic is healthy after suffering a strained hamstring in April that sidelined him for the playoffs. Reaves is already stepping up as a leader. Walker wants nothing more than to prove that he was worth the Lakers sending two unprotected first-round draft picks and two first-round pick swaps to Utah to acquire him.
There are nine new players. They’re all thrilled to be playing for a franchise that has won 17 NBA championships. They’re all excited to share the court with Doncic.
But there’s also a weird feeling in Laker Land.
LeBron James is gone.
He chose to leave.
And let’s call it like it is: That dulls the shine on the purple and gold.
“The key was I was playing great golf,” Doncic said. “He gave me some strokes, I’m not going to lie — as he should.”
Reaves spoke about the events his group won in Slovenia and how they beat Doncic in the process.
“We won the rowing, we won the golf, we won bowling,” Reaves said. “Luka tried to put on a blue shirt when his rowing team lost, which is crazy. But he did host us, so we let him hold the first-place trophy for once.”
The two friends and teammates have developed a closeness that their teammates have noticed.
“They get along so well that it’s kind of easy for them to co-lead this team — in different ways sometimes,” Jake LaRavia said. “I think sometimes Luka leads by example and we watch him and we watch how he goes about himself. AR can sometimes be a bit more vocal. But I think they both do a great job at what they are good at it when it comes to being leaders for this team.”
Doncic led the NBA in scoring last season (33.5 points per game) and was third in assists (8.3). He averaged 7.7 rebounds and shot 47.6%, including 36.6% from three-point range.
Lakers guard Luka Doncic speaks during the team's media day in El Segundo on Monday. (Eric Thaye r/ Los Angeles Times)
The three-year, $165-million contract extension Doncic signed last year kicked in this season.
“Obviously, it’s a new challenge,” he said about his leadership role. “I was in this position in my career a lot of times, so it’s not new to me. But I feel great, I feel excited, and like I said, I’m ready to go. It’s been a long time since I played basketball, so I’m ready.”
Reaves is entering his sixth season with the Lakers, making him the longest-tenured player on the team. In June, he signed a four-year, $180-million deal, the largest contract for an undrafted player in NBA history.
Reaves earned it by averaging career-highs in points (23.2) and rebounds (4.7).
The Lakers have nine new players and Reaves knows he’ll need to provide guidance.
“I think it’s different for everybody,” Reaves said. “I’m not going to lead the same way Bron does. I’m not going to lead the same way Luka does. I like to do things a little different. I was talking about doing more one-on-one conversations. There will be times where I need to speak up in group settings and I’ll do that when the time comes. But I think you just got to be true to yourself and do what’s comfortable for you.”
Doncic played in just 64 games last season. He missed the last five regular-season games and all of the playoffs with a left hamstring strain. After spending time in Europe rehabbing his hamstring over the summer, Doncic said he’s healthy and ready to go with no restrictions when the Lakers begin training camp Tuesday.
“I know I had a lot of time, just taking it slowly, not taking no risks,” Doncic said. “But right now, I’m feeling great. I feel rested. Mentally I feel great, so I can’t wait just to start.”
With Walker Kessler, Quentin Grimes, Jaden Hardy, Kevon Looney, Sandro Mamukelashvili, Collin Sexton, Matisse Thybulle and Ziaire Williams among the newcomers on the Lakers, Doncic and Reaves are looking forward to what comes next.
“I like everybody that we signed,” Doncic said. “I think there’s a lot of underrated guys. ... Now training camp is going to help us a lot, focus on basketball, get to know what they like on the court, but I’m very excited to play with all of them.”
OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - APRIL 22: Khaman Maluach #10 and Devin Booker #1 of the Phoenix Suns celebrate during the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder during Round One Game Two of the 2026 NBA Playoffs on April 22, 2026 at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. 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 Barry Gossage/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
There is no one more important to the future of the Phoenix Suns and Devin Booker’s legacy than second-year center Khaman Maluach. Selected 10th overall in the 2025 Draft and with rare physical attributes, the Duke alum had a dominant Las Vegas Summer League showing, averaging 20 points and 13 rebounds, earning him an All-Summer League Second team selection. With Mark Williams sidelined for the foreseeable due to a shoulder injury, he’s got a golden opportunity to make a major leap, become the team’s starting center and prove that he can be a cornerstone piece next to Booker in building the next elite Suns team. He’s taking initiative to make sure he becomes the game changer the team envisions him as.
On media day Monday, Booker shared that the two worked out during the offseason after Maluach reached out. Booker had heavy praise for the 20-year old, saying he’s taken the “biggest leap,” out of anyone he’s seen this summer.
Devin Booker on working with Khaman Maluach during the summer.
"It's something that he reached out to me about. We would end up being in the gym at the same time late night and then one time he just texted me and was like 'Can we, can we get some work in together?' I think that… pic.twitter.com/oq1qcOhEUO
With Booker playing the best basketball of his career when Deandre Ayton was in conversations for being one of the best young centers in the NBA and playing at a high level, the strong words from the franchise’s best player bode well for Maluach’s chances to start.
What differentiates Maluach compared to the other centers that Booker’s played alongside is not only his physical attributes (he’s 7’1” with a 7’7” wingspan), but also his willingness and ability to shoot the three, something he improved on during the Summer, shooting 40% from three in Vegas after shooting just 24% from deep during his rookie campaign. Outside of Aron Baynes and Dario Šarić, he hasn’t played alongside many bigs who have the same potential to space the floor as he can.
Suns GM Brian Gregory said that he’s competing for the starting center spot and noted that he looks stronger and runs differently than a season ago. His biggest competitor for the position is Oso Ighodaro, who started 28 games last season, including all of the team’s playoff contests. Ighodaro is another one of the team’s best prospects, who made significant leaps in his second season and was the only Sun to play in all 82 games. His passing, durability and basketball awareness make him a valuable piece for the team’s offense.
While there’s a golden opportunity for the 2025 lottery pick to become the starter, Maluach says he just wants to do what’s best for the team, even if it means he comes off the bench.
I asked Khaman Maluach how he doesn’t let the pressure of competing for the team’s starting center spot get to him.
“It’s not like, oh who's gonna start or who's gonna play this kind of minutes. It’s what the team needs. If that night Oso is a good matchup for whatever center… pic.twitter.com/rAKdcsIKEU
While Booker’s praise of Maluach has made most of the headlines, the second-year big received a sea of compliments from his teammates and members of the organization on his character Monday, including newly signed guard Pat Spencer and team CEO Josh Bartelstein.
With many of the best teams’ rosters built on elite guard/big duos (The New York Knicks with Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns and the Oklahoma City Thunder with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Chet Holmgren), Khaman Maluach and Devin Booker are trying to take the first steps in building a rapport that can help them compete with the best of the Western Conference, and Maluach is making it easy for Booker to work with him.
