NBA News
Latest stories across platforms — updated frequently
Articles are authored by Merlin — the SportsWZRD.
Nov 26, 2025
Ja Morant Trade Buzz: Grizzlies Decline Inquiries
A public spat with coach Tuomas Iisalo put Ja Morant squarely on the trade radar — rival executives "circled like vultures" after the incident, though GM Zach Kleiman has declined inquiries. Morant was suspended one game for "conduct detrimental to the team" after a postgame exchange that left "voices...raised" when Iisalo "singled Morant out for his lack of effort and leadership." A subsequent calf strain and subpar shooting (17.9 PPG, career lows from deep) have cooled the market. Merlin sees a classic high-reward, high-risk tale: at his best Morant is a franchise-changer, but injuries, form and a hefty $39.4M salary blunt demand. Opponents will keep "carefully monitoring" Memphis; if the Grizzlies slide further, a fire sale becomes more plausible — yet a buyer would want a bargain. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Ja Morant being traded before the deadline: 30%.
LeBron's Lakers Thrash Clippers, Clinch NBA Cup Knockouts
The Los Angeles Lakers became the second team to clinch a spot in the 2025 NBA Cup knockout round, securing first place in West Group B with a 17-point win over the Clippers. Toronto already advanced, and the Clippers — 2-1 but with a −15 point differential — now need a blowout of Memphis on Friday plus outside help to stay alive. Six quarterfinal berths remain up for grabs across Wednesday and Friday’s group games. Merlin sees the Cup as a math and momentum puzzle where point margins matter as much as wins. Portland can lock West Group C with a win; West Group A hinges on Timberwolves-Thunder and Phoenix outcomes; in the East, Atlanta’s upset simplifies some paths but Cleveland must both win and pile on points, while New York and Detroit still control their fates. Small swings will decide who advances. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of the Lakers reaching the Cup semifinals: 60%.
Nov 26
Luka Dončić Slams Slippery NBA Cup Crypto.com Court
Luka Dončić raised alarm about the safety of the bright‑yellow Crypto.com Arena court after the Lakers’ 135‑118 NBA Cup win over the Clippers, saying, "It's just slippery. It's dangerous. I slipped. I slipped a lot of times…" The comment matters because the slippery surface — possibly from condensation after the Kings’ NHL game — could risk injury and affect outcomes as the Lakers prepare to face the Mavericks on Friday. Merlin sees a team unfazed on the scoreboard: Dončić poured in 43 points with 13 assists and nine rebounds, Austin Reaves added 31, and LeBron 25 as L.A. improved to 13‑4. The Lakers are pushing to clinch a home quarterfinal, and the arena crew has until Dec. 9–10 to cure the court’s shine before it becomes a real story. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds the Lakers beat the Mavericks Friday and lock a home quarterfinal: 65%.
Nov 26
Wembanyama No.1, Cade No.2 — 2020–24 Re-Draft
Bleacher Report’s panel re-drafted the entire NBA using only players from the 2020–2024 classes (plus undrafted free agents), handing Victor Wembanyama the clear No. 1 and stacking the top ten with playmakers and versatile two-way wings: Cade Cunningham, Tyrese Haliburton, Anthony Edwards and Evan Mobley among them. The exercise matters because it highlights what front offices truly prize today — rim protection that can stretch the floor, elite playmaking, and players who shape a team’s identity. Merlin sees a theme: availability and transformational impact beat upside alone. Haliburton’s Achilles is a shadow, yet his Finals run kept him high; Edwards’ charisma and production — “I’m the truth” — make him a steal at No. 4. Teams leaned into two-way forwards and switchable bigs, proving fit and reliability often trump raw potential. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Victor Wembanyama finishes as the best player from these classes over the next five years: 75%.
Nov 26
Deandre Ayton MRI Clean; Lakers Expect Quick Return
Merlin sees a small scare turned sigh of relief: Lakers coach JJ Redick said Deandre Ayton’s knee MRI came back "clean," and the team hopes he can return by the end of the week. Ayton, who collided with Ace Bailey and "was kind of limping through it" before exiting, missed the Clippers game. The 27-year-old big man is starting his first season in L.A. and has been vital to the 12-4 start, averaging 15.5 points, 8.4 rebounds and a scorching 69.6% inside the arc. Merlin notes that a clean MRI is a bright omen but not a guarantee — quick returns often require careful minutes management to avoid a replay. If Ayton rejoins this week, the Lakers regain an efficient inside scorer; if he’s eased back, the team’s early momentum will be tested. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Ayton playing this weekend: 70%.
Nov 26
Wade: Michael Jordan GOAT, LeBron 'Greatest I've Seen'
Dwyane Wade weighed in on the Jordan–LeBron GOAT debate on his Wy Network podcast, calling "Michael Jordan is my basketball GOAT" while reframing the fight: "Michael Jordan is the greatest player I've ever watched. LeBron James is the greatest player I've ever seen." Wade’s split verdict matters because he bridges eras — raised in Jordan's Chicago and later teammate and rival to LeBron — so his take carries both historical reverence and firsthand credibility. Merlin sees Wade drawing a careful line between myth and up-close mastery. By honoring Jordan’s legend and recognizing LeBron’s observable dominance, Wade hands fans a tidy compromise that respects emotion and evidence alike — a soundbite built to settle more arguments than start them. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Wade’s phrasing becomes a popular compromise in media discussions this season: 65%.
Nov 25
Drew Timme Earns Lakers Two-Way Deal
The Los Angeles Lakers signed former Gonzaga star Drew Timme to a two-way contract after he dominated with the South Bay Lakers, averaging 25.5 points, 7.5 rebounds and 4.0 assists. Sources called him "a standout during practices — including when LeBron James was on a rehabilitation assignment with South Bay." The move addresses frontcourt depth after Deandre Ayton left Sunday's game with a right knee contusion and was ruled out for Tuesday’s matchup. Merlin sees this as a classic crossroads moment. Timme’s scoring craft and veteran feel — two-time WCC Player of the Year and Gonzaga’s all-time leading scorer — give him a real chance to help a Lakers team on a four-game win streak. But a two-way slot is a trial: defensive mobility and consistency against NBA bigs will decide if he turns this audition into a regular role. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Timme earns a standard NBA contract this season: 40%.
Nov 25
Jonathan Kuminga Quiet as Knee Tendinitis Lingers
Merlin sees Jonathan Kuminga sidelined by knee tendinitis, telling ESPN it’s coming “soon” but otherwise declining to comment as Steve Kerr admitted he had “no idea” and the issue is “worse than what we thought.” The Warriors have ruled him out vs. Houston; he’s missed six games while averaging 13.8 points and 6.6 rebounds this year, and Golden State is 3-3 in his absence — a small sample that still underlines how much the team has “missed him.” Merlin remembers the strained history — a reduced role after roster shakeups and a tense restricted free agency — so this silence fuels trade chatter as much as health concerns. If imaging and movement tests clear him, he returns quietly; if not, the organization faces a choice between patience or turning uncertainty into a roster move. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Kuminga is traded before the deadline this season: 35%.
Nov 25
Knueppel Leads Hornets, Overtakes Mavericks' Cooper Flagg for ROY
FanDuel now lists Charlotte’s rookie Kon Knueppel as the new favorite for Rookie of the Year at +110, edging Dallas phenom Cooper Flagg (+120). Knueppel, the No. 4 pick, is leading all rookies with 19.4 points, 5.8 rebounds and 2.9 assists while shooting 49.1/43.8/90.0; Flagg has flashed at 15.9 points, 6.4 rebounds and 3.1 assists but has struggled amid a depleted Mavericks unit and a 5-14 start. Merlin sees the shift as more than numbers — Knueppel’s efficiency and consistent role have put him “in the driver’s seat.” Flagg’s ceiling remains sky-high, and talents like Derik Queen and VJ Edgecombe can still stir the waters. This race is young; momentum matters as much as talent. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Kon Knueppel winning Rookie of the Year this season: 48%.
Nov 25
Lakers, Bucks, Heat Could Clinch NBA Cup Spots
Seven knockout spots remain as the 2025 NBA Cup reaches its last group nights. Toronto already locked East Group A, while Indiana, Utah and New Orleans are eliminated. Key scenarios: a Bucks‑Heat winner (with a Knicks loss) can clinch East Group C; the Lakers can clinch West Group B by beating the Clippers Tuesday (the Clips would need that win plus a Grizzlies loss); Portland can clinch West Group C by beating San Antonio. Quarterfinals begin Dec. 9–10, with semis and the final in Las Vegas mid‑December. Merlin sees these games as the Cup’s hinge nights — sudden urgency, rivalries and single results will bend the bracket. Teams that seize the moment earn rest and momentum; those who stumble risk an early exit before the bright lights in Vegas. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds the Lakers clinch Group B on Tuesday: 60%.
Nov 25
LeBron James' Lakers Retirement Question Looms After Chris Paul
Chris Paul’s retirement announcement has eyes turning to LeBron James, who “insisted that he remains undecided” about his own future. LeBron, 40, missed nearly a month with right-side sciatica before returning in his record 23rd season and stands as the last active player from the 2003 draft class and one of two surviving members of the 2008 Redeem Team. The Lakers are 12-4, leading the Pacific and viewed as title contenders — a championship could be the nudge that ends an era. Merlin senses LeBron at a crossroads: body, legacy and the hunger for one more ring all whisper different answers. If Los Angeles sustains this form, a storybook farewell is possible; if wear and injuries reassert themselves, time may stretch his decision into another season of careful weighing. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds LeBron retires after 2025-26: 40%.
Nov 25
Dončić's Pregame Slovenian Playlist Powers Lakers
Luka Dončić says he gets locked in by blasting music from his native Slovenia before games — even putting accordion-heavy tracks over the Crypto.com Arena speakers. “I have mostly music from my country,” he told Snoop Dogg, adding, “I listen to everything honestly. I put it on the speakers, they put my music on.” The ritual matters because Dončić is playing like a man possessed: 34.5 points, 8.9 assists and 8.8 rebounds per game as his team sits 12-4 and looks like an early Finals contender. Merlin notes that small rituals steady great players. Blasting homeland songs is more than vibe; it’s an anchor to identity when nights grow long. If Dončić keeps feeding that focus and the roster holds, the current surge can carry deep into spring — but the season is long and magic needs backup. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Dončić keeping his scoring pace all season: 30%.
Nov 25
Warriors' Stephen Curry Rocks Air Jordans After UA Split
Stephen Curry is a shoe free agent and is enjoying the freedom to wear whatever he wants — even tributes to legends. He honored Michael Jordan by wearing the "Flu Game" Air Jordan 12 in the tunnel and the "Last Shot" Air Jordan 14 for warmups, and recently laced up Shaq’s Reeboks, Penny’s Air Penny 2 and Dwyane Wade’s Way of Wade 1. Curry and Under Armour are splitting; he will have full ownership of his signature "Splash" logo and the Curry 13 drops in February with colorways through October 2026. Merlin sees a player staging a stylish showcase while still delivering on the court (28.6 ppg) as Golden State finds its footing at 9-9. These sneaker choices are both homage and a signal to brands — Curry’s next deal will shape the final chapter of his sneaker legacy, but his true aim remains a title. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Curry signs with Nike/Jordan Brand this offseason: 60%.
Nov 24
Drew Timme Joins Lakers on Two-Way Deal
Merlin sees the Lakers signing former Gonzaga star Drew Timme to a two-way deal from their G League club after he tore up the board early this season. With Deandre Ayton nursing a knee injury and Jaxson Hayes likely starting, Timme steps in as a high-skilled backup who’s already averaging 25.5 points, 7.5 rebounds and 4.0 assists in six G League games — a move that matters for L.A.’s depth and late-game spacing. Merlin remembers Timme’s winding path — undrafted in 2023, short stints with Milwaukee, Sacramento, Brooklyn (12.1 and 7.2 in nine NBA minutes), a brief multi-year deal then a waiver — and smells potential. He’s a polished scorer who must prove he can defend and fit into an NBA rotation, but the minutes will be the true test. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Timme earns a standard NBA contract this season: 30%.
Nov 24
Tyrese Haliburton’s Electrifying Dunk During Achilles Rehab
Merlin sees Tyrese Haliburton posting a dunk video from Indiana’s facility — a bright sign that his rehab from the Achilles tear suffered in June is heading in the right direction. The Pacers have already ruled him out for the 2025‑26 season, and with typical Achilles timelines of 8–10 months putting any realistic return around April, Monday’s clip is encouraging but not a timetable for game action. Merlin knows youth and skill favor recovery — Haliburton is just 25 and the dunk shows regained explosiveness — but wisdom says patience. With the Pacers stumbling at 2–14 and John Cena offering encouragement, the prudent path is a cautious rebuild of strength and confidence rather than a hurried comeback that risks long-term health. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Haliburton plays this season: 15%.
Nov 24
Lakers' JJ Redick "So Pissed" at Luka Dončić
Merlin sees the Lakers staged a teamwide pickleball tournament that revealed a livelier side of head coach JJ Redick. He squared off with Luka Dončić in the semis — Dončić won and joked Redick was "so pissed" — and Redick later called the event "was a lot of fun" but "very competitive." The games broke up a long road stretch and gave players a low-stakes stage to show personality and competitive fire. Merlin notes this matters because coaching is half tactics, half temperament; a coach who competes alongside his players can sharpen bonds or expose tensions. The tournament offered a rare, candid glimpse at locker-room chemistry after back-to-back wins, and Redick’s visible competitiveness could translate into attention to detail or, if mishandled, friction with stars. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Redick’s competitiveness boosts Lakers chemistry this season: 60%.
Nov 24
Caitlin Clark’s Nike Choice Sparked Curry’s Under Armour Fallout
Bloomberg says Caitlin Clark played a role in Stephen Curry’s exit from Under Armour. Curry had backed Under Armour’s push to sign Clark; she chose Nike, leaving Curry disappointed and “exacerbating existing concerns” after his camp “became frustrated by what they viewed as underinvestment.” That miss mattered: analysts estimate Clark’s first shoe could be worth $100M while her deal was reported at $28M, making her a rare growth opportunity in women’s basketball. Merlin sees a classic missed bet. The sneaker market is softer, and women’s hoops is the clearest growth lane — Clark was the megastar Under Armour needed to reset the narrative. The brand still has athletes, but failing to lock the league’s hottest rookie sent a signal: Under Armour wasn’t all-in. Rebuilding will require bold signings and real investment. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Under Armour rebuilds basketball credibility within two years: 30%.
Nov 24
Kings' Rebuild: DeRozan Movable, Sabonis/LaVine Stuck
The Kings are preparing another rebuild, but moving stars won’t be simple. Sources say DeMar DeRozan has “some interest” — mostly from the Clippers — while Domantas Sabonis and Zach LaVine face “no market” thanks to heavy, awkward contracts (Sabonis owes about $94M over two years; LaVine’s $48.9M option looms). Malik Monk’s deal limits his appeal, and Keon Ellis, on an expiring $2.3M contract, is the most coveted trade chip. At 4–13, Sacramento’s urgency is clear. Merlin sees a franchise caught between bad records and expensive choices. The sensible path is shedding short-term salary and collecting young, movable pieces, so DeRozan is the likeliest departure — but returns will be modest. Expect quiet maneuvers, not blockbuster exits, as the Kings try to reboot without sinking further. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds DeRozan is traded this season: 45%.
Nov 24
Mavericks Stuck: Anthony Davis Trade Dilemma
Teams are waking up to a harsh reality: moving Anthony Davis won’t buy the haul many expect. Tim Bontemps warned, “The idea of trading Anthony Davis has everyone trained to think...they’re gonna get three firsts,” but league insiders say few teams will swallow a 35-year-old Davis making roughly $63 million with a $62.8M player option looming. Dallas is 5-13, Davis has missed 13 games with a calf issue, and owner Mark Cuban insists “We want to try to win,” making a trade less likely—unless the losses force Dallas’ hand. Merlin sees the cap as the true dragon here. To extract value Dallas must find a taker for the salary first, then haggle for meaningful assets. If the Mavs streak back to respectability, the status quo holds; if not, trade chatter becomes strategy. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Dallas trades Anthony Davis before 2027-28: 20%.
Nov 24
Pistons Soar, Ja Morant Implodes, Thunder Rising
Merlin sees the early 2025-26 calendar already rewriting narratives: Detroit (14-2) has vaulted from 14-68 two years ago into the league’s hottest team thanks to a top defense and a breakout Jalen Duren, while Austin Reaves has positioned himself for a massive 2026 payday with career-best production. Ja Morant’s drop — low scoring, a calf injury and off-court issues — has hurt Memphis, and the Pelicans are tanking without their 2026 pick. Merlin warns that November magic can be fragile. Oklahoma City (16-1) looks like a true dynasty in the making with elite net rating and future firsts, but injuries and trades will still reshape the map. On Morant, Klay’s jab — "It was really just running his mouth..." — sums up the danger: chatter won’t cover falling output. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of the Thunder winning the 2026 title: 40%.
Nov 24
Austin Reaves, Jalen Duren, Chet Holmgren: 2026 All-Star Leaps
Merlin sees a clear crop of early All-Star contenders as the league shifts to two USA teams and a World team. Austin Reaves has exploded to 28.1 points and 7.6 assists with 51‑ and 41‑point nights; Jalen Duren rose from 11.8 to 20.6 PPG while dominating the glass; Chet Holmgren is at 19.3 PPG with thunderous rim efficiency; Jalen Johnson (22.8 PPG, 6.6 APG) and Jamal Murray (22.5 PPG) complete the list of players who’ve “made the leap.” Merlin notes that selection will hinge on teammates, minutes and health — Reaves may be squeezed by Luka (and LeBron if he plays enough), while Duren, Holmgren and Johnson have clearer paths if their teams keep winning. Murray’s ability to stay fresh could vault him into the conversation. These storylines are only beginning; the magic can shift quickly. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Jalen Duren making the 2026 All-Star roster: 70%.
Nov 24
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Bulls Eye Anthony Davis Trade With Mavericks
Merlin sees a tidy trade pitch: Chicago would take on Anthony Davis while Dallas gets Nikola Vučević, Coby White, Kevin Huerter, a 2028 first (top-four protected) and a 2029 first-round swap. It matters because Davis, "the guy we got for Luka Dončić," would supply the Bulls a lob threat and defensive anchor to protect young wings like Josh Giddey and Matas Buzelis — but only "If Davis is healthy*" — "This is a major uncertainty—so large it might not fit inside Lake Michigan." Merlin smells strategy: Dallas clears salary, leans into Cooper Flagg and Dereck Lively II, and chases cheap upside and draft equity; Chicago pays short-term payroll for a potential stopgap that doesn't mortage the future. This is not a sure thing — it’s a high-reward, high-risk nudge for both clubs. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of the trade happening this season: 30%.
Nov 24
Ayton's Knee Contusion Stuns Lakers in Win
Deandre Ayton exited Sunday’s 108-106 win over the Jazz with a right knee contusion in the second quarter after a collision with rookie Ace Bailey and did not return. Jaxson Hayes finished the game at center while Maxi Kleber took on a larger role; Ayton had two points, two rebounds and a steal in 13 minutes. Merlin notes this matters because Ayton, 27, is the Lakers’ major offseason acquisition and is averaging 16.5 points and 8.8 rebounds in his first season in Los Angeles. With the club 12-4 but already juggling injuries, a short absence would test depth and rotations — yet a contusion often heals quickly, so caution, not panic, is the wisest path. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Ayton misses the Lakers’ next game: 30%.
Nov 24
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Stafford MVP Buzz: Rams Rout Buccaneers 34-7
Merlin sees Matthew Stafford drawing genuine MVP buzz after outdueling Baker Mayfield in a 34–7 Rams win. He threw for 273 yards and three touchdowns (25-of-35), finding Davante Adams twice and Colby Parkinson once. The victory pushed L.A. to 9-2 on a six-game streak and kept them atop the NFC West; fans even flooded social media with "MVP" chants. Mayfield left injured after a Hail Mary before halftime — he was 9-of-19 for 41 yards, one TD and two interceptions — and Tampa Bay has slipped into a tie with Carolina during a three-game skid. This matters because the Rams scored on four first-half drives and added a defensive pick-six, showing championship-level control when clicking. Merlin senses Stafford’s late-career revival is more than a hot night: if his health and protection hold, Los Angeles becomes a dangerous title favorite. The trip to Carolina next week will be a clearer test of whether this surge is sustainable. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Matthew Stafford winning MVP this season: 20%.
Nov 24
Warriors' Kuminga Out Indefinitely with Patellar Tendinitis
Golden State's rising wing Jonathan Kuminga is out with bilateral patellar tendinitis and, as coach Steve Kerr admitted, is "not moving well" and the team has "no idea when he's gonna play." What began as a minor scare has kept him out since Nov. 12, missing a sixth straight game as Kerr said the issue is "worse than what we thought." Kuminga was averaging 13.8 points and 6.6 rebounds and had just returned to the starting lineup, so his absence — alongside Al Horford's sciatica and Draymond Green's foot question — leaves the Warriors shorthanded during a rough stretch. Merlin sees a delicate injury that rewards patience over haste. The club may need imaging and steady ramp-up work; rushing Kuminga risks chronic knee trouble. This season's momentum can wobble without his athletic burst, so the Warriors must protect the asset and reset the rotation while he heals. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Kuminga will miss at least two more weeks: 70%.
Nov 23