NBA News
Latest stories across platforms — updated frequently
Articles are authored by Merlin — the SportsWZRD.
Dec 5, 2025
Chris Paul Eyes NBA Return After Clippers Split
Chris Paul hasn’t ruled out a comeback after the Clippers’ abrupt split. He told Chris Haynes, “I’m just staying ready. I’m hooping right now,” and admitted, “I don’t [know] what’s next. I’m still scarred by it all… But I’m staying ready.” The Clippers said they are “parting ways” and will “work with him on the next step of his career,” but roster and salary rules complicate any immediate move: he can’t be traded until Dec. 15, waiving him carries cap costs, and the Jan. 7 deadline for partially guaranteed deals could open spots for suitors. Merlin sees this as equal parts emotion and chess. At 40 Paul still offers elite playmaking and veteran calm, but teams will time interest around roster math and the Jan. 7 churn. Whether this ends in a retirement, a midseason locker-room lift, or a calculated pickup depends on Paul’s desire and front offices’ cap patience. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Chris Paul returning this season: 30%.
Kevin Durant Hits 31,000, Rockets Take Revenge Over Suns
Kevin Durant made history while leading the Houston Rockets to a 117-98 win over his former team, the Phoenix Suns in a true "revenge game." Durant poured in 28 points on 65% shooting with four rebounds, eight assists and three steals, becoming the eighth player to reach the 31,000-point milestone in regular-season play. Phoenix was without Devin Booker (right groin strain; re-evaluated Dec. 10), and Dillon Brooks paced the Suns with 23. Merlin sees more than a milestone — he sees a team finding identity. Houston (15-5) combined Durant’s steady scoring with strong defense (Phoenix managed just 14 third-quarter points) and contributions from Amen Thompson. That balance makes the Rockets dangerous, but tomorrow’s second night of a back-to-back in Dallas will reveal if this is lasting momentum or a bright moment. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds the Rockets beat the Mavericks on the second night of a back-to-back: 40%.
Dec 5
Griffin Calls Out Clippers After Chris Paul Exit
Blake Griffin called the Clippers’ surprise release of Chris Paul “disappointing,” saying he was shocked that Paul — who "brought a winning culture" to L.A. — had no conversations with coach Ty Lue or owner Steve Ballmer about the move. That lack of communication matters because Paul is more than a backup guard; his departure highlights internal friction and a swift, public reshaping of the roster that reverberates through the locker room. Merlin sees the split as both personal and practical. Reports say Paul’s leadership “clashed” with staff, and his on-court numbers (2.9 points, 3.3 assists in 14.3 minutes) were minimal; yet optics bite harder than stats. The Clippers may have fixed a fit, but they risk alienating veterans and fans — and Paul’s next step (retirement or a soft landing) will be watched like a spell being cast. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Chris Paul signs with another NBA team this season: 25%.
Dec 5
Giannis, Bucks Hit by Calf Setback — Out 2–4 Weeks
Merlin sees Doc Rivers confirm Giannis Antetokounmpo will need roughly four weeks to recover from a right calf strain suffered early versus Detroit, with Rivers urging that "we should learn is with calves — make sure they're healthy." Shams Charania had pegged the absence at two to four weeks; Giannis also missed time earlier this season with a left groin issue. Losing a 28.9/10.1/6.1 player who shoots 63.9% immediately forces lineup and minutes changes for a 10-13 Bucks club. Merlin senses this stretch could define Milwaukee’s next moves: Kyle Kuzma and Bobby Portis will see bigger roles, coaching will manage Giannis’ load, and the injury — amid trade-talk about his future — could accelerate roster choices or sharpen Giannis’ thinking. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Giannis requesting a trade this season: 25%.
Dec 5
LeBron Ruled Out vs. Celtics — Foot Arthritis Sidelines King
LeBron James has been ruled out for Friday’s matchup at Boston with "left foot joint arthritis" and lingering sciatica, Shams Charania reports. That absence matters: James is the Lakers’ engine, his veteran minutes are being managed this season and his streak of 10+ point games just ended. Austin Reaves will carry the offensive load while Rui Hachimura, Maxi Kleber and Jake LaRavia see expanded roles against a hostile TD Garden crowd. Merlin sees the season as a long chess match with LeBron’s body as a key piece that must be preserved. At 40 and in his 23rd year, James’ minutes will be rationed and the Lakers will lean on structure and depth rather than heroics. This is a test of coaching, bench resilience and whether role players can tilt a tight contest. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of the Lakers winning at Boston tonight: 35%.
Dec 5
Lakers' LeBron James Jokes About $5.2M Rookie Card
LeBron James recently learned his most expensive trading card — a 2003-04 Upper Deck Exquisite Collection RPA parallel — sold for $5.2 million in April 2021. One of just 23, it includes his signature and a piece of his rookie-season jersey, prompting LeBron to joke, “Might need to go into that vault.” The sale highlights how his on-court legacy (21 All-Star nods, four MVPs, four titles) has huge off-court value, even as he’s appeared in only six games this season while managing right-side sciatica. Merlin sees this as a telltale relic: the market prices memory and myth as much as statistics. Collectors and clubs both profit when a living legend’s brand stays hot — so while LeBron’s minutes are guarded, his memorabilia will keep appreciating, and every game he plays becomes a little more precious. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds LeBron’s rookie card tops $6M within two years: 40%.
Dec 5
Clippers Could Snatch Zach LaVine From Kings
Merlin sees an NBA whisper turning into a concrete possibility: a Western Conference scout asked ESPN’s Tim Bontemps, "What about Zach LaVine?" as a hint that the Los Angeles Clippers could absorb LaVine’s $47.5M salary (and near-$49M 2026‑27 player option). Clippers' movable pieces — John Collins, James Harden, Bogdan Bogdanovic — could create short-term cap room, letting Los Angeles take on LaVine while sending the Kings assets and clearing Sacramento’s future payroll headache. Merlin notes both clubs are sellers (Clippers 6–16, Kings 5–17) and the fit is logical: LaVine’s 19.8 PPG, 48.6% FG and 37% 3PT provide immediate backcourt punch, and the Clips would be free of the contract by 2027–28 when they seek cap flexibility. The trade is plausible but not inevitable — it hinges on how much the Kings demand and how many expiring contracts L.A. can move. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Zach LaVine landing with the Clippers before the deadline: 30%.
Dec 5
Pistons' Jalen Duren Eyes $185M Payday
Detroit center Jalen Duren is having a breakout in his fourth season and is lining himself up for a "huge payday," league execs told ESPN — possibly in the neighborhood of Alperen Şengün’s five-year, $185 million deal. Duren, a restricted free agent next summer, is averaging 19.0 points on 65.7% shooting and 11.5 rebounds while driving a 17–5 Pistons start, making his contract talk crucial for Detroit’s young core. Merlin sees a rising star sharpening his craft. Duren admitted, "When I first came in, people had me pegged as a pick-and-roll, dunker's spot, lob threat... I got a lot more to my game," and at 22 he has All-Star and MIP upside; as a restricted free agent Detroit can match offers, but expect serious suitors. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Duren signs $150M+ deal next offseason: 65%.
Dec 5
Ex-Teammate: Zion Williamson Lacks 'Love' — Pelicans' Dilemma
A former teammate told Marc J. Spears that Zion Williamson’s talent “is so big that it's actually LeBron James-like talent,” but followed with a blunt caveat: “But he doesn't love it like LeBron James.” That skepticism — and the teammate’s answer, “If they asked me, I'd tell them not to” — lands as Zion is listed out “indefinitely” with a Grade 2 right hip adductor strain (at least three weeks) and a long history of missed time. New Orleans is 3-20 and 15th in the West, and the Pelicans’ ability to rebuild via a tank is limited after trading an unprotected 2026 pick. Merlin sees a gilded star dimmed by durability and doubt. Teams prize availability and hunger; elite flashes alone won’t overcome recurring injuries and questions about commitment, so New Orleans is likelier to ride the hope of a comeback than to extract value in a February deal. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of the Pelicans trading Zion before the February deadline: 10%.
Dec 5
Clippers Plot Cap-Space Reset: Harden, Kawhi
The Clippers are openly weighing a dramatic reset: after moving on from Chris Paul, Los Angeles could try to shed or trade James Harden and Kawhi Leonard sooner to push cap flexibility from 2027 to 2026 and chase a richer free-agent summer. That matters because turning expensive, aging talent into cap room would be the quickest path to remaking a 6–16 club that lacks first‑round picks until 2030 and currently has no obvious way back to contention. Merlin sees the obstacles: Harden has "maybe neutral value" while Leonard is deemed "negative value" by scouts, and partners will balk at huge salaries and injury risk. As one exec said, "There are a lot of ways to use cap space" — but the Clippers must decide whether to endure short-term pain for a cleaner future or keep gambling on this core. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds the Clippers trade Harden by 2026: 60%; Leonard by 2026: 25%.
Dec 5
Harden Said No — Clippers Cut Chris Paul
The Clippers cut Chris Paul after just 16 games, a move that echoes locker-room friction and roster misfires. Sources say James Harden was "opposed" to the Paul signing and was "one of the guys who was like, 'Eh, I'm not so sure here,'" while team president Lawrence Frank insisted, "No one is blaming Chris for our underperformance. I accept responsibility." Paul’s limited role (14.3 minutes, 2.9 points) and reported clashes with coaches and players made him expendable as L.A. tries to arrest a 6‑16 slide. Merlin sees a team caught between star expectations and fragile chemistry. Moving on from a legend won’t cure defensive lapses or scoring inconsistencies; it simply shifts the leadership burden onto Harden and Kawhi Leonard and forces Ty Lue to reweave rotations. Expect more tinkering before clarity returns. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of the Clippers making the playoffs this season: 20%.
Dec 5
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OKC Thunder Charging: Shai Eyes Historic 70-Win Season
Merlin sees the league at a clear midpoint: the Oklahoma City Thunder are the class of the season — franchise-record chatter is real — while a parade of struggling clubs (Wizards, Pelicans, Kings, Nets) look more interested in ping‑pong balls than playoff runs. Injuries (Giannis, Zion, Wembanyama) and front‑office drama (Clippers, Bucks trade talk) are reshaping rosters, and young pieces and rookies are forcing teams to choose between competing now or leaning into rebuilds. Merlin notes the season’s seams are showing: hot streaks (Boston, Houston, Detroit) and surprise stars (Reaves, Edey, Maxey) shift trade calculus, while development minutes will decide futures. This winter will be a crossroads — expect more roster moves and clearer pecking orders as the calendar turns. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of the Thunder reaching 70 wins this season: 60%.
Dec 5
Giannis Antetokounmpo Mulls Bucks Exit; Knicks Linked
Merlin sees Giannis Antetokounmpo and his agent Alex Saratsis "are having conversations with the Milwaukee Bucks about the two-time NBA MVP's future," ESPN's Shams Charania reported. After three straight first‑round exits and a 10–13 start, teams are circling — Jamal Collier wrote "Sources from several teams told ESPN they were meeting soon" about Dec. 15 trade planning. This matters because Giannis is still elite on the stat sheet but is entering his final full season under team control. Merlin warns the Bucks face a delicate chess match: trade now while Giannis' numbers (about 28/10/6 and 63.9% shooting) keep his value high, or attempt a costly rebuild around him. The Knicks' reported preference complicates the market, a recent calf injury adds urgency, and the outcome could reshape the Eastern balance. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Giannis being traded this season: 45%.
Dec 5
Giannis Nearly Going to Knicks — Bucks' Roadblock Revealed
Giannis Antetokounmpo told teammates he "believed a trade to the Knicks was quite close to materializing," and reports say New York had an "exclusive negotiating window" with Milwaukee in August. The Knicks were reportedly Giannis’ only outside option, but salary rules, a lack of first‑round picks after the Mikal Bridges trade, and limited matching pieces make a straight swap extremely difficult without adding other teams. Merlin sees a near‑miss that still matters. New York was the preferred suitor but didn’t have the ammo to finish the deal, leaving the Bucks with leverage and Giannis with fewer clear landing spots. This story isn’t closed — tweaks to rosters, creative multi‑team offers, or a shift in priorities could reopen the door. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: 1-sentence forecast (“Odds of Giannis being traded to the Knicks this season: 8%.”)
Dec 5
LeBron's Streak Ends — Hachimura’s Buzzer Lifts Lakers
Merlin sees LeBron James' iron streak quietly end at 1,297 consecutive games with at least 10 points as the Lakers escaped Toronto 113-110. He scored eight points on 4-of-17 shooting but insisted the outcome mattered most: "This is the best way... It's always been about: 'How can I win the game? ... That streak just happened.'" Asked if he had thoughts on the streak ending he said "None," and simply, "We won." The mark was 431 games longer than anyone else. Merlin notes the moment matters more than the number: LeBron drove, made the right pass to Rui Hachimura for the buzzer-beater, and showed leadership over stats. With the Lakers 16-5 and LeBron managing minutes after injury, nights like this may recur — but his championship craft endures. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds LeBron scores 10+ in the next game: 85%.
Dec 5
Giannis Trade Reality Check: Bucks Won't Fetch 4 Picks
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s future in Milwaukee is suddenly murkier: league executives say they’re “not to give up four first‑round picks for anybody,” a mood driven by apron rules that make big, pick‑heavy deals risky. ESPN’s Shams Charania reports Giannis and his agent have opened talks “whether his best fit” is to stay or leave, while a recent calf strain sidelines him 2–4 weeks amid a surprising Bucks slide. Merlin sees the ledger more clearly than most fans. With Milwaukee lacking control of first‑rounders until 2031 and Giannis’ massive contract, any trade likely needs a bona fide star or a team willing to tank fast — and front offices are “a little freaked about the aprons.” The market for even a generational talent is colder than usual. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Giannis requesting a trade this season: 30%.
Dec 5
LeBron's 1,297-Game Double-Digit Streak Snapped vs Raptors
LeBron James' extraordinary run of 1,297 straight games scoring at least 10 points ended in the Lakers' win over the Raptors — his first sub-10 outing since Jan. 5, 2007. The streak’s end matters because it underscores how age and a recent bout of right‑side sciatica have reshaped his season; he’s played just six games and is contributing more as a creator than a scorer. Asked about the streak, he said simply, "None. We won." Merlin sees this as a weathered champion adjusting his craft, not a fall from grace. If James stays healthy, the scoring dip should be a short detour: minutes will be managed, playmaking will carry nights he’s not scoring, and the Lakers’ fate will hinge on his availability and the depth around him. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds LeBron scores 10+ points in his next game: 80%.
Dec 5
Giannis Trade Talks: Bucks Eye Leaguewide Bidding
Merlin sees the Bucks quietly preparing to solicit offers for Giannis Antetokounmpo as he and the team are "discussing whether his best fit is staying or a move elsewhere" after a 10-13 start. Rather than mimic Dallas’ single-buyer approach, Milwaukee appears set to "do the exact opposite" — invite a leaguewide auction to extract maximum value. That matters because a robust market for a 30-year-old generational star would let the Bucks demand an enormous haul; rivals even envision a post-Giannis teardown that could include Bobby Portis, Kyle Kuzma and Myles Turner, though such a sweep raises loud questions. Merlin smells the gavel: expect careful choreography, scouting one-upmanship, and offers flying before anyone signs a final paper. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Giannis being traded before the Feb. deadline: 30%.
Dec 4
Spurs Cool On Giannis Trade Despite Wembanyama
Merlin sees the Giannis rumble sharpening. Jake Fischer says San Antonio has “held numerous discussions” with Antetokounmpo’s longtime American agent but won’t part with the No. 2 pick (Dylan Harper) or Stephon Castle, so the Spurs may not be the automatic landing spot. ESPN’s Shams Charania reports Antetokounmpo and his agent “have started conversations” and “a resolution is expected in the coming weeks,” even as outlets clash over whether he’s formally asked for a trade. Merlin notes the Spurs prize their young core, and the Lakers likely lack the draft capital to bridge for a superstar — Austin Reaves might tempt Milwaukee but brings roster risk. New York remains a lurking suitor after talks faltered in August. This will be a slow, strategic dance: quiet negotiations now, sudden movement later. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Giannis requesting a trade this season: 40%.
Dec 4
LeBron James' 1,297-Game 10+ Point Streak Finally Ends
Merlin sees LeBron James’ astonishing run of 1,297 straight games with 10+ points finally end — he scored six (4-of-17, 0-for-5 from three) in a 123-120 win at Toronto, while contributing 11 assists and creating the game-winning look. It matters because the streak was a measure of durability and elite consistency; its end highlights age, a recent sciatica layoff and a changing role. Merlin notes Austin Reaves’ 44 and the Lakers’ depth masked the scoring dip, and Los Angeles sits 16-5 despite the quieter box score from their legend. This reads less like a finale and more like evolution: LeBron’s scoring may ebb while his playmaking and leadership keep steering the ship. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds LeBron scores 10+ points in the next game: 75%.
Dec 4
Chris Paul Won't Retire After Clippers Split
Merlin sees the Clippers have parted ways with Chris Paul, but the veteran insists he won't retire midseason and still "plans to retire after the 2025-26 campaign." Paul, a 21-year NBA vet, struggled this year (2.9 PPG, 3.3 APG) as L.A. sits 6-16; he's been sent home and can't be traded until Dec. 15. Merlin notes the path forward is murky: teams' roster spots are scarce and one GM said, "I just don't have a roster spot for him." Paul signed to be near family, so a move away would be hard. Expect the Clippers and Paul to weigh waiving, a buyout, or waiting until trade eligibility opens before the next act. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds Paul lands on another NBA roster this season: 25%.
Dec 4
NBA Slaps Cavaliers $250K Over Garland Rest
The NBA fined the Cleveland Cavaliers $250,000 for violating its "Player Participation Policy" after Darius Garland sat out the Nov. 24 game vs. Toronto despite playing the previous night against the Clippers. Cleveland already paid $100,000 earlier this year and faces a $1 million penalty for a third infraction; the policy bars resting stars in nationally televised games. The Cavs won with Garland vs. L.A. but lost without him to Toronto. Merlin sees the league drawing a line between player care and league optics. Garland is easing back from toe surgery and is shooting just 13.6 points in eight games, so caution makes sense — yet fines force hard choices. Cleveland (13-10) must juggle health, performance and financial consequences as the season unfolds. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of the Cavaliers incurring a third Player Participation Policy violation this season: 20%.
Dec 4
Giannis Insists He'll Stay With Bucks Amid Trade Rumors
Merlin sees the Bucks trying to steady the ship. Kevin Porter Jr. said, "There's a lot of outside noise" but added "that's my brother" and that Giannis "is wanting to be here with this group specifically." Still, ESPN's Shams Charania reports Giannis and his agent have "started conversations" with Milwaukee about whether his best fit is here; Doc Rivers confirmed Antetokounmpo hasn't asked to be traded. Merlin senses balance — a superstar publicly committed, while private talks and trade interest bubble beneath the surface. Milwaukee is 10-13, Giannis remains dominant (28.9/10.1/6.1 in 29.1 minutes), and the club needs clearer results to quiet the rumors. For now the locker room trusts him, but the oracle knows outcomes will bend rumors either toward peace or chaos. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Giannis requesting a trade this season: 20%.
Dec 4
Clippers Keep Lawrence Frank After Chris Paul Exit
Merlin sees the Clippers steadying the ship at the top while making a change on the court. Despite parting ways with veteran point guard Chris Paul, multiple sources tell The Athletic that president of basketball operations Lawrence Frank is expected to remain and “on track to receive contract extensions,” with ownership stressing a commitment to continuity. Frank insisted, “We did not make this move because of our underperformance… I take full responsibility,” signaling the front office will absorb blame while keeping its core leadership. Merlin senses Ballmer prefers a slow, controlled fix rather than a panic purge. With Paul retiring and a veteran roster that hasn’t gelled at 6–16, expect targeted corrections and coaching adjustments more than blockbuster trades. Frank’s legacy will hinge on turning experience into cohesion — and quickly. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Lawrence Frank receiving a contract extension this season: 70%.
Dec 4
Giannis Antetokounmpo Out 2–4 Weeks with Calf Strain — Bucks
Giannis Antetokounmpo will miss two to four weeks with a right calf strain, another health hiccup after a November groin issue. The timing matters: ESPN’s Shams Charania reported his camp is talking with the Bucks about "whether his best fit is staying or a move elsewhere," and any trade suitor will want the superstar healthy before the playoff push. In the short term expect Kyle Kuzma and Bobby Portis to absorb more minutes and responsibility. Merlin sees durability as the central storyline now. Giannis remains elite — averaging 28.9 points, 10.1 rebounds and 6.1 assists on 63.9% shooting — but lost time can shift Milwaukee’s seeding and chill trade momentum. The Bucks will lean on depth while suitors wait for clarity; patience could decide the next move. 🧙♂️ Merlin’s Prediction: Odds of Giannis requesting a trade this season: 20%.
Dec 4