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JJ Redick Loves Intensity Collin Sexton Is Bringing To Lakers
Lakers coach JJ Redick applauds Collin Sexton’s “insane” intensity after the guard’s 21‑point, defensively‑charged showing in a 103‑87 win over the Clippers. Redick highlights Sexton’s relentless pressure, off‑ball energy and willingness to attack the paint, saying it could solidify L.A.’s defensive identity despite needed work on spacing and shooting. The veteran notes Sexton’s focused demeanor, especially during a key defensive play on Cam Christie, and credits his competitive fire as a major boost for the team’s growth.
Why Sandro Mamukelashvili is a ‘Rare’ Offensive Player: JJ Redick
Former Raptors forward Sandro Mamukelashvili lands a four‑year, $52 million deal with the Los Angeles Lakers, and JJ Redick hails him as a "rare" offensive talent. Redick praises Mamukelashvili’s ability to create advantages—pick‑and‑pop against a five, strong rolls and touches, rapid decision‑making, and efficient shooting and finishing—calling him an "advantage creator, finisher, and connector." Coach Darko Rajaković notes his versatility at the 3, 4 or 5 spots and his dynamic open‑court play, confirming the Lakers targeted him early in free agency.
Jarred Vanderbilt on How He Can Make A Difference For Lakers
Veteran forward Jarred Vanderbilt says his rebounding grit and physical play can boost the Lakers’ struggling glass control. After missing the first four games, he debuted in the 103-87 win over the Clippers, boxing out, securing boards and pressuring the rim. Vanderbilt notes his energy fuels teammates like Quentin Grimes and Collin Sexton, while coach JJ Redick praises his defensive effort and pairing with Sandro Mamukelashvili, especially against players like Lopez. With Kevon Looney’s early-season dip, Vanderbilt eyes a steadier role in Redick’s rotation.
Giannis Antetokounmpo and Bam Adebayo Get First Heat Win
Giannis Antetokounmpo earns his first win in a Miami Heat uniform as the team snaps a 0‑4 start, beating the Atlanta Hawks 129‑117. Antetokounmpo tallies 24 points and 18 rebounds, setting a Heat record with 138 points in his first five games and marking his 118th 20‑point‑15‑rebound effort, the third‑most in NBA history. Bam Adebayo shatters the franchise rebounding record, passing Udonis Haslem with 5,794 career boards. Andrew Wiggins adds 18 points and Pelle Larsson contributes 17, while Miami shoots 53 percent and scores 70 points in the paint.
Nikola Jokic Coming For Russell Westbrook Triple-Doubles Record
Nikola Jokic moves within striking distance of Russell Westbrook’s all‑time triple‑double record, needing just nine more after logging his 200th career triple‑double (21 points, 13 rebounds, 10 assists) in a 104‑91 win over New Orleans on Oct. 30, 2026. Westbrook retired with 209 triples, after shattering Oscar Robertson’s mark in 2021. Jokic, the league’s active leader, posted 34 triple‑doubles last season and already has two in his first four games of 2026‑27, suggesting he could surpass Westbrook early in the campaign. Denver also saw Jamal Murray add 23 points and Aaron Gordon a double‑double as the Nuggets improve to 2‑2.
Ty Lue Calls Austin Reaves ‘Elite’ After Impressive Rise
Clippers coach Ty Lue hails Lakers guard Austin Reaves as an "elite" talent ahead of their Los Angeles rivalry game. Lue praised Reaves' versatility—3‑point shooting, finishing at the rim, playmaking, and drawing fouls—citing a recent stretch where he averaged 27 points on 64% shooting and 62% from deep. With Luka Doncic and Ziaire Williams sidelined, Reaves was expected to lead the offense but managed 16 points on 6‑of‑16 shooting with eight turnovers, though LA still earned its fourth win and second over the Clippers. Reaves recently secured a four‑year max extension and lauds the Lakers’ ego‑free locker room culture.
Timberwolves Provide Encouraging Update on Anthony Edwards
The Minnesota Timberwolves say superstar guard Anthony Edwards will fully recover after his upcoming right‑knee arthroscopic surgery, though a return date remains unclear. Edwards, who’s been averaging a league‑leading 33.3 points in the first four games—including a 47‑point explosion against Cleveland—underwent an MRI that uncovered new damage. Tim Connelly calls him “good as new” post‑procedure, while coach Chris Finch expects the team to fill the scoring void with LaMelo Ball, Ayo Dosunmu, Terrence Shannon Jr., and Bones Hyland. The franchise is prioritizing Edwards’ long‑term health over rushing him back.
Ernie Johnson Announces Emotional Exit From Inside the NBA
Ernie Johnson announces that the 2026-27 season will be his final year hosting "Inside the NBA," ending a three‑decade run that began in 1990. In a Wednesday video, the 70‑year‑old cited health concerns and a desire to spend more time with family, but stresses he isn’t retiring and will keep covering the NCAA men’s tournament for CBS/Turner. Colleague Charles Barkley delivered an emotional tribute on the show, and ESPN’s Jimmy Pitaro praised Johnson’s 20+ Sports Emmys and his role as the program’s heart. Johnson’s exit may foreshadow Charles Barkley’s own departure later this season.
Steph Curry Matches LeBron James With Historic 44-Point Night
Stephen Curry ties LeBron James for the most 40‑point games by a player 35 or older, logging his 15th such effort with 40 points in Golden State’s 119‑114 win over Minnesota on Oct. 29, 2026. He shoots 11‑of‑27 overall, 6‑of‑16 from three and a flawless 16‑of‑16 from the line. The performance, highlighted by a sprint‑long dive for a loose ball, sparks awe from rookie Yaxel Lendeborg and prompts coach Steve Kerr to frame the game as a learning moment. Jordan sits third with 12‑point‑plus outings.
Former Thunder Coach on Why James Harden Is Still Dominating
Former Thunder assistant‑turned‑Wizards head coach Brian Keefe explains why 18‑year veteran James Harden remains a top offensive force for the Cleveland Cavaliers. Keefe, who coached Harden in Oklahoma City and later in Brooklyn, credits Harden’s relentless work ethic—late‑night shooting sessions and daily diligence—and his high basketball IQ, which he’s displayed since entering the league in 2009. Those traits, Keefe says, underpin Harden’s MVP‑level play and justify the Cavaliers’ recent three‑year, $97 million deal, hoping his playmaking will elevate frontcourt stars Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen.
Bam Adebayo Fires Back at Critics After 0-4 Start
Bam Adebayo fires back at critics after the Miami Heat stumble to an 0-4 start, including a 113-109 loss to the Dallas Mavericks. Despite the blockbuster Giannis Antetokounmpo trade, Adebayo says he’s being unfairly scapegoated, noting his recent dip to 11.8 points, 7.3 rebounds and 3.5 assists while shooting just 16.7% from three. He finished with eight points on 3‑of‑10 shooting versus Dallas, a stark drop from his 20.1‑point, 10‑rebound average last season. Antetokounmpo backs him, stressing the whole roster is still adjusting. The Heat aim to snap the streak against the Atlanta Hawks on Wednesday.
JJ Redick on Luka Doncic Entering ‘Showman Mode’
Luka Doncic lights up Utah with a career‑high 52‑point night, adding 10 assists and eight rebounds in the Dallas Mavericks’ first 50‑point game of the season. After the performance, Lakers coach JJ Redick describes Doncic’s scoring burst as entering a “showman mode” – a flow state that turns the court into a stage. Redick and teammate Austin Reaves say the surge revived the Mavericks after a rough start, shifting momentum and boosting confidence. The article highlights how Doncic’s electrifying play energizes his team and captivates fans, underscoring his status as one of the league’s most dynamic scorers.
Anthony Edwards Worried Baby Mama Wasting Child Support on Gambling
Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards asks a court to place part of his $14,000‑a‑month child‑support into a trust, alleging ex‑partner Alexandria Desroches spent the money on DraftKings gambling in 2025. Court documents show Edwards claims she hid income from a second job and inflated child‑raising costs. Desroches admits low‑stakes bets, saying they total under $1,000 for the year, and disputes the allegations while also questioning Edwards’ involvement with their son Amir. No decision on the trust request has been issued.
Paul Pierce Says He’s ‘Drowning Financially’
Former Celtics star Paul Pierce claims he’s “drowning financially” despite earning over $195 million in his NBA career. Court documents reveal he stopped receiving his $119,000‑per‑month Fox Sports paycheck in August and now faces $28,000 in child support, $20,000 in spousal support, plus $48,000 in monthly living costs. Pierce still holds about $300,000 in cash and $3 million in property, but his September earnings dropped to roughly $23,000 from business ventures. He asks the court to deny ex‑partner Princes Santiago’s request for an extra $40,000 in legal fees and $10,000 for a forensic accountant amid an ongoing custody battle over their son, King Rafael.
Anthony Edwards Facing Extended Absence Due to Knee Surgery
Minnesota Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards faces an extended layoff after arthroscopic surgery on his right knee, slated for Thursday. The procedure, prompted by lingering issues dating back to last season’s playoffs, is expected to keep him out for more than two months, surpassing earlier two‑month estimates. Edwards, who averaged 33.3 points, 4.8 rebounds and 3.5 assists while shooting 40% from three in the opening four games, last posted a 47‑point effort against Cleveland despite a knee tweak. His absence forces LaMelo Ball into a larger offensive role and could see Ayo Dosunmu start. The Timberwolves are 3‑1 to start the season.
Jaylen Brown Camp Fires Back at Claims He Forced Celtics Exit
Jaylen Brown’s camp vehemently denies rumors that he forced his trade from Boston to Philadelphia. While NBC Sports Boston analyst Brian Scalabrine suggested Brown gave the Celtics an ultimatum and a list of demands, Brown’s representatives call the claim “10,000% a lie,” saying his only requests were input on his destination and equal treatment with Jayson Tatum after a failed Giannis Antetokounmpo deal. Tatum also dismisses any feud, and Brown replies with a tongue‑in‑cheek comment about “lamb chops and gravy.” The dispute highlights lingering speculation over the former champions’ split.
NBA Casualty Ward: Jalen Williams, Lauri Markkanen & More
The NBA’s early-season injury list swells as Oklahoma City Thunder forward Jalen Williams undergoes surgery for a fractured left fibula and dislocated ankle after a harrowing fall against the LA Clippers, likely sidelining him for the rest of the year. Thunder guard Cason Wallace also faces shoulder surgery for a torn labrum. The Utah Jazz lose both Lauri Markkanen (right wrist) and Jaren Jackson Jr. (right knee) in a loss to Memphis, ending their night early. On a brighter note, Orlando Magic guard Jalen Suggs escapes a serious knee tear, with scans showing only a mild bone bruise. The article details each player’s status and team impact.
Former Warriors Player Calls Out GM Over Roster: ‘Sh*t Job’
Former Warriors center DeMarcus Cousins blasts GM Mike Dunleavy Jr., calling his roster‑building a “sh*t job” after Golden State starts the 2026‑27 season 0‑3. Cousins argues the team’s “outdated, undersized” system fails to maximize Steph Curry’s remaining prime and questions why Dunleavy remains in charge. He praises the only bright spot—a promising performance from No. 11 pick Yaxel Lendeborg—but maintains the Warriors need a better supporting cast to give Curry another title run.
LeBron James Makes His Feelings on Playing Center Clear
LeBron James tells the Philadelphia 76ers he won’t stay at center, even after stepping in for an injured Joel Embiid during the 106‑93 loss to Detroit on Oct. 26, 2026. The 41‑year‑old posted 18 points, 5 assists and 2 rebounds in his first start at the five‑position since 2021‑22, but emphasized the Sixers have a long‑term answer at center. Coach Nick Nurse highlighted depth woes as Jabari Walker, Dominick Barlow and Tacko Fall sit out, while rookie Adem Bona posted 13 rebounds. Maxey and James both hope returning bigs will fix the team’s rebounding deficit.
JJ Redick Sees Turning Point for Lakers After Stunning Comeback
The Lakers erased an 18‑point first‑quarter hole to beat the Utah Jazz 132–123 on Oct. 26, 2026, marking their first road win. Luka Doncic exploded for 52 points, 10 assists and eight rebounds, while Austin Reaves added 29 (15 in Q2). Coach JJ Redick says the comeback provides a crucial reference point for the new‑look roster’s resilience and development. Contributions from Collin Sexton, Matisse Thybulle, Ziaire Williams and Sandro Mamukelashvili capped the turnaround, giving Redick confidence the performance can serve as a foundation for the season.
Walker Kessler Opens Up on Emotional Return to Utah
Walker Kessler admits emotions hampered his Utah Jazz return, as the Los Angeles Lakers still clinched a 132-123 win on Oct. 26, 2026. The 25‑year‑old center, traded to LA in the offseason, managed just two points after early fouls, a sharp dip from his opening two Lakers games (48 points on four missed shots). He credited his teammates for the comeback from an 18‑point first‑quarter hole, highlighted by Luka Doncic’s 52 points and Austin Reaves’ 29. Kessler says the experience was a learning moment and looks to rebound when the Lakers host Utah on Nov. 18 and 23 at Crypto.com Arena.
Teammates React as OKC’s Jalen Williams Suffers Horrific Injury
Oklahoma City Thunder forward Jalen Williams incurs a severe lower‑leg injury late in the Thunder’s 108‑101 victory over the Los Angeles Clippers on Oct. 26, 2026. After a collision with Kris Dunn and Derrick Jones Jr., Williams lands awkwardly, rupturing his ankle and requiring stretcher removal. Teammates, especially Shai Gilgeous‑Alexander, are visibly emotional, with SGA expressing concern and determination to hold the fort until Williams returns. Veteran Alex Caruso praises Williams’ resilience and predicts a strong comeback.
Miami Sink to Historic Low to Start Season in Giannis Era
The Miami Heat open the 2026‑27 season at a historic low, slipping to 0‑3 – their worst start since 2007 – after a 115‑110 loss to a short‑handed Charlotte Hornets. The Heat erased a 21‑point deficit, tied the game at 104, but fell short, now outscored by 47 points over three games. Giannis Antetokounmpo, limited to 14 points, lamented the team’s lack of tone, while Coach Erik Spoelstra bluntly warned that the system isn’t working and urged players to inspire each other. The franchise faces a crucial early‑season turnaround.
Joe Mazzulla on Jayson Tatum & Jaylen Brown Tension
Boston Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla addresses the speculation surrounding Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown after Brown’s move to Philadelphia. Speaking at a Celtics practice on Sunday, Mazzulla praised the decade‑long partnership, noting their great moments while stressing that their different personalities and playing styles aren’t a negative. He emphasized that the team’s focus is now on Tatum, saying Brown’s contributions are appreciated but the franchise looks ahead with Tatum as its cornerstone. Mazzulla also remarks that such roster changes are part of the business and not something to be saddened by.
Jaylen Brown Takes Subtle Shot at Jayson Tatum
Jaylen Brown insists there’s no beef between him and former Boston Celtics teammate Jayson Tatum, but his latest comments suggest there’s still some tension between the two. Following the Philadelphia 76ers’ 127-116 win over the Milwaukee Bucks on Saturday, Brown addressed his relationship with Tatum while taking a subtle shot at his former teammate’s public […] The post Jaylen Brown Takes Subtle Shot at Jayson Tatum appeared first on Basketball Forever .
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