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Jaylen Brown appears to brush off Jayson Tatum before Celtics-Sixers reunion
Ahead of the Celtics‑Sixers game in Philadelphia, former Boston duo Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum share a frosty pre‑game moment. Tatum taps Brown, but Brown spins a ball on his finger and offers no greeting, while LeBron James warmly embraces Tatum. The encounter marks their first meeting as opponents since Brown’s July trade to the Sixers after helping Boston win the 2024 championship. Both players downplay any tension, with Brown noting on Sunday that they’re simply on opposite sides and “just checking the ball up.” Teammate Payton Pritchard adds there’s no beef, keeping the speculation alive.
Cavs’ numbers raise more questions about James Harden’s fit
New analytics suggest James Harden isn’t clicking with the Cavaliers. When Harden and Donovan Mitchell share the floor, Cleveland scores just 111.5 points per 100 possessions while allowing 114.2, but with Mitchell alone the offense jumps to 129.2 and defense improves to 108.1. A similar pattern appears with Mobley: the Harden‑Mobley duo is outscored by 6.4 points per 100 possessions, yet Mobley without Harden outperforms opponents by 27.8 points per 100 possessions. The data, alongside rebounding and defensive lapses, raise doubts about Harden’s fit as the Cavs sit 5‑6 early in the season.
Hawks have pieces for a trade, but finding the right upgrade another matter
At 7‑5, the Atlanta Hawks boast a young core—Jalen Johnson, Dyson Daniels, Nickeil Alexander‑Walker and Onyeka Okongwu—plus promising rookies Kingston Flemings and Zuby Ejiofor, but they still need a true upgrade to become serious Eastern contenders. Analyst Jackson Caudell lists veterans CJ McCollum, Lu Dort, Jock Landale and Dorian Finney‑Smith as trade assets that could lure a top‑level talent, even hypothetically targeting Devin Booker despite Phoenix’s reluctance. He also notes the appeal of a high‑caliber big man, though draft pick compensation and cost‑benefit calculations make any blockbuster trade complex. The piece outlines the Hawks’ assets and the difficulty of finding a game‑changing addition.
Hornets found more than their shooting touch in win over Cavs
The Charlotte Hornets snapped a six-game losing streak with a 124-112 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers on Monday, proving they can win without relying solely on three‑point shooting. Leading the attack, Grayson Allen dropped 27 points on 6‑of‑9 from deep, while Naz Reid contributed 25 and 13 rebounds. Rookie Ryan Kalkbrenner grabbed 15 boards, including 10 offensive, giving the team extra possessions. Despite missing Brandon Miller, Kon Knueppel and Moussa Diabaté, Charlotte posted 29 assists and built a 33‑point lead, only to see it shrink to eight late after a sluggish fourth quarter. The win highlights the Hornets’ rebounding depth and balanced scoring as a blueprint beyond hot‑shooting nights.
Raptors’ young players offer encouragement amid veteran injury concerns
The Toronto Raptors find a silver lining in their young talent as veterans battle injuries. Guard Jamal Shead logs six straight games with at least six assists, averaging 8.2 and even dishing 16 assists in a win over the Bucks while Immanuel Quickley is out. Forward Collin Murray‑Boyles shows defensive versatility beside Scottie Barnes and is willing to stretch the floor, offering flexibility for a frontcourt plagued by Jakob Poeltl’s inconsistent health. Meanwhile, Kawhi Leonard’s knee swelling has sidelined him after two games, leaving the team scrambling for continuity. The article weighs the promise of the youngsters against the uncertainty surrounding the veterans.
Cavs’ Meleek Thomas making case for more time alongside Donovan Mitchell
Rookie Meleek Thomas is forcing a fresh look at the Cleveland Cavaliers’ lineups as his shooting sparks a call for more minutes alongside star Donovan Mitchell. At 47.8% from three‑point range (22‑of‑46), including 52.9% on catch‑and‑shoot attempts, Thomas poured in 18 points in the recent loss to the Hornets, out‑scoring James Harden’s 11 and shooting 36.4% this season. Analyst Mack Perry suggests Thomas could thrive in a larger role without shouldering play‑making duties, letting Mitchell lead while Harden manages the offense. Coach Kenny Atkinson may experiment with a Mitchell‑Thomas combo to add offensive variety, though rebounding and defense remain issues.
Pelicans’ biggest names may not be their most valuable trade pieces
Fran Leiva argues that the New Orleans Pelicans' most valuable trade assets may not be their marquee names. While Zion Williamson remains the team's biggest star, Leiva ranks him sixth in trade value due to his hefty contract and injury history. He places young players Derik Queen, Jeremiah Fears (15.4 points, 4.9 assists at age 20) and Herb Jones higher, citing their rookie deals, availability and potential upside. The Pelicans sit 4‑7 after a 51‑point loss to the Warriors, highlighting the need for a clear direction on whether to leverage established talent for flexibility or retain promising youngsters. The article explores these valuation nuances without confirming any imminent trades.
Talkin’ Cavs: James Harden, Peyton Watson, Kenny Atkinson, rebounding
The Cleveland Cavaliers sit at 5-6 after a 33‑point loss to a shorthanded Charlotte Hornets, surrendering 17 offensive rebounds. In a radio interview with Jeff Phelps and Nick Pedone, host James Harden, rookie Peyton Watson and coach Kenny Atkinson discuss persistent rebounding woes, defensive lapses, and the need for accountability across the roster. Despite the bleak start, the team still has 71 games left, and analysts argue the Cavs should still be capable of a turnaround. The episode breaks down why familiar problems keep resurfacing and what changes might be required.
Pacers’ struggles expose how much still depends on Tyrese Haliburton
The Indiana Pacers sit 3-8 overall and 1-6 without Tyrese Haliburton, exposing their over‑reliance on the All‑Star guard. Alex Golden highlights three linked issues: a league‑worst offensive rebounding rank that yielded just 10.4 second‑chance points per game, and perimeter shooting well below the 36% league average, with only Andrew Nembhard and Larry Nance Jr. surpassing that mark. A 43-27 glass deficit in Monday’s loss to Dallas underscores the problem. While increased minutes for center Ivica Zubac may help, the team must improve rebounding and conversion of open looks to stay competitive until Haliburton returns.
Magic Johnson: Lakers’ JJ Redick has ‘become a great NBA coach’
Magic Johnson praises Lakers assistant coach JJ Redick, saying his in‑game switch from man‑to‑man to a zone defense against Atlanta helped spark the team’s 10‑2 start. Johnson highlights Redick’s play‑calling during timeouts and his role in stabilizing a roster that has seen LeBron James leave, nine new players arrive, and Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves take lead roles. The veteran notes the Lakers are now tougher in transition and more cohesive, crediting Redick’s adjustments for the early success.
Jeff Teague says Luka Doncic had to ‘dumb down his abilities’ with LeBron James
Former NBA All‑Star Jeff Teague claims Luka Doncic had to "dumb down" his game while sharing the court with LeBron James, suggesting the Mavericks' star thrived more when the Lakers rebuilt around him. Teague argues that with James now in Philadelphia, the Lakers’ 10‑2 start reflects a system built for Doncic rather than being limited by LeBron’s presence. He notes the roster overhaul, not just James’ departure, contributed to the improvement. Meanwhile, James helps the Sixers sit at 9‑2, with Tyrese Maxey praising his passing. Teague sees Doncic’s expanded freedom as a key factor, but only playoff results will confirm its impact.
Mavericks’ Cooper Flagg on 43-point night: ‘Trying to make as many winning plays as I can’
Cooper Flagg erupted for 43 points, 10 rebounds, six assists and three steals as the Mavericks edged the Pacers 125-122 on Nov. 9. Flagg highlighted his focus on making "winning plays" and expanding his scoring arsenal to ease the physical toll of battling big men in the paint. He credited teammates and coaches for trusting him in clutch moments, noting his new comfort with mid‑range jumpers and shot selection. At 19, Flarg’s versatile offensive game signals a reliable late‑night option for Dallas beyond this season.
Bucks’ 1-9 start raises questions about who fits their future
After trading Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Milwaukee Bucks stumble to a 1‑9 start, prompting a debate over who belongs in the team's next chapter. Fadeaway World analyst Fran Leiva urges Milwaukee to lean into its younger talent—Kel’el Ware, Nate Ament, Brayden Burries, Kasparas Jakucionis—and consider moving veterans like Kyle Kuzma and Myles Turner, who are underperforming (Turner averages 7.1 points on 34.6% shooting). Leiva would keep productive pieces such as Tyler Herro (21.4 PPG) and Jaquez Jr. (15.2 PPG) if contract terms allow. The article weighs rebuilding options against the reality of finding buyers while the Bucks look to give their emerging players more minutes.
Sixers’ Tyrese Maxey credits LeBron James: ‘He has made everybody willing passers’
Tyrese Maxey says LeBron James instantly eased the Sixers' ball‑movement concerns, noting that James' willingness to pass set a tone that encouraged teammates like Joel Embiid to do the same. After a 9‑2 start, Coach Nick Nurse credits James and Embiid for fostering a selfless style that fuels the team's defensive grit and scoring from Maxey and Jaylen Brown. Despite the early success, the Sixers still face rebounding issues, bench scoring limits and backup center questions, which Boston Celtics opponent Jaylen Brown warns could surface later.
Lakers trade possibilities include two familiar faces for Luka Doncic
The Lakers, sitting 10-2, are still exploring trade options to bolster a roster built around Luka Doncic. Analyst Jovan Buha suggests targeting former Mavericks teammates P.J. Washington and Derrick Jones Jr., both potentially available—Jones on an expiring Clippers deal and Washington if Dallas looks to move him. Magic center Goga Bitadze is also mentioned as a shake‑up candidate. To acquire any of these pieces, Los Angeles may need to part with Collin Sexton, Jaden Hardy, and draft assets, forcing tough choices about depth versus future capital. The article outlines the feasibility of each move without confirming active negotiations.
EuroLeague reportedly considering 24-team field for 2027-28
EuroLeague may expand to a 24‑team format for the 2027‑28 season, possibly split into two conferences. The board is set to vote by late November on granting permanent licenses to Maxima Roma, Valencia, Dubai Basketball, Paris Basketball, Hapoel Tel Aviv and PAOK, joining 12 shareholder clubs such as Real Madrid, Barcelona and Olimpia Milano. Wild‑card spots are earmarked for Partizan, Crvena Zvezda, Virtus Bologna, Napoli Basketball and two EuroCup qualifiers, giving Italy four representatives. The proposal aims to tap new markets but raises scheduling concerns alongside domestic league duties.
Michael Jordan’s praise for Scottie Pippen came with a catch: ‘He never told me’
In his memoir Unguarded, Scottie Pippen reveals that after the 1992 Olympic Dream Team won gold in Barcelona, Michael Jordan privately told teammate Phil Jackson that Pippen was the "best all‑around player on the team" and even outplayed him at times. Jordan never said it to Pippen directly, and the former Bulls star only learned of the praise years later. The compliment, coming from a three‑time MVP who led the Bulls to three consecutive titles, still resonates for Pippen, who notes their on‑court chemistry contrasted with a distant personal relationship.
Celtics’ Payton Pritchard on Jaylen Brown split: ‘I don’t think there was ever a beef’
Ahead of their first meeting as opponents on Tuesday night in Philadelphia, Celtics guard Payton Pritchard downplays any feud between former Boston teammates Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum. Pritchard says there was never a "beef," noting they simply manage working relationships and focus on winning. He praises Brown for pushing him to improve after drafting in 2024, the year they won the championship with Brown as Finals MVP. Both Brown and Sixers’ new star stress it’s just basketball, while Paul George calls Tatum "locked in" for the game.
Cavs’ struggles go beyond coaching, NBA analyst argues
NBA analyst Kevin O'Connor argues the Cleveland Cavaliers' 5-6 start stems from a flawed roster, not just coaching. He says the top four—Donovan Mitchell, James Harden, Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen—form an imperfect backcourt and frontcourt, with Harden looking past his prime and Mobley struggling against smaller defenders. The bench offers little help, as shown by a 124-112 loss to a shorthanded Hornets. While Atkinson may eventually be replaced, O'Connor believes the core itself is the bigger issue.
Wizards’ Anthony Davis after 44-point night: ‘We’re not playing any defense’
Anthony Davis poured in 44 points, 13 rebounds and shot 16‑of‑21 for the Wizards in a 122‑111 loss to the Detroit Pistons on Nov. 10, 2026. Despite his effort, Washington’s defense crumbled—allowing 72 points in the second and third quarters, committing 18 turnovers and going 9‑of‑36 from three. Davis blamed “everything” from poor defense to missed rebounding, while Pistons coach J.B. Bickerstaff praised his team’s collective work. The Wizards fall to 4‑7, extending a three‑game skid, and must improve as they consider Davis’s contract extension after 20‑30 games.
Warriors could listen on Draymond Green, but a trade is another matter
The Golden State Warriors say they’ll entertain offers for veteran Draymond Green, but finding a trade that improves the roster is far trickier. Sources cite The Athletic’s Sam Amick saying Green could be on the market around the February deadline, yet no active shopping is confirmed. Green’s defensive versatility and play‑making for Stephen Curry outweigh his modest scoring, meaning any replacement must match those intangibles. The Sacramento Kings, with Domantas Sabonis as a possible return, surface as a theoretical fit, but the deal hinges on more than salary balance.
Dribbles: Same old issues cost Cavs mightily against shorthanded Hornets
The Cavaliers stumble 124-112 at Charlotte despite facing a shorthanded Hornets squad, exposing recurring flaws. Donovan Mitchell managed just 11 points on 4‑of‑11 shooting, while James Harden added 11 with five assists and four turnovers, and Evan Mobley posted nine points and four turnovers. Charlotte dominated the glass with 17 offensive rebounds and hit 23 of 46 threes, turning the game into a rebounding nightmare for Cleveland. Even Allen’s efficient 12‑point, seven‑rebound comeback couldn’t spark a turnaround. Rookie Meleek Thomas led Cleveland with 18, but the team’s inability to protect leads and secure second‑chance points leaves them 5‑6 after a disappointing early season stretch.
Scott Henderson still seeking rhythm amid Blazers’ strong start
Portland sits 6‑3 early, but rookie Scoot Henderson struggles to find his footing. Shooting under 33% and just 6‑of‑36 from three, his start falls short of preseason hype, especially with Ja Morant out and backcourt duties increasing. Meanwhile, Sidy Cissoko shows growing confidence off the dribble, and Yang Hansen posts a double‑double in 26 minutes against the Spurs, signaling depth potential. An ankle fracture sidelines promising Vit Krejci, leaving the Blazers to balance injuries and uneven production while hoping Henderson can spark a smoother offensive rhythm.
Wizards want longer look at Anthony Davis before extension decision
The Washington Wizards plan to evaluate Anthony Davis over 20‑30 games before deciding on a contract extension or trade. ESPN’s Brian Windhorst says the team wants to see how Davis meshes with a young roster led by Trae Young, as the Wizards sit 4‑6 early in the season. Davis is still recovering from a sprained ankle, adding uncertainty to the assessment. While rumors of a Lakers reunion surface, Windhorst deems a return “very unlikely.” The next stretch will reveal whether Washington commits to Davis long‑term or opts to move him.
Hornets’ LaMelo Ball trade faces early scrutiny: ‘They’re in shambles’
The Hornets' trade of LaMelo Ball to the Timberwolves is already under fire as Charlotte struggles offensively, posting a 99.7 offensive rating and a -14.2 net rating. Bill Simmons, who once backed the deal, now warns that the Hornets are "in shambles" and questions whether return piece Naz Reid is comfortable in Charlotte. While Ball thrives in Minnesota, even stepping up with Anthony Edwards out, the Hornets grapple with injuries to Brandon Miller and Kon Knueppel, complicating the trade's short‑term fallout. The article examines whether the long‑term gain justifies the immediate pain.
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