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Wizards’ Kyshawn George gives them a reason to look beyond Trae Young
Kyshawn George sparks hope for the Washington Wizards, posting 33 points and seven assists while hitting five of seven three‑pointers in the 118‑110 loss to Atlanta on Friday. His near‑40% three‑point shooting lifts the team's internal production, complementing bench scorer Tre Johnson's 23 points. Although Trae Young tallied 10 assists, his eight turnovers highlighted the need for balanced playmaking. With the Wizards now on a two‑game skid heading to Oklahoma City, George’s emergence offers a promising offensive option beyond Young’s return.
Could Knicks find frontcourt help in a trade with Clippers?
The Knicks are eyeing a modest frontcourt upgrade without a blockbuster trade, targeting Clippers' young bigs Yanic Konan Niederhauser and Baba Miller. Both 22‑23‑year‑old forwards offer size, rebounding and rim protection—Niederhauser on a sub‑$3 M rookie contract, Miller with developing shooting. Adding a low‑cost, work‑horse center could give Mike Brown flexibility behind Karl‑Anthony Towns and cover foul‑trouble scenarios. While the Clippers sit 1‑7 and may retain their prospects, the Knicks must weigh price versus readiness before committing to a developmental piece.
Grizzlies’ 6-0 start gives way to a turnover problem and three straight losses
After a surprising 6-0 opening stretch, the Memphis Grizzlies have dropped three straight games, largely due to a turnover epidemic. The latest loss was a 128-97 drubbing by the Oklahoma City Thunder, where Memphis committed 18 turnovers that yielded 30 points. Shai Gilgeous‑Alexander (28), Ajay Mitchell’s career‑high 35 and Jared McCain’s 21 powered the Thunder, while Memphis shot just 32% overall and 22% from three. Despite strong rebounding (13 offensive boards) and promising rookie Cameron Boozer, the Grizzlies’ careless passes and inconsistent intensity are the chief concerns, according to Landon Speck of Grizzlies On SI.
Kings’ defense keeps giving their offense little chance
Despite a 124-109 loss to the Spurs, Sacramento’s Kings showed offensive flashes, with rookie Darius Acuff Jr. posting 22 points and eight assists and LeBron Black adding 12 points, four threes, and four assists in 40 minutes. However, the team’s 1‑8 start continues as defensive lapses dominate; the Kings allowed 75 first‑half points and 15‑of‑30 three‑pointers from San Antonio. Coach Doug Christie now faces the task of tightening a backcourt featuring Acuff, Zach LaVine, and Domantas Sabonis while integrating contributors like Dylan Cardwell, who logged nine points and three blocks in limited minutes. Until the defense improves, offensive gains won’t translate to wins.
Dribbles: Cavs take control, keep it in rout of LeBron James, Sixers
The Cavaliers dominate the 76ers 119-95 in their NBA Cup opener, with Donovan Mitchell scoring 23 points and dishing eight assists while Evan Mobley adds 22. LeBron James struggles, posting just eight points on 3‑of‑12 shooting and six turnovers, and Joel Embiid goes 0‑of‑9, scoring only six free‑throw points. Bench contributions from James Harden (17), Mario Hezonja (15) and Peyton Watson (13) fuel the win. Coach Kenny Atkinson credits staunch defense, especially against Tyrese Maxey, as the key. The victory improves Cleveland to 5‑4 as they prepare for a showdown with the defending champion Knicks Saturday.
Cavs-Sixers halftime dribbles
At halftime of the Cavs' home game against the 76ers, Cleveland leads 62-54. Donovan Mitchell fuels the offense with 10 points, while Evan Mobley, stepping in for injured Jarrett Allen, adds 15 on 6‑of‑9 shooting and dominates the paint against Joel Embiid. LeBron James is quiet, shooting 1‑of‑4 and committing a turnover, while the bench contributes little beyond Meleek Thomas. The Sixers struggle on the glass, with VJ Edgecombe scoring 17 on efficient shooting. For a win, Cleveland needs continued firepower from Mitchell, Mobley and a breakout performance from role players like Peyton Watson, Sam Merrill or James Harden.
Hornets’ rough start prompts insider to declare ‘panic time’
After trading LaMelo Ball, the Charlotte Hornets sit 3-6 and hold the league’s worst offensive rating, prompting Yahoo Sports insider Kevin O’Connor to label it “panic time.” The team is shooting under 30% on over half its three‑point attempts, with Sion James struggling and Charles Lee still encouraging the volume. With Kon Knueppel out due to a hamstring strain, Brandon Miller’s 22‑point average comes on more than 20 shots per game. O’Connor notes poor body language and a “broken” feel, urging a shift away from the current three‑point heavy approach before January.
Warriors’ Kristaps Porzingis announces he’s stepping away from basketball
Warriors forward Kristaps Porzingis (31) announces he is stepping away from basketball to focus on his health, posting a statement on X that he is not at the performance level he expects. He did not label it retirement nor reveal the specific issue, and gave no timeline for a return. The team has halted his salary since he missed training camp, and he and the NBPA do not plan to contest the move. Porzingis says he will cooperate with Golden State to find a resolution. The Warriors continue a six‑game win streak with Draymond Green filling the center role.
Warriors’ Draymond Green on Kristaps Porzingis: ‘Everybody’s moved on in their mindset’
Warriors forward Draymond Green says the team isn’t pausing its six‑game winning streak for the return of former New York Knicks big man Kristaps Porzingis. Speaking to Sam Amick of The Athletic, Green stressed that the Warriors’ culture stays focused on the players in uniform, noting he’s even started at center for the sixth time in nine games during a 120‑100 victory over Miami. While the squad respects Porzingis’ talent, Green adds no one is waiting for him to arrive and “everybody’s moved on in their mindset,” leaving his future with Golden State uncertain.
Knicks actually issue statement defending Taylor Swift’s credentials as a fan
The New York Knicks officially defended Taylor Swift’s fandom after reserve guard Tyler Kolek labeled her the team’s “fakest” celebrity fan during an NBA2K stream with Miles McBride. Citing her long‑standing support, Madison Square Garden appearances, and courtside presence at Game 4 of the NBA Finals, a Knicks spokesperson issued a statement confirming Swift’s genuine enthusiasm. The incident sparked a brief debate, but the organization chose to clarify her fan status rather than let the controversy linger.
Ex-NBA player Ed Davis intends to plead guilty in gambling case
Former NBA big man Ed Davis will change his not‑guilty plea to guilty in a federal gambling case tied to teammate Malik Beasley, court records show. Davis, who faced four counts including sports bribery and wire‑fraud conspiracy, allegedly loaned money to Beasley and helped orchestrate a scheme to manipulate his rebounding performance for profit on player‑prop bets. The scheme centers on a Jan. 26, 2024 game against the Cavaliers, where Beasley posted three rebounds, under the 3.5‑rebound line. Beasley, also planning a guilty plea, has a hearing Dec. 9, while other co‑defendants are entering pleas this month. The case follows recent guilty pleas by ex‑players Jontay Porter and Damon Jones.
Blazers’ Micah Nori isn’t satisfied with strong start: ‘I see what they can be’
Portland’s head coach Micah Nori isn’t letting a 19‑point fourth‑quarter lead over the Phoenix Suns lull the team. After a defensive lapse that let Miles Bridges hit a three, Nori called a timeout to reinforce assignments, emphasizing practice, accountability and attention to detail. The Blazers improve to 6‑1 (5‑0 on the road) with strong contributions from Damian Lillard, Deni Avdija and Donovan Clingan, while veterans like Scoot Henderson and Toumani Camara echo Nori’s push for discipline. Nori’s mantra, “I see what they can be,” aims to turn early success into lasting excellence.
Jamal Crawford on Sonics’ potential return: ‘This time feels different’
NBA legend Jamal Crawford backs the Seattle group led by Kraken owner Samantha Holloway, Melinda French Gates, and Amazon CEO Andy Jassy in their push to bring the SuperSonics back. Crawford says previous promises fell short, but “this time feels different,” citing the consortium’s $6 billion valuation and control of Climate Pledge Arena as key advantages. Former Sonics star Detlef Schrempf adds that Seattle’s basketball culture remains strong, while Commissioner Adam Silver aims to resolve expansion by year‑end. Crawford’s endorsement hinges on the group’s vision aligning with the community, boosting optimism for an NBA return to Seattle.
NBA exec: Tyrese Maxey the Sixers star who is ‘making them go’
Philadelphia’s 8‑1 start is largely credited to point guard Tyrese Maxey, who now handles the Sixers’ biggest possessions and thrives in clutch moments. An Eastern Conference exec told ESPN that Maxey has earned the trust of stars like LeBron James and Joel Embiid, delivering 21 points in 19 clutch minutes – the third‑most in the league. The Sixers are 7‑0 in games decided by five points or fewer, while still ranking in the league’s bottom ten for offensive efficiency. Depth contributions from Anfernee Simons and Kentavious Caldwell‑Pope help, though backup center Ariel Hukporti’s Achilles injury remains a concern.
Lakers’ Luka Doncic has become ‘completely unguardable’
The Lakers are 7-2 largely thanks to Luka Doncic, who Zach Lowe calls the early MVP favorite and "completely unguardable." With Doncic on the floor the team is +21 per 100 possessions, but drops 17 without him. Doncic averages 38.5 points, 8.1 rebounds and 8.0 assists over eight games, shooting 49.5% overall and 43.1% from three. His ability to score from anywhere forces defenses to choose between giving him space or crowding him, often opening up teammates. The article notes the Lakers still need support when he rests, but his current play gives them a strong early-season edge.
Sixers’ Dean Wade expects ‘madhouse’ for LeBron James’ return to face Cavs
Dean Wade says the atmosphere at Rocket Arena will be a "madhouse" when LeBron James returns to face the Cavs. After seven seasons watching from the home side, Wade now anticipates the same wild energy for the Sixers, who sit 8‑1 on a four‑year, $39 million contract. Wade, averaging 26.3 minutes and 1.9 steals, has earned praise from Tyrese Maxey for his versatile defense. The Cavs, sitting 4‑4 after a recent two‑game skid and a blown 29‑point lead against Philadelphia, hope to end the slump. The game promises high‑octane fan noise and a clash of stars.
Heat clearly need more from Andrew Wiggins, supporting cast
Nine games into Giannis Antetokounmpo’s tenure, the Miami Heat sit 3‑6 despite his 27.3 points, 12.7 rebounds and 5.6 assists per game. Coach Erik Spoelstra says the supporting cast must step up, highlighting Andrew Wiggins’ underwhelming 8.6 points on 40.8% shooting and Tim Hardaway Jr.’s 28.1% three‑point rate as key deficiencies. The article argues the wing production, especially Wiggins’ defense and scoring, and inconsistent contributions from Hardaway Jr. are preventing the Heat from converting superstar output into wins. Bam Adebayo remains optimistic but stresses the need for time and better role player performance.
How to watch Cavs vs. Sixers: Prime Video, start time and injury report
The Cleveland Cavaliers host the Philadelphia 76ers Friday at 7:30 p.m. ET in the NBA Cup opener at Rocket Arena, streaming nationally on Amazon Prime Video (broadcast starts at 7 p.m.). Northeast Ohio listeners can tune to WTAM 1100 AM/WMMS 100.7 FM. Cleveland lists three rotation players as questionable—Jarrett Allen (right knee), Peyton Watson (right hamstring) and Tyrese Proctor (left ankle)—with Jaylon Tyson and Nae’Qwan Tomlin already out. Philadelphia’s Adem Bona is doubtful (cervical spine); Dominick Barlow and Ariel Hukporti are out. The Sixers enter 8‑1 on a five‑game streak, while the Cavs sit 4‑4 after a 114‑106 loss in opening night. LeBron James returns to Rocket Arena, adding extra intrigue to the matchup.
Doc Rivers on Giannis Antetokounmpo: ‘I wish he’d learned how to execute better’
Doc Rivers warns that Giannis Antetokounmpo still needs to improve his execution, even after joining the Miami Heat. In a interview with Bill Simmons, Rivers says Giannis plays at a “crazy downhill pace” and has great passing but a limited basketball IQ, noting he “forces” every play and must learn the value of disciplined execution. Rivers believes Erik Spoelstra can help the 3‑6 Heat unlock better chemistry with Bam Adebayo, but stresses that Giannis’s growth is essential for the team’s success.
Warriors’ Steve Kerr doesn’t need Draymond Green to score more: ‘I don’t care’
Coach Steve Kerr downplays Draymond Green’s scoring after the Warriors’ 120-100 win over the Miami Heat on Nov. 6, 2026, emphasizing the veteran’s defensive and playmaking role. Green logged just two points but handed out 11 assists, helped contain Giannis Antetokounmpo (20 points) and served as the team’s de facto center alongside Al Horford and Charles Bassey. Kerr praised Green’s “traffic‑directing” abilities and said his low shot volume isn’t a concern as long as he creates for teammates like Stephen Curry (29 points) and rookie Yaxel Lendeborg (17 points). The Warriors aim to sustain this defensive-first approach for the rest of the season.
Magic keep giving away possessions, and opponents keep cashing in
Orlando’s turnover woes continue as the Magic committed 25 miscues against a Phoenix Suns squad that ranks last in defensive rating, turning those errors into 36 points and a 117-104 defeat—their third straight loss. Despite a strong rebounding effort (15 offensive rebounds, 13 by Wendell Carter Jr., eight by Franz Wagner, seven by Anthony Black) and a 15‑rebound advantage, the Magic’s ball security faltered, compounded by 11 missed free throws. With the NBA’s fourth‑worst turnover rate heading into a four‑game West Coast stretch, the lack of possession control threatens their East‑bound aspirations.
Iman Shumpert pushes back on shorter NBA season, points to conditioning and style of play
Former NBA guard Iman Shumpert argues against cutting the 82‑game schedule, saying the league should focus on better conditioning and a shift back to post play, mid‑range shooting, and playing through contact. He cites legends like Michael Jordan, Karl Malone, John Stockton and Gary Payton as proof players can endure full seasons, and criticizes flopping and exaggerated movements. Shumpert’s stance contrasts with Bill Simmons’ call for a 70‑game season and notes Adam Silver’s separate 40‑minute game idea, sparking a broader debate on player health versus schedule.
NBA Notes: Hornets, Kon Knueppel, Nets, Julius Randle, Raptors
The Hornets lose sharpshooter Kon Knueppel again after a six‑minute return, as doctors diagnose a left hamstring strain and rule him out for Friday’s Celtics game, keeping Charlotte winless at 3‑6. Meanwhile, the Nets secure a 114‑104 win over the Hornets, with veteran Julius Randle opting to stay on the bench in the closing minutes, a decision praised by coach Jordi Fernandez. Toronto Raptors sit at 4‑4 but have faltered after halftime, dropping an average of 13.5 points in the third quarter of their four losses, highlighted by a 41‑15 third‑quarter collapse against Denver.
Could Blazers’ fast start make Scoot Henderson a trade candidate?
Portland’s surprising 6-1 start reignites talk about rookie guard Scoot Henderson’s future. At 22, Henderson is averaging 8.7 points, 2.3 rebounds and 1.4 assists on 32.8% shooting in his seventh game, still finding his role while the Blazers lean on Damian Lillard, Deni Avdija and Donovan Clingan. Sports Illustrated’s Ethan Hutton notes the team could flip Henderson for immediate front‑court or wing help, but stresses this is speculation, not a confirmed trade. With a strong early record, Portland must balance Henderson’s upside against any potential, quick‑fix acquisition.
Kings’ Zach LaVine after 1-7 start: ‘It’s just frustrating when you play hard’
Zach LaVine says the Sacramento Kings’ 116-103 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers highlights their biggest problem: turnovers. The Kings, now 1‑7, committed 18 miscues—including six by LaVine—leading to 23 easy points for a hot Lakers squad that saw Luka Doncic drop 40 points, nine rebounds and seven assists. LaVine praised Doncic’s talent but lamented the Kings’ inability to stop the Lakers and protect the ball, calling the effort “frustrating” despite playing hard. Cutting mistakes, he insists, is essential for the team to compete.
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