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Warriors inquire about Jalen Smith, but Myles Turner’s price a different story
The Golden State Warriors are probing the Chicago Bulls about 26‑year‑old forward Jalen Smith, who has a $9.4 million expiring deal and can stretch the floor, but they show far less appetite for Milwaukee’s Myles Turner, whose $26 million salary runs through 2028‑29. According to Jake Fischer of The Stein Line, the Warriors would only consider Turner if the Bucks add draft picks or other incentives. The inquiries reflect a desire for frontcourt help without locking the team into long‑term cap commitments as they continue to shop Kristaps Porzingis’s contract.
Bill Simmons takes aim at Adam Silver over NBA injuries: ‘You’re making your sport worse’
On the Bill Simmons Podcast, Bill Simmons slams NBA commissioner Adam Silver, demanding a cut from the 82‑game schedule to 70 games to curb the league’s growing injury list. Citing sidelined stars like Anthony Edwards, Jalen Williams, Chet Holmgren, Paolo Banchero and Ja Morant, Simmons calls the current approach “negligent” and driven by greed. While the article notes that injuries have varied causes and a shorter season isn’t a guaranteed fix, it highlights the pressure on Silver to address player health, noting other ideas such as 40‑minute games. The piece weighs Simmons’ criticism against the logistical and financial challenges of reducing games, urging a thoughtful response from the commissioner.
NBA Notes: Cavs, Meleek Thomas, Jazz, Jusuf Nurkic, Grizzlies
Rookie Meleek Thomas is forcing the Cavaliers to keep him on the floor, scoring double figures in every game and dropping 17 points in his first start versus the Thunder, prompting whispers of All‑Star potential. Meanwhile, the Utah Jazz await a re‑evaluation of center Jusuf Nurkic, who is recovering from a partial plantar plate tear and could boost the team’s rebounding, passing and front‑court depth, especially with Jaren Jackson Jr. out. The Memphis Grizzlies sit 6‑1, riding a 42.2% three‑point rate and a top‑five defense, but face questions about sustaining shooting, health and a tougher schedule as they test themselves against the West’s elite.
Ex-Cavs forward Isaiah Mobley joins Spanish team looking for first win
Ex‑Cavaliers forward Isaiah Mobley signs with Spain’s Basquet Manresa, the league’s only winless team at 0‑6 in the 18‑team Liga ACB. The 6‑ft‑9 big, older brother of Evan Mobley, brings NBA experience from 23 games with the Cavs and 76ers (2022‑25) and a recent stint in Turkey and Israel. Manresa hopes Mobley can help them secure their first victory this season.
Warriors stop paying Kristaps Porzingis, but still want to trade him
The Golden State Warriors have stopped paying Kristaps Porzingis, citing that he isn’t providing contracted services, and are now seeking a trade rather than a buyout or contract void. Porzingis, out indefinitely with an undisclosed health issue and leaning toward retirement, is owed about $20 million this season and holds a $20 million player option for next year, with only $3 million guaranteed. The team is exploring fronts like the Bulls’ expiring Jalen Smith deal and a Myles Turner swap that would require an extra asset from the Bucks. With five straight wins after an 0‑3 start, the Warriors hope a trade can convert Porzingis’ salary into front‑court help.
How to watch Cavs vs. Thunder, TV channels and streaming options
The Cleveland Cavaliers clash with the Oklahoma City Thunder tonight at 8 p.m. ET at Paycom Center. Local fans can watch on DAZN‑CLE, or via DIRECTV (channel 660) and U‑verse (channels 1734 HD/734 SD) with eligible packages. Out‑of‑market viewers need NBA League Pass or the League Pass add‑on through Prime Video. The game isn’t on free over‑the‑air Channel 19; the next free broadcast is Nov. 14. The Cavs enter the game 4‑3 after a 117‑112 loss, while the Thunder improve to 5‑2 after Shai Gilgeous‑Alexander’s 43 points. Radio coverage is on WTAM 1100 and 100.7 WMMS.
Nick Young questions Evan Mobley’s aggression, but the Cavs’ issue goes deeper
Nick Young questions why Cavs' forward Evan Mobley isn’t more aggressive, but the article argues the issue runs deeper. While Mobley’s quiet demeanor may mask his effort, his stats through seven games—19.1 points, 8 rebounds, 3.6 assists, 57.6% shooting and 53.3% from three—show clear progress. The piece suggests the Cavs could benefit from using Mobley as a primary center alongside Mitchell, Harden, and two wings, though benching Jarrett Allen would sacrifice rim protection. Ultimately, the Cavs must consistently prioritize Mobley’s involvement to unlock his 25‑point, 12‑rebound potential as they sit 4‑3 before their November 8 rematch with Oklahoma City.
Sonics’ return still has hurdles, but Adam Silver’s comments offer some encouragement
Commissioner Adam Silver tells The Pat McAfee Show (Oct. 20) that Seattle and Las Vegas remain the two cities in active NBA expansion talks, with Seattle’s Climate Pledge Arena already NBA‑ready. While he praises Seattle’s arena and basketball heritage, he stops short of confirming a new franchise, noting the league aims to decide by the end of 2026. Reports suggest Seattle’s financial bid trails Las Vegas, but the city’s existing venue gives it an edge. Fans can expect a clearer update within the next two months, though any approval still hinges on business negotiations.
Hornets’ Kon Knueppel probable for season debut against Nets
The Charlotte Hornets list rookie sharpshooter Kon Knueppel as probable for his season debut against the Brooklyn Nets on Wednesday, ending an eight‑game stint on the injured list with a left hamstring strain. Knueppel, who led the NBA with 273 made threes as a rookie and averaged 18.5 points, 5.3 rebounds and 3.4 assists last season, could boost a Hornets offense that sits last in rating (3‑5 record). His return also eases the load on hot‑handed Brandon Miller (23.5 ppg, 37.8% shooting) and pairs with the recently cleared Coby White, giving coach Charles Lee more weapons.
Could Clippers’ rough start lead to a trade deadline fire sale?
After slipping to 1-6 in their first seven games, the Los Angeles Clippers may need to consider a fire‑sale before the February trade deadline, writes analyst Cem Yolbulan. He suggests turning veterans like Kris Dunn, Derrick Jones Jr. and 38‑year‑old Brook Lopez into draft picks or younger talent, with potential first‑round returns for Dunn or Jones. Bigger assets such as Darius Garland’s $42.1 million contract and Brandon Ingram’s expiring deal could also be on the table. Complicating matters, GM Lawrence Frank and owner Steve Ballmer are suspended amid the Kawhi Leonard investigation, leaving interim leaders to decide the franchise’s future.
Norchad Omier to sign with Cavs after backing out of Timberwolves deal
Cleveland is set to add 25‑year‑old forward Norchad Omier on a two‑way contract after he walked away from a Timberwolves deal. Omier, who logged 18.3 points, 11.4 rebounds and 2.5 assists while shooting 59.2% in 38 G‑League games last season, earned All‑Rookie honors and was third in Rookie of the Year voting. The Cavs must waive one of their current two‑way players—Tristan Enaruna, Riley Minix or Ernest Udeh Jr.—to make room. Omier, the first Nicaraguan‑born NBA player, previously spent time with the Cleveland Charge and the Clippers.
Cavs need Donovan Mitchell to read the game, not carry every possession
After a 117-112 home loss to the Thunder, the Cavaliers debate Donovan Mitchell’s role: should he keep distributing or take over scoring when needed? Mitchell posted 17 points and 11 assists, with six teammates in double figures, yet the team missed 10 free throws and gave up 15 offensive rebounds. Critics like Chase Brownawell argue Mitchell must be more aggressive, but recent games show the value of letting Mobley and Allen dominate. Coach Kenny Atkinson aims to balance playmaking, big‑man scoring, and Harden’s facilitation while allowing Mitchell to strike in clutch moments. At 4‑3, Cleveland must tighten defense, improve free‑throw shooting, and fine‑tune decision‑making before their next matchup with Oklahoma City.
NBA Notes: Cavs, Kenny Atkinson, Raptors, Scottie Barnes, Suns
Seven games into the 2026‑27 NBA season, the Cavaliers sit 4‑3 as coach Kenny Atkinson faces criticism over rotating lineups and missed free throws that contributed to a five‑point loss to the Thunder. Meanwhile, the Raptors, despite a 31.5% three‑point rate, boast a league‑best 20.9 turnovers forced and top offensive rebounds, with Scottie Barnes averaging 24.4 points in Kawhi Leonard’s absence. The Phoenix Suns fall to 1‑4 after squandering a 17‑point lead against the Warriors, plagued by fourth‑quarter turnovers and limited interior production while Devin Booker urges the team to "put 48 minutes together."
LeBron James calls out youth sports trend, Blake Griffin weighs in
LeBron James slams the push for year‑round sport specialization in kids as young as six, calling it “the worst thing you can do.” Steve Nash raised the issue on Mind the Game, noting the pressure on families to choose a single sport early. Blake Griffin echoed the critique on The Stepback Show, joking about LeBron’s meme while warning that early specialization can lead to costly injuries, like his own rookie‑year kneecap issue. The trio argues that kids should play multiple sports instead of committing to one before age nine.
Adam Silver reportedly likes the idea of 40-minute games
Amid an NBA injury crisis, Sports Illustrated’s Chris Mannix reveals that Commissioner Adam Silver is reportedly open to trimming games from 48 to 40 minutes. Mannix, speaking with Rachel Nichols, says the idea could reduce star absences, but he doubts its financial viability and warns bench players might see even less playing time. With the Thunder missing Jalen Williams, Cason Wallace, Chet Holmgren and Anthony Edwards already sidelined, the league faces pressure to keep its star‑driven product on the court. While no formal proposal exists, the discussion highlights the challenge of balancing player health, fan expectations, and revenue.
Thunder not desperate, but big trade may make sense
The Oklahoma City Thunder sit 5‑2 after a 43‑point performance by Shai Gilgeous‑Alexander against Cleveland, but injuries have sidelined Jalen Williams, Cason Wallace and Chet Holmgren, leaving three starters out. Analyst Zach Lowe suggests a "win‑now" trade, possibly moving salaries like Williams’ or Isaiah Hartenstein’s to acquire a high‑impact player for around $20 million. While the team is still winning, the competitive Western Conference may force OKC to consider reshaping its roster.
Warriors not considering voiding Kristaps Porzingis’ contract
The Golden State Warriors say they are not looking to void Kristaps Porzingis’ contract despite his unexplained absence due to a health issue. A team source tells Hoops Wire that the deal remains intact, with Porzingis still owed $23 million and only $3 million guaranteed for next season, making it a possible trade asset but not a simple buyout. Meanwhile, Draymond Green and Al Horford are filling in at center alongside Charles Bassey and Graham Ike, as the club navigates a tight cap situation—about $300K under the second‑apron hard cap—while seeking a long‑term solution.
Timberwolves to sign Norchad Omier, waive Enrique Freeman
The Minnesota Timberwolves are signing 25‑year‑old forward Norchad Omier to a two‑way contract, creating the slot by waiving forward Enrique Freeman, who is sidelined with an injury. Omier, who spent training camp with the Wolves and appeared in six preseason games, returns after a strong G League season in which he posted 18.3 points, 11.4 rebounds and a 59.2% field‑goal rate, earning All‑Rookie honors and a third‑place Rookie of the Year finish. The Nicaraguan‑born player, undrafted out of Baylor in 2025, previously logged six NBA games with the Clippers.
NBA holding exactly zero games today
The NBA schedules no games on Election Day, Nov. 3, 2026, marking the fourth time in five election cycles the league has cleared its slate to encourage voting. While the NHL and college basketball press on, the NBA returns Wednesday with 14 games. The article notes the league’s effort to let fans vote without missing action and recalls past elections, including the 2016 Cavs game during the Trump‑Clinton race.
Kenny Atkinson on Cavs’ missed free throws: ‘That’s a reason you lose’
Cleveland head coach Kenny Atkinson blames missed free throws for the Cavs’ 117-112 loss to Oklahoma City on Monday. Cleveland shot 14‑of‑24 from the line, leaving 10 points on the board, while Shai Gilgeous‑Alexander poured in 43 for the Thunder. Mitchell (17 points, 11 assists) and Harden combined for only 2‑of‑7 free throws. Atkinson also cited 15 offensive rebounds by Oklahoma City and a shaky first‑half lineup as factors. The Cavs fall to 4‑3 and will face the Thunder again Wednesday, focusing on free‑throw and rebounding drills.
Dribbles: Little things haunt Cavs yet again in loss to Thunder
The Cavaliers fall 117-112 to an undermanned Oklahoma City Thunder on Nov. 3, 2026, highlighting recurring ‘little‑thing’ lapses. Cleveland shoots just 14‑of‑24 from the line and drops 2‑of‑7 free throws from Donovan Mitchell and James Harden, while giving up 15 offensive rebounds that allow Shai Gilgeous‑Alexander to erupt for 43 points. Rookie Meleek Thomas and Mitchell each lead with 17 points, but the team’s inconsistency on rebounding, free throws and ball security costs them a win, leaving the Cavs at 4‑3. Coach Kenny Atkinson vows improvement ahead of a quick return to OKC and upcoming games against the 76ers and Knicks.
Cavs’ James Harden moves past Mike Conley on NBA’s all-time games list
James Harden logs his 1,228th regular‑season game on Nov. 3, 2026, passing Mike Conley for 44th place on the NBA’s all‑time games played list. The milestone arrives against the Oklahoma City Thunder—where Harden began his career—while he stars for the Cleveland Cavaliers in his 18th season. Though known for scoring, Harden’s 13 points and seven assists in 26 minutes against Milwaukee illustrate his current role as a play‑maker for a championship‑aspiring Cavs squad.
Cavs-Thunder halftime dribbles
At halftime in Cleveland, the Thunder lead the Cavaliers 59-48 despite missing Chet Holmgren, Jalen Williams, Cason Wallace and Alex Caruso. The Cavs struggled with second‑chance points, surrendering six offensive rebounds that turned into Thunder scores, and their defense collapsed in the second quarter. Offensively, Donovan Mitchell and Jarrett Allen each have nine points, with James Harden and Meleek Thomas at seven, while Evan Mobley remains underused. Coach Kenny Atkinson’s halftime message after the Wizards win was to force opponents “over the top,” a strategy the Cavs will need again as they try to claw back in the second half.
Peyton Watson out for Cavs; Meleek Thomas to start
The Cavaliers face a lineup shake‑up for Monday’s home game against the Thunder at 7 p.m. in Rocket Arena. Wing forward Peyton Watson is ruled out with hamstring soreness, and Jaylon Tyson and big man Nae’Qwan Tomlin also miss the contest, leaving Cleveland (4‑2) short on wing depth. Rookie Meleek Thomas earns his first NBA start, joining Donovan Mitchell, James Harden, Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley. Oklahoma City (4‑2) is similarly depleted, missing Chet Holmgren, Jalen Williams, Alex Caruso and Cason Wallace. Coach Kenny Atkinson downplays Watson’s injury, noting it’s the same hamstring that sidelined him late last season.
Mavericks rejecting trade calls on Kyrie Irving
The Dallas Mavericks are shutting down all trade talks for Kyrie Irving, according to Marc Stein. The team isn’t even fielding calls from interested clubs, preferring to see how Irving’s partnership with rookie Cooper Flagg develops. ESPN’s Tim MacMahon says the duo’s on‑court chemistry and Irving’s locker‑room influence make a deal hard to justify, despite a strong market. While Miami Heat have been mentioned as a potential destination, nothing is imminent. The Mavericks appear committed to building around Flagg with Irving’s scoring and mentorship intact.
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