For Steph Curry, he is expected to play for the Warriors tonight at home in the Chase Center. Curry logged 10 points in 12 minutes during the Warriors’ preseason opener.

However, Luka Doncic‘s status is doubtful, meaning he is unlikely to suit up on the second night of a back-to-back preseason period. Doncic had 21 points on Monday against the Sacramento Kings.

Steph Curry is entering year 17 with high expectations

Now 37 years old, Curry is entirely focused on “extending his prime” and maintains an inner belief that he can still play at the absolute top of his game to compete for championships. However, while he has high expectations, the Golden State Warriors’ external expectations for the team are actually at a decade-long low.

For over a decade, Curry and the Warriors entered training camp with clear-cut title expectations. However, heading into the 2026–27 NBA season, plenty of analysts are widely predicting Golden State to miss the postseason entirely.

LA Lakers’ Luka Doncic has lots of pressure this year

Luka Doncic enters the 2026 NBA season facing intense pressure as the undisputed franchise centerpiece of the Los Angeles Lakers following a major organizational and roster overhaul, including parting ways with LeBron James.

With LeBron James no longer on the roster, the weight of carrying the franchise rests squarely on Doncic’s shoulders alongside co-leader Austin Reaves. Public and media expectations remain sky-high for Dončić to deliver an NBA championship to Los Angeles.

Key Takeaways

• Stephen Curry is expected to play for Golden State in tonight’s preseason home opener.
• Luka Dončić remains doubtful on the second night of a back-to-back slate.
• Analysts predict Golden State could miss the postseason entirely entering year 17.

All signs point to Jalen Brunson and Towns playing minutes against the 76ers, as both are available. Knicks coach Mike Brown plans a light workload for his starters throughout the preseason, so most of the minutes will go to reserves and to five veterans on non-guaranteed deals chasing what is likely one open roster spot.

Those taking on the heavy minute load will be those five: Bruce Brown, Ochai Agbaji, James Wiseman, Drew Eubanks, and Tony Bradley. It is the first meeting since New York swept Philadelphia 4-0 in the 2026 Eastern Conference semifinals on the way to their first NBA title since 1973.

Regulating minutes makes sense for Brunson

The caution makes sense. Brunson spent much of the summer in a cast after undergoing surgery to repair a tendon in his left wrist. Also, Josh Hart is playing despite having a right ring finger injury that requires a joint replacement—a procedure he will not undergo until he retires, as the surgery would end his career.

Do not expect to see a huge performance from Jalen Brunson this Monday. However, it is worth noting that, according to a report by the New York Daily News, the team arrived in “pretty good shape” after a Finals run that extended into June.

The Knicks face a direct rival. As is well known, the Knicks are coming off a dominant campaign that culminated in their first championship since 1973. Unlike the Sixers, this group has been together for a long time, so building chemistry quickly is likely not as important as making sure everyone is healthy after a long summer.

However, as is known, the Sixers will not have their starting lineup available: LeBron James, Tyrese Maxey, Joel Embiid, Anfernee Simons, Dominick Barlow, and Adem Bona are ruled out for the preseason opener against the Knicks. This gives the advantage to the defending NBA champions.

Key takeaways

• Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns are expected to play against the 76ers.
• A 4-0 sweep was achieved by New York in the 2026 Eastern Conference semifinals.
• Right ring finger injury requires eventual joint replacement for Josh Hart.

LeBron James and Joel Embiid are among the healthy inactives for the Philadelphia 76ers, meaning they are out for the matchup. The decision is tactical, likely aimed at avoiding exposing both players to potential injury.

Furthermore, they will not be the only ones sitting out, as the Sixers will not have several of their biggest names on the floor. Tyrese Maxey is also ruled out, while Anfernee Simons, Dominick Barlow, Adem Bona, and Tacko Fall are among the other Philadelphia players unavailable for the opener.

Concerning injury report for LeBron

James had been seen participating comfortably in training sessions with the 76ers, but a report emerged today that raises concern among 76ers fans regarding how the veteran is entering this season. The ruling comes on the same day that ESPN’s Dave McMenamin provided additional insight into James’ physical condition entering his 24th NBA season.

McMenamin reported that James is dealing with chronic arthritis in his left foot, with special attention paid to the area during his daily training routine. His lower back is also being monitored after sciatica caused him to miss the first month of last season.

These factors make workload management a major consideration for Philadelphia, especially given James’ age and the length of the regular season. The Sixers are already analyzing how to manage that workload and handle back-to-back games as they prepare for the season.

Embiid’s physical status

That lingering worry over LeBron can be eased by the progress made by Embiid. Hours before tipoff, Philadelphia received another encouraging sign about the former MVP’s physical condition.

ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne reported Monday on “NBA Today” that Embiid has slimmed down to his rookie weight following an offseason in which the 32-year-old finally had an opportunity to focus on training instead of rehabilitation.

Embiid was listed at 250 pounds coming out of Kansas before Philadelphia selected him with the No. 3 pick in the 2014 NBA draft. His current NBA profile lists him at 270 pounds. If true, this represents a highly significant change given Embiid’s injury history. It remains a shame that fans will have to wait to see LeBron and Joel share the floor.

Key takeaways

• Healthy inactives keep LeBron James and Joel Embiid out against the New York Knicks.
• Chronic arthritis in his left foot was reported ahead of his 24th season.
• A return to rookie weight was reported following an offseason focused on training.

“We run out a lot of ground balls. We look at a lot of stuff, and we ultimately make what we think is the best decision… We maintain some flexibility. We have a bunch of assets, so we’re in a really good spot,” Dunleavy told reporters during a media press conference.

Dunleavy’s comments shed light on why the Golden State front office opted for a measured approach this summer, prioritizing Stephen Curry’s contract extension while waiting for Jimmy Butler to return from injury.

Meanwhile, as fans eagerly await LeBron‘s debut with the Sixers, Draymond Green remains confident that the veteran star’s experience will bolster Philadelphia’s quest for an NBA championship this upcoming season.

Dunleavy breaks down Curry’s extension

When asked about Curry’s willingness to accept a pay cut to stay in the Bay Area, the Warriors’ general manager offered insight into the negotiations. “We just presented him with a plan to remain incredibly competitive. I think Steph’s biggest thing is always, ‘Allow me to understand, what are you thinking?’” Dunleavy explained.

Leaning into their long-term process to rebound in the 2026–27 campaign, the Warriors will rely heavily on the star duo of Curry and Butler to carry the load, having taken a conservative approach to major roster additions this summer.

Breaking down Golden State’s offseason moves

Golden State focused its 2026 offseason additions on draft talent and key role players, selecting power forward Yaxel Lendeborg with the No. 11 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft—who went on to earn Summer League MVP honors—and taking wing Lajae Jones at No. 54, alongside free-agent signings Georges Niang, Brandon Williams, and Dalen Terry.

To round out depth and maintain roster continuity ahead of the campaign, the franchise also signed big man Graham Ike to a two-way contract, agreed to veteran extensions with Curry and Kristaps Porziņgis, and re-signed key rotation pieces including Green, Al Horford, De’Anthony Melton, and Gary Payton II.

Key takeaways

• Mike Dunleavy explained why Golden State shifted its offseason plans regarding available free agents.
• Golden State selected power forward Yaxel Lendeborg with the No. 11 pick in 2026.
• Free agents Georges Niang, Brandon Williams, and Dalen Terry joined the franchise roster.

Stephen Curry has agreed to a two-year, $116 million contract extension with the Golden State Warriors, featuring a player option for the 2028-29 season, according to sources cited by ESPN’s Shams Charania.

To put the timeline into perspective, LeBron‘s deal with the 76ers expires in June 2027 if he decides not to use his opt-out option, or extends through June 2028 if he decides to play the optional second year. This could potentially open the door for James to leave the franchise as a free agent and seek to play one final year with the Warriors, enjoying that potential last season alongside Curry, though such a scenario remains highly complicated to pull off.

Curry’s career with the Warriors

The 38-year-old Curry has spent his entire 17-year NBA career with the Warriors. The contract will tie him through age 40 – and possibly to the end of his career – with the franchise that selected him seventh overall in the 2009 NBA Draft.

Curry, a 12-time All-Star and two-time MVP, was limited to 43 games in the 2025-26 season due to a right knee injury. His 30.9 minutes per game represented the third-lowest figure of his career, yet he still averaged 26.6 points and 4.7 assists per contest.

Curry holds the NBA record for 3-pointers made with 4,248 and ranks 19th on the all-time scoring list with 26,528 points. His legacy is indisputable. Now, following his contract extension, his future with the Warriors leaves no room for doubt either.

A notable detail in Curry’s career

The affection is mutual. Despite frequent complaints regarding the front office and the Warriors‘ poor attempts to adequately build around Curry while he remains elite, a key detail stands out: He has never been eligible for free agency in his career and, depending on when he plans to retire, might never be.

Former NBA All-Star Zach Randolph believes Westbrook may not be done with basketball despite announcing his retirement earlier this summer. Speaking on the Out the Mud Podcast, Randolph said Westbrook retired too early and argued that the veteran guard still has several productive years left in him. Randolph also named the Miami Heat as a team he would like to see Westbrook join if he decides to return.

“This man is supposed to be in the league for another 3-4 years at least. I’d like to see him with the Heat. Brodie got a lot left in him. I just saw his little brother yesterday Ray. He might be back,” Randolph said.

Westbrook could be a strong option for the Heat

For Miami to establish itself as a top team in the Eastern Conference this season, it still probably needs to add more talent. Either that or seeing players like Pelle Larsson, Ryan Conwell, and Nikola Jovic solidify rotation spots. However, as an attractive destination with a chance to contend if all goes well, the Heat acquired Tim Hardaway Jr. and Klay Thompson. Despite roster-building restrictions, this sufficiently addressed concerns about their shooting.

Westbrook does not provide much shooting. However, he is coming off a campaign in which he averaged 15.2 points, 6.7 assists, 5.4 rebounds, and 1.3 steals. He is a chaos engine who can still stuff the stat sheet.

Adding a new dynamic like that will help when Antetokounmpo is not on the floor or in the lineup. The two-time scoring champion would also allow the Heat to keep pressuring the rim without their new star forward in the game.

If Westbrook is going to return this NBA season, Miami is the ideal landing spot. He would not have a superstar or lead role as he did with the Kings, but he would undoubtedly be a valuable player coming off the bench.

Key takeaways

• Russell Westbrook is linked to the Miami Heat despite retiring in the 2026 offseason.
• Zach Randolph advocated for an NBA comeback during a podcast appearance.
• 15.2 points and 6.7 assists were averaged during his prior campaign.

Now, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania, Leonard has agreed to a two-year, $115 million contract extension with the franchise. The deal also includes a player option for the 2028-29 season.

The 35-year-old, two-time NBA champion now has a total of three years and $165 million on his Raptors deal. Ultimately, Kawhi got his way by joining the franchise he desired without receiving major discipline from the NBA, which received support from Steph Curry, and landing a massive contract that makes the league’s fine feel insignificant.

Leonard returns to Toronto

The Toronto Raptors acquired Kawhi Leonard from the LA Clippers during the offseason in exchange for a high-value package that included Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, two unprotected first-round picks (2031 and 2033), a 2027 first-round pick swap, and two future second-round picks (2030 and 2033).

Both sides agreed to the deal in June, but the NBA’s investigation into the Clippers’ salary cap circumvention scandal delayed its finalization for months. The transaction was completed shortly after Clippers owner Steve Ballmer issued a statement apologizing and taking full responsibility for his team’s violations regarding Leonard, which resulted in the most severe punishment in NBA history.

Kawhi Leonard returns to his former stage and will once again lead the Toronto Raptors in this second stint. He is remembered for leading the franchise to its first NBA title in the 2018-19 season, delivering one of the most epic single-season runs in sports history before returning home to Los Angeles.

Last season, Leonard averaged career highs of 27.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game in 65 contests, providing a decisive boost to Toronto’s title aspirations alongside Scottie Barnes, a key pillar of the team.

Key takeaways

• A two-year, $115 million extension was agreed upon with Toronto by Kawhi Leonard.
• Brandon Ingram and Gradey Dick were traded to Los Angeles in the transaction.
• Salary cap circumvention violations delayed finalization following an NBA investigation.

According to The Stein Line’s Jake Fischer, the Raptors and Leonard have engaged in advanced discussions and are closing in on an extension agreement, following the punishments made by the NBA.

While specific terms have not been finalized, Fischer notes that Leonard is eligible for a maximum two-year extension worth up to $126 million. Coming off the league’s high-profile investigation into his former team’s cap practices, securing a deal of that caliber would represent a massive financial commitment by Toronto for the veteran superstar.

As fellow stars like Stephen Curry weigh in on the league’s sanctions against the Los Angeles Clippers, anticipation builds over how the situation will develop, especially with potential legal issues looming in the background as Leonard takes the floor for Toronto.

Leonard’s past contract and highlights with the Raptors

Leonard’s original tenure with the Raptors remains one of the most iconic single-season runs in NBA history, defined by load-management precision, dominant play, and the franchise’s first NBA title.

At the time, Leonard was in the final guaranteed season of a five-year, $94.3 million contract originally signed with San Antonio in 2015, earning $23.1 million during his 2018–19 championship campaign. The deal featured a player option for the 2019–20 season.

Following the championship run, Leonard opted out of his $21.3 million option in July 2019 to test unrestricted free agency, ultimately choosing to sign with the Los Angeles Clippers.

“I wasn’t surprised [by the punishment]… at the end of the day, Adam Silver had a job to do, and I think the punishment makes sense, and we all move forward,” Curry said in an interview with CNBC.

As the Clippers continue to challenge the league over the sanctions, all eyes remain on how the situation unfolds, especially with team owner Steve Ballmer entangled in ongoing legal matters and the potential for further scrutiny into the franchise’s cap management.

Meanwhile, after Leonard broke his silence on the scandal, anticipation is building among Toronto Raptors fans ahead of his return to the city, where he is set to lead a squad featuring emerging talent Scottie Pippen Jr.

Leonard’s trade to Rockets happened with plenty of things going on

Despite previous trade rumors surrounding Leonard and the Houston Rockets—which reportedly stalled amid the legal headwinds surrounding Ballmer—the veteran star is set to rejoin the fold.

Additionally, reports indicate the Raptors are interested in extending Leonard’s tenure, signaling a desire to build a competitive project around Leonard and Pippen to propel Toronto back into Eastern Conference playoff contention.

Curry’s future reportedly decided

While the Warriors icon refrained from discussing his long-term plans publicly, a report from The Athletic‘s Marcus Thompson II shed light on Curry’s future in Golden State.

“Steph is re-signing. Steph isn’t going anywhere. He never was… He wants to play for the same team his whole career… He’d rather go down not winning with his guys than going somewhere else and winning,” Thompson II wrote.

Green enters his 15th NBA season with the franchise at 36 years old, placing him at the center of Golden State’s plans to transform the squad compared to last year. “This is going to be an interesting year, a transition year of sorts. And we’re going to do some things differently,” Kerr recently said regarding Green during an appearance on the Tom Tolbert Show.

“He and Steph obviously have this great rapport. We’re not going to take away from that, but he’s going to have to adapt a little bit, and it’s probably going to be a little frustrating at times. So, I’m going to need his patience, too. I’m going to just say that publicly because now, in reverse, he will read that or hear that and know that privately, that’s really what I’m telling him.”

Green remains just as important

Green will always serve as an emotional and vocal leader for the Warriors. His drive and passion have propelled the organization to conquer four championships over the past decade, and Kerr is the first to admit that without Draymond, the Warriors would not be who they are today.

“I will say forever — we don’t have a single championship without him,” Kerr said. “The guy is that impactful on winning.” Green is back with the Warriors on a new one-year, $27.6 million contract after initially opting out of his player option for the same amount.

How Kerr plans to utilize Green

While everyone agrees that Green remains a vital part of the team’s chances at success, his decision-making on the floor needs to improve. That is precisely where Kerr will look for a new version of the veteran forward.

“We have to cut back on the turnovers. I want him shooting the three, and when he’s open when he shoots the three, he may not be a super high percentage shooter, but possessions are good for us when he shoots because, number one, it’s worth three. Number two, we get offensive rebounds. Number three, there’s a flow to the game that has to happen that someone’s open, and they shoot it,” Kerr explained.

“He knows there’s going to be some changes, and he’s always going to be himself. There’s going to be good and bad that comes with that, and we’re okay with that.”

Now, George has given an update on his health as the new season quickly approaches. “I feel great again. I feel like I’ve turned a corner of dealing with injuries, and now kind of reestablishing myself and from a physical standpoint again,” said George, per John Kalaris of Locked on Celtics on X.

George has dealt with several injury setbacks over the last few years, dating back to his time with the Los Angeles Clippers. While he clearly has lost a step athletically even when fully healthy, Boston will still hope that he is able to stay on the floor as often as possible this year as he enters his late 30s.

What is expected of George

Although George has not shown his maximum potential in recent years due to injuries, a healthy version of the veteran forward can become one of the best players in the league, potentially offering even more than Brown provided for the Celtics.

George by and large outplayed Brown during the matchup between the Celtics and 76ers in the playoffs this past spring, knocking down a barrage of tough jumpers as Philadelphia battled back from a 3-1 deficit, and also providing some of his usual stout perimeter defense.

He remains an excellent perimeter defender, a high-level secondary playmaker, and one of the most efficient catch-and-shoot threats in the NBA. His ability to space the floor should fit seamlessly alongside Tatum, creating driving lanes and offensive flexibility that few teams can match.

The Celtics envision a version of George who plays more than 60 games, shoots over 40 percent from three-point range, and provides another experienced postseason option alongside Tatum.