inside the nba

The Golden State Warriors are emerging as a realistic free agent destination for LeBron James, with insider Tim Kawakami reporting the team can offer the $15.1 million non-taxpayer mid-level exception without any roster moves. James holds an expiring $52.6 million contract and will enter unrestricted free agency, though his camp has asked insiders to pause speculation. The Lakers, Cavaliers and Knicks are also involved, but Golden State's roster need and salary flexibility give them a distinct edge in the conversation.

NBA insider Jake Fischer has raised doubts about Kyrie Irving's future with the Dallas Mavericks, suggesting contending teams will make trade calls this offseason. Irving missed all of the 2025-26 season recovering from a torn left ACL but recently said he is close to full health. With Masai Ujiri now running the franchise and Cooper Flagg as the centerpiece, Dallas faces a difficult decision about how Irving fits their long-term plans heading into the 2026-27 season.

Michael Jordan drew attention during a recent trip to Marbella, Spain, after showing off a slimmer look while spending time with wife Yvette Prieto. According to a Daily Mail source, concerns about his appearance in recent years motivated him to focus more on exercise and healthier eating habits. The source also downplayed speculation about weight-loss drugs.

Mitch Johnson strongly defended Stephon Castle after the young Spurs guard was left off the NBA All-Defensive Teams. Johnson praised Castle’s impact on both ends of the court and predicted the 21-year-old would use the disappointment as motivation next season. The Spurs coach also capped off an impressive year personally, finishing third in NBA Coach of the Year voting after leading San Antonio to a remarkable 62-win season and a deep playoff run against the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Donovan Mitchell's future has become a major talking point following Oklahoma City's playoff exit and Cleveland's disappointing finish in the Eastern Conference Finals. A proposed trade sending Mitchell to the Thunder for Jalen Williams and Cason Wallace has generated discussion because of Mitchell's upcoming extension eligibility and Oklahoma City's desire to remain among the league's elite contenders.

Victor Wembanyama added another major achievement to his growing NBA resume after becoming the lone unanimous selection on the 2025-26 All-Defensive First Team. The Spurs superstar followed his unanimous Defensive Player of the Year victory with another dominant defensive honor, backed by league-leading block numbers and elite defensive metrics. Joined by Chet Holmgren, Rudy Gobert, Ausar Thompson and Derrick White on the First Team, Wembanyama continues to establish himself as the defining defensive force of the league’s next generation.

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce enjoyed a courtside date at Game 3 of the NBA Eastern Conference Finals. Kelce delighted Swift and the crowd by chugging a beer to the beat of her song 'Ready for it?', showcasing their playful chemistry. The engaged couple sported coordinated, stylish outfits while cheering for the Cavaliers.

The New York Knicks received troubling news ahead of the NBA Finals after center Mitchell Robinson suffered a broken right pinky finger with no timetable for recovery. Robinson has been a key defensive presence and rebounder throughout New York’s playoff run, appearing in 13 postseason games while anchoring the second unit. His potential absence creates major matchup concerns against either Chet Holmgren and Isaiah Hartenstein of the Thunder or Victor Wembanyama of the Spurs.

Jalen Brunson was named Eastern Conference Finals MVP after leading the New York Knicks to a dominant four-game sweep of the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Knicks clinched their first NBA Finals appearance since 1999 with a commanding 130-93 victory in Game 4, fueled by balanced scoring, strong defense, and Brunson’s calm leadership at point guard. Karl-Anthony Towns, OG Anunoby, and the Knicks’ deep bench also played major roles throughout the series as New York extended its playoff winning streak to 11 games and moved one step closer to the franchise’s first NBA title since 1973.

Kendrick Perkins became involved in a heated moment during an AAU basketball game in Oklahoma after he said one of his players was allegedly attacked after the matchup. Videos showed Perkins being held back near the court. Speaking later on “The Pat McAfee Show,” the former NBA player said he was protecting his team. Police confirmed no charges were filed after the incident.

The Lakers are exploring ways to strengthen their roster around Luka Doncic after a disappointing playoff run, and Malik Monk has emerged as a realistic trade target. A proposed deal involving Rui Hachimura and Dalton Knecht could give Sacramento younger assets while allowing Los Angeles to add proven bench scoring. Monk’s contract remains manageable, and his previous Lakers experience adds to the appeal. While not a blockbuster move, league insiders believe the addition could improve the Lakers’ depth, offensive consistency, and long-term roster balance heading into next season.

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce are reportedly prioritizing their intimate relationship, opting for private moments over a large social circle. Despite wedding rumors causing stress and leaks, the couple continues to enjoy their time together, recently seen at an NBA game. Swift also released a new song for 'Toy Story 5'.

Alex Caruso briefly left Game 5 of the Western Conference Finals after rolling his right ankle against the San Antonio Spurs. The veteran guard exited in the second quarter before returning later in the half, easing concerns for the Oklahoma City Thunder. Caruso had already scored 14 points before the injury scare and continued to provide the defensive intensity that has been crucial throughout Oklahoma City’s playoff run.

The New York Knicks received a significant boost ahead of the 2026 NBA Finals as Mitchell Robinson remains determined to play despite undergoing surgery for a fractured pinkie finger on his right hand. While no official timetable has been announced, reports indicate both Robinson and the organization are hopeful he can return for Game 1. His injury remains somewhat mysterious, with team officials confirming it did not occur during a game or practice.

Stephen Curry, the NBA legend, has been a force to be reckoned with on the field for close to two decades now as he has inspired billions. With Stephen Curry having just turned 38 years old, there has been constant chatter about his retirement and now, NBA insider Brett Siegel has weighed in on it.

Jason Kidd’s name is once again connected to the Luka Dončić trade after new comments from Shams Charania. While Kidd denied being directly involved, reports now suggest he supported the deal at some level. With Kidd gone, Masai Ujiri is expected to fully reshape the Mavericks. Dallas now hopes Cooper Flagg can help the franchise move forward after months of criticism and major roster changes.

The New York Knicks are heading to the NBA Finals for the first time since 1999 after completing a commanding four-game sweep of the Cleveland Cavaliers in the Eastern Conference Finals. Powered by Karl-Anthony Towns, OG Anunoby, and a deep supporting cast, the Knicks dominated Game 4 with a 130-93 victory in Cleveland. New York overwhelmed the Cavaliers with rebounding, ball movement, and three-point shooting while Cleveland struggled with turnovers and inconsistent offense outside Donovan Mitchell.

Isaiah Hartenstein's future has become a topic of discussion after Oklahoma City's playoff exit and looming salary-cap concerns. With a $28.5 million team option approaching and major extensions set to increase the Thunder's payroll, rival teams are watching closely. The Lakers appear to be a natural fit because of their need for size, rebounding, and interior defense alongside Luka Doncic.

Kyrie Irving’s future with the Dallas Mavericks has become increasingly uncertain following major front office changes and growing league-wide trade interest. The Toronto Raptors have emerged as a possible landing spot in a proposed blockbuster deal involving Immanuel Quickley, Gradey Dick and multiple first-round picks. While Dallas still values Irving’s leadership and scoring ability, the franchise is also balancing long-term plans centered around Cooper Flagg and future roster flexibility.

Tech billionaire Vinod Khosla is reportedly preparing a blockbuster bid to acquire the Seattle Seahawks. This move could see him give up on his minority stake in the San Francisco 49ers. The Seahawks are valued at over $10 billion. It places Khosla among other prominent investors vying for the NFL franchise, others being Aditya Mittal and Wyc Grousbeck. The sale process is reportedly progressing rapidly according to an NFL insider, and a deal could happen in August.

Julian Champagnie delivered a huge first-half performance for the San Antonio Spurs in Game 5 against the Oklahoma City Thunder, scoring 17 points before halftime. The former undrafted forward has become a valuable two-way contributor for San Antonio this season, averaging 11.1 points and 5.8 rebounds. Champagnie’s rise from uncertainty to playoff contributor reflects the persistence, work ethic, and resilience that continue to shape his growing NBA career.

Travis Kelce defended his viral courtside beer chug at Cavaliers-Knicks Game 3, pushing back on brother Jason's "classless" label on their New Heights podcast. Sources close to Taylor Swift say she was never embarrassed, describing her reaction as playful rather than mortified. George Kittle also backed Kelce on social media. The moment generated an estimated $9.4 million in brand value. Kelce also revealed a minority ownership stake in MLB's Cleveland Guardians, reinforcing his deep ties to the city where he grew up.

Carmen Electra recently opened up about her short-lived marriage to Dennis Rodman, revealing that constant partying and drinking ultimately led to their breakup. Speaking on the “Legally Goff” podcast, Electra described the relationship as passionate but emotionally exhausting, even though she insisted it was built on “real love.” Their whirlwind romance, marriage in Las Vegas, and eventual divorce in 1999 became one of the most memorable celebrity relationships of the late 1990s.

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce sparked another viral moment after attending the Cavaliers vs Knicks playoff game courtside. While Kelce’s beer-chugging celebration energized fans, online controversy exploded after viewers noticed ESPN commentators repeatedly avoided mentioning Swift by name during the broadcast. Swifties slammed the coverage as disrespectful, while others defended the network for focusing on sports instead of celebrity attention during the nationally televised NBA playoff game.

Jaylin Williams delivered a timely playoff performance for the Thunder during Game 3 against the Spurs, scoring 11 points in just 10 minutes while helping support Shai Gilgeous-Alexander offensively. His strong outing became even more important after Jalen Williams was ruled out because of a recurring left hamstring injury. Jaylin’s efficient shooting and steady energy have quietly strengthened Oklahoma City’s depth throughout the postseason as the Thunder continue fighting for another NBA Finals appearance.

Travis Kelce found himself at the center of fresh controversy after a viral video showed him chugging a beer during the Cavaliers-Knicks playoff game while Taylor Swift watched courtside. Critics attempted to connect the moment to the ongoing Dianna Russini-Mike Vrabel controversy, sparking debate online. Supporters argued Kelce was simply enjoying a sporting event, while the incident highlighted the intense scrutiny surrounding every public appearance by the Chiefs star and Swift.

The Minnesota Timberwolves are once again being linked to Giannis Antetokounmpo after insider Darren Wolfson revealed there has been mutual interest since February. Minnesota reportedly wants another superstar beside Anthony Edwards after falling short in the playoffs. Meanwhile, fresh Kyrie Irving rumors involving the Milwaukee Bucks could also influence Giannis’ future and shape one of the NBA’s biggest offseason storylines.

Travis Kelce’s move into ownership with the Cleveland Guardians marks another step in his expanding post-field ambitions while still active in the NFL. The Cleveland native described the investment as deeply personal, rooted in childhood ties to the city and its baseball legacy. It reflects a growing trend of elite athletes taking stakes in professional franchises as Kelce transitions toward life beyond football.

Victor Wembanyama is expected to play for the San Antonio Spurs against the Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference Finals. His dominant Game 1 performance, where he showcased exceptional scoring, rebounding, and rim protection, was crucial in the Spurs' double-overtime victory. His availability is a major factor in this highly anticipated playoff series.