Anthony Edwards (Minnesota Timberwolves)
April 2025 (Game 1 vs Lakers)
The NBA has fined Anthony Edwards $50,000 for inappropriate language and an obscene gesture toward a fan during Minnesota’s Game 1 win over the Lakers.
Edwards reacted to heckling aimed at Rudy Gobert by defending his teammate and ending the exchange with a lewd gesture. The fine was announced by league operations president Byron Spruell.
Darius Garland (Cleveland Cavaliers)
November 2025
Garland debuted after toe surgery recovery, posting 8 points and 4 assists in 26 minutes during a 132-121 win. Cleveland’s offensive flow improved, easing Donovan Mitchell’s creation load and restoring role clarity for Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen. Kenny Atkinson reintroduced primary-initiation sets early, then layered two-guard actions as rhythm built. Expect managed minutes and progressive usage: more Spain pick-and-roll, Chicago actions, and early-clock threes to maintain spacing while monitoring responsiveness post-surgery.
Joel Embiid, Paul George
March 2026
Joel Embiid returned from a 13-game absence with 35 points and Paul George also came back in Philadelphia’s 157-137 win over Chicago. Their immediate impact gave the 76ers a major lift as they try to improve playoff positioning in the East. Embiid had been out with a right oblique strain, while George returned after a 25-game suspension. Both produced efficiently on the night, helping Philadelphia strengthen its push out of the play-in places despite a season still shaped heavily by availability issues.
Philadelphia 76ers
September 2025
The 76ers opened training camp without Quentin Grimes as his contract standoff continues. The guard has until October 1 to accept an $8.7m qualifying offer with no-trade clause, or hold out for a longer deal while his future remains unresolved. Embiid urged focus on “who’s here,” stressing it’s a business and players must prioritise families. He downplayed the distraction, recalling past holdouts by Simmons and Harden. Grimes, coming off a breakout season, remains central but negotiations risk disrupting preseason preparations.
Jalen Williams (Oklahoma City Thunder)
May 2025
The NBA fined Jalen Williams $25,000 for wearing a shirt with profane language during his postgame media appearance following OKC’s Game 7 win over Denver.
Williams wore a shirt that read “F— art, let’s dance” after scoring 24 points in the decisive win. The league issued the fine for violating media attire rules.
Jamal Murray (Denver Nuggets)
April 2025
Jamal Murray missed his fifth straight game with a strained right hamstring, and coach Michael Malone says it’s no longer day-to-day, raising doubts over his playoff availability.
Malone clarified Murray is genuinely hurt, not being rested, and the uncertainty is growing. With the Nuggets sliding to fourth place, they need other players, including veteran Russell Westbrook, to step up amid Murray’s absence.
Luka Doncic (Los Angeles Lakers) v Jaden McDaniels (Minnesota Timberwolves)
April 2025 (First-Round Playoffs)
NBA’s Last Two Minute Report revealed referees missed a foul on Luka Doncic by Jaden McDaniels with 33 seconds left in Game 4; Lakers lost 116-113.
Doncic was tripped but no foul was called; Lakers later turned over the ball and Minnesota sealed the win with free throws. Lakers now trail 1-3 in the series.
Giannis Antetokounmpo (Milwaukee Bucks)
October 2025
Trade speculation around Antetokounmpo has reignited after reports linked Milwaukee to talks with the Knicks. ESPN’s Bobby Marks identified the Houston Rockets as a dark horse suitor, citing their draft capital and willingness to include young guard Amen Thompson.
The Bucks are under no pressure to trade their 30-year-old star but could explore moves if they struggle this season. Antetokounmpo, who averaged 30.4 points and 11.9 rebounds last year, could also push the process by requesting a trade.
Jared McCain (Philadelphia 76ers)
September 2025
Rookie guard Jared McCain has suffered a UCL tear in his thumb, casting doubt on his availability for the new season after last year’s meniscus injury. His absence could open minutes for VJ Edgecombe and heighten urgency in Quentin Grimes’ contract talks. McCain averaged 15.3 points last year before injury cut his campaign short. With Embiid and George also rehabbing knee surgeries, Philadelphia’s depth faces early strain. Media day will shed light on timelines, but the Sixers’ guard rotation may require reshuffling.
Kevin Durant
February 2026
Durant said he asked to remain under consideration for the 2028 U.S. Olympic team and does not want a ceremonial spot. He cited his attachment to Team USA, acknowledged age and competition, and said selection should be performance-based; he remains a high-level scorer this season.
