Joe Mazzulla (Boston Celtics)
August 2025
he Boston Celtics have extended head coach Joe Mazzulla’s contract after he led the team to the 2024 NBA Championship and averaged over 60 wins per season in his first three years. Mazzulla holds a 182-64 regular-season record and 33-17 playoff record, with four Eastern Conference Coach of the Month awards. He became the youngest head coach to win the Finals since 1969.
Jayson Tatum (Boston Celtics)
August 2025
Jayson Tatum, recovering from May surgery on a ruptured right Achilles tendon, was spotted at the New England Patriots’ joint training camp without a boot or brace. He is expected to miss most or all of next NBA season. Tatum stood on the sidelines, chatting with Patriots players and Washington QB Jayden Daniels. He has been seen in Celtics facility workouts, with Brad Stevens confirming steady progress but no rushed return timeline.
Relive the most miraculous moments of the season! From the regular season to the playoffs, here are the top 10 incredible comebacks that defined the year.
Luka Doncic (Los Angeles Lakers)
August 2025
Doncic signed a three-year, $165M max extension with the Lakers, urging the team to act fast in building a contender after tasting the Finals. The 26-year-old told Rob Pelinka and JJ Redick he’s not willing to wait for a rebuild, aiming to end the Lakers’ five-year title drought and usher in a new championship era.
Myles Turner, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jaren Jackson Jr., James Harden, LeBron James
August 2025
NBA free agency has opened with major signings including Myles Turner joining the Bucks, Harden re-signing with the Clippers, and max deals for SGA and JJJ. LeBron opted into a $52.6M deal with the Lakers. Turner leaves Indiana for Milwaukee after their East Finals run. Harden stays in LA on a two-year deal, while OKC and Memphis lock in their stars. LeBron’s player option keeps him in LA through at least one more season.
Chicago Bulls
August 2025
The Chicago Bulls have reintroduced their legendary black jerseys with red pinstripes as their 2025-26 Statement Edition uniform—first worn during the iconic 1995-96 championship season. Hall of Famer Dennis Rodman helped unveil the design, calling it “legendary.” Last seen in 2013, the jersey pays homage to the Jordan era and will be worn during select games this season. The design also inspired the White Sox’s 2025 City Connect uniform.
De’Aaron Fox (San Antonio Spurs)
August 2025
San Antonio have extended De’Aaron Fox despite drafting Dylan Harper at No. 2 overall, creating a potential long-term point guard logjam due to both players’ poor off-ball shooting. Fox arrived in a high-profile trade and signaled willingness to stay, prompting the extension despite his declining 3-point shooting (31% last season). Spurs passed on alternatives like 2026 cap space, banking on short-term gains and playoff contention with Victor Wembanyama.
Damian Lillard (Portland Trail Blazers)
August 2025
Damian Lillard has been appointed general manager of Weber State’s basketball program, returning to his alma mater to guide the team while rehabbing from a torn Achilles. Announced at the Weber State Alumni Classic, Lillard will support player development and team operations. The 9-time All-Star recently signed a new 3-year deal with Portland and remains sidelined for 2025–26.
Luka Doncic (Los Angeles Lakers)
August 2025
Luka Doncic has signed a three-year, $165 million max extension with the Lakers, locking in through 2028 with a player option. He bypassed 2026 free agency, solidifying his future with the franchise. After averaging 28.2 points last season, Doncic expressed his desire to win titles and earn his place among Laker greats. The Slovenian star has shown renewed commitment through offseason conditioning and helped recruit Ayton and Smart.
Mikal Bridges (New York Knicks)
July 2025
Mikal Bridges has signed a four-year, $150 million extension with the Knicks, choosing long-term team stability over a potential $156M+ deal by waiting until 2026. He remains under contract through the 2028-29 season. Bridges, acquired for five first-round picks, took a slightly reduced deal to keep cap flexibility. Known as the NBA’s “iron man,” he’s played every game of his career and averaged 17.6 PPG last season while anchoring the Knicks’ defense.
