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Pacific Notes: Lendeborg, Suns Lineup, Doncic, Sanders, Strus
Warriors rookie Yaxel Lendeborg is already reshaping the franchise, averaging 21.5 points, 7 rebounds and 3.9 assists while posting a 37‑point outburst against the Clippers, prompting owner Joe Lacob to hail the pick as a draft success. Meanwhile, the Suns sit 1‑4 and could revamp their lineup, with suggestions to insert Oso Ighodaro at center. Luka Doncic’s technical foul against Miami is overturned, leaving him with just one tech this season. Clippers guard Kobe Sanders, now on a standard contract, posts 11 points, 3.1 rebounds and 2.1 assists, emphasizing adaptability. Max Strus returns from a plantar fascia injury, adds 11 points and six assists in a loss to Toronto, staying calm amid the Clippers’ sixth straight defeat.
Knicks Notes: Bridges, Hart, Rotation, Clarkson
Mikal Bridges is under fire early in the season, sitting out fourth quarters in three games—including the Knicks' win over the Nets—after posting just 6.1 points on 30.8% shooting (1-for-7 vs. Brooklyn). Coach Mike Brown urges him to rely on his elite speed and improve cutting, rebounding and paint attacks. Meanwhile, Josh Hart misses Wednesday’s Chicago game with ankle soreness after starting all seven outings. Brown also plans to expand the bench rotation, having used 12 players against the Nets. Re‑signed veteran Jordan Clarkson proves valuable, scoring 18 points vs. Chicago and delivering a spark off the bench.
Hoops Rumors Chat Transcript: 11/4/2026
Hoops Rumors hosted a live chat today at 1:00 pm Central time (2:00 pm Eastern). Click here to read the transcript. I’ll be away next Wednesday, so my next live chat will take place on November 18.
Atlantic Notes: Robinson, Tatum, Traore, Minott, Philon
Mitchell Robinson, signed to a three‑year, $47 million deal, posts a career‑low 4.5 rebounds and a -16 point per 100 possessions rating in Boston’s first two weeks, prompting coach Joe Mazzulla to note his role has shifted away from the rim. Meanwhile, Jayson Tatum will sit out Wednesday’s game against Milwaukee after seven straight starts, averaging 27.0 points and 7.9 assists. Knicks rookie Nolan Traoré shines, shooting 47.5% overall and 50% from three, while Nets forward Josh Minott struggles for minutes after a new two‑year, $9 million contract. Sixers rookie Labaron Philon Jr. has logged only 34 minutes in five games, focusing on learning from veterans.
Hornets’ Kon Knueppel Cleared For Season Debut
Hornets sharpshooter Kon Knueppel, the 2025 fourth‑overall pick who averaged 18.5 points and led the league in made threes as a rookie, is cleared to make his season debut Wednesday in Brooklyn after missing the first eight games with a left hamstring strain. Coach Charles Lee hinted at a return earlier this week, and Knueppel’s presence could revive Charlotte’s anemic offense, which sits at a league‑worst 100.4 rating after a 91‑point loss that left the team 3‑5. Meanwhile, forward Grant Williams is sent to the G League, hinting his own hamstring issues are improving.
Warriors Withholding Payments To Kristaps Porzingis
The Golden State Warriors are withholding $218,341 per game from Kristaps Porzingis' $20 million 2026‑27 salary, claiming he hasn't rendered services under his contract. The 31‑year‑old big man, out indefinitely with an undisclosed health issue and possibly contemplating retirement, hasn't been at the team's facilities since early October. While the salary hold doesn’t affect trade possibilities, the Warriors had hoped he’d be more present despite his diagnosed POTS condition. Sources say the club may label his absence a failure to render services, keeping trade talks alive.
Dalen Terry Signs Two-Year Deal With Thunder
Free‑agent wing Dalen Terry (2022 18th‑overall pick) signs a two‑year, likely non‑guaranteed veteran‑minimum deal with the Oklahoma City Thunder, per ESPN's Shams Charania. Terry, who bounced from Golden State’s Exhibit 9 to the G League’s Santa Cruz Warriors, spent three‑plus seasons with Chicago, a brief stint in New Orleans, and finished 2025/26 on the Philadelphia 76ers roster. He averages 3.5 points, 1.7 rebounds and 1.2 assists in 11.2 minutes. The Thunder, dealing with injuries to Jalen Williams, Cason Wallace and Chet Holmgren, add Terry for depth and to fill a 15‑man roster spot, preserving flexibility for two‑way contracts and potential hardship signings.
International Notes: I. Mobley, Hayes, Hart, Rwanda
Isaiah Mobley, the older brother of Cavs star Evan Mobley, signs with Spain's Basquet Manresa, a club that starts 0-6 in Liga ACB and hopes his 6'9" forward experience will spark a turnaround. Former lottery pick Killian Hayes nearly joins Maccabi Tel Aviv, but the deal falls through as the Israeli side seeks a guard replacement for the injured Gabriel Lundberg. Knicks forward Josh Hart hints at a possible future role with Italy's Napoli Basket, which is eyeing EuroLeague or NBA Europe participation. Meanwhile, the NBA responds to U.S. senators’ concerns over its partnership with Rwanda, citing the removal of the Armée Patriotique Rwandaise from the BAL as a policy shift.
Chris Boucher Joining Shanghai Sharks
Former NBA forward/center Chris Boucher, 33, signs with the CBA's Shanghai Sharks, replacing JaVale McGee. Boucher, a two‑time champion with the Warriors and Raptors and a 2021 Sixth Man contender, posted career highs of 13.6 PPG and 6.7 RPG in 2021. After a brief 2025 stint with Boston and a waiver by Utah, he becomes Shanghai’s third import. The Sharks, riding a 7‑1 start, already feature NBA guards D’Angelo Russell (18.0 PPG, 5.7 APG) and Brandon Goodwin (19.6 PPG, 8.6 APG).
Norchad Omier Backs Out Of Wolves Deal, Will Sign With Cavs
The Minnesota Timberwolves are set to sign 25‑year‑old forward Norchad Omier to a two‑way contract, sources tell HoopsHype. Omier, the first NBA player born in Nicaragua, went undrafted in 2025, split his rookie year between the G League's Cleveland Charge and the San Diego Clippers, and logged six NBA games with Los Angeles. He averaged 18.3 points, 11.4 rebounds and 59.2% shooting in 38 G League contests, earning All‑Rookie honors. After a strong Summer League showing (10.6 PPG, 9.8 RPG), he signed a training‑camp deal with Minnesota, was waived, and will now replace injured two‑way guard Enrique Freeman. The deal lets Omier play up to 46 regular‑season games, but he won’t be playoff‑eligible unless promoted to the main roster.
Injury Notes: Leonard, Pacers, Caruso, Embiid, Aldama
Kawhi Leonard’s knee swelling looks better as the Raptors announce he’s finished treatment and will start a return‑to‑play process, with an update due in a week. The Pacers, who used only six players Monday, list center Ivica Zubac (ankle), forward Obi Toppin (lumbar) and Kelly Oubre Jr. (calf) as questionable for Wednesday’s matchup. Guard Alex Caruso is cleared for the Thunder after missing three games with a right‑ankle sprain. Joel Embiid remains on a minutes restriction due to right foot plantar fasciitis despite not being on the injury report. Finally, Santi Aldama, who’s been recovering from knee surgery, is a questionable debut for the Mavericks on Wednesday.
Southeast Notes: Giannis, Portis, Conwell, Knueppel, Suggs
After a blowout loss to the Lakers, the Miami Heat remain optimistic as Giannis Antetokounmpo and veteran Bobby Portis say the roster can still contend if it finds its groove. Coach Erik Spoelstra is extending rookie guard Ryan Conwell’s minutes, though he reverted to Dru Smith in the second half. Meanwhile, the Hornets’ Kon Knueppel is set for his season debut against Brooklyn after a hamstring strain, and Orlando’s Jalen Suggs sits out with a knee bone bruise, leaving his participation on the upcoming road trip uncertain.
Lakers Notes: Offense, Doncic, Giannis, Carr, LaRavia, Williams
The Lakers rank second in league scoring (122.5 ppg) and top the offensive rating chart after eight games, but coach J.J. Redick warns the unit still needs time to click. Luka Dončić leads the charge, averaging 38.3 points overall and 43.4 in his last five outings, highlighted by a 42‑point, 138‑117 win over the Heat. Rookie Cameron Carr is soaking up lessons from Dončić and Austin Reaves, while Jake LaRavia earns more minutes in the starting mix. Ziaire Williams returned from foot soreness, logging 15 minutes and nine points.
Central Notes: Thompson, Joe, Watson, Tyson, Buzelis
Detroit Pistons forward Ausar Thompson is being urged to fire more mid‑range jumpers – 17 of his 36 shots in the first six games come from that spot – and coach J.B. Bickerstaff says it’s a make‑or‑miss chance that opponents can’t block. Thompson, fresh off a five‑year, $155 million extension, now shoots 55.8% overall, though his scoring sits at a modest 9.7 points per game. The Pistons head into a showdown with the Philadelphia 76ers on Wednesday without reserve guard Isaiah Joe, who’s out with a hip contusion. Meanwhile, Cleveland’s Peyton Watson and Jaylon Tyson miss Wednesday’s game, and Chicago’s Matas Buzelis struggles at 13 points, 40% shooting after the Bulls exercised his $7.6 million fourth‑year option.
Northwest Notes: Henderson, Thunder, Jokic, Adelman
Portland gave Scoot Henderson a surprise start after Ja Morant’s hamstring injury, keeping Jrue Holiday’s minutes low and thrusting the former G League Ignite star into a "sink‑or‑swim" stretch that could determine his future as the Blazers’ point guard. Coaches stress simplicity and defense, urging Henderson to play his natural game. Meanwhile, the Oklahoma City Thunder rebounded from a two‑game skid—despite missing Jalen Williams, Chet Holmgren and Cason Wallace—with Shai Gilgeous‑Alexander dropping a season‑high 43 in a 117‑112 win over Cleveland. In Denver, Nikola Jokic’s early‑season numbers dip, prompting concerns as his offensive rating falls, while head coach David Adelman adds sister Kathy as a special assistant.
And-Ones: NBA Cup, 2027 Draft, Rookies, More
Mavericks star Kyrie Irving admits he was initially lukewarm about the NBA Cup but now sees its early‑season pressure as a boost for teams, noting the Knicks and Spurs’ recent runs. Dallas opens West Group A with a 1‑0 upset of the Rockets. Meanwhile, Bleacher Report’s Jonathan Wasserman omits several underclassmen from his 2027 mock draft, keeping Kansas forward Tyran Stokes at No. 1, followed by Jordan Smith Jr. and Caleb Holt. John Hollinger praises the 2026 rookie class for early impact, while ESPN’s Zach Kram warns injuries could reshape the title and MVP races. Bobby Marks lists 12 “Contract Year All‑Stars” – role players like Ryan Rollins, Paul Reed, RJ Barrett and Moussa Diabate – poised for big free‑agency deals.
Dumonts Buy Adelson’s Stake In Mavs, Assume Majority Control
The Dumont family—Patrick and Sivan—have acquired Miriam Adelson’s shares, giving them a 69% majority stake in the Dallas Mavericks, according to ESPN’s Tim MacMahon. While Mark Cuban retained a 27% stake after selling his controlling interest in 2023, the Dumonts can purchase an additional 20% from him by 2027 at a $3.5 billion valuation, potentially boosting their ownership to 89%. The duo plans to build a new, world‑class arena on a 104‑acre north‑Dallas site, as the current American Airlines Center lease ends in 2031. With the Dumonts and Cuban together holding 96% of the team, the sale still awaits NBA Board approval, and the Mavericks are valued at roughly $6.35 billion.
Pacific Notes: D. Green, Bassey, J. Green, Cardwell, Acuff
Warriors forward Draymond Green receives his first ejection of the season (31st career) after a scuffle with Dillon Brooks during the Warriors' 116-113 win over Phoenix on Nov. 3, sparking a comeback that extended Golden State's streak to five. Charles Bassey steps up, delivering 25 points and 18 rebounds over two games to bolster a center rotation reshaped by Kristaps Porzingis' illness. Meanwhile, Suns guard Jalen Green struggles with shooting (6‑of‑20 FG, 0‑of‑6 3‑pt) despite posting 8 assists and rebounds, and Phoenix's most-used lineup posts a -29.9 net rating. Sacramento Kings lose Dylan Cardwell to a calf strain but snap a six‑game skid as rookie guard Darius Acuff Jr. scores 25 in a win over Dallas, earning praise from coach Doug Christie and teammate Malik Monk.
Recap Of 2027/28 Rookie Scale Option Decisions
The November 2 deadline for 2027/28 rookie‑scale options saw most teams pick up third‑ and fourth‑year deals, but 11 players had their options declined, including Hornets forward Tidjane Salaun ($10.45 M) and Jazz guard Isaiah Collier ($4.99 M). Waived players Cody Williams, Dalton Knecht and DaRon Holmes had their options voided, with three landing two‑way contracts elsewhere. The trend reflects growing league caution around tax and apron penalties, especially for teams like the Timberwolves, Thunder, Nuggets and Knicks. Players whose options were exercised are now locked into guaranteed salaries and won’t hit free agency until at least 2028.
Central Notes: Pacers, Watson, Thomas, Claxton
The Indiana Pacers were forced to finish a game against Atlanta with just six healthy players after ruling out forwards Obi Toppin and Kelly Oubre Jr., marking the fewest players used in a game since the Lakers did it in 1948. Jarace Walker logged a staggering 45 minutes as Indiana fell 108-104, with coach Rick Carlisle praising the effort of Walker, Jalen Slawson, Jay Huff, Quenton Jackson, Braden Smith and Kobe Brown. Meanwhile, the Cavs missed Peyton Watson with a hamstring issue, giving rookie Meleek Thomas a career‑high 17 points in a loss to OKC, and Bulls center Nic Claxton is edging closer to his season debut after a hamstring setback. Indiana may soon add a 15th roster spot under the cap, easing the shortage.
Nuggets Pass On 2027/28 Option For DaRon Holmes
The Denver Nuggets have declined the 2027/28 rookie scale option on former No. 22 pick DaRon Holmes, turning him into an unrestricted free agent next summer. Holmes missed his entire rookie year after a Summer League Achilles tear and logged limited minutes in 2025/26 (3.7 points, 1.4 rebounds in 8.4 minutes across 25 games). Although he posted 20.8 points and 8.0 rebounds in 22 G League games, the emergence of rookie Trevon Brazile and Denver’s tight cap—being the only team over the second apron—made the decision unsurprising. Holmes retains Bird rights, but the Nuggets cannot exceed his declined salary if they re‑sign him, and any new team faces the same restriction.
Hornets Decline Tidjane Salaun’s 2027/28 Option
The Charlotte Hornets have declined the fourth‑year $10.45 million option on former No. 6 overall pick Tidjane Salaun for the 2027/28 season, confirming earlier speculation. Salaun, a 6‑foot‑10 French forward drafted by Jeff Peterson in 2024, has struggled to secure a consistent rotation role, averaging 5.9 points, 4.3 rebounds and shooting .392/.330/.694 over 103 games. With the option dropped, he becomes an unrestricted free agent in the 2027 offseason; the Hornets retain his Bird rights but cannot exceed the declined option’s salary, opening the door for other teams to offer more. The move reflects Charlotte’s favorable cap outlook and Salaun’s modest impact this year.
2026/27 NBA Two-Way Contract Conversions
Hoops Rumors tracks every two-way contract conversion in the 2026/27 NBA season. By the preseason deadline of Oct. 19, ten players—including Malachi Smith (Raptors), Leaky Black (Kings) and Tacko Fall (Sixers)—saw their Exhibit 10 deals upgraded to two-way contracts after impressing in training camp. The list is final for the season, as conversions end once the regular season starts. On the opposite side, the Raptors have already turned Jaden Bradley into a standard roster player on a four‑year, $9.26 million deal using the non‑taxpayer mid‑level exception. The article updates these moves through April 11, 2027.
Atlantic Notes: Barlow, Wade, Bridges, Celtics, Nets
Sixers forward Dominick Barlow, diagnosed with a lumbar spine bone stress response on Oct. 19, meets a specialist Tuesday and could return soon after showing “explosive” minutes against Chicago, according to coach Nick Nurse. Veteran Dean Wade, praised by Tyrese Maxey for his versatile defense and cutting, is emerging as a key glue guy in Philadelphia’s frontcourt. Meanwhile, NY Knicks’ Mikal Bridges is labeled the most expendable high‑paid player in a cap‑space debate, and the Celtics have reinstated Neemias Queta and starter Hugo Gonzalez while rotating Mitchell Robinson and Jordan Walsh. The Nets slump to 1‑5, prompting calls for higher accountability and a clearer path to future optimism.
Hornets’ Lee: Knueppel’s Return ‘Right Around The Corner’
Hornets wing Kon Knueppel, who missed eight straight games after a left hamstring strain in an off‑season workout, is poised to return soon. Coach Charles Lee says his comeback is “right around the corner,” though no date is set; Rod Boone speculates Wednesday in Brooklyn or Friday against Boston. The 21‑year‑old Rookie of the Year runner‑up logged 18.5 points, 5.3 rebounds and 3.4 assists in 81 games last season and led the league in made threes. Charlotte, now 3‑4, exercised Knueppel’s 2027‑28 option at $11 M.
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