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Kings keep losing, but lack of progress makes slow start harder to take
At 1‑8 with seven double‑digit defeats, the Sacramento Kings’ rebuilding woes deepen as rookie Nique Clifford (6.3 minutes, 1.6 points) and first‑round pick Alex Karaban (1.4 points) see scant minutes. With veterans Darius Acuff Jr., Zach LaVine, Domantas Sabonis and Malik Monk commanding the lineup, the team struggles to give its potential building blocks meaningful roles, raising questions about its long‑term plan. With 73 games left, the Kings must adjust roles to develop talent and halt the losing streak.
Warriors’ Steph Curry passes LeBron James with another 40-point night
Steph Curry drops 41 points in the Warriors' overtime victory over the Magic, marking his 16th 40‑point game since turning 35 and eclipsing LeBron James for the NBA record. The 38‑year‑old shot 13‑of‑19 from the floor, added six rebounds (including his 5,000th career rebound) and six assists, and sealed the win with a clutch scoop shot in the final minute. Curry now averages 31.3 points in just under 30 minutes per game, as coach Steve Kerr carefully manages his minutes after last season's knee injury.
Blazers’ Micah Nori: ‘We gave in a little bit’ in loss to Spurs
Portland coach Micah Nori admits his team "gave in" to frustration during a 125-103 home defeat by the San Antonio Spurs on Saturday. The Blazers struggled to contain Victor Wembanyama, who dropped 29 points on 9‑of‑13 shooting, and a spate of fouls in the second quarter ignited a 10‑point free‑throw run that fueled a 45‑point third‑quarter surge by the Spurs. Deni Avdija led Portland with 15 points, but defensive lapses and inability to stop Wembanyama beyond the restricted area widened the gap, leaving the Blazers down 35 points entering the fourth.
Wizards hit season scoring low, but Brian Keefe defends effort
The Washington Wizards endured a historic scoring night, managing just 75 points in a 114-75 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder on Saturday—the lowest total of the 2026 NBA season. Coach Brian Keefe defended his players’ effort, citing missed shots and the strain of fighting a defense that crowded the paint. He emphasized that the team attempted to attack the interior and kick out to shooters, but an off night led to a 39-point defeat that highlights broader defensive and offensive concerns.
Dribbles: Cavs run short on help, energy in another loss to Knicks
The Cleveland Cavaliers fall 109-97 at home to the New York Knicks on Nov. 8, 2026, squandering a competitive first half as they miss key pieces. Without starting center Jarrett Allen, guard Sam Merrill and forward Jaylon Tyson, the Cavs rely on Donovan Mitchell’s 37 points—21 in the fourth—but lack support, with Evan Mobley and Peyton Watson each scoring only 12. Knicks star Jalen Brunson drops 31, while Karl‑Anthony Towns adds 29 and 13 rebounds. The loss highlights Cleveland’s shorthanded roster and waning energy after a Friday win over Philadelphia, underscoring the need for a quicker return to health as the schedule intensifies.
Cavs bring back Riley Minix on two-way deal, waive Tristan Enaruna
The Cleveland Cavaliers re-sign forward Riley Minix to a two‑way contract, freeing up a roster spot by waiving Tristan Enaruna. Minix, 26, had been released after a brief six‑minute cameo this season but returns after averaging 18.5 points, 6.1 rebounds and 2.8 assists in 24 games with the G League Charge. Enaruna, 25, appeared in three games this year, posting 2.3 points and 1.7 rebounds. The move gives the Cavs a familiar player who has proven productive at the developmental level while keeping Norchad Omier on the roster.
Lakers list Luka Doncic as questionable for Pistons matchup
Luka Doncic, fresh off a career‑high 53‑point night that powered the Lakers to a 4th straight win over Portland, is listed as questionable for Sunday’s road game against Detroit because of back tightness, according to Lakers On SI’s Ryan Ward. His status could dictate the Lakers’ offensive outlook in what’s expected to be a tough Pistons matchup. While Walker Kessler continues to provide interior support, the team will need Doncic’s scoring rhythm or a secondary spark to sustain momentum. Fans will be watching his health update closely before the game.
NBA Transactions: Saturday, November 7
The latest NBA transaction roundup highlights several G‑League moves and contract changes. The Cavaliers end Riley Minix’s two‑way deal, make Khalifa Diop a recall, and sign Norchad Omier to a two‑way contract. The Lakers assign Bronny James and recall Adou Thiero, while the Bulls shuffle Nicolas Claxton in and out of the Windy City Bulls. The Celtics, Hornets, Grizzlies, and others also made multiple G‑League assignments and recalls, and the Raptors sign Kevin McCullar Jr. to a two‑way deal.
Mavericks responding to Dusty May’s approach: ‘He’s speaking life into you’
Mavericks forward Daniel Gafford praises new coach Dusty May, saying the Michigan champion brings energy, accountability and encouragement to a franchise still reeling from the Luka Doncic trade and sweeping roster changes. Gafford notes May’s “speaking life” to players, highlighting early positive signs such as P.J. Washington’s uptick, Walter Clayton Jr.’s two‑way contract impact, renewed confidence from Gafford, and Zaccharie Risacher’s defensive hustle. Veteran buy‑in signals May could steady a team that needs consistent contributions as the schedule toughens.
Jazz’s Darryn Peterson shows progress, welcomes push from Will Hardy
Rookie guard Darryn Peterson shows signs of growth despite the Utah Jazz’s seventh straight loss, dropping to 1-8. He posted 21 points, five assists, three blocks and two steals against the Dallas Mavericks, scoring 12 consecutive points and shooting 6-of-12. Peterson says he’s getting more comfortable, ignoring external criticism, and embraces coach Will Hardy’s tough love after being benched in a recent game. He views the coaching push as essential for long‑term improvement and hopes the next outing brings the team its first win.
Heat’s problems go beyond slow start, with numbers pointing to both ends
The Miami Heat sit at 3‑6 despite having Giannis Antetokounmpo and Bam Adebayo, and stats reveal problems on both ends. Analyst Ethan J. Skolskip notes the team uses pick‑and‑rolls far less than they should—ranked last in frequency but sixth in efficiency—highlighting Davion Mitchell and Pelle Larsson as effective contributors. Meanwhile, Miami is 28th in points per possession on spot‑up jumpers, a puzzling shortfall for shooters like Klay Thompson, Bobby Portis Jr., Tim Hardaway Jr., and Andrew Wiggins. Defensively, the Heat allow the second‑most 3‑point attempts while ranking 29th in opponents’ 3‑point percentage. Upcoming games vs. the Kings, Jazz, Cavs and Pistons could turn the tide if the Heat adjust their offense and limit easy shots.
How to watch Cavs vs. Knicks: TV channel, live stream and start time
The Cleveland Cavaliers host the defending champion New York Knicks Saturday, Nov. 7, at 8 p.m. ET in Rocket Arena. The game streams locally on DAZN for Cavs fans and appears on NBA TV, while Knicks viewers can watch on MSG Network or its DAZN feed. After a 119‑95 win over Philadelphia, Cleveland looks to extend its ball‑movement and defense, led by Donovan Mitchell’s 23 points, eight assists and seven rebounds against the Sixers. The matchup marks the first clash with New York after a sweep in last season’s Eastern Conference finals, offering a key test for the Cavs’ early‑season form.
Sixers’ Joel Embiid searches for answers: ‘Nothing is going in’
Joel Embiid admits his game is off after a six‑point, 0‑for‑9 shooting night in Philadelphia’s 119‑95 loss at Cleveland on Friday. The six‑time All‑Star is struggling from deep, now 3‑of‑28 (10.7%) on threes and has missed 17 straight attempts since Oct. 22. He cites limited reps from injuries over the past two seasons and a new load‑management routine as factors hurting his rhythm. Embiid says he’ll review film and adjust his jump and hand placement, but acknowledges the frustration of “nothing is going in.”
Bulls have a lineup problem, with no easy fix in sight
The Chicago Bulls are wrestling with a lineup dilemma as first‑year coach Tiago Splitter tries to blend young talent into a cohesive unit. Their most‑used starting five ranks fourth in the league for offensive efficiency, being outscored by 20.3 points per 100 possessions over 92 minutes through Friday. Players like Josh Giddey, Matas Buzelis and Norman Powell are still sorting out roles, while rookie Caleb Wilson faces benching for poor shot selection and body language. The anticipated return of Nic Claxton promises rim protection and screening, and defender‑prospect Noa Essengue shows early promise. The team must define clear responsibilities before any real progress emerges.
Cavs have another chance to show progress against familiar problem in Knicks
The Cavaliers eye a crucial test against the New York Knicks on Nov. 7 at Rocket Arena, fresh off a convincing win over Philadelphia. Coach Kenny Atkinson wants to prove the team can sustain the ball‑movement, defense and resilience that helped them bounce back after a lead slipped against the Sixys, with Donovan Mitchell directing the offense even when his shot falters. The Knicks, who famously swept Cleveland in last year’s Eastern Conference finals and blew a Christmas‑Day lead, provide a familiar hurdle. Key factors include rookie defender Peyton Watson’s perimeter pressure and the health of center Jarrett Allen, whose matchup with Karl‑Anthony Towns could ease the load on Evan Mobley. Repeating the Sixers’ performance would signal real progress for the young squad.
Man arrested on suspicion of stalking at LeBron James’ Los Angeles home
A man is arrested on suspicion of stalking at LeBron James’ Los Angeles home after security cameras spot him on the property Friday night. Police say the suspect claimed he was James’ son, but he never entered the house. The incident occurs while James is away, playing for the Philadelphia Sixers in a 119-95 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers, where he scores eight points and commits six turnovers. Details such as the suspect’s name remain undisclosed.
Kings could have options on Domantas Sabonis, but need reason to deal
The Sacramento Kings aren’t in a hurry to move Domantas Sabonis, despite rumors of a clash with rookie guard Darius Acuff Jr. – sources say the two communicate well. Instead, the franchise is weighing whether Sabonis fits its future plans and if any trade would bring assets that align with their rebuild, especially around Acuff. Analyst Logan Struck lists four possible landing spots – Charlotte, Toronto, Brooklyn and Memphis – with the Hornets topping his list, and even mentions the Suns as a wild‑card. Potential returns range from role players like Grayson Allen to draft picks, but salary and roster fit remain major hurdles. Any deal must also help the Kings improve their defense and overall team direction.
Donovan Mitchell gives Cavs what they need, even when shot won’t cooperate
Donovan Mitchell leads the Cavaliers to a 119-95 rout of the Philadelphia 76ers despite making only one three‑pointer. He tallies 23 points, eight assists and seven rebounds, sparking the offense early and distributing the ball to teammates like Evan Mobley (22), Mario Hezonja (15) and Meleek Thomas (12). Mitchell’s playmaking keeps the Cavs moving when his outside shot stalls, and his late three and free‑throw pushes the lead to 91-74. The performance shows Mitchell can dictate games beyond scoring, even with four turnovers.
Lakers’ Walker Kessler giving Luka Doncic help that fits
Luka Doncic’s 53‑point outburst on Friday highlighted the Lakers’ reliance on his scoring, but center Walker Kessler is emerging as the complementary piece the team needs. Acquired for two first‑round picks, Kessler posted 16 points, 12 rebounds and a 70% field‑goal rate, marking his fourth double‑double in five games. His ability to finish near the rim and protect the rim lets Doncic focus on playmaking while Kessler handles rebounds, steals and second‑chance points. The Lakers survived a 30% three‑point night thanks to 15 steals, 28 transition points off turnovers, and a dominant rebounding battle, securing their fourth straight win and pushing Doncic’s average to 40.1.
Cavs finally give a big lead the protection it deserves
The Cleveland Cavaliers finally showcase a new mentality for protecting big leads, edging the Philadelphia 76ers 112‑104 on Friday to improve to 5‑4. Coach Kenny Atkinson praised the team's aggressive finish, highlighting Donovan Mitchell’s clutch play, Evan Mobley’s interior dominance with Jarrett Allen out, and James Harden’s scoring support. Defensive spark comes from returning rookie Peyton Watson, who limited Tyrese Maxey and helped safeguard the paint. Atkinson stressed the need for consistent effort against opponent runs, while Mitchell emphasized the team’s championship focus. The win sets up a test against the defending‑champion Knicks on Saturday.
LeBron James after nightmare return against Cavs: ‘I sure wasn’t good at all’
LeBron James admits his comeback night against the Cleveland Cavaliers was a disaster, scoring just eight points on 3‑of‑12 shooting and committing six turnovers in a lopsided loss for the Sixers. The 41‑year‑old said, “I sure wasn’t good at all,” and acknowledged he struggled to find a rhythm. Fellow MVP Joel Embiid went cold, missing all nine shots and finishing with six points, leaving the former champions with only 14 points on 3‑of‑21 shooting. James remains optimistic about the team’s early‑season outlook despite the setback.
Mavericks get reminder they can help Cooper Flagg, too
The Dallas Mavericks proved they have more than one answer for offensive woes on Friday, as P.J. Washington poured in 26 points (six of 10 from three) in a 112-100 win over Utah, while Morez Johnson Jr. contributed 13 points and a massive 17 rebounds. Rookie Santi Aldama, back from knee surgery, added eight points and nine rebounds in just 13 minutes, helping Dallas outscore the Jazz by 17 during his stint. Cooper Flagg finished with a solid stat line—21 points, 10 rebounds, seven assists—but his slow start (2‑of‑8 in the first half) highlighted the need for additional firepower. The victory ends a two‑game skid and improves the Mavericks to 2‑0 in NBA Cup play, underscoring the value of Washington, Johnson and Aldama as complementary pieces to Flagg.
Pelicans need to get Zion Williamson, Trey Murphy more involved
The New Orleans Pelicans’ 115-109 loss to Minnesota exposed a glaring offensive flaw: Zion Williamson and Trey Murphy III combined for just 17 shots, despite being the team’s top scorers. Williamson managed 13 points on 10 attempts, taking only three shots before halftime, while Murphy added 10 points on seven tries. The imbalance left rookie Jeremiah Fears to carry the load with 24 points, and veteran Dejounte Murray went 3-for-11. Minnesota also seized 17 offensive rebounds, and New Orleans suffered when Herb Jones fouled out late, surrendering 38 points in the fourth. Coach Jamahl Mosley must find a way to involve his stars more consistently.
Lakers’ Luka Doncic reaches 40-point average, draws Wilt Chamberlain comparisons
Luka Doncic rockets to a 40.1‑point season average after a 53‑point, 124‑118 win over Portland, putting him in rare company with Wilt Chamberlain—who remains the only player with a higher nine‑game total (361 points) and the last to average 40 all season (1962‑63). The Lakers, now led by Doncic following LeBron James’ exit, have logged six 40‑plus games and two 50‑plus outings in just nine appearances, anchoring the league’s top‑ranked offense. Coaches label him the current MVP, but sustaining the historic pace remains an open question.
Celtics’ Jayson Tatum is giving defenses more than his scoring to worry about
Jayson Tatum erupts for 34 points in three quarters and dishes out nine assists as the Celtics crush the Hornets 119-80. Beyond the scoring, analysts note his new‑level court vision—reading defenses, finding open teammates, and making the right decisions—making him a far tougher focal point. Tatum also snaps an early‑season three‑point slump, hitting 5‑of‑8 from deep, while Derrick White and Payton Pritchard improve their shooting. Boston improves to 2‑0 in NBA Cup play, proving Tatum’s playmaking may be the Celtics’ most reliable weapon.
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