NBA rumors

EuroLeague Teams Circling Killian Hayes as NBA Exit Looms

After five seasons without making a lasting impact in the NBA, Killian Hayes could be on his way back to Europe in hopes of reviving his career — potentially following in the footsteps of fellow French guard Théo Maledon.

In recent days, multiple European outlets have linked the 2020 NBA No. 7 overall pick to several Euroleague teams, including Paris Basketball, ASVEL, and Olympiacos.

Now, according to BuzzSport, both Maccabi Tel Aviv and Partizan Belgrade have also entered the mix, while the report confirms that talks are underway with Paris Basketball.

The French club is still searching for a replacement for T:J. Shorts and should have no trouble offering Hayes a significant role.

The 23-year-old French playmaker spent most of last season in the G League, where he averaged over 16 points, 5 rebounds, 7 assists, and 2 steals per game for the Long Island Nets.

In over 200 NBA games, Hayes posted career averages of 8.1 points and 5.2 assists, but struggled with efficiency, shooting just 38% from the field and 28% from three.

Aris B.C. Bolsters Backcourt with Sharpshooter Bryn Forbes

Aris B.C. has strengthened its backcourt with the signing of Bryn Forbes, a proven shooter who will be making his first appearance in European basketball. The news was first reported by Eurohoops.

After seven seasons in the NBA—where he averaged 8.8 points per game while shooting 41% from three and won a title with the Milwaukee Bucks in 2021—Forbes spent last season in Puerto Rico’s BSN.

Across 21 games split between Santeros de Aguada and Mets de Guaynabo, the former Michigan State standout averaged 19.5 points, 2.9 assists, and 1.2 steals per game, while hitting 47% of his shots from beyond the arc.

Josh Giddey seeks $30M annually, Bulls holding firm at $20M

Per Jake Fischer, Giddey’s camp is asking for $30 million per year, while the Bulls have only offered close to $20 million. This gap has slowed contract negotiations.

Though present in Las Vegas, Giddey didn’t appear at the team’s first two Summer League games, raising eyebrows about his involvement with the team.

With talks at an impasse, the Bulls must decide how far they’re willing to go to secure the Australian guard long-term.

Bradley Beal Reaches Buyout with Suns, Set to Join Clippers

Bradley Beal has reached a buyout agreement with the Phoenix Suns, ending his underwhelming stint in Arizona.

According to Shams Charania, the three-time All-Star will join the Los Angeles Clippers on a two-year, $11 million deal that includes a player option for the second season.

In Los Angeles, Beal is expected to slot in as the starting shooting guard alongside James Harden, Kawhi Leonard, John Collins, and Ivica Zubac.

Official: Saliou Niang joins Virtus Bologna on multi-year deal

Virtus Pallacanestro Bologna S.p.A. announced the arrival of Saliou Niang on a multi-year deal.

The talented forward was selected by the Cleveland Cavaliers with the 58th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.

Niang spent last season with Dolomiti Energia Trento, averaging 7.9 points and 5.2 rebounds in 20 minutes per game across both the LBA and EuroCup.

Niang’s first words as a Virtus player:
“I’m very happy to join Bologna and a club like Virtus. Starting this new chapter means a lot to me, and I can’t wait to share it with my new fans.”

Maccabi Tel Aviv Targeting Devonte’ Graham and Damian Jones

Maccabi Tel Aviv is looking to counter Hapoel’s recent moves by pursuing a pair of players with extensive NBA experience: point guard Devonte’ Graham and center Damian Jones, according to a report from One.co.il.

Graham, who holds NBA career averages of 11.1 points and 4.3 assists per game, had already been in talks with several European clubs last season. He ultimately played a handful of G League games with the South Bay Lakers.

Jones, an eight-year NBA veteran and two-time champion, spent the 2024/25 campaign in China with Zhejiang Chouzhou, averaging 16.8 points, 9 rebounds, 3.1 assists, and 2 blocks per game in the CBA.

 

Maccabi Tel Aviv Reportedly Targeting Former NBA Forward Alize Johnson

Maccabi Tel Aviv continues to focus on former NBA players to strengthen its frontcourt, with Alize Johnson emerging as the latest name on the club’s radar, according to IsraelHayom.

After spending five seasons in the NBA, Johnson has played the last two years overseas in Puerto Rico, South Korea, and Japan. The 29-year-old forward most recently suited up for the Kawasaki Brave Thunders in Japan’s B.League, where he averaged over 12 points, 9 rebounds, and 4 assists per game.

If signed, this would mark Johnson’s first professional experience in Europe, adding another versatile piece to Maccabi’s revamped rotation.

Charlotte Hornets sign Drew Peterson

Drew Peterson signs a two-way deal with the Charlotte Hornets.

Charles Lee of the Hornets coached Peterson in Boston two seasons ago.

Cleveland Cavaliers president Koby Altman signs an extension

Cleveland Cavaliers president Koby Altman signs an extension until summer 2030.

The Cavs’ front office, including Mike Gansey and Brandon Weems, received an extension following their rise to the top spot in the East.

Ryan Blackburn: I think Jonas Valanciunas plays for the Nuggets this year

Ryan Blackbyurn, American journalist following the Denver Nuggets, does not see an immediate future in Europe for Jonas Valanciunas.

«I think he plays for the Nuggets this year and then goes overseas next year. That’s my official prediction».

Nuggets make Valanciunas trade official, Saric heads to Kings

The Jonas Valanciunas–Dario Saric deal is now official, finalizing the last NBA trade since the moratorium ended. Valanciunas moves to the Denver Nuggets, while Saric goes to the Sacramento Kings.

Valanciunas had seriously considered a three-year, €12 million net offer from Panathinaikos, even completing a medical in Athens. But Denver insisted on acquiring him with the intent to keep him.

Four NBA teams show interest in trading for LeBron James

LeBron James is drawing trade interest from the Dallas Mavericks, Golden State Warriors, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Los Angeles Clippers, according to Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson. The teams reportedly reached out to his agent, Rich Paul.

Despite this, LeBron hasn’t asked for a trade. He holds a no-trade clause and just exercised his $52.6M player option for the 2025–26 season, giving him full control over his future.

Now 40, James played 70 games last season, averaging 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists. The four-time champion still commands respect and remains a major on-court presence.

Indiana Pacers extends Isaiah Jackson

Isaiah Jackson has signed a new three-year, $21 million deal with the Indiana Pacers.

The long, 207 centimetres, played five games this season in October averaging 7 points and 5.6 rebounds before rupturing his Achilles tendon.

Pelicans and Herb Jones Agree to Three-Year, $68M Extension

The New Orleans Pelicans and Herb Jones have agreed to a three-year, $68 million contract extension, according to Shams Charania.

The new deal will begin in the 2027/28 season and includes a player option for the 2029/30 campaign.

Jones appeared in only 20 games last season due to a right shoulder injury, but he is expected to be fully available for the start of the upcoming Training Camp.

Oklahoma City Thunder lock in Jalen Williams with max extension worth up to $287 million

The Oklahoma City Thunder have secured forward Jalen Williams with a five-year max extension that could reach approximately $287 million.

Beginning in the 2026–27 season, Williams will earn 25% of the salary cap—projected to be just over $41 million annually—for a base total of about $239.3 million over five years, according to CBA expert Yossi Gozlan. The full amount could increase significantly if Williams qualifies for escalators under the Derrick Rose Rule.

This is OKC’s third major extension in short order, following those of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (4 years, $285M) and Chet Holmgren (5 years, up to $250M).

With these new deals in place, the Thunder are projected to have a roster cost exceeding $500 million (including luxury tax) in 2026–27.

GM Sam Presti may eventually have to make tough decisions on the roster due to financial constraints, but he still possesses a deep war chest of future assets to navigate the challenge.

San Antonio Spurs sign Jordan McLaughlin

Free agent Jordan McLaughlin has signed a one-year, $3 million deal to return to the San Antonio Spurs.

McLaughlin spent last season with the Spurs and Kings, it would be the seventh NBA season for him.

Devin Booker Signs Two-Year, $145M Max Extension With Suns

Devin Booker has signed a two-year, $145 million max extension with the Phoenix Suns, setting a new NBA record with a $72.5 million annual salary.

Booker and Suns owner Mat Ishbia finalized the deal in Las Vegas, confirming the franchise’s commitment to its star as it aims to bounce back in the Western Conference after a challenging season.

Drafted 13th overall by Phoenix in 2015, Booker has spent his entire career with the Suns, becoming the franchise’s all-time leading scorer. The four-time NBA All-Star and two-time All-NBA selection has repeatedly expressed his desire to finish his career in Phoenix and to deliver a championship to the Suns. Last season, Booker averaged 25.6 points, a career-high 7.1 assists, and 4.1 rebounds, marking his seventh straight season averaging at least 25 points.

Fenerbahce reportedly targeting Chimezie Metu

According to Chema de Lucas, Fenerbahce is considering Chimezie Metu as a potential addition to bolster its frontcourt.

The forward/center is currently recovering from an Achilles injury and will be unavailable for the start of Training Camp.

In his first European season with Barcelona, Metu averaged 11 points and 4.9 rebounds in 20 minutes per game.

Oklahoma City Thunder extends Chet Holmgren

Chet Holmgren, star of the Oklahoma City Thunder and NBA champion, has agreed to a five-year, fully guaranteed rookie contract extension with a cap that could reach $250 million. ESPN reports.

After missing three months of the regular season, Holmgren returned in February and was instrumental in winning the NBA title. The Thunder’s next step will be the extension of Jalen Williams.

San Antonio Spurs acquire Kelly Olynyk in trade with Wizards

The Washington Wizards are trading Kelly Olynyk to the San Antonio Spurs for Malaki Branham, Blake Wesley, and a 2026 second-round pick. The pick will be the least favorable from Dallas, Philly, or OKC.

Olynyk adds shooting and experience (42% from three last season) to bolster depth behind Victor Wembanyama, after the signing of Luke Kornet. The Wizards continue their rebuild with two young players.

Branham and Wesley, both 22 and 2022 draftees, bring athleticism and future upside to Washington’s plans. Olynyk was previously acquired by the Wizards from New Orleans earlier this offseason.

Bradley Beal nearing Suns exit, eyeing multiple contenders

Bradley Beal’s time with the Phoenix Suns is reportedly coming to an end, as the two sides are negotiating a buyout on the remaining $110.8 million over two years of his current contract.

Once he becomes a free agent, Beal will be free to sign with any team, and according to The Athletic, he is currently considering three Western Conference teams — the Los Angeles Clippers, Los Angeles Lakers, and Golden State Warriors — along with one team from the East: the Milwaukee Bucks.

Both L.A. teams can offer him just over $5 million through different exception. Golden State remains in the mix, though their priority appears to be Al Horford, and the front office is still figuring out the future of Jonathan Kuminga.

The Bucks, meanwhile, can only offer Beal a veteran minimum deal, but they might present the most significant role for him. After a frustrating year in Phoenix that saw him benched at times, a chance to play a bigger role could weigh heavily in Beal’s decision.

On a recent podcast, Zach Lowe mentioned that the Clippers are considered favorites, with Beal potentially stepping into the spot vacated by Norman Powell.

Details of the new agreement between the Oklahoma City Thunder and Ajay Mitchell

The Oklahoma City Thunder have signed Ajay Mitchell to a new three-year contract.

It is a $8.7 million deal in total, fully guaranteed in the first year alone, in the second year certain $1.5 million,

For the 2027-2028 season there is a team option.

Details of the deal between Jordan Clarkson and the New York Knicks

Jordan Clarkson is officially a player of the New York Knicks after saying goodbye to the Utah Jazz.

A one-year, $3.6 million contract for him.

Details of the agreement between Myles Turner and the Milwaukee Bucks

Myles Turner has signed a four-year, $108.9 million contract with the Milwaukee Bucks.

After ten seasons with the Pacers, he will be a player-option and a 15% trade kicker in the fourth year of his contract.

Paolo Banchero, Orlando Magic agree to five-year, $239M extension

Paolo Banchero has signed a five-year, $239 million rookie max extension with the Orlando Magic, which could reach $287 million if he earns All-NBA or MVP honors. The deal includes a player option for the 2030-31 season.

After averaging 25.9 points and 7.5 rebounds, Banchero became only the third Magic player to average over 25 points, joining McGrady and O’Neal. Post All-Star, he raised his game to 29 points per game.

Magic president Jeff Weltman praised Banchero’s talent and commitment to the franchise and the city of Orlando, as the team aims to become a contender in the Eastern Conference.

Clippers, Jazz and Heat agree on three-team trade: Powell to Miami

The Los Angeles Clippers, Utah Jazz, and Miami Heat have agreed on a three-team trade, ESPN reports. Norman Powell will join the Miami Heat, while John Collins heads to the Clippers.

Kevin Love and Kyle Anderson are moving to the Utah Jazz, along with a 2027 Clippers second-round pick. This move gives the Clippers enhanced frontcourt flexibility for the upcoming season.

The Heat acquire Powell at a steal, adding valuable scoring depth, while the Clippers continue to strengthen with targeted moves in a busy offseason.

Are the Boston Celtics the favorites to sign Damian Lillard?

According to NBA insider Scott Berges, the Boston Celtics are the favorites to sign Damian Lillard. The former Portland Trail Blazers star is coming off a difficult period, first suffering a torn Achilles tendon in April, and then parting ways with the Milwaukee Bucks. Lillard, now a free agent, is reportedly in contact with the Boston Celtics to seek an agreement. Born in 1990, he will face a long recovery, but could prove to be a key piece for the 2026–2027 season, when the Celtics are expected to return as a full-fledged contender (especially considering that Jayson Tatum is also expected to miss significant time).

Boston could bet on Lillard’s class and experience, while for the former Bucks star, having another shot at winning a championship could prove to be a decisive factor in his decision.

Nuggets reportedly determined to keep Jonas Valanciunas

 The door remains open for Jonas Valanciunas’ potential return to the EuroLeague, with the Lithuanian center hoping to sign a lucrative three-year deal with Panathinaikos. However, there’s a significant roadblock: Valanciunas still has two years left on his contract with the Denver Nuggets — the second year being non-guaranteed — and cannot join another club without the Nuggets’ approval.

According to Marc Stein, the Nuggets are determined to keep the Lithuanian big man. Denver had been targeting Valanciunas for some time. It’s worth noting that the deal with Sacramento wouldn’t have been possible if the Nuggets hadn’t previously traded Michael Porter Jr. to the Brooklyn Nets to create the necessary space.

This situation is as unusual as it is complex. It’s really rare for a player on a contending NBA team to seek a return to Europe. In Sasha Vezenkov’s case, a similar move was made possible thanks to the Raptors’ willingness to let him go. Denver, on the other hand, has no intention of parting with Valanciunas.

After being eliminated by the eventual champion Oklahoma City Thunder in the second round of the playoffs, Nikola Jokic reportedly urged Denver’s front office to improve the 2nd unit — following the blueprint of the teams that reached the NBA Finals. The acquisitions of Valanciunas, Bruce Brown, and Tim Hardaway Jr. align with that strategy, with Denver placing much of its limited resources into securing Valanciunas.

While the Nuggets’ stance is more than justifiable, a standoff would be counterproductive for all involved. The trade is expected to be officially completed today, but it remains to be seen who — the player or the franchise — will blink first.

Moe Wagner re-signs with Orlando Magic on one-year, $5M deal

Free agent Moe Wagner has signed a one-year, $5 million contract to stay with the Orlando Magic, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania. Wagner’s agent, Jason Glushon, finalized the deal with Magic executives on Friday.

Before suffering an ACL tear in December, Wagner was having a career year, averaging 12.9 points while shooting 36% from three. In 30 games, he emerged as a Sixth Man of the Year candidate.

Wagner led the NBA in points per game among players averaging under 20 minutes. The new deal will allow him to continue his recovery and contribute to the Magic’s development.

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