Tag: NBA News

Nikola Jokic confirms plans to sign next contract

By: @OOSSports

Nikola Jokic confirms when he plans to sign next NBA contract

Nikola Jokic has no plans to leave the Denver Nuggets.

He simply intends to wait a little longer before signing his next contract.

Following a FIBA World Cup qualifying game on Monday, Jokic confirmed he expects to delay signing a long-term extension until the 2027 offseason, when he becomes eligible for an even larger deal.

“My idea and desire is to stay in Denver. I’ll probably sign next year,” Jokic told reporters in Serbian, as reported in an article written by ESPN’s Dave McMenamin. “… My desire is to play the rest of my life in Denver.”

The financial incentive is significant.

Jokic is eligible to sign a four-year, $278 million extension this offseason. However, by waiting until 2027, the three-time MVP would qualify for a five-year supermax contract worth approximately $359.5 million that also includes a no-trade clause. He also holds a player option worth $62.8 million for the 2027-28 season.

This is not the first time Jokic has delayed an extension.

He also passed on signing a three-year, $200 million extension in 2025, reinforcing that his decision is driven by timing rather than uncertainty about his future in Denver.

On the court, Jokic continues to perform at an elite level.

The 30-year-old averaged 27.7 points, 12.9 rebounds, and 10.7 assists across 65 games last season while finishing second in NBA MVP voting. He has now finished first or second in MVP voting in six consecutive seasons dating back to 2021.

Despite Jokic’s sustained brilliance, the Nuggets have not returned to the Western Conference Finals since capturing the franchise’s first NBA championship in 2023.

Denver now enters another pivotal season with its superstar committed to the organization, even if his next contract remains two years away.

For the Nuggets, Jokic’s latest comments provide reassurance that the face of the franchise still intends to spend the rest of his career in Denver.

Thanks for reading. Be sure to check out the latest episode of the OutOfSightSports YouTube series, where we grade the top 10 picks from the NBA’s recent 2026 NBA Draft and break down which teams landed the biggest stars, steals, and surprises. ⬇️ 🎥 🚀

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Kendrick Perkins puts Celtics on blast after trading Jaylen Brown to the 76ers

By: @OOSSports

Brad Stevens and Kendrick Perkins

Kendrick Perkins did not hold back after the Boston Celtics traded Jaylen Brown to the Philadelphia 76ers.

The blockbuster deal sent Brown to one of Boston’s biggest rivals in exchange for Paul George, two first-round picks, and two second-round picks. While many questioned the value the Celtics received for a player widely regarded as one of the NBA’s elite wings, Perkins took issue with both the return and the destination.

Speaking on ESPN’s SportsCenter, the former Celtics center delivered a scathing assessment of the move.

“This is a sad day for the Boston Celtics. As a former Celtic, I do not approve of this trade. If you’re going to trade a guy that’s a top 10 player, you at least have to get back a guy that’s a top 15 or top 20 player. Paul George is not that. Paul George hasn’t been consistently good since I was skinny.

“When you talk about Jaylen Brown, your former Finals MVP, Conference Finals MVP, NBA champion, coming off his best season statistically, leading this team and defeating all the odds – they were supposed to be in tanking mode! Instead, they finished second in the East.

“I know things didn’t work out like they were supposed to, as far as the way the playoff run ended, but at the end of the day, if you’re Brad Stevens, he had already lost. He lost the Giannis sweepstakes to the Miami Heat.

“If you’re going to jump off the porch and make Jaylen Brown available, you gotta make sure you pencil in that deal. This is nothing but sloppy seconds in my opinion. The way I see it, he just basically handed the Philadelphia 76ers a trip to the NBA Finals next year.”

Perkins doubled down later in the segment, arguing the trade ranks among the league’s worst.

“It was one of the dumbest trades in NBA history. Mike Gansey, Jameer Nelson, and Bob Myers should be serving breakfast in bed to Brad Stevens.

“I’m talking about cut-up fruit, seedless grapes, mint tea, toast with strawberry jam because they finessed him.”

The trade marks a dramatic shift for the Celtics, who moved on from a former Finals MVP and one of the league’s premier two-way stars. Boston now turns its attention toward maximizing the draft assets it acquired while hoping Paul George can help keep the franchise in contention.

Meanwhile, Philadelphia adds another marquee talent as it looks to strengthen its position atop the Eastern Conference.

Thanks for reading. Be sure to check out the latest episode of the OutOfSightSports YouTube series, where we grade the top 10 picks from the NBA’s recent 2026 NBA Draft and break down which teams landed the biggest stars, steals, and surprises.

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Spurs land Tobias Harris on two-year deal after NBA Finals run

By: @OOSSports

Tobias Harris Spurs

The San Antonio Spurs are adding another veteran forward to their Western Conference contender.

Free agent Tobias Harris has agreed to a two-year, $31 million contract with the Spurs, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania on X, formerly Twitter.

Harris leaves the Detroit Pistons after helping the franchise complete a major turnaround over the past two seasons. The 33-year-old forward averaged 13.5 points and 5.6 rebounds per game during his second stint in Detroit, giving one of the NBA’s youngest teams a steady veteran presence, scoring, and frontcourt spacing.

Detroit climbed from one of the league’s worst teams two years ago to a 60-win season and its first playoff advancement since 2008. Harris played an important role in that rise after signing a two-year, $52 million deal with the Pistons in 2024 following six seasons with the Philadelphia 76ers.

Now, he joins a Spurs team coming off its first NBA Finals appearance since 2014.

San Antonio has been active in shaping its forward rotation this offseason. The Spurs reached a new three-year deal with Julian Champagnie and a one-year agreement with Harrison Barnes before adding Harris to the mix.

For the Spurs, Harris brings size, shooting, playoff experience, and a low-maintenance scoring profile around a young core led by Victor Wembanyama. His ability to stretch the floor should help San Antonio maintain spacing while adding another proven veteran to a roster built to compete immediately.

For Harris, the move offers a chance to join a rising contender after helping stabilize Detroit’s rebuild.

The Spurs already proved they could reach the league’s biggest stage. Adding Harris gives them another reliable piece as they look to finish the job next season.

Thanks for reading. Be sure to check out the latest episode of the OutOfSightSports YouTube series, where we grade the top 10 picks from the NBA’s recent 2026 NBA Draft and break down which teams landed the biggest stars, steals, and surprises.

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Jazz add veteran center Jusuf Nurkic in savvy free agency move

By: @OOSSports

Jusif Nurkic

The Utah Jazz wasted little time making an impactful move as NBA free agency opened.

According to a report from ESPN’s Shams Charania on X, formerly Twitter, veteran center Jusuf Nurkic has agreed to a two-year, $22 million contract with the Utah Jazz.

“Free agent center Jusuf Nurkic intends to sign a two-year, $22 million contract to return to the Utah Jazz, sources tell ESPN. Nurkic thrived in coach Will Hardy’s system and was excited about the Jazz new look roster. Utah officials worked through the deal with Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul on Monday.”

The signing gives Utah an experienced frontcourt presence as the franchise continues building toward long-term contention in the Western Conference.

Nurkic brings far more than size.

The veteran center has established himself as one of the league’s stronger interior players, capable of controlling the glass, setting punishing screens, protecting the rim, and facilitating offense as a passer from the high post. His versatility should immediately provide stability for a young Jazz roster that continues to develop around its emerging core.

The addition also eases pressure on Utah’s younger guards by giving them a dependable frontcourt partner capable of creating offense through screens, dribble handoffs, and interior passing.

Financially, the contract reflects a calculated investment.

At an average annual value of $11 million, the Jazz strengthen one of their biggest areas of need without sacrificing future financial flexibility. The two-year structure allows Utah to remain aggressive in future offseasons while adding a proven veteran who can contribute immediately.

The move also reinforces the organization’s commitment to balancing youth with experience. Rather than relying exclusively on player development, Utah has added a battle-tested veteran capable of helping establish the physical identity that successful playoff teams often possess.

While Nurkic may not generate the same headlines as some of free agency’s biggest names, his arrival addresses a clear roster need and gives the Jazz another dependable contributor entering the 2026-27 season.

For a team looking to climb the Western Conference standings, it represents a practical move that could benefit them on both ends of the floor.

Thanks for reading. Make sure to check out the latest episode of the OutOfSightSports YouTube series, where we break down the five most intriguing prospects in the 2026 NBA Draft! ⬇️ 🚀

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Big 12 sets modern-era record with 13 players picked in 2026 NBA Draft

By: @OOSSports

Big 12 NBA Draft 2026 record

The Big 12 did more than show up during the 2026 NBA Draft.

It owned the night.

The conference produced 13 total selections, the most by any league in this year’s draft and the Big 12’s highest single-draft total of the modern era, which dates back to 1966.

ESPN Insights highlighted the milestone on X, formerly Twitter, noting that the Big 12 had 13 players selected in the 2026 NBA Draft.

The record-breaking showing reflected the conference’s rising place in college basketball’s talent hierarchy. Programs such as BYU, Kansas, and Houston helped headline the surge, with the league dominating the first round and carrying that momentum into the second night in Brooklyn.

The top of the draft made the statement even louder.

AJ Dybantsa went No. 1 overall out of BYU, while Kansas star Darryn Peterson followed at No. 2. That gave the Big 12 the top two picks in the same draft, a historic marker for a conference that has steadily turned into one of college basketball’s strongest NBA pipelines.

The depth mattered just as much as the star power.

The Big 12’s 13 selections surpassed its previous high of 10, proving this was not just about two elite prospects carrying the conference’s reputation. The league sent talent throughout the draft, reinforcing the strength of its player development, recruiting reach, and competitive weekly grind.

For years, the Big 12 has carried a reputation as one of the toughest basketball conferences in America. The 2026 NBA Draft put hard numbers behind that claim.

The Barclays Center stage became a showcase for how much the league has grown. From top-end franchise prospects to later-round developmental bets, the Big 12 placed fingerprints across the entire draft board.

This class may be remembered as a turning point.

With Dybantsa and Peterson leading the way, the Big 12 did not just break a record. It sent a clear message about where NBA-ready talent is being built.

Thanks for reading. Make sure to check out the latest episode of the OutOfSightSports YouTube series, where we break down the five most intriguing prospects in the 2026 NBA Draft.

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Grizzlies rule Ja Morant out for season with left elbow injury

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3/25/2026

oossports

Ja Morant ruled out for season.

The Memphis Grizzlies will be without their star guard for the remainder of the season.

The team announced that Ja Morant has been ruled out due to an ulnar collateral ligament sprain in his left elbow, ending his 2026 campaign.

Morant appeared in just 20 games this season, continuing a stretch of limited availability over the past few years.

Injury timeline and treatment

Morant suffered the injury on Jan. 21 during his second game back from a prior absence caused by calf soreness.

Following ongoing discomfort, he recently underwent further evaluation. Medical specialists recommended a platelet-rich plasma injection to aid ligament healing.

The expectation is that Morant will be ready for the start of the 2026-27 season.

Continued availability concerns

The latest setback adds to a growing list of interruptions in Morant’s career.

Over the past three seasons, he has played only 79 total games due to a combination of injuries and suspensions. The extended absences have limited his impact on the court despite his All-Star level talent.

Grizzlies outlook moving forward

Memphis explored trade possibilities involving Morant ahead of the February deadline but reportedly found little interest.

Morant still has two years remaining on his contract, valued at $87 million, as the organization evaluates its long-term direction.

With their franchise guard sidelined, the Grizzlies will now turn their focus toward the offseason and roster decisions moving into next year.

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Celtics star Jaylen Brown throws shade at Thunder’s foul-baiting style

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3/13/2026

oossports

Boston Celtics star Jaylen Brown did not hold back when discussing what he views as a growing issue in the modern NBA.

Speaking about the Oklahoma City Thunder’s style of play, Brown openly criticized the way some teams draw fouls, suggesting it detracts from the game itself.

“We commend players for playing the game the right way, but we give the benefit to those who necessarily are trying to manipulate the game to their advantage.”

“I just don’t think that’s basketball… All the foul baiting, I think, it’s whatever for me.”

Brown’s comments reflect a broader debate around foul-drawing tactics in today’s NBA. Offensive players increasingly look to initiate contact or exaggerate minimal contact to earn trips to the free-throw line, a strategy that has drawn criticism from players, coaches and fans alike.

The Oklahoma City Thunder have become one of the most efficient teams in the league at getting to the free-throw line, largely due to their aggressive attacking style and ability to pressure defenders in isolation and pick-and-roll situations.

Brown’s remarks suggest that not all players view that approach as a positive development for the sport.

The Celtics forward, a five-time All-Star and the 2024 NBA Finals MVP, has built his reputation on physical two-way play. Known for his downhill drives and defensive versatility, Brown has often emphasized playing through contact rather than seeking whistles.

His comments add another layer to the ongoing conversation around officiating, foul calls and how offensive players create advantages in the modern NBA.

As the league continues evolving toward more perimeter-oriented play, the balance between skillful shot creation and foul manipulation remains a point of contention among players across the league.

Thanks for reading. Make sure to check out the latest episode of the OutOfSightSports YouTube series below for more coverage, analysis, and the latest updates across the sports world.

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76ers star Tyrese Maxey out at least 3 weeks with finger tendon injury

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3/11/2026

oossports

The Philadelphia 76ers will be without one of their most important players for the immediate future.

The team announced Tuesday that star guard Tyrese Maxey suffered a tendon injury in his right pinkie and will undergo reevaluation in approximately three weeks.

Maxey suffered the injury late in Philadelphia’s loss to the Atlanta Hawks on Saturday. With just 16 seconds remaining, Maxey collided with teammate Adem Bona during a play and immediately grabbed his right hand. He quickly walked off the court and headed directly to the locker room while holding his hand under his jersey.

Initial tests revealed no fractures, but further evaluation revealed the tendon issue.

Head coach Nick Nurse addressed the situation following Philadelphia’s win over the Memphis Grizzlies, as first reported in an article published on ESPN.com.

“Obviously, it’s a huge blow for him,” Nurse said after the game. “He’s having an all-NBA season. Just hoping it heals really, really quick, and he gets back to where it doesn’t bother him at all. He’s obviously played tremendous. Obviously puts us in a bind with some of the other guys out, too. Just hopefully these two or three weeks will whiz by and he’ll be ready to go.”

Maxey has been enjoying the best season of his career. Across 61 games, he is averaging career highs with 29 points, 6.7 assists, 4.1 rebounds, two steals and 0.8 blocks per game.

His scoring production currently ranks fourth in the NBA. The 76ers guard holds the highest scoring average by a 76ers guard since Allen Iverson during the 2005-06 season.

Maxey’s impact has also extended to the defensive side. He is the only player in the NBA this season with at least 100 steals and 50 blocks.

Philadelphia has been noticeably stronger with Maxey in the lineup. The 76ers are 33-28 with him available compared to 2-2 in games he has missed.

The timing of the injury is difficult for a team already dealing with absences from other key players. Joel Embiid has missed five straight games with a right oblique strain, while Paul George is currently serving a 25-game suspension for violating the NBA’s anti-drug program.

Over the last two seasons, Philadelphia has played just 31 games with Embiid, George and Maxey all available.

Maxey also leads the NBA in minutes per game and total miles traveled this season, reflecting the heavy workload he has carried for the team.

The 76ers currently sit eighth in the Eastern Conference standings. With the regular season concluding April 12, Maxey’s return timeline could also impact his eligibility for All-NBA honors if he misses additional games.

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Nikola Jokic Sends Clear Message About Future With Nuggets

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3/9/2026

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Nikola Jokic has never been known for chasing the spotlight. Instead, the three-time MVP continues to build his legacy quietly in Denver. Recent comments from Jokic reinforced that commitment, as the Denver star made it clear he cannot imagine playing anywhere else in the NBA.

The Serbian center has spent his entire career with the Nuggets after being drafted in 2014. During that time, Jokic has transformed the franchise into a perennial contender while capturing multiple MVP awards and delivering the organization’s first NBA championship in 2023. His unique blend of scoring, passing, and basketball IQ has made him one of the most dominant and respected players in the league.

But Jokic’s connection to the city extends far beyond basketball. The superstar center spoke about his life in Denver and why the idea of playing somewhere else simply does not appeal to him. His comments, shared by Yahoo Sports on X, formerly Twitter, via X&O’s Chat, highlighted how deeply rooted he feels within the community and the organization.

“I wouldn’t like to imagine that … I really found peace here. My two kids were born here. Everyone’s here. Peace, home, I found my life here. And I like life here. I don’t feel the need, I don’t have the urge to. We built something here, together as a team.”

The quote reflects the culture Denver has built around Jokic. The organization constructed its roster around his unique playmaking ability, while teammates and coaches have consistently emphasized continuity and trust. That stability has helped the Nuggets remain competitive year after year in the Western Conference.

For Denver fans, Jokic’s message carries significant meaning. In an era where superstar movement often reshapes the league, the franchise centerpiece appears content staying exactly where his career began. As long as Jokic continues leading the way, the Nuggets remain positioned to compete for championships while keeping their generational talent firmly rooted in Denver.

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Rui Hachimura Identifies Lakers’ Biggest Flaw Against NBA’s Elite

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2/25/2026

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Rui Hachimura Points to Ball Movement as Lakers’ Issue Against Elite Teams

The Los Angeles Lakers continue to search for answers against the NBA’s best defenses—and Rui Hachimura believes the solution is straightforward.

It has been months since the Lakers defeated a top-four team from either conference. Their last such win came in January against the Denver Nuggets—a game in which Nikola Jokić did not play.

Since then, Los Angeles has been outmatched by contenders including the Cleveland Cavaliers, New York Knicks, Oklahoma City Thunder, San Antonio Spurs, and Boston Celtics. The issue has not simply been losses—it has been the manner in which they occurred. Each of those opponents ranks among the league’s top defensive units, and the Lakers’ offense has stalled under pressure.

Hachimura: “We Got to Have Ball Movement”

Hachimura, one of the team’s most efficient spot-up threats at 44.1% from three-point range, acknowledged that the Lakers’ offensive rhythm disappears against disciplined defenses.

“I think it mostly depends on the team we play against,” Hachimura told The Athletic’s Dan Woike after a 111-89 loss to the Celtics. “There are some teams that play really good team defense. Against that, we have to be more of sharing the ball, trusting each other. We got to have ball movement. Like yesterday, last game, they are a really great team, especially off the shift.”

The Lakers forward also went on and emphasized elite teams disrupt isolation-heavy sets with physical, handsy defense—turning rapid decisions into mistakes.

“Against those type of teams we kind of really struggle. We don’t have enough ball movement, so I think those kind of stuff is the key for us to keep a high level offense. Have the ball movement is going to be the key,” he added.

The Numbers Back It Up

The data reinforces his point.

The Lakers rank 21st in the NBA in assists per game at 25.3. In losses to elite teams, those numbers drop significantly:

  • 18 assists vs. Boston
  • 23 vs. San Antonio
  • 21 vs. New York
  • 21 vs. Cleveland

In contrast, during a recent four-game winning stretch prior to facing the Orlando Magic, the Lakers averaged 30.4 assists per game. Overall, they average nearly 28 assists in wins but only 21.5 in losses — a gap that ranks near the bottom of the league.

The trend is clear: when the ball moves, the offense flows. When it sticks, elite defenses feast.

For a team with postseason aspirations, the margin for error shrinks against top-tier opponents. Hachimura’s message is not complicated — trust, pass and create easier shots.

Until the Lakers consistently do that against the NBA’s best, their struggles against contenders will likely continue.

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