NBA Player News

Flagg (ankle) could be working alongside a new member of the starting lineup after Dallas selected Morez Johnson with the No. 9 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft.

P.J. Washington and either Dereck Lively (foot) or Daniel Gafford remain the early favorites to comprise the Mavericks' starting frontcourt in 2026-27, but Johnson certainly poses a significant risk to that projection. Dallas is set to finally have Kyrie Irving back in the fold next year following his knee surgery, and the star guard's presence might have more of an impact on Flagg's performance than Johnson's. That in mind, Flagg is in jeopardy of seeing a downtick in usage, but he shot just 29.5 percent from deep during his rookie campaign and could see more open looks from downtown with Irving in the lineup.

The Thunder traded Joe to the Pistons in exchange for two second-round picks, Shams Charania of ESPN reports.

The Pistons secure some additional shooting to spread the floor for Cade Cunningham. Joe played a key role for the Thunder in 2025-26, averaging 11.1 points, 2.5 rebounds, 1.3 assists and 2.5 three-pointers on 45.5 percent shooting from the field in 71 regular-season appearances. He has a chance to play a similar role with his new team.

Dieng should receive every opportunity to earn consistent rotation minutes now that Milwaukee has fully embraced a rebuilding direction, Amir Motameni of SI.com reports.

The former lottery pick flashed intriguing upside after arriving late last season, and the Bucks can afford to prioritize his development alongside fellow youngsters Brayden Burries, Nate Ament, Kel'el Ware and Jaime Jaquez. Increased competition at forward exists, but Milwaukee's emphasis on evaluating its young core should work in Dieng's favor with Giannis Antetokounmpo out of the picture.

Green should continue playing a significant role despite Milwaukee's influx of young wings, Amir Motameni of SI.com reports.

The sharpshooter established himself as one of the league's better perimeter specialists last season, and his floor spacing should remain valuable as the Bucks integrate Brayden Burries and Nate Ament into the rotation. While the rookies could eventually eat into his minutes, Green projects to remain one of Milwaukee's most reliable veterans on the wing following the Giannis Antetokounmpo trade.

Kuzma (Achilles) could take on a larger offensive role after Milwaukee pivoted toward a rebuild, though he also profiles as a logical trade candidate, Amir Motameni of SI.com reports.

The veteran forward is one of the few proven scorers remaining on the roster following the Giannis Antetokounmpo trade and could help ease the transition for rookies Brayden Burries and Nate Ament if Kuzma stays with the team. However, Kuzma's expiring contract could make him an appealing target for contenders before the trade deadline.

Turner (ankle) remains one of Milwaukee's top trade candidates after the organization shifted into rebuilding mode following the Giannis Antetokounmpo deal, Amir Motameni of SI.com reports.

While the veteran center would likely open the season as the Bucks' starting center, the team's focus on developing younger talent could eventually lead to a move if the right offer emerges. Until then, Turner should continue to serve as a stabilizing presence on a roster headlined by inexperienced players.

Rollins (thumb) appears poised for an expanded role after Milwaukee traded Giannis Antetokounmpo and entered a youth movement by drafting Brayden Burries and Nate Ament, Amir Motameni of SI.com reports.

The 24-year-old is one of the few returning young players expected to receive consistent opportunities as the Bucks evaluate their long-term core. Rollins should compete for a starting backcourt role entering training camp, though his usage could fluctuate depending on Tyler Herro's status. Rollins' fantasy outlook is trending up following Milwaukee's organizational reset.

The Raptors extended Martin a qualifying offer, Keith Smith of Spotrac.com reports.

If Martin accepts his qualifying offer, he will be back in Toronto next season on another two-way contract. Presumably, he'd play a featured role for their G League Affiliate.

Daniels may face increased competition for minutes in Atlanta's backcourt after the Hawks drafted Kingston Flemings with the No. 8 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft.

Atlanta also brought in Aaron Wiggins via free agency, adding another player who will require minutes in the Hawks' backcourt. Daniels saw 46 percent of his minutes at the shooting guard position last season, but that number may dip with Wiggins and Flemings in the mix. Daniels' role will be worth monitoring throughout training camp and the preseason.

Gafford will face increased competition for minutes during the 2026-27 season after Dallas selected Morez Johnson with the No. 9 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft.

Gafford started 44 of the 55 games he appeared in last season, but there's a new head coach in Dallas, and the Mavericks just drafted one of his favorite prospects. With Dereck Lively expected to be back after recovering from foot surgery, Gafford will likely face stiff competition for frontcourt minutes during the 2026-27 campaign.