The Los Angeles Lakers are targeting Los Angeles Clippers forward Derrick Jones Jr. ahead of the NBA season opener, as league sources report intensifying trade talks across the league. According to a report by spox.com, the Lakers join the Milwaukee Bucks and the Memphis Grizzlies as active participants looking to finalize deals before the regular season begins next week.
Lakers Pursue Clippers Forward Derrick Jones Jr.
League insider Dan Woike of The Athletic reports that Lakers front-office personnel have long valued Jones Jr. and would pursue a deal if he becomes available. The 29-year-old forward played a crucial role during the Dallas Mavericks’ run to the 2024 NBA Finals alongside Luka Doncic before joining the Clippers. Last season, Jones averaged 7.5 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.4 assists across 50 appearances for the Clippers.
Derrick Jones Jr. prefers to stay in LA and the Clippers would likely honor his request if he asked for a trade per @TomerAzarly “He said he would like to remain in LA… If they see a better opportunity elsewhere, they’ll approach the Clippers and the Clippers, in good faith,… pic.twitter.com/OeJ3t0miQ6”
A rapid transaction remains unlikely because internal appreciation for Jones within the Clippers organization runs high, spox.com reported. Lakers officials also evaluated Orlando Magic center Goga Bitadze, but any pursuit of Bitadze requires resolving past on-court friction between the center and Doncic. The two players clashed during a matchup in March, during which Doncic received a technical foul that the NBA later rescinded following allegations of verbal abuse.
Philadelphia 76ers Monitor Center Market After Ariel Hukporti Injury
The Philadelphia 76ers are actively evaluating frontcourt replacements following backup center Ariel Hukporti’s torn Achilles tendon during a preseason debut against the New York Knicks. Insider Jake Fischer reports that the Sixers have identified two potential targets, though financial constraints mean serious movement will likely wait until early December.
The targets include Jericho Sims of the Milwaukee Bucks and Moussa Cisse of the Dallas Mavericks. Sims averaged 5.0 points and 5.5 rebounds across 67 appearances last season, though a long-term future in Milwaukee appears uncertain as the franchise navigates a rebuild following the departure of Giannis Antetokounmpo. Cisse posted 4.5 points and 5.7 rebounds over 38 games for Dallas last season, prompting the New York Knicks to issue a two-year, $4.7 million offer sheet this summer that the Mavericks ultimately matched. Long-term roster plans in Dallas remain fluid as the franchise looks to preserve a roster spot for veteran Dwight Powell.
Contract Dispute Surrounds Oklahoma City Thunder Rookie Aday Mara
The Oklahoma City Thunder face an unexpected roster complication involving Spanish club Casademont Zaragoza regarding rookie Aday Mara. Zaragoza released a public statement asserting that Mara requires an official international clearance letter to compete in the NBA, maintaining that the player remains under a valid contract for the 2026–2027 season. The Spanish club stated it will pursue all necessary legal steps unless a financial agreement is reached.
The dispute stems from Mara’s unilateral contract termination in 2023 to play collegiate basketball in the United States, a move Zaragoza continues to contest. While the NCAA operates independently of FIBA regulations, NBA participation requires formal clearance. Multiple sources indicate that Mara’s regular-season debut against the San Antonio Spurs next Wednesday remains unaffected by the ongoing dispute. The 12th overall pick delivered strong preseason performances, including a 22-point, 10-for-10 shooting night against the Milwaukee Bucks, alongside a 17-point, 10-rebound double-double against the Atlanta Hawks.
Steve Kerr Announces Rest Plans for Golden State Warriors Veterans
Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr confirmed that veterans Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and Jimmy Butler will sit out select games throughout the upcoming season to manage physical fatigue. Curry signed a new contract extension and enters the season at age 39 following knee injuries last year, while Green is 36 and Butler continues his recovery from a torn ACL at age 37.
Kerr advised fans to monitor the team schedule closely when purchasing tickets, particularly during back-to-back game sets. Roster management protocols for Kristaps Porzingis remain undetermined as the center manages persistent health symptoms ahead of the season.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2026–2027 NBA Season
When does the 2026–2027 NBA regular season begin?
The regular season tips off on October 20, with opening night matchups featuring the Boston Celtics against the Detroit Pistons, the Philadelphia 76ers against the New York Knicks, and the Oklahoma City Thunder facing the San Antonio Spurs.
What international games are scheduled for the 2026–2027 season?
The Denver Nuggets will play the Indiana Pacers at Arena CDMX for the NBA Mexico City Game on November 7. Additionally, the San Antonio Spurs will face the New Orleans Pelicans in Paris on January 14, 2027, followed by a game in Manchester on January 17, 2027.
When is the trade deadline for the 2026–2027 season?
The league trade deadline falls on February 11, 2027, marking the final day for teams to execute player trades before rosters lock for the remainder of the regular season.
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