NBA media days often come off as rehearsed and dull, but this year delivered some genuine updates. Jalen Duren missed the Detroit media day and will also be absent at the start of training camp. There were also developments involving Kristaps Porzingis with the Warriors and Brandon Ingram with the Clippers. For insights on what LeBron James said in Philadelphia, Jalen Brunson in New York, or Victor Wembanyama in San Antonio, we’ve got the coverage you need.
But that wasn’t everything; here’s a roundup of other news from across the league as most teams held their media days.
When Nikola Jokic opted against signing a contract extension with the Nuggets this summer—a smart financial move if he aims for a bigger deal next year—it caused some surprise around the league, prompting teams to keep a close eye on the situation. Naturally, rumors began swirling, but Jokic promptly shut them down at Denver’s media day, as he consistently does.
“I’m gonna sign next year, if they want me,” Jokic said simply.
This summer, Jokic had the chance to sign a four-year, $276 million extension. Next summer, however, he could sign a five-year contract worth an estimated $357 million, including a no-trade clause, potentially carrying him through age 36.
While rookie sensation Darius Acuff might have been expected to steal the spotlight at Sacramento Kings media day, much of the focus fell on Ben Simmons, who is currently on a non-guaranteed minimum deal. After missing last season and facing criticism that he didn’t love basketball, Simmons pushed back against those claims.
“I think that was more so my body. It wasn’t about if I wanted to play. All these people talk about, I don’t love the game. That’s bulls***. I love this game. If I didn’t, I wouldn’t have taken that year to focus on myself and get back to where I’m at,” Simmons said.
He added, “I miss playing the game a lot, but it’s hard to do when you’re not physically right. I’m healthy, and I’m able to compete every day.”
Sacramento is seeking a dependable veteran backup behind Acuff, and Simmons will have a chance to fill that role.
Additional notes from media days include:
San Antonio’s Dylan Harper, a preseason favorite for Sixth Man of the Year with the second-best odds at DraftKings (behind OKC’s Ajay Mitchell), made it clear he doesn’t want to come off the bench. “If that’s come off the bench…. That’s crazy. F*** no. I ain’t coming off no bench,” Harper told GQ’s Cam Wolf.
Stephen Curry abruptly left the podium when asked about pundits’ low expectations for the Warriors making the playoffs.
Jimmy Butler showcased new earrings but kept his hairstyle the same for media day in Golden State.
Anthony Davis stated he plans to complete the season in Washington on his current $58.5 million deal, with a player option for next season worth $62.8 million. He said, “I’m going to go through the season, and kind of do what I do at a high level, and then, when it’s over, sit down and have those key conversations again with the front office.”
In Portland, Damian Lillard will start at one guard spot, but the other remains undecided. Candidates include Ja Morant, Jrue Holiday, and Scoot Henderson. Morant expressed he’s comfortable coming off the bench if it helps the team win. “Winning is the most important thing for me…As a starter, if I’m starting, if I’m not, it’s the same thing,” he said.
The Charlotte Hornets waived former No. 8 pick Rob Dillingham, making him a free agent.
Fan Take: This year’s media days reveal a mix of high stakes and personal comebacks that could shape the NBA landscape significantly. Watching stars negotiate contracts, assert their roles, and battle for roster spots reminds fans that beyond highlights, the game involves hard decisions and resilience—a compelling narrative that deepens our connection to the sport.
Source: sports.yahoo.com
