Latest Basketball News

📅January 2, 2026 at 1:00 AM
NBA action heats up on Jan 2, 2026, with key games like Pelicans vs. Trail Blazers, injury concerns for stars like Jokić and Tatum, bold predictions, and swirling trade rumors involving Giannis and LaVine.
1

Pelicans vs. Trail Blazers Game Preview and Injury Report

The New Orleans Pelicans face the Portland Trail Blazers on Friday, Jan. 2 at 7:00 pm CT, with full injury updates available. Fans can watch live on TV or stream online for this key matchup.Source 1 Key player statuses will influence the outcome as both teams vie for positioning.

2

Bold Prediction: Giannis Antetokounmpo to Be Traded

Bleacher Report predicts Giannis Antetokounmpo will be traded by the Milwaukee Bucks due to limited assets and a below-.500 outlook. The Bucks face $22.5M cap hits from Damian Lillard's contract over four seasons.Source 2 This move aims to rebuild contention path.

3

OKC Thunder Predicted for 70 Wins in 2025-26

Analysts forecast the Oklahoma City Thunder to finish the 2025-26 season with 70 wins after their first title. Recent fireworks include major trades and injuries across the league.Source 2 Their dominance positions them as top contenders.

4

LeBron James Starts Season on Injured List

LeBron James begins a season injured for the first time in his career, per bold 2026 predictions. This follows a chaotic 2025 with Luka Dončić traded to Lakers and other shocks.Source 2 Impact on Lakers remains a key storyline.

5

Jayson Tatum Eyes February Season Debut

Boston Celtics optimism rises with Jayson Tatum potentially debuting in February after Achilles rupture. At 90% form, he'd challenge Knicks and Pistons in the East.Source 2 Celtics aim for another Finals run.

6

Nuggets Face Crisis with Jokić Out 4 Weeks

Nikola Jokić's knee hyperextension sidelines him at least four weeks, joining Aaron Gordon, Christian Braun, and Cameron Johnson out. Denver could drop in standings but eyes playoff return.Source 2 Full health gives them title shot vs. Thunder.

7

NBA Expansion Talks Heat Up for Las Vegas and Seattle

Commissioner Adam Silver confirms interest in Las Vegas and Seattle markets for expansion. Decisions expected in 2026 after economic assessments with teams.Source 2 This could add new franchises soon.

8

Rockets Favored to Crush Nets 127-113

AI projection gives Houston Rockets 84% win probability over Brooklyn Nets, powered by elite offense and Durant-Thompson scoring 50+ vs. former teams. Alperen Sengun's calf status is key uncertainty.Source 3 Houston's depth overwhelms depleted Nets.

9

Mavericks Predicted to Edge Sixers 119-116

Dallas Mavericks hold 84% win chance against Philadelphia 76ers, led by Cooper Flagg's playmaking. Joel Embiid's knee decision could shift dynamics entirely.Source 3 Home court seals tight victory.

10

Celtics Expected to Dominate Kings 121-102

Boston Celtics projected to win 83% over injury-riddled Sacramento Kings, with Brown and White leading efficient attack. Tatum absence managed amid Kings' absences like Sabonis.Source 3 Defensive pressure forces turnovers.

11

Clippers to Beat Jazz 122-116 in Key Western Clash

Los Angeles Clippers favored 84% over Utah Jazz, with Kawhi Leonard dominating and Harden creating looks. Utah hampered by season-ending Kessler injury and Markkanen GTD.Source 3 Clippers extend streak.

12

Bucks Trade Scenarios: LaVine and Kuzma in Play

Milwaukee Bucks eye Zach LaVine from Bulls while moving Myles Turner to Warriors in proposed deals. Kyle Kuzma targeted by Kings in multi-team scenarios.Source 4Source 5 Efforts to upgrade amid Giannis retention push.

Latest Basketball News | DeckBook AI