Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James will miss the start of the 2025–26 NBA season due to sciatica on his right side, Shams Charania of ESPN announced Thursday. 

The 21-time All-Star is expected to be reevaluated in three to four weeks, ruling him out for opening night when the Lakers host the Golden State Warriors on October 21. 

The Indiana Pacers have signed Cameron Payne to a training camp deal. Payne, who appeared in 72 games for the Knicks last season, averaged 6.9 points, 1.4 rebounds, and 2.8 assists, before seeing his numbers dip in the playoffs.

Jamal Shead’s offseason leadership with teammates has helped him carve out a prominent role among Toronto’s younger players, echoing the path of undersized guards like Fred VanVleet. Known for his humility and charisma, Shead contributed in 75 games as a rookie, averaging 7.1 points, 1.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists.

The New York Knicks have added veteran shooting coach Peter Patton to their staff, according to James L. Edwards III of The Athletic. 

Patton brings nearly a decade of experience as one of the league’s most respected shooting specialists, having previously worked with the Minnesota Timberwolves (2016–18), Dallas Mavericks (2018–23), and Chicago Bulls (2023–25). 

The Cavaliers will take a cautious approach with Lonzo Ball to start the season, limiting him to about 20 minutes per game and sitting him out of one game in back-to-back sets. The plan, created in collaboration with Ball and the medical staff, is designed to ease him into the year following his return from a lengthy knee injury absence.

The New York Knicks have called several teams to gauge interest Pacome Dadiet, to keep Malcolm Brogdon and Landry Shamet on their Opening Night roster. Despite trade chatter, Dadiet’s strong summer work, flashes on defense, and improved G League performance have made moving him a more complicated decision for the team.