Raptors lock Leonard
The Toronto Raptors agreed to a reported two‑year, $115 million extension with Kawhi Leonard on Sept. 22, securing the two‑time Finals MVP while betting on his recovery. Leonard reportedly accepted below‑max terms and waived a trade kicker; the Raptors expect him to join training camp.
Source: NBC Sports
Hawks add Finney‑Smith
On Sept. 22 the Atlanta Hawks agreed to trade Buddy Hield, Ryan Nembhard and cash to the Charlotte Hornets for wing Dorian Finney‑Smith, reports said. The move clears salary and roster space for Atlanta and brings a veteran 3‑and‑D wing into its rotation as the team shapes its training‑camp roster.
Source: NBC Sports
Pistons extend Ausar Thompson
The Detroit Pistons announced Sept. 22 that they signed Ausar Thompson to a five‑year, $155 million extension, keeping the All‑Defensive forward under contract long term. The deal cements Detroit’s defensive core as the club prepares for training camp and the 2026‑27 season.
Source: Yahoo Sports
VanVleet progressing
At Rockets media day on Sept. 22 coach Ime Udoka said Fred VanVleet has progressed to 5‑on‑5 work and is expected to be a full participant in camp, though the staff will manage his minutes and avoid early back‑to‑backs while he finishes recovery. The update brightens Houston’s lead‑guard outlook.
Source: Sports Illustrated
Whitmore to wear 00
Denver’s Cam Whitmore will wear No. 00 with the Nuggets, the club confirmed Sept. 22. The roster addition now has an official number as training camp approaches, giving coaches one more identifier as they evaluate his fit and potential rotation minutes during preseason preparation.
Source: Sports Illustrated
Kings weigh Sabonis market
Reports on Sept. 22 indicated Sacramento is getting a realism check on Domantas Sabonis’ trade market, with some teams seeing limited value or requiring draft compensation to take on his contract. The assessment complicates the Kings’ options as they consider roster moves before the season.
Source: Sports Illustrated