Duren stays: 5-year deal
Detroit and center Jalen Duren agreed to a five-year, $200 million rookie-scale extension on Oct. 2, 2026. Duren, an All‑NBA Third Team selection last season who averaged about 19.5 points and 10.5 rebounds, completed a physical and is expected to rejoin practice this weekend. Coach J.B. Bickerstaff said the Pistons are pleased to have him back.
Source: NBA.com
Celtics rookies keep learning
Boston rookies Chris Cenac Jr. and Mitchell kept the focus on development at practice on Oct. 2, 2026. Cenac recounted offseason work with Hakeem Olajuwon before college, and team staff highlighted progress in fundamentals and decision‑making as the Celtics prepare for preseason work and player growth ahead of the regular season.
Source: Boston Celtics / NBA.com
Giannis set for Canada debut
The Miami Heat will make a marquee preseason appearance in Québec City when Giannis Antetokounmpo debuts in a Heat jersey on Oct. 3, 2026, the league’s Canada Series guide noted on Oct. 2. After 13 seasons in Milwaukee, Giannis is slated to suit up against the Toronto Raptors in the NBA Canada Game, a high‑profile preseason showcase.
Source: NBA.com
Josh Hart will play on
New York forward Josh Hart said Oct. 2, 2026 that he will forgo a full joint‑replacement surgery on his right ring finger and instead play through the injury. Team reports say doctors had recommended a procedure that could end his career; Hart told media he plans to continue competing while managing the condition.
Source: NBA.com
Wizards draw big crowds
Washington’s open practice on Oct. 2, 2026 drew strong fan turnout and upbeat atmosphere, the team‑coverage piece reported. Attendees saw spirited drills and fan moments — including guard Tre Mann beating Bilal Coulibaly in a three‑point contest — as the Wizards showed momentum-building energy ahead of preseason play.
Source: NBA.com
Blazers add Ja Morant
The Portland Trail Blazers added former All‑Star guard Ja Morant in a trade with Memphis, the league’s offseason deals tracker noted on Oct. 2, 2026. The move, listed among the major roster changes on the NBA free‑agency tracker, reshapes Portland’s backcourt and will be a focal point as the team assembles its rotation for the coming season.
Source: NBA.com