As the Charlotte Hornets once again sit near the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings, LaMelo Ball's future with the organization is becoming less certain.

On Tuesday, many individuals were buzzing about viral headlines and rumors suggesting that ESPN removed Stephen A. Smith from its " NBA Countdown" programs. However, Smith has since addressed the buzz, calling it a "non-story" and shutting down earlier reports that he was "yanked" from the show after appearing on for over six years.

It wouldn’t be a Warriors season without uncertainty around Jonathan Kuminga. As Tim Bontemps of ESPN noted, Kuminga’s role has swung from starter to reserve again, followed by a knee issue, and the same inconsistencies that have defined his early career continue to resurface.

Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James saluted Los Angeles Clippers point guard Chris Paul on his Instagram story amid rumors that the 12-time All-Star will retire after this season.

Stephen A. Smith clarified his departure from ESPN's NBA Countdown, refuting firing rumors. He explained that a contract negotiation last year led to his decision to step down from the show to pursue other projects.

Figures in the NBA are worried about what former Cavs player Damon Jones might say after his recent FBI arrest.

LeBron James is at risk for missing out on an All-NBA team spot for the first time in 22 years. After sitting out the first 14 games of the 2025-26 season amid his recovery from right-side sciatica, James can only miss three more games before hitting the 65-game minimum the NBA requires for end-of-season honors.

In this mock trade, the Milwaukee Bucks would get Giannis Antetokounmpo a complementary star by trading for LaMelo Ball.