Your Daily NBA Basketball Briefing

Expansion Progresses with Bidding Deadlines for Las Vegas and Seattle, Kuminga Prioritizes Fit Over Money

• UPDATE: Jonathan Kuminga's Agent Reveals Rationale for Timberwolves Deal. Kuminga reportedly turned down larger offers from teams like the Los Angeles Lakers, Portland Trail Blazers, and Chicago Bulls, opting for a two-year, $12 million deal with the Minnesota Timberwolves because he prioritized the "best basketball situation" and defensive fit. Anthony Edwards actively recruited Kuminga, emphasizing his potential defensive contributions, which resonated with Kuminga more than offensive opportunities.

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• NBA Advances Expansion Efforts with Set Bidding Deadlines for Las Vegas and Seattle. The league is moving forward with plans to add new franchises, with bidding deadlines now established for prospective ownership groups in both Las Vegas and Seattle. The estimated expansion fee for each new team is between $7 billion and $10 billion, with Las Vegas appearing to be slightly ahead in the process, having a second deadline for bidders in September.

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• Minnesota Timberwolves Execute Trade to Create Cap Flexibility for Kuminga Signing. The Timberwolves acquired Cody Williams and John Konchar from the Utah Jazz in exchange for Josh Green, with plans to waive and stretch Konchar's contract. This transaction was made to free up approximately $2.5 million in cap space, enabling Minnesota to finalize Jonathan Kuminga's two-year, $12 million deal while remaining under the second apron.

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• Toronto Raptors Announce Retirement of Kyle Lowry's No. 7 Jersey. The Toronto Raptors will honor franchise icon Kyle Lowry by retiring his No. 7 jersey on January 10, 2027, following a home game against the Philadelphia 76ers. Lowry will become only the second player in Raptors history to have his number retired, a testament to his significant contributions to the team.

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