October 1, 2025 — Southwest Division roundup
Juan Núñez sidelined after knee procedure
San Antonio guard prospect Juan Núñez faces roughly six months of recovery following right-knee surgery performed Tuesday, FC Barcelona announced. Surgeons removed a meniscal cyst and reinforced sutures from a March 11 arthroscopy. The 21-year-old averaged 5.0 points, 2.5 rebounds and 3.4 assists for Barcelona in last season’s EuroLeague. Núñez was drafted 36th overall in 2024 and landed with the Spurs via a draft-night deal with Indiana.
Spurs’ backcourt plans on hold
Injuries have thinned San Antonio’s guard rotation, according to the San Antonio Express-News. Newly extended All-Star De’Aaron Fox strained a hamstring during offseason workouts and is doubtful for the Oct. 22 opener against Dallas. No. 2 overall pick Dylan Harper remains in rehab from left-thumb surgery. With both sidelined, second-year guard Stephon Castle is expected to initiate the offense. “What he has already done is something we want to continue to grow,” head coach Mitch Johnson said of last season’s Rookie of the Year.
Ja Morant to negotiate next deal himself
Memphis star Ja Morant plans to represent himself in future contract talks, reports the Daily Memphian. Morant recently cut ties with agents Jim Hill and Mike Miller and has launched a Memphis-based advisory firm called ILOC. His uncle Phil Morant serves as chief managing director, while his mother, Jamie Morant, also works at the firm. Former Grizzlies security chief Kevin Helms oversees daily operations. Morant’s current five-year, $197 million deal runs through the 2027-28 season.
Rockets hire analytics specialist Robbie Lemons
The Rockets have added Robbie Lemons to Ime Udoka’s staff as an assistant coach, the Houston Chronicle reported. Lemons spent the past two seasons in Sacramento under Mike Brown, focusing on analytics and strategy.
D’Angelo Russell seeks lasting impact in Dallas
New Mavericks guard D’Angelo Russell, who signed a two-year contract this summer, said he hopes to earn a permanent role rather than simply bridge the gap while Kyrie Irving recovers from a knee injury. “I’m not looking at it like I’m just holding down the fort,” Russell told Dallas Hoops Journal. “I want to establish myself here, be consistent, and help us win games. When Kai comes back, I’ll adjust, but my mindset is to make an impact from day one.”
Opening night in the Southwest Division arrives Oct. 22, with several key players already charting differing comeback timelines.
Source: Hoops Rumors
