October 22, 2025 — Teams across the NBA’s Northwest Division reported a busy week both on and off the court, highlighted by Utah’s new practice site, two rookie-scale extensions in Portland, veteran Mike Conley’s future plans, Anthony Edwards’ push toward a title, and Oklahoma City’s dramatic season opener.
Jazz start work on practice complex, owner stresses patience
The Jazz have begun construction on a practice facility outside downtown Salt Lake City, owner Ryan Smith told The Athletic. Despite four consecutive seasons of declining win totals — 52, 49, 37, 31 and 17 since 2020-21 — Smith voiced confidence in president of basketball operations Austin Ainge, head coach Will Hardy and a “flexible” front office loaded with draft capital.
“The picks aren’t coming fast enough for me, but I know this is the NBA. You have to grow the talent,” Smith said. He pointed to recent first-rounders Taylor Hendricks and Walker Kessler as key pieces of the rebuild, adding, “The ultimate goal is to win titles.”
Trail Blazers extend Camara, Sharpe
Rose Garden Report analyzed Portland’s two extensions finalized this week. Forward Toumani Camara agreed to a four-year, $81 million deal that was deemed a “win-win,” while guard Shaedon Sharpe secured four years and $90 million in what columnist Sean Highkin called a calculated risk, noting Sharpe’s All-Star potential entering his age-22 season.
Conley comfortable entering Year 19
T’Wolves point guard Mike Conley told HoopsHype he has no immediate plans to retire as he prepares for his 19th NBA campaign. “There hasn’t been a day that I have felt like I should retire yet,” the 37-year-old said, adding that he hopes to “squeeze a little bit more juice” out of his career and possibly reach a 20th season.
Edwards focused on title run, status for opener uncertain
In a feature for The Athletic, guard Anthony Edwards detailed his drive to improve after Minnesota’s back-to-back exits in the Western Conference Finals. The Timberwolves list him as questionable for Wednesday’s season opener in Portland because of back spasms.
Thunder collect rings, edge Rockets in double OT
ESPN’s Zach Kram examined whether Oklahoma City’s championship core already peaked, will peak this season, or still has more room to grow. The Thunder celebrated last year’s title Tuesday, then defeated Houston by one point in double overtime after receiving their rings.
The Northwest Division resumes action Wednesday when Minnesota visits Portland and Oklahoma City continues its early defense of the crown.
Source: Hoops Rumors
