New York — NBA commissioner Adam Silver said Monday the 2026 All-Star Game will not be moved from Intuit Dome, even as the league continues to examine whether the Los Angeles Clippers and Kawhi Leonard violated salary-cap rules through a reported no-show endorsement arrangement.
Speculation surfaced that stripping the Clippers of next February’s showcase could become part of any sanction. Silver dismissed that possibility, explaining that All-Star planning is proceeding on a separate track from the inquiry and will not be interrupted if the investigation extends into mid-season.
NBA exhibition visit boosts Australia hopes
ESPN’s Olgun Uluc reported several takeaways after the New Orleans Pelicans played two preseason contests in Melbourne over the weekend. Among the highlights, projected 2026 first-round pick Dash Daniels — younger brother of Pelicans guard Dyson Daniels — held his own against NBA talent. National Basketball League owner Larry Kestelman told Uluc the successful visit gives him confidence the NBA will schedule additional games in Australia.
Alex Antetokounmpo eyes G League return
Forward Alex Antetokounmpo, 24, is expected to leave Greek club Aris Thessaloniki and sign a G League contract, according to Eurohoops’ Johnny Askounis. The younger brother of Giannis Antetokounmpo has not appeared in an NBA regular-season contest but previously accepted Exhibit 10 deals with Toronto in 2021 and Milwaukee in both 2022 and 2023 before joining their G League affiliates.
Storylines and trade chatter
The Athletic’s NBA beat writers outlined one pressing question for each of the league’s 30 teams. Topics range from which big man will emerge in Boston’s rotation to whether Orlando has sufficient three-point shooting and how dependable Ja Morant will be for Memphis.
At ESPN, Tim Bontemps listed 10 figures who could shape the 2025-26 campaign, while Bobby Marks examined 14 franchises positioned to be aggressive once trade season opens.
The league’s investigation into the Clippers continues with no timetable for completion, but Silver’s comments ensure All-Star weekend will remain in Southern California regardless of the probe’s outcome.
Source: Hoops Rumors
