2025-26 NBA awards odds, picks: Three best bets before Opening Night

Kevin Durant has made headlines by signing a two-year contract extension worth $90 million with the Houston Rockets, which not only solidifies his position with the team but also makes him the player with the highest career earnings in NBA history. This milestone is significant as it highlights Durant's exceptional talent and marketability, further elevating his legacy in the sport.

Rick Brunson's journey as an assistant coach for the Knicks has been a roller-coaster ride, culminating in the success of his son, Jalen Brunson. Watching Jalen excel on the court at Madison Square Garden, Rick feels a sense of validation as he sees his son reinvigorate New York City's passion for basketball. This story highlights the powerful bond between father and son and the impact of mentorship in sports.

Joel Embiid made a triumphant return to the court after a challenging season filled with injuries and surgery. His comeback is significant not just for him but for the Philadelphia 76ers, as they look to regain their competitive edge in the NBA. Embiid's performance and his candid remarks about the media highlight the pressures athletes face, making this moment a pivotal one for fans and the league.

Egor Dëmin made a highly anticipated debut with the Nets in Toronto, showcasing his skills after recovering from a foot injury that sidelined him during training camp and preseason. Fans and the team were thrilled with his performance, as he demonstrated that he can compete at the NBA level. This debut is significant not only for Dëmin's career but also for the Nets, who are looking to build a strong team around young talent.

Stephen A. Smith recently discussed his confrontation with LeBron James during a Lakers game, where he defended his criticism of LeBron's son, Bronny James. This exchange highlights the ongoing scrutiny that public figures face, especially when it involves family. It matters because it sheds light on the pressures athletes endure and the expectations placed on their children in the spotlight.

The Rangers are facing a challenging start to the 2025-26 season with several injuries impacting their roster just six games in. This situation is opening up opportunities for other players to step up and provide the necessary depth. It's a crucial moment for the team as they look to maintain their performance despite these setbacks.

The Oklahoma City Thunder have kicked off the 2025-26 NBA season with a historic win total, showcasing their strength as defending champions. Oddsmakers are optimistic about their performance, suggesting that the team is poised for another successful season. This is significant not only for the Thunder's fans but also for the league, as it highlights the team's dominance and sets high expectations for their upcoming games.

The 35th annual Halloween Dog Parade in New York City brought together hundreds of costumed canines and thousands of spectators, showcasing the creativity and fun of this beloved East Village tradition. This event not only highlights the bond between pets and their owners but also fosters a sense of community as people gather to celebrate in a festive atmosphere. It's a reminder of the joy that pets bring into our lives and how they can be part of our celebrations.

The Jets faced a disappointing 13-6 loss against the Panthers in NFL Week 7, highlighting ongoing struggles in their performance. This game matters as it reflects the team's challenges in scoring and maintaining momentum, raising concerns among fans and analysts about their prospects for the rest of the season.

This October, as baseball fans reflect on the sport's history, the need for more starting pitchers to embrace the legendary Babe Ruth's approach becomes evident. Ruth's remarkable 14-inning performance in the 1916 World Series remains a record, showcasing the potential for starters to influence the game's outcome significantly. As teams strategize for the postseason, revisiting such iconic moments highlights the importance of endurance and versatility in pitching, which could reshape how the game is played today.

Kate Cassidy's friend has expressed concern over her well-being following the tragic death of Liam Payne, who passed away at just 31. Cassidy had left Argentina just two days before the news broke, raising questions about her state of mind during this difficult time. This situation highlights the often-overlooked impact of grief and loss on mental health, reminding us of the importance of support for those affected by such tragedies.

Karine Jean-Pierre has expressed her disillusionment with the Democratic Party, stating she can no longer identify as a Democrat due to what she describes as the party's 'horrible' treatment of President Biden. This sentiment reflects a growing concern among party members about the internal dynamics and support for their leader, which could have implications for the party's unity and future electoral success.

George Santos, the former representative from New York, has made his first public appearance since being released from prison, thanks to President Trump's commutation of his seven-year sentence for wire fraud and aggravated identity theft. This marks a significant moment for Santos, who is now looking to re-enter the political arena after a tumultuous period. His return could have implications for his supporters and the broader political landscape, as he seeks to rebuild his image and influence.