September 19th’s NBA News was INSANE. The NBA never sleeps—and neither do the headlines. From a homecoming in Dallas, to LeBron reflecting on retirement, and a blockbuster investigation involving Kawhi Leonard,
Dennis Smith Jr. Returns to Dallas
Dennis Smith Jr. is heading back to where it all started. The former No. 9 pick of the 2017 draft has agreed to a one-year deal with the Dallas Mavericks. While his career has had ups and downs, DSJ’s defensive intensity and improved playmaking could add depth behind Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving.
Training camp will be key—Smith has to prove he can carve out a meaningful role on a roster with championship aspirations.
LeBron James Speaks on Retirement
LeBron James—now entering Year 23—reminded everyone that his career is closer to its end than its beginning.
“Retirement is coming. It is coming. It’s just not here just yet.”
It’s rare to hear LeBron speak so openly about the end. But make no mistake: he’s still competing at a high level, and with Bronny now in the league, the story is far from over.
Kawhi Leonard & Clippers Under Investigation
The biggest bombshell, though, comes from Los Angeles. According to @pablofindsout, the Clippers made a $21M payment to Aspiration—a financial services company linked to Kawhi Leonard—just two weeks before Leonard’s infamous “no-show” payment.
The timing raises serious questions. The NBA is investigating whether Steve Ballmer, the Clippers’ front office, and Leonard circumvented salary cap rules by funneling money through Kawhi’s business dealings.
If proven true, the consequences could be massive: fines, lost draft picks, and reputational damage for one of the league’s premier franchises.
Closing Thoughts
September 19th was CRAZY: One story is about new beginnings (Smith Jr.), one about a legend preparing for the end (LeBron), and one about a potential scandal that could shake the league (Kawhi).
The 2025 NBA season hasn’t even tipped off yet, and the September 19th NBA News is wild.
