With a seventh import leaving the NBL this season, the league’s rumour mill is in overdrive. From surprise exits to whispers of blockbuster signings, front offices across the country are scrambling to find answers.

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What started as a few early-season departures has turned into one of the biggest storylines of NBL26. Teams are reassessing their rosters, exploring quick fixes, and chasing proven talent to keep their campaigns on track.

And while nothing’s official yet, sources around the league say multiple clubs are already in talks – including a former NBL player eyeing a return.

The NBL’s mid-season movement window is wide open – and things are about to get very interesting.

Here’s what we at foxsports.com.au are hearing.

WILDCATS PART WAYS WITH US IMPORT

The Perth Wildcats have officially parted ways with import guard Mason Jones after just four games in NBL26.

Jones arrived in Perth with high expectations – a former NBA G League Finals MVP and champion, billed as a proven scorer and dynamic playmaker ready to fill part of the shoes of franchise legend Bryce Cotton. But it never quite clicked.

Across his short stint, Jones averaged 9.5 points, 2 rebounds and 2 assists on just 29% shooting, struggling to find rhythm or consistency within Perth’s system. His frustrations reached a boiling point in last weekend’s clash with the Brisbane Bullets, where he was ejected – a moment that effectively sealed his fate.

The Wildcats, who have started the season 3-2, are still considered one of the league’s contenders, but their 110-93 loss to Brisbane exposed a clear need for a more composed and efficient floor general.

Perth GM Danny Mills released a statement following the news:

“Mason has been a dedicated professional during his time in Perth and handled himself with great character. We thank him for his efforts and wish him every success in the future.”

With Jones gone, attention now turns to who Perth targets next. All signs point to the Wildcats chasing a point guard – someone capable of orchestrating the offence and stretching the floor. The Wildcats have never shied away from making bold mid-season moves, and this could be another defining one.

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WHO WILL THE HAWKS GO AFTER NEXT?

The Illawarra Hawks continue their search for a new import following the release of JaQuori McLaughlin earlier this month.

McLaughlin’s departure came after a frustrating start to the season where he struggled to fit into Justin Tatum’s system. The Hawks, eager to stabilise after a rocky opening stretch, are in the market for a player who can spark their offence and help Tyler Harvey shoulder the scoring load.

For a brief moment, it appeared that Ian Clark – a NBL champion and one of the most respected veterans in the league – was the frontrunner. Clark, who has previously suited up for Melbourne United, the Sydney Kings, and the Adelaide 36ers, was seen as the perfect plug-and-play option. However, sources have confirmed he’s no longer in contention, leaving the Hawks to explore other avenues.

One name quietly circulating behind the scenes is a former NBL player who last featured in 2016 – a hint that Illawarra may be leaning toward experience and scoring pedigree rather than a developmental option. The club’s recruiting profile suggests they’re seeking a guard who can both create and convert, ideally someone with the confidence to take control late in games.

For the Hawks, who have shown flashes of promise amid an inconsistent start, this next signing could determine whether they stabilise their season – or continue to search for answers.

BULLETS EYE REPLACEMENT FOR GUN IMPORT

The Brisbane Bullets are starting to make some serious noise. Fresh off one of their most dominant performances of the season, a 110-point outburst against the Perth Wildcats – the Bullets reminded everyone just how dangerous they can be when it all clicks.

While their follow-up game didn’t end in victory, it showed something even more important: this team is right on the edge of being a genuine finals threat.

But there’s still one major piece missing. After the sudden exit of Javon Freeman-Liberty, the Bullets have an open import slot – and it could be the key to unlocking their full potential.

Right now, Brisbane’s front office is actively scouring the market for a scoring guard – a dynamic two-man who can replace Freeman-Liberty’s punch and ease the offensive burden on Casey Prather. With NBA training camp cuts underway, the timing couldn’t be better for the Bullets to land a high-impact talent ready to make a statement in the NBL.

A trio of Jaylen Adams, Casey Prather, and a new import sharing the offensive load – with Tyrell Harrison patrolling the paint and doing damage inside. That’s a formula that could turn Brisbane from a fringe contender into a legitimate powerhouse.

The Bullets are close – and the next move could be the one that pushes them over the top.