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TOPRaptors outlast Nuggets, remain undefeated at Summer League
The Toronto Raptors defeated the Denver Nuggets 101-97 in Summer League action on Tuesday, improving their record to 3-0. Ja'Kobe Walter led the Raptors with 26 points, shooting 8-of-16 from the field and 6-of-7 from the free-throw line, while also grabbing four rebounds and recording seven steals. A.J. Lawson contributed 19 points off the bench on his birthday, adding seven rebounds. Other key scorers included Jamal Shead with 16 points and a game-high eight assists, and rookie Collin Murray-Boyles with 10 points. Ulrich Chomche finished with a game-high plus-15 rating, contributing seven points, four rebounds, an assist, and a block, highlighted by a crucial fourth-quarter block leading to a transition dunk for Murray-Boyles. For the winless Nuggets (0-3), Curtis Jones led the team with 20 points off the bench. Denver struggled significantly with Toronto's defensive pressure, committing 24 turnovers in the game. Six of these turnovers occurred during a decisive third-quarter stretch where the Raptors went on a 19-0 run, winning the quarter by 16 points. Over three games, Toronto has forced 87 opponent turnovers. The Raptors are now one of eight undefeated teams in Las Vegas and lead all 30 Summer League squads with a plus-17 average point differential. The top four teams after each plays four games will advance to the semifinals on Saturday. Toronto's next game is against the Golden State Warriors on Thursday at 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT.
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TOPSpeculated Celtics Target Reportedly Joins Contender After Buyout
Bradley Beal has agreed to a contract buyout with the Phoenix Suns and plans to sign with the Los Angeles Clippers on a two-year, $11 million deal that includes a player option for next summer, allowing him to become a free agent again. Before choosing the Clippers, Beal reportedly considered joining the Golden State Warriors, Los Angeles Lakers, Milwaukee Bucks, or Minnesota Timberwolves, with the latter three teams having extensive recent conversations with him. Despite Beal's close friendship with Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum, a move to Boston was unlikely. Tatum is expected to miss most, if not all, of the 2025-26 season, and the Celtics' financial situation further hindered any potential interest. Separately, Damian Lillard, recently bought out by the Milwaukee Bucks, has been linked to the Celtics. Reports indicate mutual interest between Lillard and the team, with Tatum actively pitching the nine-time All-Star on joining Boston.
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New York Liberty star Natasha Cloud handed fine warning by WNBA over her outfit - 'I don't understand why'
New York Liberty player Natasha Cloud received a WNBA fine warning concerning her outfit choice while sitting on the bench during a game against the Las Vegas Aces last Wednesday. She was ruled out due to injury but attended the game wearing a sweater vest, cargo pants, a black baseball cap, and Doc Martins. The specific issue was her cap, which surprised Cloud as the WNBA reportedly lacks a rule banning caps, though the NBA (the WNBA's owner) does have such a rule. Cloud expressed confusion and frustration about receiving the warning for wearing a hat while unable to play, stating, "I don't understand why I receive a fine warning for wearing a hat on the bench for a game I was unable to play in?" and adding, "I just feel like I wanna be left alone lolllzzz." Cloud also recently drew attention for supporting New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani. When asked about Mamdani's win in the Democratic primary last month, Cloud used the opportunity to strongly criticize former President Donald Trump. She referred to Mamdani as "my boy!" and then addressed Trump, saying, "If Donny wants to come down here, if ICE wants to try and come down here, that's fine. But [they're] going to learn the hard way… New Yorkers really don't f*** around. They don't play about one another. They don't play about this city." She characterized Trump and his administration's actions as "reckless," but also saw it as "exciting" because it signaled that "we're getting to them," "creating change that they don't want," and "dismantling a system." Cloud urged New Yorkers to "continue to be on the right path to history," protect each other, and protect Mamdani and his goals.
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Michigan basketball: Dusty May and staff working hard to eliminate one major wart
Michigan basketball achieved significant success in the 2024-25 season under first-year head coach Dusty May, transforming from an 8-24 record to Big Ten Tournament champions and a Sweet 16 appearance. However, a persistent problem throughout the season was the team's high turnover rate, which frustrated fans and the coaching staff alike. Coach May and his staff implemented numerous drills and strategies to address the turnover issue during the season, but were unable to find a consistent solution. May noted the problem lacked a common theme, with different players responsible in different games. After the season, May assigned staff members to conduct a detailed analysis, categorizing turnovers into specific types (e.g., poor decision-making, defensive pressure, practice situations) to identify the root causes. He expressed frustration at the lack of definitive answers during the season, acknowledging that opponents ("the enemy") also contribute to forced errors. May revealed this offseason analysis is a deliberate mission, drawing parallels to a similar successful project he undertook at FAU where they identified concrete solutions. He emphasized that last season's turnovers often seemed random and unexplainable (e.g., dribbling off a foot), occurring even when the team played well. The staff exhausted various approaches to fix the problem, including punitive running drills inspired by Bob Knight and incentive-based systems, but none provided a lasting fix.
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Expansion WNBA team brings back the Portland Fire name
The Portland Fire name has been revived for Oregon's new WNBA expansion team. The franchise, set to begin play next season alongside the Toronto Tempo, announced the name and branding on Tuesday. This reintroduces the moniker of Portland's previous WNBA team, which operated from 2000 to 2002. Interim Fire president Clare Hamill stated, "Our feeling is that the fire never died," emphasizing that fans had been waiting for the team's return. The announcement positions the team as coming back with the Portland Fire identity. Alongside the name, the team unveiled its new branding elements. This includes a "Rose on Fire" logo and a color palette featuring red, brown, blue, and pink.
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Lakers now have home-run signing to make thanks to NBA bottom-feeder
The Los Angeles Lakers, prioritizing defense despite having stars LeBron James and Luka Dončić, are actively seeking affordable defensive role players within the NBA's restrictive second-apron rules. An opportunity emerged when the Charlotte Hornets waived forward Josh Okogie after failing to trade him before his contract guarantee deadline. Okogie is recognized as one of the league's top defensive guards but carries significant offensive limitations. His career shooting percentages—29.9% from three-point range and 40.6% overall—suppressed his market value. However, he showed recent improvement, hitting 34.8% from three last season and 38.1% in 25 games before joining Charlotte. For the Lakers, Okogie would primarily serve as a regular-season wing defender, playing 10-12 minutes per game to preserve starters' energy. While not a playoff difference-maker, he offers rotational flexibility: his presence could ease trading players like Jarred Vanderbilt or Gabe Vincent by absorbing minutes, and he provides coach JJ Redick another situational option. Offensively, any contribution would be a bonus, especially with James and Dončić creating opportunities. Ultimately, signing Okogie is considered a low-risk move. If the Lakers view him as having more upside than current options like Shake Milton or Jordan Goodwin, acquiring him would be a straightforward decision given his defensive prowess and potential fit.
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Gabriele Procida set to join Real Madrid after turning down Virtus Bologna
Real Madrid is strengthening its backcourt by signing Italian wing Gabriele Procida, as reported by Chema de Lucas. The 23-year-old rejected an offer from Virtus Bologna to join the Spanish club. Procida demonstrated significant growth during his third EuroLeague season with ALBA Berlin, averaging 9.7 points and 2.2 rebounds across 26 games. His performance earned him the 2024 EuroLeague Rising Star award. With ALBA Berlin exiting the EuroLeague to join the FIBA Champions League, Procida became a highly sought free agent. Real Madrid acted swiftly to secure the explosive wing, adding him to their offseason acquisitions that already include Theo Maledon and David Kramer. Selected 36th overall in the 2022 NBA Draft, Procida began his professional career in Italy with Cantù and Fortitudo Bologna before transitioning to the EuroLeague stage.
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Yang Hansen’s Nikola Jokic Statement Goes Viral
The Portland Trail Blazers surprised the NBA by selecting 7-foot-3 prospect Yang Hansen significantly higher than most experts predicted during the draft, a move driven by his perceived star potential. Hansen made a notable NBA Summer League debut with the Trail Blazers, recording 10 points, 4 rebounds, 5 assists, and 3 blocks. While his size is an advantage, his diverse skill set was particularly highlighted. His performance, especially his playmaking ability for a player of his stature, drew immediate comparisons to Denver Nuggets superstar Nikola Jokic. Analysts praised his exceptionally high basketball IQ, crafty footwork, and all-around skills that impact multiple statistical categories. Following his debut, Hansen generated viral attention with his humorous response when asked what he would ask Jokic when facing him: "Picture? Signature, please?" This interaction further endeared him to fans. Hansen has quickly become a fan favorite at the Summer League, with many noting that modeling his game after the three-time MVP Jokic seems like an ideal path given his size and developing skills.
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'The next Jokic', Portland Trail Blazers fans go crazy over Yang Hansen’s Summer League performance
Portland Trail Blazers fans witnessed the debut of their first-round draft pick, Yang Hansen, at the NBA Summer League and immediately drew comparisons to Nikola Jokic due to his playmaking skills as a 7'1" center. Selected 16th overall in the draft—a surprise as he was considered a reach at that position—Hansen impressed with 10 points, 5 assists, 4 rebounds, and 3 blocks in his opening game, sparking excitement among supporters who are already calling him the future face of the franchise. The Chinese center entered the draft with significant hype from his home country, and his performance amplified comparisons to Jokic, fueled by his work ethic and court vision as a big man. Fans took to social media to question if he should have been the top pick over Cooper Flagg, with one stating that watching Hansen play made them doubt Flagg's selection, while another argued Hansen might have the highest upside in his draft class. After just one Summer League appearance, Blazers fans escalated their enthusiasm, declaring Hansen the cornerstone of the team and ranking him among franchise legends like Damian Lillard and Clyde Drexler. The Jokic parallels intensified, with one fan noting Hansen's physicality as a sign of potential stardom and another labeling him the "next Jokic" after a single assist, reinforced by a Nuggets source referring to him as the "Chinese Jokic."
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Baskonia has five days to match Valencia’s offer for Darius Thompson
Darius Thompson has concluded his two-year stint with Turkish club Anadolu Efes and is set to return to Spain. He previously played in Spain during the 2022-23 season. Valencia Basket has made an offer for the 30-year-old playmaker. However, his former club Baskonia, where he debuted in the EuroLeague, holds "tanteo rights," giving them five days (until July 17, 2025) to match Valencia's offer. If Baskonia does not match, Thompson will join Valencia under coach Pedro Martinez. This move would mark Thompson's third EuroLeague appearance, having previously competed in the competition with both Baskonia (where he earned All-EuroLeague Second Team honors) and Anadolu Efes. In the 2024-25 season, he averaged 9.5 points, 4.5 assists, and 2.0 rebounds per game. Thompson began his overseas career with Leiden (2018-19), spent two years with Brindisi (2019-2021), and played in the EuroCup with Lokomotiv Kuban during the 2021-22 season before joining Efes.
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Sixers' ruthless strategy will soon deliver huge free agent steal
The Philadelphia 76ers have experienced a mixed offseason, highlighted by drafting V.J. Edgecombe third overall in the 2025 NBA Draft after Ace Bailey declined to work out for them. They re-signed Kelly Oubre affordably but lost Guerschon Yabusele to the New York Knicks. A key development involves restricted free agent Quentin Grimes, who sought a $25 million annual contract but faces limited market interest due to depleted league cap space. Grimes' situation favors the Sixers, as rumored interest from the Utah Jazz in clearing cap space for an offer sheet has not materialized. This increases Philadelphia's chances of retaining him, which would be significant given his outstanding performance last season: in 28 games after being traded from Dallas, he averaged 21.9 points, 5.2 rebounds, 4.5 assists, and 1.5 steals while shooting 47% from the field and 37% from three-point range. Retaining Grimes could help the Sixers recover from a season plagued by injuries to Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, and Paul George. However, Grimes might accept a one-year qualifying offer of $8.7 million, making him an unrestricted free agent in 2026 when more teams have cap space. This scenario would give Philadelphia one season of his services but complicate long-term retention. If Grimes takes the qualifying offer, the Sixers could trade him before the 2025-26 deadline to acquire assets. Alternatively, a less dominant statistical season might lower his market value next summer, potentially enabling Philadelphia to re-sign him long-term. Overall, the lack of competitive offers positions the Sixers to retain Grimes for evaluation alongside a healthier roster, with flexibility to extend or trade him later.
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Dodgers Having Kobe Bryant Bobblehead Giveaway For Lakers Legend
The Los Angeles Dodgers will honor the late Lakers legend Kobe Bryant with a bobblehead giveaway for the first 40,000 fans attending their game against the Toronto Blue Jays on Friday, August 8. The unique bobblehead depicts Bryant in Lakers home attire (yellow jersey and shorts with a purple stripe) positioned in the batter's box at Dodger Stadium, wearing blue cleats. Its color scheme combines traditional Lakers and Dodgers colors. The tribute recognizes Bryant's entire 20-year career with the Lakers (1996-97 to 2015-16), during which he won five NBA championships. His accolades include the 2007-08 NBA MVP award, two NBA Finals MVP awards, two scoring titles, 12 All-Defensive team honors, and 15 All-NBA selections. Bryant holds the Lakers franchise records for points (33,643 - 4th all-time in NBA/ABA history), 3-pointers (1,827), steals (1,944), and games played (1,346), and ranks second in assists (6,306). The news also provides a brief update on both teams: the Dodgers currently possess the best record in the National League at 56-38, while the Lakers are coming off a first-round playoff exit against the Minnesota Timberwolves.
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Knicks’ dream backup point guard is going to slip through their fingers
The New York Knicks are actively searching the market for a veteran backup point guard to support starter Jalen Brunson, recognizing this as a crucial piece for their championship aspirations. However, they are severely constrained financially, operating with only the veteran minimum contract money remaining in their cap space and aiming to maximize value with this limited resource. A highly desirable but unlikely target is future Hall of Famer Chris Paul. The 40-year-old Paul, coming off a one-year deal with the San Antonio Spurs, is available. While the Knicks would welcome his elite playmaking skills (averaging 7.4 assists and 8.8 points last season on 42.7% shooting, including 37.7% from three) and proven durability (playing all 82 games), financial limitations make a deal difficult even at the minimum. Furthermore, reports indicate Paul prefers to stay in the Western Conference to be near his family. Despite the obstacles, Paul represents an ideal fit for the Knicks' need to maintain offensive flow when Brunson rests or is injured. Intriguing connections also exist: Paul's history with current Knick Mikal Bridges from their Phoenix Suns days and the fact that Knicks President Leon Rose was Paul's longtime agent.
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Ex-NBA Star's Strong Nikola Jokic Statement After Big Contract Decision
The Denver Nuggets are entering a new era with roster changes and a new full-time head coach, David Adelman. Nikola Jokic's upcoming contract decision is highly significant for the organization. Jokic is coming off a season where he was the NBA MVP runner-up, averaging 29.6 points, 12.7 rebounds, and 10.2 assists per game, and earning his seventh All-Star selection. The Nuggets have bolstered their roster this offseason, adding Cam Johnson, Jonas Valanciunas (via trade), Bruce Brown, and Tim Hardaway Jr., addressing their depth concerns from the previous season. Jokic recently declined a three-year, approximately $212 million extension offer. He is expected to wait until the summer of 2026 when he becomes eligible for a four-year deal worth between $285 million and $293 million. This decision could net him an additional $77-80 million due to an expected NBA salary cap increase. Former NBA All-Star Gilbert Arenas praised Jokic's decision on his show "Gil's Arena," stating that opting out of the current deal to sign a new contract later typically results in more money and gives the player leverage. Arenas suggested Jokic can use this leverage to influence team moves or leave if unsatisfied. Despite delaying his extension, Jokic is reportedly "pleased" with the Nuggets' offseason moves. With the new coach and improved roster, Denver aims to contend again in the 2025-2026 season.
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Nuggets Journal: With Jonas Valanciunas likely destined for Denver, David Adelman envisions another point center
Nuggets coach David Adelman envisions newly acquired center Jonas Valanciunas playing a "point center" role for Denver next season, replicating some of Nikola Jokic's function as an offensive hub. Adelman expressed this during an ESPN Summer League broadcast, believing Valanciunas's skill set allows the team to play combo guards without a traditional lead point guard, utilize five-out offense, operate from the elbow, and post him up, while also noting his underrated shooting ability. Despite Valanciunas expressing strong interest in an offer from Greek EuroLeague club Panathinaikos coinciding with the Nuggets trading for him on July 1st, league sources indicate the Nuggets expect him to honor his NBA contract. The Nuggets were initially unaware of the European offer, which jeopardized their backup center plans shortly after free agency began. Valanciunas himself stated he plans to travel to Denver once the trade is official. While the Nuggets had financial incentives to proceed with the trade (sending out Dario Saric's $5.4 million salary) even if Valanciunas didn't join, as his forfeiture of his $10.4 million salary would have saved them cap space, all signs now point to him being with the team for the 2025-26 season. Adelman's outlined role further solidifies this expectation. Adelman's vision aligns with the Nuggets' offseason moves to acquire more secondary ball-handlers like Bruce Brown and Tim Hardaway Jr., who aren't traditional point guards, alongside existing players Julian Strawther and Christian Braun. While Valanciunas (6-foot-11) isn't known for tight ball-handling, the Nuggets plan to limit his dribbling by running actions like dribble handoffs through him on the perimeter or playing off him at the elbow. Regarding Valanciunas's jump shot, which he is willing to use, the summary notes a caveat: Denver shouldn't over-rely on his three-point shooting. His three-point percentage over the last two seasons stands at 28.7%, suggesting his effectiveness is more reliable in the midrange.
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Alex Caruso Makes Honest Statement About Warriors Star Steph Curry
Alex Caruso, recognized as one of the NBA's premier defenders, recently helped lead the Oklahoma City Thunder to the 2025 NBA Championship victory over the Indiana Pacers. In a candid interview with Dan Patrick, Caruso discussed the challenge of defending Golden State Warriors star Steph Curry. He emphasized that Curry remains exceptionally dangerous even after giving up the ball, explaining that Curry's off-ball movement and strong connection with teammate Draymond Green make the Warriors' offense particularly difficult to defend. Despite being 37 years old, Steph Curry delivered outstanding individual performance during the 2024-25 season. He averaged 24.5 points, 4.4 rebounds, 6.0 assists, and 1.1 steals per game across 70 contests, shooting 44.8% from the field and 39.7% from three-point range. A significant milestone was reached as Curry tied Michael Jordan with 11 All-NBA selections. In his first season with the Thunder, Alex Caruso averaged 7.1 points, 2.9 rebounds, 2.5 assists, and 1.6 steals per game in 54 appearances, shooting 44.6% from the field and 35.3% from three-point range. Caruso achieved a unique NBA Finals record by becoming the first player in league history to score two 20-point games in the Finals after having zero such games during the regular season.
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Angel Reese fires back after Robert Griffin III reignites Caitlin Clark feud: ‘Nasty work’
Angel Reese criticized spreading false information for attention, calling it "nasty work," after sports commentator Robert Griffin III claimed someone from her inner circle told him she "hates" Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark. Reese did not name Griffin in her social media post but strongly implied she was responding to him, stating, "Lying on this app when everybody know the first and last name of everybody in my circle for clout is nastyyyy work." This followed Griffin's post condemning a racist tweet about Reese, who was recently announced as the NBA 2K26 WNBA Edition cover star. Griffin asserted that he had been quiet about Reese previously because a video she shared led to death threats against his family. However, he claimed, "I never attacked her or her family when I stated and backed up with clear basketball evidence that Angel Reese hates Caitlin Clark," adding that "people in Angel’s inner circle called me and told me I was right," attributing the supposed animosity to media comparisons. Griffin insisted his stance was not about race. Reese's mother, Angel Webb Reese, directly refuted Griffin's claims on social media. She stated that the narrative of a personal feud between her daughter and Clark is "a media/fandom made up beef" and challenged Griffin's assertion about someone from Reese's circle contacting him, writing, "My daughter’s ‘circle’ is so small & tight so I’d be interested 2 know who called U... Whomever U say ‘called’ U is not in her circle." She told Griffin to "stay on that side" as "the doors are closed over here." The article notes that Clark (drafted #1 by the Fever in 2024) and Reese (drafted #7 by the Sky) have consistently described their relationship as purely competitive, with nothing personal off the court. Their rivalry gained prominence after Reese's "you can’t see me" gesture towards Clark during LSU's win over Iowa in the 2023 NCAA championship game. Griffin faced backlash for reposting the racist tweet depicting Reese as a monkey. While he unequivocally condemned the racism – stating "Angel Reese or any Black man or woman should never be called or depicted as a Monkey. Ever" and "There is no place for racism in this world" – he doubled down on his claim about Reese's inner circle. In a subsequent tweet, he insisted, "I spoke up in support of Angel Reese against racism not to start drama," but maintained the truth of his claims, advising Reese to "tighten up your circle."
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LeBron James, Lakers 'Uncertainty' Drove One Veteran Free Agent to Sign With a Rival
LeBron James' decision to opt into the final year of his contract with the Los Angeles Lakers, worth $52.6 million, sent shockwaves throughout the NBA. According to ESPN, the news caused a "tizzy" among league executives who attempted to "decode" the message conveyed by James' agent, Rich Paul. This move, placing James on a lame-duck contract entering 2025, reportedly had an immediate impact on free agency. Center Brook Lopez, who league sources indicated had strongly considered joining the Lakers for a potential starting role, instead opted to sign with the LA Clippers. Lopez reportedly grew wary of the uncertainty surrounding James' future with the Lakers. His deal with the Clippers is a two-year, $18 million contract where he will back up center Ivica Zubac. ESPN characterizes the Lakers' current situation as navigating "the most delicate superstar transition in NBA history," shifting from LeBron James to 26-year-old phenom Luka Doncic.
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Nuggets fans don't want to hear this Nikola Jokic extension comp
Nikola Jokic declined a max contract extension this summer, meaning he will enter next offseason with only one year left on his current deal. This situation mirrors that of De'Aaron Fox, who similarly declined an extension with the Kings, requested a trade before signing a new contract, and was eventually dealt to the Spurs. While there's currently no indication Jokic won't sign the max extension (worth three years and $282 million) next summer to stay in Denver, the potential for change exists. The outcome of the upcoming season is a significant factor. While the Nuggets' offseason moves look promising, uncertainties remain: veteran stars might decline, young players might not develop as hoped, and new additions might not fit seamlessly. If the Nuggets don't appear as genuine title contenders, Jokic, who prioritizes winning, might consider if he has a better chance elsewhere, potentially leading him to look beyond Denver despite it seeming out of character. However, key differences distinguish Jokic's situation from Fox's. Jokic has achieved immense success in Denver, winning three MVP awards and a championship, building a historic resume. The Nuggets haven't failed him throughout his career, unlike Fox's experience in Sacramento, where he earned only one All-Star appearance and one playoff series loss in seven-plus seasons. The Kings, not a top-tier franchise, and Fox, not a top-tier player, mutually realized a split was needed. In contrast, Denver has largely supported Jokic and provided opportunities for success, meaning there's no current reason for Nuggets fans to panic.
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Nikola Jokić Dealt to NBA East Powerhouse for 5-Time All-Star in League-Changing Mock Trade
The article compares Nikola Jokić to Wilt Chamberlain as the only NBA centers with similar all-court skillsets. Chamberlain holds career advantages in points (30.1 vs. 20.9) and rebounds (22.9 vs. 10.7), while Jokić surpasses him in assists (6.9 vs. 4.4), though Chamberlain had seasons averaging 7.8 and 8.6 assists. Chamberlain has four MVPs to Jokić's three, but Jokić remains a favorite (+200) for the 2025-26 MVP. Jokić's future with the Nuggets is uncertain as he has delayed signing a three-year, $200 million extension before the October 20 deadline. Waiting until the 2026 offseason allows him to add a fourth year worth $77 million. While Jokić is a valued teammate focused on team success, if he signals plans to test free agency, Denver would likely trade him to avoid losing him without compensation. The article suggests the New York Knicks, positioned well in the injury-affected Eastern Conference, could pursue Jokić. A proposed trade package includes Karl-Anthony Towns, Jamal Murray, Mikal Bridges, Josh Hart, and Christian Braun. This core (aged 24-30) plus multiple future first-round picks would keep Denver competitive for several seasons. While acknowledging Denver might struggle against teams like the Thunder without Jokić, the article contends this trade scenario represents a viable path forward if Denver must part ways with the superstar, offering both immediate competitiveness and long-term assets.
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Tyrese Proctor Update: A Good Start To Summer League Play
Tyrese Proctor, as anticipated, was selected in the second round of the NBA Draft by the Cleveland Cavaliers. The situation is viewed positively, as Cleveland is recognized for intelligent roster building and having good players. Following the draft, Donovan Mitchell called Proctor to welcome him to the team. Proctor expressed his eagerness to learn from Mitchell, specifically by observing his daily work habits and aiming to "be a sponge". Proctor also highlighted the importance of defense, a principle instilled in him by Duke coach Jon Scheyer, stating it makes a player valuable "no matter where you go". In his first summer league game, Proctor's offensive performance included scoring 14 points on 5-13 shooting overall and 3-7 from three-point range, along with one rebound, two assists, and two steals. Notably, former Miami player Norchad Omier also played well in that game for Cleveland, scoring 17 points on 7-10 shooting and grabbing nine rebounds.
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Sparks go quietly in loud loss to first-place Lynx
The Minnesota Lynx defeated the Los Angeles Sparks 91-82 at Crypto.com Arena on Kids Day, creating an exceptionally loud atmosphere dominated by children's screams. Despite the Sparks riding the loud support to an early 16-0 run in the first quarter, they trailed by 21 points by the end of the third quarter. A subsequent 17-0 Sparks run wasn't enough to overcome the deficit. A key factor in the loss was the Sparks committing 22 turnovers compared to the Lynx's 10, leading to 23 points off turnovers and 22 more shot attempts for Minnesota. Combined with the Lynx's top-rated defense under Coach Cheryl Reeve, this proved insurmountable for the Sparks. Sparks coach Lynne Roberts praised Minnesota as a disciplined "machine" and Reeve as the league's "matriarch," while guard Kelsey Plum acknowledged the difficulty of giving the best team easy scoring opportunities. Lynx star Napheesa Collier, the WNBA's leading scorer (23.9 ppg) whose team leads the league at 18-3, led her team onto the court following her All-Star selection (she and teammate Courtney Williams will participate). However, guard Natisha Hiedeman powered the Lynx in the first half, scoring 16 of her 18 points. Hiedeman benefited from the Sparks double- and triple-teaming Collier in the paint, hitting two first-quarter 3-pointers on kick-out passes.
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Kevin Durant's situation takes major turn after Devin Booker's record deal
Devin Booker's recent two-year, $145 million max extension with the Phoenix Suns has shifted attention to Kevin Durant's contract situation with the Houston Rockets. As a 36-year-old future Hall of Famer, Durant now holds significant leverage in negotiations, with Booker's deal setting a new benchmark for elite wing players on short-term contracts. Durant's performance remains elite—averaging 26.6 points on 52.7% shooting last season while maintaining status as one of the league's most efficient isolation scorers. The Rockets initially acquired him to accelerate their timeline and mentor young talent, implying a long-term commitment. However, this necessitates offering Durant a substantial extension comparable to Booker's deal to retain him beyond his 2026 free agency. Houston faces considerable risk if they hesitate to meet Durant's expectations. Should the Rockets balk at a similar contract, Durant could leave in 2026 despite being 37, as multiple teams would likely pursue his elite scoring and veteran leadership. This potential disconnect threatens to shorten Durant's tenure in Houston, undermining their original vision for his role in their championship contention plans.
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Oklahoma City Thunder’s biggest mistake in 2025 NBA free agency
The Oklahoma City Thunder, after winning 68 regular-season games and the NBA championship in 2025 with a historically great net rating and deep roster, opted for a conservative free agency focused on retaining their core. They secured massive long-term extensions for their three young stars: reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (4-year supermax up to $285M through 2030-31), All-NBA player Jalen Williams (5-year rookie max extension up to $287M), and Chet Holmgren (5-year max rookie extension worth $250M). This locks in their core trio (ages 26, 24, and 23) and positions them as a potential dynasty. Despite maintaining their championship roster, the Thunder failed to address a significant weakness identified during their title run: the lack of a strong, physical center. While Chet Holmgren is praised for his mobility, versatility, and elite help-side rim protection, his slender frame (208 pounds) makes him vulnerable to being overpowered in the post by larger, dominant centers like Joel Embiid, Nikola Jokic, or Jonas Valančiūnas, especially in the physical context of a playoff series. The article suggests the front office may be overlooking this vulnerability by not acquiring a true interior enforcer.
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SummerKnicks Game Preview: Knicks vs. Pistons, July 11, 2025
The New York Knicks begin their 2025 NBA Summer League schedule tonight at 6:00 PM ET against the Detroit Pistons in Las Vegas. The game will be televised on ESPN2 and NBA TV, and can also be streamed on ESPN+, NBA League Pass, and other streaming services. New York's Summer League roster features a combination of returning players like Pacome Dadiet, Kevin McCullar Jr., Tyler Kolek, and Ariel Hukporti, alongside newcomers Dink Pate, James Nnaji, and Mohamed Diawara. The team is coached by Knicks assistant Jordan Brink, noted for his elite challenge success rate. Other notable players include Anton Watson, MarJon Beauchamp (both with brief prior Knicks experience), and G League veteran Yudai Baba. While Summer League performance isn't necessarily indicative of regular-season success, the roster presents key questions, such as potential improvements from Kolek, offensive flashes from Dadiet, or whether the new players can establish themselves. A gambling disclaimer is included, advising those with gambling problems to call 1-800-GAMBLER or other state-specific helplines (MA, MD, NY, CT), noting services are for 21+ (18+ D.C.) in select states.
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Nuggets fans will love what Cam Johnson just admitted about Nikola Jokic
Denver Nuggets fans quickly embraced the Cam Johnson trade after initial surprise, having anticipated a Michael Porter Jr. trade but not expecting a player like Johnson in return. Johnson and fellow new Nugget Tim Hardaway Jr. appeared on "The Young Man and The Three" podcast, where host Tommy Alter asked them what they most looked forward to about playing with Nikola Jokic. Both players immediately broke into huge smiles, with Johnson giving an honest and amusing response: "Honestly, a big part of it is not having to play against him anymore because he's a problem. That's it, period." Johnson elaborated on Jokic's abilities, calling them "uncanny," praising his spatial awareness, feel for the game, and unique understanding. He stated Jokic is one of the best players currently and in league history, emphasizing that his statistical output over recent years is unmatched and not accidental. Johnson highlighted that guarding Jokic is essentially an impossible task, making the minutes when he's off the floor crucial for opponents, a situation the Nuggets might address with the Jonas Valanciunas trade. Johnson explained that Jokic impacts the game in numerous ways and will positively affect both his and Hardaway's performance, finding them for open shots even without looking directly at them. He stressed that there is "absolutely nothing" like playing alongside Jokic. Johnson also discussed other new teammates, noting the Nuggets are overall a tough team to guard, mentioning Jamal Murray, Aaron Gordon, and Christian Braun. He expressed confidence that he and Hardaway will fit into this environment, acknowledging the Nuggets needed shooters and the front office addressed that need. The addition of players like Hardaway, Johnson, and Bruce Brown significantly strengthens the Nuggets, with Hardaway pointing out that Denver's ability to take Oklahoma City to seven games in the semifinals without these additions was impressive. With the offseason moves, opposing teams face a major challenge, as Jokic is far from being their only defensive concern, though he remains the biggest.
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Lakers forward, guard predicted to leave for Nuggets to help Nikola Jokic after contract news
A trade proposal by Dan Favale suggests the Los Angeles Lakers could make a franchise-altering move by trading LeBron James and his son Bronny James to the Denver Nuggets. The proposed deal would send LeBron and Bronny James to the Nuggets in exchange for guard Jamal Murray, forward Peyton Watson, center DaRon Holmes, and a 2028 first-round pick swap. Favale argues LeBron, described as a "basketball sicko," would see value in joining forces with Nikola Jokic, and Bronny's inclusion solves any potential objections. Favale acknowledges the Nuggets would become thinner by losing two rotation players (Murray and Watson) for essentially one (LeBron), but contends it's manageable given offseason additions like Bruce Brown and Tim Hardaway Jr. Losing Holmes would only be significant if Jonas Valančiūnas leaves Denver. The trade represents swapping youth for the 41-year-old LeBron. Favale suggests Denver might prefer this direction, highlighting that Murray is about to start a lucrative four-year, $207.8 million extension and Watson is eligible for an extension now. However, the likelihood of the Lakers trading LeBron James is questioned. A report from Sam Amico cites an anonymous scout who is "100% certain" the Lakers will retain James even if he requests a trade.
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