The United States will enter the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup in August as the second- ranked country in the world.

Yes, the second-ranked country.

For the first time in more than a decade, US men’s basketball slipped to No. 2 in the FIBA world rankings back in November. The top spot currently belongs to Spain, winners of the 2022 FIBA EuroBasket—the championship of Europe for men’s national teams—and the 2019 FIBA World Cup (a tournament in which the Americans finished seventh). The US does not send its A-team to events such as the FIBA AmeriCup, where it came in third last year after being knocked out by Argentina, but the results of those tournaments still impact the rankings. And while the squad put together for the Tokyo Olympics emerged victorious two summers ago, it lost to France during the preliminary round and only won by 5, 87-82, in a rematch in the Final. 

You don’t have to look hard for proof that the game is growing around the world. The three finalists for the 2023 NBA MVP hailed from countries outside the United States—winner Joel Embiid (Cameroon) and runners-up Nikola Jokic (Serbia) and Giannis Antetokounmpo (Greece)—as well as six of the top eight vote-getters. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Canada) finished fifth, followed by Domantas Sabonis (Lithuania) in seventh and Luka Doncic (Slovenia) in eighth. This marked the fifth straight season that a foreign-born player was crowned MVP, dating back to Antetokounmpo’s first triumph in 2019.

Most of those stars have confirmed that they intend to play in the upcoming World Cup, which will take place in the Philippines, Japan and Indonesia. This year’s event will be the second to feature 32 teams and the first to be hosted by multiple nations. It’s also the gateway to the 2024 Olympics in Paris, as seven countries will qualify based on their performances: two from the Americas, two from Europe, one from Africa, one from Asia and one from Oceania.

For the US, the tournament will be far from a cakewalk, regardless of who lands on the team’s final roster. 

“There are quality players around the world—I think we’re starting to see that,” says Carlan Gay, deputy editor at The Sporting News and an announcer for international competitions. “Four of the five that finished at the top of the MVP voting aren’t American born—that just tells you that the world isn’t catching up, it has caught up.” 

“I think that we have this idea that, well, if it’s not American, it’s not as good,” says Jeff Taylor, an international basketball commentator since 1997. “I understood immediately watching the [1997] EuroBasket—watching a game between Poland and Germany—I was struck by how good they were.” 

Taylor has covered most of FIBA’s flagship events since then, observing firsthand how the level of talent has risen in other countries. “It’s grown exponentially,” he tells SLAM. “I think it was already good at the time, but I think there are different factors at work here [that have made it even better].”

For one, an increasing number of Europeans jumped to the NBA in the late 1990s and early 2000s. The success of guys like Dirk Nowitzki, Pau Gasol and Tony Parker helped erase stigmas about foreign players—mainly, that they were too soft and not athletic enough to succeed in the States—and inspired others to follow in their footsteps.

Emerging talents overseas join top professional organizations as teenagers, where they are exposed to elite coaching and stiff competition that accelerates their development. Doncic signed a five-year contract with Real Madrid at the age of 13, and No. 1 NBA draft prospect Victor Wembanyama has been a pro since he was 15. Of course, those high-level prospects also join their respective national team programs early on, which facilitates even more growth.

“There’s more opportunity for development within your national team program [overseas],” says University of Alabama assistant coach Ryan Pannone, who has previously coached in the NBA, G League, China Germany, Slovakia and Israel. “And the pressure those guys are playing under and the pride for their national teams is really high. [For example], Luka was playing within the national team obviously from a very young age in Slovenia, and he was in the academy within Real Madrid in Spain. So he’s getting professional coaching seven days a week from coaches whose full-time jobs are to make sure he develops; and then in the summer, he’s in the national team system of Slovenia, where he’s playing in high-pressure-filled games.”

Basketball journeyman Scotty Hopson, who has played in 10 countries and suited up for the 2018 USA World Cup Qualifying Team, notes that the “athleticism level” has increased among international players. “Whenever I go to these countries and play against other teams and players, I feel like they always have a knowledge of basketball that’s pretty high level,” says Hopson. “And now you add the component that guys are starting to get more athletic, starting to understand how to take care of their bodies, how to train more.”

It’s important to mention that the FIBA game is different—harder, in a lot of ways. Quarters are 10 minutes long as opposed to 12. The court is smaller (91 feet-10 inches by 49 feet-2.5 inches, compared to the NBA’s 94 feet by 50 feet), and the three-point line is about a foot closer. There’s no defensive three seconds, and goaltending rules are modified: players are allowed to swat the ball off the cylinder as soon as it touches the rim.

All of these changes result in a distinct style of play: more strategic and methodical, less spaced. Teams value possessions more because there are fewer of them. On defense, it’s easier to pack the paint and provide help. Closeouts are faster—there’s not as much ground to cover—so coaches emphasize shooting and making quick reads. “The game internationally can be very physical, very tactical. And if you’re going to play it, you have to be very intelligent,” explains Taylor.

“The game in Europe is way harder than the game in the NBA,” Antetokounmpo said last September. “The talent obviously in the NBA is way higher, but the space [is better]—you have a lot of lanes to drive the ball, a lot of lanes to create. Over there it’s more intense.” 

During the 2022 FIBA EuroBasket last summer, Antetokounmpo had to work extremely hard for his points, as opponents clogged the middle and sent double or triple teams his way. “And in the past, this has helped me a lot, like when I came back from [the World Cup] in 2019,” he added. “That was the year we went to the bubble. The first couple of games, I felt like the court was huge.”

“Is it harder? Yes, because I think you really need to have quick thinking,” Jokic said about the international game after EuroBasket. “In the NBA, if you go by the guy, you can see the help is coming. In Europe, help is always there. So you need to think and play ahead.” That challenge helped Jokic evolve into the playmaker that he is today and made transitioning to the NBA much easier. Similarly, Doncic told SLAM in 2022: “I think from [Europe] comes my reading the game, all the passing skills.”

Thus, current and future NBA players can benefit tremendously from participating in FIBA events, especially given the intensity of those environments. Many of those players also assume bigger roles for their national teams, which allows them to showcase other parts of their games. Utah Jazz forward Lauri Markkanen, for example, shined as the number one option for Finland at the 2022 EuroBasket, averaging 27.9 points on 54 percent shooting from the field and 41 percent from three.

When he returned to the States for the 2022-23 NBA season, Jazz head coach Will Hardy encouraged Markkanen to play exactly as he had for Finland—confident, assertive, in more of a central role. And Markkanen had the best year of his NBA career, making his first All-Star team and winning the Most Improved Player award.

Says Coach Pannone, who was an assistant for the New Orleans Pelicans in 2022-23, “Obviously, Lauri Markkanen and the way that panned out doesn’t happen for every [NBA] team, but [FIBA events] certainly give you the chance to see one of your players in more of a star role—how they’re used, how they handle it, how successful they are. And you get that opportunity without it costing you games by trying to experiment with that throughout the NBA season.”

Markkanen will be with Finland again this summer for the World Cup. Other international players expected to compete include Antetokounmpo, Doncic, Jokic, Gilgeous-Alexander, Sabonis, Wembanyama, Rudy Gobert (France), Karl-Anthony Towns (Dominican Republic), Kristaps Porzingis (Latvia), Franz Wagner (Germany), Josh Giddey (Australia), Nikola Vucevic (Montenegro), Jordan Clarkson (Philippines) and more. The US will likely enter the tournament as a significant favorite, but the depth of talent this year will once again make the road to the Naismith Trophy very difficult.

“Whether you’re from the United States or not, there’s going to be amazing competition here because the level of basketball in this World Cup, I think, will be unprecedented,” NBA deputy commissioner Mark Tatum said during an episode of One Sports’ The Game.

Defending champions Spain should have another formidable roster, led by veteran point guard Ricky Rubio, MVP of the 2019 FIBA World Cup, and Willy Hernangomez, MVP of the 2022 FIBA EuroBasket. Australia, ranked third, should have Giddey and several other NBA players, including Patty Mills, Joe Ingles, Matisse Thybulle, Josh Green and Jock Landale. The likely presence of Antetokounmpo, Doncic and Jokic ensures that Greece, Slovenia and Serbia will all be tough opponents. Canada could be stacked with household names: Gilgeous-Alexander, Jamal Murray, RJ Barrett, Andrew Wiggins, Kelly Olynyk, Dwight Powell, Lu Dort, Dillon Brooks and more. And then, of course, there’s France, a country that nearly toppled the United States in the Tokyo Olympics and should have a similar squad, plus the 7-4 phenom Wembanyama. 

The list of worthy competitors for the ’23 World Cup title goes on and on—each one composed of prideful players determined to reach the podium for their countries. 

“You can go down the list of guys who really take pride in putting on that [national team] jersey,” says Gay. “I don’t think it’s something that we truly understand in North America—how much passion there is for basketball outside of these borders and how much passion there is for performing on the world stage for your country—because of the NBA factor. I think kids around the world grow up not dreaming to be in the NBA but dreaming to play and win a World Cup and win an Olympic gold medal.”

“Representing your national team, it’s heavy,” said Antetokounmpo in September. “You represent your whole country.”

Asked about facing Antetokounmpo during the 2019 FIBA World Cup, then-United States head coach Gregg Popovich said this of international superstars: “When they play for their countries, we like to say that they become superheroes. They get together and, through their relationships and their views about their game, they just form a team that—they fall in love with each other. They enjoy playing with each other. And that goes across the board for everybody that’s in the tournament. A lot of them have grown up together, a lot of them have spent a lot of time playing together, and you can see that.”

“The biggest advantage I felt like [other countries] had was that those teams play together for years and years and years,” Hopson reiterates. He speaks from experience, having lost to a cohesive and well-coached Argentina squad during qualifiers for the 2019 FIBA World Cup. “You’re going into a situation where you’re playing against guys who have probably been playing together since they were kids. They have an advantage with that because the chemistry is already built.” 

Combine that chemistry with the rising talent and the hunger of players to win for their countries and the US will certainly have its hands full trying to reclaim the World Cup title and the No. 1 FIBA ranking.

“The gap has closed, but also, the fear factor is gone,” Gay says. “No one’s afraid to play Team USA. In fact, they’re circling that date on the calendar to try to make history.”

SLAM 244 is also available in this exclusive Gold Metal Edition.

Photos via Getty Images.

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The injury happened in Charlotte and started a wild string of injuries for the Nets.

Before Dinwiddie was injured, numerous trade rumors were swirling around involving Dinwiddie and eventual-now-former Net James Harden. If Dinwiddie had not gotten hurt, then there is a huge chance he might have been involved in a trade deal for Harden. Had Dinwiddie stayed in Brooklyn, he would have played a significant role as the primary point guard because of the vaccination rules situation with Kyrie Irving.

Due to the injury, Dinwiddie was traded as part of a 5-team sign-and-trade that dealt him to the Washington Wizards.

Let it fly pic.twitter.com/W3U2W50lL6

— Dallas Mavericks (@dallasmavs) October 26, 2022

Dinwiddie was always a media favorite during his time as a Net. After the Maverick’s win against the Nets Thursday night, Dinwiddie was asked if he ever thought about how his career would look if his time in Brooklyn never ended on an ACL tear.

“I don’t know if the trade still happens or not or if I’m in it,” Dinwiddie said per The Athletic. “Regardless of whether it happens or not, I believe the Nets are a championship team. Just because if you look how close that team was, we were steamrolling people before I got hurt. Even if they make the trade and I’m in it, that means they probably get to keep one of Caris (LeVert) or Jarrett (Allen), which obviously really would have been needed. Or I’m not in it; it means I’m still here, and I’m with Harden. So either way you slice it, all three of those scenarios, the team probably wins the championship.”

The Nets would definitely benefit from an energetic rim protector like Jarrett Allen right now, who has emerged as an All-Star center since signing a five-year deal worth $100 million with the Cleveland Cavaliers. Though Nets coach Steve Nash said a while ago, he wasn’t sure the team would have been able to offer Allen the five-year, $100 million contract he got from the Cavs. Ironically since all this, Allen and Caris LeVert have reunited and are once again on this year’s Cavs squad.

One thing is for sure; both guys are currently making huge differences for their respective teams. It is still early in the season, so there is still a ton of optimism for Net’s fans that the team will be able to turn things around. The team, without question, has enough talent to make a deep playoff run with a lineup headlined by Irving, Kevin Durant, Patty Mills, and Ben Simmons.

Just need to give them some time and let the chemistry develop because they still have a long season ahead.

The post Spencer Dinwiddie Opens Up About Getting Traded After His Knee Injury appeared first on SLAM.

That news came just a day before the Nets announced that Kevin Durant had decided to rescind his trade request and that he and the franchise “have agreed to move forward with our partnership.” The Nets are likely confident KD and Kai, combined with the healthy returns of Ben Simmons and Joe Harris, the free agent acquisitions of Royce O’Neal and T.J. Warren, and re-signing Patty Mills and Nic Claxton, will help the team make a return to title contention.

However, there is one team that lost out on some superstar talent after Brooklyn decided to keep Irving on the roster, the Lakers. The Lakers were reportedly keen on acquiring Irving through trade this offseason and set up negotiations with third teams like the Pacers and Spurs to make it happen. Trade talks never materialized, though, and now the purple-and-gold will have to search the market a little longer to find more talent.

“We told you a month ago it was not gonna happen,” Charania said about an Irving-Lakers trade during an appearance on the Pat McAfee Show. “As of right now, the Lakers are open to anything that will make their team better. So if there’s a deal out there and they can go get multiple different players, that makes the team better.

"We told you a month ago that Kyrie to the Lakers wasn't gonna happen.. the Lakers are open to anything that will make their team better" ~@ShamsCharania#PMSLive pic.twitter.com/Swjio4siWD

— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) August 23, 2022

Charania added that the Lakers would be looking to add rotation players that they can plug into their lineup. The insider believes players like Patrick Beverly and Bojan Bogdanovic will be targeted in trades during the season.

“Those are the type of moves you’re gonna see the Lakers try to make. I don’t think that they’re done necessarily. I think they’re still gonna try to get this team better. Yes, Kyrie Irving to the Lakers, for now, is not a thing.”

The Lakers will look to improve after adding rookie head coach Darvin Ham, who they hope can turn around Russell Westbrook’s Lakers tenure and help Anthony Davis get back to his top-five player status after a rash of injuries doomed his season and the Lakers’ title hopes over the last two seasons.

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Although the Nets have yet to gain traction on a trade, new suitors have emerged in the KD sweepstakes. The Celtics, Raptors, and Heat are the biggest threat to land the 12-time All-Star, but Shams Charania of The Athletic reported that the Nets, and those three front-runners, haven’t been having any conversations lately.

Charania reported that the 76ers expressed their interest in acquiring Durant while the Bucks and Nuggets reached out in June and inquired again in July to determine Brooklyn’s asking price. That asking price is still an All-Star, other high-level players, and draft picks to this day. When the Pelicans inquired with the Nets in June, they reportedly told Brooklyn that Brandon Ingram was untouchable, per Charania. Atlanta reportedly offered John Collins, De’Andre Hunter, and a draft pick.

Because of that high price tag, suitors like Toronto possibly pulled out after refusing to make Scottie Barnes available. Boston made Jaylen Brown, Derrick White, and a first-round pick available, but Brooklyn didn’t bite. According to Charania, Miami hasn’t offered a package built around Bam Adebayo.

The Memphis Grizzlies have reportedly become the newest trade suitor. Memphis could put together an attractive package surrounding their five first-round draft picks, four unprotected and one protected 2024 pick via Golden State, and young players like Jaren Jackson Jr., Desmond Bane, Zaire Williams, Brandon Clarke, Kennedy Chandler, and David Roddy.

Despite all the new traction in trade partners, Boston is still the premier front runner to acquire Durant. When Boston offered Brown, White, and a draft pick, Brooklyn countered by requesting Smart, more draft picks, and one more rotation player per Charania. While Boston has the assets to make something happen, there appears to be a reported gap in what the Celtics are willing to let go.

Brooklyn believes they have improved their roster after trading for Royce O’Neal, signing T.J. Warren, and re-signing Patty Mills and Nic Claxton while expecting the healthy returns of Ben Simmons and Joe Harris. Kyrie Irving is set to return as well after signing his player option. According to Charania, Irving has been working out with teammates and held a constructive dialogue with the Nets this offseason.

With four years remaining on Durant’s current deal, Brooklyn has no incentive to move the four-time scoring champ. Entering his age 34 season, Durant is less likely to sit out a season and has already dismissed rumors that he would rather retire than play for Brooklyn again.

The post REPORT: New Suitors Emerge in the Kevin Durant Sweepstakes appeared first on SLAM.

Sources: Kevin Durant informed Joe Tsai that he does not have faith in the Nets‘ direction. The meeting was described as transparent and professional, with a clear message: Keep me — or the GM and coach. https://t.co/W1voNf9MDC https://t.co/0lbBay2OxF

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) August 8, 2022

KD and Nets owner Joe Tsai reportedly had a meeting over the weekend in Londo, where the two-time Finals MVP reiterated his trade request and gave Tsai an ultimatum. According to Charania, Tsai will have to choose between Durant or keeping GM Sean Marks and Coach Steve Nash in the fold.

Durant also told Tsai that he doesn’t have faith in Brooklyn’s direction, according to Charania. Additionally, Charania reported that the Nets have direct knowledge of the reasons behind Durant’s trade request that came out a month ago. Brooklyn also understands that Durant is resolute in his trade request and wants a scenery change.

The Nets are coming off a tumultuous offseason after the Boston Celtics swept them in the first round of the conference playoffs. It began with the uncertainty around Kyrie Irving’s extension status that reached the point of Irving preparing a list of trade destinations he’d like to play for.

Despite Irving deciding to sign his player option for next year, Durant has been adamant about wanting to leave Brooklyn. The two reportedly want to play together, but Irving is prepared to play in a Nets uniform regardless of whether or not KD is on the team.

The Nets are hopeful about Ben Simmons’s and Joe Harris’s healthy return. They also added Royce O’Neale and T.J. Warren and brought Patty Mills and Nic Claxton back.

The Celtics, Raptors, and Heat are his most significant suitors this offseason after Phoenix re-signed Deandre Ayton to a record-restricted free agent offer sheet. Durant reportedly grew close to Coach Ime Udoka, the second-year head coach of Boston, while Udoka was on Brooklyn’s coaching staff and Team USA during the 2020 Olympics.

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Charania appeared on the “Pat McAfee Show” Tuesday to discuss NBA news and the Nets’ offseason storylines in light of Kevin Durant’s blockbuster trade request. His report comes three days after Chris Haynes of Yahoo! Sports reported that the Lakers and Nets are “actively engaged” in an Irving-Russell Westbrook trade package.

“There’s no traction on any type of a Lakers deal for Kyrie Irving,” Charania said. “There’s nothing new on that, and I’m not quite sure we’re gonna see that take place.”

It seemed as if Irving was committed to the Nets for the 2022-23 season after opting into his one-year player option last week, but the tables turned following Durant’s trade request.

Charania went on to say that Durant’s stance on a trade request has not changed, and there has been “no signal” that Durant will rescind his request. Charania noted, “if anything, that stance is expected to continue throughout this offseason.” 

The NBA insider claimed the Nets are operating as if Durant and Irving will remain with the team next season. The Nets signed T.J. Warren and Edmond Sumner on Tuesday and re-signed Patty Mills and Nic Claxton during Thursday’s first day of free agency.

Brooklyn is “open” to dialogue with other teams but will not trade Durant until the price threshold of “All-Star-type players [and] a boat load of draft picks” is met, according to Charania.

Charania’s statements match the reporting of ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, who appeared on SportsCenter Sunday to claim no traction between the Nets and Lakers on a deal surrounding Irving.

Wojnarowski insinuated that the Nets might remain patient in the cases of both Irving and Durant with the hope of receiving a better deal. While the Lakers and Nets seem to be on opposite sides, for the time being, a trade centered around Irving is certainly a possibility.

The post REPORT: ‘No Traction’ On Possible Kyrie Irving Lakers Trade appeared first on SLAM.

So far we have seen the Knicks land, Jalen Brunson, on a massive four-year deal, and Nikola Jokic and Karl-Anthony Towns have re-signed to their teams on supermax deals. Zach LaVine and Bradley Beal will remain with the Bulls and Wizards respectively after signing max deals. Young All-Stars like Ja Morant, Darius Garland, and Zion Williamson have also signed max extensions with their teams.

The Warriors will also look to be putting a different bench mob on the court this coming season after they let Gary Payton II, Otto Porter Jr., and Juan Toscano-Anderson walk away in free agency. The decision seems to imply that the Warriors will invest 100 percent into their win-and-develop model as they keep their championship core intact while empowering Andrew Wiggins, Jordan Poole, Jonathan Kuminga, James Wiseman, and Moses Moody.

Dallas Mavericks forward Maxi Kleber is finalizing a three-year, $33 million contract extension, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium. Kleber was entering the final year of his deal, now under contract through 2025-26.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) September 8, 2022

Montrezl Harrell is headed to Philly after a tumultuous offseason where he dealt with some legal troubles surrounding marijuana trafficking that was later reduced to misdemeanor possession in a Madison County (KY) courthouse. The charge will be expunged from his record in 12 months if Harrell doesn’t get in any more legal trouble.

James Harden recruited Harrell due to their relationship as teammates on the Rockets. Harrell is expected to bring some toughness and grit to a Philly team that needed a backup big man behind two-time MVP runner-up Joel Embiid.

ESPN Sources: Free agent C Montrezl Harrell is signing two-year deal with the Philadelphia 76ers, including a player option. Harrell brings more toughness to a team searching for it this offseason. He was Sixth Man of the Year with Doc Rivers/Sam Cassell in 2019-2020 w/ Clippers.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) September 6, 2022

Sources: The Toronto Raptors signed Thaddeus Young to a two-year, $17 million extension, which includes player incentive bonuses and a $1 million partial guarantee for the 2023-24 season, @hoopshype has learned.

— Michael Scotto (@MikeAScotto) July 5, 2022

Gary Harris’ two-year extension with the Orlando Magic is flat $13M each season. The second season is fully non-guaranteed, a league source told @spotrac.

— Keith Smith (@KeithSmithNBA) July 5, 2022

Sumner is fully recovered from a torn left Achilles that cost him the entire 2021-2022 season. He had been coming off his best NBA season with the Pacers prior to the injury, and now he’ll join the Nets’ backcourt rotation. https://t.co/5HfzZmkDZN

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 5, 2022

Free agent TJ Warren has agreed to a deal with the Brooklyn Nets, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 5, 2022

Free agent center Gorgui Dieng has agreed to a one-year deal with the San Antonio Spurs, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 5, 2022

Cole Swider signed a two-year Two-Way contract with the Los Angeles Lakers, a league source tells @spotrac.

— Keith Smith (@KeithSmithNBA) July 4, 2022

Free agent center Serge Ibaka has agreed to a one-year deal to return to the Milwaukee Bucks, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 4, 2022

The Brooklyn Nets signed Wake Forest Alondes Williams to a 2-way deal.

— Mike Vorkunov (@MikeVorkunov) July 4, 2022

Dragic is signing a one-year, $2.9M deal with the Bulls, sources said. https://t.co/f6VK9np1cf

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 3, 2022

Free agent Josh Okogie has agreed to a one-year deal with the Phoenix Suns, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 3, 2022

New Orleans Pelicans star Zion Williamson has agreed on a five-year, $193 million designated maximum rookie extension that could earn him as much as $231 million, CAA Sports’ Co-Head of Basketball Austin Brown tells ESPN. pic.twitter.com/z4lnVLD1GM

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 2, 2022

Restricted free agent Cody Martin has agreed to a four-year, $32 million deal to return to the Charlotte Hornets, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 2, 2022

Free agent G Eugene Omoruyi has agreed to a two-way contract with the Oklahoma City Thunder, his agent Mike George of @OneLegacySports tells ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 2, 2022

Cleveland Cavaliers All-Star guard Darius Garland has agreed on a five-year, $193M maximum designated rookie contract extension that could be worth as much as $231M, @KlutchSports CEO Rich Paul tells ESPN. It is the largest deal in franchise history.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 2, 2022

Free agent guard Damion Lee has agreed to a one-year deal with the Phoenix Suns, source tells ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 2, 2022

Free agent Donte DiVincenzo has agreed to a two-year, $9.3M deal with the Golden State Warriors, sources tell ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 1, 2022

Free agent guard Raul Neto is signing with the Cleveland Cavaliers, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 1, 2022

Free agent center Kevon Looney has agreed to a three-year, $25.5M deal to return to Golden State, sources tell ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 1, 2022

Free agent forward Derrick Jones Jr. has agreed to a two-year, $6.6 million deal to return to the Chicago Bulls, with player option in second season, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 1, 2022

Free agent center Robin Lopez has agreed to a one-year deal with the Cleveland Cavaliers, sources tell ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 1, 2022

Free agent F/C Drew Eubanks is returning to the Portland Trail Blazers on a one-year deal, his agent James Dunleavy of @excelbasketball tells ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 1, 2022

John Wall officially agrees with the Clippers on a two-year deal for the taxpayer midlevel. https://t.co/5yCuV4cePg

— Tim MacMahon (@espn_macmahon) July 1, 2022

Free agent C Jusuf Nurkic has agreed on a new four-year, $70 million deal to stay with the Portland Trail Blazers, @KlutchSports CEO Rich Paul tells ESPN. pic.twitter.com/6vmHrdOZI3

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 1, 2022

NBA All-Star Zach LaVine has agreed to a five-year, $215.2 million maximum contract to return to the Chicago Bulls, with a player option in Year 5, Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul told @TheAthletic @Stadium.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 1, 2022

The defending champs lose another valuable two-way star after Otto Porter Jr. signed with the Raptors on a two-year deal that has a player option.

Free agent Otto Porter Jr. — vital member of Golden State Warriors championship team — reached an agreement with the Toronto Raptors on a two-year deal with a player option, league sources tell @YahooSports. https://t.co/ck81fptKZh

— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) July 1, 2022

Free agent G Theo Pinson is returning to the Dallas Mavericks on a one-year deal, sources tell ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 1, 2022

Free agent Aaron Holiday has agreed to a one-year deal with the Atlanta Hawks, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 1, 2022

Free agent center Mitchell Robinson has agreed on a new four-year, $60 million contract to stay with the New York Knicks, his agents Thad Foucher and Joe Smith of @Wassbasketball tell ESPN. pic.twitter.com/dnKtVQmln9

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 1, 2022

Bruce Brown has agreed to a 2-year, $13M+ deal with the Denver Nuggets, sources tell ESPN.

— Malika Andrews (@malika_andrews) July 1, 2022

#Pistons to re-sign Marvin Bagley III, add Kevin Knox as free-agent frenzy begins: https://t.co/WVHahAmeKR

— Rod Beard (@detnewsRodBeard) July 1, 2022

Ricky Rubio played an integral part in the Cavs’ resurgence to the playoff scene last season before suffering a season-ending torn ACL in December. Rubio was traded to the Pacers near the trade deadline but the Cavs and Rubio were mutually interested in bringing back the former lottery pick point guard.

Free agent guard Ricky Rubio is nearing a deal on a return to the Cleveland Cavaliers, sources tell ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 1, 2022

Zion Williamson, the 2021 All-Star phenom, has locked in on signing a max extension deal with the Pelicans. Williamson missed all of the 2021-2022 season while he recovered from foot surgery. The deal keeps Williamson in New Orleans through 2027-28.

Williamson said after the season ended, “I couldn’t sign it fast enough.” Indeed, the All-Star locks in commitment to New Orleans.

The deal is expected to include protections that both sides were sorting through overnight and will finalize, sources said. https://t.co/n0hyRwRk9e

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 1, 2022

The Golden State Warriors lose one of their best and most versatile defenders after Gary Payton II decided to head towards playing for the Portland Trail Blazers on a three-year deal. Payton led the League in steals per 36 minutes.

Warriors were unwilling to meet that high of a price tag (and resulting tax spike) for Gary Payton II and have now lost their defensive ace off the bench to the Blazers. He led the NBA in steals per 36 minutes last season. https://t.co/iaY6xmUrG7

— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) July 1, 2022

Free agent center Andre Drummond is finalizing a deal with the Chicago Bulls, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 1, 2022

Free agent Kevin Knox has agreed to a two-year, $6 million deal with the Detroit Pistons, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 1, 2022

Free agent Kevin Knox has agreed to a two-year, $6 million deal with the Detroit Pistons, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 1, 2022

Free agent JaVale McGee has agreed to a three-year, $20.1 million deal with the Dallas Mavericks, with player option for third season, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 30, 2022

Ja Morant is locked in with the Grizzlies after his agent told Woj that he signed a five-year max extension to lead Memphis as its lead guard for the foreseeable future.

Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant has agreed on a five-year, $193M designated rookie maximum extension that could become worth $231M, his agent Jim Tanner of @_TandemSE tells ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 1, 2022

Karl Anthony-Towns has reportedly agreed to a four-year super max extension per his agent. KAT’s contract will begin during the 2024-2025 season.

Minnesota Timberwolves star Karl-Anthony Towns has agreed on a four-year, $224M super max extension, his agent Jessica Holtz of @CAA_Basketball tells ESPN. Deal begins with the 2024-25 season and delivers Towns’ total contract value to six years and $295M.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 1, 2022

Jalen Brunson has reportedly agreed to the four-year deal that the Knicks offered him. Woj reported that the near-max deal includes a player option on its final season.

Free agent guard Jalen Brunson has agreed to a four-year, $104 million deal with the New York Knicks, his agents Aaron Mintz and Sam Rose of @CAA_Basketball tell ESPN. The deal includes a player option on the final season.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 1, 2022

The Wizards have added three veteran guards to join Bradley Beal in recent days — Will Barton, Monte Morris and now Delon Wright leaves the Hawks for Washington. https://t.co/4YFMxR2o7Z

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 1, 2022

Kyle Anderson has agreed to a two-year, $18M deal to join the Timberwolves, his agents Thad Foucher and Joe Smith of @wassbasketball tell ESPN. https://t.co/fWzhFhVfkx

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 1, 2022

Orlando Magic guard Gary Harris has agreed on a two-year, $26 million contract extension, his agents Austin Brown and Aaron Mintz of @CAA_Basketball tell ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 1, 2022

Anthony Gill is signing a two year-deal with the Washington Wizards, sources tell ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 30, 2022

Restricted free agent C Nic Claxton has agreed on a two-year, $20 million deal to return to the Brooklyn Nets, sources tell ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 30, 2022

Free agent Troy Brown Jr. has agreed to a minimum deal with the Los Angeles Lakers, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 30, 2022

Lonnie Walker IV is signing a one-year, $6.5M deal with the Lakers, sources said. https://t.co/7xBnStLWfo

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 30, 2022

Rockets restricted free agent Jae’Sean Tate has agreed to a three-year, $22.1 million deal to return to Houston, his agents E.J. Kusnyer and Jordan Cornish of @beyond_am tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 30, 2022

Free agent center Dewayne Dedmon has agreed to a two-year, $9 million deal to return to the Miami Heat, agents Mike Silverman and Brandon Grier of @steinbergsports tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 30, 2022

Free agent Davon Reed has agreed to a two-year deal to return to the Denver Nuggets, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 30, 2022

Free agent guard Jevon Carter has agreed to a two-year deal to return to Milwaukee, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 30, 2022

Free agent Wesley Matthews has agreed to a one-year deal to return to the Milwaukee Bucks, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 30, 2022

Free agent G Trevelin Queen has agreed a deal with the Philadelphia 76ers, sources tell ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 30, 2022

Free agent F Nic Batum has agreed to a two-year deal to return to the Los Angeles Clippers, sources tell ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 30, 2022

Free agent G Lu Dort has agreed to a five-year, $87.5M deal to stay with the Oklahoma City Thunder, his agent Thad Foucher of Wasserman tells ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 30, 2022

Chris Boucher is returning to the Toronto Raptors on a three-year, $35.25M deal, his agent Sam Permut of @RocNationSports tells ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 30, 2022

Jones’ agent, Austin Brown of @CAA_Basketball, tells ESPN the second year is a player option.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 30, 2022

Amir Coffey has agreed to a three-year, $11M deal with the Clippers, his agents Bill Duffy and Marlon Harrison of @BDA_Sports and WME Sports tell ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 30, 2022

Free agent G Tyus Jones is returning to the Memphis Grizzlies on a two-year, $30M deal, his agent Kevin Bradbury of @REP1Basketball tells ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 30, 2022

Free agent Danuel House has agreed to a deal with the Philadelphia 76ers, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 30, 2022

Free agent Bobby Portis has agreed to a four-year, $49 million deal to return to the Milwaukee Bucks, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium. Deal includes a player option in Year 4.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 30, 2022

Free agent PJ Tucker is finalizing a three-year, $33.2 million fully guaranteed deal with the Philadelphia 76ers, his agent Andre Buck (@andrebuck14) told @TheAthletic @Stadium.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 30, 2022

Free agent Victor Oladipo has agreed to a one-year, $11 million deal to return to the Miami Heat, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 30, 2022

Free agent center Isaiah Hartenstein has agreed to a two-year, $16 million-plus deal with the New York Knicks, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium. Fully guaranteed deal for Hartenstein.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 30, 2022

Free agent center DeAndre Jordan has agreed to a deal with the Denver Nuggets, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 30, 2022

Sources: Malik Monk is signing a two-year, $19M deal to join the Kings. https://t.co/spgbvRZspx

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 30, 2022

Devin Booker and the Phoenix Suns have reportedly finalized a four-year supermax extension that he will likely sign sometime next week. Shams Charania reports that he will be the cover athlete for NBA 2K23.

The Phoenix Suns and All-NBA guard Devin Booker are finalizing a four-year, $214 million supermax contract extension that he’s set to sign as soon as next week, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.

Booker will also be the cover athlete for NBA 2K23, per sources.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 30, 2022

Nikola Jokic has reportedly signed the richest deal in NBA history after signing a supermax contract extension with the Nuggets on Thursday.

Two-time NBA MVP Nikola Jokic has agreed to a five-year, $264 million supermax contract extension with the Denver Nuggets, the richest deal in NBA history, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium. Fifth season (2027-28) will be a player option at $60M.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 30, 2022

Bradley Beal will stay in the Nation’s Capital after he reportedly signed a five-year max deal.

All-Star guard Bradley Beal has agreed to a five-year, $251 million maximum contract to stay with the Washington Wizards, his agent Mark Bartelstein of @PrioritySports tells ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 30, 2022

Portland Trail Blazers guard Anfernee Simons has agreed on a four-year, $100 million contract extension, his agent Bill Duffy of @BDA_Sports + WME Sports tells ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 30, 2022

The Spurs are pulling the qualifying offer on Lonnie Walker IV, making him an unrestricted free agent, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium. Expect a strong market for Walker immediately.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 30, 2022

Jalen Brunson is headed to New York after Shams Charania reported that he intends on signing a four-year deal with the franchise.

Free agent Jalen Brunson intends to sign a four-year, near $110M deal with the New York Knicks in free agency, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium. The Mavericks never received chance to make offer, sources said.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 30, 2022

According to Alex Schiffer of The Athletic, P.J. Tucker will be pursued by Atlanta, Minnesota, Brooklyn, Chicago. and Philadelphia during the free agency period of the NBA offseason. Furthermore, Schiffer reports that Tucker is unlikely to return to South Beach.

Multiple teams — including Atlanta, Minnesota, Brooklyn, Chicago and Philadelphia — are expected to compete for PJ Tucker in free agency. All are expected to offer the full mid-level/TPMLE exception. He is unlikely to return to Miami, per sources.

— Alex Schiffer (@Alex__Schiffer) June 30, 2022

Trent Forrest will be an unrestricted free agent after the Jazz decided not to extend a qualifying offer to the point guard out of Florida State.

The Utah Jazz will not extend a qualifying offer to point guard Trent Forrest, making him an unrestricted free agent, League Sources tell The Athletic. There is interest in working something out during free agency. Forrest was a member of the rotation this past season

— Tony Jones (@Tjonesonthenba) June 30, 2022

Per Marcus Thompson of The Athletic, Juan Toscano-Anderson will be an unrestricted free agent once the free agency period of the NBA offseason begins on Thursday. The 29-year-old became the first Mexican-American to win an NBA title after the Warriors won the 2022 NBA Finals.

“I got a championship with my hometown team,” JTA told Thompson during a phone interview Wednesday night.

“I’m stamped in the Town. I’m stamped in my country. That shit can’t nobody take from me. You’ve got to give a little to get a little. And I gave up playing time to, you know, become a legend. I’m a legend in the Town. I’m a legend in Mexico. And I’m not saying that myself. It’s showing, know what I mean?”

Juan Toscano-Anderson is at peace with leaving the Warriors.

“I’m stamped in the Town. I’m stamped in my country. That shit can’t nobody take from me.”

It’s time for the next chapter of his storybook journey.https://t.co/m94B7ILm2u pic.twitter.com/5OxoGWXG6P

— Marcus Thompson II (@ThompsonScribe) June 30, 2022

According to Tim Reynolds, the Heat does not have a meeting scheduled with restricted free agent Jalen Brunson on Thursday.

The Heat are not planning to meet with Jalen Brunson today, and they did not have such a meeting scheduled, per league source.

— Tim Reynolds (@ByTimReynolds) June 30, 2022

The Cavs are reportedly expected to match offers given to restricted free agent Collin Sexton. Multiple reports say Sexton wants a “starting guard” extension. The Alabama product is coming off a season-ending torn meniscus.

Cavs Expected To Match Outside Offers For Collin Sexton – Hoops Wire https://t.co/9k5zuRmUAd

— Sam Amico (@AmicoHoops) June 30, 2022

The Jazz won’t extend a qualifying offer to forward Eric Paschall, sources tell @Tjonesonthenba.

He will become an unrestricted free agent.https://t.co/fcOCtqEmMN pic.twitter.com/ok07Xpx9Dr

— The Athletic NBA (@TheAthleticNBA) June 30, 2022

Kemba Walker and the Pistons have reportedly agreed to a contract buyout. Walker will be a free agent after he clears waivers. Walker last played for the Knicks last season before he was traded to the Pistons as New York clears space to sign fellow free agent Jalen Brunson.

Four-time All-Star guard Kemba Walker and the Detroit Pistons are finalizing a contract buyout, sources tell ESPN. Once Walker clears waivers, he’ll join free agency.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 30, 2022

Per Anthony Chiang of the Miami Herald, the Heat have guaranteed the contracts of Max Strus, Gabe Stevenson, and Omer Yurtseven as of Thursday morning.

Max Strus, Gabe Vincent and Omer Yurtseven are still on the Heat’s roster this morning, which means their full $1.8 million salaries for next season are now guaranteed. This was seen as a formality. Carry on.

— Anthony Chiang (@Anthony_Chiang) June 30, 2022

The Sacramento Kings are exercising the option on PF/C Chimezie Metu for the 2022-2023 season, sources tell ESPN. Metu averaged 8.9 points and 5.6 rebounds in 21 minutes a game for the Kings last season.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 29, 2022

Patty Mills will be exploring his options on the free-agent market after declining to sign his player option with the Nets on Wednesday afternoon.

Brooklyn Nets guard Patty Mills declined his $6.2M option and will become a free agent, sources tell ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 29, 2022

The Kings won’t be offering a qualifying offer to Donte DiVencenzo, making him an unrestricted free agent.

The Sacramento Kings are declining to offer Donte DiVencenzo a qualifying offer, which will make him an unrestricted free agent, sources tell ESPN. There will be significant interest in DiVencenzo on the open market.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 29, 2022

Lu Dort will be a restricted free agent after the OKC Thunder decided to not sign Durt’s team option for the 2022-23 season, per Shams Charania.

The Oklahoma City Thunder are declining the $1.9 million team option on froward Lu Dort for 2022-23 season, which makes him a restricted free agent and allows sides to negotiate a new deal in free agency, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 29, 2022

James Harden will hit the free-agent market for the first time in his career but he is likely to re-sign with the 76ers.

ESPN Sources: 76ers star James Harden has declined his $47.3M option and become a free agent. He keeps real the possibility of negotiating a new deal that would deliver the Sixers roster-building flexibility in free agency – including use of the full $10.5M exception.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 29, 2022

Bobby Portis told the Bucks that he’ll decline his player option and will instead become a free agent.

Portis has early bird rights in Milwaukee.

The maximum that he can sign for is 4 years/$49M.

The contract has to be for a minimum of 2 seasons and cannot include an option in year 2. https://t.co/Nu5KC9G8D9

— Bobby Marks (@BobbyMarks42) June 29, 2022

Bradley Beal has made his long-awaited decision and will become a free agent for the first time in his career after declining his player option.

Washington Wizards star Bradley Beal has declined his $36.4M option and become a free agent, his agent Mark Bartelstein of @PrioritySports tells ESPN. Beal is eligible to sign a 5-year max to return to Wizards – or sign elsewhere on a 4-year deal.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 29, 2022

Jae-Sean Tate will be a restricted free agent after the ROckets declined his team option for the 2022-23 season. Shams Charania reports that Houston and Tate are mutually interested in signing a new deal once free agency begins on Thursday.

The Houston Rockets have declined forward Jae’Sean Tate’s $1.8 million team option for next season, making him a restricted free agent, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium. Rockets and Tate have mutual interest in discussing new deal in free agency beginning Thursday night.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 29, 2022

The Cavaliers have reportedly elected to not offer Moses Brown a qualifying offer to Moses Brown, per Michael Scott of the Hoopshype. The decision allows Brown to enter the free-agent market as an unrestricted free agent.

Sources: The Cleveland Cavaliers won’t tender a qualifying offer to center Moses Brown, @hoopshype has learned. The 7-foot-1, 22-year-old center will become an unrestricted free agent. Brown could be an intriguing development option for NBA teams around the league.

— Michael Scotto (@MikeAScotto) June 28, 2022

According to Adrian Wojnarowski, Taurean Prince and the Timberwolves have reportedly agreed to a two-year contract extension.

Minnesota Timberwolves F Taurean Prince has agreed on a two-year, $16 million contract extension, sources tell ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 29, 2022

Ivica Zubac and his reps have reportedly agreed to a three-year extension with the Clippers, per Woj. The Clippers declining to sign his team option led to the agreement with Zubac.

Los Angeles Clippers center Ivica Zubac has agreed on a three-year, $33 million extension, his agents Jeff Schwartz and Mike Lindeman of @excelbasketball tell ESPN. The Clippers declined his $7.5M team option for 2022-2023, clearing the way for Zubac’s new deal.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 28, 2022

Tony Bradley is reportedly opting into his player option and will remain with the Bulls next season, per Woj.

Chicago Bulls center Tony Bradley is exercising his $2M player option for next season, sources tell ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 28, 2022

The post 2022 NBA Free Agency Tracker appeared first on SLAM.

Here’s our No. 21-11:

21. 2015-16 Golden State Warriors

Coach: Steve Kerr (Luke Walton, Interim Head Coach)

Record: 73-9

Roster: Leandro Barbosa, Harrison Barnes, Andrew Bogut, Ian Clark, Stephen Curry, Festus Ezeli, Draymond Green, Andre Iguodala, Shaun Livingston, Kevon Looney, James Michael McAdoo, Brandon Rush, Marreese Speights, Jason Thompson, Klay Thompson, Anderson Varejao

Never before in NBA history had a team finished the regular season with a single digit in the loss column. When these Dubs did it, fresh off the first of what seemed sure to be three or five or 10 titles with the Curry-Thompson-Green core, a championship seemed like almost a formality—and even more so when they took a seemingly insurmountable 3-1 lead in the Finals. Only then it was Cleveland’s turn to make history.

20. 2015-16 Cleveland Cavaliers

Record: 57-25

Roster: Jared Cunningham, Matthew Dellavedova, Channing Frye, Joe Harris, Kyrie Irving, LeBron James, Richard Jefferson, Dahntay Jones, James Jones, Sasha Kaun, Kevin Love, Jordan McRae, Timofey Mozgov, Iman Shumpert, JR Smith, Tristan Thompson, Anderson Varejao, Mo Williams

There would be no shame in a second straight Finals loss to the mighty Warriors—no shame for LeBron, Kyrie and Kevin in falling short against the historically elite Dubs. There would be disappointment, sure, that the title LeBron came back to Cleveland to win, as part of arguably the most talented team in Cavs history, simply wasn’t meant to be. But this was Cleveland. They were used to disappointment. They weren’t used to making history. Until they did.

19. 1991-92 Chicago Bulls

Coach: Phil Jackson

Record: 67-15

Roster: BJ Armstrong, Bill Cartwright, Horace Grant, Bob Hansen, Craig Hodges, Dennis Hopson, Michael Jordan, Stacey King, Cliff Levingston, Chuck Nevitt, John Paxson, Will Perdue, Scottie Pippen, Mark Randall, Rory Sparrow, Scott Williams

One title, against an aging Lakers team, did not make a dynasty, and so the Bulls came into the ’91-92 season motivated for more. Those 67 regular-season wins were a statement, as was another MVP award for Michael Jordan (30.1 ppg, 6.4 rpg, 6.1 apg). But as ever, the playoffs were where it mattered, and Chicago needed to survive a seven-game series with the Knicks en route to the Finals. Once there, a hungry and talented Portland team promised to make the Bulls earn it. And so they did.

18. 2013-14 San Antonio Spurs

Coach: Gregg Popovich

Record: 62-20

Roster: Jeff Ayres, Aron Baynes, Marco Belinelli, Matt Bonner, Shannon Brown, Austin Daye, Nando De Colo, Boris Diaw, Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobili, Danny Green, Damion James, Othyus Jeffers, Cory Joseph, Kawhi Leonard, Patty Mills, Tony Parker, Tiago Splitter, Malcolm Thomas

The whole thing with the Spurs’ post-millennial dominance was that it was Duncan, Parker and Ginobili, and then whatever spare parts Coach Pop managed to perfectly align around them. It wasn’t supposed to be like this: A 22-year-old, third-year forward who averaged 12.8 ppg in the regular season emerging as the most impactful player in the entire postseason, including a Finals MVP performance in a five-game humbling of the Heat. This Kawhi Leonard guy might be pretty good.

17. 1997-98 Chicago Bulls

Coach: Phil Jackson

Record: 62-20

Roster: Keith Booth, Randy Brown, Jud Buechler, Scott Burrell, Jason Caffey, Ron Harper, Michael Jordan, Steve Kerr, Joe Kleine, Toni Kukoc, Rusty LaRue, Luc Longley, Scottie Pippen, Dennis Rodman, Dickey Simpkins, David Vaughn, Bill Wennington

The Bulls kept the gang together for the “Last Dance,” and the result was a sixth title in eight years. There was plenty of tension and pressure. As usual, Michael Jordan was a hard-driving, big-scoring winner, while Scottie Pippen rode shotgun. Toni Kukoc did a bit of everything, and Dennis Rodman pounded the boards. Chicago survived a seven-game thriller with Indiana to reach the Finals, then dispatched Utah in six to end it all in style.

16. 1966-67 Philadelphia 76ers

Coach: Alex Hannum

Record: 68-13

Roster: Wilt Chamberlain, Larry Costello, Billy Cunningham, Dave Gambee, Hal Greer, Matt Guokas, Luke Jackson, Wali Jones, Bill Melchionni, Chet Walker, Bob Weiss

After years of dominating the scorebook but not the winner’s circle, Wilt Chamberlain finally won a title. He did it by playing great defense, grabbing nearly every rebound and, amazingly, passing. He had plenty of targets. Hal Greer, Chet Walker, Billy Cunningham and Wali Jones were dangerous scorers, and few were tougher inside than Luke Jackson.
The Sixers whipped the Celtics in five to reach the Finals and then stopped the Warriors to give The Big Dipper a championship.

15. 1984-85 Los Angeles Lakers

Coach: Pat Riley

Record: 62-20

Roster: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Michael Cooper, Magic Johnson, Earl Jones, Mitch Kupchak, Ronnie Lester, Bob McAdoo, Mike McGee, Chuck Nevitt, Kurt Rambis, Byron Scott, Larry Spriggs, Jamaal Wilkes, James Worthy

The Lakers had lost in two straight Finals but ’84-85 would be different. L.A. trampled all Western Conference competition and was led again by maestro Magic Johnson. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar was still a force in the paint, while James Worthy, Byron Scott and Michael Cooper were a formidable supporting cast. After L.A. lost by 34 in the Finals opener, Abdul-Jabbar took over and was MVP of the Lakers’ first-ever championship win over Boston.

14. 1988-89 Detroit Pistons

Coach: Chuck Daly

Record: 63-19

Roster: Mark Aguirre, Adrian Dantley, Darryl Dawkins, Fennis Dembo, Joe Dumars, James Edwards, Steve Harris, Vinnie Johnson, Bill Laimbeer, John Long, Rick Mahorn, Pace Mannion, Dennis Rodman, Jim Rowinski, John Salley, Isiah Thomas, Micheal Williams

The Pistons won a title with a team as tough as their town. The Bad Boys were physical, to be sure, but they had plenty of talent. Isiah Thomas teamed with Joe Dumars in a lethal backcourt, with Vinnie Johnson providing heat off the bench. Rick Mahorn and Bill Laimbeer handled the rough stuff, and the mid-season trade for Mark Aguirre brought it all together. Detroit ended the Showtime era by sweeping the Lakers in the Finals.

13. 2017-18 Golden State Warriors

Coach: Steve Kerr

Record: 58-24

Roster: Jordan Bell, Chris Boucher, Omri Casspi, Quinn Cook, Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, Draymond Green, Andre Iguodala, Damian Jones, Shaun Livingston, Kevon Looney, Patrick McCaw, JaVale McGee, Zaza Pachulia, Klay Thompson, David West, Nick Young

For the Dubs, regular-season records had long since been rendered meaningless. This was about trophies, and the last of Golden State’s trio of titles ended up being its most conclusive. KD and Steph both missed chunks of the season but still functioned as the League’s most reliable cheat code when it mattered, and after a seven-game scare from Houston in the West Finals, the Warriors swept a depleted Cavs squad for the championship.

12. 1996-97 Chicago Bulls

Coach: Phil Jackson

Record: 69-13

Roster: Randy Brown, Jud Buechler, Jason Caffey, Bison Dele, Ron Harper, Michael Jordan, Steve Kerr, Toni Kukoc, Luc Longley, Robert Parish, Scottie Pippen, Dennis Rodman, Dickey Simpkins, Matt Steigenga, Bill Wennington

By now, it was only a question of how long they could keep it going. A year after that 72-win campaign, the Bulls started the ’96-97 season with 12 straight victories and had five winning streaks of seven games or more. The machine just kept humming right up until the Finals, and then, there was a moment in Game 6 when it looked like the Jazz might force a Game 7. But they didn’t, because against these Bulls, nobody ever did.

11. 1964-65 Boston Celtics

Coach: Red Auerbach

Record: 62-18

Roster: Ron Bonham, Mel Counts, John Havlicek, Tom Heinsohn, KC Jones, Sam Jones, Willie Naulls, Bevo Nordmann, Bill Russell, Tom Sanders, Larry Siegfried, John Thompson, Gerry Ward

The best team of Boston’s ’60s dynasty? It’s at least in the conversation. Six Celtics averaged double figures, led by Sam Jones’ 25.9 ppg. It was the last of Bill Russell’s five MVP seasons, and the last of Tommy Heinsohn’s Hall of Fame career. The defining moment, thanks to a legendary call by Johnny Most, came against Philly in Game 7 of the East Finals: “Havlicek stole the ball!” A 4-1 dispatching of the Lakers in the Finals was almost anticlimactic.

Read here to find out who made it on the rest of the list, including No. 75-66, 65-55, 54-44, 43-33 and 32-22.

Get your copy of SLAM Presents TOP 75 NBA Teams Of All Time

Photos via Getty Images

The post SLAM’s TOP 75 NBA Teams of All Time: No. 21-11 appeared first on SLAM.

Since spraining his knee in January, the Nets went from 27-15 to losing 11 straight games and struggling to stay in the play-in tournament with a 32-31 record. The teams’ makeup has also changed following the Nets’ blockbuster move to trade James Harden to Philly for Ben Simmons, Seth Curry, and Andre Drummond.

The play status of Kyrie Irving is also up in the air after New York lifted its masking mandate, although nothing has changed for private businesses’ mask mandates. With 19 games left in the regular season, there’s no better than the present for Brooklyn to make a move up the standings and reestablish themselves as the championship contender many around the League expected them to be.

Just don’t expect KD to fall into the narrative that he will be the main reason why that happens.

KD: “I don’t look at myself as that, as a savior. But I know what I can do and how much I can help this team and what we’re missing as a group, but I’m not trying to go out there and win a game by myself tonight or make it all about me. I just try to go out there and help.”

— Nick Friedell (@NickFriedell) March 3, 2022

Durant has averaged 29.3 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 5.8 assists. His return will boost a squad that has missed his production as the featured weapon of the Nets’ offense. Easy Money Sniper doesn’t need to consider himself the savior of the Nets’ season, but he has been sorely missed not just from an offensive standpoint but with his leadership as well.

Heading into their matchup with Miami on Thursday, the Nets will look to earn just their second win out of the All-Star break and prevent a three-game losing streak after losing to the Raptors in back-to-back contests. The weight of that will fall on Durant, Curry, and Patty Mills since Irving is still prohibited from playing home games.

The post Kevin Durant on His Return: ‘I Don’t Look at Myself as That, as a Savior’ appeared first on SLAM.

Despite Towns’ 41 percent shooting from distance this season and 39.6 percent career average, he was considered a long shot to win. Even with the number of long-distance shots KAT attempted this season, no one counted on the Wolves center in the shoot-out. 

First Round:

The early favorites going into the competition were Trae Young, Patty Mills, and Desmond Bane.

The #MtnDew3PT contest field is stacked!

It’ll be raining triples tonight in Cleveland… tune in at 8:00pm/et on TNT pic.twitter.com/aL9t3nLRfV

— NBA (@NBA) February 19, 2022

Bane took himself out of the competition early by tallying 18 points. Then Luke Kennard set the bar for the first round dropping 28 points to put pressure on the rest of the field. Then Towns became the most significant threat for the title, surprising many by putting up 22 points of his own.

Young provided some drama of his own by almost getting eliminated in the first round. He had to finish the round with a flurry to slide past Patty Mills by one point to get into the second round with 22 points.

Final Round:

KAT was the first shooter in the finals, and the way he shot the ball, everyone in the arena, including Ice Trae and Kennard, knew the competition was over. He made history and put on a show while doing it.

Towns concluded the event in epic proportions, taking home the shoot-out trophy in historic fashion by putting up 29 points beating renowned shooters Kennard and Young. KAT’s score broke the record for most points scored in the final round previously held by Devin Booker, who scored 28 back in 2018. 

The reigning champ is not only the first center to ever win the event, but the first big man since Kevin Love in 2012 to take home the award.

Karl-Anthony Towns is a career 39.6% three-point shooter, and now he has the hardware to match

Check out some of the best three-pointers from the 2022 #MtnDew3PT Champion Karl-Anthony Towns! pic.twitter.com/sMouEd4Brz

— NBA (@NBA) February 20, 2022

The post Karl-Anthony Towns Makes History In NBA All-Star Three-Point Shootout appeared first on SLAM.

TRADES:

The Lakers and Knicks didn’t make any moves according to Adrian Wojnarowski, the Lakers will reportedly be focusing on the buyout market.

No deal for the Lakers, source tells ESPN. THey’ll focus on the buyout market.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 10, 2022

Houston is trading Daniel Theis to the Celtics for Dennis Schroder, Bruno Fernando, and Enis Freedom. Freedom has been waived by the Rockets.

Boston is sending guard Dennis Schroder to the Rockets in the deal, source tells ESPN. https://t.co/4RFdjoULq3

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 10, 2022

The Wizards are trading Davis Bertans and Spencer Dinwiddie to the Mavericks for Kristaps Porzingis.

The Wizards will send Davis Bertans in deal too, source tells ESPN. Mavericks send a second-round pick to Wizards. https://t.co/RJdybUd0Lw

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 10, 2022

The Wizards are flipping Montrezl Harrell for Charlotte’s Vernon Carey and Ish Smith.

Charlotte is acquiring Washington center Montrezl Harrell for Vernon Carey and Ish Smith, sources tell ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 10, 2022

The Pacers are reportedly working on a deal to send Torrey Craig to the Suns for Jalen Smith.

The Celtics will acquire Derrick White from the Spurs.

Romeo Langford and Josh Richardson are included in the deal to the Spurs.

The Celtics are trading PJ Dozier and Bol Bol to the Magic for a future second-round pick.

The Celtics are trading PJ Dozier and Bol Bol, a future second and cash to the Magic for a future second-round pick, sources tell ESPN. Dozier and Bol are both out for the season. Cost-savings for Boston.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 10, 2022

The Spurs are working on a trade for Goran Dragic and are expected to buy out his contract. The Mavericks, Bucks, Bulls, and Clippers are reportedly interested in the Dragons services. Thad Young, Drew Eubanks, and a 2022 second-round pick are headed to the Raptors.

The Raptors are trading Dragic and protected 2022 first-round picks to the Spurs for Thad Young, Drew Eubanks and a 2022 second-round pick via Pistons, sources tell ESPN. Pick is protected 1-14 in 2022; 1-13 in 2023 and would turn into two seconds beyond that. https://t.co/SN0sFyVurm

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 10, 2022

The Bucks have traded Rodney Hood and Semi Ojele to the Clippers, Serge Ibaka to the Bucks, Donte DiVencenco to the Kings and Marvin Bagley is headed to the Pistons on Thursday according to Woj.

ESPN Sources:
Full trade participants:
Kings: Donte DiVincenzo, Trey Lyles and Josh Jackson.
Bucks: Serge Ibaka, two future second-round picks, cash.
Clippers: Rodney Hood, Semi Ojele.
Pistons: Marvin Bagley Jr.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 10, 2022

According to Adrian Wojnarowski, the Utah Jazz is receiving Nickeil Alexander-Walker and the Juancho Hernangomez of the Spurs in a three-way deal. Spurs receive Tomas Satoransky and a second-round pick, and the Blazers get Joe Ingles, Elijah Hughes, and a second-round selection.

The Utah Jazz are acquiring guard Portland’s Nickeil Alexander-Walker and the Spurs’ Juancho Hernangomez in a three-way deal, sources tell ESPN. The Spurs gets guard Tomas Satoransky and a second-round pick, and the Blazers get Joe Ingles, Elijah Hughes and a second-round pick.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 9, 2022

The Pacers are sending Domantas Sabonis, Jeremy Lamb, and Justin Holiday to the Kings for Tyrese Haliburton, Buddy Hield, and Tristan Thompson. 

Jeremy Lamb AND Justin Holiday. https://t.co/0GbRwKcRBP

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 8, 2022

The Pelicans receive CJ McCollum, Larry Nance, and Tony Snell in a trade with the Blazers. Portland gets Josh Hart, Tomas Satoransky, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Didi Louzada, and a protected first-round pick in the 2022 NBA Draft. 

Full trade, per sources:
Blazers: Josh Hart, Tomas Satoransky, Nickeil Walker-Alexander, Didi Louzada, 2022 protected first-round pick, two second-round picks.
Pelicans: CJ McCollum, Larry Nance, Tony Snell.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 8, 2022

The Pacers trade Caris LeVert and a 2022 second-round pick from Miami to Cleveland for Ricky Rubio, a lottery-protected 2022 first-round pick, 2022 second-round pick from Houston, and a 2027 second-round pick from Utah.

Full trade: Indiana sends Caris LeVert and a 2022 second-round pick via Miami to Cleveland for Ricky Rubio, lottery-protected 2022 first-round pick, 2022 second-round pick via Houston and a 2027 second-round pick via Utah, per sources.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 6, 2022

The Clippers and the Blazers agreed to a trade last week. The Clippers move Eric Bledsoe, Justice Winslow, Keon Johnson, and a future second-round pick to the Trail Blazers for Norman Powell and Robert Covington. 

The Clippers are trading Eric Bledsoe, Justise Winslow, Keon Johnson and future second-round pick to the Trail Blazers for Norman Powell and Robert Covington, sources tell ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 4, 2022

RUMORS:

REPORT: James Harden is pushing for a trade to Philadelphia by ‘screaming in every way he possibly can,’ to get out of Brooklyn.

James Harden is pushing for a trade and is ‘screaming in every way he possibly can’ to get out of Brooklyn, per @WindhorstESPN. https://t.co/D7l2VI9IZq pic.twitter.com/GcFCoivKjF

— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) February 9, 2022

REPORT: Philadelphia refuses to include Maxey in any deal, causing Brooklyn to counter with an asking price of Simmons, Curry, Thybulle, and Drummond. Philadelphia is hesitant to have Curry, though Mills would reportedly end up in Philadelphia.

Update: Sixers have refused to include Tyrese Maxey in any deal with Brooklyn. Nets have countered with an asking price of Simmons, Curry, Thybulle, and Drummond. Sixers are hesitant to include Curry. Any deal would likely send Patty Mills to Philly aside from Harden.

— Jason Dumas (@JDumasReports) February 9, 2022

Brooklyn needs to see Curry in the deal alongside Simmons for them to be willing to move Harden.

This is from Sunday night’s BS Podcast and nothing has changed — Brooklyn wants Seth in any Harden deal. (And Embiid loves playing with Curry.) pic.twitter.com/sTD2vyY1co

— Bill Simmons (@BillSimmons) February 9, 2022

Teams around the League think a deal between Philadelphia and Brooklyn is close to being done and that it would open the ‘floodgates’ if the agreement were to be done before tomorrow’s deadline.

It sounds like rival teams think a deal between Brooklyn and Philadelphia may be getting close. One team told me “They’ve kind of put other talks on hold. If that deal finally happens, then the floodgates will open around the league for a lot more to happen.”

— Keith Smith (@KeithSmithNBA) February 9, 2022

Philadelphia has talked to Oklahoma City about Tobias Harris, though it may be a ploy to put more pressure on Brooklyn to trade Harden before tomorrow’s deadline.

Now arrives another stretch of uncertainty, with the trade deadline approaching Thursday afternoon and sources telling The Inquirer that the Sixers have explored trading Tobias Harris. https://t.co/Kv6MEFjDDh

— The Philadelphia Inquirer (@PhillyInquirer) February 9, 2022

Buddy Hield may not end up in Indiana after claims of Pacers opening to flipping him to another team before the Thursday deadline.

Small trade note: As of now — and everything can change in the next 26 hours — the Indiana Pacers do not plan to trade Buddy Hield despite some interest from other teams, sources tell ESPN.

— Zach Lowe (@ZachLowe_NBA) February 9, 2022

Detroit is listening to offers for Jerami Grant but may wait until the offseason to move him. Detroit wants two first-rounders in exchange for Grant, and the Portland Trail Blazers have shown the most interest. 

Pistons Listening To Offers On Jerami Grant, Could Wait Until Offseason For Trade https://t.co/nImk0qLAHF

— RealGM (@RealGM) February 9, 2022

The post LIVE: NBA Trade Deadline Tracker appeared first on SLAM.

On Tuesday night, the NBA announced the eight players participating in the All-Star weekend three-point contest.

It’s a list of participants all seeking a first three-point contest championship, with most of the players participating in the event for the first time in their careers.

CJ McCollum and Zach LaVine are the veterans of the contest, with each having participated in two prior three-point contests. Trae Young is the only other player of the eight to have participated in a previous three-point contest, and this will be his second.

Karl Anthony-Towns, Fred VanVleet, LaVine, and Young, will also be playing in the All-Star Game the following night.

Patty Mills is the oldest player in the group at 33 years old, and there’s no question he can shoot the rock as a career 39.2 percent three-point shooter and is shooting 42.4 percent from distance so far this season. On the flip side, Desmond Bane – who is in his second NBA season – is the contest’s least experienced player but is shooting 42.1 percent from deep over his career.

Luke Kennard, though, maintains the highest three-point percentage of the eight players this season, knocking down 40.8 percent of his shots beyond the arc this season. Every player on the field is shooting better than 38 percent from three this season.

In addition to the three-point contest, the NBA also announced the dunk contest participants and skill challenge participants.

The NBA All-Star weekend begins on Friday, Feb. 18, with the three-point contest taking place on Saturday, Feb. 19, and the All-Star Game on Sunday, Feb. 20.

The post NBA Announces Three-Point Contest Participants appeared first on SLAM.

A Harris has been out since November after undergoing ankle surgery. Since he’s gone down, offseason free-agent signing Patty Mills has emerged as one of the Nets’ best shooters, averaging 13.8 points and 2.5 assists per game on 43.6 percent shooting on the field and 42.5 percent shooting from distance.

Mills’ emergence as a playmaking shooter as a plug-in starter and coming off the bench could possibly make Harris expendable to the Nets, who averages 11.3 points and 4.0 rebounds per game on 45.2 percent shooting from the field and 46.6 shooting from beyond the arc.

The post REPORT: Nets Are Shopping Sharpshooter Joe Harris appeared first on SLAM.

Our game against the Lakers on Sunday (originally scheduled for 2:30 pm CT) will now be at 7 pm CT. pic.twitter.com/j2NsD1VkYW

— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) December 14, 2021

The scheduling problems are due to ten Chicago players, some coaches, and media announcers currently being in the NBA’s health and safety protocols. With so many players unavailable, the Bulls used their hardship exemption to sign Stanley Johnson. However, they still face the possibility of not having the minimum amount of players (eight) to compete.

Reports from NBC Sports Chicago’s K.C. Johnson claim DeMar DeRozan, Coby White, Derrick Jones Jr., and Javonte Green could return for Sunday’s game pending the mandatory two negative tests in a 24 hour period.

By Sunday, White, Green, DeRozan (Dec. 15), Thomas (Dec. 17), and Jones Jr. (Dec. 18) will have passed 10 days in protocols, but they have more steps to take before becoming eligible to play. Zach LaVine, Stanley Johnson, Alize Johnson, Troy Brown Jr., Ayo Dosunmu, and Matt Thomas are out.

The Los Angeles Lakers have COVID issues with Talen Horton-Tucker, Dwight Howard, and Malik Monk recently being placed into protocols.

The post NBA Delays the Los Angeles Lakers-Chicago Bulls Game Due to COVID-19 appeared first on SLAM.

Nets are signing guard Langston Galloway to a hardship exception, sources tell ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) December 15, 2021

James Harden is the biggest name on the Nets long protocol list, including Bruce Brown, Paul Millsap, LaMarcus Aldridge, DeAndre’ Bembry, and Jevon Carter. The Nets recently only had the minimum number of players to play the Toronto Raptors, who they defeated 131-129 thanks to a monster effort by Kevin Durant and Patty Mills.

Kevin Durant & Patty Mills each drop 30+ in the @BrooklynNets overtime win!@KDTrey5: 34 PTS, 13 REB, 11 AST@Patty_Mills: 30 PTS (16 in 4Q), 7 3PM pic.twitter.com/EtAAweron3

— NBA (@NBA) December 15, 2021

The hardship exception allows NBA teams to exceed the mandated 15-man roster limit when at least four players are sick or injured for longer than two weeks. For a team to be eligible to participate in a game, eight players must be eligible to play.

Last season, Galloway played 40 games for the Phoenix Suns while averaging 4.8 points and 1.1 rebounds while shooting 42.4 percent from the three-point line. Previously Galloway has played with the Knicks, Pelicans, Kings, Pistons, and Suns since going undrafted in the 2014 NBA Draft.

The post Brooklyn Nets Sign Langston Galloway to Hardship Exception Contract appeared first on SLAM.

LaMarcus Aldridge, DeAndre Bembry, James Johnson, and Jevon Carter will join Paul Milsap, who the Nets announced on Monday will be out due to health and safety protocols. The Nets will be down five players going into Tuesday’s contest and possibly more. The Nets could also be down Kevin Durant, who was listed as questionable for the Raptors game per Marc Stein.

LaMarcus Aldridge, DeAndre Bembry, Jevon Carter and James Johnson join Paul Millsap in Covid protocols for the Nets now, team says. https://t.co/cWBi84sCmt

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) December 14, 2021

Brooklyn being so shorthanded will put more stress on James Harden, Blake Griffin, Patty Mills, and Durant (if he is cleared to play) to carry a heavier portion of the scoring and defensive duties until their teammates clear protocols.

The Nets are also entertaining the possibility of Kyrie Irving returning in a Nets uniform. The rumors have only amplified after the embattled superstar posted a video of him putting on a pair of signature sneakers onto his Instagram story.

Five Nets players entering health and safety protocols comes 10 days after Brooklyn faced the Chicago Bulls on Dec. 4. The Bulls are facing an outbreak that caused the League to postpone their next two games against the Pacers and Raptors.

The post Brooklyn Nets Are Facing A Outbreak After Five Players Enter Protocols appeared first on SLAM.

But there’s one name that currently sits atop the list that may come as a surprise, Jonas Valanciunas.

Valanciunas is currently the NBA’s leader in three-point percentage, shooting at an astounding 51.7 three-point clip, nearly four percentage points higher than Mills’ mark of 47.8.

Last season, Valanciunas was a 36.8 percent three-point shooter, and his previous career-best mark from beyond the line came from the 2017-18 campaign, where he shot 40.5 percent on 1.0 attempts per game.

Valanciunas’ numbers are helped out from his unbelievable effort on Monday night, where Valanciunas went 7-for-7 from deep in the first half of the Pelicans 123-104 win over the Los Angeles Clipper.

In total, Valanciunas ended the night with 39 points and 15 rebounds.

To be fair to others on the list, Valanciunas notably has fewer three-point attempts than others on the leaderboard, having shot 58 so far this season compared to Mills’ 138 attempts or Harris’ 88 attempts.

Valanciunas’ hot shooting start has not led to wins thus far for the Pelicans. So far this season, the Pelicans are 14th in the Western Conference with a record of 6-17, beating out only the 4-16 Houston Rockets. The Pelicans look to build on their latest win Tuesday against the Dallas Mavericks (10-9).

The post Jonas Valanciunas Has Emerged As the League’s Three-Point Percentage Leader appeared first on SLAM.

According to The Athletic’s Shams Charania, Millsap agreed to a deal with the Brooklyn Nets, joining one of the favorites to win the 2022 NBA Championship.

Charania also reported that Millsap had offers from various playoff contenders, including the Golden State Warriors, Chicago Bulls, and Los Angeles Clippers.

Millsap, who is 36-years-old, spent the past four seasons with the Denver Nuggets, playing in 215 games and averaging 11.8 points and 6.1 rebounds per game.

Over his career, Millsap has averaged 13.7 points and 7.2 rebounds per game in 1,057 career games.

A second-round pick in the 2006 NBA Draft, Millsap has been named to four All-Star teams, making the All-Defense team in 2015-16z

The only thing missing is an NBA Championship.

To that point, the Nets are coming off a very strong season, finishing second in the Eastern Conference, and will be returning all of Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving, James Harden, Joe Harris, Blake Griffin and Bruce Brown. Brooklyn also went out and acquired Patty Mills in free agency, while drafting Summer League standout Cam Thomas.

The post REPORT: Paul Millsap Signs Deal with Brooklyn Nets appeared first on SLAM.

In an interview with Sports Illustrated’s Michael Shapiro, Harden expressed his confidence in the Nets for the upcoming season while discussing myriad topics surrounding the construction of the team and his offseason focus.

“There’s no chip at all, no chip for us,” Harden says. “We’re just excited. We’re focused. We know what we have to do. The biggest thing is us being healthy, which we will be. Honestly, we’re just excited to play a whole season together. That’s the exciting part.”

As Harden alluded to, health will be at the forefront of discussion surrounding the Nets, with the durability of their three superstars in question.

Last season, Harden, two-time Finals MVP Kevin Durant and seven-time All-Star Kyrie Irving all missed significant time due to injury. While Harden played in just 44 games last year, KD only suited up for 35 regular season games and Irving played 54 games.

Nonetheless, the Nets finished second in the Eastern Conference with a 48-24 record, a testament to their talent.

Brooklyn would go on to lose in the second round to the Milwaukee Bucks, with Harden and Irving were unavailable for most of the playoffs.

Now, the Nets will be running it back with mostly the same squad, though guards Patty Mills (signed in free agency) and Cam Thomas (acquired via the 2021 NBA Draft) are two names to keep an eye on, especially should they need to step up in the event of injury.

The post James Harden on Nets next season: ‘At Full Strength, Nobody Can Beat Us’ appeared first on SLAM.

Revered worldwide as the most talented roster on the globe, the U.S. unexpectedly dropped an exhibition match against both the Nigerian and Australian men’s national basketball team prior to the official start of the Olympic Games and dropped one of their first game in the tournament to France.

Now, in the semifinals in a rematch with the Boomers—Australia’s men’s national basketball team—Team USA found themselves down by 15 points early in the game.

Australia, led by guard Patty Mills, came out with a practical game plan: play solid defense, and grind down the Americans.

However, there is one factor that even if the Australian team prepared for, they would find it nearly impossible to solve: offensive superweapon Kevin Durant.

Durant, a merciless scorer, put Team USA on his back in the first half with seven made baskets, finishing the game with a team-high 23 points. Led by Durant, Devin Booker and Jrue Holiday, the Americans stormed back, winning the game 97-78.

“When you are a great team and you’re playing a team who feels that it’s going to be tough to beat us, they’re going to come out and play their best brand of basketball,” Durant said. “They’re going to play perfect basketball, and I felt like that’s what they did in that first half, and once we went down three going into halftime, I felt like we had the game in hand.”

Team USA will now face off against France in the gold medal game.

France is coming off a nail-biting 90-89 victory over Slovenia, knocking out wunderkind Luka Doncic in the process.

If the Americans prevail, it will be their fourth straight gold medal in the competition.

The post After Rough Start, Team USA Dismantles Australia to Advance to Olympic Finals appeared first on SLAM.

The lone player still on the roster from the Spurs’ 2014 championship team, Mills chose Brooklyn as his next stop over the Los Angeles Lakers and Golden State Warriors.

Free agent G Patty Mills has agreed to a two-year, $12M deal with the Brooklyn Nets, his agent Steven Heumann of @CAA_Basketball tells ESPN. Deal includes a player option.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) August 3, 2021

A marksman from downtown, Mills will bolster the Nets spacing and back court depth, giving Brooklyn’s big three a knock-down shooter to kick it to in the corner. The 10-year vet hit a career-high 161 three’s last season and shot 41.3 percent on catch-and-shoot three’s.

Mills averaged 10.8 points per game along with 2.4 assists in his final season with the Spurs.

The signing of Mills has skyrocketed the Nets tax bill according to Bobby Marks, who projects their tax bill to increase from $92.6 million to $121.8 million.

Brooklyn tax bill

Before Patty Mills: $92.6M

Post: $121.8M

— Bobby Marks (@BobbyMarks42) August 3, 2021

Mills has currently led the Australian national team to the semi finals of the Olympics in which they’ll face his new teammate Kevin Durant and the rest of Team USA tonight.

The post Patty Mills Joins the Nets on a Two-Year, $12M Deal appeared first on SLAM.

According to Shams Charania of The Athletic, the Spurs are receiving and listening to calls on multiple rotation players: LaMarcus Aldridge, Patty Mills, DeMar DeRozan, Rudy Gay and Trey Lyles.

All five of these players have a wealth of NBA experience and could help nearly any contender get one step closer to making a deep playoff push.

It might make sense for the Spurs to be sellers at the deadline and move some of these veteran pieces who, coincidentally, are all set to be free agents this offseason.

With their core of young talent, this is the first time San Antonio has had four players under 30-years-old averaging double figures since their 2003 championship team. Consequently, with the young core of Dejounte Murray, Derrick White, Keldon Johnson and Lonnie Walker IV, San Antonio should be comfortable parting ways with a couple of these veterans and still being pretty competitive. 

If the Spurs are able to get more young talent or draft capital for guys like these, their future will only continue to get brighter. Especially in the player development system that has been put together in San Antonio, the more young talent, the better. 

The post Spurs Listening to Offers for DeMar DeRozan, LaMarcus Aldridge at Trade Deadline appeared first on SLAM.

This week, Mills took his efforts even further, founding the inaugural season of the Indigenous Community Basketball League for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders that are under 14 years old. The league, which is set to begin in February, will be run by Australia’s Indigenous Basketball America (IBA).

Per ESPN’s Jake Michaels, Mills says that “What we will do with the IBA programs and competitions has never been done before and is the first of its kind in this country’s sporting environment… It’s game-changing and we’re creating history.”

Mills’ rationale for starting the league with children and adolescents under the age of 14 is that “the early adolescence years are crucial for a child’s cognitive, emotional and social development – our complementary programs throughout the competitions of IBA will support these kids and their communities in embracing their culture and unlocking one’s full potential in an environment that is safe and free from any discrimination.”

However, Mills plans to expand the league to include a greater number of age groups. He also plans to extend the league to more regions, as it’s currently only being staged in eight locations, including the Torres Strait’s Thursday Island.

Now 32-years-old, Mills launched the Indigenous Basketball Australia initiative last July.

He also launched the Team Mills Foundation and made a pledge to donate more than $1 million of his salary to the Black Lives Matter movement in Australia and other social justice programs in both Australia and the United States.

The post Patty Mills Founds Inaugural Season Of Indigenous Community Basketball League appeared first on SLAM.

This year, Keldon Johnson and Lonnie Walker may just be polished enough for the Spurs to keep winning ball games while also shaping their future core. Dejounte Murray and DeMar DeRozan have looked nice so far but LaMarcus Aldridge has been slow out of the gates.

For more information about the numbers behind our Heat Check series, hop over to our main Heat Check 2020-21 post.

Dejounte Murray	18.5p, 7.5r, 7.3a
Keldon Johnson	12.3p, 7.0r, 2.8a
Lonnie Walker IV	14.3p, 4.0r, 2.0a
DeMar DeRozan	21.5p, 5.5r, 8.3a
Patty Mills	14.0p, 2.0r, 3.0a
Rudy Gay	12.0p, 5.3r, 1.5a
Jakob Poeltl	6.0p, 7.3r, 1.8a	–
Drew Eubanks	4.0p, 5.0r, 0.0a	–
Trey Lyles	1.5p, 1.5r, 0.5a
Keita Bates-Diop	0.0p, 0.0r, 0.0a
Luka Samanic	0.0p, 0.0r, 0.0a
LaMarcus Aldridge	12.0p, 4.3r, 2.0a

Team-by-Team Breakdown

The post Heat Check 2020-21: San Antonio Spurs appeared first on SLAM.

We broke down the Spurs’ depth chart for the 2020-21 season below. We’ve also previously published a summary of the Spurs’ offseason.

Biggest Questions

• Are LaMarcus Aldridge and DeMar DeRozan going to be flipped before the trade deadline? Both are on the wrong side of 30 and in the final year of their respective contracts.
• Is Devin Vassell one of the best value picks of the 2020 NBA Draft? With his size and versatility, he could be a mismatch problem down the road in San Antonio.

All NBA Team Offseason Summaries

The post San Antonio Spurs: Projected 2020-21 Depth Chart appeared first on SLAM.

San Antonio’s current veteran stars — LaMarcus Aldridge and DeMar DeRozan — don’t seem like they really want to be there. However, while they might be looking forward to becoming free agents in 2021 (DeRozan can actually decline his player option for the 2020-21 season if he would like), it means that the Spurs will either take another step back in the 2021-22 season or that they put more pressure on themselves to expedite their rebuild.

Frankly, with a lottery pick and the chance to cut a substantial chunk of their team payroll in a summer when there will be a sizable amount of marquee free agents, San Antonio’s future isn’t as bleak as it may seem. The Spurs have just been dominant for so long that the rebuild feels as if it’s taking much longer than it really is.

Related: Full San Antonio Spurs 2020 Salary Cap Preview

2020 NBA Draft Picks

Spurs Draft Needs

There’s a perfect player for the Spurs to select with their lottery pick in Saddiq Bey. However, finding out how to utilize their second-round selection will be a bit more tricky for San Antonio.

It’s no secret that the Spurs have been somewhat resistant to falling in line with the rest of the NBA when it comes to taking 3-point shots. Not that they weren’t efficient when they did take them, shooting .376 from deep last season (4th in the NBA). It’s just that they didn’t do so too often; their 28.5 3-point attempts per game ranked 28th in the NBA.

That said, while improving their potency from behind-the-arc will help them transform a traditional offense into a modern one, San Antonio’s primary issues last season were on the defensive end. With five rotation players that were at least 30-years-old last season, the Spurs needs to get younger and more athletic in their frontcourt.

2020 NBA Draft Prospect Watchlist

What The Mocks Are Saying

Projected Roster

The post San Antonio Spurs: 2020 NBA Draft Preview appeared first on SLAM.

In addition to a summary for each of the 30 teams (accessible in the link grid below), we’ve also tiered the top NBA free agents league-wide and published a general comparison of all teams’ cap space. Follow @SLAMnewswire on Twitter for constant offseason updates as we head into free agency.

Projected Roster Players

Projected Free Agents

2020 NBA Draft Picks

Projected Waived Players

Exceptions Available

• Non-Taxpayer Mid-Level Exception – $9,258,000
• Bi-Annual Exception – $3,623,000

Key Offseason Decisions

• Will DeMar DeRozan pick up his player option at $27M? At midseason there was reporting that DeRozan would decline his option and look to move on from San Antonio. A lot has changed since then. With so few teams poised to have cap space in an uncertain market, it’s now more likely DeRozan opts in for 2021.
• Can San Antonio reach an agreement with Jakob Poeltl on a new contract before having to match an offer sheet? There are few impact centers in this free agent class, and even fewer are as young as Poeltl. Any of the cap space teams could use him. That could force the Spurs to have to match richer contract than they would have offered outright.
• Will the Spurs sign Derrick White to a contract extension? San Antonio prefers to lock their players up when they can. They signed Dejounte Murray to a four-year, $64M deal that starts this upcoming season. White and Murry overlap position, but have shown they can also play together. Look for San Antonio to try to get him to sign a similarly team-friendly extension.

Projected Team Salary

$159,597,732

The Spurs are the Spurs. They probably won’t do anything flashy, but whatever they do will work. Injuries caused them to fall off this past season, but they’ll be right back in the mix in 2021. Look for them to try to lock up Derrick White to a team-friendly extension like the one Dejounte Murray signed. Then San Antonio will hit the free agent bonanza in 2021 with only Murray and White making double-figure salaries. (@KeithSmithNBA)

Cap Space Forecast

-$50,457,732 (24^th out of 30). $13,295,284 under the Luxury Tax.

Team Salary Cap Outlooks

The post San Antonio Spurs: Salary Cap Space 2020 appeared first on SLAM.

We’ve listed the entire roster with comparisons to last year’s launch rating below. We’ve also identified some general NBA 2K21 ratings trends for the league as a whole.

Spurs NBA 2K21 Ratings

View the NBA 2K21 player ratings for other teams below.

The post San Antonio Spurs: NBA 2K21 Ratings appeared first on SLAM.

We all know that Trey Lyles can put numbers on the board when given the opportunity – he did so sporadically in Denver and Utah – so the 14.4 and 6.2 he posted in March (up from 5.7 and 5.7 previously) should come as no surprise. Unfortunately he won’t be available in the bubble due to an emergency appendectomy.

Derrick White, who can seemingly dial his own production up and down depending on what head coach Gregg Popovich needs at the moment, will be available and eager to build off his own momentum. White averaged 13.6 points and 4.0 assists in March and has previously taken on larger roles when injuries necessitated it.

The rest of the team’s sneaky good backcourt youth movement is even more impressive. Dejounte Murray’s stat line crept from 10.4 points 5.7 rebounds and 4.0 assists before March to 13.8, 6.3 and 4.8 before the shutdown. That all-around production could continue to grow in the bubble as Murray takes the reins of the franchise.

Lonnie Walker IV and Keldon Johnson, too, showed signs of potential in March and could be the next opportunistic breakout performers on a roster full of them, especially if the postseason falls out of reach and this team has little to do in the bubble but focus on player development.

Heat Check San Antonio Spurs

Trey Lyles
Keldon Johnson
Dejounte Murray
Derrick White
LaMarcus Aldridge
Lonnie Walker IV
Drew Eubanks
Rudy Gay
Quinndary Weatherspoon
Patty Mills
DeMar DeRozan
Marco Belinelli
Bryn Forbes

Team-by-Team Breakdown

The post Heat Check (Hiatus): San Antonio Spurs appeared first on SLAM.

“I remember my mom always used to tell me, Son, learn how to cook. I’m not going to be there [to do it] for you for the rest of your life,” says Celtics big man Enes Kanter.

Life for an NBA player can obviously be hectic. The travel is strenuous and exhausting. Meals are often had on-the-go, in hotel rooms, on planes or at arenas. Time is tight and convenience is everything. Learning how to cook just isn’t at the top of the priorities list.

But then, in mid-March, everything changed. As the coronavirus spread rapidly around the world and players began testing positive, the NBA shut down.

Time stood still. Four months passed slowly.

Now, with the League restarting in Orlando, fans and media alike have been refreshing their brains on where we left things off in the 2019-20 season and making their predictions for the future.

But before we get to that and attention turns back to whatever happens inside the Disney World bubble, there’s another question worth asking: What have players been up to? For many, this is the longest they’ve gone without competitive basketball since early childhood. How did they fill that void?

Well, Kanter finally got the chance to make his mom proud. His first cracks at cooking admittedly ended with him hunched over a bowl of cereal. But he persisted, determined to master the art while he was stuck at home.

“I started making steaks, chicken wings, cookies, all that stuff—I was really trying to perfect my cuisines,” he tells SLAM. “I improved so much. Now if you put me in a kitchen and give me a recipe, I can cook it easy.”

Cooking was a pursuit that many, in and out of the NBA, turned to while in isolation. Same with reading and binge-watching TV shows. Kanter has been enjoying an inspirational book recommended by Celtics head coach Brad Stevens, Leaders Eat Last. Jaylen Brown, another member of the Cs, studied French in his free time. Teammate Jayson Tatum took up golf, training with respected instructors and providing his followers with updates via Snapchat.

Music was another outlet for players. Reigning MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo and Patty Mills practiced the guitar, while Jamal Murray picked up piano (Kanter tried to as well, only to find that his fingers were too big and he kept hitting the wrong keys). Rappers like Damian Lillard, Lou Williams and Lonzo Ball were in the studio working on projects.

Denver guard Troy Daniels got really into photography. He bought a Canon 6D Mark II camera a couple of years ago, but until March, it had mainly just been collecting dust on a shelf somewhere in his house.

“I picked the camera back up and was literally on YouTube and online every day trying to figure out the settings, shooting in manual and stuff like that,” he says. “It got kind of nerve-wracking because there was so much stuff to learn. It’s not just picking up a camera and pressing a button, and I think a lot of people don’t understand that.”

Daniels eventually upgraded to a Sony A7RIV with all of the top lenses and would take landscape photos or capture content for his girlfriend’s social media page. He grew to love the craft, improving dramatically over the four months.

Making videos was also a popular quarantine activity. Numerous players, from Serge Ibaka to Tacko Fall to Wendell Carter Jr to Matisse Thybulle, experimented with TikTok. Thybulle developed such a talent for it that he’s been vlogging his daily experiences in Orlando. LeBron posted a video of the entire James gang doing a coordinated TikTok dance. Nuggets forward Paul Millsap performed magic tricks on his account and Trae Young dropped some creative clips that went viral.

“I don’t know what it was that made me really want to get on TikTok,” Trae told SLAM in late-May. “My little brother was on it and he was at the house messing around, doing all these different dances. I just asked my little brother how to make one and we made a couple and I did a few on my own at my house. It’s been something to do. It’s definitely a good platform right now that we can all just have some fun on.”

The platform that took center stage amid the hiatus, however, was Twitch. Gaming was already a popular hobby around the NBA and the stay-at-home orders only provided more of an opportunity for guys to dive in. There was a 2K tournament aired on ESPN and SLAM hosted routine Call of Duty competitions.

“In terms of the guys who consistently make content in the gaming world, I’d say the most invested are Meyers Leonard, Josh Hart, JaVale McGee, De’Aaron Fox, Ben Simmons and Donovan Mitchell,” says pro gamer and director of eSports at SLAM, Duane Jackson. “Those guys have been putting in the work and really care about getting better.”

“I originally suffered an ankle injury and then quarantine started, so I’ve probably played Call of Duty 4-6 hours per day depending on rehab, spending time with my wife and working on other off-court endeavors,” Leonard says.

“I’m very competitive on the court, so when I’m not getting that fix from basketball, I get it from COD,” adds Hart.

The hours logged aren’t purely for entertainment—players recognize the value of streaming in terms of enhancing their brands, as well as how much the eSports industry is growing overall.

“I don’t really try to do everything—in terms of who I am as a brand—but the one thing that has always come back to me that I’ve enjoyed and wanted to find out more about is gaming,” said Ben Simmons during an interview for the first ever digital SLAM cover prior to the COVID-19 outbreak.

“You got to think about it going back to last summer—Josh Hart was doing this on a daily basis and getting extreme backlash for it,” Jackson says. “People were saying he doesn’t care and he should stick to basketball; but at the end of the day, he was just expressing himself. Now it’s cool to express yourself and it’s huge for a player’s brand. You get to know the players on a personal level when they stream. It just shows that you can grow a brand in different ways beyond basketball, and it’s a good start to a life after basketball as an entrepreneur. Some people start investing in fast food chains and stores. These guys are investing in gaming.”

In general, athletes used the break to focus on their off-court business interests and how to continue cultivating their brands. Rookie Ja Morant debuted a new “JA 12” personal logo when he arrived in Orlando. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander also introduced his own logo and finalized a multi-year endorsement deal with Converse Hoops.

“I just think where I’m at right now in my career—wanting to get out there a little bit more and express myself a little bit more on and off the court—and the things they do with their brand and the vision they have, it was perfect timing,” Shai says about the partnership.

“I think personal branding is everything,” says Knicks forward Bobby Portis, who spent the break building up his UNDERDOG brand. “It’s like being an entrepreneur. You have to go out there and grind and get it on your own.”

Of course, the quarantine was also just a great opportunity for players to relax and spend quality time with friends and family. March through June is usually a grueling period for them, as teams battle for seeding and then the playoffs begin. That means a lot of road trips and FaceTimes and quick catch-ups. It was important, especially during such a difficult phase, to be around loved ones.

Many had to assume teaching duties for their kids after schools were closed. Others gravitated toward board games or other ways to channel their competitiveness among relatives. Clippers guard Patrick Beverley brought his trademark trash-talking to Monopoly. Portis, who returned to his hometown in Arkansas, became infatuated with dominoes. He used to watch Jimmy Butler and Dwyane Wade play on the Bulls team plane back in 2015 but never thought he’d get into it. Then the pandemic happened.

“Now I find myself having a slight addiction to it,” he tells SLAM. “I actually play it every day around 8 or 9 pm. I’ll bring them out and whoever’s nearest to me will just come play me. I knew how to play [before quarantine] but I actually started learning the ways to lock people out and this and that. Now I’m real serious with it.”

There was a time for leisure, but there was also a time for action. Following the tragic murder of George Floyd, several NBA players became leaders in the Black Lives Matter movement and dedicated themselves to addressing racial issues in America. Lillard attended a powerful demonstration in Portland; Jaylen Brown and Malcolm Brogdon joined a peaceful protest in Atlanta; the Wizards marched alongside the Mystics in Washington; SoCal natives Russell Westbrook and DeMar DeRozan spoke out against police brutality at a rally in Compton. The list goes on and on.

“That four-month period was really important for myself because of my education, not just about the issues going on in my [home] country of Turkey, but issues going on all over the world, including America,” says Kanter, who drove from Chicago to Boston to protest alongside Marcus Smart. “I think the number one thing people need to do is just listen and educate themselves before saying anything about any kinds of issues. For me, it was very important to just sit back and see what some of the leaders are doing, like LeBron James or Jaylen Brown or Malcolm Brogdon.”

“For all of us, George Floyd’s killing was the last straw,” says Thabo Sefolosha, himself a victim of police violence outside a New York City nightclub in 2015. “It struck something deep inside the humanity of all who saw the video. Enough is enough.”

In early July, 22 teams made their way to Florida for the restart of the season. The NBA was officially back, but things would not be returning to normal.

Social activism has continued inside the bubble, as players have printed powerful messages on their jerseys (“Say Her Name,” “Equality,” “Justice,” “Black Lives Matter,” and more) and are using the heightened media attention to educate fans about the problems that plague our country and demand justice. On opening night, all members of the Jazz, Pelicans, Lakers and Clippers took a knee for the national anthem.

And all of those hobbies aren’t vanishing either. Tatum has already hit the links on the Disney campus. Dame D.O.L.L.A. and Lou Will put together mini recording studios in their hotel rooms, and Meyers Leonard and Josh Hart have constructed elaborate gaming set-ups in theirs. Daniels brought his camera down and hopes to be able to shoot games when the Nuggets aren’t playing.

As for Kanter, the cooking will have to wait until the season ends, but he has every intention of staying with it.

“I feel like once you start cooking, you appreciate food more,” he says. “I appreciate it more because I know the hard work behind it. I think once the bubble’s over, I’m going to keep trying to get better.”

—

GRAB YOUR COPY OF SLAM 228

Alex Squadron is an Associate Editor at SLAM. Follow him on Twitter @asquad510.

Photos via Enes Kanter, Troy Daniels and Getty Images.

The post A Look Back at What NBA Players Did During the Shutdown appeared first on SLAM.

Each member of the SLAM Fam was assigned a team to pick for. Below are the results + explanations.

Special Offer: Click Here To Get 15% Off NBA Store With Code NBASLAM15

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1. GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS: Anthony Edwards (6-5 Guard, Georgia)

CLASS: Freshman (18 years old)

2019-20 STATS: 19.1 points, 5.2 rebounds, 2.8 assists, 40% shooting from the field

First things first: The Golden State Warriors are not about to draft a third Splash Brother. Anthony Edwards may not be a great three-point shooter, but that’s arguably the only thing he doesn’t already do at an elite level. As he showed pretty much every night during an SEC Freshman of the Year campaign at Georgia—and as comparisons to Donovan Mitchell, Victor Oladipo, and even Dwyane Wade make clear—the 6-5, 225-pound combo guard has all the tools necessary to be a difference maker in the NBA. With Steph and Klay both in their 30s and coming off major injuries, the Dubs need to be thinking about the backcourt of the future. Edwards could be their next All-Star SG. — Ryan Jones

2. CLEVELAND CAVALIERS: LaMelo Ball (6-8 Guard, Illawarra Hawks of the NBL)

AGE: 19 years old

2019-20 STATS: 17.0 points, 7.6 rebounds, 6.8 assists, 1.6 steals, shooting 38% from the field

I’m gonna ignore that this pick adds a third point guard to a young team and just roll with the kid that I think is an incredible talent that any team would be lucky to have. Last we saw of LaMelo, he was a 6-7 point guard who can shoot from deep, put the ball on the floor and make the smart pass. Now I hear he’s sprouted to 6-8, grown into his lanky frame and become a more confident playmaker. That’s tough to pass on, regardless when the pick is being made. I realize this would create a logjam at the PG spot—LaMelo, Collin Sexton and Darius Garland seem unlikely to successfully share the ball—but it gives Cleveland a hell of a group of young players to develop and/or trade for other guys as the next season nears (or in the distant future). — Adam Figman

3. MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES: James Wiseman (7-1 Center, Memphis)

CLASS: Freshman (18 years old)

2019-20 STATS (three games): 19.7 points, 10.7 rebounds, 3.0 blocks, shooting 77% from the field

Karl-Anthony Towns’ capacity to match imposing physical size with guard-like quickness has proven to be the quality that separates him from many of the League’s bigs. James Wiseman has a skill-set, frame and athletic ability that almost mirrors that of Towns. Wiseman, who left Memphis after just three games, has consistent 20-point, 10-rebound potential written all over him. Pairing a forceful yet talented big man duo with D’Angelo Russell could be the right way to finally bring the Wolves back to the hunt. — Max Resetar

4. ATLANTA HAWKS: Obi Toppin (6-9 Forward, Dayton)

CLASS: Sophomore (22 years old)

2019-20 STATS: 20.0 points, 7.5 rebounds, shooting 63% from the field and 39% from three

The 6-9 redshirt sophomore became a SportsCenter regular thanks to his high-flying finishes, but overall was a super-efficient scorer despite a high usage. Prior to the NCAA suspending all remaining games, the Brooklyn native had positioned Dayton as a potential No. 1 seed in the NCAA tournament. The Flyers held a 29-2 record—easily the best season in school history.  He was already named National POY by USA Today, CBS Sports, NBC Sports and The Athletic, and is widely considered the front-runner for the prestigious Naismith Men’s College Player of the Year award. Additionally, Toppin was the only unanimous selection for the AP All-America teams. While the Hawks already have John Collins and Clint Capella in the paint, Toppin’s resume is worthy of serious consideration. — Franklyn Calle

5. DETROIT PISTONS: Deni Avdija (6-9 Forward, Maccabi Tel Aviv)

AGE: 19 years old

2019-20 STATS: 7.7 points, 4.1 rebounds, shooting 51% from the field (19.8 mpg)

Four of the highest ceiling prospects have already come off the board, but the Detroit Pistons can still pocket a valuable building block with this No. 5 pick as they turn to the future. Despite the fact that they already have ambiguously tantalizing combo forward Sekou Doumbouya and breakout stretch Christian Wood, the Pistons should take a long look at 19-year-old utility forward Deni Avdija. Avdija has impressed as a transition quarterback in the Israeli Premier League and looks comfortable enough handling the ball and pulling up from beyond the arc to project as an intriguing offensive option at the next level. Defensively, his length and discipline should help him at least make an impact, but if he’s going to see time at the three, or even at the four, in today’s small ball era, he’ll need to show that he can match NBA speed and athleticism.  — Austin Kent

6. NEW YORK KNICKS: Cole Anthony (6-3 Guard, North Carolina)

CLASS: Freshman (19 years old)

2019-20 STATS: 18.5 points, 5.7 rebounds, 4.0 assists, shooting 38% from the field and 35% from three

This just makes sense for so many reasons. 1) The Knicks continue to search for a consistent playmaker at the point guard position. Cole uses his explosive athleticism to get to the paint and put constant pressure on the defense. Which brings us to 2) The Knicks offense currently ranks 29th in the NBA and they desperately covet scoring. Cole averaged just under 20 points per game for the Tar Heels and, while a solid facilitator, is more aggressive than passive. Right now, the Garden needs that. And, of course, there’s 3) Cole grew up in New York City and his father, Greg Anthony, was a PG for the Knicks from 1991-95, when the team was making deep playoff runs. As long as Cole takes care of the ball and RJ Barrett improves his perimeter shooting, the two could form the backcourt that turns things around for a franchise that hasn’t finished over .500 since 2012-13. — Alex Squadron

7. CHICAGO BULLS: Tyrese Haliburton (6-5 Guard, Iowa State)

CLASS: Sophomore (20 years old)

2019-20 STATS: 15.2 points, 5.9 rebounds, 6.5 assists, 2.5 steals, shooting 50% from the field and 42% from three

The underachieving Bulls showed that they need help in several areas—shooting and defense in particular. Iowa State sophomore point guard Tyrese Haliburton excels in those domains, and then some. Haliburton, who just turned 20, averaged 15.2 points (on 50/42/82 shooting splits), 6.5 dimes, 5.9 boards and 2.5 steals this season. A pass-first playmaker, he would fit perfectly alongside scorers Coby White and Zach LaVine. Standing 6-5 with a crazy wingspan, Haliburton could easily guard positions 1-3, giving Chicago more switch-ability on the perimeter. And not to be overlooked, Haliburton brings great character to a team—lauded by Iowa State coach Steve Prohm for his “winning demeanor.” — Ryne Nelson

8. CHARLOTTE HORNETS: RJ Hampton (6-5 Guard, New Zealand Breakers of the NBL)

AGE: 19 years old

2019-20 STATS: 8.8 points, 3.8 rebounds, 2.4 assists, shooting 40% from the field

RJ Hampton, a 6-5, 185-pound point guard would be a nice, perhaps long-term fit for the Charlotte Hornets. The 19-year-old, who skipped college and took his talents to Australia, would have an uphill battle for minutes in a backcourt featuring Devonte’ Graham and Terry Rozier. Hampton is an elite ball-handler—able to break down defenses with dribble penetration—and has plenty of athletic ability. Unlike most of his peers in the 2020 NBA Draft, RJ had a taste of the fierce competition that awaits him in the League. His New Zealand Breakers faced both the OKC Thunder and Memphis Grizzlies in a pair of exhibition games last October, and though his jumper struggled, Hampton knows he’s well on his way: “I’m having a lot of fun.” — Marcel Mutoni

9. WASHINGTON WIZARDS: Onyeka Okongwu (6-9 Forward, USC)

CLASS: Freshman (19 years old)

2019-20 STATS: 16.2 points, 8.6 rebounds, 2.7 blocks, 1.2 steals, shooting 62% from the field

If you’d heard of Onyeka Okongwu before 2018, it was probably as a footnote in a story about his world-famous high school teammates. Okongwu played at Chino Hills with the Ball brothers, where he spent his early years in anonymity before LaMelo left California for Lithuania. Thrust into a leading role, Big O led Chino to a state title, and added a 35-point, 14-rebound, five-block performance against Zion Williamson at the 2018 Hoophall Classic along the way. In one season at USC, the crazy athletic 6-9 big showed enough potential to warrant top-5 pick consideration. Okongwu’s NBA comparisons range everywhere from Montrezl Harrell to Bam Adebayo—at minimum, he’s a versatile defender who can step in right away and protect the rim for a Washington team sorely lacking in that area. Projecting him alongside a healthy Wall, Beal, Hachimura and (maybe) Bertans in 2020-21 would certainly have Wizards fans eyeing a return to the postseason. — Abe Schwadron

10. PHOENIX SUNS: Nico Mannion (6-3 Guard, Arizona)

CLASS: Freshman (19 years old)

2019-20 STATS: 14.0 points, 5.3 assists, 1.2 steals, shooting 39% from the field

Nico Mannion is one of the smoothest and most skilled point guards in this year’s draft. His father, Pace Mannion, played in the NBA and finished his career in Italy, where Nico was born. Once they moved back to the states, Nico played in Phoenix at Pinnacle High School and then for the Arizona Wildcats. At 6-3, he has great pace and court vision. He’s smooth off the bounce and can create for himself and his teammates. He’s a shot maker and has all the tools to be an elite guard at the pro level. Phoenix is a good fit for Mannion, as he can learn alongside Rubio in the city where he’s been playing for years. — Bryan LaRussa

11. SAN ANTONIO SPURS: Jaden McDaniels (6-9 Forward, Washington)

CLASS: Freshman (19 years old)

2019-20 STATS: 13.0 points, 5.8 rebounds, 1.4 blocks, shooting 41% from the field and 34% from three

I’m well aware of what happened in his lone season at Washington and what scouts and analysts have said regarding a player that they feel teams should take caution with. I know about the benchings at UW, critiques of his decision-making on the court and the other asterisks that might have been attached to his name. But the Spurs’ culture—and everything they stand for—couldn’t be a better place for McDaniels to start his NBA career. There are valuable OGs on that roster—Patty Mills, DeMar DeRozan, Rudy Gay and LaMarcus Aldridge—and another Washington guy in Dejounte Murray that could take the incoming rook under their wings. And did I mention being in the same vicinity and learning from a HOFer in Tim Duncan? The Spurs have a “we-over-me” ethos and a track record that speaks for itself. San Antonio is a perfect destination for someone with Jaden’s stature and skill set. — Drew Ruiz

12. SACRAMENTO KINGS: Isaac Okoro (6-6 Forward, Auburn)

CLASS: Freshman (19 years old)

2019-20 STATS: 12.9 points, 4.4 rebounds, 2.0 assists, shooting 51% from the field

A year ago, you might not have known the name Isaac Okoro. Coming out of McEachern High School in Atlanta, GA, Okoro was a four-star recruit who didn’t have the hype he likely warranted. That changed quickly, though. The 6-6 freshman was surrounded by seniors in the starting lineup at Auburn and still separated himself. With his versatility and explosiveness, Okoro climbed the ranks and shouldn’t fall past this spot in the 2020 Draft. Isaac is a lockdown defender who can score in a variety of ways but doesn’t demand the ball offensively. He’ll have no problem letting guards De’Aaron Fox, Buddy Hield and Bogdan Bogdanovich (should they all return) run the show, sliding in seamlessly right away and hopefully helping the Kings level up after a disappointing 2019-20 season. — Alex Squadron

13. NEW ORLEANS PELICANS: Precious Achiuwa (6-9 Forward, Memphis)

CLASS: Freshman (20 years old)

2019-20 STATS: 15.8 points, 10.8 rebounds, 1.9 blocks, shooting 49% from the field

First off, this pick is for Queens, NY, being that I can’t remember the last time the borough had an NBA lottery pick. Coming off an eventful freshman season, Precious Achiuwa averaged 15.8 points and 10.8 rebounds per game before the sports world was put on freeze. Achiuwa should be a major addition to the young highlight reel Pelicans. The 6-9, 225-pound forward has all the tools to make an impact right away. With Lonzo Ball coming off his best NBA season and Zion’s short, but dominant, run, the Pelicans should look to add another forward with their star Brandon Ingram possibly testing the FA market this summer. Regardless, Precious will bring more athleticism and explosiveness to a budding roster. — Nick Torres

14. PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS: Devin Vassell (6-6 Guard, Florida State)

CLASS: Sophomore (19 years old)

2019-20 STATS: 12.7 points, 5.1 rebounds, 1.4 steals, shooting 49% from the field and 41% from three

With the Blazers set to enter the 2020-21 season at nearly full strength after an injury-filled 2019-20 campaign, the team needs reinforcements to shore up its roster and make a run at the Western Conference’s best. A rookie that could step in and provide shooting and defense on the wing would help strengthen the team’s supporting cast around the Lillard-McCollum-Nurkic core. Enter Devin Vassell. The 6-6 guard from Florida State evolved into the team’s leading scorer (12.7 PPG) after averaging under five points in his freshman season. He showed off his range with the Seminoles, shooting at or above 41.5% from deep in each of his two seasons. Vassell also brings value on the defensive end, with averages of 1 block and 1.4 steals per game. The forward is the essential 3-and-D complement that Portland has lacked in recent years. He projects as an instant contributor with the potential to take over the wing from the Blazers’ older forwards. — Isaiah De Los Santos

15. ORLANDO MAGIC: Theo Maledon (6-4 Guard, ASVEL of the EuroLeague)

AGE: 18 years old

2019-20 STATS: 7.4 points, 3.1 assists, shooting 46% from the field and 37% from three

There are a lot of good guards on the the board that are excellent talents, but from the standpoint of trying to find a solid backcourt mate for Markelle Fultz, the Magic should consider Theo Maledon. Highlights are obviously skewed, but his decision making as a playmaker seems to be there, both in transition and half-court play. He plays with a patience that is rare to see in an 18-year-old in the EuroLeague. This past season for ASVEL Lyon-Villeurbanne, he shot 37% from beyond the arc. If he wants to maintain a spot in the NBA, he’ll need to maintain that shooting percentage as his three point attempts go up. — Arvind Pitchai

16. MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES (VIA BROOKLYN): Tyrese Maxey (6-3 Guard, Kentucky)

CLASS: Freshman (19 years old)

2019-20 STATS: 14.0 points, 4.3 rebounds, 3.2 assists, shooting 43% from the field

Earlier in this mock, the Wolves snagged James Wiseman with the No. 3 pick, pairing him with star Karl-Anthony Towns to give them a massively talented frontcourt for the foreseeable future. With the recently acquired D’Angelo Russell reliably running point, the Wolves still need a wing who can get buckets. Maxey is super shifty and already sports an impressive floater package. He has a strong handle and can effectively slash into the teeth of the defense. He’s also a fantastic on-ball defender. And while his three-point percentages are subpar, his feathery floater touch and excellent free throw percentage (83% on the season) suggest he will be just fine. His 6-3 frame may be on the small side for a SG, but his tremendous strength compensates for the slight height disadvantage. Maxey is young and has tons of room to grow. The Wolves should take a shot on a kid with huge upside who could transform into a perennial 20-point per game scorer. — Isaiah Freedman

17. BOSTON CELTICS (VIA MEMPHIS): Josh Green (6-6 Guard, Arizona)

CLASS: Freshman (19 years old)

2019-20 STATS: 12.0 points, 4.6 rebounds, 2.6 assists, 1.5 steals, shooting 42% from the field and 36% from three

The Celtics are locked in for the future. They have an All-NBA point guard in Kemba Walker, budding superstars in Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, a lockdown perimeter defender in Marcus Smart, and the perfect complementary pieces to round out the roster. This gives them the flexibility to take the best, most talented player available—Arizona freshman Josh Green. One of the top defenders in the draft, the shooting guard can cover 1-4 with his 6-6, 210-pound frame and 6-10 wingspan. Offensively, he is an elite athlete who can handle the ball and hit open shots, as he knocked down 39.5% of his three-point attempts in the second half of the season. He fits with what the Celtics continue to stockpile—competitive, versatile wings who can cover and play multiple positions. Green is just 19 years old, but can contribute right away as a role player for a Celtics team that has current championship aspirations. — Ben Simon

18. DALLAS MAVERICKS: Isaiah Stewart (6-9 Forward, Washington)

CLASS: Freshman (18 years old)

2019-20 STATS: 17.0 points, 8.8 rebounds, 2.1 blocks, shooting 57% from the field

Sitting right on the verge of serious contention, the Mavericks will be looking for a player who provides reliable depth and immediate contribution. Washington big man Isaiah Stewart fits that mold. As a freshman, Stewart was a model of consistency for the Huskies. A 250-pound forward with a 7-4 wingspan, Stewart combines impressive athleticism and mobility with a polished finishing ability, making him a perfect fit in a pick-and-roll with Luka Doncic. He shot 77% from the FT line and showed a solid midrange touch. Stewart’s biggest strength, however, is that few, if any players in the draft play with a higher motor. While his back-to-the-basket offensive game may not translate to the next level, his energy and physicality will certainly make him effective as a rim protector and a rebounder on both ends. With Dwight Powell recovering from a ruptured achilles, Stewart can provide immediate depth at the 4 or 5 for a Mavericks team looking to win now. — Sam Squadron

19. MILWAUKEE BUCKS (VIA INDIANA): Vernon Carey Jr. (6-10 Center, Duke)

CLASS: Freshman (19 years old)

2019-20 STATS: 17.8 points, 8.8 rebounds, 1.6 blocks, shooting 58% from the field

There’s a reason why Vernon Carey Jr. was voted ACC Freshman of the Year in his lone season at Duke. The 6-10 lefty has an efficient offensive game and can score in a multitude of ways. Vernon has a quick first step and is extremely tough to guard within five feet of the basket. He’ll be joining a team already poised to make a deep playoff run, so there will be little to no pressure for the rook to carry a large load. However, if there’s anything we learned from Vernon Carey Jr in college, it’s that he shows up when it matters most. — Theus McBee

20. BROOKLYN NETS (VIA PHILADELPHIA): Saddiq Bey (6-8 Forward, Villanova)

CLASS: Sophomore (21 years old)

2019-20 STATS: 16.1 points, 4.7 rebounds, shooting 48% from the field and 45% from three

Bey is an athletic forward standing at 6-8, 216 pounds that has levels to his game, but the biggest draw is that he’s a knockdown shooter. He shot 45% from beyond the arc in his sophomore year at Villanova, up from 37% in his first year. The Julius Erving award winner could be a perfect fit for the Nets, who are currently the fifth worst three-point shooting squad in the League based on percentage. Brooklyn will be getting back major offensive pieces next year in Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving, but with the contract of Joe Harris in question, Bey could be a strong addition should the Nets need to fill that role. — Camille Buxeda

21. DENVER NUGGETS (VIA HOUSTON): Jalen Smith (6-10 Forward, Maryland)

CLASS: Sophomore (20 years old)

2019-20 STATS: 15.5 points, 10.5 rebounds, 2.4 blocks, shooting 54% from the field and 37% from three

Jalen Smith is a rim-running, athletic big with great hands. He’s also a willing and gifted post player who can step out and shoot the three. The 6-10 power forward has a high motor—Smith can bring chasedown blocks, offensive rebounds, and defensive toughness to the Pepsi Center. For good measure, he’s got the lateral speed and shiftiness necessary to defend at the next level. The Baltimore native is fresh off a stellar sophomore season, in which he led Maryland to a 24-7 record and a Big Ten title. Stix was the best player on a Terps team on pace for a 3-seed and poised for a deep run in the NCAA Tournament, and Smith would pair well with Jamal Murray and Nikola Jokic in Mike Malone’s system. Paul Millsap, Mason Plumlee and Jerami Grant are all free agents this summer. Smith fits Denver’s position need, and he projects to be the kind of player most GMs are looking for in 2020: a stretch-four who defends. — Eli Schwadron

22. PHILADELPHIA 76ERS (VIA OKLAHOMA CITY): Aaron Nesmith (6-6 Forward, Vanderbilt)

CLASS: Sophomore (20 years old)

2019-20 STATS: 23.0 points, 4.9 rebounds, 1.4 steals, shooting 51% from the field and 52% from three

When JJ Redick fled from the City of Brotherly Love on the first day of free agency last summer, the Sixers’ long-range marksmanship took an immediate hit. Through 65 games, Philadelphia ranked 14th in three-point field goal accuracy (32.6%), down from eighth the season before. The solution? Enter Aaron Nesmith, the best pure shooter in this year’s draft. Vandy’s 6-6 sophomore slinger averaged 23 points and 4.9 rebounds over 14 games while shooting 52% from deep, before a season-ending stress fracture in his right foot. Nesmith was the fifth-leading scorer in the nation and was on pace to have one of the best three-point shooting seasons in college basketball history. Possessing a combination of size, strength, and deadeye shot-making ability, Nesmith’s game is tailor-made for the modern NBA and fills a much-needed void in Philly. — Peter Robert Casey

23. MIAMI HEAT: Killian Hayes (6-5 Guard, ratiopharm Ulm of Basketball Bundesliga)

AGE: 18 years old

2019-20 STATS: 12.8 points, 6.2 assists, 1.5 steals, shooting 46% from the field and 39% from three

Already an Eastern Conference playoff contender, Pat Riley will search for the final pieces of the puzzle starting in the 2020 Draft. As Goran Dragic enters unrestricted free agency, the Heat will likely target youth to take over the reigns. Although he’s only 18, Killian Hayes boasts the experience and toughness it takes to make an impact in the NBA immediately. Originally born in Lakeland, FL, before moving to France due to his father’s pro career, Hayes has used basketball to bridge the gap between both countries. After playing against older opponents his entire childhood in Europe, Hayes turned professional in France at the age of only 16. During his career with Cholet, Killian also represented the French National team. Now a 6-5 PG with a tight handle, sharp vision and the ability to finish at the rim, he holds all the intangibles NBA scouts seek. The Lakeland native took the opposite journey to the League, and the risk may be worth the reward. Once idolizing Dwyane Wade, Hayes now has the chance to honor Flash as he returns to his home state and aims to ignite South Beach once again. — Daren Scarberry

24. UTAH JAZZ: Aleksej Pokusevski (7-0 Forward, Olympiacos B of the Greek A2 Basket League)

AGE: 18 years old

2019-20 STATS: 10.8 points, 7.9 rebounds, 3.1 assists, 1.8 blocks, shooting 49% from the field and 32% from three

It’s time to meet your future favorite player, and he goes by the name of Poku. Joining the storied lineage of Serbians (Vlade, Peja, Nikola) in the NBA, Aleksej Pokusevski is the youngest prospect in this year’s draft, not turning 19 until the day after Christmas. And while his 7-0 frame has caused folks that have never heard of him or seen him play to make assumptions, don’t get it twisted—Poku is a point guard trapped in a center’s body. Just like KD (6-10), Giannis (6-11), Jokić (7-0), and Porzingis (7-3), he’s a vertically inclined man with playmaking ability and perimeter skills. Unfortunately, he’s barely seen any EuroLeague action for Olympiacos since joining the club at the age of 13, but he’s had the privilege of learning from legendary Greek teammates Vassilis Spanoulis and Georgios Printezis, along with former head coach David Blatt. While this season he was assigned to play with the development team, Olympiacos B, his time spent with the Serbian national squad has been fruitful and excited NBA scouts. Last July, he opened the FIBA U18 European Championship with 16 points, 13 rebounds, 7 blocks, 5 assists, and 3 steals in a win against Germany. If Poku somehow slips this far to Utah, a team who flew to Athens to see him play in November, they’re in for a treat. — Aron Phillips

25. OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER (VIA DENVER): Jahmi’us Ramsey (6-4 Guard, Texas Tech)

CLASS: Freshman (18 years old)

2019-20 STATS: 15.0 points, 4.0 rebounds, 1.3 steals, shooting 44% from the field and 43% from three

Jahmi’us Ramsey, the highest ranked recruit to ever attend Texas Tech, finished off the 2019-20 regular season as Big 12 Freshman of the Year. He’s an explosive combo guard with a great jump shot who can create space, elevate and finish with authority at the rim. Put simply, Ramsey gets buckets. Ramsey would slot right into an Oklahoma City Thunder backcourt that has thrived under the guidance of head coach Billy Donovan and veteran point god Chris Paul. Integrated into a system with a strong track record of player development, Ramsey could carve out a role as a long-term rotation piece in OKC. — Dave Schnur

26. BOSTON CELTICS: Zeke Nnaji (6-11 Forward, Arizona)

CLASS: Freshman (19 years old)

2019-20 STATS: 16.1 points, 8.6 rebounds, shooting 57% from the field

Two Celtics picks and two Arizona Wildcats. After choosing Josh Green at 17, the Celtics can afford to take a shot on a sleeper. That comes in the form of Zeke Nnaji. I say sleeper, but he was actually much more productive than Green in their one season of college. The Minnesota native averaged 16.1 points and 8.6 rebounds (including 3.1 offensive boards, giving him the highest total in the Pac 12), while shooting 57% from the field, second best in the conference. The Celtics’ roster is filled out, but they do have one glaring need: a big man who can run the floor and play above the rim. Nnaji can do just that… and then some. He’s an elite finisher who even showed an ability to knock down jump shots. The building blocks are there for him to be an efficient three-point shooter. Nnaji still has glaring struggles on the defensive end, but with Daniel Theis, Vincent Poirier, and Robert Williams under contract next season (Enes Kanter is under a player option), there’s time for him to develop. It’s a low risk, high reward pick that could hopefully fill one of the Celtics’ few holes. Oh, and if you’re short on a pregame National Anthem performer, Zeke Nnaji can do that too.  — Ben Simon

27. NEW YORK KNICKS (VIA CLIPPERS): Jordan Nwora (6-7 Forward, Louisville)

CLASS: Junior (21 years old)

2019-20 STATS: 18.0 points, 7.7 rebounds, shooting 44% from the field and 40% from three

During the past two seasons, Jordan Nwora established himself as the go-to guy for the Louisville Cardinals and deserves to be taken in the first round of the upcoming NBA draft. At 6-7, he’s extremely versatile and has a well-rounded offensive game. Nwora led the Cards in scoring for the second straight year, averaging 18 points on 44% shooting from the field and 40% from deep. He can spread the floor and create spacing for a Knicks team that ranked dead last in total threes in 2019-20. If the Knicks take Cole Anthony at the No. 6 spot to pair with RJ Barrett, they’re going to be searching for reliable prospects like Nwora—athletic forwards who can run in transition, knock down jumpers consistently and don’t clog the paint. — Alex Squadron

28. TORONTO RAPTORS: Yves Pons (6-6 Guard, Tennessee)

CLASS: Junior (21 years old)

2019-20 STATS: 10.8 points, 5.4 rebounds, 2.4 blocks, shooting 49% from the field and 35% from three

While the SEC’s DPOY doesn’t boast the numbers of other first round picks, he has elite athleticism that allows him to guard positions 1-4. Pons is another skilled defensive player, similar to OG Anunoby, who will help the Raptors in an Eastern Conference that is deep at the G/F position. At 6-6, Pons averaged 2.4 blocks per game last season. He will fit right in to Toronto’s talented bench squad. Although his defensive prowess is what will get him drafted, Pons shot 35% from the three-point line in his last season as a Volunteer. This makes him an intriguing possible deep threat, and given the Raptors’ track record of developing talent (Siakam, VanVleet, Powell), he will have a great opportunity to develop his offensive game further. — Greg Cohen

29. LOS ANGELES LAKERS: Tyrell Terry (6-1 Guard, Stanford)

CLASS: Freshman (19 years old)

2019-20 STATS: 14.6 points, 4.5 rebounds, 3.2 assists, 1.4 steals, shooting 44% from the field and 41% from three

LeBron loves a point guard that can shoot, and Terry does just that. He’s a score-first PG who also possesses impressive passing ability. Terry is a three-level scorer and a particularly elite three-point shooter. This past season, he shot 48% on catch and shoot threes and is also capable of knocking down jumpers off the dribble. He has a very good feel for the game, knowing when to pass and when to look for his own offense. Tyrell can operate out of the pick-and-roll and moves very well off the ball, similar to Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson. Overall, he’s a playmaker that will develop into a premier guard in the League. — Christian Quezada

30. BOSTON CELTICS (VIA MILWAUKEE): Tre Jones (6-3 Guard, Duke)

CLASS: Sophomore (20 years old)

2019-20 STATS: 16.2 points, 6.4 assists, 4.2 rebounds, 1.8 steals, shooting 42% from the field and 36% from three

The oldest position on the Celtics? Point guard. Although Kemba Walker is still earning All-Star appearances, he is less than a month away from being 30. Brad Wanamaker, despite just two years in the NBA, is already 30. Carsen Edwards provides some youth, but might be better served as an off-ball gunner. The Celtics are young and talented at pretty much every other position (center was solved with our last pick). Increased PG depth could provide a nice cushion. Tre Jones brings just that. But the 6-3, 185-pound guard is more than the prototypical backup point guard. Sure, he has a high floor. That happens when you receive ACC Player of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year honors. Not only can he contribute right away, but he has the chance to grow into a legitimate NBA starter. After shooting just 26% from three during his freshman season, he bumped his average up to 36% this year. He’s a mature, smart guard who can complement the Celtics’ stars by playing defense, facilitating, hitting open threes, and scoring when needed. With Jones and Marcus Smart, they could have one of the best defensive backcourts in the NBA. He’s already a great backup option right now, but as Walker climbs into his 30s, Jones has a chance to be the Celtics’ point guard of the future. — Ben Simon

The post SLAM’s 2020 NBA Mock Draft appeared first on SLAM.

Thybulle was born in the United States, but lived in Australia for seven years in his youth and holds dual-citizenship.

Team Australia features several NBA players including Patty Mills, Joe Ingles, Aron Baynes and Matthew Dellavedova. Former NBAers Andrew Bogut and Mitch Creek also play for the Boomers on the international level.

If Thybulle does wear the yellow and green this summer, he could be joining Sixers teammate Ben Simmons. Simmons has expressed an interest in playing for his home country, but that may be in jeopardy due to his current back injury.

In addition, Australia is coached by Brett Brown. Brown also coaches Simmons and Thybulle in Philadelphia.

Thybulle’s defensive ability would be a huge addition to the Boomers. In recent years, Australia has placed well in international tournaments. The Australians placed fourth at both the 2016 Olympic games in Brazil and the 2019 FIBA World Cup in China.

The post Matisse Thybulle Wants to Play For Australia at 2020 Olympics appeared first on SLAM.

Utah took control in the second half, led by 28 points from Bojan Bogdanovic; Rudy Gobert added 20 points and 9 rebounds. Collin Sexton put up 32 points in the loss.

Rockets 123 (39-21), Knicks 125 (19-42)

Houston had a chance to tie the game with the final possession, but New York locked up on defense to shut down the Rockets’ comeback attempt. Rookie RJ Barrett tied a career high with 27 points, including the bucket that put the Knicks ahead for good. James Harden scored 35 points for Houston.

Blazers 130 (27-25), Magic 107 (27-34)

Portland overwhelmed Orlando in the fourth quarter, outscoring the Magic 38-19 to take home the win. CJ McCollum did it all for the Blazers, leading them with 41 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. Magic center Nikola Vucevic posted a double-double of 30 points and 11 rebounds.

Grizzlies 127 (30-31), Hawks 88 (19-44)

Nine Memphis players hit double digits in the victory over Atlanta. Gorgui Dieng paced the Grizzlies with 17 points and 10 rebounds.

Bucks 89 (52-9), Heat 105 (39-22)

Miami’s defense held the reigning MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo to only 13 points as the Heat overwhelmed the Bucks. Jae Crowder and Jimmy Butler each chipped in 18 points to Miami’s winning effort.

Mavericks 107 (37-25), Bulls 109 (21-40)

Chicago outscored Dallas 33-17 in the third quarter, a turning point for the game. Six Bulls put up double-digit scoring, led by Coby White’s 19 points. Tim Hardaway Jr. finished with 26 points for Dallas.

Pacers 116 (37-24), Spurs 111 (25-34)

Indiana stormed back in the final minutes to leave San Antonio with the win. Malcolm Brogdon scored a team-high 26 points. Patty Mills contributed 24 points in 23 minutes off the bench.

The post Post Up: CJ McCollum Scores 41 Points as Blazers Snap Losing Streak appeared first on SLAM.

The 76ers picked up their 25th win at home, tied with the Bucks for most in the NBA. Ben Simmons was dominant, notching his second consecutive triple double with 26 points, 12 rebounds and 10 assists. Joel Embiid dropped 26 and Josh Richardson added 21 for Philly. The Clippers were led by Kawhi Leonard, who finished with 30 points and 9 assists in the loss.

Wizards 126 (19-33), Bulls 114 (19-36)

The Wizards were led by Bradley Beal, who finished with 30 points and 7 assists in the home win. Rui Hachimura added 20 points. Zach LaVine dropped a game-high 41 points to go along with 9 rebounds in the loss.

Pelicans 138 (23-32), Trail Blazers 117 (25-30)

It was the Zion Williamson show in New Orleans tonight. The rookie finished with 31 points on 10-17 shooting, the first 30 point game of his career. He also added 9 rebounds and 5 assists as the Pelicans cruised to the home win over the Blazers. JJ Reddick dropped 20 points off the bench, and Jrue Holiday and Lonzo Ball finished with 10 assists each. For Portland, CJ McCollum and Damian Lillard each scored 20 points.

Spurs 114 (23-32), Thunder 106 (32-22)

The Spurs outscored the Thunder 35-29 in the fourth quarter to pick up an impressive win on the road. LaMarcus Aldridge led San Antonio with 25 points and 14 rebounds. Dejounte Murray added 25 points and 9 rebounds, and Patty Mills dropped 20 off the bench in the win. For OKC, Chris Paul finished with team-high 31 points and 7 assists.

Rockets 116 (34-20), Celtics 105 (37-16)

The Rockets scored 38 points in the fourth quarter to pick up a big win, snapping a two-game losing streak. James Harden went off for 42 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assists, including scoring 19 straight Rockets points in a third quarter in which they outscored Boston 31-22. Russell Westbrook also shined, finishing with 36 points, 10 rebounds, and 5 assists in the win. Boston was lead by Gordon Hayward, who dropped a team-high 20 points in the loss.

The post Post Up: Zion Drops Career-High 31 Points in Win Over Blazers appeared first on SLAM.

In this post, just one of a series of 30, we’ll break down the reports that have started to trickle out about Spurs players that may or may not be on the move. While there’s no guarantee when it comes to a league as wild as the modern NBA, it doesn’t hurt to brush up on each squad’s roster as the deadline draws near.

Players Unlikely To Be Traded

• LaMarcus Aldridge
• Lonnie Walker
• Dejounte Murray
• Keldon Johnson
• Derrick White

It’s been five seasons since the Spurs made an in-season trade, so you could argue that the entire team belongs in this section. However, San Antonio hasn’t been this mediocre in quite some time; things could change. Perhaps they look to make additions in order to compete for the eighth seed in the conference, though I wouldn’t expect major moves if any at all.

Biggest Name Available On Market

• Jakob Poeltl

Again, a trade isn’t likely, though Jakob Poeltl will be a restricted free agent after the season. Depending on how the Spurs gauge the market for him, perhaps they look to trade him prior to the deadline next week.

As a side note, can you believe that the draft pick that the Raptors used to acquire Poeltl was the first-round selection that Toronto received in the Andrea Bargnani deal with the Knicks? Poeltl’s inclusion in the Kawhi Leonard trade greased the wheels for Toronto’s trade for the Finals MVP so I guess the Raptors can thank the Knicks for their banner.

Logical Trade Pieces

• DeMar DeRozan

DeMar DeRozan has the ability to hit the free agent market this summer, which should at least make the Spurs think about moving him and gaining an asset in return.

Trading the shooting guard could be tricky and as mentioned above, unlikely, given how the Spurs operate with regard to in-season deals, so we are going to use this space to plead DeRozan’s case as an All-Star. He’s averaging 23.0 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 5.2 assists, while sporting a true shooting percentage of .608 and a player efficiency of 22.0. He leads the team in win shares and the Spurs may be near the bottom of the west without him. He certainly should have gotten in over an inefficient guard who shall not be named.

Trades Are Possible

• Rudy Gay
• Patty Mills
• DeMarre Carroll
• Trey Lyles
• Marco Belinelli
• Luka Samanic
• Chimezie Metu

It’s hard to envision the Spurs trading Rudy Gay unless he politely asks for one. He spoke very highly of the franchise about how they treated him and his family when he re-signed with the team over the summer. Patty Mills has one season left on his deal after this one. With the team’s plethora of younger guards, it’s feasible that he could be dealt. DeMarre Carroll originally signed with the Spurs via the Mid-Level Exception, though the team then altered plans and acquired him via a three-way deal with the Wizards and Nets because Marcus Morris wanted to come to town. Morris backed out of the agreement and the team signed Trey Lyles, who has an 11.4 player efficiency rating this season. Marco Belinelli will be a free agent after the season. He is shooting an atypical 35.5% from behind the arc. Luka Samanic was selected with the No. 19 overall pick in the 2019 draft. The second-most famous Luka in the state of Texas has yet to play in an NBA game, instead picking up minutes with the G League’s Austin Spurs. Former second-round pick Chimezie Metu has appeared in 13 games for the Spurs. The power forward only had one appearance with over 10 minutes of action.

The post 2020 NBA Trade Deadline Primer: San Antonio Spurs appeared first on SLAM.

TJ Warren’s 36 points helped give Indiana the scoring edge over Charlotte. Terry Rozier scored 28 points in the loss.

Nets 89 (16-19), Magic 101 (17-20)

Markelle Fultz continues to thrive in Orlando. The third-year guard notched a career high of 25 points in the home win. Aaron Gordon added a double-double of 11 points and 14 rebounds.

Thunder 113 (20-16), 76ers 120 (24-14)

Philly took the lead heading into halftime and never gave it up. The 76ers connected on 50% of their 3-point attempts on the night; Josh Richardson led the team with 23 points.

Celtics 94 (25-9), Wizards 99 (12-24)

Washington never trailed in their home win, holding a lead as large as 11. Ish Smith paced the team with 27 points. Jaylen Brown put up 23 points and 12 rebounds for Boston.

Nuggets 123 (25-11), Hawks 115 (8-29)

Nikola Jokic’s career-high 47 points powered the Nuggets over the Hawks. Trae Young stood out with several highlight moves and registered 29 points, but fell short of the victory.

Jazz 128 (24-12), Pelicans 126 (12-25)

New Orleans had a chance to tie the game at the buzzer, but missed the layup as time expired. Bojan Bogdanovic impressed with 35 points; Brandon Ingram matched him with 35 points of his own.

Bulls 110 (13-24), Mavericks 118 (23-13)

It was another night as usual for Luka Doncic. The second-year player registered a triple-double of 38 points, 11 rebounds and 10 assists in the win.

Bucks 104 (32-6), Spurs 126 (15-20)

San Antonio bested Milwaukee after losing to them in their previous game. DeMar DeRozan (25 points) and Patty Mills (21 points) helped the Spurs get the home victory.

Warriors 98 (9-29), Kings 111 (14-23)

The Kings’ stud backcourt of Buddy Hield and De’Aaron Fox accounted for 21 points apiece as Sacramento overwhelmed the Warriors. Glenn Robinson III scored a team-high 16 points.

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The Celtics lead from start to finish and cruised to an easy win on the road. Boston was lead by Jayson Tatum, who finished with 24 points and 7 rebounds, and Gordon Hayward, who stuffed the stat sheet with 21 points, 10 rebounds, and 6 assists. Kemba Walker added 22 points and 7 assists.

Pacers 115 (22-12), 76ers 97 (23-13)

Indiana outscored Philly 38-16 in the second quarter and held on to the large lead for the remainder of the game, securing an easy win at home. Domantas Sabonis continued his impressive play, finishing with 23 points (10-16 FG), 10 rebounds, and 5 assists to lead the Pacers. T.J. Warren added 21 points on 9-11 shooting. Josh Richardson led the 76ers with 20 points, and Ben Simmons added 18 points and 10 rebounds in the loss.

Clippers 105 (24-11), Kings 87 (12-22)

The Clippers secured their 10th road win of the season in convincing fashion. LA was lead by Kawhi, who finished with 24 points and 7 assists, and PG, who dropped 21 points to go along with 11 rebounds and 9 assists. Richaun Holmes finished with 22 points and 10 rebounds, and Buddy Hield added 20 points, 6 rebounds, and 5 assists in the loss.

Raptors 117 (23-11), Cavs 97 (10-23)

The defending champions closed out 2019 with an easy win at home. Kyle Lowry finished with 24 points and 8 assists to lead the Raptors, and Serge Ibaka added 20 points and 10 rebounds. Collin Sexton dropped a team-high 22 points in the loss for Cleveland.

Rockets 130 (23-11), Nuggets 104 (23-10)

The Rockets dominated the fourth quarter, outscoring the Nuggets 38-15 to get the win at home. Russell Westbrook and James Harden showed out in their last game of the decade. The Beard finished with 35 points on 10-17 shooting, and The Brodie added 28 points and 8 assists. Clint Capela returned from injury and dropped 16 points to go along with 10 rebounds. Nikola Jokic led the Nuggets with 21 points in the loss.

Spurs 117 (14-8), Warriors 113 (9-26)

The Spurs outlasted the Dubs in an overtime thriller, outscoring Golden State 17-13 in the extra period. DeMar DeRozan led the Spurs with a team high 24 points on 11-18 shooting, and Patty Mills added 18 off the bench. For the Warriors, Alec Burks finished with 28 points, and Glenn Robinson III dropped 25 on 10-17 shooting in the loss.

Thunder 106 (18-15), Mavericks 101 (21-12)

The last game of 2019 was a great one, as the Thunder outscored the Mavs 29-23 in the fourth quarter to pick up the win at home. Danilo Gallinari and Dennis Schroder both dropped a team-high 20 points, and Chris Paul added 17 points (including 13 in the fourth), 8 rebounds, and 7 assists for the Thunder. For the Mavs, Luka Doncic finished with 35 points, 10 rebounds, and 7 assists in the loss.

The post Post Up: Harden and Westbrook Combine for 63 in Rockets Win appeared first on SLAM.

Donovan Mitchell put up a team-high 30 points in 36 minutes in the A. Rudy Gobert finished with a double-doule (20 points, 13 rebounds) as the Jazz won their fourth-straight game.

Bucks 111 (25-4), Lakers 104 (24-5)

Giannis Antetokounmpo hit a career-high 5 three-pointers en route to a 34-point performance to give Milwaukee its 25th win of the season. George Hill scored 21 points off the bench. The Bucks shot 41% from behind the arc.

Spurs 118 (11-16), Nets 105 (15-13)

Patty Mills (27 points) was one of two players to have 20 or more points. LaMarcus Aldridge finished with 20 and 10.

Rockets 122 (18-9), Clippers 117 (21-8)

Houston overcame a double-digit deficit as Russell Westbrook (40 points) and James Harden (28 points) combined for 68 points. Clint Capela had 16 points, and PJ Tucker and Danuel House finished with 10 apiece.

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San Antonio played their fourth-straight overtime game and came away with, incredibly, their third win during that stretch.

Patty Mills dropped a game-high 26 points off the bench. Dejounte Murray added 18 points (8-12 FG) with 7 boards and 5 dimes.

Nets 102 (13-12), Raptors 110 (17-8)

Toronto took a 7-point lead after scoring 38 points in the first quarter and would lead the rest of the way.

Pascal Siakam dropped a game-high 30 points with 10 boards, 5 dimes, 3 blocks and 3 steals.

Wizards 111 (7-17), Grizzlies 128 (9-17)

Memphis outscored the Wizards by 15 points in the first half and would go up by as much as 24 points during the fourth quarter.

Brandon Clarke dropped 25 points (11-14 FG) off the bench, and submitted his name into the Dunk of the Year running. Dillon Brooks added a team-high 27 points.

Clippers 106 (20-8), Bulls 109 (10-18)

One night after putting up just 73 points against the Hornets, the Bulls scored 109 points against the Clippers.

Zach LaVine dropped a game-high 31 points and the go-ahead bucket. Lauri Markkanen added 13 points and 17 boards.

Cavs 108 (6-20), Bucks 125 (24-3)

Milwaukee built an 18-point lead by halftime and would cruise the rest of the way to their 18th (!!) straight victory.

Giannis Antetokounmpo needed just 24 minutes to score a game-high 29 points.

Heat 122 (19-7), Mavs 118 (17-6)

Dallas battled back from a 24-point deficit after losing Luka Doncic to an ankle injury, but would fall short in overtime.

Bam Adebayo dropped 18 points with 11 boards and 10 dimes. Jimmy Butler added a team-high 27 points.

Pistons 115 (11-15), Rockets 107 (17-9)

After losing Blake Griffin in the first half to a left knee injury, Derrick Rose would lead the Pistons to a big road victory.

Rose dropped 20 points and 12 dimes off the bench. Luke Kennard added a team-high 22 points.

Thunder 102 (11-14), Nuggets 110 (16-8)

Outside of the first couple minutes, Denver would lead for the entire game.

Nikola Jokic dropped a game-high 28 points with 14 boards and 12 dimes.

The post Post Up: Zach LaVine Drops 31 Points to Lead Bulls Past Clippers appeared first on SLAM.

Well, that was certainly surprising. The surgically consistent Spurs have now dropped four losses in a row. Seeing the record “5-7” next to the Spurs looks like a typo, but it’s not. DeMar DeRozan led the squad with 21 points, with jitterbug Patty Mills adding 13 points and three steals off the bench.

The Magic, albeit missing rising star defender Jonathan Issac, got a very quality win behind Evan Fournier’s 26 points. They also got double-doubles from both Nikola Vucevic and Al Farouq-Aminu.

Hornets 109 (5-7), Pistons 106 (4-9)

Hello Malik Monk! The former Kentucky Wildcats star has had a quiet start to his career, but he splashed a cold-blooded dagger to send the Pistons packing.

It’s been a season of injuries thus far for the Pistons, but on the bright side, reserve guard Langston Galloway exploded for 32 points off the bench.

Rockets 111 (9-3), Pacers 102 (7-5)

James Harden is really about to average 40 points per game, isn’t he? The Beard dropped another absurd statistical line of 44 points, eight rebounds, five assists and four steals. Also, shoutout to Ben McLemore for stepping into the starting lineup and contributing 21 points. Good to see him thriving.

The Pacers lost Malcolm Brogdon to an early injury, but stayed in the game until the Beard put them away with step-back dagger after dagger.

Wizards 137 (3-7), Timberwolves 116 (7-5)

This was certainly an unexpected outcome! Good for the Wizards, who got a standout game from Bradley Beal (44 points, 10 assists), as well as an impressive game from Mo Wagner (30 points and 15 rebounds on 86 FG%). Wagner’s stat line makes him the first player since Yao Ming in 2002 to put up 30 points and 15 rebounds off the bench, per The Athletic’s Fred Katz.

To be fair, the Timberwolves were missing Andrew Wiggins, who has been fantastic thus far this season. Birthday boy Karl Towns may not have gotten the result he wanted, but he still put up an impressive 36 points and 10 rebounds (and seven turnovers).

Grizzlies 107 (5-7), Jazz 106 (8-4)

Awesome win for the Grizzlies, getting a win against an old friend in Mike Conley. Rookie point guard Ja Morant has become a must-watch; it seems like he has at least two jaw-dropping highlights a game. He finished with 25 points and eight assists.

Donovan Mitchell (29 points, nine rebounds and five assists) and Rudy Gobert (23 points, 17 boards and five blocks) both had stellar performances, but it clearly was not enough.

Thunder 127 (5-7), 76ers 119 (7-5)

Quite a night for upsets. The gritty Thunder gutted out a tough victory against the imposing 76ers. It was a full team effort, with Danillo Gallinari scoring 28, Chris Paul scoring 27 (with the dagger), Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scoring 24 and Terrance Ferguson pouring in 19.

It’s definitely a disappointing loss for a heavily favored 76ers team, but at least they can take solace in the fact that offseason acquisition Josh Richardson scored 28 points and has acquitted himself nicely over this first few weeks.

Lakers 99 (10-2), Kings 97 (4-7)

In a thrilling back-and-forth duel, the Lakers emerged victorious thanks to some LeBron James brilliance and a clutch Anthony Davis rim denial. Also, LeBron had the dunk of the year, so no big deal.

The Kings hung on until the very end, thanks to Bogdan Bogdanovic’s contorting layups and contested threes, but it wasn’t enough to stop the rollicking Lakers.

Celtics 101 (10-1), Warriors 100 (2-11)

The Celtics remain the only team in the league with a single loss, edging out the Warriors late in the game. Jayson Tatum, Kemba Walker and Jaylen Brown all showed out, putting up a combined 66 points.

The shorthanded Warriors played their tails off, and they may have found something in rookie Eric Paschall, who has looked like a mini-Draymond. Alec Burks also chipped in 20 points off the bench.

The post Post Up: LeBron James Slams Home Poster Dunk of the Season as Lakers improve to 10-2 appeared first on SLAM.

It took a balanced Nets effort to beat the explosive Rockets, and ultimately Kyrie Irving‘s late-game heroics were too much to handle. Irving had himself a 22 point, 10 assist double-double, while Taurean Prince (27 points, 12 rebounds) and Caris LeVert (25 points, four rebounds, four assists) also aided in the victory.

The Rockets may have had their three-game win streak snapped, but their superstar pairing is still putting up monster numbers. Russell Westbrook had 27 points, seven rebounds, eight assists and four steals, while James Harden, in what has become a regular occurrence, scored 36 points and tossed eight assists, which is actually his AVERAGE for the season. Dude is just ridiculous.

Pacers 102 (2-3), Cavaliers 95 (2-3)

Both teams struggled to reach 40% from the field, but ultimately the Pacers came out on top through the brute force of Domantas Sabonis (18 points, 17 rebounds and two blocks) and Malcolm Brogdon‘s continued breakout season (25 points, eight rebounds and six assists).

Despite Kevin Love‘s super-charged double-double of 22 points and 17 rebounds, 95 total points just is not going to cut it in today’s fast-paced NBA.

Bucks 123 (3-2), Magic 91 (2-3)

Despite getting off to a rusty start, the Bucks made easy work of the Magic, stomping them by 31 points. Giannis Antetokounmpo had another phenomenal game, scoring 29 points, grabbing 14 rebounds, dishing six assists and snatching six steals.

No one stood out too much for the Magic, although Evan Fournier chipped in 19 points on an efficient 7-12 shooting in just 22 minutes.

Celtics 104 (4-1), Knicks 102 (1-5)

Thanks to a magnificent Jayson Tatum fade-away buzzer beater, the Celtics buried the pesky Knicks in regulation. Kemba Walker has really started to acclimate well to his new environment, scoring 33 points and making all 14 of his free-throw attempts.

For the Knicks, Marcus Morris dropped 29 points and 9 rebounds, but overall, it looks like it will be another tough season in the Big Apple.

Bulls 112 (2-4), Pistons 106 (2-4)

A battle of two middling Eastern Conference playoff teams may not look exciting on the surface, but in reality, we were treated to some quality entertainment. First off, any time Derrick Rose returns to Chicago, emotions run high, and that was reflected when the fans chanted “MVP” as Rose checked in for the first time. And while labeling Rose as an MVP is obviously superlative, he’s been a godsend to a Pistons team lacking playmaking options with Blake Griffin sidelined.

Rose added 23 points and seven assists off the bench, while center Andre Drummond continued his stat-stuffing binge, scoring 25 points and swallowing 24 rebounds. For the Bulls, Zach LaVine and Otto Porter led the team to victory with 26 and 22 points, respectively.

Lakers 119 (4-1), Mavericks 110 (3-2)

This game has an early case for Game of the Year. We were treated to a vintage LeBron James performance, as the King put up a crazy 39 points, 12 rebounds, 16 assists and four steals, as well as the perfect pass to Danny Green to force OT. In addition, the King hit a dagger step-back 3 to seal the deal. Anthony Davis also showed out with 31 points and eight rebounds.

The Mavericks took a tough loss, but they have to be even more ecstatic with Luka Doncic‘s progression from star to superstar. Doncic was phenomenal last season, but many Mavericks games were not competitive. To see him absolutely ball out to the tune of 29 points, 13 rebounds and 15 assists in a primetime game is a sight to behold. Long live Luka.

Kings 102 (1-5), Jazz 101 (4-2)

The Kings are winless no more! After a surprising 0-5 start, Sacramento gutted out a gritty victory over the Jazz. Guard De’Aaron Fox led the way with 25 points, five rebounds and four assists, as well as this acrobatic circuit shot. It’s hard to explain how this even went in:

But it would have been all for nothing if Harrison Barnes didn’t come up clutch with the put-back.

Spurs 127 (4-1), Warriors 110 (1-4)

Patty Mills exploded for 31 points off the bench as the irrepressible Spurs moved to 4-1, while the Warriors embarked on life without Stephen Curry, who tragically broke his hand against the Suns.

D’Angelo Russell enjoyed the increased spotlight, as he dropped 30 points and eight assists in the loss, albeit on 9-24 shooting. After five years of dominance, it’s going to be a tough season for the Dubs.

The post Post Up: LeBron Leads Lakers Over Mavs in Thrilling OT Victory appeared first on SLAM.

Below is a list of the contract types the San Antonio Spurs have heading into training camp. This resource will be updated as players are signed and waived. Check back often to see if your team’s roster configuration has changed.

San Antonio Spurs

For a complete list of all the NBA teams and links to each team’s roster breakdown, check out our 2019 NBA Training Camp Index. Follow the curators of this database, Chris Crouse and Austin Kent, on Twitter.

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Led by Ricky Rubio and Marc Gasol, Spain went undefeated on their way to a title. They locked up their second WC championship with a 95-75 victory over Argentina. With an average age over 30, their 12-man roster was actually the oldest to take gold since 1978. 

Much of the conversation surrounding this year’s tournament centered on the players not participating. Ben Simmons (Australia), Jamal Murray (Canada), James Harden (USA), Anthony Davis (USA) and Damian Lillard (USA) are just a few of the guys who dropped out in the weeks prior. But to focus on those absent was to ignore and disrespect the talent that was on display, as Donovan Mitchell and Gregg Popovich emphasized during a postgame press conference. 

“I know that people are going to focus on who we didn’t have, but how about we focus on who we do have,” Mitchell said, after USA’s loss to France. “Our [NBA] season ended, and we came out ready to work with Coach Pop and all his coaches. It’s not about who’s not here.”

“It’s also a disrespectful notion to bring something like that up and say, ‘You didn’t have this guy or that guy,’” Pop added. “That’s disrespectful to France and whoever else is in the tournament. France beat us. Doesn’t matter who is on the team, and I couldn’t be prouder of these 12 guys who sacrificed their summer to come here, having never played with each other before, and they put themselves in the arena and competed, and they deserve credit for that.” 

Under intense pressure and amid crazy environments, players from across the world shined out in China. Let’s focus on that. Below are some of the standouts.

—

Ricky Rubio (Spain): Gold Medal, MVP, All-Star 5

Rubio was the floor general for the champs. He controlled the pace of games and was aggressive on both ends, averaging 16.4 points, 6.0 assists, 4.6 rebounds and 1.5 steals. In the final against Argentina, he led his team with 20 points and kept them in the driver’s seat. Since 1994, he’s the only player to record 100+ assists and 50+ steals in a single World Cup. Spain had a balanced attack, but Rubio was their most reliable creator on their road to the title.

Marc Gasol (Spain): Gold Medal, All-Star 5

When Spain needed him most, Gasol delivered. His best game came in the semifinal against Australia, a double-overtime thriller. The big man finished with 33 points, 6 rebounds and 2 blocks and made clutch free throws down the stretch. He followed that up with another impressive performance in the final (14 points, 7 rebounds, 7 assists, 3 blocks), earning a spot in the All-Star 5 alongside Rubio.

Luis Scola (Argentina): Silver Medal, All-Star 5

Though Argentina ultimately fell short of gold, Luis Scola was the biggest story of the tournament. Participating in his fifth World Cup, the 39-year-old forward set records, posted incredible numbers (17.9 points, 8.1 rebounds) and steered a team (along with star point guard Facundo Campazzo) featuring no NBA players on an improbable journey to the final. During the group stage, he passed Australia’s Andrew Gaze to become the second leading scorer in World Cup history. He had 20 points in a shocking win over Serbia in the quarterfinals and 28 points in another upset over France in the semis. 

When Scola first joined the senior national squad in 1999, his current teammate Maximo Fjellerup was a one-year-old. It’s been two decades since then and somehow Scola’s still going strong. His legendary run was what stood out the most from this competition.

Bogdan Bogdanovic (Serbia): All-Star 5

Serbia underachieved at the World Cup, but Mr. Automatic exceeded expectations. Bogdanovic was unstoppable offensively, averaging 22.9 points on an insane 56% shooting from the field and 53% from deep. With the closer arc, he nailed more threes by himself (35) than seven of the 32 teams in the pool. He dropped 30+ twice and helped guide Serbia to a victory over the United States in the classification round. 

Evan Fournier (France): Bronze Medal, All-Star 5

While Rudy Gobert held down France’s defense, it was Evan Fournier who carried them on the other end. The 26-year-old guard was the go-to scorer his team desperately needed. Fournier showed the full arsenal during the tournament, working off high screens to create open threes, midrange fade-aways and floaters in the paint. His 158 points (19.8 per game) was the most ever recorded by a French player in the World Cup (previous high was Maxime Dorigo with 153 in 1963). 

Patty Mills (Australia)

Head coach Andrej Lemanis (NBL) had Patty Mills sprinting around screens like Ray Allen, orchestrating the pick-and-roll up top and pushing the ball in transition—an approach that led the Boomers to a fourth-place finish, their highest ever rank in the World Cup. Patty was the only player to score 15+ points in each of his eight games and went for 30 or more twice. Along with Bogdanovic and Corey Webster (see below), he was clearly one of the best shooters in the tournament.

Tomas Satoransky (Czech Republic)

Czech Republic made the most of their first appearance in the World Cup. They caught people’s attention with a win over Turkey to advance out of the opening group stage and continued on to the knockout round. Satoransky was at the center of everything they did, posting 15.5 points, 8.5 assists and 5.6 rebounds per game. He was the only one in the tournament to average 15+ points, 5+ rebounds and 5+ assists.

Cedi Osman (Turkey)

Don’t let those missed free throws against USA cloud Cedi’s overall World Cup. Turkey was competitive throughout and he was the primary reason, averaging 20.4 points on 50 percent shooting from the field. After an encouraging NBA season, the young forward showed further signs of improvement out in China.

Corey Webster (New Zealand)

If you didn’t know who Corey Webster was a few weeks ago, you should now. The 6-2 guard from the NBL was a star for New Zealand, putting up 22.8 points and 5.6 assists per game. He was the focus of an offense that averaged the most points of any team at the World Cup (99.4). Through five games, Webster was also in 50-40-90 club.

Kemba Walker (USA)

USA had its struggles, finishing in seventh place—their worst ever ranking in the World Cup. But Kemba put together some really nice performances and led the squad in both points (14.4) and assists (5.4) per game, even while battling illness for a portion of the trip. He took over late in an overtime win against Turkey and was in full control during back-to-back victories against Greece and Brazil that secured a spot in the quarterfinals.

Guna RA (Korea)

The leading PPG scorer (23.0) in the entire tournament, big man Guna RA did all he could for his country. He was the only player to notch a double-double in every game he appeared in and capped an incredibly productive run with 26 points and 16 boards against Ivory Coast to help Korea get in the win column.

—

Alex Squadron is an Associate Editor at SLAM. Follow him on Twitter @asquad510.

Photos via FIBA and Getty.

The post Standout Players from the 2019 FIBA Basketball World Cup appeared first on SLAM.

The results of the first round carry over into the second and the remaining countries are placed into new groups. Every advancing team will play against two teams that they did not face in the first round.

Here’s a list of which teams remain after the first round of action:

Group I

• Argentina (3-0)
• Poland (3-0)
• Venezuela (2-1)
• Russia (2-1)

The 39-year-old Luis Scola (Argentina) is the player with the most FIBA World Cup experience in this tournament. The 2019 games are his fifth time participating in the FIBA World Cup, as our own Alex Squadron recently detailed. And while Scola isn’t currently on an NBA roster, he has the most NBA experience in this group. No other country has an active player on their squad.

Group J

• Serbia (3-0)
• Spain (3-0)
• Italy (2-1)
• Puerto Rico (2-1)

Serbia boasts several NBA players including Nikola Jokic, Bogdan Bogdanovic, and Boban Marjanovic. Their match-up with Spain (8:30am, Sunday) led by Marc Gasol, Ricky Rubio, and Juancho Hernangomez should be the premier contest in the group.

Group K

• USA (3-0)
• Brazil (3-0)
• Greece (2-1)
• Czech Republic (2-1)

USA Basketball will take on the Giannis Antetokounmpo-led Greece team on Saturday. Antetokounmpo is arguably the best player remaining in the tournament, while USA Basketball is, by many accounts, the best team. Team USA will take on Brazil on Monday and will need to win just one of the two games to advance to the next stage.

Group L

• France (3-0)
• Australia (3-0)
• Lithuania (2-1)
• Dominican Republic (2-1)

Australia is the only team to beat Team USA, though it came during exhibition play (knock on wood if you thought Cedi Osman was going to make his free throws during the Turkey match-up). While the country lacks an NBA star, it has several notable players on the roster including Andrew Bogut, Patty Mills, Aron Baynes, and Joe Ingles. The Aussies aren’t the only dangerous team in the group, as France yields Rudy Gobert and Evan Fournier in its attack and Lithuania has a fearsome frontcourt headlined by Domantas Sabonis and Jones Valanciunas.

The post 2019 FIBA World Cup Update: 16 Teams Remain appeared first on SLAM.

We’ve broken down the overall ratings for each player and sorted them by team so that you can see how your squad stacks up against the rest of the league.

San Antonio Spurs NBA 2K20 Ratings

This table is updated as of Nov. 22, 2019

Can’t get enough 2K? SLAM’s dedicated gaming channel, @SLAMftw, is blowing up. Hit us with your best uploads and watch our streams!

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The USA led the entire game, and by as much as 24 points in the fourth quarter.

Jaylen Brown dropped a team-high 19 points (8-11 FG). Myles Turner scored 10 points with 15 boards. Kemba Walker and Donovan Mitchell both added 12 points.

“We got a lot of room for growth,” Brown said after the game. “It’s going to be good when it all comes together, but we got to keep working, keep watching film and keep holding each other accountable.”

For Canada, Kyle Wiltjer dropped a game-high 21 points (8-13 FG). Khem Birch came off the bench to score 13 points with a team-high 6 boards.

Team USA will play its first FIBA World Cup game against the Czech Republic in Shanghai on September 1.

RELATED: Patty Mills Leads Australia Past Team USA in World Cup Exhibition Game

The post Jaylen Brown Leads USA To Blowout Win Vs Canada in FIBA Exhibition Game 🇺🇸 appeared first on SLAM.

It was the first loss for the United States in a major international tournament or exhibition since the 2006 FIBA World Championship semifinals against Greece.

Patty Mills dropped a game-high 30 points (4-10 3FG). Joe Ingles scored 15 points with 7 dimes and 4 boards. Andrew Bogut came off the bench to add 16 points (7-8 FG), 9 boards and 4 dimes.

For the USA, Kemba Walker dropped a team-high 22 points. Harrison Barnes scored 20 points (3-5 3FG) with a team-high 6 boards.

“They wanted it more than us tonight. Lesson learned for us,” Walker said after the game.

Team USA will travel to Sydney for an exhibition game against Canada on Monday.

RELATED: Kemba Walker Leads Team USA Past Australia

The post Patty Mills Leads Australia Past Team USA in World Cup Exhibition Game 🇦🇺 appeared first on SLAM.

Myles Turner added 15 points and 14 rebounds for the U.S., which pulled away in the second half.

Patty Mills and Chris Goulding each scored 19 for Australia, and head coach Gregg Popovich said it was good for the Americans to get tested early in the lead up to the World Cup that starts next week in China.

Per The AP:

“We have guys that are just starting to play with each other,” said U.S. guard Donovan Mitchell, who had 13 points. “We got off to a little bit of a rough start in the first half, but the third quarter, we really picked it up defensively.”

Walker was one the keys for the second-half resurgence for the Americans, scoring 21 of his 23 points after halftime.

“I’m one of the leaders of this team, so it’s important for me to set that tone,” the Celtics guard said.

Adversity struck, and the U.S. answered.

“One of our big mantras has been ‘composure and poise,’” Popovich said. “Things are going to go the other way in some games. And the way you respond to that is really the measure of how you’re going to do.”

Related Kemba Walker ‘Could Care Less’ About Trash Talk from Serbian National Team Coach

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In just a few days, the tournament will kick off in China (a first-time host) with a record 32 teams. Seven are from the Americas, eight from Asia and Oceania, five from Africa and 12 from Europe. Over 16 days (Aug. 31-Sep. 15), 92 games will be played in eight different cities: Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Wuhan, Dongguan, Foshan, Nanjing and Guangzhou. 

The participating countries were divided into eight groups during a live draw back in March:

GROUP A: Cote d’Ivoire, Poland, Venezuela, China

GROUP B: Russia, Argentina, Korea, Nigeria

GROUP C: Spain, Iran, Puerto Rico, Tunisia

GROUP D: Angola, Philippines, Italy, Serbia

GROUP E: Turkey, Czech Republic, USA, Japan

GROUP F: Greece, New Zealand, Brazil, Montenegro

GROUP G: Dominican Republic, France, Germany, Jordan

GROUP H: Canada, Senegal, Lithuania, Australia

These teams will matchup in the first round of the tournament, spanning from Aug. 31-Sept. 5. The top two from each group will then advance to the second round, where they will be coupled with two other teams from a separate group. Once again, the pool will be cut in half before the quarterfinals, which begin September 10. The bracket then becomes single elimination up until the championship (September 15) in Beijing. 

Seven countries (two from the Americas, two from Europe and one each from the Africa, Asia and Oceania regions) will qualify for the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo based on the results of the World Cup. 

USA took home the gold medal in the previous World Cup (2014), with Serbia claiming silver and France winning bronze.

Here are seven storylines to keep an eye on this year: 

1. Who Will Lead Team USA?

With big names like Anthony Davis, James Harden and Damian Lillard dropping out of the pool, the question remains: Who will be the leader of Team USA? This is the final roster:

PG: Kemba Walker, Derrick White

SG: Donovan Mitchell, Jaylen Brown, Marcus Smart, Joe Harris

SF/PF: Khris Middleton, Jayson Tatum, Harrison Barnes

C: Myles Turner, Brook Lopez, Mason Plumlee

Seven of those have Team USA experience, having thrived on the junior level. Kemba Walker was named MVP of the FIBA U18 Americas Championship in 2008 and is likely to take on another big role with this squad. At 29, the three-time All-Star is a veteran presence and perhaps USA’s best overall playmaker. Walker, who signed with the Boston Celtics this summer, is coming off the best year of his career, in which he averaged 25.6 points, 5.9 assists and 4.4 rebounds per game. 

“This is like a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for a lot of us,” Walker told reporters after a practice in Las Vegas. “I think a lot of us are happy those guys pulled out. This is our chance to get on the big stage and showcase our talents. It’s a chance for us to do something new, to be a new-look team.”

Both Utah’s Donovan Mitchell and Milwaukee’s Khris Middleton are used to carrying significant scoring loads. Mitchell averaged a team-high 23.8 points per game in 2018-19, while Middleton, a first-time All-Star, posted 18.3 points on 38% shooting from three. 

Tatum and Brown have shown incredible potential and are looking to further prove themselves after a rocky overall season in Boston. The World Cup provides their first platform.

And of course, head coach Gregg Popovich and assistant Steve Kerr will be stabilizing forces. This will be Pop’s first time at the helm, as Mike Krzyzewski recently stepped down after 12 years with an 88-1 record and five gold medals. 

2. The New Boston Celtics

Four Celtics—Walker, Tatum, Brown and Smart—are headed to China. That core has already spent ample time bonding, on and off the floor, at training camp and during exhibition tours.

“Obviously me, JB and Smart got a lot of chemistry, so now we’re trying to add Kemba and get him acclimated,” said Tatum. “Dinners—things off the court are just as important, so we’re starting that early this offseason.” 

We’ll get a chance to see how Walker gels with some of his new teammates in live, competitive action. And the fact that they have the next month or so to get to know each other better, things should be a lot easier when the NBA season comes around. 

3. The Antetokounmpo Brothers

“I would exchange the MVP title for the World Cup title in China.” – Giannis Antetokounmpo

Along with his siblings Thanasis and Kostas, the Greek Freak will proudly represent his country in the upcoming World Cup. 

“It is an incredible feeling that all three of us are together,” Giannis told FIBA. “We have worked very hard to get here and to achieve this. That’s why I know that our mother is proud, as is our father, who I’m sure is watching us from the heavens.”

From being named Most Valuable Player to getting his own signature sneaker from Nike, this has been the summer of Giannis. He’ll become the first player to compete in the World Cup right after winning MVP. He was back in Greece with his family promoting the Zoom Freak 1 not too long ago and the support was incredible. 

Together, the Antetokounmpo brothers are hoping to dominate Group F (Greece, Montenegro, Brazil, New Zealand) and make some serious noise in the tournament. 

Greece was the last team to beat Team USA in the World Cup, winning 101-95 in the 2006 semi-finals. Giannis was just 11 years old at the time. 

4. Rui Hachimura

Former Gonzaga standout Rui Hachimura made history in June, becoming the first Japanese player to be selected in the first round of the NBA Draft (No. 9 by the Washington Wizards). He’s already a hero back home and will now try to guide his country as far as he can through the World Cup. Tokyo is hosting the 2020 Olympics, so Rui figures to remain in the spotlight for awhile. 

“I think 2020 will be another landmark opportunity to make basketball popular in Japan, and I think Rui will have a big part in that for sure,” Gonzaga’s team video coordinator Ken Nakagawa, whose parents were both Japanese, told SLAM.

It all starts this summer. Just how special is the soon-to-be face of Olympic basketball? The 6-8 forward will have a major opportunity to show out when Japan plays USA on September 5th, the final day of Group E competition. 

“Japan hasn’t had a lineup like this before, and I think, looking around the world, there are few teams that can form a lineup like this,” Hachimura told FIBA. “I’m thrilled about it.”

5. The Group of Death

Only two teams from a stacked Group H (Canada, Senegal, Lithuania, Australia) can advance to the second round. 

Though Canada will be without several notable players, they still have NBA talent (Cory Joseph, Khem Birch), former college stars (Oshae Brissett, Melvin Ejim, Brady Heslip, Kyle Wiltjer) and head coach Nick Nurse in the mix. Senegal, led by Minnesota Timberwolves big man Gorgui Dieng, went 10-2 in the African Qualifiers. For Lithuania, Domantas Sabonis and Jonas Valanciunas form as talented a frontcourt as you’ll see in the tournament. And finally, Australia will try to make up for Ben Simmons’ absence with guys like Joe Ingles, Patty Mills, Matthew Dellavedova, Andrew Bogut, Aron Baynes and Jonah Bolden (a team that beat USA in an exhibition). 

“With the team that we’ve got, that we will have, we’re going to be confident. We believe. Even the last couple of tournaments we’ve been to, we were right there,” Ingles told FIBA. “For me and our team, when we play for our country, we take tremendous pride in that. We’re not representing one person, we are representing 23 million people or whatever we got in Australia right now.”

6. Nikola Jokic Leads Serbia

Nuggets center Nikola Jokic had a monster 2018-19 NBA season: 20.1 points, 10.8 rebounds and 7.3 assists per game. He’ll be the centerpiece on a deep Serbian squad that includes Sacramento’s Bogdan Bogdanovic and Nemanja Bjelica, Dallas’ Boban Marjanovich, Milos Teodosic and Miroslav Raduljica.

With the Joker ascending into a superstar, Serbia is slated as the second favorite to win the World Cup behind the United States and far ahead of Spain at No. 3, per Westgate Superbook. 

Serbia locked up silver at the previous World Cup in 2014 (without Jokic) and at the Olympics in 2016 (with Jokic). They seem like a good bet to reach the podium once again and are the most likely team to give USA trouble. 

“Let’s let [Team USA] play their basketball and we will play ours and if we meet, may God help them,” coach Sash Djordjevic said during an interview with Serbian national television, per Mozzart Sport.

7. Luis Scola

The Argentinian power forward will be playing in his fifth FIBA World Cup, dating back to 2002. As of right now, Scola is third in total points scored in World Cup competition, just 21 shy of Australia’s Andrew Gaze at the No. 2 spot. 

Scola recently guided Argentina to a championship at the Pan American Games in Peru, dropping 28 in an 84-66 victory over Puerto Rico in the Finals. It was the fifth major honor the big man has earned with the national team, including Olympic gold in 2004, the FIBA Diamond Ball in 2008 and two FIBA Americas Championships in 2001 and 2011. 

Throughout July and August, much of the conversation about the World Cup has centered on guys deciding not to play, such as AD for USA, Simmons for Australia and Jamal Murray for Canada. Scola’s story is the complete opposite. He’s participated whenever given the opportunity and at 39, ten years older than anyone else on the Argentinian team at the Pan-Am Games, is still going strong.  

—

For more news and information, head to the FIBA website.

Alex Squadron is an Associate Editor at SLAM. Follow him on Twitter @asquad510.

Photos via Getty.

The post 2019 FIBA Basketball World Cup Preview: Details and Major Storylines appeared first on SLAM.

The 6’4″ guard spent four years at Mississippi State. He’s one of just three players at the university to score 2,000 points during his collegiate career.

San Antonio has a deep backcourt rotation that includes DeMar DeRozan, Dejounte Murray, Bryn Forbes, Derrick White, Patty Mills, Marco Belinelli and Lonnie Walker. Weatherspoon likely won’t be asked to play serious minutes at the NBA level, instead, he’ll spend most of his time with Austin Spurs, the team’s G League affiliate.

The post Spurs Sign Quinndary Weatherspoon To Two-Way Deal appeared first on SLAM.

Toronto took care of business at home as four Raptors finished with 20-plus-point performances: Pascal Siakam (23 points), Norman Powell (23 points), Kawhi Leonard (22 points) and Danny Green (21 points).

Spurs 112 (47-34), Cavaliers 90 (19-62)

LaMarcus Aldridge posted a double-double with 18 points and 13 rebounds. DeMar DeRozan, Patty Mills and Davis Bertans had 14 apiece.

Hornets 104 (38-42), Pistons 91 (39-41)

Kemba Walker scored 20 of his 31 points in the first half as the Hornets have won three straight and are doing everything to get that eighth seed.

Thunder 132 (47-33), Timberwolves 126 (36-44)

Russell Westbrook (27 points, 15 assists, 10 rebounds) got his 32nd triple-double of the season in Sunday’s matinee. Paul George also had 27 points, too, and Dennis Schroder had 14 of his 21 points in the fourth quarter. The Thunder are currently in seventh place in the Western Conference.

Nets 108 (41-40), Pacers 96 (47-34)

D’Angelo Russell posted 30 points to give the Nets a playoff berth since 2015. Joe Harris was the team’s second-leading scorer with 19 points. Jarrett Allen had 12 and Spencer Dinwiddie and Caris LeVert had a combined 30 bench points.

Mavericks 129 (32-48), Grizzlies 127 (32-48)

Salah Mejri’s bucket in the fourth quarter kept Dallas’ hopes alive. He then scored the first seven points in overtime, finishing the game with 19 points.

Rockets 149 (53-28), Suns 113 (19-62)

James Harden only needed three quarters to get a 30-piece in the rout. The Rockets also made 27 3-pointers, setting a new NBA record for most made 3’s by a team. Eric Gordon (26 points) led the team with eight triples.

Bucks 115 (60-21), Hawks 107 (29-52)

Giannis Antetokounmpo’s 30 points helped the Bucks get to 60 wins for the first time since 1981. Khris Middleton chipped in 21 points.

Magic 116 (41-40), Celtics 108 (48-33)

The Magic will see postseason play after breaking a seven-year playoff drought. Terrence Ross was Orlando’s leading scorer with 26 points; Nikola Vucevic finished with a double-double (25 points, 12 rebounds) and Evan Fournier dropped 24.

Knicks 113 (16-64), Wizards 110 (32-49)

Mario Hezonja put a 30 points (career high) and hit a go-ahead 3-pointer with under a minute left. Kevin Knox put up 16 points and Dennis Smith Jr had 15 off the bench.

Blazers 115 (51-29), Nuggets 108 (53-27)

Damian Lillard led all scorers with 30 points. Enes Kanter, filling in the void with Jusuf Nurkic out, had 11 points and 13 rebounds. Seth Curry and Rodney Hood had 11 points apiece off the bench.

Pelicans 133 (33-48), Kings 129 (39-42)

Ian Clark had a career-best seven 3-pointers to finish the game with 31 points. Elfrid Payton was big down the stretch, scoring 12 of his 25 points in crunch time.

Lakers 113 (37-44), Jazz 109 (49-31)

Four of five starters finished in double digits. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope had 32 points. Despite finishing with five points, Jemerrio Jones, who was a late season acquisition, grabbed 16 rebounds in his first start in front of the Staples Center crowd.

Warriors 131 (56-24), Clippers 104 (47-34)

It was a special night at Oracle Arena. Golden State brought out the “We Believe” jerseys for their final regular season game at home. Stephen Curry had 27 points as the Warriors clinched the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference.

The post Post Up: Warriors Clinch Top Seed in Win Over Clippers appeared first on SLAM.

The Bucks’ All-Star duo of Khris Middleton (39 points) and Giannis Antetokounmpo (34 points) combined to shoot a blistering 26-for-43 from the field as they fended off the red-hot Clippers.

Rookie Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored a team-high 21 for the Clippers.

Cavaliers 110 (19-57), Spurs 116 (44-32)

Patty Mills knocked down a dagger 3 in the game’s closing minute to give Spurs fans something to cheer about as Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobli and Tony Parker were in the house to celebrate Ginobli’s jersey going into the rafters.

DeMar DeRozan scored a team-high 25 points in the win.

Magic 98 (37-39), Pistons 115 (38-37)

Wayne Ellington knocked down seven 3’s en route to a game-high 25 points and Andre Drummond added 18 points, 18 boards and six blocks as the Pistons picked up a HUGE win in the Eastern Conference playoff race.

With the win, Detroit — currently the 6-seed — moved 1.5 games ahead of 9-seed Orlando.

Nets 110 (38-38), Sixers 123 (48-27)

Joel Embiid stuffed the stat sheet with 39 points, 13 rebounds, six dimes and three steals as the Sixers jumped out to a 15-point first quarter lead and never looked back.

Boban Marjanovic scored 16 off the pine in 18 minutes of action.

Mavericks 99 (29-46), Heat 105 (37-38)

Dwyane Wade and Dirk Nowitzki entered their final match-up tied up 17-17 all-time in head-to-head meetings, and round 35 went down to the final minute as Wade’s dagger secured himself a winning record in one of the League’s most underrated rivalries.

Wade finished the night with 11 points and four steals and Nowitzki scored 13 points and nailed three 3’s.

Raptors 117 (53-23), Knicks 92 (14-61)

Pascal Siakam scored 31 points as the Raptors blew out the Knicks at MSG. Rookie Mitchell Robinson shined for New York, scoring 19 on 8-for-12 shooting and grabbing 21 rebounds.

Nuggets 85 (50-24), Rockets 112 (48-28)

James Harden scored 38 as the Rockets blew out the Nuggets in what may have been a Western Conference playoff match-up preview.

Kings 118 (37-38), Pelicans 121 (32-45)

The Kings’ backcourt got theirs — Buddy Hield scored 27 and De’Aaron Fox had 25 — but it wasn’t enough to overcome 34 points and 11 boards from Julius Randle.

The post Post Up: Spurs Win for Ginobli, Wade Edges Nowitzki in Final Battle appeared first on SLAM.

Out in Denver, the Kyrie 5 was a popular option on the night with no less than four different colorways hitting the floor of the Pepsi Center. The models worn included the “Cookies & Cream,” “Just Do It,” the “CNY” and a tough black/red/cement jawn worn by the Nuggets’ Jarred Vanderbilt.

Photos via Getty Images

The post NBA Kicks of the Night appeared first on SLAM.

In newer kicks, Devin Booker and Chris Paul both wore “All-Star” colorways with Book rocking the Nike Zoom Kobe 4 Protro Paul wore his signature Jordan CP3.XI. Deandre Ayton continued the All-Star theme with his Puma Uproar and LeBron James also wore a mismatched pair as he brought out a Lakers PE of his Nike LeBron 16.

We’ve got close to 40 kicks from last night’s action so make sure you take a moment and check out the rest of the NBA’s best kicks.

Photos via Getty Images

The post NBA Kicks of the Night appeared first on SLAM.

Leonard “was a great player,” but Manu Ginobili and Patty Mills led the way, according to Pop.

Gregg Popovich was asked about Patty Mills' role as a leader this season, given the offseason losses of longtime Spurs like Manu Ginobili, Tony Parker and Kawhi Leonard. His answer: pic.twitter.com/NQRAZfeX9t

— Jeff McDonald (@JMcDonald_SAEN) November 25, 2018

Kawhi suited up in just nine games last season with the Spurs as he dealt with a lingering quadriceps injury, before he was traded to the Toronto Raptors.

Per USA Today:

Speaking to reporters before the Spurs played the Bucks in Milwaukee, Popovich was asked about the importance of Patty Mills’ leadership in lieu of Leonard’s trade and the departure of longtime stars Tony Parker (free agency) and Manu Ginobili (retirement).

“Kawhi was a great player, but he wasn’t a leader or anything,” Popovich said.

“Manu and Patty were the leaders. Kawhi’s talent will always be missed, but that leadership wasn’t his deal at that time. That may come as he progresses, but Manu and Patty filled that role last year, and LaMarcus (Aldridge) came a long way in that regard also.”

Related
Gregg Popovich: ‘Time to Move on’ from Kawhi Leonard

The post Gregg Popovich: Kawhi Leonard ‘Was a Great Player, But He Wasn’t a Leader’ appeared first on SLAM.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BqQAimEFmRz/

Russell Westbrook made the Top 5 for the third consecutive week, coming in at second place with a cozy Honor the Gift (his own brand) fit and Jordan Concord XI kicks.

Jimmy Butler made a solid first impression in his first game in Philadelphia as he sported Kenzo and and a Saint Laurent jacket, landing himself on the Top 5 rankings for the second consecutive week. Kelly Oubre (No. 3) and Patty Mills (No. 5) joined Paul as players to make their Top 5 debuts.

Hamidou Diallo was the only rookie featured this week, joining Mo Bamba, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Allonzo Trier and Luka Doncic as first-year players to be featured through the first month of the season.

John Wall, Dennis Schroder, Mike Conley, Kelly Oubre, Russell Westbrook, LeBron James and Kyle Kuzma each earned multiple mentions.

Last week ran from Nov. 9 until Nov. 17.

—

To keep up with the NBA’s Survival of the Fitted, follow @LeagueFits on Instagram and Twitter 

Ian Pierno is a Social Editor for SLAM. Follow him on Twitter at @IanPierno

Photos via Getty Images

The post Fits of the Week: Jimmy Butler Stunts in Philly Debut, CP3 Brings the #CamoDrip 💧 appeared first on SLAM.

LeBron James lit up Miami for a season-high 51 points tonight after Saturday’s disappointing loss to the Magic. James, who notched his 12th career 50-point game, hit six three-pointers in 38 minutes. He caught the hot hand scoring 19 first-quarter points. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope contributed 19 points off the bench as the Lakers prepare for James’s return to Cleveland on Wednesday.

The King taking flight in the 305! (via @NBA) pic.twitter.com/RIIUajAY56

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) November 18, 2018

Grizzlies 100 (10-5), Timberwolves 87 (7-10)

Marc Gasol was one assist short of a triple-double (26 points, 13 rebounds, 9 rebounds) to lead Memphis to the road win. Mike Conley and rookie Jaren Jackson Jr. contributed with 18 and 13, respectively. Karl-Anthony Towns and newcomer Robert Covington had 15 apiece for the Wolves.

Magic 131 (9-8), Knicks (4-13)

The Magic went 2-for-2 on the weekend to protect their home court. Aaron Gordon scored 20 of his 31 points in the first quarter, Nikola Vucevic finished with 28, 10 and 9 and Jonathan Issac chipped in 16 points as the Magic, who’ve won their last seven of nine games.

Trailblazers 119 (11-5), Wizards 109 (5-11)

Damian Lillard erupted for 40 points in the nation’s capital as the Blazers snapped a two-game losing streak. Lillard’s backcourt mate C.J. McCollum dropped 25 and Jusuf Nurkic had 13 points, 14 rebounds and a career-high 8 dimes.

.@Dame_Lillard messed around and had a 40-piece in DC. (via @NBATV) pic.twitter.com/8QIl7pIChC

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) November 19, 2018

Spurs 104 (7-7) , Warriors 92 (12-5)

Despite having 8 points, Patty Mills nailed a dagger down the stretch to put the Warriors away. LaMarcus Aldridge led all scorers with 24 points and DeMar DeRozan dropped 20 points. Rudy Gay contributed 19, including a rim-rocking dunk in the first half.

RUDY (via @NBATV) pic.twitter.com/umIeFRa2Tz

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) November 19, 2018

The post Post Up: LeBron James Scores Season-High 51 Points in Miami 🔥 appeared first on SLAM.

Once LeBron James put on the headband, you knew the game was going to be different. James helped the Lakers fend off the Wolves’ late comeback — led by Derrick Rose‘s two clutch buckets — finishing with 24 points, 10 rebounds and nine assists. Rose had 31 points and came up huge down the stretch, but ultimately fell just short.

LeBron. James. (via @NBA) pic.twitter.com/SEsz5bmpCa

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) November 8, 2018

Raptors 114 (11-1), Kings 105 (6-5)

Kawhi Leonard returned from his ankle injury in style. He led Toronto with 25 points and added 11 rebounds. Serge Ibaka continues to build on a career season, putting in 14 points and 14 rebounds as well. Willie Cauley-Stein and Buddy Hield each had 24 points in the loss, but it was an encouraging showing from the Kings’ young core.

It's so fun to have Kawhi back (via @Raptors) https://t.co/cpEWQPL2LL

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) November 8, 2018

76ers 100 (7-5), Pacers 94 (7-5)

The Pacers wouldn’t go away in this battle of top Eastern Conference teams, but the 76ers were able to hold off their comeback attempts. Joel Embiid (20 points, 10 rebounds) and Ben Simmons (16 points, 10 rebounds, eight assists) led their team to the win. Victor Oladipo’s 36-point effort came up just short despite 24 first-half points.

7'0" 6'10" https://t.co/Yt2wQy3X6S

— Philadelphia 76ers (@sixers) November 8, 2018

Mavericks 102 (3-8), Jazz 117 (5-6)

Donovan Mitchell had been dealing with a hamstring injury over the last couple of games, but he made the most of his return, dunking anything and everything. He notched 23 points along with seven assists and five rebounds. Rookie Luka Doncic scored 24 points for Dallas.

This Donovan Mitchell dunk in those jerseys (via @utahjazz) https://t.co/Yah2KSguc8

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) November 8, 2018

Pistons 103 (5-5), Magic 96 (4-7)

The Pistons’ frontcourt duo of Blake Griffin (20 points, five rebounds) and Andre Drummond (23 points, 19 rebounds) was the difference in Orlando. Evan Fournier continued a hot stretch of play with 27 points in 31 minutes.

Blake dropped 'em on the pick, then got the poster dunk. He's a monster this year (via @DetroitPistons) pic.twitter.com/L10eYdv4vR

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) November 8, 2018

Knicks 112 (4-8), Hawks 107 (3-8)

The Knicks and Hawks played neck and neck for the majority of the game, each side unable to pull away easily. But Tim Hardaway Jr.’s 34 points paced New York to the win against his former team. Omari Spellman led Atlanta in scoring with 18 points.

We got a man down thanks to Allonzo Trier (via @nyknicks) pic.twitter.com/i2L9iLxv0c

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) November 8, 2018

Spurs 88 (6-4), Heat 95 (5-5)

Hassan Whiteside made his presence felt in Miami. The big man registered eight blocks in the first half alone; he eventually finished with nine blocks, along with a double-double (29 points, 20 rebounds). Patty Mills dropped 20 points off the bench for San Antonio.

EIGHT blocks for Hassan Whiteside at *halftime*. He's got a triple-double in sight with 18 points and 14 rebounds already (via @MiamiHEAT) https://t.co/oYq7NVOWzW

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) November 8, 2018

Nuggets 87 (9-2), Grizzlies 89 (6-4)

Nikola Jokic didn’t attempt a single field goal until the last shot of the game, a three-pointer for the win, but he missed. The loss was only Denver’s second on the season. Rookie Jaren Jackson Jr. impressed for Memphis, notching 20 points, seven rebounds and three blocks.

Can't stop @jarenjacksonjr. Sorry, not sorry. pic.twitter.com/29qT3GMuao

— Memphis Grizzlies (@memgrizz) November 8, 2018

Bulls 98 (3-9), Pelicans 107 (5-6)

There is no stop for Anthony Davis. The big man posted 32 points, 15 rebounds and seven assists on the night. Teammate Jrue Holiday got close to a triple-double with 17 points, 10 rebounds and nine assists. Zach LaVine had 22 points in the loss.

AD makes it look so easy! #DoItBig pic.twitter.com/pTHPq39yJA

— NBA TV (@NBATV) November 8, 2018

Thunder 95 (6-4), Cavaliers 86 (1-10)

Dennis Schroder stepped up huge in the absence of Russell Westbrook, posting 28 points and seven rebounds in the win. Collin Sexton got his first start of the season and of his career, registering 15 points.

Terrance Ferguson claiming souls out here (via @NBATV) pic.twitter.com/ToReQR42fd

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) November 8, 2018

RELATED: 
Magic Johnson: ‘We’re Last in Defense. We Got to Get Better’

The post Post Up: Headband LeBron James Leads Lakers to Close Win appeared first on SLAM.

“I know what I got myself into,” James says.

Spurs rally to keep Lakers winless with LeBron, 143-142. https://t.co/7XokqCZOrD

— AP Sports (@AP_Sports) October 23, 2018

LeBron finished with 32 points, 14 assists and eight rebounds in a wild 143-142 overtime loss Monday night to the visiting San Antonio Spurs.

Per the AP:

James tied it on a magisterial 3 with 2.4 seconds left in regulation, and he finished his second Lakers home game with 32 points, 14 assists and eight rebounds.

But the superstar missed two free throws with 12.8 seconds to play before [Patty] Mills coolly put the Spurs ahead. James then missed a step-back 3-pointer at the buzzer, thoroughly deflating Staples Center as the Lakers fell to the first 0-3 start in James’ career since his second season with Cleveland in 2004-05.

“It’s not” discouraging, James said.

“I know what I got myself into,” he added. “It’s a process. I get it, and we’ll be fine. I didn’t come here thinking we were going to be blazing, storming right out of the gate. It’s a process, and I understand that.”

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‘It’s Not That Fast’: LeBron James and the Lakers Need Time to Jell

The post ‘I Know What I Got Myself Into’: LeBron James Downplays 0-3 Start appeared first on SLAM.

This year’s young Knicks squad continued its trend of fighting late into the fourth quarter, but a 14-3 run by the Bucks to close out regulation put the game to bed.

Milwaukee’s duo of Giannis Antetokounmpo and Khris Middleton combined for 61 points and Eric Bledsoe added 16 points and 13 dimes.

Trey Burke continued his hot play as the starting point guard, dropping 19 points and five dimes in 22 minutes for New York.

Wizards (1-2), Trail Blazers (2-1)

The Wizards delivered the Trail Blazers their first loss of the season as they picked up their first W off a game-winning shot in overtime by John Wall.

The game nearly didn’t go to overtime after Nik Stauskas nailed a 3 for Portland with 13 seconds to go, but Bradley Beal responded with a clutch shot of his own to send the game to an extra period.

Damian Lillard led all players with 29 points.

John Wall called game and pulled out the MJ shrug. Legendary. (via @WashWizards) https://t.co/GI5veKSUiO

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) October 23, 2018

Suns 103 (1-2), Warriors 123 (3-1)

The Warriors got to work early with 70 first half points and never looked back as Steph Curry lit up the highlight reel en route to 29 points in 30 minutes.

Devin Booker (28 points), DeAndre Ayton (20) and T.J. Warren (27) shined on the offensive end of the floor for the Suns.

Deadass, how do you stop Steph? (via @nba) pic.twitter.com/LRixBqvEB7

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) October 23, 2018

Nahhhhh it’s not fair when Steph gets to cookin’ like that (via @nba) pic.twitter.com/MNSMon219x

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) October 23, 2018

Spurs 143 (2-1), Lakers 142 (0-3)

Los Angeles made up an 8-point deficit with less than a minute to go after LeBron James knocked down a pull-up 3 in transition with 2.4 seconds to go; however, a pair of missed free throws late in overtime set up Patty Mills for the eventual game-winner.

Kyle Kuzma shined in the starting lineup, scoring 37 points on 15-for-25 shooting. LaMarcus Aldridge matched that scoring effort on the other end for San Antonio on a 13-for-22 shooting night.

A COLD-BLOODED KING (via @nbatv) pic.twitter.com/Cif6Pj1Ofs

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) October 23, 2018

Patty Mills nails the dagger.

What. A. Game. (via @nbatv) pic.twitter.com/GCsvHEF5RE

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) October 23, 2018

Magic 93 (2-2), Celtics 90 (2-2)

Boston coach Brad Stevens said his team had its best offensive night of the season, but it wasn’t enough to avoid an upset to Orlando.

All five of the Magic’s starters scored in double-digits as Nikola Vucevic led the way with 24 points and 12 boards. Kyrie Irving scored 22 for the Celtics.

Hornets 106 (2-2), Raptors 127 (4-0)

Kemba Walker’s scoring tear continued as he dropped 26 points on 11-for-22 shooting, but it wasn’t enough to the collective effort of eight Raptors scoring at least eight points. Kawhi Leonard scored a team-high 22 points.

Pacers 91 (2-2), Timberwolves 101 (2-2)

There were no boos for Jimmy Butler this time around in Minneapolis as he scored a team-high 20 points on 6-for-12 shooting. Karl-Anthony Towns had 17 points and 15 rebounds in his 250th career game.

Bulls 109 (0-3), Mavericks 115 (2-1)

Zach LaVine continued to show he has the makings of a superstar as he clocked out with 34 points on just 15 field goal attempts, but six Mavericks scoring at least 12 points was too much for his Chicago squad to overcome.

Wes Matthews, Luka Doncic and DeAndre Jordan combined for 57 points.

Zach LaVine’s hang time is outta hand tbh. (via @chicagobulls) pic.twitter.com/SkIZR13pY3

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) October 23, 2018

Grizzlies 92 (2-1), Jazz 84 (1-2)

In a year that’s seeing early season scoring records shattered, the Grizzlies proved that the grit ‘n’ grind style they’re known for hasn’t faded away quite yet as they held the Jazz to just 84 points and 35.4 percent shooting from the field.

Mike Conley scored 23 points and dropped seven dimes while Marc Gasol had 18 points and 13 boards.

The post Post Up: John Wall Delivers Game-Winner in Portland appeared first on SLAM.

This wasn’t the cleanest game of the playoffs, which usually works in Boston’s favor, but it managed to stay a close one to the end of regulation. The Celtics were the aggressors early on, holding Milwaukee to 15 first quarter points and leading by 11 at the half. However, with Jayson Tatum (8 points on 2-7 shooting) and Jaylen Brown (14 points on 5-13 shooting) struggling to make shots, Boston couldn’t put Milwaukee away.

The Bucks shot just 37 percent from the field as a team, but Khris Middleton (23 points) kept them in the game with contested makes whenever they needed one. Giannis (16 points, 10 rebounds, 9 assists) had a solid all-around night yet only took 10 shots and wasn’t able to get as much space as he likes offensively. Credit the return of Marcus Smart for that, at least partially.

Smart lobs it up, Horford throws it down! pic.twitter.com/tyPPXXAHd8

— Boston Celtics (@celtics) April 25, 2018

Jabari Parker and Eric Bledsoe (33 points combined) helped out, and Milwaukee somehow wound down 81-77 with 3:24 to play after a Bledsoe triple. But the Bucks just couldn’t get that next bucket, with missed free throws and open jumpers dooming them.

Al Horford (22 points, 14 rebounds) was probably the best player for either team. He committed six turnovers but spread the floor well, as he usually does, and bolstered Boston’s interior defense which limited what Giannis could do. The Celtics can clinch on Thursday night in Milwaukee.

76ers 104, Heat 91 (76ers win 4-1)

With Meek Mill sitting courtside as his hometown 76ers had the chance to clinch their first playoff series win since 2012, Wells Fargo Center sounded like its roof was going to burst all night long. All Brett Brown’s team needed to do was hold up its end of the bargain, which was in doubt after an even first half. The Heat even took a four-point lead a few minutes before the break.

Then, in the third quarter, Philly started to flex its muscles a bit. A 11-0 run put the 76ers in control and they went up by as much as 18 in the frame. Miami kept it a game, hanging around down 10-12 points the rest of the way, but Philly wasn’t blowing that lead. The final minutes felt like a real culmination of the Process, with fans ready to party and 76ers — namely Joel Embiid (19 points, 12 rebounds) — pumping them up even more.

Joel Embiid posts 19 PTS, 12 REB as the @sixers advance to the 2nd round!#PhilaUnite pic.twitter.com/plOaPYxIve

— NBA (@NBA) April 25, 2018

But it was one of Philly’s veterans — J.J. Redick (27 points) — that pushed the 76ers over the hump in a tough, physical game. It felt like he was constantly open and his off-ball movement wore Miami down as the Heat chased him through screen after screen. He made 5 of Philly’s 7 threes on a night when the 76ers shot just 25 percent from behind the arc.

It’s a frustrating end to a good season for the Heat, who withstood a lot of injuries and a letdown campaign from Hassan Whiteside to get back to the playoffs. Kelly Olynyk (18 points, 8 rebounds, 7 assists) did it all for Miami off the bench, while Goran Dragic (15 points) and Tyler Johnson (16 points in just 19 minutes due to foul trouble) anchored a starting lineup that got crushed by Philly’s starters. Josh Richardson was dealing with a shoulder injury that limited him to seven minutes while Whiteside and James Johnson scored a combined total of six points.

Warriors 99, Spurs 91 (Warriors win 4-1)

Without their coach and best player, there was every reason to think the Spurs were going to fold in a decisive Game 5 in Golden State. And, for awhile, it seemed as if they might. The Warriors built a double-digit lead behind big nights from Kevin Durant (25 points, 6 rebounds) and Klay Thompson (24 points) and were ahead 82-67 with 10 minutes left in the game.

Slowly but surely, as the Spurs have done forever under Gregg Popovich, San Antonio crawled back into this one. All of a sudden, a Davis Bertans triple cut the deficit to five. A minute later, the Dubs were up just 93-91 after LaMarcus Aldridge (30 points, 12 rebounds) knocked down a pair of free throws. However, it wasn’t meant to be, as KD drilled a 20-footer on the next possession. When Manu Ginobili threw a pass out of bounds right after, the comeback attempt was foiled.

LA with the bucket and the foul! pic.twitter.com/RVBLlIsjjw

— San Antonio Spurs (@spurs) April 25, 2018

Aldridge absolutely took over down the stretch and nearly led the Spurs to one of the most improbable playoff comebacks in recent memory. Patty Mills (18 points) hit some huge threes for San Antonio, which might have a very different roster come October. Draymond Green (17 points, 19 rebounds, 7 assists) did it all for Golden State on both ends of the floor. He even assisted KD on the dagger jumper.

With their series win, the Warriors will take on the Pelicans in the second round. KD and Anthony Davis, Jrue Holiday and Steph Curry (should he come back), doesn’t get much better than that.

The post Post Up: 76ers And Warriors Advance, Celtics Sneak Past Bucks appeared first on SLAM.

Robert Covington went with the wild Nike Hyperdunk 2017 Low Chicago “FINAO” and Markelle Fultz rocked his custom Nike LeBron 15 in Philly colors emblazoned with “F2G”—initials for Fultz’s motto of “faithful to the grind—painted all-over the midsole.

Dwyane Wade had an off night shooting just 2-10 from the field and finished the game with just eight points. But his Li-Ning’s still caught our attention along with James Johnson and Tyler Johnson’s pairs. Wade sported the strapless Way of Wade 6, with Bloodsport rocking an all-yellow WoW All City 5 and Bumpy in a custom pair of the Wade 6s.

Other noteworthy kicks on the evening included Draymond Green‘s Nike Zoom Rev 2018 PEs, Darius Miller‘s Air Jordan XI Retro “Win Like ’96,” Solomon Hill‘s red/white Nike PG1s and Patty Mills‘ custom Under Armour Curry 5, and Rajon Rondo’s blue Anta RR5s.

Photos via Getty Images

The post NBA Playoff Kicks of the Night appeared first on SLAM.

Even without Joel Embiid or Dario Saric, Philly dominated this one from the opening tip. The 76ers outrebounded Brooklyn by 20 and shot over 54 percent from the field while forcing 18 Nets turnovers. Philly sharpshooters J.J. Redick (19 points) and Marco Belinelli (17 points) ran circles around the Brooklyn defense, while Ben Simmons (15 points, 12 rebounds, 6 assists) put together his 36th double-double. He also became the second player in NBA history to eclipse 1,200 points, 600 rebounds and 600 assists in a rookie season. The other? Oscar Robertson.

Ben with the steal, Ben with the score. pic.twitter.com/Mp8xq5Gh2y

— x – Philadelphia 76ers (@sixers) April 3, 2018

Cavaliers 112 (48-30), Raptors 106 (55-22)

Toronto is still in a battle with Boston for both the No. 1 seed in the Eastern Conference and the Atlantic Division crown, so the Raptors’ recent swoon is more than just the result of complacency and may be a cause for concern. All five Cavaliers starters scored in double digits — led by LeBron‘s 27 points and 10 rebounds — as Cleveland led most of the way in Kyle Korver‘s return.

Kyle Lowry (5 points on 2-of-11 shooting) never got going and even Toronto’s stellar bench couldn’t make up the missed production. DeMar DeRozan had a team-high 19 points with seven dimes. The Cavs also need to keep winning to maintain their No. 3 spot in the East and, with the 76ers and Pacers bearing down, Cleveland having homecourt advantage in the first round is far from guaranteed. But, if the Cavs keep playing like this, they’ll be fine.

Heat 101 (42-36), Hawks 98 (22-56)

Atlanta is far from the postseason but gave the playoff-bound Heat a real scare on Tuesday night, leading 98-90 with three minutes left to play. However, as the final score would indicate, Miami scored the game’s final 11 points with a crazy rally and was able to seal the win with two last-second Josh Richardson blocks following a go-ahead Hassan Whiteside tip-in.

Whiteside gives Miami the lead! pic.twitter.com/itr8Bq4C2k

— Miami HEAT (@MiamiHEAT) April 4, 2018

John Collins (19 points, 10 rebounds) led the way for the Hawks, who also got 18 points off the bench from Tyler Dorsey. Goran Dragic had 22 points and 10 assists for Miami while Whiteside — days after complaining about his lack of playing time — posted an 18-point, 12-board double-double.

Magic 97 (23-54), Knicks 73 (27-51)

The Mario Hezonja redemption tour continues, as the former lottery pick — whose fourth-year option wasn’t picked up by the Magic earlier in the season — keeps playing well. He paced the Magic with 19 points on 7-of-12 shooting, as Orlando used a dominant final frame to beat up on the Knicks.

New York was just 4-of-27 from three-point range and scored a measly 28 second half points. Tim Hardaway Jr. scored 16 points in the defeat. It was a big loss for the Knicks from a draft pick perspective, as they entered a tie with the Bulls for the 8th-worst record in the Association.

Bulls 120 (27-51), Hornets 114 (34-45)

Chicago has followed up a seven-game losing streak with a fairly improbably three-game winning streak, especially for a team missing a good chunk of its starting lineup. Lauri Markkanen (24 points in 24 minutes) knocked down five triples while relative newcomer Sean Kilpatrick added 21 points off the bench.

Kilpatrick with the break away dunk pic.twitter.com/qPhL6x90km

— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) April 4, 2018

The Hornets committed 20 turnovers in the loss. Dwight Howard (23 points, 17 rebounds) had another big game while Malik Monk, who hasn’t gotten consistent playing time in his rookie season, scored 21 points on 8-of-15 shooting. Kemba Walker struggled from the field, posting just nine points and four assists.

Rockets 120 (63-15), Wizards 104 (42-36)

Another ho-hum 71-point first half for the Rockets made for a pretty boring final 24 minutes as Houston rolled past the Wizards. James Harden (38 points, 10 rebounds, 9 assists) dominated all game and Washington — like most teams — had no answer for him. There was some injury concern for the Rockets, though, with Ryan Anderson suffering a left ankle sprain after playing just five minutes. He didn’t return.

Step-back pic.twitter.com/cfRriklGwn

— Houston Rockets (@HoustonRockets) April 4, 2018

The Wizards are still reintegrating John Wall back into the flow of things and he had an off-night, shooting 3-of-10 from the field along with eight turnovers. Bradley Beal (27 points) was locked in.

Bucks 106 (42-36), Celtics 102 (53-24)

The shorthanded Celtics had to lose at some point. Boston’s six-game winning streak, all without Kyrie Irving, was snapped by a Bucks team that needs one more win (or one more Pistons loss) to clinch the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. Giannis Antetokounmpo (29 points, 11 rebounds) and Khris Middleton (20 points, 8 rebounds, 9 assists) were great, and Giannis may have saved the game with an insane chasedown block on Jaylen Brown with less than a minute to go.

No layup is safe when Giannis is on the court (via @Bucks) pic.twitter.com/EjtHYOn9D4

— SLAM Magazine (@SLAMonline) April 4, 2018

Brown and Jayson Tatum (combined for 44 points) provided much of Boston’s scoring on a night when the bench didn’t do much.

Warriors 111 (57-21), Thunder 107 (45-34)

The latest KD–Russell Westbrook battle in Oklahoma City lived up to the hype, even with Steph Curry on the sidelines. Durant dropped 34 points (albeit on 9-of-25 shooting) and grabbed 10 boards in the Golden State win while Westbrook had a ridiculous 44 points and 16 rebounds.

Think KD’s motivated tonight? (via @NBA) pic.twitter.com/8Sj46LkGQK

— SLAM Magazine (@SLAMonline) April 4, 2018

For the most part, though, the OKC starting five outplayed that of the Warriors. The difference in this game was when KD and Russ weren’t on the floor. Golden State got 38 points from its bench while OKC got just 14. The trio of David West, Damian Jones and JaVale McGee combined to go a perfect 12-for-12 from the field.

Paul George (5-of-19) and Carmelo Anthony (4-of-16) weren’t very efficient, with Melo missing all nine of his three-point attempts. The Thunder are far from guaranteed to make the postseason and are just 1.5 games up on idle No. 9 Denver. A first round matchup with Golden State is also very possible.

Mavericks 115 (24-54), Trail Blazers 109 (48-30)

Portland has already clinched a playoff spot, but losing to lottery-bound Dallas delayed the Blazers’ quest for homecourt advantage in the postseason’s opening round. Every Mavs starter reached double figures — led by Dennis Smith Jr.‘s 18 points — with Yogi Ferrell adding 15 as a reserve.

!!! pic.twitter.com/Txy7DAhjBH

— Dallas Mavericks (@dallasmavs) April 4, 2018

The Blazers couldn’t buy a three, going 10-for-40 beyond the arc. Damian Lillard (29 points) was the game’s high-scorer but was just 6-of-20 from the field. He did make all 15 of his free throw attempts. Jusuf Nurkic (15 points, 13 rebounds) was effective but limited to 27 minutes, partially due to foul trouble.

Nuggets 107 (43-35), Pacers 104 (46-32)

For the third consecutive game, the Nuggets played a postseason-bound team tough and won a one-possession decision that helped them keep pace in the West. Following wins over the Thunder and Bucks, Denver had a chance to gain some ground against a red-hot Pacers team and did just that. Nikola Jokic (30 points, 6 rebounds, 7 assists, 4 steals) filled up the stat-sheet in the W alongside Will Barton (26 points, 10 rebounds) as Gary Harris continued to sit with due to a knee injury.

WILL ALWAYS SHOOT FROM DISTANCE pic.twitter.com/sTsUaJkpwy

— Denver Nuggets (@nuggets) April 4, 2018

Victor Oladipo (25 points, 6 rebounds, 7 assists, 4 steals) played well as Indiana had a solid offensive game, but lost the rebounding battle by 14 and couldn’t stop Jokic at all. When he’s making threes and getting his teammates involved, there’s not much any team can do against him.

Jazz 117 (45-33), Lakers 110 (33-44)

Without Lonzo Ball, Brandon Ingram and Isaiah Thomas, the Lakers needed other guys to step up if they were going to have a chance to take down the Jazz. Julius Randle (12 points, 12 rebounds, 9 assists), Kyle Kuzma (26 points) and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (28 points) did just that but it still wasn’t enough as the backcourt combo of Ricky Rubio and Donovan Mitchell (57 combined points on 37 shots) spearheaded a big scoring night for Utah.

| Donovan with the easy 26-point night

He shot 50% from distance (4-8) and had his 44th game with 20 points or more.#DonROY #TakeNote pic.twitter.com/mng9ppqtLh

— Utah Jazz (@utahjazz) April 4, 2018

The Jazz, which leapfrogged the Thunder to tie with the Spurs for the No. 4 spot in the West, scored 65 first half points en route to a third-straight win. Rudy Gobert (12 points, 16 rebounds) even helped in facilitating with five assists, his second-highest total of the season. Joe Ingles knocked down 3 threes, extending his streak with at least one made triple to 35 games. That’s a Jazz record.

Suns 97 (20-59), Kings 94 (25-54)

No player from this year’s rookie class has arguably made a bigger in-season improvement than Josh Jackson (28 points, 6 rebounds), who couldn’t find his shot for the first few months of the season but has turned into a reliable scorer for the Suns as of late. His big game helped the Suns snap a franchise-worst 15-game losing streak that lasted the entire month of March. Alex Len helped with a 17-point, 15-rebound double-double off the bench.

JJ FOR TRE! pic.twitter.com/jbGQ13R0PU

— Phoenix Suns (@Suns) April 4, 2018

Bogdan Bogdanovic (22 points) and Justin Jackson (19 points, 8 rebounds) had good performances in the loss. With the Mavs’ win over Portland, the Kings moved to a half-game “behind” Dallas for the 5th in the reverse standings. Phoenix has a two-game “lead” over Memphis for the worst record in the NBA.

Clippers 113 (42-36), Spurs 110 (45-33)

Maybe against the Spurs of old — with Kawhi Leonard — a 41-point fourth quarter and late double-digit comeback would have been unthinkable, but this Spurs team isn’t the Spurs of old anymore. Needing a win to move within 1.5 games of a playoff spot, the Clippers fought back to stun San Antonio thanks to 31 points from Tobias Harris and a go-ahead three from Austin Rivers with 29 seconds left.

.@AustinRivers25 – CLUTCH! pic.twitter.com/GToZFm04ix

— NBA on TNT (@NBAonTNT) April 4, 2018

Lou Williams (22 points), as usual, provided a massive spark to draw the game to a tie midway through the final quarter just minutes after the Spurs led by 11. But San Antonio went back up, and held a 103-96 advantage with three minutes to play. LA scored the next seven points to tie it up at 103 and took the lead for good on Rivers’ three from the wing.

LaMarcus Aldridge (35 points, 9 rebounds) had his way all night in the loss but he and Patty Mills (17 points) didn’t get much help, especially in the fourth quarter.

The post Post Up: KD And The Warriors Get The Last Laugh in Oklahoma City appeared first on SLAM.

A 15-point advantage in the third quarter gave the Pistons their third win in a row as Andre Drummond recorded the fourth-ever 24-point, 23-rebound and four-assist game. Anthony Tolliver (14), Reggie Jackson (13) and Reggie Bullock also scored in double-digits.

Bradley Beal led the Wizards with 15 points.

Bulls 92 (24-51), Heat 103 (41-35)

Josh Richardson scored 22 as the Heat downed a shorthanded Bulls team without Lauri Markkanen (DNP – Tank) to hold onto the seventh spot in the Eastern Conference standings. Goran Dragic added 17.

All five Chicago starters (Noah Vonleh, David Nwaba, Roblin Lopez, Cameron Payne, Justin Holiday) and sixth man Bobby Portis scored in double-digits in the effort.

EVEN THE BASELINE CAMERA MAN BIT ON THAT FAKE (via @DefPenHoops) pic.twitter.com/EwOcBHTs32

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) March 30, 2018

THAT BAM BOY GOT BOUNCE (via @miamiheat) https://t.co/8l24whvQFO

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) March 30, 2018

Thunder 99 (44-32), Spurs 103 (44-32)

At one point it seemed like the Spurs’ season was on the brink of collapse; however, LaMarcus Aldridge’s clutch jam in the final minute of the fourth quarter secured San Antonio’s seventh win out of its last nine and moved the Spurs to fourth in the Western Conference.

Aldridge finished the night with 25 points, 11 rebounds and two blocks while Patty Mills chipped in 14.

Paul George led the Thunder with 26 points, six assists and four steals.

Pacers 106 (45-31), Kings 103 (24-52)

Victor Oladipo and Bojan Bogdanovic combined for 49 points and scored all seven of Indiana’s points in the final 30 seconds of regulation.

Buddy Hield scored 20 off the pine for the Kings.

Bucks 116 (40-15), Warriors 107 (54-21)

Giannis Antetokounmpo’s 32 points spoiled Kevin Durant’s return to the Warriors’ lineup as the Bucks led by 18 after three periods of play. Khris Middleton chipped in 23 and Eric Bledsoe added another 20.

Quinn Cook led the Warriors with 30 points while Durant scored 10 in 17 minutes.

Giannis just pushed KD aside like a rag doll (via @NBAonTNT) pic.twitter.com/H2ggArpb5e

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) March 30, 2018

‘BARI BUCKETS (via @NBAonTNT) pic.twitter.com/g7KLppTugC

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) March 30, 2018

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James Harden and Jaylen Brown made waves at All-Star when the “Vision” adidas Harden Vol. 2 and a mismatched pair of adidas T-Mac 3s respectively made their way to the hardwood. And Nick Young showed out after ASW by playing in the adidas Yeezy 500 at Madison Square Garden.

Jimmy Butler stole the show this month, though. Besides playing in the “BHM” Air Jordan III and the “Quai 54” Air Jordan V, Butler made a neckbreaking return to Chicago. The former Bull visited his old team and played in the “Eminem” Air Jordan IV, an extremely rare and pricy silhouette. The friends-and-family colorway has sold for up to $20,000. Butler went for 38 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists in the “Eminem” joints.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BfBWqfoHLLZ/?hl=en&taken-by=slamkicks

Lance Stephenson and Montrezl Harrell brought fire and PJ Tucker continued to flex with multiple rare pairs.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BfpZBi3H4dO/?hl=en&taken-by=slamkicks

Under Armour athletes like Dennis Smith Jr and Patty Mills wore special-edition Black History Month colorways. And Karl-Anthony Towns continued to hoop in custom Nike Hyperdunk colorways, including a “DragonBall Z” pair.

And finally, Dwyane Wade used his WoW6s to pay tribute to Parkland shooting victim Joaquin Oliver, who was buried in Wade’s jersey.

Dwyane Wade's tribute to Parkland shooting victim Joaquin Oliver. It's #BiggerThanBasketball. pic.twitter.com/egOskdqdLP

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) February 28, 2018

Scroll down below to see the best NBA kicks from February.

The post Best NBA Kicks of February 2018 appeared first on SLAM.

According to ESPN’S Dave McMenamin, the fan will be banned from Quicken Loans Arena for at least one year.

The Cavs have identified the person who heckled Patty Mills, according to a Cavs spokesman. He has been banned from Quicken Loans Arena indefinitely, with a review to come after a period of one year.

— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) February 27, 2018

Mills was at the free-throw line during San Antonio’s 110-94 win over the Cavs on Sunday, when the fan repeatedly shouted, “Hey Jamaica called, they want their bobsledder back!”

@KingJames am I the only one who heard this guy in the crowd yell “hey Jamaican dog they want their bobsledder back! Hey @Patty_Mills Jamaica just called, they want their bobsledder back!” #SundayFunday ??? @NBA pic.twitter.com/RvHdu88Gzd

— Zandra Ashley (@thats_Z_Truth) February 25, 2018

RELATED:
Cavs Fan Yells Racial Slurs at Patty Mills

The post Cavaliers Ban Fan Who Shouted Racial Slur at Patty Mills appeared first on SLAM.

The ugly incident, during which a man in the crowd at Cleveland’s Quicken Loans Arena shouted insults at Mills inferring he was Jamaican, took place late in the fourth quarter of San Antonio’s 110-94 win.

@KingJames am I the only one who heard this guy in the crowd yell “hey Jamaican dog they want their bobsledder back! Hey @Patty_Mills Jamaica just called, they want their bobsledder back!” #SundayFunday ??? @NBA pic.twitter.com/RvHdu88Gzd

— Zandra Ashley (@thats_Z_Truth) February 25, 2018

The Spurs’ Australian point guard tweeted that he hopes “this confused, hateful fan” can find enlightenment.

Thanks @thats_Z_Truth. I am a proud Islander. Like my Jamaican Brothers, me & my family in the islands of the Torres Strait have experienced racial slurs for decades. Hope your efforts will enlighten this confused, hateful fan. #BlackHistoryMonth https://t.co/yH3nKlGv4A

— Patrick Mills (@Patty_Mills) February 26, 2018

Per Fox Sports Australia:

A fan tweeted a video of the incident to Mills — who’s part Aboriginal, and part Torres Strait Islander — who responded with hope, before shining a light on Black History Month.

It was otherwise a good night for Mills, who helped his team to a 110-94 win, dropping 11 points and five assists.

Mills is one of Australia’s highest profile indigenous athletes, and has been a prominent purveyor of indigenous culture, both in Australia and abroad.

The post Cavs Fan Yells Racial Slurs at Patty Mills appeared first on SLAM.

Parker was benched Sunday in favor of second-year point guard Dejounte Murray.

The #Spurs passing of the torch from Tony Parker to Dejounte Murray happened without fanfare, just a simple conversation between the future Hall of Famer and Pop before Sunday's game … https://t.co/7FPkRF4ZtK

— Tom Orsborn (@tom_orsborn) January 22, 2018

The future Hall of Famer says he will graciously pass the torch along.

Per The Express-News:

“I think it’s time,” Popovich said.

 

“No problem,” Parker replied.

 

And with that simple exchange, the Spurs unceremoniously made a change at point guard, benching their future Hall of Famer in favor of second-year pro Dejounte Murray.

 

“Just like Manu (Ginobili), just like Pau (Gasol), you know that day is going to come,” Parker said after the Spurs’ 94-86 loss to the Indiana Pacers. “If Pop sees something that is good for the team, I will try to do my best…I will support Pop’s decision, and I will try to help DJ as best as I can and try to be the best I can in that second unit with Manu and Patty (Mills).”

The post Tony Parker Loses Starting Point Guard Role appeared first on SLAM.

True to his form, Donovan Mitchell put on a show to lead the Jazz over the Kings. A sampling:

DONOVAN MITCHELL WITH THE WINDMILL! (via @utahjazz) pic.twitter.com/orXMmd3jrK

— SLAM Magazine (@SLAMonline) January 18, 2018

Are we looking at the ROY??? (via @nba) pic.twitter.com/F63u1FizM0

— SLAM Magazine (@SLAMonline) January 18, 2018

.@spidadmitchell has his 5th 30+ point game of his (rookie) NBA career

*fans self* pic.twitter.com/6yaTkK2psa

— Utah Jazz (@utahjazz) January 18, 2018

Mitchell finished with a game-high 34 points on 14-19 shooting. Willie Cauley-Stein countered with 26 points and 10 boards for the Kings.

Hornets 133 (18-25), Wizards 109 (25-20)

The Hornets put on their best first-half performance in franchise history to run away from the Wizards Wednesday night. Charlotte made its first 10 shots and scored an all-time best 77 points in the first half. In total, seven Hornets scored in double figures, led by Michael Kidd-Gilchrist (21 points). Dwight Howard had a double-double with 18 points and 15 boards, while Kemba Walker had 19 points and seven assists. Bradley Beal had 26 to lead the Wizards.

Kemba serves it up to Dwight for the dunk!!! #WASatCHA #BuzzCity pic.twitter.com/ssh3tfUdIX

— Charlotte Hornets (@hornets) January 18, 2018

Spurs 100 (30-16), Nets 95 (16-29)

The Spurs held off a late Nets surge behind 34 points from LaMarcus Aldridge and 25 from Patty Mills, who did his work on a career-high seven made threes. San Antonio led by 15 early in the fourth quarter, but a flurry of threes from Joe Harris (18 points) and Allen Crabbe (20 points) cut into the deficit. The Nets eventually climbed to within three with 2:16 left, but an Aldridge and-one restored order.

BALA!

Patty knocks down back-to-back triples to give us the lead! pic.twitter.com/0yveVr4y9K

— San Antonio Spurs (@spurs) January 18, 2018

Hawks 94 (13-31), Pelicans 93 (23-21)

Kent Bazemore‘s jumper with two seconds left gave the Hawks a thrilling win in Atlanta. That shot came after DeMarcus Cousins split a pair or free throws that broke a tie and for a moment looked like it might give the Pelicans the win. Bazemore had 20 to lead the Hawks, while Jrue Holiday led New Orleans with 22. The loss snaps New Orleans’ three-game win streak, but it was the team’s sixth consecutive game decided by six points or fewer.

Kent you are our hero! pic.twitter.com/Q1weaohVBG

— Atlanta Hawks (@ATLHawks) January 18, 2018

Grizzlies 105 (15-28), Knicks 99 (20-25)

The Knicks made a late comeback, pulling to within three with 47 seconds left, but timely free throws from Tyreke Evans secured a win for Memphis. The Grizzlies, playing without Marc Gasol, got 23 points from Evans and 18 from JaMychal Green, including the loudest basket of the night:

Might want to find JaMychal Green (via @memgrizz) pic.twitter.com/0J1gwMR9dA

— SLAM Magazine (@SLAMonline) January 18, 2018

Kristaps Porzingis had 21 and Enes Kanter had 20 to lead the Knicks, who remain in free-fall.

Raptors 96 (30-13), Pistons 91 (22-21)

It’s been almost a year since Toronto lost back-to-back home games, and that streak didn’t stop on Wednesday. CJ Miles had 21 points on five threes and Jonas Valanciunas had 17  points and 16 rebounds to lead the Raptors through a game in which they committed 20 turnovers. Andre Drummond had 25-and-17 for the Pistons. Detroit has now lost three straight.

Block pass dunk (via @nba) pic.twitter.com/bd4agVasf5

— SLAM Magazine (@SLAMonline) January 18, 2018

Warriors 119 (37-9), Bulls 112 (17-28)

The Warriors used a 32-12 third quarter to pull away from the Bulls on the road and notch their ninth win in 10 games. Klay Thompson had 38 and Steph Curry had 30 more to lead the way, while Nikola Mirotic had 24 for the Bulls. Thompson and Curry also combined to shoot 13-24 from three.

Lauri sends it back in Steph’s face. Literally. (via @chicagobulls) pic.twitter.com/2P2QQOO3rK

— SLAM Magazine (@SLAMonline) January 18, 2018

Heat 106 (26-18), Bucks 101 (23-21)

Hassan Whiteside‘s dunk with 3:38 left put the Heat up for good in a game that was tight throughout. He led all scorers with 27 points, doing his damage on 10-12 shooting to go with 13 rebounds and six blocks. Khris Middleton had 25 and Giannis Antetokounmpo had 22 to lead the Bucks. The Heat have now won eight out of nine overall and eight out of 10 on the road.

Watch Whiteside Fly!

Hassan leading Miami with 25 points and 11 rebounds as we approach the end of the 3rd quarter. #MIAvsMIL pic.twitter.com/LIp9DUbyHN

— Miami HEAT (@MiamiHEAT) January 18, 2018

Thunder 114 (25-20), Lakers 90 (15-29)

Carmelo Anthony had 27 points and Steven Adams had 21-and-10 to lead the Thunder over the Lakers. Kyle Kuzma put it best after the game: “They just big-boyed us,” he said. “Steven Adams, we couldn’t stop him from getting rebounds today. He was the head of the snake in that department.” In fact, the Thunder out-rebounded the Lakers 54-30. Julius Randle led the Lakers with 16 points.

Felton gives. Huestis goes. Thunder UP by 25 in 4th. pic.twitter.com/JolEa6a0Qw

— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) January 18, 2018

Clippers 109 (23-21), Nuggets 104 (23-22)

The Clippers came dangerously close to letting a lead slip away in the final seconds, but a strong defensive stand made the difference. L.A. led by six with 42 seconds left, but a few missed free throws on its end a few made free throws for the Nuggets gave Denver a shot to win. But the Nuggets never got a clean look on its final real possession. Blake Griffin had 20 points and 12 rebounds for the Clippers, and Gary Harris had 19 points for Denver.

Thought that hoop was about to come down (via @nuggets) pic.twitter.com/OGYouxPCVb

— SLAM Magazine (@SLAMonline) January 18, 2018

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The Celtics spoiled Isaiah Thomas’s return to Boston thanks to 20 points from Terry Rozier and 15 each from Jayson Tatum and Marcus Smart. Thomas played his first game of the season for Cleveland on Tuesday night and rested on Wednesday as he watched his current team battle his former team. LeBron James had 19 to lead Cleveland, but the Cavs shot just 35 percent for the game.

Easy to forget he’s a rookie. (via @celtics) pic.twitter.com/dRpgyT5FsN

— SLAM Magazine (@SLAMonline) January 4, 2018

Wizards 121 (22-16), Knicks 103 (18-20)

Bradley Beal scored 27 points and John Wall had 25 as the Wizards handed the Knicks their sixth loss in seven games. The Wizards led by one at halftime before a 26-14 third quarter opened things up. Michael Beasley scored 16 of his 20 points in the second half, but the Knicks never drew closer than 15 points in the final quarter. Marcin Gortat also had 21 for Washington on 9-10 shooting.

HELLO. @JohnWall #NBAVote #WizKnicks pic.twitter.com/2We2HThIDK

— Washington Wizards (@WashWizards) January 4, 2018

Rockets 116 (27-9), Magic 98 (12-27)

Gerald Green scored 27 points to help the James Harden-less Rockets to their second straight win. Green hit his first five three-point attempts and finished the game 7-10 from deep in a game that was never really close. The Magic scored just 12 points in the first quarter and were led by Aaron Gordon, who had 16.

7-0 run for the squad #Rockets lead 80-52. #RunAsOne pic.twitter.com/5nPfAUabRf

— Houston Rockets (@HoustonRockets) January 4, 2018

76ers 112 (18-19), Spurs 106 (26-13)

The 76ers initially ruled Joel Embiid out of this one, but Embiid played through it and Philly was glad he did. He scored 21 to go with 11 rebounds while Ben Simmons had 26 more in the win. Patty Mills led the Spurs with 26 points.

LOOK OUT BELOW#NBAVOTE @JOELEMBIID pic.twitter.com/TyLqnTcap0

— Philadelphia 76ers (@sixers) January 4, 2018

Nets 98 (15-23), Timberwolves 97 (24-15)

Spencer Dinwiddie‘s basket with 10 seconds to go gave the Nets a thrilling win in Brooklyn. Dinwiddie finished with 26 points to go with nine assists as the Nets won their second straight. Joe Harris also had 17 off the bench. Jimmy Butler led all scorers with 30 points.

OK JARRETT pic.twitter.com/G7XNMH1pLm

— Brooklyn Nets (@BrooklynNets) January 4, 2018

Heat 111 (20-17), Pistons 104 (20-16)

The Heat didn’t trail in the fourth quarter, despite going into the final frame tied, thanks to a few key buckets from Kelly Olynyk. Olynyk finished with game highs in points (25) and rebounds (13) to help get the Heat to three games over .500 for the first time since April 2016. Tobias Harris had 19 to lead the Pistons.

Did the net even move? pic.twitter.com/MFqntRJU0M

— Miami HEAT (@MiamiHEAT) January 4, 2018

Raptors 124 (26-10), Bulls 115 (13-25)

Two days after his career-high 52-point performance, DeMar DeRozan scored 35 more to lead the Raptors over the Bulls. Toronto trailed by 10 after the first quarter as DeRozan got off to a slow start, but his 18-point third-quarter proved to be the difference. Justin Holiday shot 7-10 and scored 26 points for the Bulls.

Double team? No problem. #RTZ pic.twitter.com/0wr2lnbAuU

— Toronto Raptors (@Raptors) January 4, 2018

Bucks 122 (20-16), Pacers 101 (19-19)

Giannis Antetokounmpo set the tone early, scoring 21 of his game-high 31 points in the first half to help Milwaukee build a 10-point lead at the break. The Bucks shot 59 percent for the game en route to their third win in four tries. Domantas Sabonis led the Pacers with 24 on 10-13 shooting. Indiana was playing without Victor Oladipo, who missed his fourth-straight game with a knee injury.

Giannis first half summary: (via @bucks) pic.twitter.com/fm18ABdX3Q

— SLAM Magazine (@SLAMonline) January 4, 2018

Warriors 125 (30-8), Mavericks 122 (13-26)

Steph Curry‘s three with three seconds to go lifted the Warriors to a thrilling win on the road. It came seconds after a Harrison Barnes layup tied it, completing a late comeback for Dallas. Curry finished with 32 points, while Kevin Durant and Klay Thompson had 25 each. Wesley Matthews had 22 and Dwight Powell had 21 for Dallas.

Steph. Curry. Was there any doubt???? (via @nba) pic.twitter.com/sxyWi6tL4U

— SLAM Magazine (@SLAMonline) January 4, 2018

Nuggets 134 (20-17), Suns 111 (15-25)

Gary Harris‘s 36 points on 14-17 shooting was more than enough for a Nuggets team that shot 62 percent and held Phoenix to just 42 percent. In total, seven Denver players scored in double figures, including Trey Lyles, who had 16 points and 11 rebounds off the bench. Devin Booker had 17 to lead the Suns.

Tell your friends:

We’re a fun basketball team. pic.twitter.com/m68NwoSshT

— Denver Nuggets (@nuggets) January 4, 2018

Pelicans 108 (19-18), Jazz 98 (16-22)

Jrue Holiday scored 18 points in the first half and Anthony Davis finished with 29-and-15 to lead the Pelicans over Donovan Mitchell and the Jazz. Mitchell had 24 points but it was not enough to overcome 14 made threes from New Orleans. DeMarcus Cousins chipped in a double-double for the Pelicans (19 points, 11 rebounds) while Joe Johnson had 20 for Utah.

Closing it out. @boogiecousins | #NBAVote pic.twitter.com/FunjDRB7xx

— New Orleans Pelicans (@PelicansNBA) January 4, 2018

Thunder 133 (20-17), Lakers 96 (11-25)

A 37-18 second quarter was all Oklahoma City needed to get going and run away with the win in the evening’s final contest. Four Thunder players scored 20-or-more points, led by Paul George and Terrance Ferguson, who had 24 each. As a team, OKC shot 60 percent from the field and went 14-30 from three. Kyle Kuzma had 18 to lead the Lakers, who also committed 17 turnovers.

PG hits the jumper, gives dad a hug (via @nba) pic.twitter.com/Yx0QQJGngM

— SLAM Magazine (@SLAMonline) January 4, 2018

The post Post Up: All Green appeared first on SLAM.

DeMar DeRozan had 27 points and the Raptors made 14 threes, helping them hold off James Harden and the Rockets for a big win on the road. Toronto has now won three of its last four games, scoring at least 119 points in each of those victories.

Harden had 38 points, 11 assists, and made all 19 of his free throws to set a single-game franchise record. Harden also shot just 8-25 from the field and committed nine turnovers.

The Beard’s efforts weren’t enough to counter a Toronto team that set a record of its own with 45 points in the second quarter — the most in single quarter in team history. The Raptors led 76-64 at the half.

Kyle Lowry had 19 points and 19 assists, while rookie OG Anunoby had 16 more. It all added up to…this:

Ball game. Raps win! #WeTheNorth pic.twitter.com/21hyqnbuPF

— Toronto Raptors (@Raptors) November 15, 2017

Celtics 109 (13-2), Nets 102 (5-9) 

We’re coming up on a month since the last time the Celtics lost a game. Boston picked up its 13th in a row on Tuesday behind 25 points from the now-masked Kyrie Irving.

As they have done for much of the season, the Nets made their opponents work for it. An 8-0 run midway through the fourth quarter brought Brooklyn within four and kept the pressure on, forcing the Celtics to make free throws down the stretch.

Marcus Morris had a season-high 21 points for the Celtics and 11 came in the fourth quarter.

Joe Harris played 20 minutes and led the Nets with 19 points on 7-14 shooting and was 5-11 from three.

While the Celtics have seemed unstoppable of late, the difficulty level will go up a bit on Thursday when they host the defending champs for an 8 p.m. ET tip.

Jaylen with the windmill! (via @celtics) pic.twitter.com/Eybjfrp0U1

— SLAM Magazine (@SLAMonline) November 15, 2017

Spurs 97 (9-5), Mavericks 91 (2-13)

The Mavericks’ woeful start to the season continued as they hung tough with the Spurs but weren’t quite able to get over the hump in the closing minutes.

Dennis Smith Jr. continued to be the bright spot for Dallas. He went 10-23 from the field (5-11 from three) for a team-high 27 points.

On the other end, LaMarcus Aldridge had 32 points and Patty Mills had 19 more. The Spurs also struggled from distance (6-26), but found just enough elsewhere to survive.

The rules of gravity no longer apply (via @dallasmavs) pic.twitter.com/dv86Bb7ES6

— SLAM Magazine (@SLAMonline) November 15, 2017

The post Post Up: Look North appeared first on SLAM.

Undoubtedly influenced by the Warriors’ dominance last season, teams have been making big acquisitions to counter the reigning champions.

As usual, we’ve broken down the NBA free agent signings into two categories: “On The Move” and “Staying Put.”

Below is a comprehensive look at the agreements made since the free-agency period began at midnight on July 1. Everything is a verbal agreement until the moratorium period ends on July 7.

Let us know in the comments who you think has had the best and worst offseason so far!

ON THE MOVE

Gordon Hayward: 4-year, $128 million deal with Celtics

Paul Millsap: 3-year, $90 million deal with Nuggets

Jeff Teague: 3-year, $57 million deal with Wolves

George Hill: 3-year, $57 million deal with Kings

JJ Redick: 1-year, $23 million deal with Sixers

Taj Gibson: 2-year, $28 million deal with Timberwolves

Danilo Gallinari: 3-year, $65 million deal with Clippers

Rudy Gay: 2-year, $17 million deal with Spurs

Jonathon Simmons: 3-year, $20 million deal with Magic

PJ Tucker: 4-year, $32 million deal with Rockets

Nick Young: 1-year, $5.2 million deal with Warriors

Omri Casspi: 1-year deal with Warriors

Langston Galloway: 3-year, $21 million deal with Pistons

Zach Randolph: 2-year, $24 million deal with Kings

Vince Carter: 1-year, $8 million deal with Kings

Patrick Patterson: 3-year, $16.7 million deal with Thunder

Kelly Olynyk: 4-year, $50-plus million deal with Heat

Darren Collison: 2-year, $20 million deal with Pacers

Ben McLemore: 2-year, $10.7 million deal with Grizzlies

Justin Holiday: 2-year, $9 million deal with Bulls

Tyreke Evans: 1-year, $3.3 million deal with Grizzlies

Jodie Meeks: 2-year, $7 million deal with Wizards

Bojan Bogdanovic: 2-year, $21 million deal with Pacers

Amir Johnson: 1-year, $11 million deal with Sixers

Michael Carter-Williams: 1-year, $2.7 million deal with Hornets

Jose Calderon: 1-year, $2.3 million deal with Cavaliers

Arron Afflalo: 1-year, $2.3 million deal with Magic

Zhou Qi: Multiyear deal with Rockets

Mike Scott: Veteran’s minimum deal with Wizards

Jamal Crawford: two-year, $8.9 million deal with Timberwolves

Kentavious Caldwell-Pope: 1-year, $18 million deal with Lakers

Dewayne Dedmon: 2-year, $14 million deal with Hawks

Ramon Sessions: 1-year, $2.3 million deal with Knicks

Terrence Jones: 1-year, $2 million deal in China

Brandon Jennings: 1-year, $1.5 million deal in China

Ian Clark: 1-year, $1.6 million deal with Pelicans

Michael Beasley: 1-year deal with Knicks

STAYING PUT

Stephen Curry: 5-year, $201 million deal with Warriors

Kevin Durant: 2-year, $53 million deal with Warriors

Blake Griffin: 5-year, $173 million deal with Clippers

Jrue Holiday: 5-year, $126 million deal with Pelicans

Kyle Lowry: 3-year, $100 million deal with Raptors

Serge Ibaka: 3-year, $65 million deal with Raptors

Dion Waiters: 4-year, $52 million deal with Heat

Andre Iguodala: 3-year, $48 million deal with Warriors

James Johnson: 4-year, $60 million deal with Heat

Joe Ingles: 4-year, $52 million deal with Jazz