NBA Basketball News, Scores, Standings, Rumors, Fantasy Games – Page 113

One day after acquiring superstar Jaylen Brown in a blockbuster trade with Boston, Philadelphia has agreed to terms with guard Anfernee Simons on a two-year pact, ESPN’s Shams Charania reported Thursday.

The Sixers have agreed to a deal with Anfernee Simons, who suited up for the Celtics last season. Getty Images

The deal is worth $12.3 million, with the second year containing a player option, per Charania.

Simons, 27, reportedly fielded interest from the Mavericks, Warriors and Heat before agreeing to terms with the Sixers, according to Marc Stein.

The 6-foot-3 guard boosts Philadelphia’s scoring, particularly off the bench, coming off a 2025-26 campaign in which he ranked sixth in the NBA with 130 triples as a reserve.

Simons began last season with the Celtics, averaging 14.2 points and shooting nearly 40 percent from beyond the arc before he was dealt to the Bulls at the trade deadline.

He immediately entered Chicago’s starting lineup, but he appeared in just six games before sustaining a season-ending left ulnar styloid fracture in his left wrist.

The eight-year NBA veteran finished last season averaging 14.3 points, and over the past five campaigns, he’s averaged 18.8 points between the Trail Blazers, Celtics and Bulls.

After being swept by the Knicks in the Eastern Conference semifinals, Philadelphia has been busy at the onset of free agency.

Simons split last season between the Celtics and Bulls. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

In addition to trading Paul George as part of the Brown trade, the Sixers have agreed to deals with sharpshooter Dean Wade and ex-Knicks center Ariel Hukporti.

The Athletic reported on Wednesday that the Sixers have also expressed interest in the legendary LeBron James, who is departing the Lakers after eight seasons.

“I’m told the Sixers are also trying to make a pitch to LeBron James along with the Warriors, Cavaliers and the Heat,” Charania said on ESPN after breaking the Simons signing.

“Include the Sixers and maybe one or two other teams in due time in that mix. But the Sixers get Anfernee Simons and they’re obviously trying to continue to add to this team.”

Between the Sixers’ active offseason and Giannis Antetokounmpo joining the Heat and the Raptors reuniting with Kawhi Leonard, it’s been an active summer.

Or, as Knicks swingman Josh Hart put it: “This East offseason is crazy.”

July 2, 2026

So much for Lakers’ big offseason … LA fans left with sinking feeling

The anticipation had been building.

The flame was lit when the Lakers acquired Luka Doncic in February 2025, a generational player who could put the team atop the NBA again.

The Lakers’ Luka Doncic (right) is in his prime and has not said he wants to remain with his current franchise forever. AP

It was fanned when Mark Walter’s ownership group took over the franchise six months later, the brain trust that helped transform the Dodgers into three-time World Series champions over the last six years.

And gasoline was poured on it when LeBron James announced his eight-season tenure with the Lakers had come to an end.

All eyes were on Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka. What grand plan did he have up his sleeve as the chimes officially rang on “Summer of 2026,” the vaunted period when the Lakers were to be transformed into champions once again?

A flurry of moves happened.

The result?

Instead of gasps, there were groans.

Instead of building a team that could contend against the Spurs or Thunder, he assembled one that’s worse than last season’s squad.

Pelinka was clearly trying to build a team in the likeness of the 2023-2024 Mavericks, who reached the Finals with Doncic surrounded by ball handlers (Kyrie Irving), rim-running lob threats (Dereck Lively II and Daniel Gafford) and 3-and-D wings (P.J. Washington and Derrick Jones Jr.).

Center Walker Kessler is a solid player, but did the Lakers mortgage their future to get him? Getty Images

But this is the janky reboot.

It’s the sequel that never should’ve been made.

It’s the new season that lost its magic.

The Lakers overpaid for Walker Kessler, acquiring him on a four-year, $130 million contract with a player option in the fourth season. As part of the sign-and-trade with the Jazz, they gave up unprotected first-round picks in 2031 and 2033, plus first-round pick swaps in 2028 and 2030.

Kessler is the defensive-minded, rim-protecting center they wanted. But was he worth mortgaging their future? The Lakers no longer have any tradable first-round picks over the next seven years.

The next seven years.

They also acquired Sandro Mamukelashvili, a good offensive floor spacer and playmaker, Quentin Grimes, a two-way talent, and Collin Sexton, an athletic scorer.

But let’s take a moment to look at who they lost in free agency.

LeBron James, you know, arguably the greatest player of all time, who even at age 41 was good enough to single-handedly lead the Lakers past the Rockets in the first round of the 2026 playoffs.

The Lakers and Austin Reaves decided to stick together, but did the franchise tie up too much of its money on a few players? USA TODAY Sports via Reuters Con

Marcus Smart, their most dogged defender.

And Luke Kennard, the best 3-point shooter in the league.

The current Lakers roster lacks defense, aside from Kessler. It lacks a wing stopper. It lacks depth.

The Lakers entered free agency with the most cap space of any team at around $50 million. But they didn’t come close to building a contender. Their current squad wouldn’t even be able to get past last year’s team in a playoff series. And the Lakers squandered all of their draft capital.

Download The California Post App, follow us on social, and subscribe to our newsletters

California Post News: Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X, YouTube, WhatsApp, LinkedIn
California Post SportsFacebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, X
California Post Opinion
California Post Newsletters: Sign up here!
California Post App: Download here!
Home delivery: Sign up here!Page Six Hollywood: Sign up here!

Instead of having a splashy offseason, the Lakers are sinking.

Sure, they got younger. Austin Reaves is now the oldest player on their roster at age 28. But they also got less talented. They’ve committed $480 million among Doncic, Reaves and Kessler.

Free agency isn’t over. The Lakers reportedly have interest in Jonathan Kuminga, whose $24.3 million team option was recently declined by the Hawks. They better figure something out to shore up their holes.

Lakers GM Rob Pelinka was determined to assemble a splashy roster this summer, but the moves he made weren’t impressive. Getty Images

This much is for sure: The moves Pelinka made weren’t impressive.

The Lakers aren’t going to be able to compete in the very crowded Western Conference. They’ve hamstrung themselves with huge contracts. They have no draft assets. Their defense is porous.

Make no mistake about it, Doncic has been closely watching.

He’s in his prime. He’s not going to allow the Lakers to squander it. His patience is going to quickly wear thin if Los Angeles isn’t able to compete.

While Doncic made it clear he wanted to spend his entire career with the Mavericks, he has given no such assurances to the Lakers.

This summer was supposed to be Pelinka’s celebration. His coming-out party. His chance to prove to Walter that he can expertly pilot a 17-time champion franchise that views anything short of titles as failures.

It was his time to show that his mistakes in the draft over the past few years were anomalies. That his greatest accomplishment wasn’t acquiring a gift-wrapped Doncic. That he’s the Lakers’ future.

Instead, this may be the beginning of his swan song.

The Lakers stormed into this offseason with a treasure trove of ways to climb atop the league. There was a palpable buzz around them. The whole basketball world was watching.

But instead of assembling a team that inspires fear, they’ve built one that inspires shrugs.

So much for summer 2026.

Lakers fans should prepare for a long winter.

July 2, 2026

Sources: Celtics-Bucks trade talks did not falter due to Giannis contract extension negotiations

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - APRIL 05: Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks before the game against the Memphis Grizzlies at Fiserv Forum on April 05, 2026 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by John Fisher/Getty Images) | Getty Images

On Thursday morning, The Ringer’s Bill Simmons reported on his latest podcast that contract extension talks were a factor in why the Celtics were not able to land Giannis Antetokounmpo.

Antetokounmpo, Simmons reported, wanted a three-year extension while the Celtics wanted two (and the money was based more on percentage of the cap than raw totals). Simmons reported that Antetokounmpo wanted three years at 35%, the Celtics “were pretty entrenched” at two years at 30%.

“Giannis wanted the three [years] for 35% [of the cap], and they couldn’t agree on it,” Simmons said.

(Based on the current cap, that’s a difference of roughly $8.2 million per year).

Wow.

Per: @BillSimmons

Giannis was about to sign off on the Celtics trade, but he wanted a 3 year extension at 35% of the cap but Boston was set on 2 years at 30%.

Brad Stevens would budge on the extension and that’s when he approved the trade to Miami.

Unreal. pic.twitter.com/yKZqqlUnnK
— Savage (@Savageboston) July 2, 2026

However, a league source told CelticsBlog that Giannis Antetokounmpo’s looming extension was not a factor in why the Celtics didn’t land him, and that they were prepared to offer him the full 3-year, 35% contract extension.

Milwaukee ultimately accepted an offer from the Miami Heat that included Tyler Herro, Kel’el Ware, Jaime Jaquez Jr., Kasparas Jakucionis, three first-round picks (including No. 13 in the 2026 NBA draft), one pick swap and one second-round pick. Antetokounmpo, in turn, lands in Miami after a season in which he averaged 27.6 points, 9.8 rebounds, and 5.4 assists, while shooting 62.4% from the field.

On Wednesday, the Celtics traded Jaylen Brown to the Philadelphia 76ers for Paul George, two first-round picks, and two second-round picks. Brown is coming off a career-best season, averaging 28.7 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 5.1 assists, while finishing sixth in MVP voting.

This story will be updated if more information is available.

July 2, 2026

Scal: C's ‘owe it to Tatum' to figure out next ‘championship-level' move

Scal: C's ‘owe it to Tatum' to figure out next ‘championship-level' move originally appeared on NBC Sports Boston

As Jaylen Brown put it in his farewell to Boston, “As one chapter closes, another begins.”

The Boston Celtics will move on to their next chapter without Brown, a franchise cornerstone for the last 10 years. On Wednesday, they traded the 2024 NBA Finals MVP to the Philadelphia 76ers for Paul George, two first-round draft picks, and two second-rounders.

The stunning move hasn’t sat well with C’s fans, who question the meager return and the willingness to send Brown to an Eastern Conference rival — especially one that ousted Boston in the first round of this year’s playoffs. Even Brian Scalabrine, a former Celtic and longtime play-by-play broadcaster for the team, had his gripes with the deal.

“It’s weird with Brad because he has used this line quite a bit, and it really brought comfort to me, which is, ‘We know what our North Star is in Boston. In Boston, it’s a championship.’ But this is not a North Star move, unless there’s something up their sleeve later on down the road,” Scalabrine said on Thursday’s Early Edition.

That take has been the consensus among Celtics fans. George is a significant downgrade, especially at 36 years old, and he’s set to make $57.7 million next season with a $56.6 million player option for 2027-28. In no way does this trade make Boston a better team on paper in the short term.

That said, Scal still believes the C’s will at least be as competitive as they were last season, when Brown propelled them to a 56-26 record and the second seed in the East despite Tatum missing most of the campaign with an Achilles injury.

“Paul George is on our team this year, and in a weird way, I actually think the team is gonna be just as good as they were last year,” he said. “You’re slipping in Tatum instead of Brown. All the young guys, it’s not like they’re gonna stay stagnant. In Boston, everybody gets better.

“You add Mitchell Robinson, Paul George is gonna float around and knock down 3s. But we all can come to the realization that we are not a championship-level team, so what is the next championship-level move?”

Even if the Celtics are among the best in the East next season, they’re still likely a piece or two away from contending with the NBA’s elite. Scalabrine wants the C’s to do right by Jayson Tatum and maximize the team’s potential to win another title under his leadership.

“I don’t know if you owe it to the fans, but you definitely owe it to Jayson Tatum, who’s now in the second part of his career after the Achilles injury,” Scal said. “So what are you gonna do for this guy so he could be a legendary Celtic?

“I know Paul George is not the overall answer, but what is the answer so we can get back on top? Because I look at Oklahoma City, I look at San Antonio, that looks 100 miles away. It doesn’t look like we’re just right there.”

Watch the full Early Edition below:

July 2, 2026

Cavs announce 2026 NBA Summer League roster

LAS VEGAS, NV - JULY 12: Nae'Qwan Tomlin #30 of the Cleveland Cavaliers looks on during the game against the Milwaukee Bucks during the 2025 NBA Summer League game on July 12, 2025 at the Pavilion in Las Vegas, Nevada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE (Photo by Logan Riely/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

The Cleveland Cavaliers begin Summer League on July 10 when they take on the Indiana Pacers at 4:30 PM on ESPN 2. Now, we know who will be a part of the team, as they announced the roster for this season.

The headline of the group is recent second-round pick Meleek Thomas. The shooting guard will make his on-court debut for the wine and gold after signing a standard contract on Wednesday.

Nae’Qwan Tomlin will also see some action this go-around. Tomlin started last season on a two-way contract, but was pressed into duty more than anticipated due to injuries. He performed well and earned a standard deal as a result, but saw his minutes decrease toward the back end of the season. Tomlin is the only other player on a standard contract that will be a part of this group.

Tyrese Proctor is noticeably absent from the group due to spending the summer with the Australian national team.

This year’s squad will be rounded out by all three of the current two-way players: Riley Minix, Tristan, Enaruna, and newly signed undrafted free agent Ernest Udeh Jr.

The group will be led by Cavs assistant Andrew Olson, with Cleveland Charge head coach Eli Kell-Abrams taking on the associate head coach duties.

The entire group that the Cavs will be bringing to Las Vegas can be seen below.

Rashaun Agee – 6’8” forward
Malaki Branham – 6’4” guard
Sean East II – 6’3” guard
Tristan Enaruna – 6’8” forward
Dane Goodwin – 6’6” guard
Xavian Lee – 6’3” guard
Ian Martinez – 6’3” guard
Riley Minix – 6’7” forward
Jaxson Robinson – 6’6” guard
Tre’Von Spillers – 6’7” forward
Meleek Thomas – 6’3” guard
Nae’Qwan Tomlin – 6’8” forward
Ernest Udeh Jr. – 6’11” center

July 2, 2026

NBA free agency winners, losers after wild week of blockbuster trades

The start of NBA free agency has produced plenty of league-altering moves in 2026, just not in the form of many high-profile free agent signings. Instead, blockbuster trades have been the preferred method of transaction for teams this year and it's almost hard to keep up with how many star players switched uniforms since the NBA offseason began.

Giannis Antetokounmpo, Jaylen Brown, Kawhi Leonard, Ja Morant, LaMelo Ball, Julius Randle, Tyler Herro and Paul George were among the players with NBA All-Star credentials to land with new teams after the frenzy of moves that took place in recent days. LeBron James, meanwhile, began the NBA's free agency period as the top free agent on the market and it's still the case as of Thursday, July 2.

The Los Angeles Lakers will look completely different after James announced he plans to play elsewhere, while the Eastern Conference looks a lot stronger despite the Boston Celtics taking a perceived hit in the Brown trade. Keep in mind there are still some moves to be explored and executed, beyond James' future, that could change how this offseason is viewed over time.

Here's a complete breakdown of the early winners and losers after the first few days of the 2026 NBA free agency period

NBA free agency winners

Note: NBA teams can not officially sign free agents to contracts until July 6 at 12:01 p.m. ET

LeBron James

Whatever team the NBA's all-time leading scorer chooses, the fact he's so coveted as a 41-year-old is yet another accomplishment that's largely incomparable in league history. Though part of that is due to James' decision to not prioritize money during this free agent process, he will be a difference maker for whichever playoff contender he chooses. Depending on how much of a pay cut James is willing to take, there may not be a better bargain in the NBA than him next season.

Philadelphia 76ers

The Sixers seemingly came out of nowhere to snag Jaylen Brown from their division rival, exchanging what had been considered one of the worst contracts in the NBA (Paul George) for a second team all-NBA selection coming off the best season of his career (Jaylen Brown), two first-round draft picks and two second-round draft picks. The Sixers also swiped Anfernee Simons and Dean Wade over several others in bargain bench deals. Philadelphia suddenly looks like it could be the biggest threat to the Knicks in the East again.

Miami Heat

Pat Riley and the Heat are winners simply by landing the superstar they've coveted for years in Giannis Antetokounmpo. Miami did lose Norman Powell to free agency, but Bam Adebayo and Andrew Wiggins will return to form perhaps the Eastern Conference's top frontcourt with Antetokounmpo. How the rest of the roster is filled will determine just how big of a win this will appear to be during Antetokounmpo's first year with the Heat. Adding James along with Antetokounmpo would create flashbacks to when Riley formed the Big Three in Miami during James' initial free agency "decision."

Toronto Raptors

The version of Kawhi Leonard that played for the Clippers this past season, paired with Scottie Barnes, should make the Raptors a legitimate Eastern Conference Finals contender. Toronto gave up Brandon Ingram and draft picks to get Leonard via trade, but enough of last year's supporting cast remains and Leonard gives the franchise a veteran closer with multiple championship runs under his belt. The Raptors seemed hamstrung by several contract extensions in recent years that quickly became overpays, so pulling off this move is a worthy bet to take.

NBA free agency losers

Boston Celtics

Celtics lead basketball executive Brad Stevens is taking a beating from fans over how this offseason is going. Boston failed to land Antetokounmpo despite offering Brown and then elected to trade Brown for what's perceived to be the below-market return of George, two first-round draft picks and two second-round draft picks. The Celtics did address issues inside, signing Mitchell Robinson from the New York Knicks, and there could be another move still in the works. But the Boston roster seems worse today than it did after being eliminated from the 2026 NBA playoffs.

Los Angeles Lakers

Though the Lakers pivoted quickly from the LeBron James era, they had to pay a lot to do so and they might not be any closer to contending with the San Antonio Spurs and Oklahoma City Thunder. The Lakers are betting big on the nucleus of Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves and Walker Kessler because they committed most of their salary cap space and draft picks for the foreseeable future toward putting together a new-look roster this offseason.

Detroit Pistons

The Detroit Pistons let go well-regarded veterans in the locker room to upgrade their roster around Cade Cunningham this offseason, but the results have been lackluster thus far with only Isaiah Joe added to the fold. The franchise is also now embroiled in an increasingly uncomfortable contract negotiation with all-NBA center Jalen Duren, a restricted free agent who has taken meetings with several other teams.

New York Knicks

Knicks owner Jim Dolan's determination that the team should not go into the second apron of the NBA's salary cap this offseason to keep its NBA championship team together led to Robinson's departure to the Celtics. Though New York hasn't lost anyone else of significance, the rest of the Eastern Conference looks stronger via trades and the Knicks don't have many avenues to add more depth.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: NBA free agency winners, losers after wild week of blockbuster trades

July 2, 2026

Jaylen Brown’s first statement since being traded to Sixers

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - NOVEMBER 01: Jaylen Brown #7 of the Boston Celtics reacts during warmups before a game against the Houston Rockets at the TD Garden on November 01, 2025 in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Brian Fluharty/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Jaylen Brown is a Sixer. Those are not words I ever thought I’d write, let alone out of nowhere in 2026 free agency after he was dealt for the 36-year-old Paul George of all players.

But here we are. Mike Gansey has not been messing around after taking over as the Sixers’ president of basketball operations. The shocking blockbuster for Brown is really happening, and Philly’s new incoming star has now made his first statement since the trade.

Brown shared his full comments:

Philly #throwtheballup let’s get it pic.twitter.com/zdC6g1dTyM
— Jaylen Brown (@FCHWPO) July 2, 2026

Like all of us, Brown is probably still in a state of shock. After spending all 10 years of his NBA career so far in Boston, becoming a five-time All-Star and NBA champion and Finals MVP there, it’s an awful lot to leave behind both personally and professionally.

Of course, Brown shared just how grateful for is everything he had in Boston:

First and foremost, thank you to the Most High, even in the midst of adversity. I’m here with gratitude.
I’m still processing how this all went down. I’m excited and disappointed at the same time. I earned my respect from this city. I never asked for shortcuts or special treatment. I simply showed up every day, put my head down, and accepted every challenge.
The relationships I built here, the battles we fought together, the championship we brought to this city, and the connection I shared with the fans, I’ll carry on with me.

And when it came to talking about heading to Philly, as you’d expect Brown shared his excitement for the new opportunity. Plus, he put emphasis on how he’s looking forward to earning respect in his new city through hard work. The kind of hard work that’s allowed him to develop into such a high level player.

I’m excited for what’s ahead and grateful for the opportunity to join Philadelphia. Every city has its own identity, its own passion, and its own expectation. I respect that, and I’m looking forward to earning that respect the only way I know how.. through the work.
Philly – throw the ball up let’s get it!

Brown is fresh off a career year averaging 28.7 points, 6.9 rebounds and 5.1 assists per game with a 57.3 true shooting percentage, showcasing such talent as a creator and making the All-NBA Second Team for the second time. It’s still just two years since he rose to Finals MVP level. Waiting to see what Brown does with the Sixers is exciting to say the least.

The good news just keep going, too! How about the Sixers adding even more offensive creation and much needed high-volume, highly accurate three-point shooting to their bench with the excellent value signing of Anfernee Simons.

I won’t dig into everything here, though. Instead, I’ll send you over to some of the great pieces we’ve already published here at LB. Erin Grugan has written all about why this trade was such a no-brainer. Or for a different perspective on why the trade makes sense but (for some) it can be harder to like, Josh Grieb has you covered.

July 2, 2026

The Lakers used their leverage to finally land Walker Kessler from Jazz

LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 4: Walker Kessler #24 of the Utah Jazz arrives to the arena before the game against the Los Angeles Lakers on November 4, 2022 at Crypto.Com Arena in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2022 NBAE (Photo by Juan Ocampo/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

The pressure was on Lakers President of Basketball Operations Rob Pelinka to land an A-list center this offseason.

It was reported that Luka Dončić wanted one. The fans clearly desired it, and with the carousel of starting centers, it was clear the front office had been searching for years.

Pelinka got his guy, reportedly trading for Walker Kessler. It was expensive, but the Lakers think they got what they paid for: a starting center that fits perfectly with Luka and Austin Reaves.

This trade was far from a foregone conclusion. With Kessler as a restricted free agent, the Jazz could’ve matched any contract agreed upon between the Lakers and Kessler. Utah’s reported offer of a five-year, $140 million extension indicated they wanted to keep their big.

However, the Lakers prepared for this summer. They held onto assets at the February trade deadline, saying no to deals. This allowed them more draft picks and cap space in the offseason to permanently fill holes in their roster.

As Dave McMenamin of ESPN illustrated in his recent story, this set up an opportunity for the Lakers to finally acquire Kessler via a trade.

In the past when the Lakers reached out to the Jazz, Kessler was on a cost-controlled rookie contract, making under $3 million. This time around, Kessler was a restricted free agent — and seeking a massive raise.
The Jazz ultimately decided that building around this year’s No. 2 draft pick, Darryn Peterson, while armed with a bevy of draft assets from L.A. would be a better path than overpaying Kessler over the long term.
Utah offered Kessler a five-year, $140 million extension, sources told ESPN’s Tim MacMahon, or about $28 million per year. The Lakers offered a four-year deal worth $130 million, sources told Charania, or about $32.5 million per year, and they emptied their war chest to send their unprotected 2031 and 2033 first-round picks — plus pick swaps in 2028 and 2030 — to Utah in the deal.

In negotiations, whoever has leverage has the advantage.

With the Lakers holding onto their assets and setting up a situation where they’d have a ton of cap space this summer, they were able to make the Jazz an offer they couldn’t refuse. Add in that the Lakers reportedly had a contract richer than what Utah offered, and that’s how Kessler got to LA after so many rumors of the team’s interest in him.

Clearly, the Lakers feel that Kessler will lead to sustainable Lakers excellence. They gave up their 2031 and 2033 first round picks and pick swaps in 2028 and 2030 to acquire Kessler. That’s far more draft capital than they gave up for Luka.

The cost was high, but if it makes Dončić happy and, most importantly, works on the court, then that’s the price of doing business.

Fans have complained during other trade windows that the Lakers didn’t do enough, but this season that won’t be possible to say. Pelinka went all-in and landed his star big.

He used his assets to make a player a team didn’t necessarily want to part with into a Laker, and now the franchise is ready to fully enter the Luka Dončić era with the center they need for success.

You can follow Edwin on Twitter at @ECreates88 or on Bluesky at @ecreates88.bsky.social.

July 2, 2026

Jaylen Brown releases statement following shocking trade to Philadelphia

Jaylen Brown released a statement on social media following his stunning trade to Philadelphia, which included thanking the fans in Boston.

Philly #throwtheballup let’s get it pic.twitter.com/zdC6g1dTyM
— Jaylen Brown (@FCHWPO) July 2, 2026

Here is the full text:

First and foremost, thank you to the Most High, even in the midst of adversity. I'm here with gratitude.

I’m still processing how this all went down. I’m excited and disappointed at the same time. I earned my respect from this city. I never asked for shortcuts or special treatment. I simply showed up every day, put my head down, and accepted every challenge.

The relationships I built here, the battles we fought together, the championship we brought to this city, and the connection I shared with the fans, I’ll carry on with me.

Saying goodbye isn’t easy when you’ve invested your heart into something.

I’m big on respect and actions speak louder than words. To the people of Boston, thank you. To the community I built here I love you, and to the shiftaz we are locked in for life⚡️

As one chapter closes, another begins.

I’m excited for what’s ahead and grateful for the opportunity to join Philadelphia. Every city has its own identity, its own passion, and its own expectation. I respect that, and I’m looking forward to earning that respect the only way I know how.. through the work.

July 2, 2026

ESPN analyst on Jaylen Brown trade: 'One of the dumbest trades in NBA history'

The reaction out of Boston-based and Celtics-focused NBA commentary has centered on what's perceived to be a poor return for Jaylen Brown in the team's trade with the Philadelphia 76ers. Most Celtics fans aren't happy about it, and neither are the people who talk about them for a living.

ESPN analyst and former Celtics player Kendrick Perkins declared it "one of the dumbest trades in NBA history."

In the trade, the Celtics have agreed to ship Brown to the 76ers in exchange for veteran Paul George, two first-round draft picks and two second-round selections, a person with direct knowledge of the deal confirmed to USA TODAY Sports.

Ringer podcast host and noted Celtics fan Bill Simmons said Thursday he was just emerging from being under anesthesia after a colonoscopy and thought "I died," when he learned about the Brown trade, and that Boston had only gotten Paul George, two first-round picks and two second-round picks for Brown.

USA TODAY Sports NBA reporter Lorenzo Reyes contributed to this report.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: ESPN analyst on Jaylen Brown trade: 'One of the dumbest trades in NBA history'

July 2, 2026

LeBron James, Lakers front office had ‘disconnect’ after Russell Westbrook trade

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JANUARY 30: (NEW YORK DAILIES OUT) Russell Westbrook #0 and LeBron James #6 (2nd L) of the Los Angeles Lakers look on against the Brooklyn Nets at Barclays Center on January 30, 2023 in New York City. The Nets defeated the Lakers 121-104. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images) | Getty Images

For those paying particularly close attention to the Lakers during the LeBron James era, there was a clear inflection point.

Riding high after a title in 2020 and feeling hard done by due to injuries the following season, the Lakers front office and LeBron had a harmonious relationship. Looking for an offseason shakeup, the franchise offered up two trades to LeBron: one for Buddy Hield and one for Russell Westbrook.

Fans know how things played out from there and it took the team many years to recover from acquiring Westbrook. When a deal plays out that disastrously, multiple figures are to blame.

Rob Pelinka, now President of Basketball Operations, deserves a lion’s share of the blame, particularly for even offering up the decision to a player on the team. But LeBron doesn’t escape unscathed, either, as he did offer his input.

As it turns out, that moment fractured the relationship between LeBron and the front office so severely that it never recovered, as Dave McMenamin of ESPN reported in his article on Thursday.

There was more of a disconnect between James and the organization, sources said, one that started during the doomed 2021-22 season following the Russell Westbrook trade and never fully recovered.

The shift in how the two sides collaborated after that move was evident. Originally, Pelinka freely shared that he consulted with LeBron and Anthony Davis on roster moves. After the Russ trade, the same synergy didn’t exist.

LeBron, in a calculated move, distanced himself from the front office and any decision-making that happened from that point forward. Similarly, Pelinka said he was the sole decision-maker as well.

That the relationship between the two sides never recovered from that moment isn’t particularly surprising. It’s a cloud that will hang over the post-title tenure for LeBron and Pelinka. It was a huge mistake that backfired in the worst way possible.

Even if the Lakers had modest success after that, it’s a defining moment in both their times with the Lakers and one that, understandably, changed the dynamics between the player and franchise.

You can follow Jacob on Twitter at @JacobRude or on Bluesky at @jacobrude.bsky.social.

July 2, 2026

Report: Willie Green to join Dusty May’s staff

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - APRIL 14: Head coach Willie Green of the New Orleans Pelicans watches the action in the first half against the Los Angeles Lakers at Smoothie King Center on April 14, 2024 in New Orleans, Louisiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Tyler Kaufman/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Free agency is upon us and the Dallas Mavericks have begun making moves, adding Santi Aldama to the roster on Wednesday night with the possible addition of Marcus Sasser forthcoming. As the roster begins to take shape, we are now hearing reports that the coaching staff is as well.

Marc Stein is now reporting that Willie Green will be joining the ranks as a top assistant to Dusty May.

The Mavericks, I’m told, are expected to secure former Pelicans coach Willie Green as a top assistant for Dusty May’s first NBA coaching staff.

The Warriors hoped to bring him back for a second stint on Steve Kerr’s staff but May’s jump to the NBA gave Green two strong options. https://t.co/mt2oGpsYQ2 pic.twitter.com/7GxtzxT0ZY
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) July 2, 2026

After putting together a 12-year playing career through 2015, Green got his first coaching stint with the Golden State Warriors as an assistant in 2018. He rode that first job on the sidelines all the way to the NBA Finals where the Warriors came up short, then moved over to the Phoenix Sun as an assistant for two years before becoming the head coach of the New Orleans Pelicans. He held that position up until this past season when he was dismissed in mid-November after a dismal 2-10 start to the season. As a head coach, Green has a win-loss record of 150-190. The .441 winning percentage may not be the most stellar number, but considering the lengthy injury absences to key players, some of that is understandable. Green took the Pelicans to the Playoffs on two occasions, going 2-8 overall including a sweep at the hands of the Oklahoma City Thunder. He had two winning seasons over the five total seasons he was at the helm.

Although he didn’t have the most successful run in New Orleans, Green is generally considered to be a defensive-minded, player-friendly coach who could be a nice fit next to May. His ability to make genuine connections with players could serve both him and the team well, as the Mavericks build around young star Cooper Flagg, newly drafted Morez Johnson, Jr. and a developing roster that is likely to get younger. Nothing is official yet, and the Golden State Warriors are rumored to be in the mix for his services, but it seems a strong possibility he will be in Dallas alongside May.

I invite you to follow me @_80MPH on X, and check back often at Mavs Moneyball for all the latest on the Dallas Mavericks.

July 2, 2026

Sixers reportedly agree to terms with Anfernee Simons

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - FEBRUARY 09: Anfernee Simons #22 of the Chicago Bulls warms up prior to the game against the Brooklyn Nets at Barclays Center on February 09, 2026 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Evan Bernstein/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Mike Gansey isn’t done yet.

The Sixers have agreed to terms with free-agent Anferenee Simons, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania. The deal is for two years and $12.3 million.

Just in: Free agent guard Anfernee Simons has agreed to a two-year, $12.3 million deal with the Philadelphia 76ers, with a player option in second season, sources tell ESPN. Simons chose the 76ers over other suitors believing his fit is perfect with the revamped 76ers roster. pic.twitter.com/RUbhPzxxxp
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 2, 2026

If Simons has any type of success in Philadelphia, he’ll likely turn down that player option and elect free agency. While we don’t know for sure, it seems like Simons’ contract will take up the rest of the Sixers’ tax-payer mid-level exception. The bulk of that is going to Dean Wade. This also makes it likely that Ariel Hukporti’s slightly-above-minimum deal will be part of the team’s bi-annual exception.

One of the Sixers’ greatest weaknesses last season was their bench. They lacked scoring punch as Quentin Grimes struggled for much of the second half of the season and postseason. Simons, 27, is a terrific scorer and shooter. Splitting last season between the Boston Celtics and Chicago Bulls, Simons averaged 14.3 points in 24.9 minutes per game. He hit 38.5% of his threes on an extremely healthy volume, attempting nearly 10 triples per 36 minutes.

That shooting becomes especially important after the Jaylen Brown trade. Say what you want about Paul George, but his elite three-point shooting was much needed on a team that lacked outside shooters. This will also allow rookie Labaron Philon Jr. to come along slowly and not be forced into big minutes for a team who is suddenly all-in.

July 2, 2026

The Utah Jazz Ceiling Has Never Been Higher

According to Shams Charania of ESPN, the Utah Jazz have reportedly agreed to a sign-and-trade with the Los Angeles Lakers in which the Lakers will get Walker Kessler on a brand-new four-year, $130m deal with a player option after year three. In return, the Jazz will receive two unprotected first-round picks in 2031 and 2033 as well as two pick swaps in 2028 and 2030.

BREAKING: The Los Angeles Lakers are acquiring Walker Kessler from the Utah Jazz for unprotected first-round picks in 2031 and 2033 and first-round swaps in 2028 and 2030, sources tell ESPN. Kessler will sign a massive four-year, $130 million deal with the Lakers. pic.twitter.com/rt8b17fEQZ
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 1, 2026

Walker Kessler is a good young player with plenty of room to improve. This move undoubtedly makes the Utah Jazz a worse team in 2026-27. Still, it is hard to imagine a more perfect center to start next to Jaren Jackson Jr. than Walker Kessler. So why do the Jazz make this move right now? Are they going to waste Jaren and Lauri together? Let’s dive in.

The Jazz are finally operating as if they are an actual NBA team competing to get better and win a championship. For many years during the dark ages of rebuilding and acquiring talent, decisions like this didn’t really matter nearly as much because the Jazz weren’t really trying to win basketball games. Now that the Jazz have acquired the talent they tanked for so long to obtain, like Jaren Jackson Jr. and Darryn Peterson to join guys like Lauri Markkanen, Ace Bailey, and Keyonte George, they are tasked with evaluating which players and contracts best open the biggest window into contention possible.

Jun 23, 2026; New York, NY, USA; NBA commissioner Adam Silver announces the second pick in the 2026 NBA draft, Kansas guard Darryn Peterson after he was selected by the Utah Jazz at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images | Brad Penner-Imagn Images

Let’s be honest: with or without Walker Kessler, the Jazz probably weren’t beating the Thunder or Spurs in a seven-game series next season. The future is bright, but openly acknowledging that is okay. Both teams have the luxury of elite, all-NBA-level talent on rookie-scale, team-friendly contracts. The Jazz simply do not possess that same level of flexibility.

So… What does any of that have to do with the Jazz not bringing Walker Kessler back? Bringing back Walker Kessler at that number, quite frankly, would have forced the Jazz into a difficult space roster-building-wise. I still think the Jazz were willing to do it because they are a better team with Walker Kessler than they are without him, but that extension makes it very difficult to extend Keyonte George and keep a guy like Lauri Markkanen. But when a desperate Lakers team offers two unprotected first-round picks and two pick swaps, you don’t overthink it. You pick your jaw up from the floor, and you make that deal without hesitation. Those picks are so far into the future that there is no telling what the Lakers roster could look like at that point.

Draft picks in the NBA are currency. Draft picks are the means by which big-time deals get done. I do not anticipate that the Utah Jazz made that deal for Walker Kessler with the expectation of actually making the draft selections in 2031 and 2033. By making that deal, the Jazz have unlocked the assets to pursue virtually any trade they want. They also preserve the financial flexibility to keep Jaren Jackson Jr. and Lauri Markkanen together for longer if they choose. Now, the Jazz window opens and overlaps just as the two top dogs in the Western Conference lose flexibility. Victor Wembanyama is in the last year of his rookie contract, and will surely get a massive payday from the Spurs. Stephon Castle is also likely to be paid handsomely within the next two years when his rookie contract ends. The Oklahoma City Thunder are already starting to feel the effects of decreased salary flexibility, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is set to make $20m more following the 2026-27 season. Can you see where this is headed for Utah?

The Jazz undoubtedly are a worse basketball team today than they were yesterday. I still expect them to compete for a playoff spot in 2026-27, but it isn’t as sure as it would have been had we retained Walker Kessler. That said, it is hard not to be ecstatic about the flexibility the Jazz now have with both their salary cap and draft picks. The Jazz took a small step back in the short term to put themselves in line to take a giant step forward, right as their fellow Western Conference giants are having to come back to the pack a little bit themselves.

It is hard not to be excited as a Jazz fan right now… The Jazz may have taken a small step backward today, but they are positioned to take a much larger step forward in the not-so-distant future. Our ceiling has never been higher.