Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka has been busy this summer, finding deals and bringing in players to help mold the purple and gold into championship contention. His latest move is adding a former three-time NBA champion into the fold.
Los Angeles agreed to sign veteran free agent center Kevon Looney to a one-year deal worth $3.9 million, Life Sports Agency CEO Todd Ramasar told ESPN.
Looney was one of the top available backup centers in the free agency pool, a position that L.A. needed to address. The Lakers made a deal to get Walker Kessler as their starter. They dealt last year's starting center, Deandre Ayton, to the Washington Wizards for Jaden Hardy and two future second-round picks. Last year's backup center, Jaxson Hayes, signed a two-year, $12 million deal with the Utah Jazz.
Looney brings an array of experience and winning pedigree, having been a part of the Warriors dynasty with Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, Kevin Durant, Draymond Green and Andre Iguodala. He's an asset expected to thrive in pick-and-roll action with Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, when they play staggered minutes together.
Last year, Looney joined the New Orleans Pelicans on a two-year, $16 million deal (the second year was a team option), which allowed him to reunite with former Warriors teammate Jordan Poole. Looney signed with New Orleans, instead of remaining in the Bay Area, because he felt like his playing time, especially during the 2025 NBA playoffs, was limited and that the Warriors were not utilizing him in ways that suited his strengths, even against favorable matchups, according to NBC Sports Bay Area.
In his 11th NBA season, Looney only appeared in 21 games for the New Orleans Pelicans, where he averaged 2.8 points and 5.6 rebounds.
Looney's career averages include 4.9 points, 5.7 rebounds, 0.5 blocks and 0.5 steals in 17 minutes. He's not known for his offense, but can still finish at a high level when given the opportunity. Looney has a career 57% field goal percentage.
Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown formed one of the NBA’s best duos for many years. But that tandem is no longer intact after the Boston Celtics traded Brown to the Philadelphia 76ers last week for Paul George, two first-round picks and two second-round picks.
It was a stunning trade that saw Brown go to a longtime Celtics rival, one that knocked Boston out of the 2026 playoffs with a Game 7 win at TD Garden back in May.
Tatum spent nine seasons as a teammate of Brown’s in Boston after being drafted in 2017.
He reacted publicly to the trade for the first time Tuesday night at an event in Newton where he was promoting his new children’s book.
“To be honest, it’s weird,” Tatum told the crowd, as seen in the video player above. “You play on a team with a guy for nine years, who I was fortunate enough to go to the Finals with twice, and win a championship, and push each other to be the players that we are today.
“The NBA is an incredible business, it’s an incredible job, but there are some downsides to the business that we’re in. And moments like this, where you just kind of feel like you’re going to be on the team with somebody, because that’s all you know.
“And then it’s just like, one day you find out that they’re no longer on your team anymore. And we’re all humans. We feel all those emotions. Going into the facility, and knowing that you have different teammates, and somebody that you’ve been to war with, essentially, is on a different team.”
He continued: “It’s tough. But it just makes you appreciate the moments and times that we had. Obviously, it came to an abrupt ending, but it doesn’t mean that it wasn’t super successful. Some great years, obviously, that he gave to the city and to the organization.”
Tatum and Brown helped the Celtics advance to the Eastern Conference Finals five times and the NBA Finals twice during their time together, including a championship in 2024.
The Celtics’ roster will look plenty different next season. In addition to Brown’s departure, the C’s have added George (trade), Mitchell Robinson (free agent) and Mike Conley Jr. (free agent) to the team so far this offseason.
“The tough part is you miss teammates, but then you have new teammates, and you want to welcome those guys and accept them and move forward with them,” Tatum said. “So there is a balance there.”
Former NBA star Lamar Odom is expected to enter a plea deal in a DUI case in Las Vegas, according to his defense attorney.
Odom, 46, was arrested Jan. 17 and later charged with driving under the influence, speeding and failure to stay in a driving lane. He pleaded not guilty in March.
Odom plans to enter a no-contest plea that will reduce his initial DUI charge to a reckless driving charge, according to his attorney, Michael Becker. Through a no-contest plea, Odom will accept the terms of the Clark County District Attorney’s Office without admitting guilt.
Former Lakers player Lamar Odom attends the Lakers-Rockets game during Game 1 of their first-round playoff series on Saturday, April 18, 2026 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. Los Angeles Times via Getty Images
He was scheduled for a bench trial Tuesday in Las Vegas Justice Court, but the court hearing was continued for a plea entry later this month. He is not expected to appear in person, according to Becker.
The Clark County District Attorney’s Office did not immediately return requests for comment.
On Jan. 17, a Nevada State Police Highway Patrol trooper observed Odom speeding along a Las Vegas highway and switching lanes without a turn signal, according to the arrest report. When pulled over, Odom allegedly had bloodshot eyes and smelled of marijuana, the trooper said in the arrest report.
Odom denied drinking alcohol and told the trooper that the passenger was smoking marijuana, according to the report. The trooper found the field sobriety tests “unsatisfactory,” saying Odom failed to touch the tip of his nose with his finger and lost his balance.
Las Vegas, NV General views photos from outside the regional justice center where Lamar Odom was scheduled to appear before the court for his DUI charge. ACES / BACKGRID
Odom won championships in 2009 and 2010 with the Los Angeles Lakers. He also played for the Los Angeles Clippers, Miami Heat and Dallas Mavericks during a 14-year NBA career.
His 2013 marriage to reality TV star Khloe Kardashian was tabloid fodder, and the couple’s wedding was showcased on “Keeping Up with the Kardashians.” They divorced months later. That same year, Odom was arrested for a DUI in Los Angeles. He later pleaded no contest and received three years of probation.
In 2015, Odom made headlines after suffering a medical episode during a stay at a legal brothel in Nevada called Love Ranch. In the arrest report, Odom allegedly told the trooper that he had 12 strokes and six heart attacks and was “poisoned at the brothel in Pahrump.”
The Warriors are losing a valuable member of their frontcourt to NBA free agency.
After center Quinten Post signed a three-year, $30 million offer sheet with the Memphis Grizzlies, the Warriors reportedly have decided not to match it, ESPN’s Shams Charania reported Tuesday, citing sources.
Golden State had until 8:59 p.m. PT on Tuesday to match the Grizzlies’ offer sheet. Instead, the 2024 No. 52 overall pick out of Boston College appears to be on his way to Memphis.
The Golden State Warriors decided not to match Quinten Post's three-year, $30 million offer sheet with the Grizzlies, allowing the 7-footer to join Memphis, sources tell ESPN. The Grizzlies add Post to a reshaped frontline that includes No. 3 pick Cameron Boozer, Zach Edey,… https://t.co/rQ5KYqV2YE
Per Charania, it’s the first time since 2020 that an NBA team has lost a player to an offer sheet, when the Sacramento Kings declined to match the Atlanta Hawks’ four-year, $72 million offer to Bogdan Bogdanovic.
In two seasons with the Warriors, Post averaged 7.8 points and 4.0 rebounds in 16.9 minutes across 109 games (49 starts). The 7-foot stretch big man was a key 3-point threat for Golden State, shooting 36.4 percent from behind the arc on over four attempts per game.
Though he carved out a significant role in the Bay, the Dutch native was set to enter the 2026-27 NBA season as the No. 3 center on the Warriors’ depth chart, behind returning veterans Al Horford and Kristaps Porziņģis.
In the end, as Golden State persists in their courtship of LeBron James this offseason, general manager Mike Dunleavy apparently decided $30 million was more than they were willing to offer Post right now.
ATLANTA, GA - APRIL 23: Jonathan Kuminga #0 of the Atlanta Hawks talks to the media after the game against the New York Knicks during Round One Game Three of the 2026 NBA Playoffs on April 23, 2026 at State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia. 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 2026 NBAE (Photo by Adam Hagy/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
After making a flurry of signings early in free agency, the Lakers appear to be fully focused on Jonathan Kuminga as their next target.
On Tuesday, Anthony Slater of ESPN reported that the Lakers met with Kuminga early in free agency but haven’t yet made an offer that’s convinced him that LA should be his new basketball home.
The Los Angeles Lakers continue to actively pursue unrestricted free agent wing Jonathan Kuminga, but they have not yet given him an enticing enough offer to commit, league sources told ESPN on Tuesday. After his $24.3 million team option was declined by the Atlanta Hawks on June 29, Kuminga met virtually the next day with Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka and coach JJ Redick, who pitched him on a vision of being a high-minutes wing next to Luka Doncic in a spacious on-court environment conducive to his skill set, league sources told ESPN.
With how fast free agency moves, the Lakers couldn’t sit around and wait on Kuminga.
Slater also reported in the piece that the Lakers are continuing to talk to Kuminga’s agent and have made it known he will likely start if he signs.
Pelinka has remained in touch with Kuminga’s agent, Aaron Turner, subtly improving their offer in recent days, league sources told ESPN, while reiterating to Kuminga his importance to what the Lakers are building around Doncic, a likely starting role and what the opportunity could do for his career.
The fact that they’ve spoken with his agent again and improved their offer indicates they remain very interested in bringing him on. This deep into free agency, one could easily argue that Kuminga is the best wing available. With the Lakers focused on win-now moves, grabbing a player with his upside would be huge.
Considering how much of LA’s cap space is accounted for, it’s no surprise that the talking points President of Basketball Operations Rob Pelinka is selling to Kuminga during these meetings include his role and the opportunity to play well in an environment that gets a ton of national attention.
Kuminga being a starter with the Lakers sets up a scenario where he can take a deal here, bet on himself and improve his value around the league. The Lakers have gotten players before on deals where they came to LA to accomplish this.
Deandre Ayton is the most recent example. The Blazers bought him out and he came to the Lakers on a modest deal. Though that didn’t necessarily work out with Ayton now reportedly being traded to the Wizards, the idea is a good one and could work for Kuminga.
Still, Kuminga hasn’t bought what the Lakers front office is selling. Slater notes in his piece that Kuminga is still waiting for potentially improved deals, which could come as “offseason dominoes continue to fall.” Considering the Cavs are also reported as one of the teams interested in him, it appears there’s a LeBron-sized elephant in the room.
Pelinka has made some big moves this summer, so we’ll see if he can pull off another by bringing in a relatively young wing with tremendous upside.
He has never experienced the intense scrutiny that comes with leading one of the biggest names in sports.
Until now, Luka Dončić was shielded. Getty Images
Until now, Dončić shared the heat with LeBron James.
When the Lakers sputtered, the world pointed its finger at the man who has been the face of the league for two decades. Even though James is 41 years old, he’s still the most talked-about basketball player in the world. No one receives more criticism.
The 27-year-old never asked for this. He wanted to spend his entire career in Dallas before a shocking trade in February 2025 sent him to the Lakers.
Some players love the attention that comes with being a superstar in Los Angeles. Magic Johnson wowed us with his charisma. Kobe Bryant intoxicated us with his intensity. James captivated us with his aura.
The 27-year-old never asked for this. He wanted to spend his entire career in Dallas before a shocking trade in February 2025 sent him to the Lakers. JASON SZENES/ NY POST
Dončić is different. He’s private. He’s reserved. He prefers to let his game do his talking.
He’s in for a reckoning.
The Lakers are now his. He’s front and center in the storm with no one to help block the wind.
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Dončić played a major role in constructing the Lakers’ current roster and he’s going to shoulder the blame if they struggle.
He wanted Austin Reaves to remain his teammate.
The Lakers made sure he wouldn’t walk in free agency, signing him to a monster four-year, $185 million contract, the maximum other teams were allowed to pay him.
The Lakers made sure he wouldn’t walk in free agency, signing him to a monster four-year, $185 million contract, the maximum other teams were allowed to pay him. AFP via Getty Images
He asked for Walker Kessler.
The Lakers responded by emptying their treasure chest, shipping two unprotected first-round picks and two first-round pick swaps to Utah and penning Kessler to a four-year, $130 million deal.
He didn’t love playing alongside Deandre Ayton.
The Lakers dealt him to Washington in exchange for Jaden Hardy and a pair of second-round draft picks in 2031 and 2032.
He wanted the Lakers to build a roster similar to the Mavericks team he led to the Finals in 2024.
The Lakers completely overhauled the team, adding Kessler, Sandro Mamukelashvili, Collin Sexton, and Quentin Grimes.
He wanted the Lakers to build a roster similar to the Mavericks team he led to the Finals in 2024. FERNANDO VILLAR/EPA/Shutterstock
Everyone who started for the Lakers in the first-round of the playoffs is gone, including James, Ayton, Rui Hachimura, Luke Kennard and Marcus Smart.
If the Lakers can compete with the elite teams in the West, Dončić will be celebrated.
If they fall short?
Dončić better prepare for the finger to be pointed his direction.
We all saw how James’ relationship with the Lakers fractured after the superstar persuaded the franchise to break up its 2020 championship core to acquire Russell Westbrook, which turned out to be an unmitigated disaster.
If Kessler doesn’t transform into an All-Star, you can bet Dončić will receive some of the blame for the Lakers emptying their clip and having zero tradable first-round picks over the next SEVEN years.
So far, Dončić has only seen glimpses of what it’s like to be the face of the Lakers.
So far, Dončić has only seen glimpses of what it’s like to be the face of the Lakers. Charles Wenzelberg/New York Post
He readied himself for the scrutiny by spending last summer getting into arguably the best shape of his career.
He tried to keep his head above water when his contentious child custody battle with his ex-fiancée over their daughters took over the news cycle last season.
He made jaws drop when he averaged 37.6 points, 7.8 assists and 7.4 rebounds during a 12-game span amid the Lakers’ 16-2 run last spring.
He made stomachs sink when he suffered a strained hamstring in April that sidelined him for the entire postseason.
Despite all of that, James was still the talk of the town.
The narratives surrounding him were piercingly loud.
He made jaws drop when he averaged 37.6 points, 7.8 assists and 7.4 rebounds during a 12-game span amid the Lakers’ 16-2 run last spring. Charles Wenzelberg/New York Post
Can LeBron once again beat Father Time in his unprecedented 23rd season? Are the Lakers better without him? Will he embrace being the team’s third option? Can he carry the Lakers in the postseason without Dončić and Reaves? Was leading the Lakers past the Rockets in the first round of the playoffs his greatest achievement yet? Is he retiring? If he doesn’t retire, will he wear a Laker uniform next season?
Dončić will no longer be able to hide behind all of that noise.
The entire spotlight will be on him.
His play will be scrutinized. His words will be dissected. He’ll be under a magnifying glass. He’ll be the talk of national sports shows. He’ll command all of the headlines.
It’s the type of attention that can propel a player to reach his potential—or sink him.
It seems there's mutual interest from Kuminga and his camp, however, the 23-year-old wants to weigh out all of his options in the event there's a better deal on the table, according to ESPN.
The Lakers are offering Kuminga a starting role, playing high minutes alongside Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves. ESPN reported that there are many within the Lakers' brass that feel his skill set is a fit with Dončić and head coach JJ Reddick's offensive scheme.
However, Kuminga and his agent Aaron Turner are not yet sold on that idea in belief that there are other routes they can take.
Here are potential landing spots for Jonathan Kuminga:
Jonathan Kuminga potential landing spots
Here are potential teams that Kuminga could end up playing for by the start of the 2026-27 regular season:
Los Angeles Lakers
Kuminga has been in discussion with the Lakers since becoming an unrestricted free agent. His team option worth $24.3 million was declined by the Atlanta Hawks on June 29. Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka met with Kuminga in a virtual setting the following day, according to ESPN.
The Lakers added all sorts of assets this summer in Walker Kessler, Sandro Mamukelashvili, Quentin Grimes, Jaden Hardy and Collin Sexton. Kuminga would seemingly be a replacement for Rui Hachimura, who was not brought back and instead signed with the neighboring Clippers.
Atlanta Hawks
There's a chance that Kuminga does, in fact, return to the Hawks but on a friendlier deal than the $24.3 million the team would have owed him if they picked up his option. The deal would be something that makes sense for both sides.
Kuminga was traded to the Hawks on Feb. 5, along with Buddy Hield, in a deal that sent Kristaps Porzingis to the Golden State Warriors. He averaged 12.3 points on 47.6% field goal shooting and 34.6% from 3-point. He pulled in 5.3 rebounds, 2.1 assists and 0.9 steals in 22.1 minutes, appearing in 16 games for Atlanta.
However, "a reunion isn't being actively discussed", ESPN reported.
Cleveland Cavaliers
The Cleveland Cavaliers also have interest in Kuminga and his talent. There's familiarity with Kuminga in Cleveland, as their head coach Kenny Atkinson coached Kuminga in his first three NBA seasons while serving as an assistant under Steve Kerr with the Golden State Warriors.
It would make for a nice get-together, however the Cavaliers have their eyes set on landing LeBron James.
Sacramento Kings
The Sacramento Kings were heavily involved in the Kuminga sweepstakes a year ago. According to ESPN, the team checked back in with Kuminga to gauge his interest. However, it would take some maneuvering financially to make it happen. The likely scenario would be to execute a sign-and-trade. The Kings have been hesitant to discuss those plans, ESPN reports.
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - APRIL 07: Kevon Looney #55 of the New Orleans Pelicans reacts during the second half of a game against the Utah Jazz at Smoothie King Center on April 07, 2026 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 agent center Kevon Looney has agreed on a one-year, $3.9 million deal with the Los Angeles Lakers, Life Sports Agency CEO Todd Ramasar tells ESPN. pic.twitter.com/fxfdg3yhSV
The contract is a veteran’s minimum and, for those tracking the Lakers’ proximity to the first apron, will only count for $2.4 million toward the cap.
Looney spent last season with the Pelicans, the first campaign of his career not with Golden State. He played just 21 games, averaging 14.7 minutes per contest. He had rather modest stats, scoring 2.8 points and grabbing 5.6 rebounds per game.
With the Warriors, Looney garnered a reputation as an ironman, playing in 82 games in back-to-back seasons in 2021-22 and 2022-23. In his last four years in San Francisco, he played at least 74 games.
However, in New Orleans, he dealt with injuries, starting with a left knee injury that ruled him out to open the season. After struggling without him early in the year, the Pelicans signed DeAndre Jordan, who effectively took Looney’s entire role on the roster.
As a result, Looney played just 10 games from the start of December until the end of the season. The team turned down his option for this season, making him an unrestricted free agent once again.
At just 30 years old, Looney still has plenty left in the tank, even if he’s been in the league since he was 19 years old. He will not provide the Lakers a lob threat as a backup big, but he will certainly give them a great screen setter and another solid rebounder, particularly on the offensive glass.
Even in a disappointing season in New Orleans, Looney had an offensive rebound percentage of 16.6%, well above the marks from Deandre Ayton (11.5%) and Jaxson Haye (10%) last season. It’s clear that, between Looney and Walker Kessler, the Lakers have placed an emphasis on being a better rebounding team next season.
At a veteran’s minimum deal, this will not impact any cap space or any moves the team can or may make to create cap space to go after a wing. Looney will be one of the final players signed in the sequence of events once the Lakers start finalizing moves.
The team has agreed to terms with Kevon Looney on a one-year deal for a veteran minimum’s salary of $3.9 million, his agent Life Sports Agency CEO Todd Ramasar confirmed to the California Post on Tuesday.
ESPN first reported the deal.
The Los Angeles Lakers have agreed to a one-year, $3.9 million contract with three time champion Kevon Looney in NBA free agency. Getty Images
Looney will join the Lakers with the opportunity to be the primary backup center behind Kessler, who the Lakers will sign to a four-year, $130 million deal after acquiring Kessler from the Jazz in a sign and trade.
Sandro Mamukelashvili, who agreed to join the Lakers on a four-year, $52 million contract, is also expected to factor into the Lakers’ big man rotation.
An 11-year veteran, Looney got his start in the league when the Warriors drafted him out of UCLA with the 30th overall pick in 2015.
After playing sparingly as a rookie, Looney saw his minutes increase beginning his second year when he became a valuable member of Steve Kerr’s rotation as a backup big man who started occasionally.
He became a full-time starter for the Warriors in his seventh season, averaging a then career-high 21.1 minutes in 82 games (80 starts). Looney recorded 6 points, 7.3 rebounds and 2 assists per game during the Warriors’ 2021-22 championship season.
Looney remained a full-time starter during the 2022-23 season, averaging career-highs of 7 points, 9.3 rebounds (3.3 offensive boards) 2.5 assists and 23.9 minutes in 82 games (70 starts), before moving into a backup role for his final two seasons with the Warriors.
After 10 seasons with the Warriors, Looney played for a team based outside of The Golden State for the first time since high school when he joined the Pelicans on a two-year, $16 million deal that had a team option on the second season.
Looney sparingly played for the Pelicans, who had young big men Derik Queen and Yves Missi on the roster in addition to veteran center DeAndre Jordan, appearing in just 21 regular season games (14.7 minutes).
Even at a more advanced stage of his career entering his 12th NBA season, Looney remains a positive contributor with defensive rebounding, offensive rebounding, rim protection and screening.
And after a decade of being a complementary piece who made the game easier for perimeter stars such as Steph Curry, Kevin Durant and Klay Thompson, Looney will have the opportunity to do similar playing alongside Lakers stars Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves.
MILWAUKEE, WI - APRIL 3: The sneakers worn by Neemias Queta #88 of the Boston Celtics during the game against the Milwaukee Bucks on April 3, 2026 at Fiserv Forum Center 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. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Gary Dineen/NBAE via Getty Images). | NBAE via Getty Images
SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH - DECEMBER 08: Walker Kessler #24 of the Utah Jazz reacts to a call during the first half of a game against the LA Clippers at Delta Center on December 08, 2023 in Salt Lake City, Utah. 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 Alex Goodlett/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NBA. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Lakers fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.
The Lakers certainly aren’t running last year’s team back.
This massive exodus wasn’t a surprise. The Lakers set themselves up with a ton of cap space and open roster spots to surround Luka Dončić with everything he needs to succeed.
With so many new additions, there are a ton of Lakers to get acquainted with. For our SB Nation Reacts survey this week, we are asking fans which new player they are most excited to watch.
Kessler is probably the easy choice.
He is a max player and the center this franchise has been searching for throughout the 2020s. With Kessler being sold as the missing piece Luka needs, all eyes will be on him to deliver.
Sexton is a bucket-getter. As the backup scoring guard, he should be an offensive injection for the Lakers. Similar to Kessler, this will be the first time he’s on a team with big expectations, and he will certainly deliver some highlights that get fans excited.
Grimes is also an offensive player and can score in bunches. With the Lakers, the hope is that he can return to his 2024-25 form, where he shot over 38% from deep. If he can do that, he’ll become a fan favorite just like Hachimura was.
Will Mamu be a starter for the Lakers? Is he going to have a bigger role here than he had with the Raptors? Will his personality shine in Los Angeles? Mamu is certainly an intriguing player, and not knowing about his role and impact could make him the most exciting addition.
Let us know who you are most excited about by participating in the poll and discussing it in the comment section.
PHILADELPHIA, PA - NOVEMBER 11: VJ Edgecombe #77 of the Philadelphia 76ers guards Anfernee Simons #4 of the Boston Celtics during the game on November 11, 2025 at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 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 David Dow/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
With the NBA’s calendar year reset, the Sixers have announced all of their standard free-agent signings and trades of the 2026 offseason so far. As Anfernee Simons talked to the Philadelphia media for the first time over Zoom Tuesday, he explained how their recruiting pitch stood out from the rest.
As he was sorting through potential suitors, Simons did feel that the Sixers offered a good blend of positional need plus the chance to compete for a championship. That was even before Philly added his All-NBA running mate from Boston last season in Jaylen Brown.
What put the Sixers ahead of the rest was the phone call executive VP of basketball operations Jameer Nelson to Simons’ parents.
“Obviously, I was taking a few calls from different teams,” Simons said. “I got a call from Jameer, Jameer called my parents. I talked to Nick [Nurse], and I just felt like at the time, that was probably the best fit for me.”
A lot of that sounds like the standard reaching out that takes place when bringing in a player to a new team, and it is. Simons clarified that reaching out to his family was a step that went above and beyond. He described that it set the Sixers apart in their pursuit of him.
“That’s one thing that other teams didn’t do,” Simons said. “That was pretty much one of a good selling point of me coming here and me feeling like I’m needed here and I’m wanted here.”
Much has been made of the hooper resume the new Sixers’ front office boasts. When he addressed the media in town for the first time, Dean Wade highlighted Mike Gansey’s Division-1 basketball career and how that competitiveness has shaped him as an executive.
Now it appears Nelson has used his experience as a player as he looks to bring players into Philadelphia. They’re still a ways away from their finished product taking the court, but the Sixers’ new brass has certainly made their first impression.
I’m in Scarsdale, standing outside of Eye Designs of Westchester, and waiting for Mike Brown, head coach of the NBA Champion New York Knicks. This is where Brown goes for glasses, and if my calculations are correct, today would be his six-month checkup. Or tomorrow. Or one day this week.
I take a break to buy a Gatorade from the nearby gas station. It’s hot, the kind of heat that makes perspiration cover the surface of a large, bald dome like Mike’s. He’s so bald you doubt he ever had hair. Oh, but he did.
Raised in a military family that moved frequently between the United States, Germany, and Japan, young Michael Burton developed discipline, adaptability, and attention to detail while his hair grew in nice and thick. Friends recall that he was more than just a handsome head of hair; they say he was intelligent, organized, and fiercely loyal. Whether standing up for classmates, helping teammates improve after practice, or delivering newspapers at 3 a.m. for an injured teammate, Brown consistently put others first and never gloated about his looks. Sometimes friends caught him checking his profile in the reflective glass of a trophy case, but he insisted (a little bashfully) that he was only imagining himself winning the Larry O’Brien for the Knicks. Can you imagine having such foresight?!
<p>Mike Brown, playing for Sand Diego. Photo courtesy of https://usdtoreros.com/</p>
I want to pop my head into Eye Designs and ask if Mike has arrived in my absence, but the receptionist mentioned the police last time. Instead, I resume my post just past the corner of the front window and patiently sip my Gatorade (lemon-lime, which I assume to be Mike’s favorite).
You might ask, “Why does Mike always ask who let the dogs out?” Because he’s the original dog and wants to reconnect with his pack. After hooping at Mesa Community College and the University of San Diego, Brown entered the NBA through dogged persistence. He convinced the Denver Nuggets to create an internship for him, performed every task asked of him without complaint, and quickly established himself as a tireless worker. Brown progressed from intern to video coordinator, scout, and assistant coach. Janitors often reported that Brown slept in the office while studying film, resting his head (still adorned with truly excellent hair) on the desk.
Mike Brown, far left. Photo courtesy of https://usdtoreros.com/
His work ethic and attention to detail became defining traits throughout his career. Former coach Bernie Bickerstaff is rumored to have said, “If success is the ankle, Mike is a dog who refuses to let it go.” (Truth: I started that rumor.) During that time, Mike sometimes babysat Bernie’s little brat, J.B. These are the sacrifices, folks.
Brown began his NBA coaching career under Bickerstaff with the Washington Wizards in 1997 before suffering under the constant geniality of Rick Carlisle with the Indiana Pacers. Around this time, Mike began shaving his head. The new look inspired Carlisle, who said, “Geez, that looks so good on Mike; maybe bald would look good on me.” Rick was mistaken.
Mike later joined Gregg Popovich’s staff in San Antonio and won his first championship as an assistant in 2003. During these formative years, Brown built a coaching foundation rooted in defense, accountability, and preparation while learning from some of the most respected basketball minds in the sport.
On a recent episode of the Roommates podcast, Brown reflected on his time in Texas. “I’ll never forget at the end of my first year there, we were meeting as a staff, and Pop says, ‘I got to thank Tim Duncan.’ Why? […] He said, ‘Mikey, if your best player doesn’t allow you to coach him, you have no shot at coaching anybody else on the team. And Tim allows me to do it.’” Mikey’s time in San Antonio was great because of a) Pop’s lessons and b) his babysitting days were finally behind him.
Back in Scarsdale, the sun is melting me, so I slip into Candis (no apostrophe) Nail and Spa next door. I inquire about the cost of a pedicure. The woman who greets me takes one look at my sandaled feet and says, “For you, it’s double.” That hardly seems fair, so I decline. Before leaving, I ask if Mike Brown ever patronizes the place, and she says, “For him, it’s free.” It pays to coach the Knicks. I return to my post and contemplate whether wearing a shirt with Mike’s face on it makes me seem a little creepy.
You know who has kinda creepy tendencies? LeBron James, whom Mike coached in Cleveland. Brown took the head coaching job there in 2005, at the tender age of 35. He quickly established himself as one of the league’s premier defensive coaches, leading a young LeBron and the Cavs to the 2007 NBA Finals. And isn’t it poetic that Mike had to defeat two former teams, the Cavs and the Spurs, to win a trophy with the Knicks?
<p>LOS ANGELES, CA – FEBRUARY 15: LeBron James #23 of the Cleveland Cavaliers talks with head coach Mike Brown during the game against the Los Angeles Lakers on February 15, 2007 at Staples Center in Los Angeles, California. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2007 NBAE (Photo by Noah Graham/NBAE via Getty Images)</p> | NBAE via Getty Images
Brown’s emphasis on defense became the foundation of Cleveland’s rise. James credits Brown for shaping those early teams. “Mike gave us a defensive identity early in my career,” James said in June 2024, during an episode of his Mind the Game podcast. “We bought into his system, and that’s the reason we made our first Finals run in ’07. He deserves a lot of credit for setting that foundation.” That did not stop Bron from taking his talents to South Beach, but moving along. . . .
Cleveland posted a 305-187 regular-season record during Brown’s first stint, including consecutive 60-win seasons and a franchise-record 66 victories in 2008-09. Brown won NBA Coach of the Year in 2009. Despite consistent regular-season excellence, Cleveland never returned to the Finals, and Brown was dismissed during the uncertainty surrounding LeBron’s impending free agency. Believe it or not, this would not be the first time Mike won COTY and only to be pink-slipped soon after.
A blue BMW parks in the lot, and I wonder what Mike drives. My guess is a maroon Mini Cooper, with the driver’s seat pushed back to the trunk and a Planet Fitness sticker on the bumper. A short, dumpy dude decamps from the beamer and heads into the Math Learning Center, which is cleverly called Mathnasium. Cute. I get lost in thoughts of kids trying to use calculators while jumping on trampolines and chide myself to stay focused.
The next stop on Brown’s timeline is a stint with the Lakers, where he inherited a veteran roster featuring Kobe Bryant, Pau Gasol, Steve Nash, and Dwight Howard. At the time, he was viewed primarily as a defensive specialist whose offenses lacked creativity. The Lakers hired him to stabilize a team that had drifted from its championship peak, but Brown lasted only five games into his second season before being fired. He later returned to Cleveland for a second stint, only to be dismissed again shortly before LeBron’s return to the franchise. He was replaced by David Blatt, known for a remarkable ability to sleep with his eyes open.
LOS ANGELES, CA – DECEMBER 27: Kobe Bryant #24 of the Los Angeles Lakers confers with head coach Mike Brown during the game against the Utah Jazz at Staples Center on December 27, 2011 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Stephen Dunn/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Ever determined, Mike reframed those setbacks as turning points. After years of being defined as a defense-first coach, Brown joined Steve Kerr’s staff with the Golden State Warriors in 2016. The six seasons he spent in Golden State became the most important developmental period of his career. Working alongside Kerr, Steph Curry, Klay Thompson, Draymond Green, and Kevin Durant, Brown expanded his understanding of offense, player empowerment, and relationship-building. He saw how elite defense could coexist with offensive freedom, ball movement, and creativity. Brown won three championships as an assistant and occasionally stepped in as acting head coach. More importantly, he evolved from a rigid tactician into a more adaptable and collaborative leader.
Steve Kerr has been complimentary of his former assistant. “What Mike has done for me, for this organization in his six years here, he’s made just an incredible contribution. He’s an amazing coach, amazing friend.” He could not, however, convince Steve to join the bald brotherhood, especially after seeing what happened to Carlisle.
Golden State Warriors' Stephen Curry and Mike Brown confer with official in 3rd quarter of Warriors' 119-113 win over Portland Trail Blazers in Game 3 of NBA Western Conference 1st Round Playoffs at Moda Center in Portland, Oregon on Saturday, April 22, 2017. (Photo by Scott Strazzante/San Francisco Chronicle via Getty Images)
From 2020 to 2022, Brown coached the Nigerian men’s national basketball team, the D’Tigers. In the exhibition warm-ups for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, he led the team to a shocking 90-87 upset over Team USA in Las Vegas—marking the first time an African nation had ever defeated the United States in basketball. Despite boasting a roster packed with NBA talent, Nigeria’s subsequent Olympic run ended in the group stage with a 0-3 record. Brown also helmed the team through FIBA AfroBasket 2021 before departing in 2022 to take on a more prestigious gig.
As Kerr knows about the NBA, it’s Biz before Bros. Soon, his top assistant was on the move again, becoming top dog with the Sacramento Kings in 2022. Rather than focusing exclusively on schemes and discipline, Mike emphasized confidence, belief, and culture-building.
“He brought a lot to us and got everyone to buy in from the first day,” said De’Aaron Fox. “He established a good working relationship with the guys. He came in here and told us we were going to be winners, and guys believed in him right from the start.”
Brown’s accountability was equally important. Fox later described a coach who challenged every player regardless of status. “He holds everyone accountable from day one,” Fox said. “It doesn’t matter if you’re an All-Star or the last guy on the bench, he’s going to watch film and call you out if you aren’t defending,” Fox added that Mike was the only adult male he knew who admitted to owning a Baha Men CD.
Brown pushed Fox toward a different level of self-motivation. “You’ve got to figure out how to get to that level without having somebody piss you off,” Brown told him. “Because you’re a great player and great players get to that level on their own.”
<p>LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – FEBRUARY 24: Head coach Mike Brown of the Sacramento Kings celebrates a 176-175 double overtime win over the LA Clippers with Malik Monk #0 and De’Aaron Fox #5 at Crypto.com Arena on February 24, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)</p> | Getty Images
Brown took over a franchise coming off a 30-win season and a 16-year playoff drought. In his first season, Sacramento improved by 18 wins, produced the league’s top offense, and reached the playoffs for the first time since 2006. Brown became the first unanimous NBA Coach of the Year in league history (an award which, if you know Mike’s story, is the kiss of death). His Kings teams played fast, moved the ball, and shattered the perception that he was merely a defensive specialist. Brown’s greatest growth was no longer tactical; it was philosophical. He shifted from trying to control every detail to helping players believe in their potential.
Less than two years later, Sacramento fired Brown following a slow start to the season. The decision stunned the league and further cemented Brown’s reputation as a coach whose accomplishments often went undervalued. Rather than dwelling on another dismissal, Brown kept his rose-colored glasses firmly in place and set his gaze toward orange and blue skies.
My stomach grumbles and I am thinking about buying a sub from Sal’s Market next door. Suddenly, a 2019 Volkswagen Beetle steers into the lot. Not quite a Mini Cooper, but in the ballpark. Could it be Coach Brown? Nervously, I wipe my sweaty palms on my jeans and wait to see who will emerge from the vehicle.
The Boston Celtics officially announced Tuesday the signings of free agent center Mitchell Robinson and guard Mike Conley Jr. And on Monday, they officially announced the Jaylen Brown trade.
Conley reportedly signed a one-year deal, while Robinson reportedly signed a three-year contract worth $47.4 million. The C’s traded Brown to the Philadelphia 76ers in exchange for Paul George, two first-round picks and two second-round picks.
George will wear No. 13 with the Celtics. He also wore No. 13 with the Indiana Pacers, Oklahoma City Thunder and Los Angeles Clippers. George used No. 8 with the Sixers. Ron Harper Jr. wore No. 13 for the C’s last season.
Robinson is going to wear No. 4 with the Celtics. He wore No. 23 with the New York Knicks over the last seven seasons, but in Boston that number is retired for Frank Ramsey.
Previous players to wear No. 4 for the Celtics include Isaiah Thomas, Anfernee Simons, Jrue Holiday, Nate Robinson and Chauncey Billups. It was most recently used by Nikola Vucevic.
Conley is entering his 20th NBA season, and he will wear No. 44 for the C’s.
He has only worn No. 10 and No. 11 in his career so far, but No. 10 in Boston is retired for Jo Jo White and No. 11 is currently worn by Payton Pritchard.
Former players who have worn No. 44 for the Celtics include Robert Williams III, Brian Scalabrine, Danny Ainge, Pete Maravich, Dave Bing and Paul Westphal.
“By the way, breaking news here — LeBron James and Draymond Green are spending some time here together this week,” Charania said on the show. When Stephen A. asked where exactly, Charania simply responded: “Undisclosed location.”
Draymond Green and LeBron James are planning to hang out this week, per @ShamsCharania
The timing is significant. Green opted out of his $27.7 million player option last week specifically to give the Warriors financial flexibility to pursue James — and the two have been close friends throughout their careers despite never playing on the same team. Green’s opt-out widely was viewed as a signal that he was operating with knowledge that James was leaving the Lakers, if not necessarily confirmation that he was heading to the Bay Area.
Charania made clear the Warriors still face a significant hurdle in the James sweepstakes. Golden State’s plan reportedly hinges on packaging a trade for Washington Wizards forward Anthony Davis alongside a James signing — and short of that, Charania does not believe the Warriors are at the top of James’ list.
“The Warriors’ whole plan going into free agency was, let’s see if we can get Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, LeBron James and Anthony Davis,” Charania said. “The big draw for LeBron James with the Warriors would be a package deal. Short of that, I don’t think the Warriors are high on that list — and I think the Warriors believe they’re not high on that list — unless they’re able to go get Anthony Davis.”
Per Charania, the Cavaliers, Heat and 76ers currently represent the top tier of James’ options. Cleveland is viewed as the quiet favorite by most league insiders, while Philadelphia’s acquisition of Jaylen Brown from the Celtics has made the 76ers a legitimate contender for James’ services.
For now, Green and James are somewhere together. Whether that undisclosed location becomes the setting for one of the most consequential recruiting pitches in Warriors history remains to be seen.
