SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - JULY 05: Jayden Quaintance #22 of the San Antonio Spurs looks on during the first half of their 2026 California Classic Summer League game at Chase Center on July 05, 2026 in San Francisco, 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. (Photo by Thien-An Truong/Getty Images) | Getty Images
It was quickly revealed after the San Antonio Spurs selected Jayden Quaintance with the 20th-overall pick that the 19-year-old would require another knee surgery to clean up his meniscus. Today, the Spurs announced that Quaintance has undergone a successful surgery on his right knee. The team will provide more updates as appropriate.
This was a necessary surgery for San Antonio’s rookie, according to On3’s reporting:
Dr. Riley Williams III — head team physician and orthopedic surgeon for the Brooklyn Nets and famous for performing surgery on Paul George’s gruesome open tibia-fibula fracture with USA Basketball in 2014 — gave a second opinion on Quaintance’s injured right knee that limited him to four games in Lexington and recommended a follow-up procedure that could keep him off the floor for six months. The 6-foot-11 prospect’s ACL remains fully intact, and his knee can be maintained at its current state, but a clean-up is preferred for a permanent resolution.
The Spurs will hope that this latest surgery is the one that will allow Quaintance to return to the court in full health. With just about two months to go until training camp, we may not see Quaintance suit up for the Silver and Black to begin the season, but it’s reasonable to think the rookie could come back at some point in the 2026-27 season.
Spurs fans will have to wait to learn more from the team on Quaintance’s status as the offseason progresses. When he does return to action, he’ll give the Spurs a promising defensive prospect in a crowded front court that includes Victor Wembanyama, Luke Kornet, and Tarris Reed Jr.
What the Knicks and Jalen Brunson did en route to the organization's first NBA championship in 53 years was astounding, and it was made more spectacular after it was revealed that the Knicks point guard was playing a portion of the playoffs with an injury that required surgery.
Now, we know when Brunson was injured.
Speaking with ESPN NY Radio's Don, Hahn & Rosenberg on Wednesday, Brunson was asked about the injury. The Knicks captain couldn't pinpoint when he got hurt exactly, but knew he was hurt earlier than many believed.
“I’m good. Obviously, it’s going to take a little bit of time," Brunson said. "There isn’t a play where I remember it happening; I just remember being at the free-throw line in the third or fourth quarter of Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Finals and my wrist is starting to feel weak.
"From that point on, it was just trying to figure out what was going on and how to proceed because I wasn’t going to get anything done during that time."
That game saw Brunson score 19 points in 40 minutes in the Knicks' 109-93 win to take a 2-0 series lead, a series they wound up sweeping. But Brunson would have bigger moments in the NBA Finals. He helped lead the improbable comeback in Game 4 and scored a franchise-record 43 points in Game 5 to clinch the title.
All with an injury to his shooting hand.
SNY's Ian Begley reported that Brunson underwent surgery to repair a left wrist/forearm injury earlier this month and that Brunson is expected to need at least two months for rehab/recovery.
Despite getting injured, Brunson wouldn't trade the experience, especially doing it in New York.
“It’s been a rollercoaster, honestly," Brunson said of life after winning the title. "Once we won and everything, everything was up high…everything after we won was amazing. And then getting back to real life, it was probably best to get surgery done for my wrist. That brought me back down. But I would do it all again."
LAS VEGAS, NV - JULY 13: Ebuka Okorie #23 of the Detroit Pistons drives to the basket during the game against the New York Knicks on July 13, 2026 at the Cox 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 2026 NBAE (Photo by Candice Ward/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
Ebuka Okorie is obviously a talented basketball player with the kind of speed and intuition on how to deploy it that could be a difference-maker in the NBA. We have seen that throughout three games of Summer League so far. We’ve also see him struggle for a healthy dose of minutes. He’s taking a lot shots, and a lot of those shots are ill-advised. Does that even matter? It’s inarguable that he’ll have much better teammates on the real Detroit Pistons than he does on this Summer League team. It’s also true that he simply cannot afford to take these shots in a congested lane surrounded by three players. It’s simply unacceptable. And if it was a real game, I’d like to think it would be easy for him to defer and pass out of trouble. I guess, we will find out when the games really start to matter. Tonight’s game definitely does not matter. But it’s another chance to see Okorie at work.
Game Vitals
When: 6 p.m. ET Where: Thomas & Mack Center, Las Vegas, Nevada Watch: ESPNU
The Lakers entered the free agency period with over $52 million in cap space, but quickly lost financial flexibility after signing Walker Kessler, Sandro Mamukelashvili, Collin Sexton, Kevon Looney and Quentin Grimes.
Jonathan Kuminga wants to join the Lakers, but for the right price. Getty Images
The Lakers have reportedly offered Kuminga a deal where he earns $10 million annually. The team has pitched a star-studded role for Kuminga as a starting wing alongside Luka Doncic, but the current deal would leave the forward earning less than Mamukelashvili and Grimes, who are set to earn $13 million annually.
One of the two players is set to be a bench player.
And thus, Kuminga wants to earn more before joining the Lakers in Tinseltown.
The Lakers have limited avenues to acquire Kuminga, but the Atlanta Hawks are open to a potential sign-and-trade with LA. The California Post’s Khobi Price reports the Hawks are willing to send Kuminga to the Lakers in exchange for Jarred Vanderbilt and the Lakers’ 2032 first-round pick swap.
After an active first 48 hours in free agency, the Lakers have since made little noise on the market. While Pelinka’s challenge is to find a creative way to sign Kuminga, it’s evident the Lakers roster remains incomplete as it stands.
The stakes for Kawhi Leonard appear far greater than previously understood as the NBA navigates an unprecedented case with potentially career-altering consequences.
According to ESPN insider Shams Charania, Leonard himself could face punishment ranging from a substantial suspension to the most severe possible outcome: having his contract voided.
Kawhi Leonard could face a long suspension or a voided contract as the Los Angeles Clippers investigation targets a summer resolution. NBAE via Getty Images
“The absolute worst is Kawhi Leonard’s contract being voided, or him being suspended for a significant period of time,” Charania said on the “Shump Street” podcast. “Whether it’s 20, 40 games or the entire season, it all comes down to the evidence and what’s found in the investigation.”
The league’s inquiry began with Leonard’s reported $28 million endorsement agreement with Aspiration, an environmental company in which Clippers owner Steve Ballmer invested heavily.
Leonard was traded to the Raptors a few weeks ago, but that trade is on hold until the investigation is complete. Getty Images
The investigation has since reportedly expanded. According to The Athletic, the outside law firm handling the case has examined whether the Clippers paid certain expenses for Leonard without being reimbursed and whether he had another previously undisclosed endorsement agreement.
Commissioner Adam Silver clarified that the NBA did not block the transaction, but said both teams understood the investigation would continue. AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura
No finding of wrongdoing has been announced, and Leonard has denied participating in any effort to circumvent the salary cap. The Clippers have also repeatedly denied funneling money to their star through Aspiration.
Charania stressed that Leonard’s punishment would depend on whether investigators uncover evidence showing he knowingly participated in an improper arrangement. If the inquiry finds wrongdoing by the organization but cannot connect Leonard directly, the league could focus its penalties on the Clippers instead.
The uncertainty has already affected Leonard’s basketball future.
The Clippers and Raptors reportedly agreed to pause a potential trade because Toronto would inherit the risk of any punishment attached to Leonard. Commissioner Adam Silver clarified that the NBA did not block the transaction, but said both teams understood the investigation would continue regardless of where Leonard played.
Silver expects the independent review to conclude this summer.
Until then, Leonard remains caught between a possible return to Toronto and penalties that could range from manageable to career-altering.
As Charania made clear, everything now depends on what investigators can prove.
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LAS VEGAS, NV - JULY 15: Labaron Philon #00 of the Philadelphia 76ers drives to the basket during the game against the Orlando Magic on July 15, 2026 at the Thomas & Mack Center 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 2026 NBAE (Photo by Tom O'Connor/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
The Summer League Sixers fell just short of a 30-point comeback, falling 99-92 to the Orlando Magic Wednesday afternoon. At 2-2, their chances at the Summer League title are over. They’ll play one more consolation game that has yet to be announced.
Labaron Philon Jr., going cold for the first time this summer, finished with 15 points shooting 7-of-24 from the field along with six assists and four turnovers. Duke Miles put up 15 as well but shot 6-of-9 from the floor along with three assists. Amani Lyles finished with 18 points and six rebounds on 7-of-12 shooting while Jase Richardson led all scorers with 25. Johni Broome was unavailable for this one.
This game at least started drastically different than the Sixers’ previous outing. They were able to hit Philon up ahead with a pass off the opening tip for a layup. Despite getting some open looks, his jumper wasn’t falling for him as easily as it had been as he missed his next eight shots. He finally got one to go as the first quarter was winding down, but his follow up attempt got wedgied in between the backboard.
Orlando on the other hand got off to a torrid start, making eight of their first nine shots following Richardson’s lead. The pull-up jumpers he nailed early set the tone as the Magic shot 69% from the field in the first half. The 12 Sixers’ turnovers also helped the Magic get out to an early double-digit lead they held for most of the night. Philon was responsible for three of them.
Philon appeared to find a rhythm when he hit some midranges off the dribble in the third quarter, but he could not buy a three ball on the night.
Unike the game before, the Sixers were able to work a 30-point lead all the way down to single digits as the second half wore on. They did so thanks to a better shooting night from Miles. He also made some flashy plays in transition with Lyles, who was able to bang around in the post to put up another solid stat line. Dante Maddox Jr. wasn’t able to even out his 4-of-13 shooting line, but he scored 14 of his 15 points in the second half.
Two consecutive steals into layups were followed by two more threes, allowing the Sixers to cut the lead to four with a minute and a half remaining. Richardson was able to get a bucket to stop the bleeding. Maddox nearly buried a three to make it a one-possession game, but it rimmed out and the Magic were able to hold on despite a noble second-half effort from the bunch.
Before we put this Summer League to rest, let’s just take a moment to appreciate the old Sixers’ friends on this Orlando Summer League roster. There’s Ricky Council IV, Lester Quinones, Colin Castleton, and Philip Wheeler, who didn’t even have a Wikipedia page when the Sixers signed him late in 2025. Wheeler has averaged 18 a game this summer on 50% shooting — good for him! All four of these guys had parts to play in the Sixers’ 2025 tank that landed them VJ Edgecombe.
Now they may be learning that the feeling is not entirely mutual.
Shams Charania says Cleveland, Miami and Philadelphia are the focus in LeBron James’ free agency, leaving Golden State on edge. Getty Images
ESPN insider Shams Charania reported that Cleveland, Miami and Philadelphia have become the primary focus of James’ free-agency decision, noticeably excluding Golden State from the group receiving the most attention.
The Warriors have not been formally eliminated. Charania said the previously identified contenders remain involved, but his updated wording represents a potentially ominous shift only days after he listed Golden State among James’ leading suitors.
Shams Charania commentates during the 2026 NBA Draft NBAE via Getty Images
For a franchise waiting on the 41-year-old before completing its roster, the distinction matters.
Other reports suggested Green’s lobbying had caused James to give the Warriors stronger consideration. Charania’s latest update, however, indicates that Cleveland, Miami and Philadelphia may have gained separation as the decision approaches.
Golden State cannot wait forever.
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LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers handles the ball during the game against the Golden State Warriors NBAE via Getty Images
General manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. said during Tuesday’s Summer League game that the Warriors are “getting close to finalizing the roster” and are looking forward to reaching the finish line.
That comment can now be interpreted in two very different ways.
Perhaps Dunleavy knows James is nearing a decision and believes the Warriors remain positioned to land the biggest remaining prize. Or perhaps Golden State has seen enough to suspect James is heading elsewhere and is preparing to finish its offseason without him.
The Warriors have already retained several veterans and can offer James the $15 million non-taxpayer midlevel exception. Their pitch includes Curry, Green, Steve Kerr, championship experience, proximity to Los Angeles and enough prestigious golf courses to keep James occupied between games.
But their advantage was always access, not certainty.
Curry and Green have made their calls. The front office has delivered its plan. James has reportedly heard from the league’s owners, executives and players and now possesses the information needed to choose his next team.
The Warriors are still waiting.
They just may no longer be near the front of the line.
LAS VEGAS, NV - JULY 13: Darius Brown II #45 of the Phoenix Suns dribbles the ball during the game against the Milwaukee Bucks on July 13, 2026 at the Cox 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 2026 NBAE (Photo by Stephen Greathouse/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
LAS VEGAS, NV - JULY 14: Darius Acuff Jr. #5 of the Sacramento Kings shoots a free throw during the game against the Brooklyn Nets on July 14, 2026 at the Thomas & Mack Center 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 2026 NBAE (Photo by Stephen Greathouse/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
Boston Celtics (2-1) at Sacramento Kings (1-2) Wednesday, July 15, 2026 8:00 PM ET Summer League Game #4 TV: NBCSB, ESPN 2 Thomas and Mack Center
The Kings have played 3 games together in the California Summer League where they went 3-0, beating Brooklyn 79-76, Golden State 91-85 and Milwaukee 95-89. They have also played 3 games in the Las Vegas Summer League, going 1-2, beating the Clippers 91-85 and losing to Washington 104-85 and to Brooklyn 115-83. They are playing in the 2nd of back to back games while the Celtics had Tuesday off. The Celtics have played just 3 games together.
The Celtics are coached by Amile Jefferson. Jefferson was named Director of Player Development for the Duke Blue Devils in 2021. He was promoted to assistant coach at Duke for the 2022-23 season. In 2023, Jefferson became an assistant coach for the Boston Celtics under head coach Joe Mazzulla. Jefferson played with Jayson Tatum at Duke and he played for the Celtics on an Exhibit 10 contract before being hired as an assistant coach.
The Kings are coached by Chris Darnell. He began his coaching career as a Video Coordinator for the Cavaliers from 2019-2021. From 2021-24, he was the associate head coach for the Cleveland Charge of the G-League. He served as the head coach for the Charge in the 2024-25 season. He has been an assistant coach for the Kings since 2025.
The Celtics are averaging 41.0 rebounds per game while the Kings are averaging 34.7 rebounds per game. The Celtics need to continue to crash the boards and beat the Kings to rebounds. The Celtics are turning the ball over 18 times per game while the Kings are averaging 19.7 turnovers per game. It’s not unusual for Summer League teams to turn the ball over a lot because of limited playing time together and surprising that the Kings are turning it over more with 3 extra games under their belts.
Neither team is shooting the ball very well, but the Celtics were able to play enough defense to get wins in 2 games. The Celtics are shooting 37.2% from the field and 32.4% from beyond the arc. The Kings are shooting 40.8% from the field and 28.7% from beyond the arc. The Celtics need to continue to play good defense while working on improving their shooting.
Dillon Mitchell will reportedly sit out this game for rest. Tucker DeVries and Milos Uzan have both been signed to Exhibit 10 contracts that will give them the opportunity to play in training camp with the Celtics. DeVries started Monday’s game and is averaging 11 points, 1 rebound and 1.5 assists while shooting 41.8% from the field and 40.3% from beyond the arc. Uzan is averaging 8 points, 4.3 rebounds and 5 assists while shooting 32% from the field and 30.8% beyond the arc.
Celtics Summer League Roster Mohammad Amini #54 R Chris Cenac, Jr #12 R Tucker DeVries #41 R Hugo Gonzalez #28 1 Caleb Grill #37 R Curtis Jones #26 R Kyle Mangas #43 R Dillon Mitchell #20 R Hank Morgan #51 R Nick Pringle #40 R Day Day Thomas #38 R John Tonje #8 R Milos Uzan #29 R Chauncey Wiggins #50 R Alondes Williams #46 3 Amari Williams #77 1
Head Coach Amile Jefferson
Starters in 1st 2 games Curtis Jones, John Tonje, Hugo Gonzalez, Dillon Mitchell, and Amari Williams Starters in 3rd game Curtis Jones, John Tonje, Tucker DeVries, Dillon Mitchell, and Chris Cenac, Jr
Celtics Players to Watch
Hugo Gonzalez | Getty Images
Hugo Gonzalez – Hugo was the 28th pick in last year’s draft. In last year’s Summer League, he averaged 10.8 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 2.8 assists. He averaged 3.9 points and 3.3 rebounds in 14 minutes per game last season. His +11.9 rating was the highest for any rookie that played at least 100 minutes. So far in Summer League he is averaging 15.5 points, 7 rebounds, 6 assists and 2 steals per game while shooting 23.1% from the field and 22.2% from beyond the arc. He shot better in Game 2 than Game 1 but still needs some improvement in that area. He sat out the Celtics 3rd game but I’m expecting him to play in this one.
Chris Cenac, Jr – Cenac was the 27th pick in this year’s draft. He is 19 years old and was a highly recruited center going into his one season at Houston. He averaged 9.5 points and 7.9 rebounds in college, while shooting 48% from the field, 33% from beyond the arc and 62% from the line. He has a combination of size and athleticism that makes him a very intriguing player. He is averaging 10.7 points, 6.7 rebounds, 1 assist and 3 blocks while shooting 36.4% from the field and 25% from beyond the arc.
John Tonje – Tonje came to the Celtics as a 2-way player from Utah in the Chris Boucher trade at last year’s deadline. At the end of last season, his contract was converted to a standard contract. His option wasn’t picked up this season but the way he has played in Summer League, he is earning at least a 2 way contract again. He has started all 3 games so far and is averaging 14 points, 4 rebounds, 1 assist, and 1.7 steals while shooting 43.8% from the field and 47.4% from beyond the arc. Amari Williams – Amari was the 46th pick in last year’s draft. He spent most of last season on a 2-way deal but was converted to a standard contract at the end of last season. He averaged 1.4 points, and 1.8 rebounds in 6.6 minutes with Boston last year. He averaged 15.8 points, 10.9 rebounds, 4.9 assists and 1.8 blocks with Maine last season. He has already been signed to a 2-way contract for this season. He is averaging 14.5 points, 9 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 3 blocks while shooting 64.3% from the field with no 3’s. Sacramento Kings Roster Nique Clifford #0 1 year Darius Acuff, Jr #5 R Adam Flagler #20 2 years Jonathan Mogbo #22 2 years Isaiah Stevens #24 2 years Mitch Mascari #25 R Elias Ralph #26 R Viktor Lakhin #30 R Dylan Cardwell #32 1 year Alex Karaban #33 R Emanuel Sharp #34 R Anthony Dell’Orso #37 R Maxime Raynaud #42 1 year Marquel Sutton #49 R BJ Edwards #50 R
Kings Starters Game 1 Darius Acuff, Jr, Nique Clifford, Jonathan Mogbo, Dylan Cardwell, and Alex Karaban
Kings Starters Game 2 Darius Acuff, Jr, Nique Clifford, Alex Karaban, Dylan Cardwell, and Maxime Raynaud
Kings Starters Game 3 Darius Acuff, Jr, Nique Clifford, Alex Karaban, Maxime Raynaud, and Dylan Cardwell Kings Players to Watch
Maxime Raynaud | Getty Images
Maxime Raynaud – Raynaud was the 42nd pick in the 2025 draft. He played 4 years at Stanford and averaged 20.1 points and 10.9 rebounds in his senior year. He was named to the 1st team all ACC and became 1 of only 3 players to average at least 20 points, 10 rebounds and 50 3-pointers in a season. The other 2 were Kevin Durant and Carmelo Anthony. Last season he averaged 12.5 points, 7.5 rebounds and 1.4 assists while shooting 57.1% from the field and 32.4% from beyond the arc. In Summer League he is averaging 20 points, 12 rebounds, 2 steals and 1 block while shooting 46.7% from the field and 40% from beyond the arc.
Darius Acuff, Jr – Acuff was the 7th pick in this year’s draft. He won the Bob Cousy award for point guards, and was the SEC Player of the Year and Rookie of the Year. He averaged 23 points and 6.6 assists in his senior year. He has been compared by some to Allen Iverson. In Summer League he is averaging 15.5 points, 2 rebounds, 5.5 assists, 1 steal, and 1 block while shooting 29.4% from the field and 23.1% from beyond the arc. Nique Clifford – Clifford was the 24th pick in the 2025 draft by the Thunder and was traded to the Kings on Draft night. He was a 4 year college player and averaged 12.2 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 3 assists in his senior year. This is his 2nd Summer League. He averaged 8.6 points, 3.8 rebounds and 2.4 assists as a rookie. In Summer League, he is averaging 15 points, 3.5 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 1.5 steals while shooting 42.9% from the field and 33.3% from beyond the arc.
Emanuel Sharp – Sharp is an Israel-American player. He was the 45th pick in the 2026 draft. He was a 4 year college player at Houston. In his senior year, he averaged 15.5 points, 3 rebounds, 1.7 assists and 1.2 steals. He made Big 12 First Team and Big 12 All Defense team. In Summer League, he is averaging 14 points, 2 rebounds and 2.5 blocks per game while shooting 33.3% from the field and 28.6% from beyond the arc.
PHILADELPHIA, PA - APRIL 24: The sneakers worn by Paul George #8 of the Philadelphia 76ers during the game against the Boston Celtics during Round One Game Three of the 2026 NBA Playoffs on April 24, 2026 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 2026 NBAE (Photo by David Dow/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
Jun 28, 2026; New York City, New York, USA; New York Knicks forward OG Anunoby throws out the first pitch before the game between the New York Mets and the Philadelphia Phillies at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: John Jones-Imagn Images | John Jones-Imagn Images
On Friday, the hand heard ‘round the five boroughs and the larger body it belongs to turn 29 years old. In a stunning bit of coincidence, I offer thee a list of reasons to love OG Anunoby even more than you probably already do if you’re reading this. Then again, you could be a Spurs fan; there’s been a lot more cross-pollination between P&T and Pounding The Rock since last month’s NBA Finals.
If you are a Spurs fan, quit talking about how you “actually should’ve” won the Finals. San Antonio owned the first quarters. The Knicks owned the other three. If you’re a fan of the side that wins actual trophies and not made-up analytical ones, enjoy this medium-dive into the Knick who puts the “Ohhhhh” in “jumbo wing.”
1) When the Knicks acquired Anunoby, one of the biggest question marks was his availability. OG had played in 89% of Toronto’s games his first three seasons, but missed a combined 49 games the following two. The Knicks were trading away two younger players in Immanuel Quickley and RJ Barrett, and would have to extend Anunoby that summer. Was the gamble on talent worth the depth being lost?
Spoiler: God, yes. Interestingly, since missing more than a month with an inflamed elbow that first abbreviated season in New York, Anunoby’s played in 86% of the Knicks’ games. Meanwhile, Quickley and RJ have played in 62% and 69% of the Raptors’, both respectively and niiiiiiice.
2) Last season, Anunoby’s free throws made per 36 minutes were up 25%. That’s pretty good! What change are YOU proudest of in 2026?
3) “Adjusted shooting” includes eight categories that measure an NBA player against a theoretical average: field-goal percentage, 2-point shooting, 3-point shooting, free throw, effective field goal, true shooting, free-throw attempt rate and 3-point attempt rate. 100 is average, anything above 100 above-average and you can take it from there. Only one Knick was above-average from all eight categories. You guessed it. The birthday boy.
4) Every postseason, the NHL awards the Conn Smythe Trophy to that year’s top playoff performer. The NBA doesn’t. If it did, last year’s Conn Smythe winner would’ve been OG. Over 17 playoff games, he averaged 20 points, six rebounds and 2.5 stocks on 56/49/85 shooting. You probably remember, but I’m not even a little tired of repeating it. And honestly, he looks better on the mound than half the Mets starters, too.
5) Another way of numerically translating OG’s playoff heroics: his postseason player efficiency rating was 23.8. That would have ranked seventh in the regular-season, behind only Nikola Jokić, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Victor Nostradumbass, Luka Dončić, Kawhi Leonard and Jalen Duren. They say under the new CBA Big Threes have gone the way of the polar bear — extinct*. Jalen Brunson was as ruthless a Finals MVP as any guard we’ve seen. Karl-Anthony Towns was a Long Island iced tea of novel dominance, 3-point shooting like Dirk, facilitating like Joker, driving like Giannis, rebounding like Moses Malone and defending like Patrick Ewing. On top of those two, OG played at an MVP-level on both sides of the ball for two months. If that’s not a Big Three, there never was such a thing.
*I know, not yet. But soon enough.
6) You already know OG is a great defensive player. Two-time All-NBA All-Defense, in 2023 and this past season. Not only is his defensive disruption remarkable, so is its longevity: Anunoby is one of only three players who were All-Defense both seasons, three years apart. Can you guess the other two? I’ll give the answer at the end.
7) There is a stat under “per 100 possessions” called “defensive rating.” Last year OG’s was 112, while KAT’s was 110. In the playoffs Anunoby’s fell, but Towns’ rating led all playoff performers, period. I don’t know what “defensive rating” measures, but it seems like some B.S.
8) Anunoby had more than 100 dunks and 100 3-pointers last season. How cool is that? If rarity is your kink, it’s pretty hot. There were only two other players in the entire Association to do both. Any guesses?
LeBron James did neither, though came surprisingly closer to reaching 100 dunks (97) than 3s (77). I thought Jaylen Brown was a shoo-in, but he doesn’t even have 100 dunks the past two seasons combined. SGA only dunked 20 times last year. Chet Holmgren (12 dunks away from 100/100) and Kel’el Ware (eight dunks) were the close-but-no-cigar runners-up. You’ve probably already guessed Wembanyama is one of the answers. The other? Well, it isn’t the clip I’d hoped to use, but Trey Murphy III has enough money to hire a social media team. Get your people on Bluesky, yo.
Anunoby was 100/100 in 2026 and 2025. How cool/rare/hot is that? As far as what I can find in Knicks history — which only records dunks as far back as 1996-97 — it’s unprecedented. Not only had no Knick ever done it two years in a row, none did before OG period.
Towns managed the feat twice in Minnesota, back when he was still a kitten; his Knick high for dunks in a season is 76. When you start going back over the years, you realize there aren’t a ton of candidates. Julius Randle made the longballs, but never dunked more than 62 times in a year here. RJ Barrett? 40. Carmelo Anthony ‘s Knick season-high was 34. Young Melo, in his early Denver days, was more spry than you may recall. Even had a couple years early with over 150 dunks, a mark I was stunned to learn LeBron never reached once. But these were still the early 2000s; Anthony wouldn’t break the century-mark for treys in a campaign until the magical 2013 season.
Kristaps Porziņģis’ Knickerbocker peak was 78 dunks his sophomore year. I scraped every player I could think of slamming and splashing. Donte DiVincenzo only dunked 20 times in 2024. JR Smith’s Knick-best was 26. Latrell Sprewell’s was 29. If they’d tracked dunks earlier in Patrick Ewing’s career he’d have had multiple seasons with more than 100; alas, the Big Fella only made 27 3s all-time, regular-season and playoffs combined. Though I’d be remiss not to point out Ewing seemingly swished each and every one.
What was this about again? Oh yeah. Merry born day, OG! Deservedly, you need never pay for a meal in this town again. On the other hand, if wealth disparity weighs at all on your soul, you could afford to spring for your fellow New Yorkers every now and then.
*The other players who were All-Defense in 2023 and 2026: Bam Adebayo and Derrick White.
A year ago, there were reports that Jonas Valanciunas wanted to negotiate a buyout with Denver so he could sign with Greek side Panathinaikos, except that the Nuggets didn't want to let their primary backup to Nikola Jokic walk.
Valanciunas played more than 1,000 NBA games across 14 seasons, averaging 12.8 points and nine rebounds a game in his career. Last season, in 65 games with the Nuggets, averaged 8.7 points and 5.1 rebounds a night.
Denver moved on and signed Marvin Bagley III to fill the Jokic backup role next season. While Valanciunas spoke to several NBA teams about a return, it was always expected he would return to Europe for next season.
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 25: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers shakes hands with Draymond Green #23 of the Golden State Warriors after the Lakers defeated the Warriors 118-108 at Chase Center on January 25, 2025 in San Francisco, 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. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NCAA. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Golden State fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.
The Golden State Warriors have, rather openly, been involved in the LeBron James sweepstakes ever since the NBA’s all-time leading scorer opened the offseason by announcing that he would not return to the Los Angeles Lakers. The Dubs have made their pitches, while Steph Curry has spoken publicly about how much fun it would be to welcome James into the fold, and Draymond Green has spent time vacationing and golfing with the once rival.
But while James is undoubtedly one of the best players in NBA history — and the best, in the eyes of many — opinions about him remain mixed, particularly at this stage of his career. And with the Warriors already aging and injury prone, many people don’t feel like James is a great fit, despite his numbers last season (20.9 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 7.2 assists per game).
So we’re asking you, Dub Nation: how would you feel about LeBron joining the Warriors as both sides go for one final run?
SAN FRANCISCO, CA - JULY 5: Adou Thiero #1, Anton Watson #41, and Cameron Carr #43 of the Los Angeles Lakers speak after the California Classic Game on July 5, 2026 at Chase Center in San Francisco, 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 Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Noah Graham/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via 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.
With three straight wins in Las Vegas after consecutive wins to close the California Classic, the Lakers are have quickly become a fun watch during Summer League.
While results don’t matter as much in these competitions, what is important is that the key players on the roster impress. The Lakers have gotten that as well.
Adou Thiero is entering his second year and is playing like it in Summer League as he’s punishing the rim with monster dunks in virtually every game. Thiero has scored in double figures in every contest in Las Vegas and had his best game against the Thunder, tallying 20 points in the win.
Whether the Lakers win it all in Las Vegas or not, the fact that the two players on the main roster have played so well makes this Summer League a success.
For our SB Nation Reacts survey this week, we ask, which player are fans more excited about, Carr or Thiero?
Excited is an interesting word. It doesn’t necessarily mean who you think is better, but which player you are most looking forward to watching.
Thiero is certainly an exciting player. Anyone can watch him attack the rim and understand how special it is. Considering he appears to be more in control of his incredible athleticism, he could not only be the most exciting player on the Lakers but also earn an increased role on a team looking for his youth and athleticism.
If even part of Thiero’s Summer League game translates to the regular season, his second year will be better than his first.
As for Carr, he is less known, which makes him exciting. Right now, nearly all the film of him in a Lakers jersey is encouraging. His shot is so pure and he’s scoring with ease.
He’s a bit light but is planning to spend time in the weight room to bulk up. Also, he’s already proving to be a willing defender with at least one block in four of the five Summer League games he’s played in.
After these Summer League performances, Lakers fans likely believe Carr was the steal of the draft and will be even more excited for his official debut.
Who are you most excited about? Let us know by participating in the poll above and in the comments section below.
Mike Dunleavy Jr. may have offered the latest clue in the LeBron James free agency mystery — or simply confirmed the Warriors are already prepared to move on without him.
Speaking during Golden State’s summer league game, the Warriors general manager said the franchise is nearing the end of its offseason work.
Mike Dunleavy says the Warriors are close to finalizing their roster, fueling fresh speculation about LeBron James. Lea Suzuki/San Francisco Chronicle via AP
“I think we’re getting close to finalizing the roster here,” Dunleavy said. “So we’re looking forward to that finish point.”
Naturally, one routine front-office update immediately became LeBron tea.
LeBron James (23) and Steph Curry would be an intriguing combination for the Warriors. Getty Images
That makes Dunleavy’s wording difficult to ignore. If the Warriors are waiting on James as their final major piece, “getting close” could suggest the organization believes his decision is imminent — and perhaps that Golden State remains firmly involved.
It could also mean the exact opposite.
Recent reporting from Shams Charania indicated that James’ focus has shifted toward the Cavaliers, Heat and 76ers. Dunleavy may simply know Golden State cannot hold the rest of its offseason hostage much longer.
The Warriors are hoping for a run at another title for Steph Curry (right). NBAE via Getty Images
Should James choose another destination, Golden State could pivot toward a veteran alternative or enter the season largely with what it has.
James and Draymond Green (right) reportedly have chatted about joining forces. Getty Images
For a franchise supposedly nearing the finish line, there are several rather important blanks left to fill.
The Warriors know Stephen Curry’s championship window is closing, which is why pairing him with LeBron James carries so much appeal. James would not simply add another superstar; he would give Golden State the secondary playmaker it lacked last season.
With James handling more creation, Curry could spend additional possessions moving without the ball, where his shooting becomes even more dangerous. Few players manipulate defenses and locate shooters coming off screens better than James, and no shooter punishes those openings more ruthlessly than Curry.
Stephen Curry #30 (2nd from left) of the Golden State Warriors reacts on the bench during the second half of an NBA play-in tournament game against the Phoenix Suns Getty Images
A lineup featuring James, Curry and Draymond Green would also possess an extraordinary level of basketball intelligence. All three understand spacing, angles and defensive coverages, making them natural fits for Golden State’s pass-and-cut system. James could initiate the offense, attack mismatches and push the ball in transition without dominating every possession.
The arrangement would benefit him, too. Rather than carrying an offense for nearly 40 minutes a night, James could lean on Curry, Green and Al Horford, allowing Golden State to preserve him for the postseason.
United States forward LeBron James and guard Stephen Curry celebrate after the game against Serbia in a men’s basketball semifinal during the Paris 2024 Olympic Summer Games USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
Chemistry is not theoretical. James and Curry repeatedly closed games together while leading Team USA to gold at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Curry has since taken his recruiting pitch public, saying on Good Morning America that Golden State could allow James to finish his career “the right way.”
“The Bay, we know how to win, it’s beautiful weather, great golf, and I know he’s into that,” Curry said.
The concerns are even more obvious. Age and durability loom large with all the principal pieces having missed significant time last season.
Golden State can offer James smart teammates with existing chemistry, championship experience and a natural basketball fit. The gamble is whether its decorated veterans can remain healthy long enough to give Curry and James one final title run.
But Dunleavy’s comment does not reveal whether Golden State is preparing a LeBron jersey or closing the door.
It only confirms the waiting game is almost over — one way or another.
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