There’s no doubt that Luka Doncic is one of the most influential international players the NBA has ever seen. Every time he whips a no-look pass through traffic, or shoots a fadeaway three-pointer while falling out of bounds the crowd erupts.
But the reaction is just part of the story. And according to a new study, Doncic isn’t even the most influential international player in the NBA today.
Doncic finished with the highest positive fan sentiment rating and ranked No. 2 overall behind only the Bucks’ Giannis Antetokounmpo. MediaNews Group via Getty Images
A new study from Betsson ranked Doncic as the second most popular and influential basketball player from Europe over the last five years.
The study ranked the best European basketball players based off of their team’s winning percentages, global popularity, and positive fan sentiment on social media. The dataset was from 2020 to 2025, and included Google Search volume.
Giannis finished atop the rankings with a staggering overall score of 96.66 out of 100 behind a 61.9% win percentage, massive global search traffic and a social media positivity score of 61%.
Doncic was second, posting a 57.2% win rate while generating more than 368,000 monthly Google searches. More telling was Doncic’s 62% positive fan sentiment rating, the highest among every player listed in the study.
Doncic recently finished fourth in the NBA MVP voting and did not receive a single first-place vote. He’s the first NBA scoring leader to not receive a single first-place vote since James Harden in 2020. Many fans are outraged by that fact and believe it’s partly due to his unpopularity among other fanbases. But his positive fan sentiment rating in this study would say otherwise.
Three-time NBA MVP and 2023 NBA Champion Nikola Jokic finished third, while Victor Wembanyama landed fourth thanks to his exploding popularity despite a lower team win percentage that’s sure to change over the next five years.
Are American Superstars Washed? See poll below. International players have now won 8 MVP's in a row. pic.twitter.com/XNUxq5n7ci
Other notable players on the list included Kristaps Porzingis, Rudy Gobert, Lauri Markkanen, Domantas Sabonis, Ivica Zubac, and Deni Avdija.
Every player on the list has become a household name, not only winning on the court, but sparking conversations worldwide off the court.
As noted by the graphic below, international players are dominating the NBA landscape like never before. The last eight NBA MVP winners have been international players. That trend looks like it’s going to continue as Doncic enters his prime and Wembanyama continues his rise in the sport on both sides of the ball.
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Spurs star center Victor Wembanyama felt some type of way going into his Western Conference finals debut after losing out on NBA MVP honors to Oklahoma City Thunder’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
After putting up playoff career highs in points (41) and rebounds (24), Wembanyama said it was personal for him when asked about Gilgeous-Alexander after San Antonio’s 122-115 double-overtime road victory Monday night in Game 1 against Oklahoma City.
“Was that in your mind at all knowing that Shai had gotten that award and you were in the top three for it — and did any part of tonight feel personal, some of your facial expressions kind of looked like you were really going for it,” Wembanyama was asked in his post-game press conference.
“Yeah, for sure, everything you just said,” Wembanyama said.
The French phenom did not elaborate further.
Gilgeous-Alexander was named MVP for the second straight year Sunday, beating out Wembanyama and Denver’s three-time MVP Nikola Jokic.
Wembanyama used it as motivation for his historic Game 1 showing — highlighted by monster dunks and the occasional muscle flex.
His deep game-tying 3-pointer with 28 seconds left in the first overtime forced a second extra stanza.
Wembanyama’s 41 points and 24 rebounds put him in elite company, joining Wilt Chamberlain as the only players to tally 40-plus points and 20-plus rebounds in their Conference finals debut.
Victor Wembanyama celebrates after a Game 1 win over the Thunder in the Western Conference finals on May 18, 2026 at Paycom Center. NBAE via Getty Images
He also recorded three blocks.
Spurs rookie guard Dylan Harper had 24 points, 11 rebounds, six assists and seven steals, and also made playoff history.
Harper, a Franklin Lakes, N.J. native, became the first rookie to notch 15-plus points, five-plus rebounds and five-plus steals in a playoff game since Magic Johnson in 1980.
Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) lifts the MVP award before Game 1. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
Gilgeous-Alexander, meanwhile, had an off night and vowed he will be better after scoring 24 points on an inefficient 7-of-23 shooting performance, including 2-of-7 from 3.
The Kings and the Warriors officially have set their sights on the 2026 NBA Draft to bolster their rosters following their disappointing seasons.
Sacramento and Golden State didn’t have much luck during the draft lottery, with the Kings dropping to the No. 7 pick and the Warriors standing pat with their No. 11 selection.
Following the NBA combine, ESPN dropped its latest 2026 mock draft projecting who Sacramento and Golden State will select with their respective picks.
Listed at 6-foot-2, 183 pounds, Flemings makes a lot of sense for a Kings team that’s looking to find a true starting point guard.
“The Kings drew a short straw on lottery night but will have an opportunity to address their need for a point guard at this spot, with Acuff frequently tied to them, and Flemings and Mikel Brown Jr. also potentially still on the board,” ESPN’s Jeremy Woo wrote.
“In what order Sacramento prioritizes those players — and whether they value Acuff enough to consider moving up to get him — remains to be seen, but it was a point of speculation from other teams at the combine.”
Sacramento has not had a consistent, young starting point guard since trading away star De’Aaron Fox to the San Antonio Spurs.
Despite his small size, Flemings can be a viable option at point guard thanks to his explosiveness, athleticism, and defensive ability. In 37 appearances with the Houston Cougars last season, the San Antonio native averaged 16.1 points, 5.2 assists and 1.5 steals per game.
With Kings coach Doug Christie’s defensive-minded approach, Flemings seems to be a solid fit for a team looking to bring playoff basketball back to Sacramento.
11. Golden State Warriors: Brayden Burries, SG, Arizona
With major injuries to wings Jimmy Butler and Moses Moody, the Warriors will have a glaring hole entering the 2026-27 NBA season. At 6-foot-4, 205 pounds, Burries could slide in as an impactful combo guard in Golden State.
“Burries is drawing looks inside the top 10, but could also end up being the guard who falls,” Woo wrote. “He would be a solid fit for the Warriors in this scenario. His dimensions will play up better on the ball than at the two, but his sturdy build should also help him defend wings.
“The fact he’s a year older than some of the other freshmen and somewhat caught between positions based on tools makes him more of a back-half lottery option.”
In 39 games for the Arizona Wildcats last season, the Southern California native averaged 16.1 points, 4.9 rebounds and 1.5 steals per game and shot 49.1 percent from the field and 39.1 percent from 3-point range.
With Steve Kerr officially returning as Warriors coach alongside stars Steph Curry and Draymond Green, Burries could become one of the pieces Golden State needs to rejuvenate its roster and get younger as a team.
In the process, Wembanyama became the youngest player in NBA history (22 years, 134 days) to score at least 40 points and grab at least 20 rebounds in a playoff game.
Victor Wembanyama stats in Game 1
In the double-overtime win over the top-seeded Thunder, Victor Wembanyama was on the court for the most minutes he's ever played in an NBA game. And his stat line might not even do him justice.
Would he play another season? And would it be with the Los Angeles Lakers?
ESPN NBA insider Shams Charania was asked on “The Pat McAfee Show” what the future holds for James.
“Every contender” is inquiring about LeBron James, according to ESPN. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
“I do know a lot of teams are calling him and his camp,” Charania said. “I spoke with Rich Paul the other day at the Chicago Draft Combine last week and he told me like every contender in the NBA is essentially since the season ended, placed a call.”
With interest in the four-time MVP simmering, James still has to determine whether or not a move will happen.
If he decides to return for his 23rd season, he will be 41 years old. Father time is slowly chasing him down, but James is still competing at a high level. He finished last season averaging 21 points and 6.7 rebounds per game.
With Luka Doncic missing the entire postseason and Austin Reaves the start of the postseason, James still guided the Lakers past the Rockets in the first round before running into the juggernaut defending champs.
Shams says EVERY contender team has called to ask about LeBron
But still showing he can play at a productive level this late into his career, Charania said that James needs more time with his family and inner circle to discuss his future.
“I don’t think anyone would hold it against him. But I think the expectation has been that probably you’re gonna get one more and we’ll see if he’s gonna be with the Lakers or somewhere else,” Charania said.
While teams are reaching out, Charania noted that the Lakers would still like to keep James in the building as they are chasing down their 18th championship in franchise history.
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PHOENIX, ARIZONA - APRIL 07: Dillon Brooks #3 of the Phoenix Suns reacts during the second half of the NBA game at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 07, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. 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 Christian Petersen/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Welcome to our Phoenix Suns Season in Review series, where we revisit every player who suited up during the 2025–26 campaign through the lens of expectation, reality, and what it ultimately meant.
Player Snapshot
Position: SF/PF
Age: 30
2026-27 Contract Status: $20.0 million
SunsRank (Preseason): 3
SunsRank (Postseason): 2
*SunsRank is based on Bright Side writers’ ranking.
Season in One Sentence
Dillon Brooks provided the exact edge and high-intensity defensive resistance that Phoenix desperately needed, even if his occasional boundary-testing on offense left the coaching staff pulling their hair out.
The ask was simple, at least on paper. Give Devin Booker a break from the toughest nightly assignments. Bring physicality to a wing rotation that had been getting pushed around for two years. Hit enough corner threes to stay on the floor in crunch time. Phoenix did not need Brooks to reinvent himself. They needed him to show up and be exactly who he already was.
We knew what came with all of that. The technicals. The mind games. The staredowns. The relentless trolling. Sometimes it could cost you points in critical moments, but you have to take the good with the bad when it comes to Dillon Brooks. You don’t get the Villain without it.
Dillon Brooks' stare-down tradition is something else 😭
Dillon Brooks had a breakout season for the Phoenix Suns. He averaged a career-high 20.2 points per game on 43.5% shooting from the floor. It wasn’t just his scoring that set the tone of the Suns; it was what he did on the other end of the court.
Brooks was the one guy on this roster who genuinely looked forward to guarding the other team’s best player. He did not rotate off, did not take plays off, and did not flinch when the assignment got ugly. He’d mix it up and get in the head of the opponent’s top option.
His catch-and-shoot numbers held at a respectable 36.8% from deep, which kept defenses from sagging off him entirely and gave the offense legitimate spacing to work with. He shot 34.4% from deep overall, and 49.2 on two-point field goals.
Here is where it gets complicated. Brooks has never been a guy who stays in his lane for 48 minutes, and this season was no different. There were several times he decided to create off the dribble, and possessions died. Ball movement stopped. Jordan Ott’s offensive structure evaporated. The team went from executing to watching one guy hunt a mid-range look with 14 seconds left on the shot clock. And look, some of those possessions were warranted or “heat checks” but we all know the harmful overdribbling Dillon Brooks experience was a thing last year.
What It Means
For two years, this franchise has talked about needing a tough, physical wing who takes pride in the dirty work. Brooks is that guy. He does not need to be reminded. He does not need to be motivated. He shows up ready to compete every single night, and that quality is genuinely rare in a league full of players who pick their spots.
Dillon Brooks is as tough as they come. The thought yesterday was that he was not going to play today with that sore Achilles, and he was very close to not playing. But he got treatment all day and battled to get in that lineup. Dillon Brooks has changed EVERYTHING about the…
There are plenty of Suns fans who would love to see an extension for Brooks this summer, but the math has to make sense. There are so many different priorities both short and long-term for this team to figure out. But make no mistake… Dillon Brooks, Collin Gillespie and Jordan Goodwin are the dogs that led this team’s culture change. All three need to be here for a while.
Defining Moment
It’s tough to pick any one defining moment from Brooks, as he was a constant meme generator and hit so many big shots over the course of the season.
The career-high 40-point outburst in a win vs. the Pistons in late January has to be my overall pick. He took over this game and carried the Suns to a win with Devin Booker sidelined. It was an efficient 40-piece on just 22 shot attempts. He mixed it up quite a bit with the Pistons throughout as he led the Suns to the convincing win against the number one seed in the East.
Grade: A-
Brooks did his job and then some. To me, he earns a very solid “A minus” because he is largely responsible for this season’s success and overacheiving.
He defended, he competed, and he gave this team an identity on the perimeter that it genuinely lacked before he arrived. The iso tendencies docked him a little bit, but agian, you take the good with the bad with Dillon Brooks. The talent and the toughness were never in question.
The bottom line is there are 29 other teams that would kill to have their own version of Dillon Brooks. He is a tough player to find, and the Suns should not take what he brings to the table for granted. Even if he gives Jordan Ott the ocassional anxiety attack.
DALLAS, TEXAS - DECEMBER 18: Cooper Flagg #32 of the Dallas Mavericks dribbles the ball while defended by Cade Cunningham #2 of the Detroit Pistons in the second half of a game at American Airlines Center on December 18, 2025 in Dallas, Texas. 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 Gunnar Word/Getty Images) | Getty Images
It’s almost impossible to predict which players will one day turn into a possible NBA MVP. As the league takes steps to address its purported tanking crisis, the last No. 1 overall pick to win the MVP is still Derrick Rose, who taken in 2008. After Rose, you have to go back to LeBron James (2003) and Tim Duncan (1997) for the last No. 1 overall picks to win MVP. Victor Wembanyama will almost certainly break this drought in the next year or two, but the looming ascent of Wemby opens up another question: When is the next time an American-born player will win MVP?
The last American-born MVP was James Harden in 2018. Since then, Giannis Antetokounmpo won twice, Nikola Jokic won three times, Joel Embiid won once, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has won twice. Embiid was the only one of those players who was drafted in the top-10. It feels like Wembanyama could win the next seven MVP awards even if it’s unlikely because of the 65-game rule of award eligibility. It could be a long, long time before the next American MVP.
When thinking about the next American MVP, a long-term horizon needs to be considered. Given the gap between SGA, Wembanyama, Luka Doncic, and everyone else, it’s totally possible that the next NBA MVP born in America isn’t even in the league yet. Let’s go through some options.
Missed their window already, and never really got close
Donovan Mitchell: Mitchell is in the discussion for the best American-born player in the NBA right now. He’s also never finished top-5 in MVP voting, and he turns 30 in September. It’s not happening.
Jalen Brunson: It’s more likely that Brunson wins NBA Finals MVP than NBA MVP, even if that’s also a long-shot. Brunson is obviously terrific as a scorer and shot-creator, but he only has one fifth-place MVP finish to his name, and he’s not getting any better on the brink of his 30th birthday.
Jaylen Brown: He deserves a mention after the year he just turned in, but he’s not even the best player on his own team, let alone the best in the league.
Young veterans with a chance
Anthony Edwards: Edwards is one of the front-runners for this honor. He’s already a top-10 player in the league at 24 years old, and he’s also likely going to have a big marketing push behind him as the face of American basketball if he can continue to ascend as a player. Is there a world where the Timberwolves trade Rudy Gobert, Edwards suddenly has more space to drive and create, and he takes a big leap? What if he eventually changes teams? The fact that Edwards has improved so much since being drafted as a hyper-athletic ball of clay — just look at his three-point shooting from college to now — gives him a real shot to keep getting better and eventually win an MVP one day.
Jayson Tatum: Tatum is 28 years old and already has two fourth place MVP finishes on his resume. He looked fantastic returning from a torn Achilles this season, so it’s totally possible he can regain his level of play prior to the injury. Tatum was probably a long-shot MVP candidate even before the injury, since younger players have already passed him. It will be even harder with a reconstructed Achilles. Given that the Celtics consistently churn out great teams and Tatum remains their franchise player, there’s still a chance it happens one day if the other contenders miss the games played cut-off.
Cade Cunningham: Cunningham led his team to 60 wins in his age-24 season to fulfill the promise he showed as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft. He’s already a borderline top-10 player, and there’s so much low-hanging fruit to clean up in his game. Cunningham can go up another level if he cuts down the turnovers and improves his scoring efficiency, and it’s possible that playing in better spacing one day will get him there. It feels like Detroit might be better served to put another ball handler next to Cade and let him work as more of a wing than a point guard, but who knows if they will actually go in that direction. He’s one of the top candidates on this list …. but he’s nowhere near Wemby, while being 2.5 years older.
Evan Mobley: I would have ranked Mobley higher on my list of the next American MVP candidates a couple years ago, but he really hasn’t gotten much better lately. Does he have another big leap in him? He’s obviously a special defensive player and a good offensive player, but he’s a world away from MVP level.
LaMelo Ball: My toxic trait is that I never stop believing in LaMelo Ball. I had Ball ranked No. 1 in the 2020 NBA Draft, and he finally put it all together this season to both have a big impact on winning and grade out as a top-20 player in some metrics. The Hornets had the best net-rating in the NBA after Jan. 1. If Charlotte keeps that up and finishes at the top of the East next year (a big if, I know), Ball could sneak into MVP conversations.
Chet Holmgren: Holmgren is the closest thing we have to an American Wemby. He already feels like a top-10 player in the world to me, and just celebrated his 24th birthday. I really do think Holmgren can get up another level offensively, but not that’s not the role he’s been asked to play yet on the Thunder, and it’s hard to see a scenario where he’s the best player on his own team if he stays in OKC.
Tyrese Haliburton: Haliburton looked like an MVP-caliber player last time we saw him healthy in the 2025 NBA Finals. Can he get back to that level after a torn Achilles? It will be difficult, but not impossible. The Pacers point guard could be a Steve Nash-like candidate where he gets most of the credit of his team’s success if Indiana emerges as a contender again next season.
The 2006-2007 Generation
Cooper Flagg: Flagg was the youngest player in the NBA as a rookie, and he put together a terrific season despite being asked to play de facto point guard for the first time in his life. If an NBA player’s prime is ages 24-28, Flagg won’t hit that rank until the 2030-31 season. There have been eight players in league history to win MVP before they turned 24, and Flagg will be on an all-time trajectory if he can do that. I would like to see the Mavs star get back to his roots and reassert himself as a dominant defensive player after being …. fine on that end of the floor as a rookie while shouldering a huge offensive creation burden. Flagg has the talent to win MVP. No one else born in this country has his defensive ceiling while also being carrying this big of a usage load. It just feels like it will be hard for the Mavs to build a good enough team around him in the West in the near future.
Cameron Boozer: Boozer is the best player in the 2026 NBA Draft for my money. I’ve been touting him a future NBA superstar since he was in high school, and all he did at Duke was win national player of the year with a near-unanimous vote despite being basically the youngest player in the country. Concerns about his athleticism are overblown, but to get to MVP level Boozer would probably have to turn into an excellent pull-up three-point shooter or flirt with averaging a triple-double.
Darryn Peterson: It was only 18 months ago when Peterson was dropping 58 points on A.J Dybantsa in a 40 minute high school game. He never looked healthy at Kansas, but still showed that he can be a deadly three-point shooter. If his bizarre injury issues are over now and he’s really this good of a shooter, there’s a pathway for DP to be one of the most complete scoring guard prospects to hit the draft in recent memory.
A.J. Dybantsa: Dybantsa is an extremely gifted shot-creator for such a gigantic wing. I don’t think he’s really a complete player, but put a team full of dirty work guys around him and it’s possible he could emerge as a superstar engine of an elite team. He would need to take a big leap as a three-point shooter, defender, or both to get to MVP level, but there’s a world where that could happen.
Tyran Stokes: Stokes is the front-runner to go No. 1 overall in the 2027 NBA Draft right now as a jumbo shot-creator who stockpiles steals and blocks. There are some questions around his mentality. I asked an NBA scout at the combine if they thought Stokes had enough going on upstairs to eventually be a great player, and they responded by saying he’s currently a one-floor apartment. It’s more likely that he never makes an All-Star team than wins MVP, but he’s still a super talented player with plenty of time to learn winning habits.
Let’s get crazy
Rhys Robinson: Robinson is a 16-year-old who won’t be eligible for the NBA Draft until 2029. He’s a tall, high-feel point guard who has played up three years in international competitions and still performed well. He’s in the international pipeline right now but was born in California. I can’t believe I’m putting someone born in 2010 on this list, but the specter of Wemby’s long run of dominance will do crazy things to a man.
Joaquim Boumtje Boumtje: Enrolling at Duke as a 17-year-old this year, JBB won’t be eligible for the draft until 2028. The Florida native is reportedly close to 7-feet tall with the skill to play on the perimeter. He’s more of a forward than a center, and can get hot as a three-point shooter. He could be really good 10 years from now in 2036, if the world still exists at that point.
Predicting the next American-born NBA MVP
Who will be the next American-born NBA MVP? Here’s how I’d rank the candidates.
7. Darryn Peterson
6. LaMelo Ball
5. Chet Holmgren
4. Anthony Edwards
3. Cade Cunningham
2. Cooper Flagg
1. Cameron Boozer
Let us know who you think will be the next American-born NBA MVP below in the comments.
CLEVELAND, OHIO - APRIL 02: Jalen Brunson #11 of the New York Knicks talks with Donovan Mitchell #45 of the Cleveland Cavaliers after the game at Rocket Arena on April 02, 2025 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Cavaliers defeated the Knicks 124-105. 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 Jason Miller/Getty Images) | Getty Images
It’s been a million years since the New York Knicks last graced a basketball court. But the playoffs haven’t stopped and our beloved Knickerbockers are back it, starting on Tuesday, and hooping in the Eastern Conference Finals for the second year and row.
After beating a pesky Atlanta Hawks squad and vaporizing the Philadelphia 76ers, the Knicks are facing a much tougher matchup on paper against the Cleveland Cavaliers. Can they keep it rolling? Can they extend their ongoing seven-game winning streak? Will the vibes stay the same as they’ve been for the past few weeks and into the depths of June!?
As usual, the Posting & Toasting crew has squeezed back around the round(ball) table to cut through the noise and tackle the juiciest questions surrounding New York’s EFC showdown with their Cleveland foes. Our panel of basketball geniuses tackled the following questions:
How many games will the Knicks-Cavaliers ECF last, and who makes the Finals?
Antonio: I failed miserably predicting Embiid/Maxey to have an unwinnable game each against the Knicks. I’ll put my reputation on the line once again cause I don’t think it’s that risky. I refuse to believe Donovan Mitchell won’t at least have one of those ridiculous 50-burger outings he puts together here and there, and the Cavs have a bunch of very solid starters, so as not to combine for another victory. Give me Knicks in six and I’d be pleased.
Miranda: Knicks in five. The Cavs won two Game 7s to get this far, and that has to mean something. But those wins were over two teams still learning to rub two sticks together on offense, so how much those Cavs wins matter is pro’ly more eye-of-the-beholder than usual.
Zeno: I gave the Sixers way too much credit last round, and that’s my bad, but I would truly be shocked if the Cavs looked as bad as they did, even with the grueling postseason they’ve endured so far. There are a lot of key matchups in this one, but I lean the Knicks to win a war of attrition and wear down a fatigued Cavs squad in six games to advance to the NBA Finals for the first time in 27 years.
Kento: The Cavaliers will be the best team the Knicks have played. They, even more so than the two previous teams the Knicks played, pose some unique challenges, but they aren’t hurt, and they aren’t inexperienced. The Cavaliers have a lot of talent, and are more versatile in the ways they can play than the Hawks, and 76ers too. I also think the Knicks’ offense, partly because of how the Cavaliers will defend them, will come back down to earth. But I still think they have the depth, talent, home-court advantage, and rest to take them over the top. Knicks in six.
Beyond Jalen Brunson, who is the most important Knick in the ECF?
Antonio: Everybody’s talking about OG—both health- and talent-wise—but I just can’t go with anyone else than Mitchell Robinson. Yes, bench guy. Yes, awful at the line. Yes, a limited-minutes, strategical advantange for the Cavs. But when Mitch is on, he’s a menace, and the Knicks will need all of it to deal with the Mobley-Allen pairing in the paint. Robinson already dominated Cleveland’s bigs in 2023. Let’s have a re-do.
Miranda: OG Anunoby. Specifically, his hamstring. Both these teams feature multiple quality big men. Both feature elite combo guards. Both are led by coaches whose CV would be gussied up quite a bit with the addition of an NBA title. And while I agree with Joe Vardon that Max Strus looks a little beefier than in the past, maybe the biggest difference between the teams is one has an 80-inch, 240 pound two-way monster who was the Eastern playoffs MVP before hurting his hamstring, and the other has Strus. If OG is anything close to what he was the first two rounds, Cleveland has no chance.
Zeno: The longest tenured Knick, Mitchell Robinson. In 2023, he and Isaiah Hartenstein brutalized Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen to a pulp on the boards. iHart is gone, and Karl-Anthony Towns does more than enough on the boards to replace him, but I truly believe this series needs to have a gigantic performance from Big Mitch on the boards. In two games against Cleveland this year, he grabbed 29 rebounds (16 offensive) in 36 total minutes. More of that, please.
Kento: Josh Hart. The Cavaliers have the defensive personnel to guard Hart with a center-something that has long stifled the team’s offense. The Knicks have found some workarounds, but still lack a consistent enough counter to when opponents do that. If Hart is a willing, and effective enough shooter, it won’t matter. But if he becomes hesitant, or goes completely cold, this series could get uncomfortable. I also think his offensive rebounding, and defense on Harden and or Mitchell will be imperative to winning this series as well.
What must New York do to win this series and represent the East in the Finals?
Antonio: Drag the series into a seven-game affair so the Cavs wave the white flag. No, seriously, they simply have to do what they earned in the regular season and Cleveland helped them get for the third consecutive round: play to their home-court advantage, start the ECF going up 2-0, and go from there. There’s no way the Cavs pull off the miracle if they go two games behind to start the conference finals, coming off playing 14 games in a month, let alone with New York having nine days off. If we’re going Xs & Os, be mad quick and jump all possible passing lanes. Yes, you’ll get caught here and there, but the Cavs turn the ball over like madmen, so more often than not, those mistakes and an active D should do wonders for the Knicks.
Miranda: The Cavaliers barely beat a Raptors team with RJ Barrett as a leading scorer and a Pistons team whose best scorer after Cade Cunningham was Tobias Harris, who shot 39% in the series. So they’re obviously leveling up taking on the scoring Xanadu that is these Knicks. But the surest way for the Knicks to win the series is to pick their poison on defense and stick with it: either play Donovan Mitchell pretty straight-up and ensure none of his teammates get going, or refuse to let Mitchell beat them and leave it to the rest of the Cavs to make shots. The Cavs are by far the best scoring side the Knicks have seen this postseason, but I don’t think they have enough players capable of going off. After Mitchell, I don’t think they have any.
Zeno: Make Cleveland’s offense uncomfortable. They lead all the teams in turnovers and points allowed off turnovers as Donovan Mitchell and James Harden are trading bad performances. It’s hard to shut the water off on both of them, but even making one extremely frustrated can disrupt their offensive flow and allow you to score in transition.
Kento: Win the possession battle. Throughout the ups and downs, and the craziness of the Cavaliers’ postseason run, a few things remain a constant. They’ve actually been a good offensive rebounding team, but still struggle with keeping opponents off the offensive glass, and they have not only been turnover prone, but have been abysmal in transition defense. Thankfully, the Knicks have been great at rebounding the ball on both ends of the floor, and while they don’t force a ton of turnovers, they’ve been among the best in the league at converting their limited opportunities into points. If the Knicks can win the possession battle against an already fatigued team, it could be the ultimate difference-maker.
What concerns you most about the Knicks entering the ECF?
Antonio: Rust. If you frequent the comment section of P&T, you’ve read me mentioning it since the day the Knicks clinched their spot in the ECF, let alone each passing day the Cavs-Pistons series extended for yet another game. Having a few days off might help, but being out for damn nine days is unheard of, so we don’t even know how that might or might not work out in favor of or against New York. That said, once both teams settle into the series, and the longer they last, it’s fair to assume the Knicks should have a sizable fresh-legs advantage.
Miranda: Madison Square Garden is as big a homecourt advantage for a Game 7 as there is in the Association, but earlier in playoff series it can feel more the opposite. I think that’s more about how fandom has evolved over time than anything specific to MSG, but I suspect that as players have become more like comrades than enemies (which I don’t mind) and every team is now a billionaire vanity project, the little things that used to differentiate between the haves and have-nots don’t really apply anymore, including homecourt advantage.
When the Bad Boys won back-to-back titles in the late 1980s, owner Bill Davidson made them the first team to have their own private charter, Roundball One. If the Pistons were flying private during a playoff series and whoever they were beating up on was still flying commercial, that was a big advantage. A year ago Forbes estimated Cavs’ owner Dan Gilbert’s “worth” as $22.5 billion. That’s par for the course nowadays. My biggest worry, at least earlier in the series, is whether playing at home with all the pressure to win that there is on this group, for the first time ever, could build to an uncomfortable point.
Zeno: The long time off might be an obvious answer, but I’ll go with Cleveland’s 3-point shooting. The biggest advantage you had in a potential series against Detroit was their lack of it, but the Knicks will have to not only guard Mitchell and Harden closely, but stay home on guys like Max Strus, Dean Wade, and Sam Merrill on the perimeter. This team is very capable of pouring it on offensively.
Kento: As mentioned above, the Cavaliers defense, and more specifically, how they defend Hart. Dean Wade has boasted great individual defensive numbers against Brunson this year, but seeing as he averaged damn near 30PPG against VJ Edgecombe, who had similar success, I’m not as worried there. But the Knicks’ worst offensive droughts often come when teams put their centers on Hart. When, not if, the Cavaliers deploy that strategy, how will Hart, the rest of the Knicks, and Brown respond? And just as importantly, if the offenses starts to struggle, can Brown pull the plug, and not only make the necessary adjustments, but do so quick enough to avoid becoming the next Thibodeau?
Heading into the ECF, what gives you the most confidence about New York amid its postseason run?
Antonio: It took them more than 90 games and a few locker room discussions amid the Hawks series, no less (welp) to get their excrement together, but the Knicks have finally blossomed into the uber-killing machine we envisioned in August and watched win the winter tourney. Seriously, there is just no realistic scenario in which the Cavs catch such a massive break as the Pacers did last year—injuries, bounces, whatnot—to kick the Knicks out of contention. I just refuse to believe it.
Miranda: They’ve never lost a playoff series against Cleveland. Plus, after their last four ECFs dating back to 1994 came against Indiana, the Knicks’ mirror nemesis, it will be refreshing not to face the dark chaos magic that is every f***ing Pacers team ever.
Zeno: Two things, actually. The rest advantage and the way they’ve been playing. The Cavs have played 14 games in 30 days leading into this series and could play as many as 21 in 44 days. In the regular season, players will load manage, and the games are less intense, but it’s a whole different beast in the playoffs. They were exhausted against the Pacers last year, and the Knicks can do the same thing to them. Secondly, we just watched the most dominant seven-game stretch in Knicks history. I’m not going to doubt them until I see them deviate from this winning formula on both ends of the floor.
Kento: I’ll cheat and go with two. One is Brunson. I tend to believe that in the postseason, when the talent level is close enough, the team with the best player usually wins. That should give the Knicks the advantage. But I’ll echo what everyone else is saying and also go with the trajectory of both teams. I get that every series is a new series but the Cavaliers have played four more games, needed seven games to beat a solid, but mediocre Raptors team, and a Pistons team who’s second best offensive player was…. Tobias Harris? Meanwhile, the Knicks are rested, are more prepared, and have been playing the best basketball of the season, and overall look as focused as they ever have.
INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - APRIL 06: Yaxel Lendeborg #23 of the Michigan Wolverines reacts during the second half of a game against the UConn Huskies in the National Championship of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Lucas Oil Stadium on April 06, 2026 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) | Getty Images
When talking about the 2026 NBA draft, everyone knows about the top 4.
But there is a player who will almost certainly be available when the Mavericks pick at 9 who matches all of the top 4 statistically, so why isn’t he viewed with the likes of AJ Dybansta and Cam Boozer?
Well, he’ll be 24 when the season starts.
The basics
Yaxel Lendeborg was born Sep. 20 2002 in Puerto Rico, before moving to Ohio when he was 2 years old. He attended Pennsauken High School in New Jersey, but only played in 11 varsity games in his high school career.
This unusual circumstance was caused by his bad grades, which kept him from playing on the varsity squad. This began his roundabout basketball career, as Lendeborg would commit to Arizona Western, a junior college school, where he would play for 3 seasons.
He would be recognized as the NJCAA and ACCAC player of the year in his 3rd season, averaging 17.2 points and 13 rebounds per game. After this season he would transfer to the University of Alabama at Birmingham.
He would again dominate this level, where he would win back-to-back American Athletic Conference (AAC) defensive player of the years, where he averaged 17.7 points 11.4 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.8 blocks and 1.7 steals per game in his final season.
Following this season Lendeborg would enter the transfer portal, while also attending the NBA draft combine. After the combine, Lendeborg would choose to return to school, where he would transfer to the Michigan Wolverines.
This decision proved to be the right one, as Lendeborg and the Wolverines would cap off a dominant season with a National Championship.
Lendeborg would have a tremendous season, being named the Big 10 National player of the year, as well as a consensus first team All-American.
Lendeborg averaged 15.1 points, 6.8 rebounds, 3.2 assists, and 2.3 stocks per game.
The good
Lendeborg’s biggest strength is his combination of size and athleticism. He measured in at 6’8.75 barefoot, and weighed in at 241 pounds, with a 7’3 wingspan. These measurables are absolutely outstanding, as Lendeborg should be able to play the 3-5, giving him supreme positional versatility. He also has a fluidity that is rare for his size. This shows itself both as a driver, and as a defender, as he’s able to guard both speedy wings, and powerful big-men. This frame is also NBA ready, as he should have the strength to battle with almost any player in the league.
Lendeborg also possesses elite efficiency across almost all play-types. He shot 72% at the rim, and 37% from three, both being great numbers for his playstyle. He was also efficient in every context: attacking the rim, posting up smaller defenders, or popping off of a screen for a three. He’s able to effortlessly switch between off and on-ball play-types, capable of creating his own shot, or playing off of others. His shot diet is also nearly perfect, as almost all of his shots come at the rim or three point line. While he may not posses the self-creation ability of the truly elite prospects, his versatility allows him to be impactful whether he has the ball or not.
Perhaps the most NBA ready part of Lendeborg’s skillset will be his defense, as he projects to become an elite backline menace. Lendeborg doesn’t necessarily have one skill that sets him apart defensively; rather, it is his ability to slot in wherever a team is lacking. He can perform as a great secondary rim-protector next to a center, a wing stopper, or even a small-ball five. His long arms and thick frame lead to a high number of steals and blocks. Lendeborg also could become a volume rebounder, as he has shown the ability to grab double digit boards during his college career. While those numbers dipped last season, it can be chalked up to playing alongside Morez Johnson Jr. and Aday Mara. Overall, Lendeborg will immediately become one of the more versatile defenders in the NBA, and has the potential to truly wreck games.
An underrated part of Lendeborg’s game is his playmaking, which could have the potential to be truly great. While his raw assist numbers may be lackluster, the advanced metrics paint a different story. Lendeborg posted an 18% AST%, 3.1 AST/TO, and 2.9 rim AST a game, all numbers in the 85th percentile or better. While these numbers could suggest hidden upside as an on-ball creator, he will more than likely be limited due to his scoring ability. At the very least, he should be an effective connective passer who always makes the right play.
Finally, Lendeborg’s advanced impact metrics cannot be ignored, as he has some of the best in this class. Lendeborg posted the second best BPM in the class, only behind Cameron Boozer. This impact felt on both sides of the ball, as he was second best in both metrics. This level of impact usually translates to the NBA, even if it’s inflated due to his age.
The bad
Simply put, Yaxel Lendeborg’s age is the only reason he isn’t discussed as a top 5 prospect in this class. Lendeborg will be 24 years old when the 2026-2027 NBA season begins, a truly outrageous age for a rookie. To put this in perspective, he is older than Paolo Banchero, who will be entering his 5th NBA season. His age is a nuanced topic, as many have claimed that the only reason he has the impact that he showcased in college was due to his age. While this is a bit extreme, the cause for concern is not fully without merit. While Lendeborg’s raw BPM was 15.1 (second best in the class), his BPM+ (which accounts for factors such as age) was only 5.1, which is 15th in the class. His age also means that his potential is capped at being a role player, as teams can expect very few physical changes for Lendeborg at this point in his career.
When it comes to his game the biggest concern is the three-point shot. While Lendeborg shot 37% from three last season at Michigan, it was the first season in his long college career where the 3-ball was a legitimate weapon. His form is solid, but I do have concerns about whether he will have real three-point gravity at the next level.
Fit with the Mavericks
While many Mavericks fans would hate this draft selection, his fit would be incredibly seamless. Lendeborg could immediately start at the 4 next to Cooper Flagg, helping him on both sides of the ball.
The issue is that the Mavericks already have a player that is very similar to Lendeborg, while only being 3 years older.
That being P.J. Washington Jr.
The other problem is Flagg’s timeline. Lendeborg is ready to help a contending team win now, and while the Mavericks should be feisty next year, winning is not a priority. Furthermore, Lendeborg will be 30 years old before Flagg turns 25, and will be on the decline before Flagg hits his prime years.
Player comparison
The most obvious comp for Lendeborg is Aaron Gordon with slightly less athleticism. This comp is mainly rooted in their shared physical traits and defensive versatility. While Gordon is not a star, he routinely has been one of the most impactful players in the entire league, and is vital to the Nuggets system. Lendeborg’s low end comp is the aforementioned P.J. Washington Jr.
Is this the year the New York Knicks return to the NBA Finals?
Have the up-and-down Cleveland Cavaliers finally figured it out?
Before the season began, it was a popular pick for Cleveland and New York to face off in the Eastern Conference Finals… and then the season started. It did not look for long stretches like the Cavaliers would be able to reach their potential, while the Knicks fought through the season with fans saying something usually reserved for NHL teams — they're better built for the playoffs.
Here we are: Jalen Brunson vs. Donovan Mitchell. Karl-Anthony Towns and Mitchell Robinson vs. Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen. Two good benches (which actually could decide this series). On paper, these teams match up well, but for two seasons now, the Knicks have shown toughness, grit, and the ability to live up to that potential under pressure. Cleveland still has to prove that. It makes for a fascinating series.
Here's everything you need to know about the Eastern Conference Finals.
Cleveland vs. New York Playoffs Schedule 2026
All times are Eastern (* = if necessary). Game 1: Cleveland at New York, Tuesday, May 19 (8 ET, ESPN) Game 2: Cleveland at New York, Thursday, May 21 ((8 ET, ESPN) Game 3: New York at Cleveland, Saturday, May 23 (8 ET, ABC) Game 4: New York at Cleveland, May 25, (8 ET, ESPN) *Game 5: Cleveland at New York, May 27 (8 ET, ESPN) *Game 6: New York at Cleveland, May 29, (8 ET, ESPN) *Game 7: Cleveland at New York, May 31 (8 ET, ESPN)
Player to watch: Donovan Mitchell
From Raphielle Johnson, NBC Sports fantasy basketball lead writer Outside of Game 6, Mitchell had a very good second round, averaging 28.1 points, 5.6 rebounds, 3.6 assists and 2.4 three-pointers per game while shooting 45.1 percent from the field and 84.0 percent from the foul line. He didn't shoot the three as well as he could, but Spida's ability to get to the foul line helped compensate for those struggles. To advance to the NBA Finals, the Cavaliers will need Mitchell to be as productive as he was in the second round, if not better.
Unlike Detroit, the Knicks don't have major spacing issues on offense, which means the Cavaliers will need to be more effective on both ends of the floor. Mitchell will have plenty of help in this series, but the storylines of him facing the Knicks because of the proximity to his hometown (Greenwich, CT) and the trade that wasn't consummated between Utah and New York mean he'll be in the spotlight.
Keys to watch for in Cavaliers vs. Knicks
From Kurt Helin, lead NBA writer
Is James Harden up for the moment?
In previous matchups, the Knicks put their best perimeter defender — OG Anunoby — on Donovan Mitchell. That puts extra pressure on Harden, who will have to step up and just flat-out win a couple of games for Cleveland in this series for the Cavs to have a chance. He's also fully capable of that. For all his postseason duds (including Game 7 against Detroit, it just didn't matter because Mitchel and Evan Mobley stepped up), Harden also has had dominant postseason outings.
Mikal Bridges likely draws the Harden assignment for New York, and he was impressive against Tyrese Maxey in the last round. Cleveland needs Harden to step up despite the defense — this is why they traded for him at the deadline.
Evan Mobley vs. Karl-Anthony Towns
New York's run of six straight wins began when the team started using Karl-Anthony Towns in the high post as a hub rather than a go-to scoring option. His gravity and passing opened up lanes for cutters, or for plays that got the ball to Jalen Brunson in a mismatch or already moving downhill.
Evan Mobley — or, more specifically, the combination of Mobley and Jarrett Allen — has the ability to disrupt that flow. Mobley was fantastic against the Pistons, and the front line of him and Allen made life difficult for Jalen Duren. Mobley and Allen are a good matchup vs Towns and Mitchell Robinson, and whoever comes out on top in that matchup is much closer to winning the series.
OG Anunoby’s health
Hamstrings are tricky, and while this was supposed to be a minor injury — he was always listed as day-to-day and might have returned if the series against the 76ers was not a sweep — one never knows for sure. Anunoby is probable to play in Game 1. If Anunoby isn't right, the Knicks perimeter defense gets a lot worse, plus he's averaging 21.4 points a game and shooting 53.8% from 3-point range these playoffs. He's probably fine, but it's something to watch.
Predictions
Kurt Helin (NBA lead writer): Knicks in 6
Cleveland has the talent on the roster to beat New York, but it also does not play with the consistent urgency or toughness to do it four times out of seven games. We know New York is going to bring it every game, and Mike Brown will make the needed adjustments. Plus, when James Harden has an off game — as he did in Game 7 against Detroit — the Cavaliers are not going to be able to cover for him like they did against the Pistons or Raptors. If the Cavs are going to make this a real series, they need to steal Game 1 on the road against a rusty Knicks team that has been off for a week.
Raphielle Johnson (fantasy basketball lead writer): Knicks in 6
While I understand the "rest vs. rust" conversation, I don't believe that it will apply as much in this series. New York entered the second round in a similar scenario, and even though Cleveland is much better than Philadelphia, that experience should help the Knicks in the early part of this series. Also, the time off was needed for OG Anunoby and Josh Hart, both of whom were either sidelined by injuries or played through them in the second round. With Karl-Anthony Towns playing as well as he has, Mikal Bridges regaining his confidence, the bench stepping up and Jalen Brunson being Jalen Brunson, I like the Knicks to earn their first NBA Finals appearance since 1999.
Jay Coucher (NBA lead betting analyst): Knicks in 6
When the Cavs play with force and intent like they have in both of their Game 7s this playoff run, their ceiling is incredibly high, with elite creation paired with outstanding rim protection and a roster loaded with shooting. But this team is too inconsistent to be fully trusted (why did they completely no show Game 6 against Detroit?) against a Knicks team that has been consistently locked in lately and has far fewer glaring weaknesses than Detroit or Toronto that Cleveland can prod at.
OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA - MAY 18: Jared McCain #3 of the Oklahoma City Thunder and Stephon Castle #5 of the San Antonio Spurs compete for a loose ball during the second quarter in Game One of the NBA Western Conference Finals at Paycom Center on May 18, 2026 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. 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 Slitz/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The Western Conference Finals started with a bang Monday night as the San Antonio Spurs took out the Oklahoma City Thunder, 122-115 in double overtime.
Mason Plumlee did not get off the bench again, but he’s 36 now and his role is limited: he’s a reliable big man for spot duty as needed. His career is winding down, but he’s not going to do stupid things if called upon.
As for Jared McCain, he got 18 minutes, scored 7 points, 3 rebounds, and an assist.
On Tuesday, Tyrese Proctor and the Cleveland Cavaliers open the Eastern Conference Finals against the New York Knicks.
It didn’t take long for the Minnesota Timberwolves roster to change going into the offseason.
Wolves veteran guard Joe Ingles announced that he is signing with Melbourne United in the NBL, returning to his native Australia after a 12-year stint in the NBA with the Utah Jazz, Milwaukee Bucks, Orlando Magic and the past two seasons in Minnesota.
“To return to where my professional career began almost 20 years ago is something I don’t take for granted.
“So much has happened since then, but Melbourne has always felt like home.
“We’re really excited to reconnect with the community here, and to be closer to family and friends again. After so many years overseas, that part means a lot to us.”
While Ingles did not play much for the Wolves during his tenure with the team, he was a valuable veteran for a group on the rise. During the season, Jaylen Clark spoke to Ingles’ importance of being one of the last players on the roster.
Jaylen Clark on Joe Ingles importance to the Wolves, as Ingles is kicking a ball at the TV monitors and screaming in the background
“He’ll say whatever, he don’t really care. He’s like positive in a messed up way(laughs) I don’t know how to say it. Like he always tells you what… pic.twitter.com/JNN1g1rp1m
That speaks to why the Wolves brought Ingles back last summer despite hardly playing in his first season with the team.
With Ingles gone, it opens up a spot on the roster for a younger player, possibly Enrique Freeman or Rocco Zikarsky from the two-way slots, or the Wolves could bring in another veteran to occupy a veteran minimum deal.
Canis Hoopus community, what do you make of Ingles’ departure? Who should the Wolves bring on board in free agency to fill his spot? Chime off in the comments section below.
May 18, 2026; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama (1) celebrates with San Antonio Spurs guard Stephon Castle (5) after defeating the Oklahoma City Thunder in double overtime against during game one of the western conference finals for the 2026 NBA playoffs at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images | Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
Just before the tip off of Game 1 Western Conference Finals, the Oklahoma City crowd was treated to their super star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander receiving his MVP trophy. At the other end of the court, Victor Wembanyama was warming up. The question on the minds of many was exactly what Wemby’s response would be.
In a thrilling double-overtime Spurs victory, the question was answered. Wembanyama tallied a 41-point, 24 rebound game. Comparatively, SGA put up a 24-point game, starting slow with only four points in the first half.
This was the Thunder’s first loss of the postseason. Not something they are used to, but then this wasn’t their usual game.
In fact, if not for the hot shooting of Alex Caruso’s 31-point night, the Thunder spent the evening on the outside looking in. At the end of the third quarter, Caruso and Jalen Williams, in his first game since contracting a hamstring injury, owned nearly half of the Thunder’s scoring output.
The game took its toll as the five starters all tallied more than 40 minutes apiece. Vassell had 51 while Wemby and Castle each played 49.
The Spurs led most of the game, and though the Thunder looked out of sorts, they remained within striking distance throughout. Toward the end of regulation, the momentum shifted slightly giving the Thunder a brief lead.
If not for Wemby’s timely 3-point shot, there might not have a second overtime.
Game 2 of the Western Conference Finals takes place on Wednesday night in Oklahoma City. Expect the Thunder to play with some desperation. Expect they will smooth the rough edges of their Game 1 performance.
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When Victor Wembanyama pulled up from a step inside the logo Monday night, delivering a Steph Curry-esque 3-pointer in Oklahoma City that sent Game 1 of the Western Conference Finals to the first of two riveting overtimes, we did two things.
1) We let out an audible groan, resigned to the fact that this 7-foot-4 alien (and San Antonio’s young core) could dominate the league for the foreseeable future, with the championship-minted Thunder perhaps the only real obstacle in their path; and 2) We reached for our keyboard and started pecking out this story.
Because in that moment, what had already been painfully obvious throughout these playoffs crystalized a little bit more:
The Celtics have some real work to do.
The 2026 NBA playoffs have been filled with sobering reminders that the pathway back to true title contention is further than it might have seemed, especially during the tail end of Boston’s vibes-filled regular season.
As everyone takes inventory of the Celtics’ season and what pathway they choose to navigate next, we keep flashing back to Brad Stevens’ end-of-the-year press conference, when he noted the Celtics were 3-11 against what many would consider the five other top seeds between the conferences (Oklahoma City, San Antonio, Detroit, New York and Denver).
It would be very easy for the Celtics to convince themselves that minor tweaks — along with a healthier Jayson Tatum — might be enough to keep them among the East favorites next season. And that might be true. But then you watch Game 1 of the West Finals, and it simply feels like Oklahoma City and San Antonio are in a different stratosphere than the rest of the league at this moment.
And the sobering reality is that neither of those teams is likely coming back to Earth any time soon.
Wembanyama originates from another planet and seemingly has no intention of acclimating to this one. The Thunder have an absurd amount of picks that will allow them to either restock amid rising roster costs, or make the sort of big-swing move that can help them win an arms race with San Antonio.
The Celtics went 0-2 against the Spurs, although Jaylen Brown’s absurd ejection didn’t aid their cause in the second meeting. Boston’s win over the streaking Thunder in late March gave hope that a fully healthy Celtics team might fare better against elite competition in the playoffs. Alas, a 1-3 regular-season mark against New York suggested that Boston still had work to do to simply navigate Round 2. If they had gotten that far.
But they didn’t. They lost Game 7 on their home court for the second time in four seasons, this time in Round 1. And some of the optimism gathered over a tantalizingly fun and overachieving regular season was diminished.
We’ll temper all that by noting that any roster helmed by Tatum and Brown has a legitimate chance to get to the title stage. When surrounded by the right pieces, the Jays have delivered the Celtics to the championship round in two of the previous four seasons. There is no denying the success of that tandem.
But Stevens has routinely noted how the north star in Boston is always a championship banner. Just being good enough to get to the title stage isn’t enough.
So how do the Celtics get there? We’ll spend so much of the offseason pondering all the various paths. But for much of the regular season, it was fair to wonder if internal development combined with a healthier Tatum might be enough to boost Boston’s title potential.
Now? We’re not so sure. The Sixers series exposed a bit of Boston’s weaknesses in a way the regular season masked. Stevens and his front-office staff must at least examine bolder decisions this offseason. That’s why everyone from Brown to Derrick White to Sam Hauser will dance in trade rumors this summer.
The last time Boston’s season ended in disappointment with a Game 7 loss at TD Garden, Stevens made the bold decisions to shake up the core, sending out both Marcus Smart and Robert Williams III but bringing back the key pieces of Boston’s 2024 title run in Kristaps Porzingis and Jrue Holiday.
This team doesn’t have quite as much freedom to spend like it did that year, but it might soon. One more year under the luxury tax could reset repeater penalties and allow Stevens to splurge big in the summer of 2027.
The question is whether anyone wants to wait that long.
Therein lies the challenge for Stevens. Watching Wembanyama put up 41 points and 24 rebounds is just another reminder of how the Celtics need to fortify their frontcourt. Watching the way the Thunder and Spurs relentless defend and contest shots is another reminder that Boston’s offense needs to be even more efficient despite all the regular-season success.
Stevens noted how the Celtics have to improve their margin for error. It was far too slim this year. A healthier Tatum will stretch it out a bit. But Monday’s West Finals was a harsh reminder that there’s still plenty of work to be done to stretch that margin to a place that teams like San Antonio and Oklahoma City reside.
Mar 11, 2026; Chicago, IL, USA; Washington Huskies guard Zoom Diallo (5) celebrates his team’s win against the Southern California Trojans at United Center. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images | David Banks-Imagn Images
Mark Pope lost a lot of goodwill with certain media members after closing up shop after a bad season.
I, for one, appreciated the approach from Pope. Mark Pope put his head down this offseason, opting to skip the press conferences in favor of securing pieces like Zoom Diallo and Alex Wilkins. But as the roster comes together, not everyone is sold on Kentucky’s new backcourt, just ask Fran Fraschilla.
I think it made no sense to go on KSR or pop up and have a press conference in the middle of recruiting. Put your head down and get to work. Kentucky is down an assistant as is. And they have 2 expiring next month, a 20-minute media session isn’t going to do much.
To his credit, Pope responded directly to fan questions on Twitter, and we gained some insight into his summer plans and how he feels others have used Kentucky in recruiting wars. But it was done only once the roster was mainly done, and while I believe there are issues (lack of perimeter shooting being chief among them), the roster is a solid, capable bunch of players who will need to come together quickly and make a team.
Last year’s team was unable to do that, partly because of injuries, and partly because the pieces just didn’t fit. Pope grabbed two point guards in Zoom Diallo and Alex Wilkins to avoid the same situation that happened the last two seasons. And they have remarkably similar games.
Both excel in driving, both turn it over a little too much, both are really consistent at finishing at the rim, neither really excels in setting up teammates, but both are solid in doing so. It turns out Fran Fraschilla is not a believer.
When discussing Washington star Hannes Steinbach’s NBA Draft spot, NBA analyst Nick Heintzman (and his 100ush followers) said, “Hannes Steinbach really helped himself at the combine. Established that he has enough size and athleticism to play the 4 or the 5. Has many avenues to succeed in the league. Was held back by awful Washington guards. I might have him T10.”
Heintzman clarified his stance by saying, “Thanks, Fran. To be clear, my point was that Steinbach’s offensive environment/guard play at Washington didn’t do him many favors, particularly in terms of getting him the ball in advantageous situations. Steinbach was often left to create offense through the glass, hustle plays, and transition pushes off rebounds. Zoom’s assist rate was strong, and I haven’t formed a firm opinion yet on how he’ll fare in a different context at Kentucky.”
That’s fair; no one can predict exactly how each player is going to respond in a new environment. It’s an educated guess. Fraschilla, though, added:
I watched them play in person. I love Hannes and I love Coach Sprinkle. Injuries certainly affected their team’s outcome. Diallo is a nice middle of the SEC guard. Kindest way to say it.
Comparing Zoom Diallo to last year’s SEC guard crop
Zoom Diallo had a good jump from his freshman to sophomore year at Washington. He averaged:
-15 points (48 percent from the floor, 31 percent from 3) -4 assists, 2 turnovers -4 rebounds a night
Now let’s look at the SEC point guards of last year:
Darius Acuff, Ja’Kobi Gillespie, Labaron Philon, and Tyler Tanner all scored and assisted more, so that puts 4 above him. But from there, it’s really pick your poison.
Meechie Johnson shot more and worse, Xaivian Lee shot worse and scored less while assisting nearly the same. So at worst, if he had the same season as last year, and everyone around him did as well, he probably sits no worse than 5th or 6th in the SEC.
I am a big believer in Zoom’s offensive game. He is built like a tank and can get to the free-throw line early and often. I do worry that his 3-point shot reverts to his freshman form (18 percent), and the turnovers scare me a bit. But if he can take a few steps forward in shooting and passing, he will be one of the best point guards in the SEC next year IMO.
He definitely isn’t middle of the pack unless he reverts big time. It’s just another example of hitting Mark Pope and Kentucky when they are down.
Will the Cats be able to respond on the court next season? Well, that’s the question. Looking at each position, I think Kentucky has more natural talent than it did last season. But there are question marks, as there will be with any team. It will definitely be a big help if Milan Momcilovic decides to become a Cat.
Let’s see how they look over the summer. But it doesn’t look like the media firestorm is slowing down anytime soon.
While Fran Fraschilla might see Diallo as “middle of the pack,” the stats suggest a player with a much higher ceiling, provided Pope can maximize his ability.
Shams says EVERY contender team has called to ask about LeBron 
