One common theme across all of Coach Pope’s teams has been injuries.
According to KSR’s Jack Pilgrim, junior wing Trent Noah has re-aggravated the hamstring injury that bothered him earlier this summer.
Noah originally tweaked the hamstring in July, with Mark Pope calling it “a nothing” at the time, but he later missed UK’s final open practice of the summer.
Now, the latest setback is expected to keep Noah out during the preseason and could potentially linger into Kentucky’s exhibition schedule.
It’s another injury concern for a Wildcats roster that has already dealt with several this offseason and far too many under Pope.
Kam Williams missed summer practices after undergoing a second procedure on the foot he broke last season, though Pope has expressed confidence he’ll be available for the season.
Franck Kepnang was also limited for much of the summer as Kentucky carefully managed his return from previous leg injuries.
More recently, star transfer Milan Momcilovic suffered a jammed index finger on his shooting hand. While initial reports feared a break, further testing brought better news, and he is expected back around the start of fall practice, though he’s currently sidelined.
Kentucky still has time before the games count, but staying healthy is quickly becoming a recurring storyline in Lexington.
WASHINGTON - UNDATED: Milwaukee Bucks' Kareem Abdul Jabbar #33 looks to shoot as he is guarded by Wes Unseld of the Washington Bullets at Capital Center circa the 1970's in Washington, D.C.. 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 Focus on Sport via Getty Images) | Focus on Sport via Getty Images
Wes Unseld is somewhat overlooked today, and that’s a shame.
The Louisville native had a tremendous career at his hometown school, averaging 20.6 ppg and 18.9 rpg for his varsity career (freshmen were not eligible at the time) Drafted in 1968, he was brilliant in the NBA as well.
In the NBA, despite being just 6-7, Unseld played center. With his immense strength, he managed to limit much taller players like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.
He was also one of the greatest outlet passers of all time. In our opinion, that list includes Bill Russell, Bill Walton, Unseld’s godson Kevin Love, and probably Nikola Jokic (Maurice Stokes gets a special mention here).
But when you get down to it, Unseld, who won both Rookie of the Year and Player of the Year in 1969, something only Wilt Chamberlain has ever done, succeeded largely through sheer strength and will.
He was able to use his massively powerful body to push bigger men around, and nobody wanted to run into him as a screener, because Unseld left bruises.
He was a highly unusual player, and someone who is not acknowledged nearly enough today as one of the greats of the game.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MAY 06: Paul George #8 of the Philadelphia 76ers looks on during the first quarter against the New York Knicks in Game Two of the Second Round of the NBA Eastern Conference Playoffs at Madison Square Garden on May 06, 2026 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Dustin Satloff/Getty Images) | Getty Images
When the Boston Celtics traded Jaylen Brown this offseason, the move left many questioning the rationale behind such a significant and unexpected decision.
The possibility of the Boston staple moving became increasingly apparent in my eyes after the Giannis Antetokounmpo sweepstakes ended with the former Bucks star landing in Miami. Still, I could never have imagined that the team Brad Stevens ultimately chose to pull the trigger with would be the Celtics’ longtime rival, the Philadelphia 76ers.
Boston ultimately received two future first-round picks and 36-year-old Paul George in the deal. The immediate concerns among the fanbase centered largely on what many perceived as a lack of adequate compensation for a Finals MVP coming off the best statistical season of his career. Other following questions may have included George’s hefty contract and what would he have left in the tank for his next campaign after an impressive playoff run.
Those concerns were understandable, particularly given George’s age and injury history. However, his performance last season offered reason to believe that he can still provide real value, especially defensively.
While he may no longer be the All-Defensive caliber defender he was earlier in his career, George showed that he still possesses the length, instincts and versatility to make an impact against some of the league’s best offensive players. His playoff series against Boston provided perhaps the clearest evidence of that, making it worth taking a closer look at how George showed he can still be a reliable defender heading into next season and why Boston wanted to add him.
Defensive Playmaking
Whether you believe this current roster is closer to contention than last year’s group or not, one thing is difficult to dispute: there is a clear philosophical alignment behind the moves Boston made. Mazzulla Ball is predicated on creating two-on-ones, and at times, three-on-twos, and capitalizing on those advantages. But another critical component of Boston’s identity is its emphasis on winning the possession battle. That means controlling the shot margin in several key areas, most notably by creating and suppressing turnovers and consistently controlling the glass on both ends of the floor.
The green team’s biggest signing this offseason was Mitchell Robinson, who specializes in getting extra possessions and closing them as a rebounder while also being an underrated defender.
Last season Paul George specialized in taking the ball away from the other team.
He ranked in the 98th percentile in both steals (2.7) and deflections (6.5) per 100 possessions illustrating just how disruptive he remained as a perimeter defender.
George’s anticipation, instincts, and ability to read the floor allowed him to create turnovers in a variety of ways, many of which were the product of subtle defensive reads rather than simply gambling for steals. A closer look at the film illustrates just how effective George remained at creating those opportunities.
When watching George’s steals, every attribute mentioned above comes into play. But when you pair his anticipation and instincts with an exceptionally quick trigger to the ball and a 6-foot-11 wingspan, you get a defender who can seemingly appear out of nowhere to make a play on the ball. At times, George looks less like a basketball player and more like a defensive back playing center field, reading the quarterback, anticipating the throw, and using his length to close on the ball before the intended receiver ever has a chance.
He also possesses exceptional reflexes, which, when combined with his wingspan, allow him to seemingly throw a hand into passing lanes at the last possible moment and still come away with a steal or deflection.
His timing as a help defender stood out to me as well. Whether he is serving as the tagger in a pick-and-roll, rotating over as the next defender, or simply sitting in the gap to cut off a driving lane, George consistently demonstrates an understanding of when to commit and when to stay home. His wisdom and other tools allow him to recognize an opening and help and emerge in an instant to help a teammate.
During one of Jaylen Brown’s Twitch streams, he was joined by Celtics wing Jordan Walsh, and while the two were watching highlights, Brown gave the audience a glimpse into one of Boston’s defensive principles.
George should fit neatly into this element Boston emphasized last season. You can see how he attacks the ball as soon as the handler isn’t facing him.
And of course, a prerequisite for most guys wearing green: you have to be willing to be the first to the floor.
While Boston will certainly need George’s off-ball prowess, that is only part of what he brings defensively. On the ball, his overall coverage aggression can smother ball handlers, while his still-impressively quick feet allow him to stay attached and in position to utilize his active hands and exceptional wingspan.
On ball defense
George’s ability to generate steals holds immense value, but it doesn’t provide the full context of him still being a great defender. His ability to stay attached, absorb drives, and contest without conceding easy advantages allows him to consistently make an impact at the point of attack.
When looking at George strictly as an on-ball defender, two areas in particular stand out: his ability to navigate screens and his knack for blowing up actions through ball denial. His combination of footwork, strength, and length allows him to fight through screens while staying attached to his assignment, while his instincts and physical tools make him particularly effective at denying the ball and pushing offensive players well beyond their intended catch points.
First, let’s just enjoy some good defense.
One conclusion I came to while rewatching George’s playoff defense last season is that, when all the components of his on-ball defense are working in concert, he can really influence a player’s shot quality. This helped him post really good shot defense numbers when matched up against some of the best scorers in the Eastern Conference.
As far as screen navigation goes, the common denominator across most of these clips is George’s ability to stay attached. More often than not, he gets into the offensive player’s chest before the screen arrives, putting himself in an ideal position to get skinny and work his way through the screen without losing contact with his assignment. You’ll also regularly see him keep a hand or forearm on his man as he navigates, giving him a constant feel for where the offensive player is and helping him maintain that connection as he continues to work. This also helps him get back in front of his matchup if he ends up getting behind.
When blowing up actions and pushing catch points out through ball denial, George applies that same aggression and stay-attached mentality to make receiving the ball as difficult as possible for the offensive player. This is really good when disrupting handoff actions like Zoom or Miami, but he also can top-lock players looking to use pin down screens and keep them away from other off ball screens.
George’s defensive strengths fit naturally into the way Boston wants to play. His ability to generate turnovers can create the extra possessions the Celtics covet, while his screen navigation, ball pressure, and denial can make opposing offenses work harder simply to get into their actions. At his best, George doesn’t just defend individual players; he can alter the quality and timing of the shots an entire possession produces.
That doesn’t mean the concerns surrounding his age, health, or contract should be dismissed. But if George can stay healthy and consistently tap into the defensive tools, he displayed last season, Boston may have acquired more than an aging star with something left in the tank. They may have added a veteran wing capable of making a meaningful impact on one of the fundamental principles of their defensive identity: making every possession harder to win.
More in-depth breakdown of Paul George’s defense in video form can be found below.
HOUSTON, TEXAS - MAY 01: Amen Thompson #1 of the Houston Rockets celebrates a basket and a foul call during the second quarter against the Los Angeles Lakers in Game Six of the First Round of the NBA Western Conference Playoffs at Toyota Center on May 01, 2026 in Houston, 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 Kenneth Richmond/Getty Images) | Getty Images
I want the answer to be no.
Full transparency: Thompson is my favorite player in the NBA. I’ve not kept that a secret.
Yet, as a writer, I am tethered to reality. Thompson is not the best player in the NBA. He’s not even in that ballpark – at least*, not by any publicly available metric.
*Em dash usage does not denote AI usage.
It seems the Rockets’ proprietary metrics have unearthed a secret. HoopsCollective’s Tim MacMahon is reporting that the Rockets’ own data has Thompson as one of the ten most valuable players in the NBA.
Is that remotely possible?
Rockets’ Thompson has sneaky impact
DataBallr does not share the Rockets’ conviction.
Their Daily Plus/Minus (DPM) metric, which aims to “estimate player impact on expected team scoring differential per 100 possessions, with teammate/opponent effects controlled”, has Thompson at +1.2.
That’s good. It’s in the 92nd percentile. It’s also not even in the same zip code as the top-10. It’s not in the top-30. It’s so far down that I stopped counting, and you’ll have to either do it for yourself or just live with the 92nd percentile.
Dunks and Threes Estimated Plus/Minus (EPM) paints a similar picture. Thompson’s +2.7 is in, again, the 92nd percentile.
It’s sure starting to feel like Thompson is roughly in the 92nd percentile in impact!
Is it possible that, while the publicly available stuff has Thompson in (to reiterate) the 92nd percentile, the Rockets’ internal metrics have him closer to the 98th? You’d have to ask a statistician, but it feels unlikely.
So what’s going on here?
Rockets right to regard Thompson highly
Now, if the Rockets’ actual internal view is that Thompson is one, say, of the last ten NBA players who should be traded, that feels more viable.
Thompson compared favourably to his peers in EPM in 2025-26. Among his draft mates, only Victor Wembanyama (99th) and Brandon Miller (95th) are in higher percentiles. The latter benefited from an elite playmaker in LaMelo Ball, and the former is Victor Wembanyama.
Moreover, that was an especially strong class. Thompson is in the same percentile as notable young guys like Scottie Barnes and Franz Wagner, and he’s ahead of Evan “The Rockets should have picked me” Mobley (89th percentile).
Thompson is also arguably a different type of young player. He was a “project” coming into the league. When it comes to athleticism, Thompson is 100th percentile. His skill development was always the question mark.
How has he fared? It’s complicated. Let’s shift away from fancy acronyms and towards eye-test-based basketball talk.
To my eye, the handle has improved. Thompson can get to the rim from the perimeter with the rock now. It doesn’t look pretty – it’s a bludgeoning style of basketball – but during his first couple of seasons, it looked like cutting without the ball was his only route from A to B.
Here comes the inevitable.
The shot. It was bad; it’s still bad; it’s more likely than not always going to be bad. The midrange efficiency has waxed and waned; the three-ball has fluctuated between “awful” and “Dear God, won’t somebody think of the children?”
It can improve. Chip Engelland seems like the best shot doctor in the league, so that’s nice. Still, even getting Thompson’s shot to a normal level of bad would qualify as an accomplishment.
As long as the jumper is broken, defenses can deploy funky strategies against the Rockets. Some of those strategies would be less effective if the Rockets’ second-best offensive player wasn’t a low-post big, but in equal measure, it will always be a problem if Thompson won’t shoot.
Arguably, it’s too substantial a problem to include him in any reasonable top-10.
I’m not naive. The Rockets likely leaked this information to MacMahon for the sake of postering. It’s also likely true that the organization has no interest in trading Thompson at market value, nor should they.
So…the point? The point…hmmm…
If the Rockets want to “control the message”, they might want to leak more realistic reports.
Even I don’t believe they have Thompson as a top-10 player in the NBA.
BRIGHTON, MA - SEPTEMBER 15: Paul George #13 of the Boston Celtics speaks to the media during a press conference on September 15, 2026 at The Auerbach Center in Brighton, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
Paul George had zero control over his destiny this offseason.
It wasn’t until the Celtics began shopping Jaylen Brown on the trade market that wheels began to turn, ultimately leading to George’s unforeseen move from Philadelphia to Boston. Once the Celtics and Sixers shook hands and agreed to their Brown-George blockbuster on July 1, the 36-year-old’s situation changed dramatically.
He even admitted it was “a bit surprising” when he heard the news.
But George isn’t bothered by the change.
“I understand the circumstances,” George told reporters Tuesday at the Auerbach Center, per NBC Sports Boston.
“I didn’t take it personal, to be honest. They should have a relationship, emotionally, to that trade. But my job here is to come into a great opportunity for me.”
Instead of playing behind Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey in Philadelphia, George carries the burden left by Brown’s exit, which now awaits him at his TD Garden locker in Boston. He isn’t playing third fiddle. As the second-highest-paid Celtic (earning $54.1 million), George is under immense pressure to begin harkening back to the impactful presence he once was, this time as Jayson Tatum’s new running mate.
BRIGHTON, MA – SEPTEMBER 15: Paul George #13 of the Boston Celtics speaks to the media during a press conference on September 15, 2026 at The Auerbach Center in Brighton, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
“Again, no personal feelings towards the initial — how it [was] received here in Boston. To be honest, it’s fair. One foot in front of the other. Hopefully, with how we start this year, they understand this is a new team and something they can be proud of.”
George spent the greater bulk of last season battling a left knee hyperextension which required surgery and sidelined him for 41 games. He rejoined the Sixers just in time to square off against the Celtics in the first round of the playoffs, and delivered a performance that factored significantly into Boston squandering its 3-1 series lead.
During his postseason revival series versus the Celtics, George averaged 17.4 points, four rebounds and three assists while converting 55 percent of his 3-point attempts.
“It just felt like I was able to do things and, quite frankly, it might’ve caught Boston off guard,” George said with a smile while looking toward a stone-faced Mazzulla, “from an expectation that I could no longer move.”
George’s showing last postseason offers an avenue for optimism as Boston approaches a season that’ll need all the positivity it can collect.
The reality is the bright green-colored glasses Boston’s front office handed its fans three offseasons ago have turned dull. George is cognizant of the city-wide reception the Celtics triggered through trading Brown away in a decision that lead governor Bill Chisholm described as a decision “all about trying to win.”
That’s the bar Chisholm set alongside president of basketball operations Brad Stevens during their damage control presser back in July, and a standard George welcomes with open arms.
“I think we’ve got an unbelievable roster, an unbelievable coach, obviously, front office,” George said. “I’ve always admired everything Boston has done and stood for. So I think coming in with that attitude and that mindset to win, I’m all on. I’m happy to pull akong and do my part to try to lead this group back to where everybody here feels and wants.”
Stevens signed veteran guard Mike Conley and center Mitchell Robinson to help keep Boston in the running next season.
But all eyes will be drawn to George.
This upcoming season, much of Boston’s ability to compete in the long run will ride on George — his ability to perform like a No. 2 and stay healthy throughout an 82-game regular season and playoffs. The Celtics are counting on him to take the version of himself that had a hand in ending their season four months ago and maintain it.
“It’s fair to live with that emotion, given what JB stood for and what he brought, and the history,” George said. “He was a part of raising a banner and winning a championship here. That’s gonna forever stick.”
Coming into a situation with increased responsibility in the toughest market the NBA has to offer, George brings the level-headed mindset of a soon-to-be 17-year veteran.
“They’re getting someone that’s ready to not fill the shoes or fill the void of JB, but I think, from a personal standpoint, can still keep us in contention and give us a chance to win,” George added.
The message from Chisholm and Stevens is that the goalpost hasn’t shifted with Brown gone. George, who’s reached the conference finals just three times in his career, has already bought in.
“I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to return to the mic as PA announcer for 76ers for one more season,” Cord said in a statement announcing his return from a — very brief — retirement. “Serving in this role for the past 28 years has been a dream come true, and I have been fortunate to witness so many memorable moments from the best seat in the house. This is going to be a special year, and I can’t wait to be back at Xfinity Mobile Arena with you all. Let’s go, 76ers!”
Perhaps the additions of Jaylen Brown and NBA superstar LeBron James to the Sixers starting rotation helped prompt Cord’s return?
He didn’t say.
But, Cord did note that he still plans to retire from the team — once again — at the end of this upcoming season.
And, before then, he will work with the team to find his replacement through a tryout process that is expected to begin this winter.
MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - NOVEMBER 06: Payton Pritchard #11 of the Boston Celtics drives to the basket while Mike Conley #10 of the Minnesota Timberwolves defends in the fourth quarter at Target Center on November 06, 2023 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Timberwolves defeated the Celtics 114-109 in overtime. 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 David Berding/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Mike Conley and Payton Pritchard have made a connection this summer. Conley revealed at his introductory press conference on Tuesday that they have begun working out together, playing a lot of five-on-five and one-on-one.
“Me and Payton [Pritchard] work a lot,” Conley said. “One-on-one with our workouts. Before practice or before five-on-five, we play [or] hoop or whatever, and we’re talking the game all the time. Like, ‘I should shoot a floater, you should shoot a mid-range shot.’”
Mike Conley might be key in a potential breakout season for Payton Pritchard 👀
Conley was a free agent signing this summer by the Celtics after previously spending his 19-year career with the Grizzlies, the Jazz and, most recently, the Timberwolves. He is going to provide the Celtics veteran leadership and guard depth this season.
Conley also noted that he and Pritchard do different things on the court and it impacts on how he gives some tips to Pritchard.
“Different things that compliment his game, might not compliment mine,” he said. “I recognize that and you just gotta know who you’re talking to and their personality.”
Conley has one of the most effective floaters the NBA has seen. Conley, a lefty, has primarily used his right hand to shoot the floater.
I present to you
every single Mike Conley floater and push shot thus far, all with the right hand pic.twitter.com/xUT1kfLVdt
Last season for the Timberwolves, Conley averaged 4.5 points and 2.9 assists per game in 54 games. He is going to have a role on the Celtics, even with the addition of Devin Carter, because Boston is a bit shorthanded at guard and will need Conley to play at certain points in the season.
Conley had his moments in the playoffs last season. His averages were relatively the same as they were in the regular season, but Minnesota lost a lot of their guards as the playoffs went on and they needed to insert Conley back into the starting lineup. He had 7 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists in Minnesota’s close-out Game 6 win against the Denver Nuggets.
Playing with Pritchard should also help Conley. Payton is a really good player who is ultra-quick. That will help get Conley ready for the season when he has to go against fast guard on either side of the court. They can also learn how to play off one another for when they share the court this season.
The possibility of the NBA adding two more expansion teams continues to gain steam, and it’s expected to happen at record numbers.
According to ESPN NBA insider Shams Charania, the league is advancing into further stages that would grant Las Vegas and Seattle two expansion teams, at deals over $7 billion and $10 billion.
“The NBA and Adam Silver are in deeper and deeper stages of the expansion conversation, and I’m told specifically for Las Vegas, the next round of bids for an expansion team in Las Vegas are due on Thursday, and final bids expected to be some point shortly thereafter,” Charania said. “My understanding is proposals for that Vegas team is reaching and potentially exceeding $10 billion.”
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver speaks about the league potentially expanding to Las Vegas and Seattle Markets. NBAE via Getty ImagesCity of Seattle could be awarde with NBA expansion franchise. Tommy – stock.adobe.com
Charania went on to say that the Vegas process has moved on with more pace than the Seattle, but still believes they will land the other team, that will cost future owners around $7 billion.
“Those Seattle conversations are continuing as well,” Charania said. “Remember, the league has been targeting as soon as the 2028-2029 season for the start of these expansion teams.”
Las Vegas could be rewarded with an NBA expansion franchise. Getty Images
“Now Adam Silver is going to continue the bids process, and it’s unclear when a final vote will be,” Charania said. “I think over the next couple of months we’re going to get clarity on the final offers. …A potential vote to finalize the expansion to 32 teams.”
The possibility of Las Vegas and Seattle being awarded an NBA team should come as no surprise, as the league already has ties to both cities.
Seattle Sonics fans could potentially have their home team back as an NBA expansion franchise. REUTERS
From 1967-2008, Seattle was home to the Super Sonics, who won three Western Conference Titles and one NBA championship in 1979.
The team went on and relocated to Oklahoma City and became the Oklahoma City Thunder after the team was bought by its current owner, Clay Bennett, for $350 million.
Las Vegas’ ties to the NBA date back to 2004, when the league started hosting its annual Summer League there.
The video began with James saying, “Hey, y’all I’m just chilling here, relaxing. And you know, I’m not really having a good day,” only to immediately respond by shouting the words “Sike!”
James followed up his excitement by sharing a scream that echoed across Mike’s Red Taco — a San Diego Taco establishment that is gearing up to open it’s upcoming location in Pasadena.
The reason why James was denied in his trademark attempt was due to the term being considered “a commonplace term.”
According to ESPN, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office said: “The applied-for mark is a commonplace term, message, or expression widely used by a variety of sources that merely conveys an ordinary, familiar, well-recognized concept or sentiment message.”
USPTO went on to inform James’ trademark company that “Taco Tuesday” is a “widely used message used by various parties to express enthusiasm for tacos by promoting and celebrating them on a dedicated weekday.”
LeBron James appears to be enjoying his “Taco Tuesday.” AP Photo/Jessie Alcheh
According to Dave McMenamin of ESPN, his application to trademark the term was to ensure he couldn’t be sued for any use of “Taco Tuesday.”
In the past, James used to share videos of himself and his family eating tacos on social media accounts.
“I love tacos, and I especially love how they bring people together to create traditions and share great moments around the table with family and friends,” James said in a statement released by Fox 5 in San Diego. “In addition to having an incredible taco, Mike’s Red Tacos bring those same values to life in a fresh, new way for consumers.”
Seven years after James was denied in his attempt to trademark the term “Taco Tuesday,” he posted a video of himself scarfing down at least three plates of tacos. Getty Images
While James has been enjoying his time on a fun trip down memory lane, it comes before new beginnings, as he is just two weeks away from joining his new team, the Philadelphia 76ers, for NBA training camp, after he signed with them this past July on a two-year, $8 million deal that includes a player option.
James spent the last eight years of his career with the Lakers, where he averaged 25.9 points, 7.9 assists, and 7.7 rebounds during his Los Angeles tenure.
During the 2019-2020 NBA season, James led the Lakers to their 17th title in franchise history, where he was crowned Finals MVP after averaging 29.8 points, 11.8 rebounds, and 8.5 assists.
Paul George is hoping to have the luck of the Irish.
The NBA veteran was introduced as a member of the Boston Celtics on Tuesday, Sept. 15 in a press conference with president of basketball operations Brad Stevens, head coach Joe Mazzulla and Mike Conley Jr., who also joined the team this offseason. Mitchell Robinson was supposed to be a part of the press conference, but had to tend to a "personal matter."
"Listen, I understand the circumstances," George told the media. "I understand how huge JB was, not only for the organization, but here in the city. So I didn't take it personal. To be honest, they should have a relationship emotionally to that trade."
George, a nine-time All-Star, has been hindered by knee injuries the past two seasons with the Celtics' Atlantic Division rival. The 36-year-old said he feels "great" while reiterating that he has no hard feelings toward fans who aren't giving him a usual hero's welcome after the stunning trade even he admitted was "a bit surprising."
"I feel like I've turned that corner of dealing with injuries and now kinda reestablishing myself from a physical standpoint again and with that, I can carry it over to the court," he said. "So, again, no personal feelings ... just one foot in front of the other. Hopefully with how we start this year, they understand this is a new team and something that they can be proud of."
George, who helped oust the Celtics in the first round of the playoffs last season, said he's getting to know Jayson Tatum, Boston's six-time All-Star and face of the franchise, "organically."
"We have a superstar and that's JT," George said. "I'm not here to, not necessarily steal the shine or try to reinvent who I am. I'm here to help JT. He's the guy."
Mazzulla shared his thoughts on George and Conley joining the team.
"Just excited to be able to have two guys that have been in the league for a long time and learn from their experiences," he said. "Both guys are extremely experienced, have had great coaches, have had great teammates, have been through the wars of an NBA season, regular season and playoffs. Competing against both of them at different times during the season has taught me a lot, has taught my team a lot. ... It's a mutual relationship just based on their pedigree, who they are and what they've been able to accomplish in this league. I think they'll make us better, they'll make me better and hope we can do the same."
Conley gave his perspective on adjusting to Mazzulla's unconventional coaching style and dry personality.
"I thought he was crazy before," he laughed. "Nah, he's not crazy, no. My impressions have been everything that I expected. I think from hearing from some of the players who've played for him, just from around the league, his ideas, he's not afraid to push the envelope a little bit. To try things, to try different schemes and different reactions for players, different ways of getting things across. It's refreshing for me. ... The way he sees the game is a different lens, so I think it's a special thing."
The 38-year-old is entering his 20th season in the league. He was a rookie on the Memphis Grizzlies when Boston won the 2008 NBA Finals with Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen, so he has had a reverence for the Celtics his entire career.
"It was fairly quick, honestly," he said about his decision to join the Celtics as a free agent. "But the main reason, you know, you look around the league, there's very few organizations and teams that you look at that honestly are trying to win every year. The culture here in Boston speaks for itself. The championships, the banners, the fanbase, it encompasses all that. So looking around, I was like, 'Man, what opportunities are out there for me?' Boston was a real one and having the opportunity to play for such a storied franchise, Joe and Brad and all the team, the guys, the players to the staff, A1, top-notch."
George has played 16 seasons in the league and the farthest he's made it in the playoffs is the conference finals. He did so three times, twice with the Indiana Pacers and once with the Los Angeles Clippers. Being around the same age as superstars Kevin Durant, Stephen Curry and Kyrie Irving, he agreed that the aura of the Celtics gives him motivation to prove himself.
"Winning culture, winning environment, winning fanbase, absolutely," he said. "I haven't won yet, so I'm on the other side of that. So the chip on my shoulder is, I believe I'm a winning player. I believe I'm all about winning, being a winning teammate, winning locker room guy. ... I'm a guy that when it's all said and done, where my legacy falls, being compared to guys in my category, I've yet to have something to show for it."
Conley has also yet to win a championship. He reflected on his own NBA journey and shared the hope that their hunger will fuel the team.
"At 20 years, honestly, you want to say like you feel the same as you did when you were a lot younger, but you grow as you get older," he said. "You understand what you can bring at different points in the year. I still got a lot left. I still can do it on the court, off the court. But leadership is one thing I know I can bring. And the urgency I think that even myself and Paul gotta bring for this team as two guys who haven't had a chance to win a championship yet. So it's that sense of urgency that maybe reignites that for the guys who've been on this team who've already won it to kinda continue to push them every day, continue to show them how bad we wanna win."
PHOENIX, ARIZONA - JANUARY 07: Drew Eubanks #14 of the Phoenix Suns reacts after dunking over Desmond Bane #22 of the Memphis Grizzlies and John Konchar #46 during the game at Footprint Center on January 07, 2024 in Phoenix, Arizona. The Grizzlies defeated the Suns 121-115. 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 Chris Coduto/Getty Images) | Getty Images
In a league where everyone seems to have lost their minds, the Knicks have had a quiet offseason. I mean, after you win a championship, why be overtly active when you have everything you need to go back-to-back?
We haven’t heard of a real roster move since the attempt to sign Mavericks center Moussa Cisse to an offer sheet back on July 19, but as training camp approaches in the next few weeks, the Knicks need to figure out who’s filling the final roster spots.
Two of those names who will be competing for that spot will be former Grizzlies wing John Konchar and former Kings forward Drew Eubanks, who were both signed on Tuesday night.
Free agent forward John Konchar has agreed to a one-year deal with the New York Knicks, agent George S. Langberg of @GSLSportsGroup tells ESPN. Konchar is entering his eighth NBA season. pic.twitter.com/gKZ0yDqgBx
Konchar, an undrafted free agent out of Purdue-Fort Wayne in 2019, grew from a little-used role player into a key contributor for several years in Memphis. He played just 62 games in his first two seasons, but began to become a serious member of the rotation in 2021-22.
Across the next three seasons, Konchar averaged 4.8 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.6 assists on 45.7% from the field and 35.5% from three in 199 games (53 starts) for a turbulent team that went from being one of the league’s youngest and brightest to most disappointing. He never played nor contributed much when the playoffs came around, but was soli regular season depth.
He began to be phased out of the rotation in 2024-25, playing just 46 games without any long-term injuries. A sharp regression from downtown (28.4% in 2025-26) made him expendable, leading to him being sent to Utah as part of the Jaren Jackson Jr. trade as expiring salary, where he played out the rest of the season with a crummy, tanking Jazz team.
When things are going right for Konchar, the 6’5” wing plays a lot taller than his height, averaging 8.2 rebounds per 36 with two stocks (steals+blocks). He’s had stretches where he can be a real sniper, shooting over 37% from three on three different occasions, but is also extremely streaky, having shot sub-34% also in three different seasons.
As for Eubanks, affectionately nicknamed the “Michael Jordan of Troutdale, Oregon”, he signed as an undrafted free agent out of Oregon State in 2018 with the San Antonio Spurs, playing 3.5 years as a solid bench player for a transitional era in Spurs basketball before being traded to the Raptors at the 2022 trade deadline for Goran Dragic and a first-round pick, eventually being bought out.
Since then, he’s shuffled around the league. He played the best basketball of his career in 22 games as a starter for the Portland Trail Blazers in late 2022, averaging 14.5 points and 8.5 rebounds, but reverted to the regular role player he’s always been the following year.
He’s played for four different teams over the last three years, making stops in Phoenix, LA (Clippers), Utah, and Sacramento, where he played 42 games last season. In his eight-year career, he’s averaged 5.6 points and 4.3 rebounds on 60.3% from the field.
Now, it’s extremely unlikely that these two players will both make the Opening Night roster, as the Knicks are currently unable to sign two players to standard contracts without exceeding the second apron. It seems like these two will be among the players competing for just one roster spot, with the 6’10” Eubanks likely being the favorite… or is he?
We haven’t gotten the financials, but Konchar is a guy who reportedly got interest from Miami, Orlando, and Toronto. As Ian Begley put it shortly after signing, he likely would not have signed here if he didn’t see a real path towards making the roster, something that the front office would have had to assure him of given the situation.
Could this be the precursor to a trade? Even if nothing is imminent, is this a sign that the Knicks are more willing to trade someone (Deuce McBride?) for a center during training camp?
The Knicks are currently at just 17 players on their training camp roster, with 13 standard deals, these two, Liam Robbins (signed to an Exhibit 10), and Tyler Nickel (likely to be signed to a two-way). They can sign four more.
The Knicks have one open roster spot left (that they can afford under the second apron), and it looks like they'll use it on guard depth.
Veteran guard John Konchar has agreed to a one-year deal with the Knicks, a story first reported by Shams Charania of ESPN and since confirmed by Konchar's agents.
This is likely a non-guaranteed contract, but Konchar had options and would not have signed somewhere he didn't believe he was likely to make the final roster. The Knicks also signed veteran big man Drew Eubanks to a training camp deal, and he is competing for a roster spot, reports the well-connected Ian Begley of SNY.TV.
Konchar is a reliable 6'5" guard who has been in the league for seven years. He plays smart basketball, is a solid rebounder who averaged 4.3 a game last season splitting time between Utah and Memphis, and he is a career 34.9% shooter from 3-point range. That said, he's not much of a scorer (4.3 points per game for his career).
The Knicks have 13 standard contracts on their roster and Konchar brings them to 14 and close to the second apron.
Kawhi Leonard is about to begin his second run with the Toronto Raptors, and it appears to come with a good reason.
According to ESPN NBA insider Shams Charania, Leonard had other potential suitors who wanted to trade for him, but he ultimately chose the Toronto Raptors because of his legacy.
“There were teams — Detroit, Minnesota — others that had interest in trading for him, that wanted to trade for him, that wanted to give him an extension,” Charania said on TSN. “But he made a decision because he had one year left on his deal to essentially weed out where he wanted to play, where he wanted to be. And so this is a legacy play for Kawhi Leonard. There’s no doubt about it.”
Kawhi Leonard is about to begin his second run with the Toronto Raptors, and it appears to come with a good reason. JASON SZENES FOR THE NEW YORK POST
On Monday, Leonard was officially traded by the Clippers to the Raptors in a deal that included Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, two unprotected first-round picks, one first-round pick swap, and two second-round picks.
Originally, Leonard was supposed to be traded by the Clippers to the Raptors in July, but the deal was put on hold as the NBA investigated him, his uncle and former business partner Dennis Robertson, and Clippers owner Steve Ballmer — due to the team attempting to circumvent the NBA Salary Cap.
On Tuesday, NBA commissioner Adam Silver said, “The discipline is final,” after making his first public comments about the punishment.
With the Clippers left in despair, Leonard will be on to new beginnings by rejoining the Raptors, the same team he led to its first NBA Championship in franchise history, during the 2018-2019 season.
The Raptors knocked off the reigning back-to-back champions, the Golden State Warriors in six games, and Leonard was crowned the Finals MVP for the second time in his career after having a dominant series where he averaged 28.5 points, 9.8 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 2 blocks, and 1.2 steals.
The Raptors were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs last year after losing in seven games to the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Leonard was officially traded by the Clippers to the Raptors in a deal that included Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, two unprotected first-round picks, one first-round pick swap, and two second-round picks. Charles Wenzelberg/New York Post
It’s unknown what the offers were like from Detroit and Minnesota, but both teams are coming into the 2026 season as legitimate contenders to win the title this season.
Kawhi Leonard in an NBA game against the Brooklyn Nets while playing with the Los Angeles Clippers. Charles Wenzelberg/New York Post
Detroit finished the regular season as the No.1 seed in the Eastern Conference with a 60-22 record but suffered the same fate as the Raptors and were eliminated in the second round by the Cavaliers.
The general assumption for Detroit is that they needed a star to lead them in the playoffs — a role Leonard is familiar with. But he ultimately chose to return to Toronto.
CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - FEBRUARY 03: Isaiah Wong #21 of the Charlotte Hornets plays against the Washington Wizards during their game at Spectrum Center on February 03, 2025 in Charlotte, North Carolina. 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 Jacob Kupferman/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Dwight Murray Jr. and Isaiah Wong are officially joining the Brooklyn Nets organization. This morning, the team signed both players before waiving them shortly after. The Nets traded for Murray Jr.’s rights earlier this month and then Wong’s two days later.
What might seem like an odd transaction on the surface is actually a move commonly made by NBA teams ahead of training camp. When a team sign-and-waives a player, it secures that player’s G League rights and the opportunity to offer them a cash bonus of $91,000 on top of the G League max of $49,000. It’s highly likely that’s what Brooklyn is doing here to get Murray Jr. and Wong on the Long Island Nets roster. It’s also possible the two will be in Brooklyn for camp.
Murray Jr. has technically been a Net before. He played for Brooklyn in the Summer League this year, appearing in two games where he averaged 5.0 points, 1.5 assists, and 1.5 rebounds per game. He’s also played two seasons in the G-League already. There, he averaged 8.9 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 5.0 assists in 23.5 minutes per game.
‼️OMS CLIENT CONTRACT SIGNING‼️ We are thrilled to announce that our guy, Dwight Murray, Jr. @lildwight_23 has officially signed his second NBA Exhibit 10 Contract! He has come to terms with the Brooklyn Nets @BrooklynNets who he spent the 2026 NBA Summer League with!
Wong, however, has more experience at the pro level. He’s appeared in 21 NBA games over the past two seasons, including 20 with the Charlotte Hornets during their 2024-25 campaign. He’s also spent time in the Utah Jazz and Indiana Pacers organizations. In the G-League, he’s played 59 games while averaging 16.9 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 3.4 assists in 28.9 minutes per game.
After Charlotte didn’t renew his deal last season, he went overseas, playing first in Lithuania with Zalgiris, a Euroleague team, then in Spain with Gran Canaria. Wong averaged 14.6 points a game along with two assists and two rebounds. Wong’s grandfather was Chinese.
After filling their final two-way slot almost two weeks ago via Grant Nelson, the Nets certainly appear focused on solidifying their G-League roster here in September. Brooklyn’s training camp opens on September 29. Long Island’s a month later. The NBA G-League regular season begins on November 6.
At 6-foot-5 and 210 pounds, Konchar is bigger than most guards coach Mike Brown can put on the floor. He guards multiple positions and rebounds like a forward, not a backcourt piece.
The signing gets the defending champion Knicks to 14 players on standard contracts, with training camp opening Oct. 1 and roughly $3.2 million of room left below the second apron.
Konchar is entering his eighth NBA season. Though he plays different positions, he essentially replaces Mitchell Robinson, who left this offseason for a three-year, $47 million deal with the Celtics.
Last season, split between Memphis and Utah, Konchar averaged 4.4 points, 4.3 rebounds, 2.1 assists and 1.5 steals in 56 games. He got more run in Utah and made it count, shooting 44.5% and posting a career-high 5.9 points a game.
According to reports, the Heat, Magic and Raptors were interested in him as well. The Knicks got him for the price of a roster spot, and got a body who can do a little of everything.
Konchar went undrafted out of Purdue-Fort Wayne in 2019, and he has had a long, winding road to Madison Square Garden. Memphis traded him to Utah in February. Utah traded him to Minnesota in August with Cody Williams for Josh Green and cash. Minnesota waived him the same day to free up the money to fit Jonathan Kuminga under the second apron.
