During a conversation with USA TODAY Sports, former BYU star AJ Dybantsa stated that he is confident he will go No. 1 overall in the 2026 NBA Draft.
However, in this one-on-one interview, Dybantsa also admitted that he knows there is a wide range of outcomes that can happen at Barclays Center in Brooklyn on June 23.
"I'm super confident in myself being the No. 1 pick. But you never know. There's been crazy stuff that happens on draft night," Dybantsa told USA TODAY Sports.
However, per Charania, Kansas guard Darryn Peterson has only visited with the Wizards and does not plan to grant any other franchise a workout. Charania reported that both players expect to hear their name called at No. 1 overall.
Dybantsa told USA TODAY Sports why he, unlike Peterson, chose to visit with both of the teams selecting at the top of the draft. The Julius Erving Award winner has long ties to Utah: He played collegiate basketball at BYU (where Jazz governor Ryan Smith and CEO Danny Ainge are alumni and boosters) and he attended Utah Prep Academy for his final year of high school.
"You never want to just be too stuck on just on going to visit one team, in my opinion. You want to visit different teams and see what they have to offer," Dybantsa explained.
On an episode of The Hoop Collective podcast, ESPN's Brian Windhorst shared a photograph that AJ's father, Ace Dybantsa, sent him via text message. In the picture, there is a T-shirt for both the Wizards and Jazz.
Washington's front office will control the cards and are reportedly not expected to make a final decision on their preferred pick until closer to the night of the draft, according to The Athletic. Utah's front office, meanwhile, will have an immediate decision to make when they're on the clock.
Additionally, per The Athletic, the Jazz are "genuinely torn" between Dybantsa, Peterson and national collegiate player of the year Cameron Boozer. They reportedly "won't hesitate" to select Peterson if they feel he is the best fit despite not conducting a pre-draft workout with the guard.
"You're not really in control. The team's in control," Dybantsa said. "Any team I go to, I'm going to bring a bunch of versatility, offensively and defensively. If it's the number one team, if it's the number ten team, I'm going to bring the same thing."
Boston, MA - January 28 - Atlanta Hawks forward Onyeka Okongwu (17) lets the ball get loose as Boston Celtics guards Jordan Walsh (27), Hugo Gonzalez (28) and Baylor Scheierman (55) surround during the second half of a NBA game at the Garden. (Photo By Matt Stone/MediaNews Group/Boston Herald via Getty Images). | MediaNews Group via Getty Images
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The big name in any Celtics trade rumor right now is Jaylen Brown’s. After a career year and another All-NBA season, he’s been linked in a deal for Giannis Antetokounmpo and his max contact could also be broken up into more manageable pieces if the front office decides to priority depth.
However, Boston could package other players together in order to land a big fish. In an unexpected 56-win season, young players like Baylor Scheierman, Hugo Gonzalez, Jordan Walsh, and Ron Harper Jr. proved that they could be contributors to a winning team.
BOSTON – MAY 7: (L-R) Paul Pierce #34, Rajon Rondo #9, Kevin Garnett #5, Ray Allen #20 and Kendrick Perkins #43 of the Boston Celtics huddle together in Game Three of the Eastern Conference Semifinals against the Cleveland Cavaliers during the 2010 NBA Playoffs on May 7, 2010 at TD Banknorth Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. The Cavaliers won 124-95. 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 2010 NBAE (Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
When Danny Ainge made the move to get Kevin Garnett back in 2007, Rajon Rondo was a redline in negotiations with the Timberwolves. A young RR and Kendrick Perkins would later join the Big Three in the starting lineup and raise Banner 17 the following summer.
So, if you’re Brad Stevens and looking to reshape the roster, who are you not including in a trade? The everyman in Scheierman that can do a little bit of everything? How about Walsh and his A-plus defense a la Tony Allen? Did Gonzalez show enough in his rookie season to make him untouchable?
CLEVELAND, OHIO - JANUARY 28: Donovan Mitchell #45 of the Cleveland Cavaliers guards LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers during the fourth quarter at Rocket Arena on January 28, 2026 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Cavaliers defeated the Lakers 129-99. 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
The Cleveland Cavaliers are looking for ways to improve their roster after being swept in the Eastern Conference Finals by the eventual champion New York Knicks. One of the players that could provide an instant upgrade for the Cavs would be 41-year-old free agent LeBron James, who’s still playing at an All-Star level.
However, a third stint in Cleveland doesn’t seem to be on the horizon. All signs point to James re-signing with the Los Angeles Lakers.
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Bringing James back to Cleveland would’ve been tricky. They’re currently over the second apron and wouldn’t be able to bring him back on anything above a veteran minimum contract. However, if there is interest on both sides, it would be possible to make something work.
As of now, the Cavs haven’t shed the salary they would need to make a reunion with James possible. Trading role players like Dennis Schroder or Max Strus (who will be entering the last year of his contract) would be the first steps if you wanted to clear salary space for a possible James reunion. At the same time, trading either or both players may be in the best interest of the team anyway, given their cap situation.
Things can change quickly in the NBA. But as of now, it seems like James won’t be coming back to save the Cavs for a third time.
James averaged 20.9 points, 7.2 assists, and 6.1 rebounds on .515/.317/.737 shooting splits in 60 games last regular season. In the playoffs, James produced 23.2 points, 7.3 assists, and 6.7 rebounds on .458/.327/.746 shooting splits for a shorthanded Lakers team that was missing Luka Doncic in the postseason.
But as Jalen Brunson and his teammates make their way up Broadway, they won’t just be celebrating a title, they’ll be traveling one of the most storied stretches of road in American history.
Here's a look at the history of New York City's famous Canyon of Heroes.
Long before championship floats and organized celebrations, New York’s signature tradition began with a spontaneous moment.
In 1886, during festivities marking the unveiling of the Statue of Liberty, office workers in Lower Manhattan tossed ticker tape — thin strips of paper used by stock machines — out of their windows, according to Alliance for Downtown New York, an advocacy group. The paper blew through the narrow streets, creating what historians describe as a blizzard or snow-globe effect.
By the early 20th century, ticker-tape parades are now official civic events reserved for historic moments and celebrated figures. The route along Broadway, stretching from Battery Park to City Hall, runs through the Financial District. Lined with towering skyscrapers, the narrow corridor became known as the "Canyon of Heroes" which also includes over 200 black granite plaques that commemorate and list every single ticker tape parade in New York City history.
Who has received a ticker-tape parade?
The city has hosted more than 200 such parades for more than 125 years, honoring everyone from military heroes and presidents to athletes and astronauts.
The first individual honored was Admiral George Dewey in 1899, drawing massive crowds after his Spanish-American War victory.
Albert Einstein (1921), the only scientist to receive the honor
Charles Lindbergh after his 1927 transatlantic flight
Jesse Owens and the U.S. Olympic team in 1936 after the Berlin Games
V-J Day in 1945, marking the Allied victory over Japan
Winston Churchill in 1946, symbolizing Allied leadership
Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip during their U.S. visit
The Apollo 11 astronauts following the 1969 moon landing
The 1969 "Miracle Mets"
American hostages released from Iran in 1981
"Hometown Heroes," honoring essential workers during COVID-19 in 2021
The New York Liberty after their 2024 WNBA championship
How much confetti is expected for the Knicks parade?
Expect a blizzard.
Roughly 2,500 pounds of shredded, recycled paper will flutter down on the Canyon of Heroes as the Knicks make their way from Battery Park to City Hall to collect the Keys to City from Mayor Zohran Mamdani.
In the lead-up to the parade, the Downtown Alliance distributed 256 bags of confetti to roughly 25 office buildings along the route, where workers and volunteers will toss it from windows overhead, according to PIX11.
City officials expect the celebration, and the confetti amount, to match the scale of the moment.
"It may well be the largest parade in New York City history," Mamdani said.
MIAMI, FLORIDA - NOVEMBER 6: Former teammates LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers and Kevin Love #42 of the Miami Heat hug after the game on November 6, 2023 at Kaseya Center in Miami, Florida. 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 2023 NBAE (Photo by Eric Espada/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
As free agency nears, it’s become evident that the most likely outcome for LeBron James is that he continues his career as a Laker.
During Wednesday’s episode of ESPN’s “NBA Today,” longtime NBA journalist Marc J. Spears stated that not only does he believe LeBron will return to Los Angeles, but Kevin Love could be joining him.
"I'm hearing that [LeBron's] likely coming back [to the Lakers]. … Kevin Love could likely be joining the Lakers too."@MarcJSpears gives some insight on what could be next for LeBron 🏀 pic.twitter.com/EV1Qwqiixf
While the kind of numbers LeBron could be receiving on his new deal is still unknown, it’s no surprise that he is likely to return. He’s been with the franchise for eight seasons, has won a title in LA, his son is on the team and he is still playing at a high level, averaging 20.9 points, 6.1 rebounds and 7.2 assists per game.
With Luka Dončić now the franchise player, LeBron can continue helping the Lakers transition into this new era while remaining on a team with title aspirations. The partnership between the Lakers and LeBron remains beneficial for both parties.
Now, what is surprising is hearing that Love could be joining the Lakers.
Love has been connected to the Lakers before, with reports indicating LA wanted to sign him back in 2015, but that never happened. Instead, Love signed a long-term deal with the Cavaliers and went on to win a title with LeBron in 2016.
Clearly, the bond between James and LeBron remains strong, and it is likely one of the reasons he would want to join the purple and gold next season.
At his age, Love is no longer putting up numbers anywhere near his career averages. He averaged just 6.7 points and 5.8 rebounds for the tanking Jazz this past season.
However, he would come in to be a veteran and an end-of-the-bench big man who can provide leadership to this team. Considering that Love has 16 years of NBA experience, he could help teach young players how to be pros and serve as one of the team’s vocal leaders.
A lot can change between now and when free agency begins, but bringing back LeBron would be a big win for LA, and Love coming on as a veteran would be a nice addition as well.
Jose Alvarado is ready to follow the Knicks’ lead if a White House visit comes together.
The Knicks guard said in a TMZ interview that he would be open to making the trip to Washington, D.C., if the newly crowned NBA champions decide to go as a team.
“If there’s a chance, I’m going wherever my teammate goes,” Alvarado told TMZ Sports while leaving iHeart studios in New York.
Jose Alvarado holds the NBA Finals trophy draped in a Puerto Rican flag. Getty Images
The question came just days after the Knicks finished off the Spurs on Saturday to win the NBA Finals, setting off a week of celebrations across the city.
Championship teams have traditionally been invited to the White House, though the custom has become more complicated in recent years, with some teams skipping the visit or sending limited groups.
President Donald Trump watches Game 3 of the NBA Finals basketball series between the New York Knicks and the San Antonio Spurs at Madison Square Garden. AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein
There has not yet been a reported invitation for the Knicks, but President Trump attended Game 3 of the NBA Finals at Madison Square Garden after receiving an invite from team owner James Dolan.
Alvarado’s answer suggested he is not looking to make an individual statement either way.
Instead, the 28-year-old said he would go with whatever the group decides.
Knicks' Jose Alvarado weighs in on the potential White House visit after NBA finals win. pic.twitter.com/f0Bi3ElC9H
Jordyn Woods said her lucky bag has "seen better days" after it made the rounds during the Knicks' 2026 NBA Championship run, and that she's "hanging it in the rafters" following the team's championship parade on Thursday.
Jordyn Woods said her lucky bag has “seen better days” after it made the rounds during the Knicks’ 2026 NBA Championship run, and that she’s “hanging it in the rafters” following the team’s championship parade on Thursday.
Woods, engaged to Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns, accessorized with the sold out Tux Clutch Mini Summer Citrus in the color orange ostrich at nearly every game during the Knicks’ playoff run — including New York’s 13-game win streak — and it became an unofficial good luck charm for fans.
“I made this sample [of the bag] for the [NBA] playoffs from my brand, Woods by Jordan, and I started wearing it — we won a game, it became a superstition to me,” Woods said during an appearance on “TODAY with Jenna & Sheinelle” on Wednesday, with her bag in tow.
Jordyn Woods discussed her lucky bag during an appearance on “TODAY with Jenna and Sheinelle” on Wednesday June 17, 2026. YouTube/TODAY
“And then it really went viral when I couldn’t bring it to the game [the Spurs’ 115-111 Game 3 win over the Knicks] and it was the first game we lost in 50 days or something. So that’s when the phenomenon really came when we lost and I couldn’t bring my bag.
“After tomorrow I’m going to hang it in the rafters — the parade, it will come, and then I think she needs a rest. She’s been working overtime.”
Jordyn Woods’ lucky bag that she carried during the Knicks’ 2026 NBA championship run featured on her appearance on “TODAY with Jenna and Sheinelle” on Wednesday June 17, 2026. YouTube/TODAY
Some Knicks faithful were nervous when Woods didn’t bring the bag to Game 3 of the NBA Finals at Madison Square Garden due to heightened security and a temporary no-bag policy because President Donald Trump attended.
Woods, who debuted the bag at the beginning of the playoffs in April, brought it to the Knicks’ 94-90 Game 5 victory over the Spurs on Saturday night in San Antonio, which secured their first championship in 53 years.
Jordyn Woods on celebrity row during the second quarter of the Knicks-Hawks first round playoff series, Game 1, at Madison Square Garden on April 18, 2026. Charles Wenzelberg / New York PostNew York City, NY jordyn woods arrives at Madison Square Garden for the conference finals Game 2 of the New York Knicks vs Cleveland Cavaliers playoff series on May 21, 2026. UrbanxDivinity / BACKGRID
The bag is sold out on Woods’ website, along with two other colors, blue ostrich and black croco.
It can be preordered and is expected to ship in September, according to a notice, entitled “Lucky Bag Pre-Orders,” on the website, adding that there is “unprecedented demand” for the bag.
“The response to the lucky bag (Tux Clutch Mini) has been truly incredible, and we are so grateful for the overwhelming love and support,” it read. “We were honestly shocked by the extraordinary response.
Jordyn Woods, Kit Harington and Karl-Anthony Towns #32 of the New York Knicks pose for a photo after the game against the Atlanta Hawks during round one, Game 1 of the 2026 NBA Playoffs on April 18, 2026 at Madison Square Garden in New York City. NBAE via Getty Images
“As a result we have had to set the product as “made-to-order” this way everyone who wants the lucky bag has an opportunity to purchase it.”
The Knicks’ championship parade will be held in New York City on Thursday, starting at 10 a.m. ET.
SAN ANTONIO, TX - JUNE 3 Dylan Harper #2, Victor Wembanyama #1, De'Aaron Fox #4, Stephon Castle #5 and Julian Champagnie #30 of the San Antonio Spurs looks on during the game against the New York Knicks during Game One of the 2026 NBA Finals on June 3, 2026 at Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, 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. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE(Photo by Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
The beauty of the 2025/26 Spurs season was that it brought back expectations. For half a decade, San Antonio lay dormant as it recovered from the Kawhi Leonard fiasco, putting together respectable but unremarkable teams as it seemed to look for a sign, a path. Some beloved veterans and homegrown young guys had to leave to allow for the creation of a burgeoning contender, led by Victor Wembanyama.
Nothing could have prepared the fanbase, and likely the organization, for what was to come. Instead of just making the playoffs in Wemby’s third year, the goals shifted as the Spurs proved much better than anticipated. The modest expectations somewhat reluctantly evolved, and the chance for elation and heartbreak increased. In a short period of time, San Antonio went from the team of the future to a legitimate contender, which not only reached the Finals but could have won them.
The ascendance looks predetermined now, but it wasn’t the case early on. It seems ancient history by now, but the Spurs came into the season with some serious question marks. Victor Wembanyama missed the end of the past year with deep vein thrombosis and didn’t have time to gel with the new acquisition, De’aaron Fox. Jeremy Sochan, then considered a core piece, was hurt while training with the Polish national team, bringing further uncertainty to the forward spot, a noticeable weakness. San Antonio had made a somewhat controversial pick in the draft by selecting a point guard, Dylan Harper, second overall, adding a special talent but creating a logjam in the backcourt. Finally, Mitch Johnson, a rookie head coach, stuck around without the interim tag.
The preseason predictions of an around .500 team seemed prudent. Early injuries made it impossible to figure out just how good the Silver and Black could be right off the bat, but there was a sense that the team could surprise. It would take a while to see how Fox and Wembanyama fit together, but even with changes to the starting lineup, San Antonio got off to a good start. The Spurs won eight of the first 10, with a star-making performance by The Alien on opening night and a few up-and-down games. As Wemby got hurt, the team could have taken a nosedive down the standings, but didn’t. Luke Kornet, the big free agency addition, held down the fort inside and Fox showed off his scoring prowess on an expanded offensive role. A quarter into the season, the Silver and Black had one of the best records in the West despite serious absences.
There were some impressive wins along the way, but also a few losses to prospective playoff teams that suggested caution about the team’s ceiling was valid. Those concerns disappeared as the Spurs beat the Thunder three times in a row without Wembanyama, largely on the strength of their guard play and displaying the identity that would make them a nightmare to face. San Antonio emerged as a tenacious defensive team with the youth to pressure the rim and run, the talent in the backcourt to match up with anyone, and a game-changing defensive player in Wembanyama who looked like a superstar when he was available. The run-up to the Emirates NBA Cup Finals showed they also had the confidence to win big games, and while the loss to the Knicks foreshadowed how the Silver and Black’s season would end, by the mid-point, it was clear the Spurs had arrived.
It wasn’t all perfect, of course. The young guards could not shoot from outside, which forced Fox to an off-ball role more often than it would have been ideal. Sochan had lost ground in Mitch Johnson’s consideration because he, too, struggled to space the floor and didn’t fit well with Kornet off the bench. Rookie Carter Bryant was force-fed some minutes and looked clueless, and Harrison Barnes was showing signs of slowing down after a brilliant start. With the trade deadline nearing, a move to fortify the forward rotation, which seemed like a weakness despite Keldon Johnson’s productive year, felt appropriate. The front office disagreed or couldn’t find the right offer. Sochan was waived, and soon after, Julian Champagnie took over the starting big forward spot from Barnes, a change that proved sufficient to help San Antonio separate from the pack in the West.
The Spurs returned to the playoffs after seven years as the second seed in the West and faced the outmatched Trail Blazers, which came out of the play-in. They easily took care of business despite missing Wembanyama for a game due to a concussion. The second round was supposed to be their big test, as a loss to the Nuggets in the last game of the regular season put San Antonio on a collision course with the consensus third-best team in the conference. Instead, it was the Timberwolves who were there after eliminating Denver in a battle of injured teams. It was a tougher matchup, as the physicality increased, leading to a frustrated Wembanyama throwing a dangerous elbow to Naz Reid that got him ejected but not suspended. Ultimately, Minnesota didn’t have enough firepower with Anthony Edwards limited, and the Spurs advanced to the conference finals, giving everyone the matchup they were waiting for.
Thunder-Spurs didn’t disappoint. Game 1 was an instant classic, and the two West young superpowers traded blows in a series marked by physical play, momentum swings, and a coaching chess match. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the recently crowned two-time MVP, took advantage of an aggressive San Antonio defense geared toward stopping his scoring to set up his teammates, until Mitch Johnson adjusted. Wembanyama saw all kinds of defenders on him, from big guards to centers. Oklahoma City, despite missing their second-best player, Jalen Williams, and his natural replacement, Ajay Mitchell, got a 3-2 lead in the series, and the Silver and Black’s chances weren’t looking great. Once again, the Spurs surprised everyone with their poise, as Wembanyama led the way while other players took turns stepping up to secure a comeback win that made them the favorites to win the title.
Unfortunately, the dream run ended there. The Knicks came out of the East and were a terrible matchup for a much smaller San Antonio team. The Spurs put up a fight, always leading at some point and occasionally by double digits, but couldn’t hold on, making mistakes at the worst possible times and lacking the depth to survive the non-Wembanyama stretches. Every game was similar to the next, and the result was the same in all but one. New York always had an answer and never stopped fighting despite big deficits, giving itself a chance to out-execute its opponent late. Even in a game in which the Spurs led by 29, they just kept fighting, waiting for their opportunity to pounce, and taking advantage of it once it presented itself. Jalen Brunson, who struggled with efficiency early in the series, was an assassin when it counted, and all of San Antonio’s weaknesses manifested at the same time.
Despite the rough ending, it was a memorable season for the Spurs. They returned to the playoffs, made their deepest run in over a decade, saw Wembanyama emerge as a true superstar, and the two young guards as potentially great running mates. The 4-1 end result in the Finals doesn’t truly show how close they were to the Larry O’Brien and their sixth banner. And few, if any, teams looked better set up for the future.
At the same time, it can feel like a wasted opportunity in which the Spurs’ patience, one of their most praised virtues, might have backfired. A small addition at the deadline, a more developed offensive system installed despite the youth of a sizable part of the roster, and more direct involvement from the coaching staff to orchestrate things in key moments could have resulted in a title.
It’s all a matter of perspective. The league has more parity than ever, and it should continue to do so since the tools to build dynasties appear to have been legislated out of the game. In that context, a Finals appearance can be seen as a prize in itself, especially for such a young team. It can also be seen as a precious and rare chance to secure a title at a time when doing so can be considered harder than ever, even with talented rosters. And the Spurs couldn’t capitalize on it.
The hope is that the lessons learned along the way will help San Antonio do what many others are struggling to accomplish: build a lasting contender that has multiple opportunities to win it all. The talent is there. Now it’s time to build around it.
The Draft is six days away and there’s no real consensus on who the Nets like. Sure Mikel Brown Jr. appears to be gaining ground but who knows if he’ll be there at No. 6.
So, let’s talk about free agency!
In one of his occasional intelligence notes, Hoopshype’s Mike Scotto talked about a couple of moves Brooklyn could move, including a possible trade of the Nets’ senior player, the only one who was around for the Clean Sweep, the arrival and departure of the Big Three and tank, Nic Claxton. He starts by sharing what he knows about the Hornets interest in the Blazers Donatus Sabonis, then looks at who else might be appealing to Charlotte.
However, Charlotte has been resistant to including one of their two first-round picks in this year’s draft (No. 14 and 18) in Sabonis trade talks. Initial talks between the Kings and Hornets surrounding Sabonis and Charlotte’s unwillingness to include a first-round pick in the talks were first reported by Sam Amick of The Athletic.
With Charlotte considering a starting-caliber center upgrade, other centers besides Sabonis are on their radar, including Brooklyn Nets center Nic Claxton, league sources told HoopsHype. In addition, it’s worth noting that the Nets have expressed interest in Hornets free agent guard Coby White in the past when he was on the Chicago Bulls, sources said.
For the record, Claxton, 27, has two seasons left on his four-year, $97.0 million contract — $23.3 million in 2026-27 and $21.1 million in 2027-28. In 69 games last season, he averaged 11.7 points and 6.9 rebounds, both near the low end of his seven-year career, as well at 1.1 blocks, his lowest production since his rookie year when he played only 16 games. On the other hand, his 3.7 assists were nearly double his previous yearly high.
White, a year younger, is an unrestricted free agent so we’re not talking about a trade unless it’s a sign-and-trade which carries its own restrictions going forward. White last season made about $10 million less than Claxton but but missed 32 games in an injury-plagued season, the most of his career, while playing only 25 minutes a game, the lowest in his seven years. His numbers were in line with his career, averaging 17.4 points on 45/26/82 splits.
What the Hornets expecting when they traded Collin Sexton and Ousmane Dieng plus three second-round picks was the player White had been the previous two seasons, when he averaged 19.7 points, 4.8 assists and 4.1 rebounds in 34.8 minutes while hitting 45.o percent of his shots and 37.3 percent of his 3-pointers.
While intriguing on its face, the switch-out doesn’t seem to make sense for the Nets, absent another move or moves. They’d be giving up their only rim protector for a player who at the moment doesn’t seem to fit with their timeline, considering how many playmakers they took in last year’s Draft and how they may add to that number on June 23.
Scotto also joined other writers, like Dan Woike and Tim Bontemps in talking about Nets interest in the Lakers Austin Reaves.
Reaves has put himself in a position to earn a projected salary of over $40 million per season. Reaves can sign for up to a five-year, projected $239 million deal with the Lakers or a four-year, $177 million deal with another team.
The Athletic’s Dan Woike mentioned the Brooklyn Nets are expected to offer Reaves a four-year, max deal and also reported the Atlanta Hawks and Detroit Pistons are interested in pursuing Reaves.
Brooklyn has Reaves on their radar and has the clearest path to offering a max contract outright in free agency with cap space.
Reaves first step will have to be declining his $14.9 million player option next year, which is seen as a formality. Once that happens, we may see some action.
DALLAS, TEXAS - MARCH 23: Kristaps Porzingis #7 of the Golden State Warriors looks on prior to the game against the Dallas Mavericks at American Airlines Center on March 23, 2026 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 Sam Hodde/Getty Images) | Getty Images
In today’s Dub Hub:
According to ESPN’s Anthony Slater, the Warriors are interested in re-signing unrestricted free agent Kristaps Porzingis at a “reduced rate.”
While most of the offseason attention is currently focused on the upcoming NBA Draft, the end of the NBA Finals also marked the beginning of teams being able to negotiate with their own free agents.
For the Golden State Warriors, that means entering discussions with one of their biggest acquisitions from last season’s trade deadline: 7-foot-2 center Kristaps Porzingis. The veteran big man is set to enter unrestricted free agency this summer, but according to ESPN’s Anthony Slater, talks between the Warriors and Porzingis have reportedly been trending in a positive direction, with “growing momentum” toward a deal to return.
That is part of the equation in their current discussion with impending free agent Kristaps Porzingis, who they have been able to negotiate after the NBA Finals ended. The Warriors, team sources said, want to bring back Porzingis but prefer it to be on a short-term deal at a reduced rate from the $30.7 million he played for last season. There is growing momentum toward a deal to bring Porzingis back, league sources said.
As Slater notes, the Warriors, however, would prefer to retain Porzingis at a lower salary than the $30.7 million he made last season. Given his extensive injury history and the fact that he appeared in just 32 regular-season games last year, a shorter-term prove-it type contract could make sense for both sides.
When healthy, the 30-year-old Latvian big man proved to be a nice fit alongside the Warriors’ core. In 15 games with Golden State, he averaged 16.1 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game while providing a credible three-point and lob threat from the center position.
The Warriors have several important roster decisions to make this summer, but Porzingis’ free agency could end up being one of the more underrated storylines of the offseason. If the two sides can find common ground on a new deal, Golden State could keep some continuity and retain one of their more intriguing frontcourt pieces heading into next season.
For more on this and other news around the NBA, here is our latest news round-up for Wednesday, June 17th:
During the three weeks of bigger picture conversation that ultimately led Steve Kerr to return as coach of the Golden State Warriors, sources in the front office expressed slight surprise about Kerr’s steadfast agreement that long-term organizational prudence is needed despite what sets up as an urgent final chapter.
Don’t mortgage the future for the present. Don’t throw around first-round picks for marginal upgrades.
“It’s what should’ve been done four years ago,” one high-ranking team source said. “But not now.”
He’s likely looking at a one- or two-year deal at this point because of the health questions, and valuations around the non-taxpayer MLE. The Warriors have Bird rights on Porziņģis, and he seems to fit as well there as he would anywhere else; something in the area of two years and $25 million to $30 million seems fair and would put him on a similar timeline to the rest of the Warriors’ vets.
The Utah Jazz are “genuinely torn” between selecting AJ Dybantsa, Cameron Boozer or Darryn Peterson one week away from the NBA Draft, league sources told The Athletic.
Dybantsa, Boozer and Peterson are the consensus top three players on the board. The Jazz hold the No. 2 pick while the Washington Wizards hold the top pick, and the Memphis Grizzlies select at No. 3. The Jazz have had Dybantsa and Boozer for private workouts, according to league sources. Peterson canceled his workout this week amid reports that he believes he will be the No. 1 pick, and he hopes the Wizards select him.
Knicks-Spurs was the most-watched NBA Finals in 28 years, averaging 20.6 million viewers per game on ABC and ESPN. The Knicks’ series-clinching win in Game 5 averaged 24.5 million viewers and peaked with 33 million viewers — marking the most-watched Game 5 in 28 years. The league… pic.twitter.com/d8pjBS2aaC
While the Dubs are actively scouting potential players — many signs point to Michigan star Yaxel Lendeborg — there’s also the possibility of trading the pick. We all know that the Warriors will be star-hunting this offseason, even if the Giannis Antetokounmpo rumors have calmed down significantly.
So we want to know your opinion: should the Warriors trade the pick and add some young — but unproven — talent? Or should they trade it in pursuit of a more win-now player? Let us know!
Follow@unstoppablebaby on X for all the latest news on the Golden State Warriors.
BOSTON, MA - APRIL 28: The sneakers worn by Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics during the game against the Philadelphia 76ers during Round One Game Five of the 2026 NBA Playoffs on April 28, 2026 at TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by David Dow/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
The New York Knicks will visit the White House to celebrate their NBA championship, an administration official confirmed to NBC News on Wednesday.
President Donald Trump’s hometown team will be the first NBA champions to visit the White House during either of his terms in office.
Knicks owner James Dolan first shared the news in an interview with WFAN sports radio Wednesday.
“We just did receive an invitation from the White House, which we accepted,” Dolan said. “We still have to figure out the details, etc., but yes, of course.”
A White House official told NBC News on Wednesday that administration officials have “been in touch with the Knicks and look forward to hosting the team at a date to be determined in the near future.”
Dolan on Wednesday touted his relationship with Trump, whom he invited to attend Game 3 of the NBA Finals at Madison Square Garden on June 8.
“Look, I invited the president to come down for the game. He is a friend. I’ve known him for 30 years, and I’m very proud to bring the team to the White House,” Dolan said.
Trump was booed at the game, the only one the Knicks lost to the San Antonio Spurs during the five-game series.
He watched the game from Dolan’s box, where he was joined by several administration officials, including Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, White House deputy chief of staff Dan Scavino and Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin.
Trump celebrated the Knicks’ championship early Sunday on Truth Social, congratulating Dolan and top players Jalen Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns, OG Anunoby and Mitchell Robinson.
“What a year it has been but, even more so, what incredible playoff wins we have all witnessed, especially the last four — Maybe the greatest in the history of basketball,” he wrote.
The Knicks are expected to visit the White House after NBA championship-winning teams skipped the meeting for years, starting with the Golden State Warriors in 2017.
Star player Stephen Curry said in September 2017 that he was not interested in visiting Trump’s White House, sparking a furious social media post from Trump.
“Going to the White House is considered a great honor for a championship team. Stephen Curry is hesitating, therefore invitation is withdrawn!” Trump wrote on X in September 2017.
The Warriors did not visit the White House the next year after they won the championship again. The Toronto Raptors did not attend the White House after their 2019 win, either.
In 2020, the Los Angeles Lakers’ championship win was delayed by the Covid-19 pandemic, and the team did not visit the White House. However, Trump told reporters in 2018 he would not invite Lakers player LeBron James to the White House after James stood behind Curry’s criticisms.
When Trump returned to office last year, the Oklahoma City Thunder said they would not visit the White House after their championship win because of “timing” issues.
Three teams visited during President Joe Biden’s term — the Milwaukee Bucks, the Warriors and the Boston Celtics in 2021, 2023 and 2024, respectively.
As much as anyone, Bridges has earned the right to soak in this Knicks championship.
For most of his first 20 months with New York, Bridges was scrutinized, criticized, and demonized for his play. He was most closely associated with the phrase "five first-round picks," which is what New York gave up to acquire him from Brooklyn.
Obviously, most Knicks fans are looking at him through a different lens these days.
Bridges’ play was pivotal in the Knicks' 2026 playoff run.
He averaged 16 points, 3.0 assists and 1.3 steals during New York’s 13-game winning streak. Bridges also played exceptional defense, helping the Knicks establish a net rating of +15.5 when he was on the floor.
He also was one of a select group of Knicks who hit shots in the Game 5 clincher (14 points, four assists).
After that game, as he was walking off the floor, Bridges greeted a group of fans in the stands who were chanting ‘f--k them picks.’
But it also revealed something important about Bridges’ mindset.
"The times I've been struggling, the fans were on me. The thing is about me, I want to always be better," Bridges said. "So whatever, how they feel, I always want to be better.
"They keep pushing me and if they strongly believe that we have a chance every year and if they strongly believe I have a chance to be better, I'm already thinking about that. I appreciate the tough love.
"I know some fans might be a little bit crazier than others, but the ones that truly care, and want me to be better, don't stop now. Just keep pushing me."
Knowing the scrutiny on this team, Bridges will surely take some criticism if/when he hits a rough patch next season. He welcomes it.
"Just know I'm going to keep working," Bridges said. "If they keep egging me on and talking a little sh-t I'm pretty tough, I'll be all right."
The sting of Tom Thibodeau’s firing still lingers.
Thibodeau, fired in June 2025 after coaching the Knicks for five seasons, told The Athletic before the 2025-26 season he was deeply wounded and “had a sense of betrayal” as he felt he’d helped certain people in the organization who didn’t return his loyalty.
On Wednesday, the outlet reported that a friend of the coach said he is “genuinely very happy for the players and his guys” for winning a title — but some less-happy feelings still linger.
Tom Thibodeau reacts on the court during a Knicks-Pacers Eastern Conference Finals game in 2025. Charles Wenzelberg / New York Post
“Tom is still hurt that the decision-makers made it appear he needed to be replaced,” the anonymous friend told The Athletic.
“I talked to Thibs (Saturday) and the first thing we talked about was that he had no malice in his heart, he didn’t have any kind of hatred,” Gibson said. “He was so happy for the guys, he was just really proud of the guys for what they accomplished.”
Knicks owner James Dolan and president Leon Rose moved on from Thibodeau due to his inability to get the team to the next level, but also due to a lack of collaboration with with the front office.
But even though Thibodeau’s time in New York ran its course after the Knicks lost to the Pacers 4-2 in the 2025 Eastern Conference Finals, he’s one of the key factors in the team’s return to relevance.
Tom Thibodeau speaks with Josh Hart during a game against the Mavericks. Charles Wenzelberg / New York Post
Before he was hired in 2020, the Knicks weren’t an attractive landing spot for free agents, had missed the playoffs in sevens straight seasons and hadn’t won 30 games since 2017-18.
Thibodeau immediately established a defensive, gritty identity with the Knicks, guiding them to a 226-174 regular season record in five seasons and winning four playoff series in his final three years.
Mike Brown then replaced Thibodeau in July 2025 and ultimately led the Knicks to their first title in 53 years in his first season.
The Knicks faced their biggest test right away. They trailed the Hawks two games to one after a pair of one-point setbacks in Games 2 and 3. Atlanta guard CJ McCollum was torching them, averaging 27 points through the first three games of the series.
Ahead of a pivotal Game 4 in Atlanta, reserve guard Miles McBride sounded the alarm.
“I’d say we’re playing for our lives,” he said.
The Knicks routed the Hawks in Game 6. Charles Wenzelberg / New York Post
The Knicks responded by reeling off three straight victories to win the series. It started with coach Mike Brown making a major tweak to the offense. With Brunson being hounded by standout Hawks guard Dyson Daniels, the Knicks started running offense through Towns. He notched a triple-double in Game 4 — the first of his playoff career — in a 16-point win.
The Knicks won the final two games of the series by a combined 80 points. In the clincher, they set an NBA playoff record for the largest halftime lead of 47 points, going on to win by a whopping 51. The entire starting five reached double figures on a night the Knicks shot a scalding 59 percent from the field. It also included a Mikal Bridges breakout. Amid calls for Bridges to be benched, Brown stuck with the struggling veteran wing, and he rewarded him with a 24-point performance on 10-for-12 shooting. It started a torrid stretch for Bridges and the Knicks, who wouldn’t lose again until the NBA Finals.
“He just did what he’s capable of doing,” Brown said. “Is he gonna go 10-for-12 every night? No. But he was aggressive. Took great shots. I wouldn’t let it go unnoticed that his defense was phenomenal.”
The Knicks swept the 76ers in the second round. Jason Szenes for the New York Post
How it happened:
This series was never close. The 76ers’ lack of depth combined with a short turnaround after a grueling seven-game series victory over the Celtics gave them no shot. Only one of the four games was decided by single digits — the Knicks’ six-point Game 2 victory – and even that was never really considered in doubt. A hobbled Joel Embiid created major defensive issues for Philadelphia that the Knicks took advantage of. They won the four contests by an average of 22.2 points.
The most interesting part of the series was the final two games in Philly. Ahead of the matchup, Embiid implored 76ers fans to not sell their tickets, to avoid a repeat of two years prior when Knicks fans took over Xfinity Mobile Arena (then Wells Fargo Center). His plea fell on deaf ears.
Game 4 sounded like Madison Square Garden. Embiid heard boos during warmups.
Afterward, a giddy Josh Hart joked: “I used to think Philly was a sports town. I don’t know if it is anymore.”
Said 76ers guard Tyrese Maxey: “It absolutely sucks, if I’m being honest. It just sucks.”
There wasn’t much for 76ers fans to cheer about. The Knicks won the series finale by 30 points, 144-114, and equaled an NBA playoff record with 25 3-pointers.
The series also showed off their depth. Anunoby suffered a mild hamstring strain late in Game 2 and missed the last two games. It didn’t matter. McBride and Landry Shamet stepped up in his place. Shamet, buried on the bench before Anunoby’s injury, exploded for 15 points in Game 3 and McBride drained seven 3-pointers in Game 4.
“I always feel like I’m going to make shots,” McBride said. “I trust my work, trust my preparation. They left me open.”
The series was really decided by Game 1. With a nine-day layoff, the Knicks were rusty. The Cavaliers took advantage, building a 22-point lead early in the fourth quarter. Cleveland seemed on its way to stealing home-court advantage. Then, Brunson slipped on his Superman cape.
The Knicks’ captain rallied them from down 22 in the final 7:52 of regulation, finishing with 38 points. He relentlessly attacked Cavaliers All-Star James Harden during an 18-1 run, and the Knicks dominated overtime. The win marked the Knicks’ eighth straight playoff victory. It was also the first time in the play-by-play era (1997 and on) that a team that trailed by 20 or more points in the final seven minutes of the fourth quarter had ever won.
The Knicks also swept the Cavs. Charles Wenzelberg / New York Post
The Cavaliers never recovered, blasted in the final three games by a combined 66 points. There was a different Knicks star in every game. Brunson owned the first game, Josh Hart was terrific in Game 2 — he made five 3-pointers and scored 26 points – Anunoby and Bridges shared the spotlight in Game 3 and the bench took over the finale, scoring 58 points in a 37-point romp.
Like Philadelphia, Knicks fans took over Cleveland to see their team advance to the NBA Finals for the first time in 27 years. The playoff win streak was now at 11, and 10 of those victories had come by at least 11 points.
“To be part of this team that revives the word ‘hope’ in this city, it’s something special,” Towns said. “It’s something really, really special. And it’s an honor.”
The Spurs started fast and the Knicks finished faster. That was this series in a nutshell. In all four wins, the Knicks trailed by double digits and were behind late in the fourth quarter. It included a Finals-record comeback from 29 points down in the third quarter of Game 4. It included the Knicks becoming the third road team in Finals history to win the first two games of the series, along with the 1993 Bulls and 1995 Rockets.
It included Brunson proving all his critics wrong, that he was good enough to be the star of a championship team despite all the questions about his limitations. He poured in 38 points in that Game 4 rally, then scored 45 more in the clincher en route to MVP honors.
The Knicks bested Victor Wembanyama in the NBA Finals. AP Photo/Darren Abate
Anunoby had the biggest play of the series – arguably the biggest play in franchise history — with his flying tip-in of a Brunson miss with 1.2 seconds left, capping that iconic Game 4 comeback. It saved the Knicks from a 2-0 series lead becoming 2-2, a win that will stand alone among the 16 it took to end a 53-year drought.
“That has to be the most iconic shot in the history of New York basketball,” Brown said.
The Spurs entered the betting favorite after eliminating the defending champion Thunder. They had the superhuman Victor Wembanyama and two of the brightest young guards in the league in Dylan Harper and Stephon Castle. But the Knicks had experience, and they had Jalen Brunson. That won out in the end, as the Knicks won all three games in San Antonio at Frost Bank Center.
“I’m sorry it took so long but here we are,” owner James Dolan said, “and hopefully it won’t take that long again.”
Knicks' Jose Alvarado weighs in on the potential White House visit after NBA finals win. 
