LAS VEGAS, NV - JULY 15: Malaki Branham #38 of the Cleveland Cavaliers shoots the ball during the game against the New Orleans Pelicans on July 15, 2026 at the Cox Pavilion in Las Vegas, Nevada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by David Becker/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
The Cleveland Cavaliers beat the New Orleans Pelicans in a final score of 82-77. This concludes their scheduled games in Vegas. They will play one more consolation game, as the Cavs did not qualify for the knockout tournament.
The top four teams advance to a single-elimination tournament. Cleveland’s 2-2 record won’t be good enough.
But the summer isn’t about winning. It’s about development. Obviously, the two can go hand-in-hand, but falling short of the tournament doesn’t mean Vegas was a waste of time. On the contrary.
Cleveland shut down their rookie standout Meleek Thomas for today’s game. They chose to keep the 34th pick on the bench and away from injury. Thomas had scored 35 points in his previous game and totalled 85 points in three games this summer.
While resting second-round picks in Summer League is a bit ripe for me, I can’t deny Thomas did more than enough to prove himself. His shot-making and overall feel for the game were evident to anyone watching. He has nothing left to show in this setting.
Resting Thomas opens up the door for other players to step up. So, did anyone take the torch?
Both the Cavs and Pelicans struggled to score in the first quarter. The Cavs began 0-13 from the floor as neither team cracked double-digits until near the end of the period. That’s Summer League for ya.
Things finally got rolling in the second quarter. The rest of the game was as expected.
Malaki Branham led the Cavs with 22 points. He looked strong throughout the Summer League and was their best player in this one.
Jaxson Robinson finished with 13 points on 5-10 shooting. The 23-year-old forward has shown a knack for getting hot from downtown, like when he scored 42 points and drilled eight three-pointers for the Cleveland Charge earlier this year.
Robinson played five years in college, beginning with Texas A&M before transferring to BYU and finishing his collegiate career with the Kentucky Wildcats. Robinson averaged 13 points per game in his senior season.
I’d keep an eye on Robinson, as 6’7” three-point shooters are always worth monitoring.
Cleveland’s two-way players have shown mixed results in Vegas. Tristan Enaruna has been out since the first game due to illness. Ernest Udeh Jr., whose hustle and activity led to 8 rebounds and 3 blocked shots today, ended the game shooting 0-for-2 and scored 0 points.
Riley Minix, Cleveland’s other two-way player, struggled throughout the summer. He’s shooting below 30% from the floor and missed his first 19 three-point attempts. Minix finally connected on a three-pointer today to bring his total to 1-for-20 for the summer.
The Cavs will play their final Summer League game on either July 17, July 18, or July 19.
You can always count on Josh Hart for an entertaining quip.
Just after Argentina’s miraculous comeback to beat England 2-1 in the World Cup semifinals on Wednesday afternoon, the Knicks star compared Argentina to the newest NBA champs, almost certainly because of the country’s propensity for comebacks.
Despite trailing England 1-0 into the 85th minute, Enzo Fernández tied the game at one with a thrilling goal from outside the 18-yard box. Then, just two minutes into stoppage time, substitute Lautaro Martínez won it for Argentina with a header, prompting Hart’s post.
But Wednesday wasn’t even Argentina’s most impressive comeback of the tournament.
Argentina was dead in the water in the Round of 16 against Egypt, and trailed 2-0 in the 79th minute. But the two-goal deficit didn’t matter, as Argentina scored three late goals to complete a miraculous comeback and avoid disaster. Lionel Messi, who helped lead Argentina to the 2022 World Cup title, added to his resume with an equalizer in that contest.
Meanwhile, in the NBA playoffs, the Knicks were masters of the comeback en route to their first championship since 1973.
Trailing 2-1 in their first-round series against the Hawks, the Knicks turned it up a notch and dominated the final three games, winning Game 6 by 50 points. In Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals against the Cavaliers, the Knicks were down 93-71 with 8:19 remaining, but stormed back to win 115-104 in overtime.
Josh Hart of the New York Knicks celebrates after winning the NBA Finals. NBAE via Getty Images
But the Knicks’ Game 4 NBA Finals comeback was the most impressive of all, as they came back from 29 points down to beat the Spurs in a historic victory.
Every match of the FIFA World Cup will air on either FOX or FOX Sports 1. If you don’t have cable, you can take advantage of a DIRECTV free trial to stream it all.
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Though the sports are vastly different, both Argentina and the Knicks know what it looks like to be down big — and to still come out on top.
LAS VEGAS, NV - JULY 14: Kobe Sanders #4 of the LA Clippers plays defense during the game against the Los Angeles Lakers on July 14, 2026 at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas, Nevada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Tom O'Connor/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
The Lakers (3-0) aim to keep their undefeated run alive on Thursday when they take on the Chicago Bulls (1-2). The purple and gold look to solidify a spot in the semifinals with a victory.
Start time and TV schedule
Who: Los Angeles Lakers vs. Chicago Bulls
When: 3 p.m. PT, July 16
Where: Thomas & Mack Center
Watch: Prime Video
This Summer League tournament has been everything the Lakers could have hoped for and more.
Cameron Carr and Adou Theiro are leading an unbeaten team featuring the most determined and gritty players you’ll see in this kind of setting. The squad plays hard on both sides of the floor, shown by them beating their opponents by a significant margin each contest. Los Angeles now has a point differential total of 47 points over the last three games.
And oh, did I mention that they’re also currently undefeated? Pardon me, it’s been a while since L.A. has looked this good in Summer League.
And better yet, they have a legitimate chance to actually win the championship. It’s hard not to think about how meaningful winning this championship would be for Theiro, Carr and the rest of the group. But they’re going to have to work for it to make it happen.
Caleb Wilson and the Bulls
On Thursday, the Lakers will face a Bulls team led by their lottery pick in Caleb Wilson, who they selected No. 4 overall. The big man from the University of North Carolina has balled out this summer, averaging 24.3 points, 7.0 rebounds, 3.3 blocks, and 1.3 steals across three games. He’s easily going to be the Lakers’ biggest threat.
But the question is, will the Lakers allow Wilson to be the best player on the floor? This is where Carr, Theiro and Arthur Kaluma — who has averaged the most points for the purple and gold in the tournament — should shine. The key for the L.A. is to maintain their defensive intensity and superb ball movement on offense.
This Lakers team has excelled at forcing turnovers and turning them into transition opportunities, a formula that could be even more effective against a Bulls team that likes to push the pace. If the purple and gold impose their strength, athleticism and height, they should be able to contain Wilson and company.
Playoff bound?
To qualify for the Summer League semifinals, the Lakers need to finish among the top four teams in the standings, which they currently do. Given that they’re one of the two undefeated teams in the tournament, they’re in a good position to secure a playoff spot.
Currently, the top four teams besides the Lakers are the Atlanta Hawks, Boston Celtics and Brooklyn Nets. The four-team playoff bracket will be finalized based on win-loss records and point differentials from the elimination round.
That said, it would be ideal for the Lakers to keep their pristine record. And for as long as they continue to play the way they have, there’s a good chance that more success is on the horizon. Let’s see if the Lakers can inch closer to a championship against the Bulls on Thursday.
Notes and Updates
Besides Carr’s 23-point night, Chris Mañon deserves praise for his 17-point output in the win against the L.A. Clippers.
Kaluma continues to shine and is easily the best candidate to take the Lakers’ two-way spot.
Mar 20, 2026; San Diego, CA, USA; Villanova Wildcats forward Duke Brennan (24) dunks against Utah State Aggies guard Mason Falslev (12) in the second half during a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Viejas Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
The NBA Summer League is in full swing in Las Vegas.
The rookies that were drafted just a few weeks ago have stolen the show but teams have others on the team looking to catch on. This includes seven former Villanova Wildcats.
Here is how each former Wildcat has performed to this point of the summer:
Duke Brennan, Brooklyn Nets
July 10 vs. New York Knicks – No points or shot attempts in 4 minutes, 3 rebounds, 0-1 FT
July 11 vs. Atlanta Hawks – DNP
July 14 vs. Sacramento Kings – 0 points, 1 rebound, 0-1 FG, 3 minutes
TJ Bamba, Denver Nuggets
July 10 vs. Houston Rockets – DNP
July 11 vs. Minnesota Timberwolves – 7 points, 3 rebounds, 3 assists, 2-8 FG, 1-4 3PT, 17 minutes
July 14 vs. Oklahoma City Thunder – DNP
Tyler Burton, Memphis Grizzlies
July 10 vs. Chicago Bulls – 3 points, 2 rebounds, 1-1 FG, 1-1 FT, 5 minutes
July 13 vs. Dallas Mavericks – 8 minutes, 3 rebounds, 3-6 FG, 2-3 3PT, 11 minutes
July 14 vs. Golden State Warriors – 11 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal, 1 block, 4-8 FG, 1-3 3PT, 23 minutes
Brendan Hausen, Memphis Grizzlies
July 10 vs. Chicago Bulls – DNP
July 13 vs. Dallas Mavericks – DNP
July 14 vs. Golden State Warriors – 20 points, 3 rebounds, 1 assist, 7-9 FG, 6-8 3PT, 19 minutes
Lance Ware, New York Knicks
July 10 vs. Brooklyn Nets – 0 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 steal, 0-4 FG, 16 minutes
July 11 vs. San Antonio Spurs – 0 points, 1 rebound, 1 block, 13 minutes
July 13 vs. Detroit Pistons – 2 points, 5 rebounds, 2 assists, 1-2 FG, 14 minutes
Devin Askew, Phoenix Suns
July 10 vs. Portland Trail Blazers – DNP
July 12 vs. New Orleans Pelicans – 0 points, 0-1 3PT, 4 minutes
July 13 vs. Milwaukee Bucks – 3 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists, 1-2 3PT, 9 minutes
Eric Dixon, Utah Jazz
July 9 vs. Washington Wizards – DNP
July 12 vs. Los Angeles Clippers – 5 points, 2 rebounds, 1 assist, 2-7 FG, 1-3 3PT, 20 minutes
July 13 vs. Chicago Bulls – 2 points, 3 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal, 1 block, 1-6 FG, 0-3 3PT, 14 minutes
Knicks guard Jalen Brunson reacts as he runs down court during Game 5 against the Hawks.
Jalen Brunson played through pain during the final two rounds of the Knicks run to their first championship in 53 years.
During an appearance on ESPN Radio on Wednesday, the Knicks captain revealed he began feeling discomfort in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference finals against the Cavaliers.
“There wasn’t a play I remember it happening,” Brunson said. “I just remember being at the free-throw line in the third or fourth quarter of Game 2 of the Eastern Conference finals. My wrist was starting to feel weak. I was like, ‘Where is this coming from?’ From that point on, I was trying to figure out what was going on, and how I can push through, because I wasn’t going to get anything done during that time.”
Knicks guard Jalen Brunson reacts as he runs down court during Game 5 against the Hawks. JASON SZENES FOR THE NEW YORK POST
“I’m good,” Brunson said. “It’s obviously going to take a little bit of time.”
The injury didn’t hamper Brunson’s performance. He averaged 32.6 points, 4.6 assists and shot 38.9 percent from 3-point range in the Finals, highlighted by his 45-point masterpiece in the clincher. In the final two games against the Cavaliers, Brunson averaged 22.5 points and 5.5 assists.
It has been more than a month since the Knicks ended their title drought. Brunson called it a “roller coaster,” from the championship parade to a number of public appearances.
“Obviously, once we won and everything, everything was up and high and everything was amazing, the parade and all of that,” he said. “Everything after we won was amazing. Then kind of getting back into real life and realizing it was probably best to get surgery done for my wrist. That kind of brought me back down. But I would do it all again.
“It’s an incredible feeling, and something that doing it here has made it 10 times better. The experience has been better, just being in the city. It’s been amazing, to say the least.”
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - JULY 05: Jayden Quaintance #22 of the San Antonio Spurs looks on during the first half of their 2026 California Classic Summer League game at Chase Center on July 05, 2026 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Thien-An Truong/Getty Images) | Getty Images
It was quickly revealed after the San Antonio Spurs selected Jayden Quaintance with the 20th-overall pick that the 19-year-old would require another knee surgery to clean up his meniscus. Today, the Spurs announced that Quaintance has undergone a successful surgery on his right knee. The team will provide more updates as appropriate.
This was a necessary surgery for San Antonio’s rookie, according to On3’s reporting:
Dr. Riley Williams III — head team physician and orthopedic surgeon for the Brooklyn Nets and famous for performing surgery on Paul George’s gruesome open tibia-fibula fracture with USA Basketball in 2014 — gave a second opinion on Quaintance’s injured right knee that limited him to four games in Lexington and recommended a follow-up procedure that could keep him off the floor for six months. The 6-foot-11 prospect’s ACL remains fully intact, and his knee can be maintained at its current state, but a clean-up is preferred for a permanent resolution.
The Spurs will hope that this latest surgery is the one that will allow Quaintance to return to the court in full health. With just about two months to go until training camp, we may not see Quaintance suit up for the Silver and Black to begin the season, but it’s reasonable to think the rookie could come back at some point in the 2026-27 season.
Spurs fans will have to wait to learn more from the team on Quaintance’s status as the offseason progresses. When he does return to action, he’ll give the Spurs a promising defensive prospect in a crowded front court that includes Victor Wembanyama, Luke Kornet, and Tarris Reed Jr.
What the Knicks and Jalen Brunson did en route to the organization's first NBA championship in 53 years was astounding, and it was made more spectacular after it was revealed that the Knicks point guard was playing a portion of the playoffs with an injury that required surgery.
Now, we know when Brunson was injured.
Speaking with ESPN NY Radio's Don, Hahn & Rosenberg on Wednesday, Brunson was asked about the injury. The Knicks captain couldn't pinpoint when he got hurt exactly, but knew he was hurt earlier than many believed.
“I’m good. Obviously, it’s going to take a little bit of time," Brunson said. "There isn’t a play where I remember it happening; I just remember being at the free-throw line in the third or fourth quarter of Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Finals and my wrist is starting to feel weak.
"From that point on, it was just trying to figure out what was going on and how to proceed because I wasn’t going to get anything done during that time."
That game saw Brunson score 19 points in 40 minutes in the Knicks' 109-93 win to take a 2-0 series lead, a series they wound up sweeping. But Brunson would have bigger moments in the NBA Finals. He helped lead the improbable comeback in Game 4 and scored a franchise-record 43 points in Game 5 to clinch the title.
All with an injury to his shooting hand.
SNY's Ian Begley reported that Brunson underwent surgery to repair a left wrist/forearm injury earlier this month and that Brunson is expected to need at least two months for rehab/recovery.
Despite getting injured, Brunson wouldn't trade the experience, especially doing it in New York.
“It’s been a rollercoaster, honestly," Brunson said of life after winning the title. "Once we won and everything, everything was up high…everything after we won was amazing. And then getting back to real life, it was probably best to get surgery done for my wrist. That brought me back down. But I would do it all again."
LAS VEGAS, NV - JULY 13: Ebuka Okorie #23 of the Detroit Pistons drives to the basket during the game against the New York Knicks on July 13, 2026 at the Cox Pavilion in Las Vegas, Nevada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Candice Ward/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
Ebuka Okorie is obviously a talented basketball player with the kind of speed and intuition on how to deploy it that could be a difference-maker in the NBA. We have seen that throughout three games of Summer League so far. We’ve also see him struggle for a healthy dose of minutes. He’s taking a lot shots, and a lot of those shots are ill-advised. Does that even matter? It’s inarguable that he’ll have much better teammates on the real Detroit Pistons than he does on this Summer League team. It’s also true that he simply cannot afford to take these shots in a congested lane surrounded by three players. It’s simply unacceptable. And if it was a real game, I’d like to think it would be easy for him to defer and pass out of trouble. I guess, we will find out when the games really start to matter. Tonight’s game definitely does not matter. But it’s another chance to see Okorie at work.
Game Vitals
When: 6 p.m. ET Where: Thomas & Mack Center, Las Vegas, Nevada Watch: ESPNU
The Lakers entered the free agency period with over $52 million in cap space, but quickly lost financial flexibility after signing Walker Kessler, Sandro Mamukelashvili, Collin Sexton, Kevon Looney and Quentin Grimes.
Jonathan Kuminga wants to join the Lakers, but for the right price. Getty Images
The Lakers have reportedly offered Kuminga a deal where he earns $10 million annually. The team has pitched a star-studded role for Kuminga as a starting wing alongside Luka Doncic, but the current deal would leave the forward earning less than Mamukelashvili and Grimes, who are set to earn $13 million annually.
One of the two players is set to be a bench player.
And thus, Kuminga wants to earn more before joining the Lakers in Tinseltown.
The Lakers have limited avenues to acquire Kuminga, but the Atlanta Hawks are open to a potential sign-and-trade with LA. The California Post’s Khobi Price reports the Hawks are willing to send Kuminga to the Lakers in exchange for Jarred Vanderbilt and the Lakers’ 2032 first-round pick swap.
After an active first 48 hours in free agency, the Lakers have since made little noise on the market. While Pelinka’s challenge is to find a creative way to sign Kuminga, it’s evident the Lakers roster remains incomplete as it stands.
The stakes for Kawhi Leonard appear far greater than previously understood as the NBA navigates an unprecedented case with potentially career-altering consequences.
According to ESPN insider Shams Charania, Leonard himself could face punishment ranging from a substantial suspension to the most severe possible outcome: having his contract voided.
Kawhi Leonard could face a long suspension or a voided contract as the Los Angeles Clippers investigation targets a summer resolution. NBAE via Getty Images
“The absolute worst is Kawhi Leonard’s contract being voided, or him being suspended for a significant period of time,” Charania said on the “Shump Street” podcast. “Whether it’s 20, 40 games or the entire season, it all comes down to the evidence and what’s found in the investigation.”
The league’s inquiry began with Leonard’s reported $28 million endorsement agreement with Aspiration, an environmental company in which Clippers owner Steve Ballmer invested heavily.
Leonard was traded to the Raptors a few weeks ago, but that trade is on hold until the investigation is complete. Getty Images
The investigation has since reportedly expanded. According to The Athletic, the outside law firm handling the case has examined whether the Clippers paid certain expenses for Leonard without being reimbursed and whether he had another previously undisclosed endorsement agreement.
Commissioner Adam Silver clarified that the NBA did not block the transaction, but said both teams understood the investigation would continue. AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura
No finding of wrongdoing has been announced, and Leonard has denied participating in any effort to circumvent the salary cap. The Clippers have also repeatedly denied funneling money to their star through Aspiration.
Charania stressed that Leonard’s punishment would depend on whether investigators uncover evidence showing he knowingly participated in an improper arrangement. If the inquiry finds wrongdoing by the organization but cannot connect Leonard directly, the league could focus its penalties on the Clippers instead.
The uncertainty has already affected Leonard’s basketball future.
The Clippers and Raptors reportedly agreed to pause a potential trade because Toronto would inherit the risk of any punishment attached to Leonard. Commissioner Adam Silver clarified that the NBA did not block the transaction, but said both teams understood the investigation would continue regardless of where Leonard played.
Silver expects the independent review to conclude this summer.
Until then, Leonard remains caught between a possible return to Toronto and penalties that could range from manageable to career-altering.
As Charania made clear, everything now depends on what investigators can prove.
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LAS VEGAS, NV - JULY 15: Labaron Philon #00 of the Philadelphia 76ers drives to the basket during the game against the Orlando Magic on July 15, 2026 at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas, Nevada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Tom O'Connor/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
The Summer League Sixers fell just short of a 30-point comeback, falling 99-92 to the Orlando Magic Wednesday afternoon. At 2-2, their chances at the Summer League title are over. They’ll play one more consolation game that has yet to be announced.
Labaron Philon Jr., going cold for the first time this summer, finished with 15 points shooting 7-of-24 from the field along with six assists and four turnovers. Duke Miles put up 15 as well but shot 6-of-9 from the floor along with three assists. Amani Lyles finished with 18 points and six rebounds on 7-of-12 shooting while Jase Richardson led all scorers with 25. Johni Broome was unavailable for this one.
This game at least started drastically different than the Sixers’ previous outing. They were able to hit Philon up ahead with a pass off the opening tip for a layup. Despite getting some open looks, his jumper wasn’t falling for him as easily as it had been as he missed his next eight shots. He finally got one to go as the first quarter was winding down, but his follow up attempt got wedgied in between the backboard.
Orlando on the other hand got off to a torrid start, making eight of their first nine shots following Richardson’s lead. The pull-up jumpers he nailed early set the tone as the Magic shot 69% from the field in the first half. The 12 Sixers’ turnovers also helped the Magic get out to an early double-digit lead they held for most of the night. Philon was responsible for three of them.
Philon appeared to find a rhythm when he hit some midranges off the dribble in the third quarter, but he could not buy a three ball on the night.
Unike the game before, the Sixers were able to work a 30-point lead all the way down to single digits as the second half wore on. They did so thanks to a better shooting night from Miles. He also made some flashy plays in transition with Lyles, who was able to bang around in the post to put up another solid stat line. Dante Maddox Jr. wasn’t able to even out his 4-of-13 shooting line, but he scored 14 of his 15 points in the second half.
Two consecutive steals into layups were followed by two more threes, allowing the Sixers to cut the lead to four with a minute and a half remaining. Richardson was able to get a bucket to stop the bleeding. Maddox nearly buried a three to make it a one-possession game, but it rimmed out and the Magic were able to hold on despite a noble second-half effort from the bunch.
Before we put this Summer League to rest, let’s just take a moment to appreciate the old Sixers’ friends on this Orlando Summer League roster. There’s Ricky Council IV, Lester Quinones, Colin Castleton, and Philip Wheeler, who didn’t even have a Wikipedia page when the Sixers signed him late in 2025. Wheeler has averaged 18 a game this summer on 50% shooting — good for him! All four of these guys had parts to play in the Sixers’ 2025 tank that landed them VJ Edgecombe.
Now they may be learning that the feeling is not entirely mutual.
Shams Charania says Cleveland, Miami and Philadelphia are the focus in LeBron James’ free agency, leaving Golden State on edge. Getty Images
ESPN insider Shams Charania reported that Cleveland, Miami and Philadelphia have become the primary focus of James’ free-agency decision, noticeably excluding Golden State from the group receiving the most attention.
The Warriors have not been formally eliminated. Charania said the previously identified contenders remain involved, but his updated wording represents a potentially ominous shift only days after he listed Golden State among James’ leading suitors.
Shams Charania commentates during the 2026 NBA Draft NBAE via Getty Images
For a franchise waiting on the 41-year-old before completing its roster, the distinction matters.
Other reports suggested Green’s lobbying had caused James to give the Warriors stronger consideration. Charania’s latest update, however, indicates that Cleveland, Miami and Philadelphia may have gained separation as the decision approaches.
Golden State cannot wait forever.
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LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers handles the ball during the game against the Golden State Warriors NBAE via Getty Images
General manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. said during Tuesday’s Summer League game that the Warriors are “getting close to finalizing the roster” and are looking forward to reaching the finish line.
That comment can now be interpreted in two very different ways.
Perhaps Dunleavy knows James is nearing a decision and believes the Warriors remain positioned to land the biggest remaining prize. Or perhaps Golden State has seen enough to suspect James is heading elsewhere and is preparing to finish its offseason without him.
The Warriors have already retained several veterans and can offer James the $15 million non-taxpayer midlevel exception. Their pitch includes Curry, Green, Steve Kerr, championship experience, proximity to Los Angeles and enough prestigious golf courses to keep James occupied between games.
But their advantage was always access, not certainty.
Curry and Green have made their calls. The front office has delivered its plan. James has reportedly heard from the league’s owners, executives and players and now possesses the information needed to choose his next team.
The Warriors are still waiting.
They just may no longer be near the front of the line.
LAS VEGAS, NV - JULY 13: Darius Brown II #45 of the Phoenix Suns dribbles the ball during the game against the Milwaukee Bucks on July 13, 2026 at the Cox Pavilion in Las Vegas, Nevada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Stephen Greathouse/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
LAS VEGAS, NV - JULY 14: Darius Acuff Jr. #5 of the Sacramento Kings shoots a free throw during the game against the Brooklyn Nets on July 14, 2026 at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas, Nevada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Stephen Greathouse/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
Boston Celtics (2-1) at Sacramento Kings (1-2) Wednesday, July 15, 2026 8:00 PM ET Summer League Game #4 TV: NBCSB, ESPN 2 Thomas and Mack Center
The Kings have played 3 games together in the California Summer League where they went 3-0, beating Brooklyn 79-76, Golden State 91-85 and Milwaukee 95-89. They have also played 3 games in the Las Vegas Summer League, going 1-2, beating the Clippers 91-85 and losing to Washington 104-85 and to Brooklyn 115-83. They are playing in the 2nd of back to back games while the Celtics had Tuesday off. The Celtics have played just 3 games together.
The Celtics are coached by Amile Jefferson. Jefferson was named Director of Player Development for the Duke Blue Devils in 2021. He was promoted to assistant coach at Duke for the 2022-23 season. In 2023, Jefferson became an assistant coach for the Boston Celtics under head coach Joe Mazzulla. Jefferson played with Jayson Tatum at Duke and he played for the Celtics on an Exhibit 10 contract before being hired as an assistant coach.
The Kings are coached by Chris Darnell. He began his coaching career as a Video Coordinator for the Cavaliers from 2019-2021. From 2021-24, he was the associate head coach for the Cleveland Charge of the G-League. He served as the head coach for the Charge in the 2024-25 season. He has been an assistant coach for the Kings since 2025.
The Celtics are averaging 41.0 rebounds per game while the Kings are averaging 34.7 rebounds per game. The Celtics need to continue to crash the boards and beat the Kings to rebounds. The Celtics are turning the ball over 18 times per game while the Kings are averaging 19.7 turnovers per game. It’s not unusual for Summer League teams to turn the ball over a lot because of limited playing time together and surprising that the Kings are turning it over more with 3 extra games under their belts.
Neither team is shooting the ball very well, but the Celtics were able to play enough defense to get wins in 2 games. The Celtics are shooting 37.2% from the field and 32.4% from beyond the arc. The Kings are shooting 40.8% from the field and 28.7% from beyond the arc. The Celtics need to continue to play good defense while working on improving their shooting.
Dillon Mitchell will reportedly sit out this game for rest. Tucker DeVries and Milos Uzan have both been signed to Exhibit 10 contracts that will give them the opportunity to play in training camp with the Celtics. DeVries started Monday’s game and is averaging 11 points, 1 rebound and 1.5 assists while shooting 41.8% from the field and 40.3% from beyond the arc. Uzan is averaging 8 points, 4.3 rebounds and 5 assists while shooting 32% from the field and 30.8% beyond the arc.
Celtics Summer League Roster Mohammad Amini #54 R Chris Cenac, Jr #12 R Tucker DeVries #41 R Hugo Gonzalez #28 1 Caleb Grill #37 R Curtis Jones #26 R Kyle Mangas #43 R Dillon Mitchell #20 R Hank Morgan #51 R Nick Pringle #40 R Day Day Thomas #38 R John Tonje #8 R Milos Uzan #29 R Chauncey Wiggins #50 R Alondes Williams #46 3 Amari Williams #77 1
Head Coach Amile Jefferson
Starters in 1st 2 games Curtis Jones, John Tonje, Hugo Gonzalez, Dillon Mitchell, and Amari Williams Starters in 3rd game Curtis Jones, John Tonje, Tucker DeVries, Dillon Mitchell, and Chris Cenac, Jr
Celtics Players to Watch
Hugo Gonzalez | Getty Images
Hugo Gonzalez – Hugo was the 28th pick in last year’s draft. In last year’s Summer League, he averaged 10.8 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 2.8 assists. He averaged 3.9 points and 3.3 rebounds in 14 minutes per game last season. His +11.9 rating was the highest for any rookie that played at least 100 minutes. So far in Summer League he is averaging 15.5 points, 7 rebounds, 6 assists and 2 steals per game while shooting 23.1% from the field and 22.2% from beyond the arc. He shot better in Game 2 than Game 1 but still needs some improvement in that area. He sat out the Celtics 3rd game but I’m expecting him to play in this one.
Chris Cenac, Jr – Cenac was the 27th pick in this year’s draft. He is 19 years old and was a highly recruited center going into his one season at Houston. He averaged 9.5 points and 7.9 rebounds in college, while shooting 48% from the field, 33% from beyond the arc and 62% from the line. He has a combination of size and athleticism that makes him a very intriguing player. He is averaging 10.7 points, 6.7 rebounds, 1 assist and 3 blocks while shooting 36.4% from the field and 25% from beyond the arc.
John Tonje – Tonje came to the Celtics as a 2-way player from Utah in the Chris Boucher trade at last year’s deadline. At the end of last season, his contract was converted to a standard contract. His option wasn’t picked up this season but the way he has played in Summer League, he is earning at least a 2 way contract again. He has started all 3 games so far and is averaging 14 points, 4 rebounds, 1 assist, and 1.7 steals while shooting 43.8% from the field and 47.4% from beyond the arc. Amari Williams – Amari was the 46th pick in last year’s draft. He spent most of last season on a 2-way deal but was converted to a standard contract at the end of last season. He averaged 1.4 points, and 1.8 rebounds in 6.6 minutes with Boston last year. He averaged 15.8 points, 10.9 rebounds, 4.9 assists and 1.8 blocks with Maine last season. He has already been signed to a 2-way contract for this season. He is averaging 14.5 points, 9 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 3 blocks while shooting 64.3% from the field with no 3’s. Sacramento Kings Roster Nique Clifford #0 1 year Darius Acuff, Jr #5 R Adam Flagler #20 2 years Jonathan Mogbo #22 2 years Isaiah Stevens #24 2 years Mitch Mascari #25 R Elias Ralph #26 R Viktor Lakhin #30 R Dylan Cardwell #32 1 year Alex Karaban #33 R Emanuel Sharp #34 R Anthony Dell’Orso #37 R Maxime Raynaud #42 1 year Marquel Sutton #49 R BJ Edwards #50 R
Kings Starters Game 1 Darius Acuff, Jr, Nique Clifford, Jonathan Mogbo, Dylan Cardwell, and Alex Karaban
Kings Starters Game 2 Darius Acuff, Jr, Nique Clifford, Alex Karaban, Dylan Cardwell, and Maxime Raynaud
Kings Starters Game 3 Darius Acuff, Jr, Nique Clifford, Alex Karaban, Maxime Raynaud, and Dylan Cardwell Kings Players to Watch
Maxime Raynaud | Getty Images
Maxime Raynaud – Raynaud was the 42nd pick in the 2025 draft. He played 4 years at Stanford and averaged 20.1 points and 10.9 rebounds in his senior year. He was named to the 1st team all ACC and became 1 of only 3 players to average at least 20 points, 10 rebounds and 50 3-pointers in a season. The other 2 were Kevin Durant and Carmelo Anthony. Last season he averaged 12.5 points, 7.5 rebounds and 1.4 assists while shooting 57.1% from the field and 32.4% from beyond the arc. In Summer League he is averaging 20 points, 12 rebounds, 2 steals and 1 block while shooting 46.7% from the field and 40% from beyond the arc.
Darius Acuff, Jr – Acuff was the 7th pick in this year’s draft. He won the Bob Cousy award for point guards, and was the SEC Player of the Year and Rookie of the Year. He averaged 23 points and 6.6 assists in his senior year. He has been compared by some to Allen Iverson. In Summer League he is averaging 15.5 points, 2 rebounds, 5.5 assists, 1 steal, and 1 block while shooting 29.4% from the field and 23.1% from beyond the arc. Nique Clifford – Clifford was the 24th pick in the 2025 draft by the Thunder and was traded to the Kings on Draft night. He was a 4 year college player and averaged 12.2 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 3 assists in his senior year. This is his 2nd Summer League. He averaged 8.6 points, 3.8 rebounds and 2.4 assists as a rookie. In Summer League, he is averaging 15 points, 3.5 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 1.5 steals while shooting 42.9% from the field and 33.3% from beyond the arc.
Emanuel Sharp – Sharp is an Israel-American player. He was the 45th pick in the 2026 draft. He was a 4 year college player at Houston. In his senior year, he averaged 15.5 points, 3 rebounds, 1.7 assists and 1.2 steals. He made Big 12 First Team and Big 12 All Defense team. In Summer League, he is averaging 14 points, 2 rebounds and 2.5 blocks per game while shooting 33.3% from the field and 28.6% from beyond the arc.
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