LAS VEGAS, NV - JULY 15: Koa Peat #18 of the Phoenix Suns handles the ball during the game against the Detroit Pistons 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 Suns had a successful run. We do not know if they will play more games or not yet, but we do know which players will not be playing regardless.
According to Arizona Sports’ John Gambadoro, Phoenix will shut down Khaman Maluach, Rasheer Fleming, and Koa Peat for the rest of the Summer League.
After a highly successful four games in the Summer League the Suns will shut down Khaman Maluach, Rasheer Fleming and Koa Peat. They won't play in any other Summer League games.
The trio showed us just about everything we needed to see in four games. Maluach was dominant throughout. Peat looked comfortable immediately. Fleming has started slower, but still had some flashes and ended with a bang yesterday.
The Final Numbers
Khaman Maluach: 4 games, 19.5 PPG, 12.8 RPG (2.3 offensive), 1.0 APG, 2.0 BPG, 1.3 SPG on .532/.400/.684 shooting splits, 2.5 TOV in 27.4 minutes per game
Maluach showed up everything we wanted to see. Physicality. Aggression. Crashing the glass. Contesting shots. Knocking down threes efficiently. He did it all.
Koa Peat: 4 games, 16.8 PPG, 4.8 RPG, 2.3 APG, 1.5 SPG, 0.5 BPG on .510/.000/.625 shooting splits, 3.0 TOV in 27.2 minutes per game
Peat has looked steady throughout the Summer League. The playmaking flashes combined with his strength and ability to create and absorb contact are impressive. He could wind up being the steal of the draft regardless of whether the three-point jumper develops or not.
Rasheer Fleming: 4 games, 12.0 PPG, 6.5 RPG, 1.0 APG, 1.0 SPG, 1.0 BPG on .474/.421/.500 shooting splits, 1.8 TOV in 26.7 minutes per game
Fleming had a bit of a slower start than the other two, but went out with a bang after dropping 22 points and 8 rebounds with 4 threes in his SL finale against the Pistons. This environment isn’t really built as much for 3-&-D wings to showcase their value, but he still had some jaw-dropping plays. He’ll be ready to make an impact in the NBA next season.
The take I have from this is to not overreact one way or the other to Summer League. But it sure is a lot sweeter when you see what you want to see from your young prospects.
There could be some positional battles that are greatly expedited this training camp if the momentum carries over.
LAS VEGAS, NV - JULY 11: Jack Kayil #77 of the New York Knicks dribbles the ball during the game against the San Antonio Spurs during the 2026 NBA Summer League game on July 11, 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 Ryan Stetz/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
The Knicks continue their NBA Summer League schedule tonight, facing the Golden State Warriors at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas. New York’s young core, including Mohamed Diawara, Pacôme Dadiet, Tyler Nickel, and Dillon Jones, will use the reps to continue their development, while the Warriors are headlined by highly regarded rookie forward Yaxel Lendeborg. Your correspondent is far afield in the wilds of Canada, so enjoy it without me, fans.
Tip-off is 7 pm EST on ESPN2. This is your game thread. This is Golden State of Mind. Please don’t post large photos, GIFs, or links to illegal streams in the thread. Be cool, everybody. And go Knicks!
Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corporation filed a defamation lawsuit on July 16 against Wired Magazine over an article published last week that claimed the midtown Manhattan arena used surveillance to track celebrities’ race, gender identity, and sexual orientation.
According to the Wired article, published on July 9, celebrities and other dignitaries who have attended home games at Madison Square Garden were assigned "risk" scores, ranging from "low risk" to "DO NOT HOST." The article also alleges the database labeled nearly 100 people as “LGBTQIA." There are nearly 40,000 entries in the “talent” database, each with specific labeling designations.
The lawsuit obtained by USA TODAY Sports and filed in New York State Supreme Court also names Wired contributing editor Noah Shachtman, co-author Maddy Varner, and Wired Global Editorial Director Katie Drummond as defendants and alleges that the article was "unethical and inflammatory." MSG alleges in the lawsuit that Wired and the article's authors continued to promote the piece in the days following publication "without concern for the truth and with the intent to cause maximal public impact."
"Wired combed the dark web, obtained data stolen from MSG by an extortionist hacking group, and cherry-picked fragments of that data to manufacture a false narrative portraying MSG as targeting the LGBTQIA community for discriminatory purposes," the lawsuit reads.
The magazine also reported in April that security staff for New York Knicks owner James Dolan tracked a transgender woman's movements using that surveillance and spying on her for the better part of two years. A class-action lawsuit filed against MSG claims that this private data leak was a direct byproduct of owner Dolan’s surveillance operations after The ShinyHunters collective, a hacking group, released 45 GB worth of data on June 16.
Wired says it stands by its reporting and will "vigorously defend it against this baseless and ridiculous lawsuit."
"We look forward to continuing our coverage of MSG, and on billionaire James Dolan's use of technology across his entertainment empire," Wired said in a statement. "It's one part of our wider mission and the critical job of journalists, now more than ever: holding power to account."
Madison Square Garden's lawsuit says that the implication that the company maintained a database with a sexual orientation field for exclusionary, discriminatory, security, or risk-based purposes is "a lie" and that Wired constructed a false narrative drawn from a standard customer relationship.
"Defendants knew there was no nefarious “list” of gay celebrities, and Defendants knew that the stolen data contained dozens of fields per customer—including mundane fields such as address, phone number, and dietary restrictions—used for relationship management purposes, not discrimination," the lawsuit says.
In the 40-page lawsuit, MSG is seeking a jury trial, along with compensatory, presumed, special, and punitive damages; a correction or retraction of the false and defamatory statements and implications; and attorney's fees.
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - JULY 16: Sergio De Larrea #55 of the Dallas Mavericks drives against Steven Ashworth #18 of the Oklahoma City Thunder in the first half of the 2026 NBA Summer League game at the Thomas & Mack Center on July 16, 2026 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. (Photo by Louis Grasse/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The Dallas Mavericks (2-2) controlled Thursday afternoon’ Summer League game agains the Oklahoma City Thunder (0-4) at UNLV’s Thomas & Mack Arena, 97-87, and this one had something for every sicko.
Dallas really looked connected and cohesive as the game went further and further along, which is rare to see in a Summer League game. Does it give you hope for the future? Not necessarily, because not all of these players are going to remain with the team longer than a few more days.
But in identifying the real connectors, you can see where Dallas may have found a diamond or two in the rough. Dallas built a 22-point lead in the second and third quarters behind six scorers in double figures, but then gave some of it back in the fourth.
The Thunder put together a late 13-2 run to cut the Summer Mavs’ lead to seven points midway through the fourth, but let’s not pretend like any of that matters. We’re just here for wild projections.
After Monday’s 16-point, 12-assist eyebrow-raiser against the Summer Grizzlies, all MFFL eyes were on Sergio de Larrea to see what he might do next. Just like all three of the Summer Mavs’ previous games, he started slowly from the field, but did a great job of finding open teammates with creative passing.
His lob passing continues to be incredibly impressive. He threw another beauty to second-round pick Tobi Lawal with seven minutes left in the third quarter. He had 11 assists before the third quarter was over, but at that point he was also just 1-of-6 from the field and 0-of-4 from 3-point range.
His 12th dime was even prettier than the rest, on a spinning dribble move to Kaodirichi Akobundu-Ehiogu as crunch time neared. He threw a 13th to Akobundu-Ehiogu on the baseline with 2:25 left, forcing the broadcast team to remind us all that the NBA Summer League record for assists in one game is 17. He finished with 14 (and nine rebounds), and we are officially in love. He’s making us think ridiculous thoughts — like — is there a universe where, in December, de Larrea is the best guard in this year’s rookie class aside from Darryn Peterson?
We’ve seen enough. He’s got great touch and great feel. The shot will come. Rest, young man.
As the sleepy Mavericks offense found its footing early on, Vsevolod “Seva” Ishchenko made some nice plays to keep Dallas afloat. He hit the team’s first bucket of the game on a clever drive to the hoop before finding John Poulakidas on a cross-court pass for a 3-pointer that made it 9-7 Thunder with six minutes left in the first. He may not look 6’8” out there, but he plays like it. He does the things that a 6’8” body needs to do on the basketball court, but he also makes plays like a guard at times.
He’s got a nice game. He found Akobundu-Ehiogu for an incredible highlight alley-oop later in the first quarter. He and de Larrea played off one another well on a pick-and-roll action that provided de Larrea room to throw Akobundu-Ehiogu another of his three first-quarter lob finishes.
Our intrepid correspondent Tyler Edsel posited in his latest post that he didn’t think Ischhenko was ready to be on the NBA roster yet, and that may well be the case. But there’s some there there with Seva. He filled it up in the first for six points, three rebounds and a pair of assists before finishing with 12, seven and a pair of steals for the game.
Dusty May interview
First-year Mavericks head coach Dusty May was interviewed in the second quarter of Thursday’s game on the Amazon Prime broadcast. Here are some of the high points.
On where he’s at with his team at this early juncture:
“I’m still trying to learn our roster and get to know these guys and analyze what they do well. I’ve done a lot more observing than teaching or talking. Hopefully the learning curve will be small because of that.”
On this team’s defensive potential:
“You’re not going to be a championship level team at any level if you’re not playing well on both sides. Obviously, when you have a PG like Kyrie [Irving], we’ll be able to score quickly, but we have a switchable team and a good base of guys.”
On Sergio de Larrea:
“Sergio has been amazing. When you win at the level they won at with Valencia, we knew there was something to him. He’s finding his voice — learning how to lead. When he gets stronger and gets the jump shot right, he’s got a bright future in the NBA.”
On how to best deploy Cooper Flagg:
“Last year [Flagg] played a lot of point, and that expedited his growth. I foresee us playing him anywhere from 1-4. He’s one of those guys who can get 15-20 [points] without running a play for him. He runs the floor, he’s on the offensive glass, he’s competitive. I think he’ll shoot more 3-pointers. We have to get him more space.”
What to make of Akobundu-Ehiogu
Is Akobundu-Ehiogu benefiting from de Larrea’s passing, or is his own athleticism enough to make him worth a look this season? He was at the rim all afternoon once again against the Thunder, shooting 5-for-8 from the field for 12 points and five rebounds in the win.
Kao scored 16 on Monday in a similarly high-flying performance. It will be interesting to see what the Mavericks do with him after a pleasantly surprising Summer League stretch.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JULY 16: LeBron James speaks onstage during the mind the game panel at Fanatics Fest NYC 2026 at Jacob Javits Center on July 16, 2026 in New York City. (Photo by Roy Rochlin/Getty Images for Fanatics) | Getty Images for Fanatics
To the frustration of many, LeBron James didn’t announce where he was going to play next season at his live recording of the Mind the Game podcast at Fanatics Fest on Thursday afternoon. James did, however, mention in a separate interview with Rich Kleiman that he is inching closer to a decision.
“I won’t hold you guys up too much longer,” James said on Thursday.
LeBron James discusses the family aspect of his decision with Rich Kleiman:
“I have a 22-year-old son who is now a former teammate of mine … which is hilarious” pic.twitter.com/l4X6DRRteN
Anything bought from the links helps support Fear the Sword. You can also shop all of Homage’s Cavs gear HERE. The link to the 2016 championship shirt HERE.
More importantly, James detailed the factors that would influence his decision about where to play next. What’s best for his family, especially his 12-year-old daughter, Zhuri, will play a crucial role in what he decides to do.
James detailed that he pulled his daughter aside to tell her that he wouldn’t be playing for the Los Angeles Lakers next season. And because of that, he wouldn’t be home all the time, and wanted her input on the situation as an example of how much the family fit matters.
“The family portion is a big thing too,” James said. “My daughter, my wife, things of that nature. I’m a big family guy. So it’s a lot of things [that factor into this]. People are like, ‘Hurry up and make a goddamn decision Bron.’ It’s not just about the team.
“[There’s] so many other factors that I’m factoring in right now. Not only what best fits me as a player, but what fits me as a person, my happiness, and also my family as well. … The family portion of it is huge to me.”
It’s easy to see these comments and read this as meaning LeBron is going to come back to Cleveland. He still has plenty of ties to this area, and it’s a place his family has a lot of familiarity with. From that perspective, it seems like this is just setting up for a final reunion in Cleveland.
However, LeBron also seemed to indicate that the family may not be going with him to his next destination. If Los Angeles is still the home base, places like Cleveland, Miami, and Philadelphia aren’t exactly close by. Maybe the Golden State Warriors are more appealing in that situation — even though it seems like they’re currently behind the Cavs in that race.
We’ll see how this all unfolds soon enough. If we trust LeBron at his word, we hopefully won’t have to wait “too much longer” to find out where he’s planning on playing next season.
General manager Rob Pelinka has retooled the Lakers roster this summer, but it appears he’s looking to make two more moves before calling it complete.
It’s common knowledge that the Lakers are targeting free agent forward Jonathan Kuminga. The 23-year-old has expressed interest in donning the purple and gold, but Kuminga isn’t willing to take the current Lakers offer.
General manager Rob Pelinka is looking to add two key players to the roster before the offseason ends. Getty Images
Thybulle would bring the Lakers the perimeter defense the squad has lacked in recent years. He’s spent the last parts of four seasons with the Portland Trail Blazers, but has only played in a combined 132 games because of injuries.
Matisse Thybulle has spent parts of four seasons with the Trail Blazers. NBAE via Getty Images
It is important to note that Thybulle has played in over 70 games in a single season only once. During the 2025-26 campaign, Thybulle played just 30 games.
Nevertheless, Thybulle is widely recognized as an elite and disruptive defender on the court. Health is the biggest factor in Thybulle’s success as he could very well emerge as the Lakers top perimeter defender.
Thybulle has earned All-Defensive Second Team twice throughout his career.
He also has proven lethal from beyond the arc offensively. Despite a career .349 shooting percentage from downtown, the last two seasons has seen Thybulle drill triples at 44% and 40%, respectively.
The 29-year-old appears to be a great fit for the Lakers, but that would require the team to find additional money to sign Thybulle.
Jonathan Kuminga remains a free agent as the Lakers look to sign the forward. Getty Images
There are several questions surrounding the Lakers roster heading into the upcoming season, but adding Kuminga and Thybulle would certainly put some doubts to rest.
Now, it’s up to Pelinka to cement a championship roster.
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - JULY 13: Allen Graves #22 of the Toronto Raptors dribbles the ball against Braden Smith #3 of the Indiana Pacers during the first half of a 2026 NBA Summer League game at the Thomas & Mack Center on July 13, 2026 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Allen Berezovsky/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The hopes for Toronto to come away with a Summer League championship briefly diminished after their first game but have been holding steady over the last few days. Two teams remain undefeated (with one game left each), four teams clinched a 3-1 record, and six more (including Toronto have the chance to make it 3-1. From there, ranking will be based on point differential. Some matchups are among the top teams though, so those still in the running for a spot will drastically drop before the night is over.
At this point, a few stars have to align, including not only taking home a win tonight, but also setting up a significant point differential. Brooklyn’s (2-1) is 17 at the moment, so it would be tough to overtake them, unless they lose their matchup. The fourth spot would be a bit more manageable, but still hard to tell with so much basketball left to play.
So far, after the disappointing loss in the first game, the summer squad had followed up with two solid victories, prompted by strong performances from rookie Allen Graves, as well as Seth Lundy (GAME-SEALING BLOCK???) and Tyreke Key. Nate Bittle has had great minutes as a starter, seeing double digits in both points and rebounds and may be working his way into a roster spot. While final roster decisions aren’t clear, this will be everyone’s last chance for a showing that could earn them an NBA contract. Without all of the sophomore players, Toronto is giving lots of court time to the younger guys still hoping to earn a roster spot with them, or someone else by October.
Miami so far is 1-2 in Summer League, lacking in rebounding and sitting in the middle of the pack in pretty much every statistical category. They don’t turn the ball over much, ranked first among SL teams but their defence is efficient at forcing their opponents to cough up the ball.
Toronto will have to focus on keeping the ball secure by making good passes and not forcing possessions and giving them up. They’ll also need to be active on the glass and try and earn second chances that way to gain extra possessions. At their best, their defence will force Miami to make tough shots and the Raptors can come away with the rebound.
With any luck, they can follow that game plan to the buzzer and wait to see how other teams do, hoping for that top four spot.
Tune in on LeaguePass to catch the action at 9pm ET and see if Toronto is able to find a way into the championship game.
For the Knicks, winning the title already was tough.
Defending it will be even harder.
“It will be different, for sure,” star Jalen Brunson admitted Thursday at the event WSJ Sports: The Next Sports Economy. “Obviously, for the first eight years I went through disappointment, obviously losing at the end of the season. And now winning, I think it’s an even bigger challenge. Now, it’s a target on your back. Now, players and teams have changed, they’ve gotten better.
Jalen Brunson speaks during WSJ Sports: The Next Sports Economy at Lincoln Center on July 16, 2026. Getty Images
“So, how are we going to evolve as a team? How are we going to figure out what’s the next step for us? And that’s going to be a really big, important question coming in the training camp: How are we going to be better? How are we going to literally look at the trophy, know that was last year and then forget about it? And so, it’s going to be a very interesting training camp to see where our mind’s at. But I’m excited for the challenge.”
Brunson captained the Knicks to a thrilling NBA Finals victory over the Spurs, helping them end their 53-year title drought. As challenging as that was, he knows defending that crown will be even tougher, with the league now in an era of parity.
New punitive financial restrictions, like the second apron of the luxury tax, have led to eight different winners in the last eight years. Though the Western Conference is loaded with San Antonio and Oklahoma City at the top, the East has gotten tougher around the Knicks.
For the reigning champs, standing still could mean falling behind. They’ve already lost center Mitchell Robinson, but they can’t afford to lose their edge as well. Between their truncated offseason, and being toasted and feted and told how great they are, that can be a challenge in its own right.
“Absolutely,” Brunson said. “You definitely lose a lot of time — obviously for the right reason; we got it done — to be able to go through the summer and realize, ‘All right, there’s a lot on your plate now.’
“How are you going to remain hungry? How are you going to remain focused? How are you going to push the envelope for you to be better the next time? So, those are all questions that I believe I have the answers for. I feel like I know what I’m doing to push myself. But only time will tell.”
Brunson is a founding member of the JPMorganChase Athlete Council, which helps athletes handle their finances. The All-Star famously took less money in his extension with the Knicks to help them build out their roster.
It paid off. Once they got back to the Eastern Conference finals — where they’d lost the previous year to the Pacers — Brunson said he knew they had a real shot at breaking through. They put those hard-learned lessons to use, and their series of comeback victories against the Spurs in the NBA Finals closed the deal.
“I think once we got to the conference finals — obviously we lost there a season ago — just getting back there, back to where we were, we understand what we did last time and how can we change that,” Brunson said.
Jalen Brunson and the Knicks celebrate winning the NBA championship. Charles Wenzelberg / New York Post
“I think once we started to continue to win there, [I knew] we [would] actually have a chance. But it was I think the best part about it: We just kept chipping away the entire season and just kept chipping away, chipping away. You just never knew when things were going to break through. And having that mindset, then once they actually did, it was kind of a sigh of relief.”
Now, Brunson said he’ll enjoy some downtime with his family, recover from surgery on his left wrist and forearm and then turn his eyes toward a title defense — even if it is with Robinson playing for rival Boston.
“First and foremost, I love Mitch. I’m happy for Mitch. I will always love Mitch except those four times we play him,” Brunson said. “But, that’s my brother. I’m super excited for him. It’s a great opportunity for him. And, yeah, I’m happy … except for those four times.”
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 09: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers has words with a fan sitting in the front row during their game against the Golden State Warriors at Chase Center on April 09, 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 Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) | Getty Images
It’s all of our biggest fear. Could LeBron James duck another return to the Cleveland Cavaliers in favor of the Golden State Warriors?
ESPN’s Shams Charania seems doubtful.
In what has been an endless loop of reporting, Charania provided yet another update on James’ desires for his next team. The latest? James is still favoring a handful of teams over the Warriors.
“[The Warriors] are, to my knowledge, behind other teams such as Miami, Cleveland, and Philadelphia,” Charania said on ESPN today.
This tracks with what we’ve previously heard. It was reported earlier this week that multiple Western Conference execs believe LeBron is headed East. Marc Stein says that many of these execs feel that Cleveland is the ‘scenario to beat’ in chasing LeBron.
That should speak for itself.
Joining the Warriors would be the most controversial thing James could do this summer (in terms of basketball). There is no other team in the association that has been a bigger rival or cost him more titles. Choosing to end his career with the franchise that will be remembered as his greatest foe would be quite the decision.
There’s natural interest in teaming up with Stephen Curry. The two were a dynamic duo in the 2024 Olympic Games and would be finishing their careers with a bang. Yet, that scenario feels like something you’d accept in NBA 2K. Not real life. Most fans outside of California would feel conflicted watching James in a Golden State jersey.
James wouldn’t face much backlash if he joined any other team. He already has a relationship with Miami and there’s relatively zero animosity between him and Philadelphia. Both fan bases would welcome him with open arms, and neutral fans would mostly accept his decision.
Of course, Cleveland is the overwhelming favorite from a narrative perspective. Call me biased — but I don’t see how a final homecoming can be topped by any other scenario. This is the storybook ending that’s been discussed for years.
We won’t know the answer for some time still. Though James recently promised that he wouldn’t leave us hanging much longer. Until then, we can only scroll social media and wait for more updates.
Los Angeles’ crosstown rivalry reignited Tuesday about 300 miles away from their respective arenas.
A potential highlight transition dunk from Adou Thiero turned into a hard foul, deemed reckless enough to be upgraded to a flagrant. Some extra pushing and shoving followed, resulting in technicals.
Thiero and the Summer League Lakers brushed off the mini scuffle and went on to win their fifth straight game, including three in a row to remain undefeated in Las Vegas. The purple and gold’s 36th overall pick from a year ago finished with 13 points, six rebounds, a steal and a block in 27 minutes.
As has been the case all summer, the numbers don’t do justice to the impact of his athletic force on both ends of the floor. With the Lakers roster clearly devoid of athletic wings, it gives way for Thiero to make his case for a real potential spot on the floor.
Even while entering only 25 games last year due to injuries, Thiero has played 100 more minutes than the next-closest player on the Summer League roster. In this summer exhibition environment, experienced second-year players are relied on to lead their teams.
On offense, there’s not much coloring outside the lines. It’s a simple but effective diet of relentless drives to the basket as he’s determined to get downhill with force at any opportunity. Without many playmakers to accompany him, Thiero is relied on as a main creator to manufacture paint touches and kickouts. In Vegas, he’s second on the team in assists.
He’s oscillated between being a screener and operating in the short roll and running actions as the ball handler, as shown below. Watch as he gets a ghost screen from fellow summer standout Cameron Carr. A bump of the shoulder sends his defender flying before he dips into his bag for a hard gather crossover finish at the basket.
These drives and paint touches collapse the defense, creating ample opportunities to be a playmaker. After a few rough games in the California Classic while getting his feet under him, Thiero’s shown much better poise on his drives. Rather than force off-balance shots at the rim, he opted to find teammates for kick-out threes or cutters at the rim.
His downhill force and highlight-dunk finishing ability have teams walling off the paint against him. Watch below as he comes off a screen action in the corner, splits the defense with an under-control spin and flings the pass back out for a wide open 3-pointer.
Where he’s unstoppable is on the break and it’s not hyperbole to say Thiero is the best transition athlete currently on the Lakers. Listed at 6’5, 220 pounds, he walks around with a trampoline to launch from for lobs and thunderous dunks.
Watch below as the Lakers force a turnover and Thiero acts as the trailer in the play. Once he gets momentum going downhill, the seas part and he finishes with a powerful slam.
As with any young player on a team hoping to be in contention, Thiero’s minutes will be determined by his ability to lock in on the defensive end. Projecting him into the Lakers’ rotation, his potential as a predator on defense is an enticing fit.
His five steals in Vegas leads the team, picking players from behind with great hands and turnovers with ball pressure. Offensive players have even chosen to avoid attacking him, moving the ball or calling for a screen to switch to a different defender.
The Arkansas product has used his athletic powers to recover for some impressive chase-down blocks. Watch below as the offensive player hears footsteps and gets engulfed at the apex of his jump. Thiero goes up with two hands, prepared for the takeaway on either side.
His three blocks in Vegas are second behind center Anton Watson.
Thiero is still a very raw prospect in many aspects, evidenced by his refusal to take any shot outside the paint. The drives toe the line between force and recklessness, showing a clear need for development in reading the defense and improved spatial awareness. Athletic advantages won’t be as pronounced against NBA competition, and, as with most young players, his defensive focus on and off the ball can fade in interest.
With all that being said, the Lakers are starved for uber-athletic wings to pair around Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves, as proven by reports of interest in potentially adding Jonathan Kuminga and signing Ziaire Williams to a minimum contract.
Barring a carryover of health issues from last season, Thiero’s two-way athletic profile provides a hopeful road map to a run at minutes next season in year two.
LAS VEGAS, NV - JULY 14: Chaney Johnson #31 of the Brooklyn Nets drives to the basket during the game against the Sacramento Kings 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
Well, that was fun! The Nets absolutely dominated on Tuesday with a 115-83 victory against the Kings. It was arguably the best we’ve seen the Flatbush Five play together, and certainly the best Brooklyn has played this summer. And that’s saying something.
They’ll move onto face the Houston Rockets in their final pool play match of Las Vegas NBA Summer League. There are 12 teams competing 12 for four semifinal spots, meaning the might or might not be the last game for another 3+ months. Enjoy!
📺 Watch
Watch: YES Network, Gotham Sports, ESPNU
Who: Nets vs. Rockets
When: Tip after 4:30 PM
💬 Discussion
Share your thoughts and react, but please be respectful. NetsDaily prides itself on being a safe space for Nets and basketball fans alike to have healthy conversation. Reach out to Anthony Puccio or Net Income with any issues.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JULY 16: LeBron James speaks onstage during the mind the game panel at Fanatics Fest NYC 2026 at Jacob Javits Center on July 16, 2026 in New York City. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for Fanatics) | Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for Fan
Despite what most people expected when the summer began, LeBron James’ free agency has been the biggest storyline of the 2026 NBA offseason. James delivered a shocker at the beginning of the free agency period, announcing that he would not be returning to the Los Angeles Lakers. For the fourth time in his historic career, the league’s all-time leading scorer will hand pick his next home.
There are a lot of intriguing options. While James has been linked to about a third of the league’s teams, the rumors have persisted about four enticing options: a third stint with his hometown Cleveland Cavaliers, bookending his career with a return home to team with Donovan Mitchell, James Harden, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen; a second stint with the Miami Heat, where he won half of his four NBA championships, and a chance to join Giannis Antetokounmpo and Bam Adebayo; a surprising pivot to the Philadelphia 76ers, who suddenly have a tremendous core of Tyrese Maxey, Jaylen Brown, Joel Embiid, and V.J. Edgecombe; and, of course, a link up with his long-time frenemies Steph Curry and Draymond Green with the Golden State Warriors.
It’s entirely unclear where the Warriors stand. Most of the reports have suggested that they’re a secondary option behind that trio of competitors, but a few hints and rumors seem to suggest that the Dubs have a good chance. Many of the prediction markets have shifted to the Warriors being favorites, and while I despite those things with a passion, such shifts are often due to some sort of insider information.
And then there are the little bits and pieces that probably mean nothing but we all overanalyze just in case. On Wednesday, Warriors coach Steve Kerr playfully told Warriors fans, “We got him” when asked at a red light about signing James. At roughly the same time, a Pardon the Interruption podcast was mistakenly released with the title, “Steph Curry Behind LeBron’s Stunning Decision?”
These things mean, almost certainly, nothing. It’s deeply improbably that Kerr or ESPN would have this information before James reveals it. Kerr’s soundbite was almost certainly just a playful and lighthearted joke, while ESPN’s faux pas was most likely a pre-written headline that was accidentally published instead of staying in the batter’s box for if it was needed.
One thing is certain: as silly and entertaining as all these rumors, reports, and conspiracy theories are, it will be a breath of fresh air when they’re finished. And it seems like we’re nearing that moment, according to the man himself.
James was in New York on Thursday for Fanatics Fest to speak at the Game Plan Summit, presented by CNBC and Boardroom (the latter being Kevin Durant’s media company). The 22-time All-Star was a scheduled speaker along with other industry titans such as Durant, Adam Silver, Cathy Engelbert, Diana Taurasi, Dana White, Elle Duncan, Michael Rubin, Rich Kleiman, Lindsey Vonn, and Jimmy Pitaro. While speaking during a panel, James hinted at a timeline for his decision, saying simply, “I won’t hold you guys up too much longer.”
The four-time MVP didn’t offer any hints as to where he would land, but did express excitement and optimism, saying, “Looking forward to what’s next as I wind down the final stages of my journey … It’s going to be pretty fun wherever I land. I’m going to do what I do best.”
Of course, “much longer” isn’t exactly a firm date, so who knows. We may still be doing this song and dance when the calendar rolls into August. It will all be worth it for one franchise, at least…
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Charania appeared on an episode of ESPN’s “Pat McAfee Show” on Thursday and said, “I don’t know if I’m holding my breath for an announcement this week.” He added that he believes the process is “getting closer and closer to the end.”
ESPN insider Shams Charania said LeBron James has narrowed his list. NBAE via Getty Images
Charania then spoke about how three to five NBA owners have sent voice memos to James’ agent Rich Paul, who has then sent these voice memos to James.
“We’re looking at a group of teams: the Cavs, the Heat, the Warriors, the Sixers and the Timberwolves. But my feel, when I talk to teams around the league … the focus is really on the top contending teams for this being the Cavaliers, the Heat and the 76ers,” Charania added.
LeBron James was mum Thursday about his plans. JASON SZENES/ NY POST
"I think as we get into next week LeBron James is getting closer and closer to making a decision..
McAfee quickly noted that Charania left out the Warriors during this comment, to which Charania said, “I don’t think I did. Did I?” He clarified his report to “throw [the Warriors] in there.”
Therefore, it seems like James’ ultimate decision has been narrowed to the four teams Charania mentioned, while the Timberwolves are still involved. This means the Nuggets, who looked to be a potential landing spot for James earlier this month, are all but out of the running.
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LeBron James celebrated winning the 2020 NBA championship with the Lakers. USA TODAY Sports
James didn’t announce his decision during his live taping of the “Mind the Game” podcast at Fanatics Fest on Thursday.
Assuming he doesn’t do so at the Game Plan Summit event presented by CNBC and Boardroom later Thursday, fans might have to wait until the weekend to find out which team James decides to join for his 24th NBA season.
LeBron James to the Golden State Warriors has been a rising topic in recent days. Betting odds have turned in their favor, anonymous NBA executives think it's a natural fit too, Steph Curry's making pitches at celebrity golf events, and even Steve Kerr jokingly acknowledged all the headlines by telling a fan "We got him," at a stoplight.
But despite all the momentum seemingly pointing towards the Bay Area, ESPN's Shams Charania poured cold water on that sentiment in his latest report.
During a segment on the "Pat McAfee Show" on Thursday, Charania asserted his belief that the Warriors are behind the Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat and Philadelphia 76ers as contenders to sign the league's all-time leading scorer.
"The issue I think with LeBron James, when you look at that team with the Warriors: if he's there, is that team good enough?" Charania said. "I think that's the big question. … If you add LeBron James to the Cavaliers, that's a hole at the three position that they need. You add him to the Sixers, he slides right into the starting lineup. That's a contender. Cavs, contender. Heat, complete contender the moment he gets there.
"The Warriors would need a little bit of work still."
“To my knowledge, the Warriors are behind the Cavs, Heat and 76ers right now,” - @ShamsCharania with the least on the teams trying to get LeBron James. pic.twitter.com/8czE9HGOOQ
Golden State's original plan this offseason was reportedly to sign James and make a trade with the Washington Wizards for Anthony Davis, reuniting the Los Angeles Lakers' 2020 championship duo and pairing them alongside Curry to give their star one last serious push for a fifth NBA title.
That fell apart when the Wizards made it clear they have no interest in sending Davis anywhere, leaving Mike Dunleavy and co. to continue their pursuit of James singularly.
That, Charania says, keeps the Warriors from being true contenders even if they sign James and what ultimately pushes them back in the running for his services.
"So far, we're 16 days into July and there's been no real traction on any trade conversation the Warriors have had on AD or any other star," he told McAfee. "... The Sixers literally got on the map the moment they got Jaylen Brown. They were not even in the picture. Such as goes to show, you make moves, you can get LeBron James's attention especially in this free agency."
James did a live podcast of "Mind the Game" with Tyrese Haliburton at Fanatics Fest in New York but avoided showing any signs of which way he might be leaning on his looming decision.
