LeBron James won’t be speaking to teams directly in free agency as Rich Paul will handle all communications. 2026 Richard Rodriguez
James received mixed reviews by the public for his decision to leave the Los Angeles Lakers after eight seasons. He will likely continue receiving praise and backlash in this next stage of his career.
Being the top free agent of the summer means James makes headlines everyday as everyone is curious where the veteran will land. There seems to be a general consensus that the Cleveland Cavaliers and Miami Heat are favorites in the James sweepstakes, but what is James didn’t return to a former team and instead chose a new one?
NBA insider Brian Windhorst answered the question and explained why there may be added criticism for James if he joins a team he’s never played for throughout his storied career.
“It would be interesting, not surprising,” Windhorst said on the Yahoo Sports Daily podcast. “One of the things that I think LeBron is going to have to decide is how much he cares about what people will think if he goes to a team he’s never played for. Basically, if he chooses somebody besides Cleveland or Miami. Because Cleveland and Miami, it’s a very clean decision. It makes sense.
Brian Windhorst discussed LeBron James’ free agency decision in a recent podcast appearance. NBAE via Getty Images
“Does he want to deal with what the reaction would be if he went to Philadelphia or Minnesota or Denver or something like that where it would be a sort of new place and he would have to create new ties and learn new routines. And also deal with people calling him a ring chaser or what have you.
“I think that’s an extra layer that he’s had to grapple with. I think he absolutely could do it. I don’t think that’s a reason he’d say no.”
.@WindhorstESPN weighs the potential backlash surrounding LeBron's next move
As James mulls over options, he’s looking for the place where he’ll find complete happiness. According to his agent Rich Paul, the four-time NBA champion is prioritizing contentment over a championship.
Perhaps, he could find both somewhere this summer.
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 07: LeBron James speaks with Stephen Curry following a basketball game between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Golden State Warriors at Crypto.com Arena on February 07, 2026 in Los Angeles, 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 Allen Berezovsky/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The Cleveland Cavaliers and Golden State Warriors are among the handful of teams that are trying to convince LeBron James to join them in free agency. On Wednesday afternoon, Warriors guard Steph Curry was asked about the possibility of playing with James and decided to pivot the conversation elsewhere. “I’d say more, so I’m interested to just golf with LeBron.”
Steph Curry on the possibility of playing with LeBron James:
“I’d say more so I’m interested to just play golf with LeBron. We’ll handle the basketball stuff, but I want to see the golf LeBron free agent. He’s out here really grinding on the game. But I’m sure we obviously would… pic.twitter.com/aGcZhc5PYI
Curry went on to say that he would “love to play together,” but mostly seemed much less enthusiastic about what a team-up on the hardwood would look like.
Golf is certainly something James has been doing a lot of this summer back in Akron. He’s been posting videos of himself golfing seemingly whenever he can, including Wednesday afternoon.
LeBron James vibing on the golf course without a care in the world right now 😂😂😂 pic.twitter.com/VqRweF13Y4
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.
LeBron would probably be open to playing golf with Curry, whether or not he’s interested in joining him in Golden State is another question entirely.
ESPN’s Shams Charania has narrowed the list of James’s potential suitors to three top teams: the Cavs, Miami Heat, and Philadelphia 76ers. The Warriors weren’t one of those teams listed, but Charania said that they could get back into that conversation if they were able to trade for Anthony Davis from the Washington Wizards.
It’s also been reported that James and Draymond Green — who is currently a free agent — are meeting up this weekend. What that could be about is anyone’s guess.
We don’t know what LeBron is going to do. There are signs that point to his return to Cleveland. And while that may be the most likely outcome, we can’t rule out other possibilities quite yet. That includes the Warriors, even though their best player may be more excited about playing golf with James than he is about playing basketball.
SALT LAKE CITY, UT - JULY 6: Zuby Ejiofor #20 of the Atlanta Hawks looks to pass the ball during the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder during the 2026 NBA Salt Lake City Summer League on July 6, 2026 at Jon M. Huntsman Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. 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 Melissa Majchrzak/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
This year’s NBA Summer League may be its most anticipated iteration for St. John’s basketball fans. Eight former Red Storm players will descend on Las Vegas hoping to make a strong impression for their respective teams, perhaps the largest contingent of Johnnies since the tournament began.
The octet of Johnnies features a trio of 2026 NBA draft selections in Zuby Ejiofor (Atlanta Hawks), Dillon Mitchell (Boston Celtics), and Bryce Hopkins (Denver Nuggets), as well as undrafted alumni like Oziyah Sellers (New York Knicks), Kadary Richmond (Washington Wizards), Deivon Smith (Golden State Warriors), Aaron Scott (Brooklyn Nets), and Chris Ledlum (Houston Rockets) who are all seeking to take the next step toward an NBA roster spot.
Here is how to follow all these players throughout the Summer League, which runs from Thursday, July 9 to Sunday, July 19. All game times are Eastern, and any matchups in which St. John’s players are rostered on both teams will be listed with a hash sign (#).
Zuby Ejiofor, Atlanta Hawks
After snapping St. John’s’ 11-year draftless drought when he was selected in the first round with the 23rd overall pick by the Hawks, Zuby Ejiofor is already showing Atlanta that they made the right choice. The reigning Big East Player of the Year averaged 13.5 points and a tournament-best 13.0 rebounds during the Salt Lake City Summer League event, and outplayed first-round pick Aday Mara when he posted a 19-point, 15-rebound double-double in a win over the Oklahoma City Thunder. Block off your calendar for any plans on July 13 when Zuby Ejiofor takes on his former frontcourt mate Dillon Mitchell.
Thu, July 9: vs. San Antonio Spurs — 4:30 p.m. (ESPN2)
Sat, July 11: vs. Brooklyn Nets — 8 p.m. (ESPN) – #
Mon, July 13: vs. Boston Celtics — 6 p.m. (Prime) – #
Thu, July 16: vs. Memphis Grizzlies — 8 p.m. (Prime)
Dillon Mitchell, Boston Celtics
Mitchell was taken with the 40th overall selection in the 2026 NBA draft and should sign with the Celtics on a two-way deal as the team begins its post-Jaylen Brown era. He is expected to start alongside fellow 2026 selection Chris Cenac, Jr. and promising wing prospect Hugo Gonzalez. Also joining Mitchell is Day Day Thomas, who he was teammates with at Cincinnati during the 2024-25 season.
Fri, July 10: vs. Toronto Raptors — 9 p.m. (ESPN)
Sun, July 12: vs. Charlotte Hornets — 5 p.m. (ESPN2)
Mon, July 13: vs. Atlanta Hawks — 6 p.m. (Prime) – #
Wed, July 15: vs. Sacramento Kings — 8 p.m. (ESPN2)
Bryce Hopkins, Denver Nuggets
Hopkins rounded out the hat trick of St. John’s draft picks when he was picked with the 49th overall selection by the Denver Nuggets, and is also a two-way deal candidate. The two-time All-Big East selection caught attention at the Nuggets’ Summer League practice on Monday when he pulled off a posterizing dunk over the taller Osayi Osifo.
Fri, July 10: vs. Houston Rockets — 6:30 p.m. (ESPN2) – #
Sat, July 11: vs. Minnesota Timberwolves — 7:30 p.m. (Prime)
Tue, July 14: vs. Oklahoma City Thunder — 9 p.m. (ESPN)
Thu, July 16: vs. Portland Trail Blazers — 10 p.m. (Prime)
Oziyah Sellers, New York Knicks
Following his first and only season at St. John’s, Oziyah Sellers isn’t done representing the Big Apple. The sharpshooting guard inked a Summer League deal with the defending NBA champion New York Knicks, with the hopes he can put on a great performance in Las Vegas and parlay that into an Exhibit 10 or a two-way contract in the league.
Fri, July 10: vs. Brooklyn Nets — 6 p.m. (MSG/Prime Video) – #
Sat, July 11: vs. San Antonio Spurs — 6 p.m. (MSG/ESPN)
Mon, July 13: vs. Detroit Pistons — 4 p.m. (MSG/Prime)
Thu, July 16: vs. Golden State Warriors — 7 p.m. (MSG/ESPN2) – #
Kadary Richmond, Washington Wizards
Richmond is the only Red Storm alum competing in this year’s NBA Summer League who has already spent time in the league. After graduation last year, Richmond signed a G-League deal with the Washington Wizards’ affiliate Capital City Go-Go, and performed well enough to earn a 10-day contract with the Wizards in February. The Brooklyn native averaged 8.3 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 2.7 assists in only three appearances in the NBA before he returned to the G-League once his 10-day deal expired.
Thu, July 9: vs. Utah Jazz — 9 p.m. (ESPN)
Sun, July 12: vs. Sacramento Kings — 8 p.m. (Prime)
Tue, July 14: vs. Chicago Bulls — 8 p.m. (Prime)
Wed, July 15: vs. Los Angeles Clippers — 10:30 p.m. (ESPN)
Deivon Smith, Golden State Warriors
Smith is appearing in his second Summer League with as many teams. He only played in two games with his hometown Atlanta Hawks in last year’s tournament, but already received more playing time with the Golden State Warriors during the California Classic Summer League last week, recording 11.0 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 3.7 assists in three games and even showing his bounce in a game against the San Antonio Spurs.
Thu, July 9: vs. Dallas Mavericks — 7 p.m. (ESPN)
Sun, July 12: vs. Oklahoma City Thunder — 6 p.m. (Prime)
Tue, July 14: vs. Memphis Grizzlies — 7 p.m. (ESPN)
Thu, July 16: vs. New York Knicks — 7 p.m. (ESPN2) – #
Aaron Scott, Brooklyn Nets
Like Smith, Aaron Scott is also playing for his second team in the Summer League. The versatile defensive wing only had a cup of coffee with the Celtics in last year’s Summer League, but could be in line for a larger role with the Nets this year. He’s averaged 7.0 points and 5.5 rebounds coming off the bench in two games during the California Classic Summer League.
Fri, July 10: vs. New York Knicks — 6 p.m. (Prime) – #
Sat, July 11: vs. Atlanta Hawks — 8 p.m. (ESPN) – #
Tue, July 14: vs. Sacramento Kings — 6 p.m. (Prime)
Thu, July 16: vs. Houston Rockets — 4:30 p.m. (ESPNU) – #
Chris Ledlum, Houston Rockets
This will be Ledlum’s second consecutive year of playing with the Rockets in the Summer League. The Brooklyn native totaled 7.2 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 2.0 blocks per game in five games in last year’s tournament, and is hoping a stronger performance can earn him a deal to remain stateside. Ledlum spent the first two seasons of his professional career playing overseas in France and Germany.
Fri, July 10: vs. Denver Nuggets — 6:30 p.m. (ESPN2) – #
Sat, July 11: vs. Toronto Raptors — 9:30 p.m. (Prime)
Tue, July 14: vs. Philadelphia 76ers — 4 p.m. (Prime)
Thu, July 16: vs. Brooklyn Nets — 4:30 p.m. (ESPNU) – #
Mar 22, 2025; Denver, CO, USA; Wisconsin Badgers forward Steven Crowl (22) reacts against the Brigham Young Cougars during the second half in the second round of the NCAA Tournament at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images | Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images
Last offseason, after being an undrafted free agent, former Wisconsin Badgers center Steven Crowl found a home with the Utah Jazz on an Exhibit 10 contract, playing with them in the NBA Summer League and the G League.
Crowl played in 31 regular-season games for the Salt Lake City Stars, Utah’s G League affiliate, making 22 starts and averaging 24.5 minutes a contest. He dropped 6.0 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game, while shooting 69.3 percent from the field.
He was joined by fellow former Badgers Max Klesmit and John Tonje, who both also played in Salt Lake City. Tonje was traded midway through the season, though, while Klesmit saw 26 games of action with the Stars.
Well, Crowl has found a new home this summer, as 247Sports’s Dushawn London reported that he will be playing for the Detroit Pistons Summer League team, with games starting up this week.
Crowl, 25, averaged 9.7 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 2.0 assists, while shooting 52.5 percent from the field and 36.3 percent from three across 153 career games at Wisconsin.
Currently, on their summer league roster, the Pistons have Ugonna Onyenso, Basheer Jihad, and Isaac Jones as the primary forwards/centers available.
There is speculation that the NBA veteran’s former teams have an edge in the sweepstakes because of the familiarity each presents.
James made two stints with the Cleveland Cavaliers, winning one ring during his tenure with the organization.
LeBron James’ free agency decision is one of the biggest NBA stories of the summer. Getty Images
The 41-year-old also spent four glorious seasons with the Miami Heat, winning two titles and a pair of Finals MVPs. While Cleveland is home for James, he’s carried mantras and mentality from his time in Miami.
Now, there’s an opportunity for James to return to Cleveland or Miami.
There’s speculation that the Cavaliers are the frontrunner for James, but the latest update could turn the tide in favor of the Heat.
Miami is reportedly open to giving Bronny James a two-way contract if LeBron James signs with the team, according to On SI’s Ethan J. Skolnick.
Bronny James’ contract with the Lakers became fully guaranteed the day before LeBron James informed the Lakers he would be leaving the organization. Getty Images
The Miami Heat would be open to giving Bronny James a two way contract if they sign LeBron, per @EthanJSkolnick
James informed the Los Angeles Lakers he would not return for the upcoming season the day before his son’s $2.3 million contract with the team became fully guaranteed. Now, Bronny is eligible to be traded and the Heat appear to be open to welcoming the 21-year-old.
But Miami’s willingness to sign Bronny to a two-way deal is contingent on James’ decision.
LeBron James is reportedly interested in continuing the father-son duo with Bronny James on the court. Getty Images
Aside from his previous teams, there have been several suitors linked to James this summer, including the Philadelphia 76ers, Golden State Warriors, Denver Nuggets and Minnesota Timberwolves.
Interested teams have opted to publicly make free agent pitches to James as the NBA’s all-time leading scorer mulls over the next step of his storied career.
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Curry competed in the American Century Championship, a celebrity golf tournament that takes place at Edgewood Tahoe Resort. The Warriors star was asked about the possibility of teaming up with James in the Bay.
LeBron James is the top free agent of the summer and everyone wants to know where he’ll go next after eight seasons with the Lakers. Best Image / BACKGRID
“I’d say more so I’m interested to just play golf with LeBron. We’ll handle the basketball stuff, but I want to see the golf LeBron free agent. He’s out here really grinding on the game. But I’m sure we obviously would love to play together,” Curry said Wednesday.
“I mean, hopefully it happens. But he’s deserved the opportunity and the right to take his time with the decision.”
Steph Curry on the possibility of playing with LeBron James:
“I’d say more so I’m interested to just play golf with LeBron. We’ll handle the basketball stuff, but I want to see the golf LeBron free agent. He’s out here really grinding on the game. But I’m sure we obviously would… pic.twitter.com/aGcZhc5PYI
The Cleveland Cavaliers and Miami Heat appear to have an edge over other suitors in the race for James, but the details into the process largely remain a mystery.
LeBron James, Steph Curry teamed up for Paris Olympics
In 2024, James and Curry teamed up for the first time in their careers during the Paris Olympics. The star-studded duo led to Team USA to a gold medal and demonstrated undeniably chemistry on the court.
James also had the opportunity to work with Warriors head coach Steve Kerr during their gold medal run.
It’s highly unlikely James or Curry will play together on the international stage again as both players don’t plan on returning for the 2028 Olympics.
But the future Hall of Famers have a chance to team up once more.
Having long wanted to play with one another, Curry and James led Team USA to a gold medal at the 2024 Summer Olympics in one of the greatest basketball games of all time. AFP via Getty Images
LeBron James, Warriors deal would have to include Anthony Davis trade
The cost for the Warriors to sign James is steep, however, as NBA insider Shams Charania reported the NBA’s all-time leading scorer wants the team to acquire Anthony Davis.
The Warriors could still trade for Davis from the Washington Wizards, but the return package would be exorbitant and would likely include Warriors star Jimmy Butler. The Wizards would have the upper hand in said trade and would certainly demand an high price given the Warriors’ desperation to bring both James and Davis to the Bay.
Golden State engaging in trade talks for Davis would also first require reassurance from James that he’d sign with the Warriors.
James and his camp have been very discreet in their deliberations, and while the Warriors remain a possibility for the 41-year-old, there are other teams that appear to be ahead of Golden State.
If James signed with the Cavaliers, he’d get the opportunity to end his career where he started it.
Signing with Miami would bring James back to the place where he won two NBA titles and a pair of Finals MVP awards.
But at this stage of his career, James is looking for complete basketball happiness.
Could that be found by teaming up with Curry? Possibly.
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Larry Nance Jr. is the kind of veteran that coaches and front offices like to have on playoff teams: He can give you some backup big minutes during the season, but also is great in the locker room and has seen a lot, he can be a calming influence when needed.
An 11-year veteran, Nance played in 35 games back home in Cleveland last season, missing time largely due to a calf strain. When he did play, he averaged 3.7 points and 2.7 rebounds a game in limited minutes. The concern is his health, he's played in 59 total games across the past two seasons.
The finances on this will likely mean another move. The Pacers are hard-capped at the first apron and are $1.9 million below that number, according to Spotrac. While a veteran minimum only counts as $2.4 million against the cap (Nance gets paid the full $3.9 million), Indiana needs to make another move to get under that hard cap number. The Pacers have a couple of young players on non- or partially guaranteed deals that could be let go (Micah Potter or Quenton Jackson). Or, Nance could sign an Exhibit 10 version of the contract, which is non-guaranteed and would not count against the cap (because it is generally given to players invited to training camp and headed to the G League, but that is not the case with Nance, the deal could be converted to a standard deal down the line).
PHILADELPHIA, PA - APRIL 30: The sneakers worn by VJ Edgecombe #77 of the Philadelphia 76ers during the game against the Boston Celtics during Round One Game Six of the 2026 NBA Playoffs on April 30, 2026 at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 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
CLEVELAND, OHIO - JANUARY 28: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts during the fourth quarter against the Cleveland Cavaliers 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
LeBron James’ career has been the ultimate touchdown.
A teenage phenom who has remained relevant into his 40s. A transcendent superstar who outlasted everyone and won a title for each city he’s represented. He even managed to break a curse and fulfill his promise to the Cleveland Cavaliers.
James has done it all while actively crafting the narrative to his liking.
So why would he risk fumbling the ending to his story?
Let’s make one thing clear before we go further:
There’s nothing James can do now (on a basketball court) that would jeopardize anything he’s accomplished thus far. His resume is bulletproof. Any reasonable person would have James as the 1A or 1B in GOAT conversations — and his final season won’t negatively change that.
Instead, James has entered an almost unique situation.
He’s old enough that simply being on the court is an accomplishment. Anything positive that he does is seen as overachieving for a 41-year-old in professional sports. Any shortcomings can be justifiably excused by his age.
He can only benefit his career at this point. Nothing he does will hurt his legacy.
That is… for one exception.
James has always been conscious of his perception. It’s something he’s openly reflected on. His presence in the media, being one of the most accessible superstars of all time, is a testament to that. This is someone who understands the importance of narrative and has worked through the decades to control his own.
He left Cleveland in 2010 to erase the ‘loser’ label from his name. He returned in 2014 to vindicate himself from being remembered as a traitor. He departed once more in 2018, this time on good terms with his hometown, to play for a historic franchise and check one final box off his list. Winning for the Los Angeles Lakers is as bona fide as it gets.
But now James faces one final decision. One that will undoubtedly be influenced by narrative. He’s handcrafted his legacy for far too long to ignore it now.
The answer is obvious.
A return to Cleveland, with a genuine chance at one more championship, is the type of story that would feel too cheesy even for a Disney movie. It’s the highest of all highs, an accomplishment that ranks significantly above any other possible outcome for his grand finale.
The alternatives are just not as exciting. James would only be seen as a glorified sidekick with the Warriors, Heat, Timberwolves, Nuggets, or 76ers. He’ll never be seen as ‘the guy’ by those franchises. It wouldn’t be the same.
Cleveland is the only city where he can embrace a supporting role while still reigning as King. He’s the man here in a way that he can’t be anywhere else.
This isn’t to say that winning a title in a different city would be disappointing. Of course not. But the potential boost to his legacy by winning again in Cleveland is unprecedented. No one in league history has a story that would even come close.
Finally, there’s one more thing to take into account.
James is as universally loved as an athlete can be in Cleveland.
Most fans had already made peace with him potentially retiring in Los Angeles. I think fans could have even stomached James joining a different team if he had made his decision swiftly on July 1.
But this hasn’t been swift.
The prolonged decision has made fans invest again. Cleveland has their heart set on another return. There’s genuine hope for a homecoming.
Shattering those expectations and invoking the heartbreak of 2010 would be an incredibly unforced error by James. He’d be tainting a relationship that currently has no flaws.
This is a feeling that can’t be replicated anywhere else. It can’t be faked.
Playing one more season in Cleveland would guarantee that feeling on a nightly basis. Every game would be a heartfelt rally. A farewell tour for the ages.
That feeling would be blunted if James took his talents somewhere else this summer.
The legacy and foundation that he carefully built would have a different ending than what was expected.
His final ovation in Cleveland would be more bittersweet, with every fan in the arena knowing that he chose to deny them his finale.
Of course, fans are not owed anything. And there is no denying that James will be fondly remembered in Cleveland, no matter where he ends his career.
Still…
James is approaching the goal line of one of the most picture-perfect careers in sports history.
He can either punch it home one final time and finish with a bang. Or, it can end anticlimactically, running the clock out for a city that will always be remembered second, or even last, in his story.
In my opinion, he’s too smart to choose the latter.
TORONTO, CANADA - MAY 1: Craig Porter Jr. #9, Larry Nance Jr. #22, and Jaylon Tyson #20 of the Cleveland Cavaliers listen to the national anthem before the game against the Toronto Raptors during Round One Game Six of the 2026 NBA Playoffs on May 1, 2026 at the Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. 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 Vaughn Ridley/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
It was reported on Wednesday, via Shams Charania, that forward Larry Nance has agreed to a one-year, $4 million contract with the Indiana Pacers. Nance is projected to be a reserve big who will make his mark as a veteran presence in spot minutes for a Pacers team looking to get back to competing in the Eastern Conference.
Free agent C/F Larry Nance Jr. has agreed to a one-year, $4 million deal with the Indiana Pacers, sources tell ESPN. pic.twitter.com/VaSyOgtj87
When Nance Jr was signed by the Cleveland Cavaliers last offseason, the expectation was that he would provide additional front-court depth with his ability to play the three through small-ball five. The positional versatility at a cheap price was a huge win for the second-apron Cavaliers. What was presented as an affordable, reliable contributor to the rotation was a dream that never really came to fruition.
Nance appeared in just 35 games; whether due to injuries or DNPs, he couldn’t consistently be on the court. Injuries have been a footnote for the past few seasons in Nance’s game logs. This wasn’t what the Cavaliers or Nance probably envisioned when he returned to Cleveland. The hypothetical version was supposed to be a real contributor in the regular season and, if everything went well, possibly the third big in the postseason.
While Nance didn’t make an impact on the floor, his presence within the team and the community always shines. That was probably integral to the team culture as they shuffled a lot of bodies on the roster around the trade deadline.
Nance will probably retire as a Cavalier one day. However, it is sad to think that his last real contract with the Cavaliers ended in such disappointment. Hopefully, with Indiana, Nance’s body can get right, and he can get back to being an impactful big off the bench.
PHOENIX, AZ - JANUARY 9: Khaman Maluach #10 and Mark Williams #15 of the Phoenix Suns high five before the game against the New York Knicks on January 9, 2026 at PHX Arena in Phoenix, Arizona. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Barry Gossage/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
Yesterday was signing day for the Phoenix Suns as they officially welcomed back the key restricted and unrestricted free agents they retained this offseason. Ink was put to paper, and the organization completed an impressive offseason by bringing back Collin Gillespie, Jordan Goodwin, and Mark Williams for a combined $28.3 million in salary next season.
I tip my cap to the organization for executing its plan. The Suns retained players who fit what they are building, reinforced continuity within the locker room, and did so on responsible contracts.
One of the most important signings was Mark Williams, who officially inked a three-year, $38 million fully guaranteed deal to remain in Phoenix. It’s an astute move for a couple of reasons. In the short term, it gives the Suns a starting-caliber center. In the long term, it provides the runway to continue developing Khaman Maluach, the 10th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, on the organization’s preferred timeline.
It’s an interesting season that Khaman Maluach is entering. He’s still only 19 years old (20 when the season begins) and remains a very raw prospect, but he also carries the designation of being a lottery pick. That means something in Phoenix because, with the Suns having traded away so much of their own draft capital, the odds of landing another lottery pick this decade are slim. Yes, the Suns still have first-round picks in future drafts. But those selections are heavily protected or tied up in swap scenarios, leaving Phoenix with little control over where they ultimately land. More than likely, they’ll fall outside the lottery.
Because of that, Maluach, fairly or unfairly, carries a unique set of expectations. He’s viewed as someone who can eventually become the Suns’ starting center. The good news is that, by signing Mark Williams to a three-year contract, the organization has removed any immediate pressure for Maluach to take over that role. There is no expectation that he grabs the reins at this point in his career.
The expectation entering his second season is progression. Raw prospects take time to develop. They need time to grow, time to learn, and time to make mistakes. Development isn’t linear, and that’s part of the equation. At the end of the day, the goal for the 2026-27 season is simple. Show progress.
And that raises a valuable question. How do you create a development pathway for a player who appears buried on the depth chart? After all, Maluach currently sits behind both Mark Williams and Oso Ighodaro. So how is he expected to grow if most of his development takes place in the practice facility? The answer is fairly simple.
The Suns just signed Mark Williams to a three-year contract, and history tells us his minutes should be managed to maximize his availability. Health has consistently been the biggest question surrounding the center entering his fifth NBA season.
At the end of the day, Mark Williams is a solid, mid-tier starting center. And that’s perfectly fine, because that’s what Phoenix is paying him to be. Thankfully, the Suns aren’t paying him like Jakob Poeltl. Toronto extended Poeltl on a three-year, $84.1 million deal. When you put those contracts side by side, it’s clear Phoenix is operating from a much more reasonable financial position.
Part of the beauty of acquiring Mark Williams is understanding that, unfortunately, he will likely spend portions of the season recovering. We saw it last year when he routinely sat out the second night of back-to-backs. We’ll probably see something similar this season, whether it’s planned rest from the coaching staff or time missed due to injury.
That naturally opens the developmental door for Khaman Maluach to receive meaningful NBA minutes. Those opportunities are where growth happens, and that’s where the three-year timeline with Williams becomes so valuable. It gives the organization flexibility.
If Maluach doesn’t show the level of progression the Suns are hoping for this season, they can continue adjusting his development the following year. That doesn’t mean giving up on the prospect. It means continuing to put him in the best position possible to succeed. Having Williams on the roster is the definition of that. He gives Maluach something every young big man needs. Time.
I’ve seen some people suggest that, if Maluach is the center of the future, the Suns should simply start him now. And therefore, question why the team brings back Mark Williams?
Young centers need time to grow, and organizations need to allow that growth to happen without forcing them into situations that could ultimately hurt their confidence. That’s why having Mark Williams as the developmental buffer for Maluach is such an astute move by the organization. He provides starting caliber center minutes when he’s on the floor. And because of his injury history and expected workload management, he’ll naturally create opportunities for Maluach to develop when he’s off it.
It’s a balancing act, and the Suns appear to have found the right one. They’ve built a roster that can compete today without sacrificing tomorrow, giving Maluach the chance to earn his role instead of forcing him into it. That’s a far healthier development model than asking a 20-year-old lottery pick to solve problems before he’s ready. Sometimes the smartest move isn’t accelerating the timeline. It’s giving it room to unfold.
STATELINE, Nev. — Austin Reaves was somewhere near a fairway in the middle of a golf course when he learned he and LeBron James would no longer be Lakers teammates.
The news put a complete damper on his afternoon, he told The California Post on Wednesday.
Austin Reaves dribbles upcourt against the Golden State Warriors. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters ConnectLeBron James reacts after making a three point shot. Getty Images
“I texted him,” Reaves said of his initial reaction to James bolting from Los Angeles, “and told him I was having a great day on the golf course until he ruined it.”
James informed the masses on June 30 that he would don a new uniform in 2026, and Reaves told The Post while out at the American Century Championship in Nevada that the decision affected him.
Reaves, who signed a $185 million extension to remain with the Lakers just a week before James made his choice, has never played an NBA season without the 41-year-old on his team, and he explained it’s going to take some time to get used to.
“I don’t have enough time to explain how much he means to me and my career and what he’s done for me,” Reaves said.
The 28-year-old, though, made it clear he’s harboring no ill-will toward his longtime friend over the move.
“There’s nothing but love and respect,” Reaves said. “And when he comes to LA, I need to see him out on the golf course. Maybe play a couple holes or something.”
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DETROIT, MI - JANUARY 10: John Collins #20 of the LA Clippers drives to the basket during the game against the Detroit Pistons on January 10, 2026 at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan. 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 Chris Schwegler/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
The NBA has captured the Detroit Pistons mega-trade that includes five other teams, 10 players, and a handful of draft picks trading hands on its official website. That is a sign that the deal is complete and, importantly, not getting any bigger.
There has been no official press release sent by any of the teams involved, but let’s be honest, that’s a lot of stuff to type up.
The key players in the deal, from Detroit’s perspective, are all names we’ve heard before. Detroit is sending out Isaiah Stewart (to the Memphis Grizzlies), Caris LeVert (to the Milwaukee Bucks), and Marcus Sasser (to the Dallas Mavericks). Incoming to the Pistons will be John Collins (from the Los Angeles Clippers), and Taurean Prince and Gary Harris (from the Bucks).
The deal is unofficially even bigger than it looks because the draft considerations Detroit received from the Grizzlies for Stewart are the exact picks Detroit sent to Memphis as it moved up the draft board on NBA Draft night to select Ebuka Okorie at No. 17.
Here is how the trade officially breaks down for all involved.
Detroit Pistons Receive:
Gary Harris (Bucks)
Taurean Prince (Bucks)
John Collins (Clippers)
Draft Considerations (Grizzlies)
Dallas Mavericks Receive:
Santi Aldama (Grizzlies)
Marcus Sasser (Pistons)
Memphis Grizzlies Receive:
Isaiah Stewart (Pistons)
D’Angelo Russell (Wizards)
AJ Johnson (Mavericks)
Draft Considerations (Wizards)
Milwaukee Bucks Receive:
Caris LeVert (Pistons)
Draft Considerations (Pistons)
Washington Wizards Receive:
Khris Middleton (Mavericks)
Draft Considerations (Mavericks)
Los Angeles Clippers Receive:
Draft Considerations (Pistons)
Because several players were traded for draft picks, there are also some sizeable trade-player exceptions involved that will expire in a year, will likely go unused, but are always helpful to have at your disposal in case the right kind of deal presents itself.
Several of the teams are also hard-capped because of players obtained in sign-and-trade deals, including the Pistons.
Here is a not-so-helpful visual representation of the deal, included just because it’s kind of funny. When the deal is represented on the basketball-reference transaction log, it will also look like an Infinite Jest-sized chunk of text.
Who is the most important player in this deal? John Collins? Isaiah Stewart? Santi Aldama? Who knows. But it’s done.
And the summer league slate features several head-to-head matchups between big-name rookies, including Dybantsa taking on Peterson in a showdown of the top two picks.
So, from the format to the schedule and how to watch the games, here’s what to know about Las Vegas Summer League:
How does the NBA Las Vegas Summer League work?
The Las Vegas Summer League features all 30 teams playing at least five games. The top four teams in the standings through four games qualify for a semifinal round, while the other 26 teams play in a final consolation game.
The semifinal winners then meet a championship game to close out the tournament.
Where are NBA Las Vegas Summer League games played?
Games are played across two venues on the University of Las Vegas, Nevada, (UNLV) campus: the Pavilion and the Thomas & Mack Center.
FILE — Exterior view of Thomas & Mack Center during the 2019 NBA Las Vegas Summer League. (Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports)
What are the NBA Las Vegas Summer League rules?
Here are some of the main rules to know:
Games feature four 10-minute quarters, with an eight-minute halftime.
Teams are given two timeouts per half. They also have one challenge to trigger a replay review of fouls, out-of-bounds violations or goaltending calls.
A player fouls out after committing his 10th foul, unless it’s a semifinal or championship game. For those playoff contests, a player fouls out after his sixth foul.
In the event of a tie game after four quarters, a two-minute overtime is played. If the score is still tied after OT, the game heads to a sudden death period where the first team to score wins.
The NBA is using a “one free throw rule” in summer league games this year. Under the rule, most foul shots result in just one free throw. For example, if a player is fouled on a missed 2-point shot, he shoots one free throw worth two points. If a player is fouled on a missed 3-point shot, he shoots one free throw worth three points. The rule, which has been used in the G League for several years, is applied to all foul shots occurring before the final two minutes of the fourth quarter.
And the summer league slate features several head-to-head matchups between big-name rookies, including Dybantsa taking on Peterson in a showdown of the top two picks.
So, from the format to the schedule and how to watch the games, here’s what to know about Las Vegas Summer League:
How does the NBA Las Vegas Summer League work?
The Las Vegas Summer League features all 30 teams playing at least five games. The top four teams in the standings through four games qualify for a semifinal round, while the other 26 teams play in a final consolation game.
The semifinal winners then meet a championship game to close out the tournament.
Where are NBA Las Vegas Summer League games played?
Games are played across two venues on the University of Las Vegas, Nevada, (UNLV) campus: the Pavilion and the Thomas & Mack Center.
FILE — Exterior view of Thomas & Mack Center during the 2019 NBA Las Vegas Summer League. (Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports)
What are the NBA Las Vegas Summer League rules?
Here are some of the main rules to know:
Games feature four 10-minute quarters, with an eight-minute halftime.
Teams are given two timeouts per half. They also have one challenge to trigger a replay review of fouls, out-of-bounds violations or goaltending calls.
A player fouls out after committing his 10th foul, unless it’s a semifinal or championship game. For those playoff contests, a player fouls out after his sixth foul.
In the event of a tie game after four quarters, a two-minute overtime is played. If the score is still tied after OT, the game heads to a sudden death period where the first team to score wins.
The NBA is using a “one free throw rule” in summer league games this year. Under the rule, most foul shots result in just one free throw. For example, if a player is fouled on a missed 2-point shot, he shoots one free throw worth two points. If a player is fouled on a missed 3-point shot, he shoots one free throw worth three points. The rule, which has been used in the G League for several years, is applied to all foul shots occurring before the final two minutes of the fourth quarter.
