LAS VEGAS, NV - JULY 12: Dillon Mitchell #20 of the Boston Celtics drives to the basket during the game against the Charlotte Hornets on July 12, 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 Mike Kirschbaum/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
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With anything that happens in Las Vegas, we’re all quick to temper our enthusiasm.
“It’s just Summer League.”
“It’s a small sample size.”
“Let’s remember that the guy was a second-round pick.”
“Just one more trip to the ATM and I’ll stop playing blackjack for the night.”
In just three games, what were relative unknowns have gone from peaked curiosity to uncontrollable excitement. With Hugo Gonzalez and Amari Williams, the sophomore duo has solidified their standing in their development timeline.
Gonzalez hasn’t had the best shooting performance in Sin City (6-of-26 from the field, 4-of-18 from 3), but he’s gone to the line a dozen times and filled the stat sheet, nearing a triple-double against the Raptors.
Williams has been an effective rim protector (6 blocks), a ferocious rebounder (6 offensive boards), and an effective playmaker above the break.
LAS VEGAS, NV – JULY 10: Chris Cenac Jr. #12 of the Boston Celtics celebrates scoring the game tying shoots a three point basket during the game against the Toronto Raptors on July 10, 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
However, the biggest revelations might be in this year’s draft picks, Chris Cenac Jr. and Dillon Mitchell. In Monday’s game without Gonzalez and Williams, the rookies showed off some early chemistry. Here’s CelticsBlog Adam Taylor on their evolving synergy:
there was a play late in the third quarter where Cenac had blocked the shot, recovered his block and found Mitchell sprinting up the floor. When it comes to a foot face, at least at Summer League level, I’d be happy to bet on Mitchell winning those most of the time. So, no surprise that he outruns Atlanta’s defense to get the finish.
If you’re going to be watching the Maine Celtics a lot next season, I would assume the connection between these two will be something you come to look forward to. After all, Cenac might be signed to the primary roster, but he projects to spend a decent chunk of his time in the G League, while Mitchell will most likely land a two-way deal following his play over the last three games.
Expect a leap from Gonzalez next season. He was reportedly one of the sticky points in the Giannis Antetokounmpo trade and has looked solid after a stint with Spain in the FIBA qualifiers. For Williams, Cenac Jr., and Mitchell, their road to playing time appears to be longer runway, but paved with potential.
LAS VEGAS, NV - JULY 14: Labaron Philon #00 of the Philadelphia 76ers handles the ball during the game against the Houston Rockets 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
The only player you care about looking good while the rest of the team gets smoked is the quintessential Summer League experience.
The Summer Sixers were demolished 87-64 by the Houston Rockets. They are now 2-1 with their penultimate game coming Wednesday at 4 p.m against Orlando. Their final game has yet to be announced.
Labaron Philon Jr. was the only Sixer who could find the hoop for much of the night. He went for a team-high 17 points shooting 7-of-11 from the floor along with four assists and two steals. Johni Broome finished with just two points and three rebounds on 1-of-5 shooting.
Amani Lyles was the only Sixer to reach double-digits. He shot 4-of-7 from the floor to finish with 13 points and three rebounds. Isaiah Crawford, who spent last season with Houston on a two-way, led all scorers with 19.
There was a lid on the rim for both teams as they combined to start the game 1-of-12 from the field. Philon snaking in nicely for a midrange at the 6:20 mark was the Sixers’ first points of the game. Finding the hoop remained a struggle for them while Houston was able to get in a rhythm. At the end of the first quarter the Sixers had scored eight points, seven of them by Philon.
The 2026 first-round pick was the only Sixer playing well, and he was doing so despite the Rockets’ defense loading up to stop him. They threw aggressive double teams at him nearly every trip down the court. He passed out of them very well, showing an impressive feel for passing, his teammates just weren’t able to convert. Philon was at least able to throw one flashy assist, saving a broken play with a touch bounce pass down to Amani Lyles for an and-1.
Well, after Q1…. Labaron Philon: 7 PTS, 3/3 FG, 1/1 3PT The rest of the Sixers: 1 PT, 0/15 FG, 0/6 3PT pic.twitter.com/Y78uGG4U2M
Broome did not have the same success. He missed both his first three field goal attempts of the game, and his first three free throw attempts, finally getting on the board three minutes into the second half. The Rockets were able to take away his post-ups fairly easily, getting the ball out of his hands in various ways.
Shooting 31% from the field, every field goal the Sixers were able to make felt noteworthy. They showed some life coming up with two consecutive steals after a Duke Miles three. Lyles picked up a lot of his production in this stretch doing the dirty work, but the 10-0 run they went on was the best they could do.
Isaac Johnson took a couple of charges, but has yet to replicate his shooting performance from his summer debut. His lone assist of the night was a nice high-low pass down to the block. Miles made a nice behind-the-back move to beat a defender, but was unable to finish the bucket. He ended up with five points shooting 2-of-9 on the night. He made some hustle plays to keep possessions alive, but his funky shot form makes it hard to believe in him in any serious setting.
Austin Reaves and Luka Doncic are no longer simply two talented guards sharing the Lakers’ backcourt. They have become the center of the franchise’s next chapter and close personal friends, as well.
With LeBron James moving on, Los Angeles has committed its future to Doncic and Reaves, who signed a four-year extension worth roughly $185 million earlier this summer. The deal confirmed what had become increasingly clear last season: Reaves is no longer an unexpected success story. He is one of the Lakers’ foundational players.
Austin Reaves says Luka Doncic is one of his best friends and constantly sends golf swing videos as the Lakers enter a new era without LeBron James. Getty Images
And his relationship with Doncic should only help the the next era coalesce.
“He’s one of my best friends on this planet,” Reaves said. “I talk to him almost every single day.”
Reaves’s friendship with Doncic played a role in his return to the Lakers this offseason. Getty ImagesAustin Reaves plays a golf shot from the 15th tee box. Getty Images“I talk to him almost every single day. He sends me videos of his golf swing & asks what he can do to get better, and I tell him I’m not a coach,” Reaves said. Instagram/@sportskeeda_basketball
Their conversations are not limited to basketball. Doncic regularly asks for golf advice, leaning on one of the NBA’s more accomplished golfers for help.
“I talk to him almost every single day. He sends me videos of his golf swing & asks what he can do to get better, and I tell him I’m not a coach.”
This glimpse into a friendship that has developed quickly since Doncic arrived from Dallas less than a year and a half ago. It also reflects the comfort the Lakers will need to translate onto the court as the pair assumes greater responsibility without James.
Reaves said on a recent episode of the Dan Patrick show that he, Doncic, coach JJ Redick and president of basketball operations Rob Pelinka have remained in close contact while the organization reshapes the roster. He believes they share a similar competitive outlook and are trying to build something capable of lasting beyond a single season.
Reaves and Doncic are expected to lead the Lakers next season and contend for the NBA’s highest-scoring duo. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
That vision begins with how naturally the two guards complement each other, on and off the court. Doncic controls games through strength, patience and elite playmaking, while Reaves can score with or without the ball, attack closeouts and create as a secondary facilitator.
Reaves has said Doncic’s ability to manipulate pace and generate advantages is almost impossible to copy.
“You can study it, but I don’t know if you can really do it the way that he does it,” Reaves said.
The early results were promising. Los Angeles went 30-11 last season when both players were available, although injuries prevented the partnership from getting a full postseason test.
Now the safety net is gone.
Doncic and Reaves are close friends, golf correspondents and the two players expected to determine whether the Lakers’ post-LeBron era becomes a quick reset or the beginning of another sustained run.
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The league's all-time leading scorer has been pondering his options since announcing plans to leave the Los Angeles Lakers when NBA free agency opened last month.
James possesses leverage in terms of his timing because his agent, Rich Paul, indicated money won't drive their decision. But the latest reports suggest he is at least narrowing his options and might be on the verge of figuring out where he will play in his record 24th NBA season.
Golden State stars Stephen Curry and Draymond Green have reportedly been able to contact James during this free agency process, unlike the owners and general managers in pursuit of him. James is scheduled to record a live episode of his "Mind the Game" podcast with Tyrese Haliburton and other special guests as part of two appearances at Fanatics Fest in New York on Thursday, July 16.
Here's a breakdown of the latest potential NBA free agency landing spots for LeBron James based on current reports:
The Cavaliers have emerged as the favorites to land James, allowing him to compete for an NBA championship with Donovan Mitchell, James Harden and Evan Mobley and author a storybook ending with a third stint near his hometown of Akron, Ohio to close out a historic career.
The prospect of teaming James with Giannis Antetokounmpo is so fascinating to consider that the lack of supporting cast around them (because of the Heat's salary cap situation this season) seems worth the risk.
The Sixers became a serious option for James when they traded for Jaylen Brown. James shares the same agent with Tyrese Maxey and won a gold medal with Joel Embiid at the 2024 Paris Olympics. He also can make more history in Philadelphia. No NBA player has ever won a title with four different teams.
The Warriors were the focus of initial speculation surrounding James' next team, particularly once Green elected to opt out of his contract to give Golden State more flexibility to pursue James. Playing with Curry and Green would give James a compelling closing chapter with two of his former rivals, though it remains to be seen if that's enough for the Warriors to compete with the Spurs and Thunder in the West.
James would be a great fit on the court and in the locker room with the Timberwolves, who could use a versatile power forward to replace Julius Randle and Naz Reid in their lineup and a mature voice to help ensure Minnesota's bet on teaming LaMelo Ball with Anthony Edwards pays off. But the idea of James spending his final NBA season(s) in Minnesota is seen as the least likely of these possible destinations.
LAS VEGAS, NV - JULY 10: Egor Demin #8 of the Brooklyn Nets looks on during the game against the New York Knicks during the 2026 NBA Las Vegas Summer League on July 10, 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 Candice Ward/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
The Nets got a bit of a reality check on Saturday night, losing 83-76 to the Atlanta Hawks on a night where the main attractions — Mikel Brown Jr. and Egor Dëmin — rested on the second night of a back-to-back. Fortunately, the young cornerstones are expected to return tonight against Darius Acuff Jr. and the Sacramento Kings.
Enjoy!
📺 Watch
Who: Brooklyn Nets vs. Sacramento Kings
When: 6:00 PM ET
Where: Thomas & Mack Center, Las Vegas
TV/Stream: YES Network, Prime Video
🏀 Game Preview
Of course, Stephen A. Smith screamed “BOX OFFICE!” at cameras the day after Brooklyn selected Mikel Brown Jr., and proceeded to mention how they should be the next team to be part of expansion. Darius Acuff Jr. could have a great career and we’d be thrilled! But the focus in Brooklyn is all on Brown Jr., no matter how much hype has been around this matchup.
It doesn’t need to be anything more or less than that. Keep an eye on how these two young floor generals attempt to set the tone early.
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.
Washington Wizards rookie and No. 1 overall pick AJ Dybantsa is done for the remainder of NBA Summer League. The BYU product was shut down by his team on Tuesday, July 14. According to The Athletic, Wizards Summer League coach T.J. Sorrentine informed Dybantsa that he will not play in the team's final two games.
This is a normal situation for highly-touted prospects. Many first-round picks are shut down after two Summer League games as a precaution to ensure no injuries are sustained before their rookie season.
Dybantsa has drawn a good amount of hype heading into the 2026-27 season, with even veteran teammates like Trae Young attending the team's Summer League games in Las Vegas for an early glimpse at the up-and-comer. And Dybantsa didn't disappoint.
In just two games, Dybantsa averaged 25.0 points, 7.0 rebounds and 2.0 assists per game, helping lead the Wizards to wins over both the Utah Jazz and Sacramento Kings.
Is Dybantsa the only player being shut down by Washington?
No. The Wizards are also shutting down Summer League standouts Will Riley and Tre Johnson. Riley averaged 25 points in his two Summer League appearances, while Johnson scored 26 in his only appearance.
How many more Summer League games do the Wizards have?
The Wizards have two games remaining in Las Vegas, with matchups against the Chicago Bulls and Los Angeles Clippers scheduled for Tuesday, July 14 and Wednesday, July 15, respectively.
PHILADELPHIA, PA - APRIL 24: The sneakers worn by Tyrese Maxey #0 of the Philadelphia 76ers during the game against the Boston Celtics during Round One Game Three of the 2026 NBA Playoffs on April 24, 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 David Dow/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
LAS VEGAS – The start to Las Vegas NBA Summer League was a reunion of sorts for Warriors rookie Yaxel Lendeborg.
Taken with the No. 11 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, Lendeborg earned bragging rights with two straight wins over his former Michigan teammates Morez Johnson Jr. (No. 9 pick) and Aday Mara (No. 12 pick), beating the Dallas Mavericks and Oklahoma City Thunder. His third game in Las Vegas was a chance for revenge.
Lendeborg squared off with No. 3 pick Cameron Boozer once last season when Michigan played Duke in a highly contested battle. Both college stars put on a show at the Edward Jones Capital Classic in Washington, D.C., on Feb. 21.
While Lendeborg outscored Boozer 21 to 18 in that game, Michigan fell 68-63 for only its second loss of the season. Lendeborg also had seven rebounds, three assists, one steal and two blocked shots. Boozer added 10 rebounds, seven assists and also blocked two shots.
Just about five months later, Boozer’s team again got the best of Lendeborg’s in the Warriors’ 106-85 loss to the Memphis Grizzlies on Tuesday at Cox Pavilion on UNLV’s campus. And Lendeborg again outscored Boozer.
Lendeborg scored a team-high 15 points on 6-of-12 shooting to go with a game-high nine rebounds, three assists and two steals. He was a minus-28 in barely under 29 minutes. Boozer was a game-high plus-35 in 26 minutes with 12 points on 4-of-12 shooting, seven rebounds, three assists and three steals. They each were more aggressive in the second half after slow starts.
“I liked this one a lot better than that Michigan vs. Duke one,” Lendeborg said after the loss. “I had a lot more chances to guard him in this one, and same with him guarding me. It was a lot more fun getting to go up against a talent like that. Sucks that we lost the matchup, but we’ll see him again in the regular season.”
Coach Khalid Robinson certainly took note of the heavyweight bout, too.
“It was two very talented players, two very physical guys,” Robinson said. “It was a fun matchup to watch and obviously something that’s going to go on for a long time in this league.”
Watching Lendeborg and Boozer go against one another felt like a rivalry happening in real time. There wasn’t trash talk, but a look in their eyes of each proving who the better player is. They matched up against one another as much as possible and neither ducked any smoke.
The highlight of the first half was Lendeborg going right at Boozer in transition. Lendeborg put his left shoulder into Boozer’s right, knocking him back to create separation. He gathered his dribble and finished the play with Boozer watching the ball go through the net from out of bounds.
He had a similar finish on Boozer in the second half, too. When the Warriors’ regular-season schedule is announced, Lendeborg admittedly will have his eyes on games against Boozer and the Grizzlies.
“Yeah, absolutely. I’m always gonna circle that matchup,” Lendeborg said. “… I’m excited to see him again, and hopefully we can get on the winning side.”
Between the California Classic and Las Vegas, Lendeborg’s 3-point shot has stood out as much as anything. In a game where he missed both of his 3-point attempts on Tuesday, Lendeborg’s physicality is what stood out most.
Lendeborg consistently looked to get to the rack. He just didn’t always convert – at least not on his first try.
There were multiple instances where he followed his own miss and converted a putback. Those kinds of energy plays are what the Warriors are looking for out of Lendeborg, knowing he has the natural strength to make an impact in handful of ways.
“That’s what we’ve asked of him,” Robinson said. “He’s brought it, but you have to bring it consistently and that’s just the challenge of being a pro. He’s a really physical player, and for our team, we have to have that level of physicality to start every game and consistently throughout.”
A familiar-but-new face to Lendeborg was on the sidelines of Cox Pavilion. Warriors coach Steve Kerr was in attendance for his first summer league game this year. Kerr sat next to general manager Mike Dunleavy, as well as newly hired associate head coach Frank Vogel. Though Vogel hasn’t officially signed his contract with the Warriors, he was all smiles getting to know Golden State’s coaching staff.
Seeing Kerr on the sidelines was a surprise to Lendeborg. When reminded of Kerr being there after the game, Lendeborg shook his head and said how frustrated he was that Kerr’s first look at him was a loss. He’d even change some of the words he knows Kerr heard him say right in front of him.
“There was one play I was very frustrated and I yelled a couple curse words,” Lendeborg said. “I realized, ‘Oh my God I got to relax, he’s right there.’ He kind of heard the bad side of it, but I tried to keep my composure as much as I could.”
The Warriors’ loss dropped them to 2-1 in Las Vegas and 4-2 overall this summer. Tuesday also was the first game Lendeborg has lost in a Warriors jersey. Their next game is Thursday against the New York Knicks at 4 p.m. PT.
Apr 12, 2026; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Boston Celtics guard John Tonje (8) shoots during the second half against the Orlando Magic at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Paul Rutherford-Imagn Images | Paul Rutherford-Imagn Images
The NBA Summer League kicked off last Thursday, and several former Wisconsin Badgers have looked to make their names known as they battle to make their respective team’s rosters.
Last year, the Badgers had their first draft pick since 2022 when John Tonje was taken by the Utah Jazz in the second round. Tonje enjoyed a quality rookie season in the G League, averaging 18.1 points and 4.6 rebounds a game while splitting time with the Salt Lake City Stars (Utah’s G League affiliate) and the Maine Celtics (Boston Celtics G League affiliate) after being traded midseason.
Tonje is now playing for the Celtics Summer League team, and he’s been off to a fantastic start.
In Boston’s first game, Tonje had 20 points, hitting five threes, while having a clutch steal and dunk that helped seal a three-point overtime victory over the Toronto Raptors. In their next game against the Charlotte Hornets, Tonje had an efficient 17 points on 8 of 10 from the field, while hauling down five rebounds.
He did struggle a bit in Boston’s third game, scoring five points on 2 of 8 from the field in a loss to the Atlanta Hawks.
Nick Boyd is also participating in this year’s Summer League after going undrafted last month in the 2026 NBA Draft. He signed a deal with the Golden State Warriors after the draft and is looking to compete for a roster spot or a G League spot there.
Playing on the Warriors Blue team during the California Classic, Boyd had a couple of solid games to kick off Summer League. He struggled in his first contest, scoring 11 points on 2 of 10 shooting in a loss to the Milwaukee Bucks. But Boyd followed that up with a double-double, dropping 11 points and 10 assists in a loss to the Sacramento Kings, while shooting 4 of 7 from the field.
In the final game of the California Classic, Boyd had 13 points and five assists, while shooting 5 of 13 from the field. He was the starting point guard for all three games on the Warriors’ second G League team.
Boyd has now played in one of the two games since the official G League start in Las Vegas. He did not suit up for Golden State’s first game, but had 14 points, two assists, and two rebounds in 18 minutes off the bench in the team’s most recent game, while shooting 5 of 6 from the field.
The other former Badger playing is center Steven Crowl, who signed a deal to play for the Detroit Pistons ahead of Summer League.
After being a DNP in Detroit’s first game, Crowl has seen some minutes off the bench for the Pistons in their last two contests. In their second game, an 11-point win over the Cleveland Cavaliers, Crowl had two assists, a block, and an offensive rebound in eight minutes of action, while being a +5 in the box score.
He saw a bigger role in their third game, playing 19 minutes, while scoring five points, grabbing six rebounds, and dishing out two more assists. He was a +6 in his minutes.
Summer League continues on Tuesday and will go on for the next few days, as each of the three players will look to make the most of their minutes. But, there have been some positives from Tonje, Boyd, and Crowl in their early action so far.
Jun 23, 2026; New York, NY, USA; The twenty second pick in the 2026 NBA draft, Alabama guard Labaron Philon Jr. after he was selected by the Philadelphia 76ers at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images | Brad Penner-Imagn Images
Game Details
When: Tuesday, July 14, 4:00 p.m. ET Where: Thomas & Mack Center, Las Vegas, NV Watch: NBC Sports Philadelphia Plus, Prime Video Follow:@LibertyBallers
Thunder coach Mark Daigneault, Pistons coach J.B. Bickerstaff and Gonzaga coach Mark Few will join the staff of USA Basketball head coach Erik Spoelstra (Miami Heat), reports Shams Charania of ESPN. USA Basketball is expected to make that official in the coming days.
This is a potential stepping stone for Daigneault and Bickerstaff. Spoelstra was named the head coach for this cycle of USA Basketball — which includes the 2027 FIBA World Championships — after serving as an assistant on Steve Kerr's staff in the Paris Olympics, where the USA men won gold for the fifth consecutive Games.
This staff will face the stiffest challenge the USA has seen to its basketball supremacy — the rest of the world has been catching up fast for years. It took a golden final few minutes from Stephen Curry — with Kevin Durant and LeBron James flanking him — to win gold two years ago.
That win was against a French team led by Victor Wembanyama, who has grown into arguably — and in two years it will not be up for debate — the best player on the planet. The French, Serbia (led by Nikola Jokic), and a deep German team are medal threats as well. A deep Canada team cannot be discounted as well.
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - JULY 09: AJ Dybantsa #4 of the Washington Wizards walks on the court during a break in the first half of a 2026 NBA Summer League game against the Utah Jazz at the Thomas & Mack Center on July 09, 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 Ethan Miller/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Dybantsa flashed his relentless rim pressure, elite athleticism and finishing ability through two contests. He scored 27 points — which tied Blake Griffin for the most by a No. 1 pick in their Las Vegas Summer League debut —in a 92-88 win over the Utah Jazz before tallying 23 points in Washington’s 104-85 victory over the Sacramento Kings.
The Wizards’ No. 1 pick averaged 25.0 points, 7.0 rebounds and 2.0 assists across those two contests. He used his 6-foot-9 frame to tally 2.5 steals and 1.5 blocks per game as he flashed an impressive defensive motor.
One of the few blemishes on an otherwise impressive showing was Dybantsa’s shooting efficiency. The BYU product shot just 39.4% (13-33) from the field and 9.1% (1-11) from 3-point range.
In what served as his lone appearance, Johnson tallied 26 points on 11-20 FG. He scored from all three levels, knifing into the paint for contested layups, pulling up for mid-range jumpers and knocking down a pair of 3-pointers.
Riley shook off a shaky opener to dominate the Kings on Sunday. The second-year wing scored a game-high 32 points while making six of his eight 3-point attempts. He shot 70% from 3-point range on 10 attempts across two Summer League contests.
The Wizards return at 8 p.m. ET on Tuesday against Caleb Wilson and the Chicago Bulls before facing Keaton Wagler’s Los Angeles Clippers at 10:30 p.m. Wednesday.
LOS ANGELES, CA - APRIL 22: Austin Reaves #15 and Head Coach JJ Redick of the Los Angeles Lakers look on during the game against the Minnesota Timberwolves during Round One Game Two of the 2025 NBA Playoffs on April 22, 2025 at Crypto.Com Arena 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. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE(Photo by Juan Ocampo/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
The Lakers are a franchise that always empowers its stars.
During a recent interview on the “Dan Patrick Show,” Reaves explained that he was in constant communication with Luka, Lakers President of Basketball Operations Rob Pelinka and head coach JJ Redick during this offseason.
“I had a lot of talks with Rob. I’m really close with Luka and JJ as well. We’re just building something that can be sustainable for not just now but the future. I seen something the other day that I’m the oldest guy on the team and I’m 28. That’s actually crazy to me. We want to have success now and five, six, seven years in the future.”
The Lakers have committed a ton of money to Luka and Reaves. This is the new star duo in LA, so they will be in the know and have a lot of say. That’s not a bad thing. The Lakers are heavily invested in them, and it’s best to make sure most of the big decisions and the main plan are ones they are on board with and like.
Pelinka is still running things, so decisions fall on him, but it’s good to keep Luka and Reaves in the know.
This summer has been transformational for the Lakers. As Reaves said, they’ve gotten much younger. And now they are built around Luka and Reaves.
At least for now, it seems everyone is on board with the plan. Now we just need to wait for the fall to see how it looks in action.
We’re still in the heart of the offseason, though, so it’ll be a while before we see the new-look Lakers in action. For now, it’s summer, and with Reaves getting a huge payday, he should celebrate his success and the raise.
So far, as he discussed on “The Dan Patrick Show”, he hasn’t really done that.
“I haven’t bought myself anything. Actually, my financial advisor told me the other day that I needed to spend more money. So, I struggle with that. I mean, I’m more, I like getting gifts for other people so I’ve done a little bit of that.”
It sounds like being Reaves’ friend is a good thing to be right now. Hopefully, Reaves can treat himself and enjoy his new deal. Perhaps he can buy himself a great set of golf clubs or take a vacation to a place he’s always wanted to go. He’s certainly earned it, and once the NBA season starts, it’s back to work, and the time for extended fun will be over.
And when the Lakers play again, Reaves will be the No.2 in every way possible. His usage reflects that, as does his pay and insights into the franchise’s decisions.
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - JULY 10: Mikel Brown Jr. #0 of the Brooklyn Nets slaps hands with head coach Dutch Gaitley as Brown walks to the bench in the first half of a 2026 NBA Summer League game against the New York Knicks at the Thomas & Mack Center on July 10, 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 Ethan Miller/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The Brooklyn Nets got a bit of a reality check on Saturday night. After cruising past the Knicks on Friday, the Nets dropped lost 83-76 to the Atlanta Hawks on a night where the main attractions — Mikel Brown Jr. and Egor Dëmin — rested on the second night of a back-to-back.
But tonight, the young cornerstones are expected to return.
Brooklyn shifts its focus to an evening showdown against the Sacramento Kings (1-1) at the Thomas & Mack Center. Tuesday brings forth another summer subplot we missed in Sacramento: a clash between the No. 6 and No. 7 picks in the 2026 NBA Draft.
📺 Watch: YES!
Who: Brooklyn Nets vs. Sacramento Kings
When: 6:00 PM ET
Where: Thomas & Mack Center, Las Vegas
TV/Stream: YES Network, Prime Video
🏀 The Game
With Mikel Brown Jr. and Egor Dëmin watching from the bench on Saturday, Summer League coach Dutch Gaitley handed the keys over to Ben Saraf and Drake Powell. The backcourt had its growing pains — Saraf dropped 15 points but shot only 4-of-14 from the floor in 32 minutes. Powell shot 0-for-4 in 24 minutes played.
“I’ve been working with my coaches on my shot,” said Powell. “They’re not going in right now. But I’m going to continue to put them up and have full confidence that they’ll go in… Some nights are obviously hard when I’m by myself in the hotel room. But just been [having] constant conversations with my circle and continuing to trust them and my coaches.”
Back to Brown Jr. and Dëmin.
Of course, Stephen A. Smith screamed “BOX OFFICE!” at cameras the day after Brooklyn selected Mikel Brown Jr., and proceeded to mention how they should be the next team to be part of expansion. Darius Acuff Jr. could have a great career and we’d be thrilled! But the focus in Brooklyn is on Brown Jr. — and only Brown Jr. No matter how much hype has been around this matchup.
It doesn’t need to be anything more or less than that. Keep an eye on how these two young floor generals attempt to set the tone early.
📈 Big Impressions
Although it’s lottery guards who have generated the headlines, Saturday’s loss to Atlanta spotlighted two guys in the frontcourt who came to play.
Chaney Johnson: The two-way forward was everywhere once again, racking up 20 points, 10 rebounds, and a whopping 5 steals. He’s currently averaging 15 points and nine rebounds in Las Vegas Summer League, pushing the issue with high-energy on both ends of the floor.
Danny Wolf: The second-year big led the scoring effort alongside Johnson, putting up 20 points of his own on an efficient 9-of-16 shooting.
Meanwhile, forward Joshua Jefferson made his highly anticipated Summer League debut on Saturday. The aggression was there, but so was the rust. He shot 1-of-8 from the field to go along with two turnovers in nine minutes.
🕒 Load Management
If you’re wondering why you didn’t see Brown Jr. or Dëmin in the box score on Saturday, it simply isn’t worth overthinking. It’s Summer League, and for the Nets, the priority is balancing development with keeping the franchise cornerstones in one piece. That’s not mentioning they’re playing extra basketball — only seven franchises (eight total teams) play in the California Classic before heading over the Vegas.
“That’s the goal,” Nets summer league coach Dutch Gaitley said.“The goal is a nice off-day … get some work in on Monday, and then we’re ready to play the Kings and, hopefully, avenge our first loss of summer league.”
It’s the right move. Long-term evaluation is the name of the game here. Minutes need to be earned by others, and Saturday gave the staff another look at what Saraf and Powell can (or can’t) do when they’re forced to take the reins.
Make no mistake, the main act returns tonight. But this is all exhibition, the Nets are not going to do anything that might jeopardize their future, particularly in back-to-backs
Welcome to NY, Keon!
Did you think you’d wake up today and think about New York real estate? If your answer is no then you’re probably having a less stressful day than Keon Ellis. Like most who move to New York, Ellis discussed what it’s like looking for a place.
Asked Keon Ellis how he's feeling about living in NYC:
“Oh, my god! Trying to find a house, it’s tough. I have to sacrifice something, some space, the prices, it’s a lot. But I’m definitely excited to walk around the city and hit different spots and all the restaurants. I hear… pic.twitter.com/Florv2bOQh
LeBron James’ NBA free agency decision still is not here — but the picture around it just got a lot more specific, and the news is not entirely good for the Warriors.
ESPN’s Shams Charania provided an update on “NBA Today” Tuesday, revisiting a report he first delivered weeks ago that identified the Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat and Warriors as the three leaders in James’ decision to leave the Los Angeles Lakers after eight seasons. Those three teams still are in it. But the landscape around them has shifted — and Golden State’s position within it has changed.
“Those three teams are still in it,” Charania said. “The Sixers have since acquired Jaylen Brown. Minnesota already got LaMelo Ball. They are also two of the teams that are involved.”
Philadelphia landed Brown in a blockbuster trade with Boston on July 2, sending Paul George and four draft picks back to the Celtics. Minnesota, meanwhile, added Ball around the same time of the offseason. Both moves inserted their franchises into James’ decision.
That widened the field to five teams. But Charania drew a clear distinction between which five are still involved and which three still are the real focus.
“My understanding is, right now as we speak, LeBron James has the information that’s needed to make a decision,” Charania said. “The feel is that those five teams remain in the mix, but a focus on Cleveland, Miami and Philadelphia.”
@ShamsCharania latest update on LeBron James' free agency 👑
Golden State and Minnesota, in other words, are technically alive — but no longer appear to be where James’ attention is concentrated. That is a meaningful shift for a Warriors fan base that has spent weeks watching Draymond Green opt out of his contract and reportedly spend time with James personally, all in pursuit of pairing him with Steph Curry for one final championship run.
There is also a layer of irony in the current focus group. Two of the three teams James is reportedly zeroed in on — Cleveland and Miami — are franchises where he has already won championships and spent significant portions of his career. Whatever “new team environment and culture” James is searching for, according to Charania, it may end up looking a lot like somewhere he has already been.
Charania was also clear about what is not driving the decision.
“This is not a money-driven decision,” he said. “So you have teams that are offering him minimum deals, exceptions, some salary cap space as well. He’s able to take his time and sift through this.”
Team presidents and general managers still are in contact with James’ agent, Rich Paul, this week, and James has reportedly listened to voice notes from multiple team owners delivered through Paul. Charania said a decision “could be really any day, any week now.”
During the Warriors’ NBA Summer League game against the Memphis Grizzlies on Tuesday in Las Vegas, Golden State GM Mike Dunleavy said the team’s roster is close to being finalized.
“We’re getting close to finalizing the roster here.”
For the Warriors, that means their recruiting pitch still has a pulse — but as of this week, it is no longer one of the three pitches getting the most attention.
