Sixers free agency tracker: Sixers reportedly trade for Jaylen Brown; sign Anfernee Simons

CAMDEN, NJ - JUNE 8: Mike Gansey speaks as the Philadelphia 76ers introduce him as their new President of Basketball Operations on June 8, 2026 at The Penn Medicine Philadelphia 76ers Training Complex in Camden, New Jersey. 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 Mary Kate Ridgway/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

At 6 p.m. ET on June 30, free agency in the NBA will officially begin.

For the Philadelphia 76ers, there are a number of moving parts in the mix already. The Sixers picked up Alabama guard Labaron Philon Jr. last week with the No. 22 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft. Earlier this week, we learned that the team is picking up their options for Dominick Barlow and Dalen Terry, but not for Trendon Watford. Now, Kelly Oubre Jr., Quentin Grimes and Andre Drummond are all set to become unrestricted free agents as of 6 p.m. Tuesday.

And that’s not even mentioning the complications in the Sixers’ salary cap situation or the fact that they have a number of future second-round picks they could potentially use in trades.

So, there are a lot of questions. Let’s see if we get some answers in Mike Gansey’s first free agency as Sixers president of basketball operations.

Stay tuned here as we track all the signings, trades, rumors and exits for the Philadelphia 76ers as free agency gets underway!


Signings/trades

Jaylen Brown (Boston Celtics) for Paul George, two firsts, two seconds

HOLY. MOLY. Genuine shock here.

The Sixers reportedly have traded Paul George, two first rounders and two seconds for Jaylen Brown.

There will be nothing by time to digest and unpack this, but WOW. Seismic move from Mike Gansey in his first month of being president of basketball operations.

Anfernee Simons, free agent guard (prev. Chicago Bulls)

The Sixers reportedly are in agreement with free agent guard Anfernee Simons on a two-year, $12.3 million deal (second year player option).

Simons should be able to provide a scoring boost off the bench as a depth shooting guard.

Dean Wade, free agent forward (prev. Cleveland Cavaliers)

The Sixers have reportedly reached an agreement with free agent forward Dean Wade on a four-year, $39 million deal, per ESPN’s Shams Charania. It is Mike Gansey’s first signing as Sixers president of basketball operations.

Ariel Hukporti, free agent center (prev. New York Knicks)

The Sixers have reportedly agreed to terms on a one-year, $3.4 million deal with former Knicks reserve center Ariel Hukporti, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania.

Rayan Rupert, free agent guard (prev. Memphis Grizzlies)

The Sixers reportedly have reached a two-way contract agreement with French guard Rayan Rupert.

Caleb Love, free agent guard (prev. Portland Trail Blazers)

The Sixers have reportedly filled their second of three two-way contract slots, reaching an agreement with free agent guard Caleb Love.


Sixers’ free agents

Kelly Oubre Jr., Quentin Grimes, Andre Drummond

All three are set to become unrestricted free agents at 6 p.m. ET.

Kelly Oubre Jr.

Oubre will also be departing the Sixers, per ESPN’s Shams Charania. The report is that he will sign a two, year $17 million dollar deal with the Indiana Pacers.

Quentin Grimes

Quentin Grimes’ time as a Sixer has officially come to an end as the free agent agrees to a four-year, $60 million deal to join the Los Angeles Lakers, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania.


Rumors

The Sixers haven’t been linked to many players ahead of free agency, but a couple familiar names could be candidates for the team to use a chunk — if not all — of its non-taxpayer mid-level exception on.

Dean Wade

There’s an obvious connection here as Mike Gansey was part of the Cavaliers’ front office when Cleveland signed Wade as an undrafted free agent back in 2019. The 6-foot-9 forward is considered one of the best and most versatile defenders on the market. While the Cavs are hoping to retain his services, Stein and Fischer have reported the Sixers have real interest.

John Collins

In the Sixers’ eternal quest for a starting-caliber four, they could turn to former Atlanta Hawk John Collins, who just finished his ninth NBA season with the LA Clippers. Collins could offer athleticism, rebounding and some shooting at a position of serious need. Stein and Fischer also linked Collins to the Sixers.


Team options

Dominick Barlow

The Sixers exercised their team option for Dominick Barlow, bringing him back for the 2026-27 season on a $3.4 million salary.

Dalen Terry

The Sixers exercised their team option for Dalen Terry, their two-way signing late last season, bringing him back for the 2026-27 season. However, it is important to note that Terry’s contract is fully non-guaranteed until January. This means the Sixers could feasibly waive Terry any time between now and January without taking a dead cap hit.

Trendon Watford

The Sixers declined to exercise their team option for Trendon Watford, who will now become an unrestricted free agent at 6 p.m.

Draymond Green calls out Warriors rookie Yaxel Lendeborg: ‘F— liar’

Draymond Green didn’t hold back when exposing his newest teammate on his podcast “The Draymond Green Show” on Tuesday.

Yaxel Lendeborg said he didn’t hear from Green, after being selected as the No.11 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, Green publicly called him out on his podcast, “The Draymond Green Show,” and called him a “F— liar,” and went on to say, “It’s the Michigan way, of course it’s the Michigan way.”

On Saturday, Green pulled out the receipts and posted a screenshot of his conversation with Lendeborg to confirm he did welcome the rookie.

An outraged Green went to his podcast to call out his newest teammate and didn’t hold back.

“Yaxel’s been f—— lying,” Green said. “I was very happy to expose the rookie on the internet. This guy, texts me. I text back within 30 seconds. …It’s my responsibility as a veteran to help you be in the best position that you can be to be successful and take over this franchise.”

Draymond Green calls out Yaxel Lendeborg for saying Green didn’t text him back. NBAE via Getty Images

Green went on to say that he had to expose him a little bit and gave him a warning by informing him that his credibility is everything.

As Green continued to speak, he didn’t rule out the possibility of bringing back rookie hazing, as he said the Warriors aren’t a team that participates in those kinds of activities anymore, but could bring it back.

“We’ve just never been that team, pouring in on rookie hazing,” Green said. “But we can pick that back up. We can definitely make it a little more interesting.”

Green said he’s been a part of some rookie hazing before in the past, as it involved popcorn and some tires going missing.

The clip finished with Green telling Lendeborg to “tread lightly,” as he said his rookie duties could start to increase as the season goes on, and added that there could be a day when the rookie has to drive out to a particular Best Buy to purchase a PlayStation 5.

Since Lendeborg got selected by the Warriors a week ago, he’s been receptive to some criticism for saying he grew up hating Curry as a kid, because he grew up a fan of Kyrie Irving, and calling out his new head coach, Steve Kerr, for not playing rookies.

Butler’s iconic Hinkle Fieldhouse will play host to the next NBA Cup final in December

The NBA is going back to college this coming season, bringing the NBA Cup championship game to Butler’s historic Hinkle Fieldhouse in Indianapolis.

Hinkle — one of the oldest arenas in the country — is iconic, and more than fits the billing that NBA Commissioner Adam Silver and other league officials were looking for when he said the league was searching for “storied college arenas” to play host to the Cup final.

The 2026-27 title game, to be played Dec. 11, will mark the first time the Cup final is held outside of Las Vegas — which hosted the final for the first three in-season tournaments.

“Hinkle Fieldhouse offers a special setting to capture the excitement and drama of the Emirates NBA Cup Championship,” NBA Head of Global Events Kelly Flatow said. “Playing the championship in an iconic basketball environment like this will further establish it as a signature moment on the NBA calendar.”

The arena, which has about 9,100 seats, has played host to at least six U.S. presidents — Herbert Hoover, Dwight Eisenhower, Richard Nixon, Gerald Ford, Bill Clinton and George H.W. Bush — along with the first U.S. vs. Soviet Union basketball games, circuses, tennis matches, ice shows and even was used as a barracks for the U.S. military during World War II.

“Hinkle Fieldhouse gets loud,” Boston Celtics basketball operations president Brad Stevens said when he coached at Butler, “and it gets as loud as loud gets.”

Hinkle also was home of the famed Indiana high school basketball tournament for decades, including 1954 when tiny Milan High beat Muncie Central High to win the state title in the story that served as the inspiration for the classic basketball movie “Hoosiers” — which used Hinkle as the set for its championship game.

Indianapolis native Oscar Robertson also played there; his Crispus Attucks High team won state titles in that arena in 1955 and 1956 as well. It also has been the site of NBA games in the past, along with some WNBA games in 2022.

The Los Angeles Lakers won the inaugural NBA Cup in 2023; the event was simply called the in-season tournament that year. Milwaukee won in 2024 and New York beat San Antonio for the 2025 title — in a preview of this season’s NBA Finals, in which the Knicks topped the Spurs again.

Warriors’ Anthony Davis trade rumors shut down by latest Wizards report

LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Anthony Davis
LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Anthony Davis

The Golden State Warriors’ dream of pairing LeBron James and Anthony Davis with Stephen Curry appears to be losing steam before free agency even fully takes shape.

After days of speculation that Golden State were attempting try to sign James and trade for Davis, the Washington Wizards are reportedly not interested in moving the star big man.

Warriors’ rumored Anthony Davis trade pursuit appears over, with the Wizards reportedly unwilling to move the star big man this NBA offseason at all. Charles Wenzelberg / New York Post

According to ESPN’s Marc J. Spears, Washington is not entertaining trade offers for Davis, with one NBA executive saying Wizards general manager Will Dawkins is a major admirer of the 10-time All-Star.

That stance deals a major blow to one of the wildest rumors of the offseason.

LeBron James and Anthony Davis were teammates with the Lakers and won an NBA championship. AP

The idea gained traction after Draymond Green declined his $27.7 million player option, a move that opened the door for speculation about Golden State creating more flexibility.

The Warriors hoped to reunite James and Davis, who won a championship together with the Lakers in 2020, while keeping Curry and Green in place.

That would have required several moving pieces. Golden State likely would have needed to involve Jimmy Butler’s large expiring salary to make a Davis trade work.

Butler’s agent, Bernie Lee, also pushed back on the idea that Golden State would move him for Davis, telling ESPN that the Warriors have been firm in their plan to help Butler rehab his ACL injury and return with the team.

The Golden State Warriors’ dream of pairing LeBron James and Anthony Davis with Stephen Curry appears to be losing steam before free agency even fully takes shape. NBAE via Getty Images

And now the momentum has shifted.

Davis’ future with the Wizards had been unclear since Washington acquired him from the Dallas Mavericks in a February trade. His age, injury history and massive contract made him an obvious name to watch. Davis is set to earn $58.5 million in 2026-27 and holds a $62.8 million player option for the following season.

He has also played in just 243 of a possible 410 games over the past five seasons.

Davis’ future with the Wizards had been unclear since Washington acquired him from the Dallas Mavericks in a February trade AP

Still, Washington appears ready to keep him. When healthy, Davis remains one of the league’s best two-way big men. He averaged 20.4 points, 11.1 rebounds and 1.7 blocks last season while shooting 50.6 percent from the field.

For the Wizards, the plan now appears to be building around Davis, Trae Young and No. 1 pick AJ Dybantsa.

For the Warriors, the LeBron chase may continue. They are now the front runners according to betting markets.

But the Davis part of the dream looks finished.

Jalen Duren likely to resign with Pistons, leave Lakers still searching for star center

Jalen Duren of the Pistons dribbles the ball between two Cavaliers players during a game.
Jalen Duren was once considered a prime Lakers target in NBA free agency.

The Lakers’ dreams of acquiring a Jalen Duren might already be coming to an end.

According to senior ESPN NBA writer Marc J. Spears, the Detroit Pistons have reportedly offered Duren the most lucrative contract possible and do not have an interest in any sign-and-trade deals that will match any potential offer he signs.

Detroit Pistons’ Jalen Duren is reportedly being offered a contract by the Pistons. Getty Images

Duren is set to be a restricted free agent for Detroit.

On Monday, the Lakers were reportedly set to meet with Duren on Tuesday to work out a sign-and-trade deal.

But with Detroit apparently no longer looking to give Duren up so easily, the Lakers’ strategy might force them to pivot.

Last year, Duren was selected to his first NBA All-Star game last season after averaging 19.5 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks per game, helping the Pistons snap an 18-year playoff drought as the number 1 seed in the Eastern Conference.

With DeAndre Ayton and Jaxson Hayes listed as two centers on the Lakers roster, they will have to look elsewhere if they want to upgrade the position.


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Jalen Duren was once considered a prime Lakers target in NBA free agency. NBAE via Getty Images

Two weeks ago, Luka Dončić said he wanted the Lakers to acquire more shooters and wants the team to land an A-list center, to help him run the pick and roll, like he famously did with the Dallas Mavericks, when they went to the 2024 NBA Finals.

The Market at center is rather thin this offseason, as Ayton was considered the top player at the position before he opted in to his $8.1 million option on Monday.

According to the reports of Duren meeting with the Lakers, the Sacramento Kings were also scheduled to meet with him and were reportedly set to offer 30-year-old Domantas Sabonis in order to trade for Duren.

The team has also reportedly had interest in acquiring Walker Kessler of the Utah Jazz, who would be a huge upgrade over Ayton.

The potential Wizards roadblock in a possible LeBron James-Anthony Davis reunion

An image collage containing 2 images, Image 1 shows Dallas Mavericks forward Anthony Davis (3) with the ball being guarded by Philadelphia 76ers center Adem Bona (30), Image 2 shows LeBron James in a purple Lakers jersey with number 23, smiling during a game

The Wizards plan on holding on to one of their veteran stars amid trade rumors.

Washington is not interested in trading Anthony Davis and is not even listening to trade offers on him, a source told ESPN’s Marc J. Spears on Tuesday.

Another NBA team executive said Wizards general manager Will Dawkins is a big fan of Davis, per Spears.

LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts to a call during the second half against the Chicago Bulls on January 26, 2026 at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois. Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

The report comes as trade rumors have been circulating about Davis for several weeks.

Kevin O’Connor of Yahoo Sports previously reported that the Warriors wanted to reunite Davis and LeBron James, putting them with Steph Curry. However, ESPN’s Brian Windhorst said Tuesday that there hadn’t been any progress in talks between Golden State and Washington.

Davis is eligible for an extension this offseason. In a thus-far active offseason, the Wizards have already extended Trae Young with a four-year, $212 million contract.

They also drafted AJ Dybantsa with the first overall pick out of BYU. Dybantsa joins Washington’s young core that also includes Alex Sarr and Kyshawn George.

Davis has yet to appear in a game for Washington. He played only 20 games last season due to injuries, and after being traded to the Wizards from the Mavericks in February, the team shut him down so he could recover fully from his groin and hand injuries.

Dallas Mavericks forward Anthony Davis (3) IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Davis, a 10-time All-Star, averaged 20.4 points, 11.1 rebounds and 1.7 blocks per game for the Mavericks last season, shooting 50.6 percent from the field.

Should Davis remain with the Wizards, it would throw a wrench into the Warriors’ possible plans to build a superteam with Davis, James, and Curry, with Draymond Green potentially returning as well.

LeFree Agency: NBA Free Agency Open Thread

PARIS, FRANCE - AUGUST 10: Anthony Edwards of Team United States (L) and LeBron James of Team United States react during the Men's Gold Medal Ceremony, Game 50, match between France and United States on day fifteen of the Olympic Games Paris 2024 at Bercy Arena on August 10, 2024 in Paris, France. (Photo by Jari Pestelacci/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The clock has struck 5:00 p.m. CT which means that NBA free agency is now officially open!

Just when you thought some of the bigger dominos had already fallen (Giannis, LaMelo, Ja, Jaylen Clark), there was more breaking news today. A pair of first ballot Hall of Fame names popped up.

The NBA news cycle really doesn’t sleep. The biggest headline now is clearly the free agency of LeBron James. Many have speculated that the Golden State Warriors would be the leader for land the 41-year-old. He has publicly shared his enjoyment of playing with Stephen Curry during the Olympics. Draymond Green, a close friend of James’, also restructured his contract with the Warriors in order to make room for the pursuit of James.

Other options that have been commonly mentioned include a return to the Miami HEAT to join Giannis Antetokounmpo, or a final swan song with his hometown Cleveland Cavaliers. Are the Minnesota Timberwolves in the race for the four-time MVP? Some close to the team don’t seem to think so.

That said, Jon Krawcynski is also on record saying that the Timberwolves have interest in James, just like they have for any star player. Minnesota still has a glaring hole at the power forward spot, can provide him an opportunity to play for a contending team, and James hasn’t been shy about his adoration of Anthony Edwards either.

If James chooses a non-Wolves team, life must continue for President of Basketball Operations, Tim Connelly. It’s been rumored that Connelly is still working on transactions to upgrade the roster, specifically at the power forward spot. Who would fit Minnesota’s need while coming at an affordable price? There are plenty of options that will be available.

Lastly, it remains to be seen if Connelly will bring back the veteran presence of Mike Conley or Kyle Anderson. It’s been speculated that there is mutual interest between the Wolves and those two potential returners. Meanwhile, Connelly has already pulled the trigger to bring back half of the Twin Turbos.

What else would you like to see?

Report: Wizards ‘not interested’ in trading Anthony Davis

SAN FRANCISCO, CA - MARCH 27: Anthony Davis #23 of the Washington Wizards looks on during the game against the Golden State Warriors on March 27, 2026 at Chase Center 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. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Noah Graham/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

While reports on Monday emerged that the Golden State Warriors were preparing to pursue superstars LeBron James and Anthony Davis this offseason, a report by Marc J. Spears of Andscape seems to downplay the possibility Golden State could reunite the former teammates together. Per Spears, the Washington Wizards have no interest in trading Davis this offseason.

“The Washington Wizards are not interested in trading 10-time NBA All-Star forward Anthony Davis and are not listening to trade offers for him, a source told @espn @andscape,” Spears wrote in a Tweet. “Another NBA team exec says Wizards GM Will Dawkins is a huge fan of AD.”

Of course, this would be far from the first time a front office publicly downplayed their interest in a trade to try and create leverage and receive a better offer. It sure seems like the rumors were largely fueled by James and Davis’ agent, Rich Paul of Klutch Sports, who is consistently one of the best agents at pressuring teams into scenarios that are best for his clients. Paul is presumably leveraging the desire for Davis to want a trade to force the Wizards into a large extension, like they recently gave Trae Young. The Wizards appear to be calling that bluff since Davis is under contract for next season.

It’s important to note that even if Davis is off the table for the Warriors, which the decision to re-sign center Kristaps Porzingis seemingly signaled yesterday, that they have not been eliminated from the LeBron sweepstakes. Jake Fischer of The Steinline reported that the Warriors had not been given any mandate to acquire Davis if they wanted to sign James as a free agent.

Bucks sign Ousmane Dieng to three-year deal as free agency begins

Apr 12, 2026; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Ousmane Dieng (21) drives against Philadelphia 76ers forward Paul George (8) in the second quarter at Xfinity Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Ross-Imagn Images | Kyle Ross-Imagn Images

The Milwaukee Bucks are keeping Ousmane Dieng around, according to ESPN insider Shams Charania.

“Free agent forward Ousmane Dieng has agreed to a three-year, $17.5 million deal to return to the Milwaukee Bucks, sources tell ESPN. Dieng had a strong finish to last season after his trade from OKC, and now Bucks officials finalize the deal with agents Michael Tellem of Excel Sports Management and Marius Rutkauskas,” Charania tweeted.

Dieng, 23, won the NBA championship in 2025 with the Oklahoma City Thunder but was traded twice in February and eventually landed with the Bucks, where he was able to get more playing time.

The former 2022 lottery pick from France averaged 11 points per game in 30 appearances for the Bucs at the tail end of last season.

Dieng has a lot of potential, which was flexed at times with the Bucks last season. On Feb. 12 against his former team, the Thunder, Dieng scored 19 points while grabbing 11 rebounds and dishing out six assists. He scored a career-high 36 points with 10 assists and seven rebounds in Milwaukee’s 119-113 loss to the Houston Rockets on Apr. 1.

Dieng will likely have an opportunity to earn some minutes now that Giannis Antetokounmpo has been traded to the Miami Heat. The Bucks will have him in the mix on a team-friendly deal as they figure out how to navigate the post-Giannis waters.

Brew Hoop community, how do you feel about Dieng’s return? Let us know in the comments section below.

LeBron James next team 2026: Will LeBron join Stephen Curry, Draymond Green on Warriors? Reunion with Heat?

LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers are having an amicable breakup.

LeBron's decision to leave the Lakers is a "happiness-led decision" and "not driven by money," according to Shams Charania of ESPN. Maybe that's because the money is pretty much set — the teams looking at him basically will have the (non-taxpayer) mid-level exception of $15.1 million. Maybe the Lakers would have offered more, but not dramatically.

So what will make LeBron happy? My sense is that this is less about happiness and more about respect. LeBron knows how well he played for the Lakers last season, averaging 20.9 points, 7.2 assists and 6.1 rebounds a game and lifting the team past Houston in the playoffs when Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves were out. His reward was being told the franchise was focused on rebuilding around Doncic, and LeBron himself had to take a steep pay cut.

So where does LeBron land? Where does he get the respect he seeks? Here are the three choices on the table.

Golden State Warriors

This is the team that checks the most boxes:

Close to his family in Los Angeles? ✅
Will play meaningful games in a big spotlight? ✅.
Wants him? ✅. (The Warriors have been trying to lure him in for more than a year.)

About the money, after agreeing to a new two-year, $40 million contract with Kristaps Porzingis, the only way the Warriors can offer the full mid-level exception is to salary-dump Moses Moody in a trade, or get LeBron and Draymond Green to take even less on their new deals. The Warriors have work to do, but they can get there.

The Warriors' ultimate dream reportedly was to pair LeBron, Curry, Green and Anthony Davis — except Washington has no intention of trading Davis, according to Marc Spears of ESPN.

Instead, the core is Curry, LeBron, Green and Jimmy Butler, once he returns from a torn ACL (likely in the middle of the season). If healthy, that group is a tough out in a seven-game playoff series.

Either way, this is a team that might provide the happiness LeBron seeks.

Cleveland Cavaliers

Cleveland has interest in bringing LeBron home, reports Chris Haynes.

LeBron finishing his career where it started makes for a fantastic narrative. Also, LeBron, as the veteran who shows up in big games, playing with Donovan Mitchell, James Harden and Evan Mobley, is a legit threat to win the East.

However, it's going to take a little work to get Cleveland to be able to offer the mid-level exception. If Cleveland wants to do this, it could let Dean Wade walk in free agency (he may be leaving anyway), then salary-dump Max Strus, taking back no salary (it likely costs the Cavs a pick to do that). If Cleveland can do all that, it can offer LeBron the full $15.1 million mid-level exception.

(Some fans have suggested a sign-and-trade with the Lakers, the problem is that any sign-and-trade would hard cap the Cavaliers at the first apron, meaning they would need to trim about another $14 million in salary from the books. That would start to gut the team.)

This can happen. The question is: Does LeBron James want to go home again? Again.

Miami Heat

LeBron James with Giannis Antetokounmpo? The Greek Freak has never been subtle about how much he admires LeBron.

LeBron won a title in Miami but did not exactly part on the best of terms, and there are scars. It's fair to ask if everyone can and is willing to move beyond this.

The reason for Miami to get over it and make this move is simple: The Heat need more talent around Antetokounmpo, and LeBron is still an All-Star-level player, even at age 41. The pairing of LeBron and Antetokounmpo with Bam Adebayo and quality role players is interesting, one that can make some noise in the East.

Financially, the best Miami can offer is the remainder of its mid-level exception, about $10.5 million (it is using part of it to bring back Simone Fontecchio). Is that enough for LeBron?

San Antonio Spurs

It's a massive long shot and pure speculation — and LeBron would be accused of ring chasing — but hear me out.

San Antonio has its mid-level exception, and what they need is someone at the four who can play off Victor Wembanyama, someone who can play inside and out and serve as a secondary playmaker. Plus, LeBron in the locker room would be a great mentor for Wembanyama, Dylan Harper, Stephon Castle and the rest of them. LeBron does make the Spurs title favorites.

It's highly unlikely LeBron packs up and moves to Texas for a year — the sides are not talking, as far as we know — but it's a fun dream.

Dusty May addresses role of NIL era in Michigan departure, how it can be ‘segue’ to NBA

© Raymond Carlin III-Imagn Images

When Dusty May left Michigan for the Dallas Mavericks just months removed from a national title, speculation grew about how the NIL and transfer portal era in college basketball impacted his decision. He previously made his concerns clear about the landscape.

Speaking with reporters Monday during his introductory press conference, May said the landscape was not a “big reason” for his move to the pros. But he admitted how much things have changed during his coaching career and that he can focus on Xs and Os in the NBA.

May spoke highly of the people in the Mavericks’ facility and said they helped seal his decision as he gets ready to take over the franchise. As he looks ahead to his next chapter, he made it clear his desire to keep his focus on the court rather than issues away from the hardwood.

“I wouldn’t say a big reason,” May said. “The big reason are the people in this facility, first and foremost. It’s much more complicated than it used to be. I love teaching, I love coaching, I love being a part of a team. In college basketball, you don’t get to do near as much of that as you used to. So there are some things that I’m not going to miss about college basketball. But I wouldn’t be here without our players, without our staff. Had an unbelievable 25 [or] 27 years, whatever it’s been, in college athletics.

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“But excited for this opportunity and to do the things – I think we all know, as people, the things you love to do, you typically do them well. So I’m just excited to dive in, spending more time on the things that I enjoy doing every day, and work with passion on.”

Dusty May: ‘NIL era is a segue into the NBA’

By taking the Mavericks’ job, Dusty May became the first active college coach to leave for the NBA since John Beilein left Michigan for the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2019. As a result, he’s the first to do so in the NIL era.

But May argued the modern college landscape with NIL and the transfer portal can make for an easier transition. He also noted the similarities in playing style between the two and how that can set him up for success.

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“When I left FAU to go to Michigan, I felt like that changing landscape and the magnitude of our FAU program was a segue to Michigan,” May said. “And I feel like the last five years of the NIL era is a segue into the NBA where we weren’t coaching professional players, per se, where they’re under contract. But they were getting paid. The same problems – not at the same scale – but similar problems, similar issues, similar challenges. The game is closer than ever. College, NBA, the G-League. Stylistically, they all look very, very similar, if you’re playing modern basketball.

“And as far as all the other things, you’re never ready. It’s like being a parent. You’re never prepared, you’re never ready. But hopefully, you’ve prepared and done everything in your power to tackle all the challenges. The last five years, it’s been a very similar game on and off the court.”

Cavaliers Reacts Survey: Has Evan Mobley reached his ceiling?

CLEVELAND, OHIO - JANUARY 23: Center Evan Mobley #4 of the Cleveland Cavaliers drives to the basket around center Dylan Cardwell #32 of the Sacramento Kings at Rocket Arena on January 23, 2026 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Cavaliers defeated the Kings 123-118. 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

Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NBA. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Cavaliers fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.

The Cleveland Cavaliers have been stuck between two timelines since the Donovan Mitchell trade back in 2022. They were a young team when that deal was made, but quickly grew into having expectations after acquiring a perennial All-Star talent.

That timeline was bumped up even more when they swapped out Darius Garland for a decade older James Harden. That move allowed the Cavs to advance to the conference finals for the first time since 2018, but also significantly impacted their runway for sustained success.

Even Mobley’s ascendance as a rookie is one of the contributing factors that led to the Cavs parting with their draft capital to land Mitchell. That said, he hasn’t grown into the player Cleveland has needed him to be to get through the Eastern Conference. There were many at the time who hoped Mobley would take the reins and become the best player on a contender.

Mobley has proven to be a great player at 25 years old. You don’t accidentally become a Defensive Player of the Year and an All-NBA Player without being great. However, it’s fair to wonder if Mobley is going to keep progressing into the superstar big that many hoped he would become as recently as a year ago. And if he doesn’t, can the Cavs become a championship-level team?

This week’s question is simple. Has Evan Mobley reached his ceiling as a player? Or can his game still reach another level?

Let us know in the survey below, and tell us why you voted how you did in the comments.

Updated Sixers 2026-27 roster throughout monumental free agency

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - DECEMBER 07: Tyrese Maxey #0 of the Philadelphia 76ers hugs Lebron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers after a game at Xfinity Mobile Arena on December 07, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Los Angeles Lakers won 112-108. 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 Emilee Chinn/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The 2026 NBA Draft is over, and free agency is underway. With all the comings and goings throughout the league overall, it can be hard to keep up with who is actually on the Philadelphia 76ers roster from day to day.

So, use our tracker below to help you stay up-to-date on the Sixers’ roster as free agency (and the offseason as a whole) continues!

Note: players will not be added to the roster until they are officially signed by the team, which is why Kentavious Caldwell-Pope does not currently appear on the list.

Updated 7/27/26

Current Sixers’ standard roster (14 of 15 filled)

Dominick Barlow, F

Adem Bona, C

Johni Broome, C

Jaylen Brown, F

VJ Edgecombe, G

Justin Edwards, G

Joel Embiid, C

Ariel Hukporti, C

LeBron James, F

Tyrese Maxey, G

Labaron Philon Jr., G (No. 22 pick of 2026 NBA Draft)

Anfernee Simons, G

Dean Wade, F

Jabari Walker, F (not fully guaranteed until January 2027)

Current Sixers’ two-way contracts (2 of 3 filled)

Caleb Love, G

Rayan Rupert, G

Grading Clippers, Raptors Kawhi Leonard swap: Which team won the trade?

Breaking news just keeps coming out of Los Angeles. On the day where the topic of conversation has been LeBron James and his decision to not return to the Lakers, the other LA team got busy in the headlines.

The Los Angeles Clippers executed a deal with the Toronto Raptors to send them Kawhi Leonard in exchange for Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, two first-round picks, one pick swap and two second-round picks, according to multiple reports.

Leonard is coming off a career year where he averaged 27.4 points per game in his 14th NBA season. He returns to the Raptors, a familiar scene for Leonard, who won the 2019 championship and Finals MVP in Toronto.

As for LA, they lose a bonafide superstar but also bring back a player familiar with the area. Ingram was drafted by the Lakers as the No. 2 overall selection in the 2016 NBA Draft and now returns to southern California a decade later. Additionally, they bring in Dick, who has high basketball IQ, moves without the ball and can knock down 3-pointers at an elite level.

The cherry on top is all of the picks that Clippers accumulated: two firsts, two seconds and an added pick swap.

The Clippers lose star power, but Ingram and Dick will prove to be good fits around Darius Garland and Benedict Mathurin, who arrived midseason last year following trades. Appearing in 77 games during the 2025-26 season, Ingram averaged 21.5 points on 47.7% shooting, including 38% from 3-point distance.

It's rare that trades actually benefit both team and address areas of need. This is one those rare cases. USA TODAY Sports grades the blockbuster swap.

Kawhi Leonard trade details

  • Raptors receive: Kawhi Leonard
  • Clippers receive: Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, unprotected first-round picks in 2031 and 2033, second-round picks in 2030 and 2033 and a 2027 first-round swap

USA TODAY Sports grades Raptors-Clippers trade

Toronto Raptors: A-

This move couldn't have come at a better time. Somehow the Raptors have done it again. They built their team and developed their players to the point where they were one piece away from winning the NBA title, or at least being in contention.

I'm talking about 2019. But seven years later, it's like Toronto ran the same exact play. They built through the draft and trades. Leonard will join a team that includes a supporting cast of Scottie Barnes, RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley.

The team is coming off a 46-36 season that was good enough for the No. 5-seed in the Eastern Conference. It was the Raptors' first playoff appearance since 2022, but they were eliminated in the first round by the Cleveland Cavaliers in seven games.

Adding a player like Leonard only adds to their ceiling. I'm not buying that the team is an immediate title contender, but they will startle some teams. If Leonard, 35, remains healthy, we could see another championship run in T-Dot.

It's definitely a "win-now" move as the Raptors take on an aging superstar to maximize their current championship window.

Los Angeles Clippers: B

Never a fan of shipping a superstar, but if you get ideal pieces in return, it's a good move. The Clippers didn't shop with the Raptors to leave empty handed. In return, they managed to pry Ingram, Dick and additional picks from the Raptors.

It may not appear to move the needle considering the loss of a franchise player, but the Clippers remain interesting as a team that could scare opponents through late April once they put it all together.

Last year, LA's season ended in the NBA Play-In Tournament, losing to the Golden State Warriors courtesy of late-game heroics from Steph Curry. They finished 42-40 after starting the season 5-21.

There are a lot of questions that need answers such as team fit and chemistry, but at their best, this team will find themselves just outside of the top-6 playoff spots and competing in the Play-in Tournament for a second consecutive season.

The Clippers' mix of young players and veterans is a recipe for success.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY Sports: Grading Clippers, Raptors Kawhi Leonard swap: Which team won the trade?

LeBron Sweepstakes: Which Landing Spots Offer Best Title Odds?

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As the basketball world awaits LeBron James' free-agency decision, NBA championship odds show which of his potential suitors have the best chance to win next season's title.

Key Takeaways

  • The Golden State Warriors are the betting favorites to land James.

  • Of all teams linked to the superstar, the Minnesota Timberwolves and Cleveland Cavaliers have the best title odds.

  • The Lakers fell to +4,500 in odds after it was announced James would be departing.

James and the Los Angeles Lakers confirmed the end of their eight-year tenure Tuesday, when free-agent negotiations are allowed to begin. This marks the fourth time that James is leaving his team, following stints with the Cleveland Cavaliers (2003-10 and 2014-18), Miami Heat (2010-14), and the Lakers (2018-26).

News of James’ departure sent the Lakers plummeting to +4,500 in FanDuel's odds to win the NBA Finals - good for just 14th in the league.

Reports suggest the Golden State Warriors, Washington Wizards, Cavaliers, and Heat could be interested in his services.

The Athletic’s Jon Krawczynski also noted that James has been a long-time supporter of Minnesota Timberwolves superstar Anthony Edwards, with whom he won a gold medal at the 2024 Olympics.

The betting favorite in LeBron James’ next team odds, the Warriors, supposedly have the strongest interest in acquiring the 41-year-old. James also reportedly has an interest in playing with former Lakers teammate Anthony Davis alongside Stephen Curry and Draymond Green. 

Even if verbal agreements made over the next week, nothing can become contractually binding until July 6 at 12:01 p.m. ET.

Finals odds for potential suitors

The general assumption is that James will play for a team that has a real chance of securing him a fifth championship of his soon-to-be-24-year career. 

Among the teams linked to James, the Timberwolves and Cavs have the shortest title odds at +2,200. Those odds still only carry a 4.4% implied chance, albeit without James being counted on their rosters.

One of James’ former teams, the Heat, is close behind at +2,700 odds (3.6% chance) following their trade acquisition of Giannis Antetokounmpo. James won back-to-back titles with the Heat in 2012 and 2013.

The Warriors are immediately behind the Heat at +3,000 (3.2% chance). They were crowned NBA champs as recently as 2022.

The Wizards, a largely unexpected team that could be in the mix, have the longest odds among James' apparent suitors at +25,000 (0.4% chance). They just selected AJ Dybantsa with the first pick in the NBA draft, but they also have Anthony Davis on their roster as a means of possibly enticing James to sign on.

Tough road to title No. 5

Among NBA champions since 2015-16, the 2018-19 Raptors had the longest preseason odds, opening at +1,850, according to Sports Odds History. There are only four teams with odds shorter than that at the time of writing: the Oklahoma City Thunder (+270), San Antonio Spurs (+270), Boston Celtics (+700), and New York Knicks (+850), none of which have been linked to James.

James’ worst opening title odds in the last decade were assigned before the 2024-25 season, when his Lakers were only +2,500 (3.9% chance).

The Lakers’ +1,400 odds at this time one year ago would rank fifth among all teams presently.

This article originally appeared on Covers.com, read the full article here and view our best betting sites or check out our top sportsbook promos.