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How Warriors center Quinten Post hopes to improve his game in second NBA season

How Warriors center Quinten Post hopes to improve his game in second NBA season originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

Quinten Post wants to take his game to the next level in his second NBA season.

The young Warriors center spoke exclusively with The Mercury News’ Joseph Dycus about his “busy” offseason and what he is looking to improve on after his standout rookie campaign.

After recovering from an ankle injury that sidelined him for the Warriors’ NBA Summer League slate, Post told The Mercury News that he has been working out five days a week at Chase Center and is focused on improving his strength and agility in order to become a better defender in Year 2.

“A big part for next year is guarding without fouling,” Post told Dycus. “I fouled too much, especially in situations where it wasn’t necessary, where I could just use my size to wall up and make guys take hard shots.”

Post quickly earned a role in coach Steve Kerr’s rotations as a sharpshooting big, shooting a team-high 40.8 percent from deep in 42 games (14 starts), but has made a concerted effort this offseason to improve as an all-around playmaker while not losing sight of what makes him such a unique weapon.

“On the (screen and) roll, being able to pass in those short-roll situations, and also finish versus smaller defenders is something I have worked on,” Post said.

“[Shooting] is the thing that brought me here, and I want to keep expanding on that and become a more versatile shooter.”

The Warriors reportedly are expected to sign veteran center Al Horford once their ongoing contract negotiations with restricted free-agent forward Jonathan Kuminga are cleared up, and if they do, Post likely will compete with third-year big Trayce Jackson-Davis for the backup center role.

Regardless of what role he plays, Post is ready to contribute any way he can.

“Whatever’s happening with the team, or outside the team, that shouldn’t change my motivation for this year,” Post added.

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Ramp to Camp: What's one thing you want to see from Pritchard this season?

Ramp to Camp: What's one thing you want to see from Pritchard this season? originally appeared on NBC Sports Boston

It’s the middle of the summer, and this reporter is tap-dancing around essentially asking Payton Pritchard whether he wants to be a starter for the 2025-26 season. Training camp is still more than two months away and we’re trying not to put Pritchard in a tough spot, but he shares an incredibly diplomatic response to our rambling query. 

“Obviously, I would play all 48 minutes if I could,” said Pritchard. “That’s just the competitor in me. I want to play all the time.”

Pritchard quickly adds that he’s ready for whatever role Joe Mazzulla throws at him and will do whatever the team asks of him. That, of course, is what makes Pritchard so valuable. Winning is his North Star, and the individual accolades collected along the way are just byproducts of hunting the larger team goal.

Last season, Pritchard’s mindset delivered the NBA’s Sixth Man of the Year award. Over the summer, the NBA basically created the Payton Pritchard Rule by eliminating end-of-quarter heaves from individual stat lines. (He was one of the few players willing to consistently take that shot.) The Celtics have an 18th banner in no small part because of Pritchard’s selflessness.

So what’s next for Pritchard? For Day 13 of our Ramp to Camp series, that’s the question we asked our panel to probe. 

Mazzulla has an intriguing decision to make about how he utilizes his new-look roster. With the departure of Jrue Holiday, there is a starting guard spot available. Some will lobby that newcomer Anfernee Simons, acquired from Portland in the Holiday trade, ought to slot there.

We tend to think Pritchard deserves first crack because, 1) He’s a core member of what remains of that 2024 championship team, and 2) Every time the Celtics have thrown more on his plate, he’s devoured it while taking another step in his NBA evolution.

The 2025-26 season feels like a perfect opportunity to answer a query that has lingered for much of Pritchard’s NBA career: Can he thrive as a starter with the Celtics? There’s little reason to think he couldn’t, and we’re eager to see him get every opportunity to show he can do more this season.

We’re also not against the idea of “48 minutes of Pritchard” as a way to mask the talent drain on this year’s roster.

Regardless of role, our wish list for Pritchard this season is pretty simple:

  • We want to see him compete defensively when matched up against other elite guards.
  • We want to see him continue to be one of the best rebounding guards in the league for a team that lost considerable size and experience in the frontcourt.
  • We want to see Pritchard continue to limit turnovers even as his usage rate potentially spikes this season.

Most of all, we just want Pritchard’s energy and desire to be infectious with this team. Pritchard plays hard, he plays smart, and good things happen when he’s on the floor. The Celtics need a whole bunch of that while Jayson Tatum is rehabbing. 

We’ll see what happens from there. While I don’t think we’ll ever see another season like Isaiah Thomas’ 2016-17 campaign when he blossomed into an MVP-caliber player, we simply can’t rule out the possibility of Pritchard having an All-Star glow-up given the changes to Boston’s roster. 

Last season, Pritchard averaged 19 points, 5.3 assists, and five rebounds over 10 games played without Tatum. He was at 16.4 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game in 19 contests without Jaylen Brown. If the Celtics outkick expectations early in the 2025-26 season, either Pritchard or Derrick White is making an All-Star team. The opportunity is there.

And every time there is opportunity, Pritchard pounces on it.

Here’s how our panel responded when asked about the one thing they want to see from Pritchard:

Darren Hartwell, Managing Editor

It’s time to unleash “Post-up P.”

Pritchard is exceptional at burrowing into the lane and finishing around taller defenders, and he should have even more opportunities to show off his low-post moves this season with an expanded role. We’re looking forward to Drew and Scal going nuts when the 6-foot-1 guard deftly maneuvers around opponents in the paint.

Michael Hurley, Web Producer

Keep. On. Shooting.

This year presents a fun opportunity for Pritchard, who’s already taken massive jumps in 3-point attempts per game over each of the past two seasons. He went from 3.2 in 2022-23 to 4.7 in 2023-24, and he upped it to 7.8 per game last season. Only two players (Malik Beasley and Jordan Poole) took more threes while averaging fewer than 30 minutes per game, so there’s room for Pritchard to let it rip even more.

The Celtics will be making up for the 10.1 threes Tatum attempted per game last year, and Pritchard should be the one who capitalizes the most.

Sean McGuire, Web Producer

Pritchard figures to be in line for a spot in the starting lineup, and with that he’ll need to elevate himself as a playmaker alongside Brown and White.

The 2024-25 Sixth Man of the Year took steps forward last season as he averaged a career-high 14.3 points and 3.5 assists in 28 minutes per game. But with Tatum and Holiday not aiding in facilitating this season, there will be room for Pritchard to make his mark.

Josh Canu, Media Editor

Adjust to a starter’s role.

I fully expect Pritchard to slide in next to White in the Celtics’ backcourt. There is always an adjustment when moving from a high-volume bench role to a starter role where he will likely be the third option. His defense will need to be on point and he will have to find offensive efficiency with potentially a lower volume of shots.

Max Lederman, Content Producer

I want to see Pritchard prove he’s a championship-level starting point guard. We know he can win a title as a Sixth Man, but can he hold up playing starter minutes?

Adam Hart, EP, Content Strategy

Let’s run back Sixth Man of the Year.

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Adam Silver says investigation will 'get to the bottom' of Kawhi Leonard endorsement deal

The NBA investigation into Kawhi Leonard's endorsement deal with now bankrupt team sponsor Aspiration — which a bombshell investigation by the Pablo Torre Finds Out podcast called a "no-show" deal designed to be salary cap circumvention — is now underway. Most likely it will be months, maybe into 2026, before we have the results and any potential consequences for the Clippers and owner Steve Ballmer.

That hasn't stopped everyone around the league from talking about the case.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, appearing Tuesday at the Sports Business Journal's AXS DRIVE event in Los Angeles, said the league will get to the bottom of what is happening.

Silver continues to sound like a cautious lawyer in dealing with this.

Ballmer continues to express his innocence and said that again at the same event Silver was at (they did not speak at the same time). Here are highlights of the Clippers' owners' comments, via the Sports Business Journal.

"This is not a fun thing to be through. I was personally defrauded through our interactions with the company and some of the staff... But the important thing is, our relationship with the company and our player's relationship with the company were independent, which is important under the rules of the NBA. I feel quite confident in that, that we abided [by] the rules. So, I welcome the investigation that the NBA is doing. It's a great way, from our perspective, to get the facts out there...

"It's a whole lot more fun to be highlighted for building a great arena. But this too shall pass. And like I said, I feel very good about what we did, and we welcome the NBA taking a look at it and hopefully agreeing with us."

The basics of the case, as we know them, lay out like this: In September of 2021, Ballmer made a $50 million investment in Aspiration, a "green bank" company whose model was to plant trees to build up carbon credits, which it would in turn sell to companies that needed them. Not long after, Kawhi Leonard agreed to a four-year, $178 million max contract extension with the Clippers. Aspiration went on to become a Clippers' sponsor in a deal reportedly worth around $300 million. The company also reached an endorsement deal with Leonard, originally for $28 million, but later another $20 million in stock was added to the agreement (that stock is now worthless), bringing Leonard's endorsement deal to $48 million total.

The troubling point for Leonard and the Clippers is that he appeared to do no work for this endorsement money, which is why it was described as a "no-show" job. There is no evidence that he did any marketing or other promotional work for the company, nor did he even post on social media about the company. While the company's former CEO said the contract had work requirements, none of that work is evident. That smells fishy.

Two other things seem hard to explain. By December 2022, Aspiration was struggling to make payroll and stay in business. They were under investigation and were also late on a $1.75 million payment due to Leonard. That's when Clippers minority owner Dennis Wong made a $2 million investment in the company, and nine days later, Leonard was paid. Then, in March of 2023, Ballmer stepped in and made another $10 million investment in Aspiration, seeming to throw good money after bad.

Silver said previously that the burden of proof is on the NBA, the organization making the accusation, not on the Clippers (even though a lot of people around the league think the tsunami of circumstantial evidence against the Clippers shifts at least some of the burden onto them). Ballmer has consistently and vehemently denied any wrongdoing by himself or the Clippers, saying there is a separation between the team's deal with Aspiration and the company's endorsement deal with Leonard.

For now, everyone is waiting on the league's investigation (being done by an outside law firm). That hasn't stopped everyone from talking about what is going to happen next.

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Knicks sign Trey Jemison III, Tosan Evbuomwan to two-way contracts

The Knicks have signed center Trey Jemison III and forward Tosan Evbuomwan to two-way contracts, sources tell SNY NBA Insider Ian Begley. 

Jemison, a 6-foot-11, 270-pound big man, will provide New York with some additional front-court depth.

Evbuomwan's signing was originally announced on Tuesday as an Exhibit 10 contract, but Begley reported it will be a two-way deal.

Jemison, 25, has appeared in 63 NBA games (14 starts) with four organizations over the past two seasons. He played 22 games with the Lakers and 16 games with the Pelicans a year ago, averaging 10.3 minutes with 2.5 points and 2.8 rebounds during his time with both franchises.

The center saw his most extensive action with the Memphis Grizzlies during the 2023-24 season, making 14 starts out of 23 appearances, averaging 7.4 points, 5.8 rebounds, 1.2 blocks, and 1.2 assists in 24.9 minutes. He went undrafted in 2003 out of UAB, appearing for the Suns' Summer League squad before latching on with the New Orleans Pelicans' G League affiliate.

Evbuomwan, 24, has made 45 career appearances over the past two seasons, including eight starts. He last played with the Nets during the 2024-25 season, averaging 9.5 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 2.0 assists in 23.8 minutes off the bench. The 6-foot-8 forward went undrafted out of Princeton in 2023.

The Knicks will enter the preseason with two players signed to two-way contracts. (NBA teams are allowed to carry a maximum of three players on two-way deals.) Kevin McCullar Jr. is expected to return on a two-way deal to fill the final spot, Begley noted.

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Ben Simmons says he is not retiring, still waiting for contract

Ben Simmons is still looking for an NBA contract for this season, and there has been some speculation in the media about whether he really wants to keep playing. Is he ready to step away and retire?

No. That's not me talking, that's Simmons responding to someone asking him about retirement on social media.

However, he may have to wait until training camps open, and very possibly into the season, before a contract is offered. Simmons had some conversations with the Knicks, and while there were reports of an offer, the Knicks themselves pushed back on that. Then New York went out and signed Landry Shamet and Malcom Brogdon, a sign that Simmons is not in the mix.

Simmons also had conversations with Boston, but those did not appear to go far. While Simmons may be seeking a deal worth more than the veteran minimum ($3.2 million), it is hard to imagine any team making him that offer, and the more likely option is that the minimum offers he gets are not fully guaranteed.

Simmons started last season with the Nets, but it was his role in 18 games with the Clippers — coming off the bench, asked to defend and create some shots — that other teams may want him for. Simmons didn't put up counting stats of note with the Clippers (2.9 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 3.1 assists in 16.4 minutes per game) and he was out of Tyron Lue's playoff rotation. However, he did play solid defense and showed he could run the offense for a stretch (he still is not shooting from outside the paint, limiting his impact). Simmons was not great with the Clippers, but he showed he can be good enough in a bench role.

Offers to fill that role are more likely to come once teams get into training camp, and then into the season, when injuries hit, or a team just realizes it needs more guard depth. It may be a while before any offers come Simmons' way.

Just know he is not retiring.

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Fantasy basketball mock draft analysis 2025-26: Is Nikola Jokic the top pick?

The start of the 2025-26 NBA season is approaching, which means it’s time to start preparing for your fantasy basketball drafts. What better place to start than figuring out what to do with the first pick in the draft?

I joined a Yahoo! mock draft and selected from the top spot. Here’s what my team ended up looking like for a nine-cat head-to-head league.

1. Nikola Jokić (DEN - C)

2. Donovan Mitchell (CLE - PG,SG)

3. Kevin Durant (HOU - SF,PF)

4. Derrick White (BOS - PG,SG)

5. Lauri Markkanen (UTA - SF,PF)

6. Jordan Poole (NOP - PG,SG)

7. Andrew Nembhard (IND - PG,SG)

8. Onyeka Okongwu (ATL - C)

9. Brandin Podziemski (GSW - PG,SG)

10. Jaden McDaniels (MIN - SF,PF)

11. Tari Eason (HOU - SF,PF)

12. Kyrie Irving (DAL - PG)

13. Taylor Hendricks (UTA - SF,PF)

I was able to get quite a few players that I’m really excited about this season, like Andrew Nembhard and Brandin Podziemski, but there were multiple players that I missed out on. Let’s go round-by-round and talk about how things went.

Round 1

  1. Nikola Jokić (DEN - C)
  2. Victor Wembanyama (SAS - C)
  3. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (OKC - PG)
  4. Luka Dončić (LAL - PG,SG)
  5. Giannis Antetokounmpo (MIL - PF,C)
  6. Cade Cunningham (DET - PG,SG)
  7. Anthony Davis (DAL - PF,C)
  8. Domantas Sabonis (SAC - C)
  9. Anthony Edwards (MIN - PG,SG)
  10. Trae Young (ATL - PG)
  11. LeBron James (LAL - SF,PF)
  12. Karl-Anthony Towns (NYK - PF,C)

This season, it’s a three-player discussion for the top pick: Jokic, Wemby and SGA. I prefer Jokic, but there really isn’t a wrong decision. All three players have unique statistical outputs that put them on a different level from everyone else in the league. Luka is the clear No. 4 pick. Drafts start with the fifth pick, and I agree with Giannis here.

Round 2

  1. Devin Booker (PHX - PG,SG)
  2. Alperen Sengun (HOU - C)
  3. Stephen Curry (GSW - PG)
  4. James Harden (LAC - PG,SG)
  5. Scottie Barnes (TOR - SG,SF,PF)
  6. Evan Mobley (CLE - PF,C)
  7. Jalen Johnson (ATL - SF,PF)
  8. Jalen Williams (OKC - SF,PF)
  9. Paolo Banchero (ORL - PF,C)
  10. Tyrese Maxey (PHI - PG)
  11. LaMelo Ball (CHA - PG,SG)
  12. Donovan Mitchell (CLE - PG,SG)

I was pleasantly surprised to see Mitchell slide to the end of round two. I would take him closer to the beginning of this round than the end. Banchero was a bit early to me, but he fits in well with Luka Doncic, who was that manager’s pick the round before. It’s cool to see a few of the older players still mixed in here, but it was mostly a youth movement in this round, which I don’t disagree with.

Round 3

  1. Kevin Durant (HOU - SF,PF)
  2. Jaylen Brown (BOS - SG,SF)
  3. De'Aaron Fox (SAS - PG,SG)
  4. Jalen Brunson (NYK - PG)
  5. Josh Giddey (CHI - PG,SG)
  6. Chet Holmgren (OKC - PF,C)
  7. Amen Thompson (HOU - PG,SG,SF)
  8. Bam Adebayo (MIA - PF,C)
  9. Pascal Siakam (IND - PF,C)
  10. Ja Morant (MEM - PG)
  11. Franz Wagner (ORL - SF,PF)
  12. Ivica Zubac (LAC - C)

I have both Durant and Mitchell ranked in the top-20, so I was happy to add KD here. I would’ve also taken both Chet and Amen in round two, so those were nice value picks. I definitely considered both instead of Durant, but I stuck true to my rankings. KD is going to fit in flawlessly with this Rockets team, which means we should get another first-round per-game finish from him.

Round 4

  1. Trey Murphy III (NOP - SF,PF)
  2. Tyler Herro (MIA - PG,SG)
  3. Zion Williamson (NOP - SF,PF)
  4. Cooper Flagg (DAL - SF)
  5. Jaren Jackson Jr. (MEM - PF,C)
  6. Dyson Daniels (ATL - PG,SG,SF)
  7. Desmond Bane (ORL - SG,SF)
  8. Josh Hart (NYK - SG,SF,PF)
  9. Kawhi Leonard (LAC - SF,PF)
  10. Jamal Murray (DEN - PG,SG)
  11. Joel Embiid (PHI - C)
  12. Derrick White (BOS - PG,SG)

While I wasn’t disappointed to get White here, I was hoping Jackson Jr., Daniels or Bane would slide to me. Jackson Jr. is a second-round pick to me, so I was surprised he was still on the board in this round. Bane was an elite addition for the Magic, and I don’t think he’s going to see a massive drop in production. As for White, he should have a high-usage season in Boston, which isn’t the best role for him, in my opinion. Still, there should be a production bump, though it may cost him some efficiency.

Round 5

  1. Lauri Markkanen (UTA - SF,PF)
  2. Michael Porter Jr. (BKN - SF,PF)
  3. Kristaps Porziņģis (ATL - PF,C)
  4. Deni Avdija (POR - SF,PF)
  5. Darius Garland (CLE - PG)
  6. Jimmy Butler III (GSW - SF,PF)
  7. Walker Kessler (UTA - C)
  8. Nikola Vučević (CHI - C)
  9. Miles Bridges (CHA - SF,PF)
  10. Jarrett Allen (CLE - C)
  11. Zach LaVine (SAC - PG,SG)
  12. Brandon Miller (CHA - SF,PF)

If there is a player I have locked in as a bounce-back candidate, it's Markkanen. Last season was a struggle for him, but there are many reasons why head coach Will Hardy will prioritize Markkanen on offense and make sure to put him in positions to succeed. I thought it was interesting to see Garland fall to 53. I have him ranked as a fourth-rounder and should’ve selected him with one of my two picks here. He’s expected to miss the start of the season with a toe injury, which isn’t ideal, but he’s too talented to fall further than this.

Round 6

  1. Jalen Duren (DET - C)
  2. Rudy Gobert (MIN - C)
  3. DeMar DeRozan (SAC - SF)
  4. Jalen Green (PHX - PG,SG)
  5. Myles Turner (MIL - C)
  6. Coby White (CHI - PG,SG)
  7. Austin Reaves (LAL - PG,SG)
  8. OG Anunoby (NYK - SF,PF)
  9. Paul George (PHI - SG,SF,PF)
  10. Cam Thomas (BKN - SG,SF)
  11. Julius Randle (MIN - PF,C)
  12. Jordan Poole (NOP - PG,SG)

Looking back, I also have Poole ranked ahead of Markkanen as a fourth-rounder, so I should’ve selected him earlier. With that being said, I was thrilled to get him here. He should be in for a big season for New Orleans, a team without its first-round pick. Poole should see a career-high in minutes per game and could certainly have his best season as a pro.

Round 7

  1. Andrew Nembhard (IND - PG,SG)
  2. Deandre Ayton (LAL - C)
  3. RJ Barrett (TOR - SF,PF)
  4. Kel'el Ware (MIA - PF,C)
  5. Jakob Poeltl (TOR - C)
  6. Alex Sarr (WAS - C)
  7. Immanuel Quickley (TOR - PG,SG)
  8. Brandon Ingram (TOR - SG,SF,PF)
  9. Mark Williams (PHX - C)
  10. Anfernee Simons (BOS - PG,SG)
  11. Andrew Wiggins (MIA - SG,SF)
  12. Cameron Johnson (DEN - SF,PF)

After getting Poole at value in the last round, reaching for Nembhard was worth it to me. Whenever TyreseHaliburton has missed time, Nembhard has thrived as a starting point guard. He won’t match Haliburton’s production this season, but he should be in for a big year. The difference is that he won’t just be a fill-in for Haliburton; the offense will be designed for him to have him as the lead man.

Round 8

  1. Bennedict Mathurin (IND - SG,SF)
  2. Fred VanVleet (HOU - PG)
  3. Donovan Clingan (POR - C)
  4. Ausar Thompson (DET - SF,PF)
  5. Mikal Bridges (NYK - SF,PF)
  6. Naz Reid (MIN - PF,C)
  7. Payton Pritchard (BOS - PG)
  8. Norman Powell (MIA - SG,SF)
  9. Isaiah Hartenstein (OKC - C)
  10. John Collins (LAC - PF,C)
  11. Devin Vassell (SAS - SG,SF)
  12. Onyeka Okongwu (ATL - C)

There were quite a few players that went in this round that I was disappointed to see taken before I had the chance to draft, Clingan and Thompson being the main ones. However, I was still happy with Okongwu, who I think will play a large role, regardless of whether he’s the starter. If the Hawks didn’t add Kristaps Porzingis, Okongwu would be selected much earlier, and I don’t think Porzingis is guaranteed to be the starter over Okongwu, though both should play 28-30 minutes per game regardless.

Round 9

  1. Brandin Podziemski (GSW - PG,SG)
  2. Keegan Murray (SAC - SF,PF)
  3. Malik Monk (SAC - SG)
  4. Zach Edey (MEM - C)
  5. CJ McCollum (WAS - PG,SG)
  6. Matas Buzelis (CHI - SF,PF)
  7. Jalen Suggs (ORL - PG)
  8. D'Angelo Russell (DAL - PG)
  9. Nic Claxton (BKN - C)
  10. Shaedon Sharpe (POR - SG,SF)
  11. Aaron Gordon (DEN - PF,C)
  12. Bradley Beal (LAC - SG,SF)

There aren’t many guards that rebound better than Podziemski, and he was a top-75 player in nine-cat leagues after the Warriors traded for JimmyButler. The Warriors are still waiting on the Jonathan Kuminga situation to be resolved, but Podz is locked in as a starter. Edey is another player I was interested in. The Grizzlies should do a better job of putting him in situations to succeed in year two.

Round 10

  1. Keyonte George (UTA - PG,SG)
  2. Stephon Castle (SAS - PG,SG)
  3. Tobias Harris (DET - PF)
  4. Tre Johnson (WAS - SG)
  5. Bobby Portis (MIL - PF,C)
  6. Draymond Green (GSW - PF,C)
  7. Jaden Ivey (DET - PG,SG)
  8. Daniel Gafford (DAL - C)
  9. Dereck Lively II (DAL - C)
  10. Jeremy Sochan (SAS - PF,C)
  11. Christian Braun (DEN - SG,SF)
  12. Jaden McDaniels (MIN - SF,PF)

I was really hoping to get Braun here, but I’m happy with McDaniels, who is coming off his best season as a pro. He played 82 games and averaged career-highs in points, rebounds and steals. He finished just outside the top-75 in nine-cat leagues, making him a nice value pick in round 10. Braun finished just outside the top-50 last year, and while the additions of Bruce Brown and Tim Hardaway Jr. may cut into his role, it won’t be enough for him to deserve falling this far down the board.

Round 11

  1. Tari Eason (HOU - SF,PF)
  2. Toumani Camara (POR - SF,PF)
  3. De'Andre Hunter (CLE - SF,PF)
  4. Kevin Porter Jr. (MIL - PG,SG)
  5. Scoot Henderson (POR - PG)
  6. Mitchell Robinson (NYK - C)
  7. Santi Aldama (MEM - PF,C)
  8. Collin Sexton (CHA - PG,SG)
  9. Ace Bailey (UTA - SF)
  10. Jrue Holiday (POR - PG,SG)
  11. Chris Paul (LAC - PG)
  12. Jabari Smith Jr. (HOU - PF,C)

Perhaps others are scared off by the addition of Kevin Durant, but not me. Eason’s competition for minutes will be with Jabari Smith Jr., and he was a part-time starter down the stretch last year. Eason should play a significant role and has a fantasy-friendly skillset, making him worth the late-round swing.

Round 12

  1. Ayo Dosunmu (CHI - SG,SF)
  2. P.J. Washington (DAL - SF,PF)
  3. Zaccharie Risacher (ATL - SF,PF)
  4. Kon Knueppel (CHA - SF)
  5. Dejounte Murray (NOP - PG,SG)
  6. Donte DiVincenzo (MIN - PG,SG)
  7. VJ Edgecombe (PHI - SG)
  8. Jonathan Kuminga (GSW - SF,PF)
  9. Dylan Harper (SAS - SG)
  10. Jerami Grant (POR - SF,PF)
  11. Al Horford (BOS - PF,C)
  12. Kyrie Irving (DAL - PG)

I fully expect Kyrie to go earlier in real drafts, so I was happy to nab him here and immediately slot him into my IL slot. He is currently expected to return from his ACL tear in January or February, so I won’t get any use out of him for a while. However, he’s talented enough to be worth the wait.

Round 13

  1. Taylor Hendricks (UTA - SF,PF)
  2. Nickeil Alexander-Walker (ATL - SG,SF)
  3. Bilal Coulibaly (WAS - SG,SF)
  4. Alex Caruso (OKC - SG,SF)
  5. Klay Thompson (DAL - SG,SF)
  6. Caris LeVert (DET - SG,SF)
  7. Sam Hauser (BOS - SF,PF)
  8. Brook Lopez (LAC - C)
  9. Jeremiah Fears (NOP - PG)
  10. Trayce Jackson-Davis (GSW - C)
  11. Jordan Clarkson (NYK - PG,SG)
  12. Rui Hachimura (LAL - SF,PF)

Hendricks was worth a late-round pick last season, and he’s absolutely worth one this year. The offense is questionable, but there isn’t a better perimeter defender in Utah. He has a good case to start, but even if he doesn’t, they won’t be able to compete without him playing a significant role. He has top-100 upside, which is what you’re looking for with your last few picks.

Be sure to check back for plenty more preseason content over the next month!

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'On the Bench' — a dedicated analyst for each team seated courtside — part of Peacock NBA Monday games

We've all watched NBA games and thought, "I wonder what they're thinking and saying on the bench?"

NBC is going to answer that question in its 23 exclusive Peacock NBA Monday games: Rather than having one analyst seated next to the play-by-play announcer, each team will have a dedicated analyst who has attended shootarounds, spoken to coaches and players before the game, then will be seated courtside with the team during the game. The goal is to provide insights that nobody else has, using a unique format.

"Never before has a game featured an analyst dedicated exclusively to each team with such unparalleled access," said Sam Flood, Executive Producer, NBC Sports. "Each analyst will be dedicated to telling the story of the game through the lens of their team. At the same time, we will respect the sanctity of the inside information our analysts are able to hear but will always strive to give the audience unique insights that only this type of access can provide."

The first chance to see "On the Bench" will be Monday, Oct. 27, on Peacock, when Donovan Mitchell and the Cleveland Cavaliers visit Cade Cunningham and the Detroit Pistons (7 p.m. ET on Peacock). Noah Eagle will call the play-by-play action with Robbie Hummel serving as the Pistons' dedicated reporter, while Austin Rivers will be immersed with the Cavaliers.

Those are not the only innovations coming to Peacock for NBA games.

"Peacock Performance View," a viewing mode providing fans with on-screen stats and data, and "Peacock ScoreCard," a first-of-its-kind, real-time streaming experience that is like "bingo meets fantasy sports," will be available on TV and mobile, alongside existing features such as Can't Miss Highlights on mobile and Catch Up with Key Plays. "Courtside Live," a new feature coming in the second half of the season, will allow fans to watch the game through unique insider angles.

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Luka Doncic talks trade — 'I didn't know how to react' — and conditioning push this summer

Any questions about just how impactful "skinny" Luka Doncic can be were dispelled during EuroBasket, when he led the tournament in scoring at 34.7 points a game, added 8.7 rebounds and 7.1 assists, and lifted Slovenia to the quarterfinals.

It's hard not to connect this version of Doncic back to the shocking trade from last February when the Dallas Mavericks traded him to the Los Angeles Lakers for a trade package focused around Anthony Davis. Doncic again discussed his shock at the trade, speaking in the Wall Street Journal Magazine for its Fall Men’s Issue.

"I didn't know how to react, how to act, what to say," Doncic tells me. "It was a lot of shock. I felt Dallas was my home. I had many friends there. The fans always supported me. I didn't want to upset Dallas fans. And I didn't want to upset Laker fans."

Like the rest of us, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver connected the dots from the trade to Doncic's conditioning push.

"Putting aside the merits of the trade, you could argue that it was a bit of a kick in the a** to Luka," says Adam Silver... "He didn't try to sugarcoat this trade."
That kick in the a** included the post-trade spin out of Dallas, leaked concerns about Doncic's health and conditioning. That sparked Doncic's offseason conditioning program, one that went viral this offseason — and not on accident as Doncic's team works to control the narrative around him.

"For the first time, I stopped playing basketball for a month," he says. He says this as if he was deprived of oxygen. Out went the jump shots. In came the resistance bands, dead lifts, dumbbells and agility drills, plus a private chef who got a sweet break from 8 p.m. until noon the next day, as Doncic intermittently fasted. "Pure training and fitness," Doncic says. "And padel tennis."

The result of all that work was evident at EuroBasket, and the Lakers are looking forward to it carrying over into the season. Doncic and LeBron James form one of the best, highest IQ duos in the NBA, but how far that (and their supporting cast) can get them in a ridiculously deep Western Conference is up for debate heading into the season.

LeBron praises Doncic in the Wall Street Journal article, which doesn't break any new ground but does show why this could be an MVP-level season for Doncic in Los Angeles.

Doncic and the Lakers are part of the second game of the NBA Tip-Off opening night on NBC and Peacock on Oct. 21. The Lakers will take on the Golden State Warriors, and while a lot of eyes will be on another LeBron/Stephen Curry showdown, Doncic may be the guy nobody can take their eyes off of.

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Jonathan Kuminga would agree to Warriors' contract if change is made, per agent

Jonathan Kuminga would agree to Warriors' contract if change is made, per agent originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

It appears there is just one hurdle remaining in the Warriors’ Jonathan Kuminga contract saga.

Golden State has negotiated with its prized restricted free agent for months, and with Kuminga still unsigned midway through September, the sides could strike a deal if one change is made to the Warriors’ latest offer.

ESPN’s Anthony Slater joined “NBA Today” on Tuesday, where he shared what Kuminga’s agent, Aaron Turner, told him about the Warriors’ latest contract offer, which Slater and Shams Charania reported Monday is for three years and $75.2 million.

“I actually talked to Aaron Turner, Jonathan Kuminga’s agent, this morning, and the messaging they’re adopting this week is ‘Turn the [team option] to a [player option’ and it’s done,” Slater said. “And that messaging is generally saying, if it’s a team option on [that deal], if that’s suddenly a player option, not only will Jonathan Kuminga sign it, they’re saying, but he will be completely bought in on the mission they’re asking of him.

“Which is, using Turner’s messaging, that is to get Steph Curry and Draymond Green a fifth ring, [and] Jimmy Butler his first ring.”

NBC Sports Bay Area’s Dalton Johnson confirmed Kuminga and Turner’s willingness to take the Warriors’ offer if the team option is changed to a player option.

The Warriors, as ESPN reported Monday, have not budged in their desire to maintain a team option in the deal, but also have offered Kuminga a three-year, $54 million fully guaranteed non-team-option contract as well.

However, if Golden State were to give Kuminga the player option he desires in their three-year, $75.2 million offer, it could go a long way toward strengthening the relationship between the young forward and the organization for the 2025-26 NBA season and beyond.

“That’s an understanding of him that it’s a show of goodwill if they set it to a player option, for what they’re calling ‘years of confusion’ over his role and a willingness to suppress some of his personal ambitions, which are obviously very much a part of the holdup here, accept what probably is going to be a bench role, what’s probably going to be fluctuating minutes and accepting what will very likely be a tradable contract,” Slater added.

It’s unclear if the Warriors will budge, but if they do, a deal could be imminent.

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Jonathan Kuminga ‘absolutely miserable' with Warriors, per ESPN's Tim MacMahon

Jonathan Kuminga ‘absolutely miserable' with Warriors, per ESPN's Tim MacMahon originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

A divorce between Jonathan Kuminga and the Warriors seems inevitable, but when that could be now has become the question.

Despite Golden State reportedly upping its contract offer to Kuminga to three years and $75.2 million with a team option for the third season, ESPN’s Tim MacMahon believes it’s not all about the money to the 22-year-old forward.

“You’re making this about the money. He’s miserable. he is absolutely miserable,” MacMahon said Tuesday on ESPN’s “The Hoop Collective” podcast. “It’s a bad situation. It’s a breakup that needs to happen sooner than later. It is a terrible situation for him. He was getting DNP-CDs in the playoffs.

“The coach doesn’t want him. The coach doesn’t believe in him. The coach has publicly said over and over that he does not fit with the core of this team.”

Kuminga registered DNPs in Golden State’s most important contests to conclude the 2024-25 regular season and into the postseason.

This after an already up-and-down four-year career with the Warriors after being selected by the team No. 7 overall in the 2021 NBA Draft. Despite showing flashes of his potential at times, Kuminga never maintained a consistent role in coach Steve Kerr’s rotation.

But when the Warriors needed him most — in their second-round playoff series against the Minnesota Timberwolves with an injured Steph Curry sidelined — Kuminga stepped up and showed out for Golden State, although it wasn’t enough to advance to the Western Conference finals.

Kuminga seemingly used that impressive postseason performance to his advantage as he entered restricted free agency this offseason, seeking a larger role and a contract that gives him stability with an organization.

But with training camp two weeks away, the situation remains unresolved.

How much longer will Kuminga remain “miserable”? Hopefully, for the sake of all parties involved, not long.

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Kings unveil new purple-infused City Edition uniforms for 2025-26 NBA season

Kings unveil new purple-infused City Edition uniforms for 2025-26 NBA season originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

Purple is so back.

To celebrate “916 Day,” the Kings on Tuesday unveiled their City Edition uniforms for the upcoming 2025-26 NBA season.

The purple-infused jerseys are a modern remix of the 2022-23 gray design that implements the Kings’ beloved victory beam.

“Sacramento” is inscribed across the chest in refreshed lettering, paired with a new palette of deep ink purple and bright violet accents — shades that never have been used in franchise history.

Along the side panels of the jersey and shorts read “Sacramento Proud” repeatedly, which per a press release from the team, is a reminder that the City Editions are more than a uniform, but also “a celebration of identity and belonging.”

Perhaps the cherry on top is the phrase, “We’re going to keep the team in Sacramento,” at the bottom right corner of the jersey in small text but with a large, powerful meaning that is a nod to a nearly decade-long community-led effort to keep the Kings in California’s capital after real threats of relocation.

The Kings will debut these new threads on Wednesday, Nov. 12, when they host the Atlanta Hawks at Golden 1 Center on their complementary court. They will wear the uniforms 10 times at home and nine times on the road.

Sacramento opens the 2025-26 regular season on the road on Oct. 22 against the Phoenix Suns at PHX Arena.

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Warriors reportedly want ‘maximum' salary cap flexibility for 2027 offseason

Warriors reportedly want ‘maximum' salary cap flexibility for 2027 offseason originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

The Warriors have their eyes on both the present and the future, and for good reason.

Golden State, with its veteran core of Steph Curry, Jimmy Butler and Draymond Green, has the pieces to potentially compete for another championship in the 2025-26 NBA season. Still, that very core also has a combined age of 36, which means the dynastic franchise has to start preparing for a very different-looking future.

And as The Athletic’s Sam Amick reported in a story on Tuesday, it appears the Warriors already have.

“[The Warriors] want to maintain maximum flexibility for that 2027 summer (as it stands, they only have [Moses] Moody’s $13.4 million and [Buddy] Hield’s $10 million player option on the books by then),” Amick wrote. “The Warriors, who are well aware that Milwaukee’s Giannis Antetokounmpo and Denver’s Nikola Jokić both have player options for the 2027-28 season, are hardly alone on this star-hunting front.

“High-profile teams like the Lakers and Clippers have sent similar signals in recent months.”

The 2027 offseason is a pivotal one for Golden State, as Curry, Butler and Green’s contracts all are set to expire that summer or, in Green’s case, potentially in 2026 if he were to decline his player option for the 2026-27 season.

As Amick mentioned, the Warriors currently only have two players (Moody, Hield) under contract for the 2027-28 season, and barring moves in the near future, could have an abundance of cap space to pursue, potentially, superstars like Antetokounmpo and Jokić, should they become available.

It’s no secret how the Warriors feel about Antetokounmpo, who they reportedly have been interested in potentially acquiring before, but regardless of whether he or Jokić become available that summer, Golden State should have enough flexibility to pursue whoever they want.

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What reportedly could change Warriors' mind on Kings' Jonathan Kuminga trade

What reportedly could change Warriors' mind on Kings' Jonathan Kuminga trade originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

The most likely outcome regarding Jonathan Kuminga’s restricted free-agency saga remains a return to the Warriors.

However, there could be a pathway that leads Kuminga 80 miles northeast to Golden State’s NorCal neighbors in Sacramento. The Warriors earlier this offseason shut down sign-and-trade talks with both the Kings and Phoenix Suns, per multiple reports, who showed the most interest in the 22-year-old wing after not being moved by any of their offers.

But as The Athletic’s Sam Amick reported in a column published Tuesday, one tweak to Sacramento’s offer could have moved the needle for Golden State.

“As it relates to the Kings, who have offered veteran guard Malik Monk and a protected 2030 first-round pick to the Warriors while agreeing to give Kuminga a three-year, $63 million deal, their insistence on including protections on the first-rounder remains the main obstacle to a possible deal, Amick wrote. “If the protections were dropped completely, there are some stakeholders who believe the Warriors would likely change their stance.”

Amick added, citing team sources, that the Kings are under the impression that Kuminga wants to play for them.

Kuminga met with Sacramento’s brass in late July, per ESPN’s Anthony Slater, and had a good discussion with general manager Scott Perry, assistant GM B.J. Armstrong and coach Doug Christie. Kuminga was intrigued by the idea of a larger role, something not feasible with Golden State, and was “open-minded” to the idea of joining the Kings.

As Amick notes, another roadblock of a potential Kuminga-to-the-Kings deal is the fact that the Warriors also would likely have to trade Moses Moody or Buddy Hield to stay under the first apron of the luxury tax.

But there’s more.

Monk’s four-year, $78 million contract that he signed with Sacramento runs through the 2027-28 season, when he has a player option of $21.5 million. But the Warriors have been adamant about having financial flexibility during that 2027 summer to maintain the ability to potentially seek big-name superstars such as Giannis Antetokounmpo and Nikola Jokić, who both have player options entering the 2027-28 season.

As it stands, the most likely outcome is Kuminga signs the Warriors’ one-year $7.9 million qualifying offer before the soon approaching Oct. 1 deadline.

But as we’ve come to learn this offseason, nothing is off the table.

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What reportedly could change Warriors' mind on Kings' Jonathan Kuminga trade

What reportedly could change Warriors' mind on Kings' Jonathan Kuminga trade originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

The most likely outcome regarding Jonathan Kuminga’s restricted free-agency saga remains a return to the Warriors.

However, there could be a pathway that leads Kuminga 80 miles northeast to Golden State’s NorCal neighbors in Sacramento. The Warriors earlier this offseason shut down sign-and-trade talks with both the Kings and Phoenix Suns, per multiple reports, who showed the most interest in the 22-year-old wing after not being moved by any of their offers.

But as The Athletic’s Sam Amick reported in a column published Tuesday, one tweak to Sacramento’s offer could have moved the needle for Golden State.

“As it relates to the Kings, who have offered veteran guard Malik Monk and a protected 2030 first-round pick to the Warriors while agreeing to give Kuminga a three-year, $63 million deal, their insistence on including protections on the first-rounder remains the main obstacle to a possible deal, Amick wrote. “If the protections were dropped completely, there are some stakeholders who believe the Warriors would likely change their stance.”

Amick added, citing team sources, that the Kings are under the impression that Kuminga wants to play for them.

Kuminga met with Sacramento’s brass in late July, per ESPN’s Anthony Slater, and had a good discussion with general manager Scott Perry, assistant GM B.J. Armstrong and coach Doug Christie. Kuminga was intrigued by the idea of a larger role, something not feasible with Golden State, and was “open-minded” to the idea of joining the Kings.

As Amick notes, another roadblock of a potential Kuminga-to-the-Kings deal is the fact that the Warriors also likely would have to trade Moses Moody or Buddy Hield to stay under the first apron of the luxury tax.

But there’s more.

Monk’s four-year, $78 million contract that he signed with Sacramento runs through the 2027-28 season, when he has a player option of $21.5 million. But the Warriors have been adamant about having financial flexibility during that 2027 summer to maintain the ability to potentially seek big-name superstars such as Giannis Antetokounmpo and Nikola Jokić, who both have player options entering the 2027-28 season.

As it stands, the most likely outcome is Kuminga signs the Warriors’ one-year $7.9 million qualifying offer before the soon approaching Oct. 1 deadline.

But as we’ve come to learn this offseason, nothing is off the table.

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Ramp to Camp: What's one thing you want to see from D-White this season?

Ramp to Camp: What's one thing you want to see from D-White this season? originally appeared on NBC Sports Boston

It’s been quite a run for Derrick White since he arrived in Boston.

An NBA title and a gold medal. All-Defense status and a lucrative long-term contract extension. It feels a little bit greedy to wonder what more he can do to help the Celtics when his mere presence seems to elevate everyone around him.

For Day 12 of our Ramp to Camp series, and continuing our “What’s Next?” week for the key members of the 2025-26 Celtics, we’re putting the spotlight on White.

While it feels like White is one to shun individual honors, it’s pretty obvious that the only major honor that has eluded him in recent seasons has been an All-Star nod. Some poorly-timed cold streaks have conspired against him — along with the fact that Boston’s roster has been overflowing with talent — but it sure feels like there will be an opportunity to earn that All-Star selection this season.

The absence of a rehabbing Jayson Tatum to start the season combined with a talent drain cased by the second apron is going to allow White even more freedom on the offensive end. How might White’s production spike?

You probably need only rewind to March 5, when the Celtics played the Blazers without both Tatum and Jaylen Brown. White erupted for 41 points on 14-of-26 shooting while making nine 3-pointers (while added four “stocks” too). He combined with Payton Pritchard for the first 40/40 game in Celtics history.

In eight regular-season games played without Tatum last season, White averaged 20.8 points, 5.8 assists, and 3.5 rebounds per game. The Celtics were +75 in his 274 Tatum-less minutes. That feels like the sort of stat line that would get the attention of All-Star voters.

In 16 regular-season games without Brown last season, White was at 17.9 points, 5.2 assists, and 4.7 rebounds. The Celtics were +143 in 555 minutes of floor time. The theme: White was more than capable of elevating when the Celtics were without one of their stars.

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An All-Star nod would be a reflection of White’s ability to help keep this team afloat while navigating Tatum’s absence. If the Celtics outkick outsiders’ tempered expectations, then core members like White could be rewarded with trips to Los Angeles.

Much like with Brown elevating to the 1A role, we’re intrigued to see how White fares in a brighter spotlight. Teams will game-plan more to take away those clean 3-point looks, but White is so good at simply making the right play.

Will his scoring bump up to that 20-point range? Will his assist numbers spike to career-high levels? We’re intrigued to see how his efficiency fares with more usage and whether he can keep the turnovers down.

You know the defense is going to be there. He’s averaged better than a block per game in each of the past two seasons while establishing himself as the best — and craftiest — shot-blocking guard in the league. 

We’re also interested to see how White’s leadership grows. Entering Year 9 at age 31, he has the resume to be more vocal if he desires, even if he typically leads by example with his smart play. White can help steer this ship through some rocky waters as younger players try to find their identities on a new-look roster.

Everyone in Boston knows White’s value. An All-Star nod would be an acknowledgment that the rest of the league knows, too.

Let’s check in with our panel on the one thing they want to see from White this season:

Darren Hartwell, Managing Editor

Assertiveness. It took almost two seasons for the Celtics to convince White to shoot whenever he had an open look, and he blossomed into Boston’s third-best scorer as a result.

With Tatum out, he’s now the second-best scorer and will be asked to shoulder an even greater offensive load. Beyond taking open shots, it’d be great to see White look to create his own offense more frequently.

Michael Hurley, Web Producer

Keep being Derrick White. Maybe that sounds like an unserious response, but if I’m looking at Derrick White, I don’t want him to change a thing about his game. Good player. Stay that way.

Sean McGuire, Web Producer

I’d like to see White turn into a high-volume scorer behind Jaylen Brown. He’s been a consistent scorer, having averaged 16.4 points per game during a career season in 2024-25. That’s what was needed from him then, but it’s not what is needed now.

White had 17 games with 20 points or more but just four with 25-plus points and two of 30-plus. Given Boston will be without three of the team’s top six scorers from last season (Tatum, Kristaps Porzingis and Jrue Holiday) White will need to pack a bigger punch in that department. 

Josh Canu, Media Editor

Be an All-Star. Derrick White is the No. 2 option for the Celtics this season. He has shown that when one of the Jays is out, he can pick up the slack. Now he has to do it every night.

I want to see if White is able to maintain his defensive impact while absorbing a bigger offensive role. If he finds that balance, he will be an All-Star this season.

Max Lederman, Content Producer

I want to see White average 22-plus points per game this season. He has the ability, but can he consistently score for the C’s without any diminishing returns on the defensive end?

Adam Hart, EP, Content Strategy

I’d like to see him avoid a joyless cold streak. It’s sad to know he’s not having a blast out on the court.