Warriors assistants Terry Stotts, Jerry Stackhouse won't return next season

The Golden State Warriors were able to retain head coach Steve Kerr, inking him to a multi-year deal, but his top assistants won't be back in the Bay Area next season.

Terry Stotts and Jerry Stackhouse will leave the Warriors sideline after their contracts expire and they won't be renewed, according to ESPN's Anthony Slater.

Stotts is looking to get back to an NBA head coaching opportunity and wanted to throw his name in the candidacy pool, ESPN reported. Stotts' NBA coaching career spans more than three decades. He took his first head coaching job in the NBA in 2002 with the Atlanta Hawks. His most successful stint came with the Portland Trail Blazers from 2012 to 2021, where he coached the team to consecutive playoff appearances, including a Western Conference finals run in 2019.

Stotts joined Golden State in 2024 for his second stint with the team. His first tenure as Warriors assistant came in the 2004-05 season under head coach Mike Montgomery.

"I enjoyed my time with Steve, the staff and players," Stotts told ESPN. "My two years there were fulfilling. Nothing but well-wishes."

Stackhouse joined the Warriors as an assistant with Stotts in 2024. Before agreeing to join Golden State, Stackhouse coached six seasons at Vanderbilt. He was named 2023 SEC Coach of the Year for leading the Commodores to a 22-15 record. He was fired after the following season after a lackluster year.

ESPN reported that Stackhouse, too, is searching for a head coaching opportunity.

Those two weren't the only assistants to cut ties with Golden State. Prior to the end of the season, Chris DeMarco left in January to become head coach of the New York Liberty, moving up Kris Weems in the coaching hierarchy.

Golden State will continue its coaching search to fill the sideline alongside Kerr.

One candidate, ESPN reported, is Willie Green, who began his coaching career with the Warriors in 2016 as an assistant. He's since went on to become an assistant for the Phoenix Suns and head coach for the New Orleans Pelicans from 2021 to 2025.

Warriors assistant coaching candidates

When there were discussions about whether Kerr would return, various names came up as to who might succeed him. Well, now that Golden State has retained him, and instead lost their assistants, a few other coaching positions must be filled.

If these were some of the candidates to take Kerr's job, why shouldn't some names be mentioned to coach alongside him? Here are some names to keep in mind as the Warriors search to fill their assistant coaching vacancies:

Andre Iguodala

Iguodala is a former Warrior who won four championships with the franchise and was named the 2015 Finals MVP. He's been an All-Star and played a veteran role mentoring young guys, especially during the Warriors' 2022 championship run, which birthed an iconic meme during the NBA Finals in a teaching moment with Andrew Wiggins.

Is Jalen Duren a max player? Pistons have tough offseason questions coming with him, Ausar Thompson.

Last offseason, when the Pistons and Jalen Duren discussed a contract extension, he thought they underestimated his value, and the result was that the sides did not agree to a new deal. Then Duren went out this season and showed them what he was worth: 19.5 points a game on 65% shooting, plus 10.5 rebounds while playing elite defense (he was on some Defensive Player of the Year ballots). He is almost certainly going to be an All-NBA player. That led to the expectation Durent had earned a max contract extension this summer, a five-year deal worth at least $239 million, and up to $287 million with that All-NBA nod.

Then the playoffs started.

Duren has struggled this postseason, averaging 10.1 points and 8.3 rebounds per game when the team needs him most, while his lack of outside shooting has helped clog up the Pistons' offense at times. Things got so bad that coach J.B. Bickerstaff played Paul Reed over Duren during the fourth quarter and overtime of a critical Game 5.

Which begs the question, is Duren still worth a max contract? Here is what one front office executive told Brian Windhorst of ESPN:

"He's not a max player, but they're probably going to have to give him the max," an East executive said of Duren. "Because now [cap space] teams like Chicago or Brooklyn might see him as someone they could get with a max offer sheet and Detroit will have to match.

"With the new apron rules, it might come back to bite [the Pistons], and it's just another example of how the CBA crushes team building."

The Pistons need to re-sign both Duren and Ausar Thompson this offseason, two key defenders and part of the culture built in Detroit, but also two non-shooters who have led to spacing problems in the playoffs as Orlando and then Cleveland have thrown multiple defenders at Cade Cunningham and dared anyone else to beat them. If both get huge deals (Thompson will likely get a contract similar to the $25 million a season that Dyson Daniels agreed to in Atlanta), the Pistons lose flexibility to add another shot creator and/or more shooting the team needs.

Can the Pistons get Duren to take the 25% max ($239 million over five years) and not more? If the Pistons try to get him to take less than that, could a team with cap space in need of a center — Chicago and the Los Angeles Lakers both check those boxes — swoop in and try to poach him (Detroit has the right to match any offer).

As the executive quoted by Windhorst suggests, one of the consequences of the tax aprons in the CBA is that teams CANNOT miss on max contracts, or they quickly become anchors. Duren has earned the right for the Pistons to back the Brinks truck up to his home, he deserves the massive contract coming. How massive, and can he continue to play at this level, are the questions. And there are no easy answers.

Pistons vs. Cavs Discussion: Game Time, TV, Odds, and More

May 13, 2026; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham (2) celebrates in the second half against the Cleveland Cavaliers during game five of the second round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images | Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images

They say that in a tense situation, you should open with a joke. Here is a joke. There are no players on the injury report for the Detroit Pistons, meaning everyone is available to play. It’s just a shame that the only thing that brings everyone back together is a funeral.

End of joke.

Anyway, the Detroit Pistons are facing elimination on the road against the Cleveland Cavaliers, who have not lost a game in Rocket Arena during these playoffs. The Pistons have been here before. They trailed the Orlando Magic 3-1 and triumphed. What kind of performance will we see tonight? Hopefully one like in Game 1 of this series, where it was clear that Detroit was the better team. Will we get that tonight? Not based on the last three games. But it’s basketball. Anything can happen.

Game Vitals

When: 7 p.m. ET
Where: Rocket Arena, Cleveland, Ohio
Watch: Prime Video
Odds: Pistons +3.5

Projected Lineups

Detroit Pistons (2-3)

Cade Cunningham, Duncan Robinson, Ausar Thompson, Tobias Harris, Jalen Duren

Cleveland Cavaliers (3-2)

James Harden, Donovan Mitchell, Dean Wade, Evan Mobley, Jarrett Allen

Cavs vs. Pistons Game 6 open gamethread

DETROIT, MICHIGAN - MAY 13: Max Strus #2 of the Cleveland Cavaliers walks off the court after defeating the Detroit Pistons in overtime in Game Five of the Second Round of the NBA Eastern Conference Playoffs at Little Caesars Arena on May 13, 2026 in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Cleveland Cavaliers will try to punch their ticket to the Eastern Conference Finals tonight.

Share your thoughts as the game unfolds. If you aren’t a member of the community, sign up so you can talk to your fellow Cavalier fans and make your voice heard!

Go Cavs!

Cavs have a secret button for Game 6; when do they press it?

DETROIT, MI - MAY 13: Max Strus #2 of the Cleveland Cavaliers plays defense on Cade Cunningham #2 of the Detroit Pistons during Round Two Game Five of the 2026 NBA Playoffs on May 13, 2026 at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Brian Sevald/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

The Cleveland Cavaliers have reached a point in their second-round series with the Detroit Pistons where all the cards are already on the table. It’s unlikely either team will do anything overly shocking in Game 6. It will be more of the same, with minor tweaks and varying execution.

One trick the Cavs have up their sleeves, however, is when and where they choose to trap Cade Cunningham.

Cunningham might carry the heaviest individual load in the league. Detroit’s success on offense relies almost entirely on his shoulders. That’s why his usage is through the roof, with Cunningham attempting the most field goals per game in the playoffs at 21.6.

This can lead to great things. Cunningham was lights out for most of Game 5, scoring 39 points and pushing his team to the brink of a 3-2 lead. But something changed in the final minutes, and the toll of everything Cade had carried up to that point was eventually paid.

The Cavs began sending two to the ball. Cunnigham saw multiple defenders in front of him, with pressure on him as soon as he crossed halfcourt. This forced Cunningham to give up the rock and work harder to get open. That’s a lot to ask of someone who played 48 minutes in Game 5. The results speak for themselves.

Cunnigham struggled against the trap. He scored just 2 points in the final 10 minutes of regulation and overtime, shooting 1-4 and turning it over at a key point of the game. Max Strus, who stole Cunningham’s inbound pass in the fourth quarter of Game 3, once again capitalized on Cunningham’s exhaustion by ripping him in the backcourt during overtime of Game 5.

When you’re tired, you make mistakes. The Cavs waited until the perfect moment to ramp up the pressure on Cunningham. The question is, can they find the same luck tonight?

“It’s a feel,” said Kenny Atkinson. “Do you do it after a timeout? You do it to throw them off balance, so do you do it on the first play? To end the game? Obviously, you’ve got to know when to, or not to, go with it.”

Doubling a player like Cunningham comes with risks. You’re giftwrapping the Pistons’ offense a numbers advantage by putting two on the ball. You can get burned in a hurry if Detroit’s role players convert on those scenarios.

That’s why it’s important to deploy this strategy at the right time. Do it too early, and you risk allowing the Pistons to find a rhythym. Do it too late, and well, you’re too late. Mixing up the coverage and keeping Cunningham on his toes is all you can do.

“He’s a great player, we can’t give him one look,” said Aktinson. “So we’re gonna keep mixing it up, and there have been games this series where we didn’t double-team, so it’s a feel.”

The Cavs have an opportunity to eliminate the 60-win Pistons and advance to the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time since 2018. To do so, they’ll have to activate their best defensive strategy at the right moment and deliver the knockout blow.

NBA Playoff Friday discussion

May 13, 2026; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Pistons guard Daniss Jenkins (24) dribbles defended by Cleveland Cavaliers guard James Harden (1) in the second half during game five of the second round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images | Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images

Here are the NBA playoff games for Friday, May 15, 2026:

  • Los Angeles Lakers at Oklahoma City Thunder — 7 p.m. ET (ESPN)
  • Cleveland Cavaliers at Detroit Pistons — 9:30 p.m. ET (ESPN)

In addition, the Washington Mystics play the Indiana Fever tonight at 7:30 p.m. ET. The game is on ion.

Enjoy the games!

How Knicks made decision to change Karl-Anthony Towns’ role in playoff-altering decision

An image collage containing 2 images, Image 1 shows Karl-Anthony Towns (New York Knicks) holding a basketball and Joel Embiid (Philadelphia 76ers) defending him, Image 2 shows New York Knicks Head Coach Mike Brown speaking to the media
Karl-Anthony Towns' new role has sparked the Knicks' offense throughout the postseason.

Karl-Anthony Towns called his own shot — in order to get better shots for those around him. 

There has been so much written and said about the change the Knicks made with Towns, and the decision to play their offense through him as a facilitator from the elbows.

It has been a central storyline of their unprecedented dominance through the first two rounds. 

But how was that decision reached? 

Towns claimed that when the Knicks trailed 2-1 in the first round against the Hawks, he went to the coaching staff and vouched for the change. 

“You’re down 2-1, obviously it’s not the end of the world but you guys understand the importance of the next game. … You go in there and say how you feel, your feelings, your idea and see if it’s received,” Towns said after practice Friday. “And it was received.” 

It certainly has been.

And across the two years of this core and the one year under coach Mike Brown, it’s unlocked the best version of these Knicks. 

Karl-Anthony Towns looks to pass during the Knicks’ May 10 playoff game against the 76ers. NBAE via Getty Images

Towns has more than doubled his regular-season average of 3.0 assists per game to 6.6 in the postseason.

It’s allowed those around him — notably Jalen Brunson — to be cutters and screeners off the ball, resulting in better shot quality for them.

It’s made the Knicks offense much more dynamic. 

The Knicks have won seven straight postseason games since then.

They have a point differential of plus-185 points in that span.

Their 125.3 points per game on offense is the most among playoff teams. 

Karl-Anthony Towns looks to move with the ball during the Knicks’ May 10 playoff game. Jason Szenes for the NY Post

Towns, from the preseason through the entirety of the regular season, was not shy about his thoughts on his role in the offense.

There were constant statements about getting used to Brown’s system and trying to adjust to what Brown wants him to do.

There were a few times he struggled to find answers as to why he was so uninvolved.

Mike Brown addresses reporters during a May 13 press conference. Charles Wenzelberg

It was clear that Towns wanted more, but he kept pointing to the need to sacrifice for the greater good. 

Now, the greater good has been found with Towns as a focal point. 

“I’ve always loved this role,” Towns said of being a facilitator. “I’ve always wanted this role, so [I’m] happy we got to this point.” 

Does he feel vindicated at all? 



“I’ve always said since the beginning, I’ll do whatever it takes to impact winning,” Towns said. “I’m glad I’ve been able to do that with this changing role and be able to help our team win. That’s the most important thing. And utilize my talent.” 

The Post previously reported that assistant coach and offensive coordinator Chris Jent also played a role in bringing the idea to Brown. 

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“You can’t act upon everything,” Brown said Friday. “Because if you act upon everything,  you’re going to be driving yourself crazy and everybody else crazy. It was just something where we were struggling to score [at the time] and I had been thinking about it for awhile and it finally came to me at that point. … I take suggestions from everybody. At the end of the day, it’s up to me to make the decision of yea or nay. The tough part about it is, sometimes when you have suggestions, and there are a lot of good ones out there, a suggestion is one thing, but trying to actually put the suggestion into something that can be real for the group and fit the group, not just that one person, that’s the tricky part. 

“I’ve always been a guy that if you come to me with a suggestion, a lot of times, especially as a coach, you gotta have something to back it up. Some video, some analytics. Tell me how.” 

That last part is important. 

They were small sample sizes, but the Knicks had seen evidence that having the ball in Towns’ hands as a facilitator worked.

“Using KAT sometimes at the end of the [shot] clock, we started using him more [in that role],” Miles McBride said Friday. “And then we kind of naturally started getting into it. Obviously, our coaches are taking notice. It’s kind of what we’ve been doing all year, but I think the more it started happening when, at the end of the clock, guys were [playing] off of him and then we started using it, guys playing off the ball, and then we kind of just started making it a point of emphasis.

“I felt like it was something [Towns] was always capable of.” 

A few factors came together at the perfect time to produce the change that has the Knicks surging.

Spurs vs Timberwolves Computer Picks: Our Best Player Prop Projections for Game 6

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As the series shifts back to Minnesota, the Timberwolves return home looking to force a Game 7 against the San Antonio Spurs, with our NBA player prop projections identifying several strong value spots on the board for tonight's Game 6.

By breaking down the data and comparing it to the latest market lines, we’ve uncovered where the strongest betting edges lie for this pivotal matchup.

These Spurs vs. Timberwolves predictions are driven by numbers instead of guesswork.

If you’re building your card, here are the model’s top NBA picks for Friday, May 15.

Spurs vs Timberwolves computer picks for Game 6

Celtics SpursWarriors Timberwolves
Fox o17.5 points
-115
Edwards o26.5 points
-115
Champagnie o1.5 3-pointers 
-190
Gobert o8.5 rebounds
-120
Castle o6.5 assists
-110
Dosunmu o1.5 3-pointers 
-120

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Spurs Game 6 computer picks

De'Aaron Fox Over 17.5 points (-115)

Projection: 20.02 points

The Minnesota Timberwolves’ up-tempo pace — eighth-fastest over the last five games — should create more scoring chances for the San Antonio Spurs, especially De’Aaron Fox, who’s cleared this points line in back-to-back games.

With San Antonio on the brink of the Western Conference Finals, expect Fox to stay aggressive and surpass this number again.

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Julian Champagnie Over 1.5 3-pointers (-190)

Projection: 2.20 3-pointers

Julian Champagnie has been lights-out from beyond the arc in this series against Minnesota and will look to stay hot as the Spurs push to advance.

He’s cleared this three-point prop in every playoff game but one, and he remains a dependable threat to knock down multiple shots from deep once again.

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Stephon Castle Over 6.5 assists (-110)

Projection: 6.75 assists

Stephon Castle has been a steady playmaker, and his 12-assist outing in Game 3 showed just how high his ceiling is as a facilitator.

With the stakes elevated on the road, expect Castle to embrace the moment, keep the ball moving, and continue setting up quality looks for San Antonio.

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Timberwolves Game 6 computer picks

Anthony Edwards Over 26.5 points (-115)

Projection: 26.92 points

At home this season, the Spurs have struggled to contain opposing starting shooting guards, allowing them to shoot 54.7% from the field — the second-highest mark in the league. That sets up a favorable spot for Anthony Edwards, who’s never one to shy away from a challenge.

Even while dealing with an injury, Edwards has found another gear offensively over the last three games. With Minnesota fighting to keep its season alive, expect him to leave it all on the floor and bring the intensity needed to match the moment.

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Rudy Gobert Over 8.5 rebounds (-120)

Projection: 11.06 rebounds

The Spurs kept Rudy Gobert quiet on the glass in Game 5, limiting him to just five rebounds, and Minnesota won’t survive another outing like that if they want to extend the series.

Gobert has cleared this rebounds line in all but two games this series, and the Timberwolves will need him to bounce back in a big way to control the boards and generate crucial second-chance opportunities.

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Ayo Dosunmu Over 1.5 3-pointers (-120)

Projection: 1.87 3-pointers

At home this season, opposing starting point guards have shot 48.4% from three against the Spurs — the highest mark in the league — making this a strong matchup spot for Ayo Dosunmu, who has been quieter than he was in Minnesota’s first-round series against Denver.

Dosunmu has only cleared this prop once in this series, but if there’s a time for him to heat up from deep, this is it.

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How to watch Spurs vs Timberwolves Game 6

LocationTarget Center, Minneapolis, MN
DateFriday, May 15, 2026
Tip-off9:30 p.m. ET
TVPrime

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Brooklyn Nets not done hoping for hometown hero

WASHINGTON, DC - MARCH 27: Cameron Boozer #12 of the Duke Blue Devils and Zuby Ejiofor #24 of the St. John's Red Storm compete for the ball during the Sweet Sixteen round game of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament held at Capital One Arena on March 27, 2026 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/NCAA Photos via Getty Images) | NCAA Photos via Getty Images

Last year was the year the Brooklyn Nets were supposed to pick a red rose from the garden in their backyard. With Dylan Harper tearing it up at Rutgers and Brooklyn simultaneously beginning its tank run, both parties seemed destined to align on Draft Night. Even his teammate, Ace Bailey, seemed like a storybook prospect for Brooklyn at times with his close proximity to the area. Hell, Sean Marks and B.J. Johnson visited the RAC more than 10 times!

However, and as we learned again last weekend, the basketball gods are not enamored the Brooklyn Nets. Some might even say the gods have put a curse on them, a hex even more effective than Mr. Whammy’s. The gods gave Harper to a team that’s now had only two truly poor seasons in their last 30 years.

This year, the Nets have sixth overall pick. It’s two slots up from where they were last spring, but feels twice as disappointing with Houston owning swap rights to their first rounder in 2027.

It’s also likely outside the range where it would make sense for Brooklyn to take any prospects from any nearby teams. That said, Sean Marks and Johnson are still doing their due diligence locally.

This week, Brian Lewis reported that Nets and New York Knicks met St. John’s star Zuby Ejiofor. The versatile big quickly became a fan favorite in three year’s with the Red Storm and might’ve gained favor with NBA teams this week as well thanks to his pro-ready frame. Moreover, more than one mock draft has Brooklyn taking the Big East Player of the Year at No. 33 in the second round.

At the NBA Combine, Ejiofor measured out to 6’7.5” without shoes, 245 pounds and with a 7’2” wingspan measured…

Ejiofor also spoke with Lewis specifically about the possibility of continuing to playing in New York, either with the Nets or the Knicks.

“New York, obviously it’s a special place. I’ve got to grow a whole lot in the city of New York. And obviously I have a lot of love over there. So, obviously it’d be pretty special to be in a familiar area,” he said.

“If the opportunity happens, I’m more than excited to be there…It’d be a great experience. I spent my last three years in New York. I have a lot of love there in New York City. I’ve been away for a while, but I’m going back to New York on the 17th to walk for graduation. But, yeah, it will be a great experience if it happens. I’m going to be excited and my family is as well.”

The Knicks, it should be noted, have the 24th and 31st picks.

If Ejiofor stays in the Big Apple, Manhattan seems like the more likely borough for him. The Knicks picking at 24 this year, and pundits continue to mock him as a mid-to-late first rounder even with his noteworthy measurements.

That said, the idea of Brooklyn trading back or back into the first round can’t be discounted. The Nets have made a trade during or within 48 hours of the NBA Draft each of the last two years.

Spurs vs Timberwolves Same-Game Parlay for Tonight's NBA Playoffs Game 6

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If the San Antonio Spurs want to punch their ticket to the Western Conference finals, this young squad needs to go into the belly of the beast and beat a veteran Minnesota Timberwolves team on its own floor.

My Spurs vs. Timberwolves predictions for Game 6 expect San Antonio to finish off a hurting Minnesota team, with stars De’Aaron Fox and Victor Wembanyama leading the charge on Friday night.

Here are my latest NBA picks for May 15.

Our best Spurs vs Timberwolves SGP for Game 6

SGP leg #1: Spurs moneyline

The San Antonio Spurs throw a lot at you. They had six guys score at least a dozen points in Game 5, and that depth is something the Minnesota Timberwolves' experience just can’t counter. 

Anthony Edwards is playing hurt, Julius Randle is ice cold, and Jalen McDaniels can’t avoid foul trouble. San Antonio matures before our eyes with a statement win on the road.

SGP leg #2: De’Aaron Fox Over 16.5 points

De’Aaron Fox has eclipsed this points prop in three straight games, and projections have him pegged for as many as 20 in Game 6.

Fox is doing damage inside and could see an even cleaner path to the paint with Rudy Gobert playing less and the T-Wolves trying to roll out a smaller lineup.

SGP leg #3: Victor Wembanyama Over 13.5 rebounds

Victor Wembanyama has topped his rebounding total in every outing in this series — outside of his early ejection in Game 4.

With his presence in the paint pushing Minnesota into poor outside shooting, there’s a surplus of misses to be wrangled.

Wemby has drawn at least 18 rebounding chances in each of those four games, converting them into 15+ rebounds.


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See our full Spurs vs Timberwolves Game 6 preview

Get Jason Logan's full breakdown of this game, including his best bet, plus the latest NBA odds, injuries, and betting trends, in his Spurs vs Timberwolves predictions for Game 6.

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CSR Weekend Warriors: 5/15-5/17

Greetings, Panthers fans. Welcome to the weekend.

Feel free to use this thread to chat about (almost) anything you want: video games, food, movies, non-football sports, you name it. As long as it’s allowed by the site’s ToS, it’s fair game here.

You know the drill.

This is now an open thread

Is it Mikal Brown Jr. for Nets at No. 6 … or will Brooklyn try to move?

CHICAGO, IL - MAY 12: Mikel Brown Jr. looks on during the game during the 2026 NBA Draft Combine on May 12, 2026 at Wintrust Arena in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Melissa Tamez/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

The NBA Combine is over. Agents’ pro days too. Chicago is in the past. Next come workouts and interviews which are likely underway. The process has a long way to go with the 2026 NBA Draft still five weeks away at the end of June. In meantime, all we have is mock drafts which at this point are mainly entertainment.

All that said, there is a creeping belief that the Nets have at least some interest in Mikal Brown Jr., the 6’5” Louisville combo guard whose prospects have gotten better with both a solid performance in Chicago, particularly at his pro day workout Thursday. Also concerns about his back injury which laid him low this past season have dissipated.

The Nets level of interest of course is a closely held secret or more likely still forming. The Nets despite the devastating drop in the Lottery five days ago, have a lot of options: they can move up, move down, add another first or in the most unlikely scenario move up into the top four where the franchise-changers they crave reside.

Brian Lewis on Friday suggested that indeed things remain unsettled but Brown has to be considered. Indeed, in the most recent mock, Bleacher Report’s Jonathan Wasserman has the Nets taking the 20-year-old Orlando native.

Whispers going around the combine suggest Nets general manager Sean Marks is open to moving up or down from the No. 6 spot. But if he stands pat, with the Nets having failed to land a top-four pick, there is a chance Brown — who dealt with a back injury as a freshman — has as much untapped talent as anybody else in the class.

Brown likes the possibility of moving to Brooklyn which has a basically a blank canvas.

“It would be a great opportunity right there,” Brown told Lewis. “Just continuing to build relationships with them as the time goes on and continue to talk to my family and my circle and my agent and the people behind me.

“It’s something that we’re definitely interested in, and looking forward to building a relationship with [the Nets].”

He noted that he met with the Nets contingent in Chicago but has yet to set up a meeting in Brooklyn.

What about the Nets surplus of guards? After all at one point or another last season, the Nets played their No. 8 pick, Egor Demin; their No. 19 pick, Nolan Traore; their No. 22 pick, Drake Powell; and their No. 26 pick, Ben Saraf, at the lead guard position.

“I feel like I can adapt to any situation, whether that’s being a guy or just being somebody that has to play off of somebody else, I can do that,” Brown said in a very typical response, adding. “Definitely just creating for others,” Brown said. “Obviously, I can shoot the ball well, but … I think I do a really good job of trying to get a feel for where my teammates like the ball at, where certain players like the ball at, and try to get to them right in that spot. So I think that’s what separates me.”

There are of course other guards in the mix at Nos. 5 through 10. Lewis describes them this way: “Illinois’ Keaton Wagler has the shooting, and Arkansas’ Darius Acuff Jr. has the craft and the polish. Arizona’s Brayden Burries has the height, and Houston’s Kingston Flemings has the defense and speed.“

Each also has a downside: Wagler’s lack of high level athleticism, Fleming’s size, Acuff’s lack of defense and Burries lack of a single elite skill. For Brown, it’s his injury. He says he feels fine.

“I feel amazing,” Brown said. “I was just focused on getting back to where I was before the season started. … I feel better than I have in a long time. I think teams got a good sample size of when I’m playing and what I can become. The medical stuff is going to come up, but I feel great right now. Honestly, I learned a lot with the injury on what I have to prioritize. So it helped me in a sense, the learning process of it. … It’s only going to get better from here.”

No matter what the Nets decide, don’t expect much news for a while. Last year, the first pre-Draft trade — the Pelicans’ decision to cast caution to the wind and trade up 10 spots to take Derek Queen — took place during the NBA Finals (a rarity.) In NetsWorld, Marks has a history of waiting till near the last minute to make his moves: In nine of the 10 Drafts he’s run as GM, he’s made a deal within 48 hours of the Draft. Last year, it was acquiring the 22nd pick which became Powell in a salary dump. Two years ago, it was the two trades with the Knicks and Rockets.

So, in the meanwhile, there will be a lot of speculation and likely a lot of movement around the league. As Brown told Lewis, “I honestly don’t pay attention to the mock drafts,” Brown said. “You never know where you’re going to go on draft night.” Probably smart.

SunsRank: From lottery picks to veterans, the final season rankings are in

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - APRIL 22: Devin Booker #1 of the Phoenix Suns handles the ball during the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder during Round One Game Two of the 2026 NBA Playoffs on April 22, 2026 at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Barry Gossage/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

Cue Boyz II Men, because we’ve (finally) come to the end of the road. We’ve arrived at the final SunsRank for the 2025-26 season.

Once again, thank you to everyone who took the time to vote, provide input, and approach this exercise without trolling. Well, mostly without trolling. Because yes, there were definitely a few of you out there. When you see Devin Booker receive votes for the depth pieces tier, you can’t help but laugh a little. Human nature remains undefeated.

So here’s where everything landed, and this is the framework we’ll revisit in September when preseason SunsRank rolls around again.

#Community SunsRankWriters SunsRank
1Devin BookerDevin Booker
2Jalen GreenDillon Brooks
3Dillon BrooksJalen Green
4Collin GillespieCollin Gillespie
5Grayson AllenMark Williams
6Jordan GoodwinGrayson Allen
7Mark WilliamsJordan Goodwin
8Oso IghodaroOso Ighodaro
9Rasheer FlemingRoyce O’Neale
10Khaman MaluachRasheer Fleming
11Royce O’NealeRyan Dunn
12Ryan DunnKhaman Maluach
13Jamaree BouyeaHaywood Higsmith
14Haywood HighsmithJamaree Bouyea
15Koby BreaAmir Coffey
16Amir CoffeyIsaiah Livers
17Isaiah LiversKoby Brea
18CJ HuntleyCJ Huntley

The battle for the #2 spot was legitimately close. In the end, Jalen Green barely edged out the competition by five total votes. That tells you everything you need to know. The Bright Side community ranked him second overall, still, it was far from unanimous.

Other interesting differences showed up between the community rankings and the Bright Side writing staff. Mark Williams finished seventh in the community vote, whereas the writers placed him fifth. The community slotted Khaman Maluach at No. 10, which is exactly where I had him, whereas the writers landed him at 12.

Like every ballot, every perspective was a little different. In the end, this is where we landed.

What makes SunsRank fun every year is that it becomes a snapshot of where the fan base’s head is at in real time. Some players inspire belief. Some inspire skepticism. Some land directly in the middle, which honestly feels like the most Phoenix Suns experience imaginable these days. The Jalen Green conversation perfectly captured that divide. There’s intrigue there, clearly, although there’s still hesitation attached to what exactly he becomes long term.

And as we head toward another offseason full of questions, roster decisions, and inevitable overreactions, this final SunsRank serves as a pretty honest reflection of how people currently view the state of the organization.

Boston Celtics Daily Links 5/15/26

BOSTON, MA - MAY 2: The sneakers worn by Tyrese Maxey #0 of the Philadelphia 76ers before the game against the Boston Celtics during Round One Game Seven of the 2026 NBA Playoffs on May 2, 2026 at TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

HeraldJaylen Brown among finalists for NBA Social Justice Champion award

Globe Former Celtics star Isaiah Thomas hired by Boston as a pro, college scout

CelticsBlogThe Isaiah Thomas-Celtics reunion was way past due

Meet the Celtics first 3 workouts

Isaiah Thomas is rejoining the Celtics — this time in a different role

CLNS MediaCeltics Bring Back Isaiah Thomas in New Role | Still Poddable

Blakely: The Celtics Should Not Trade Jaylen Brown This Offseason

NESN Bucks Star Rips Ex-Celtics Coach Doc Rivers, Says Giannis Antetokounmpo ‘Is Gonna Show Up Whenever He Wants’

Insider Floats Reunion With 2018 First Round Pick If Celtics Lose Giannis Sweepstakes

Celtics’ Jaylen Brown Among Five Finalists For Prestigious NBA Award

Celtics Insider Floats Reunion With Former Guard In NBA Free Agency This Offseason

AJ Dybantsa Makes Bold Celtics Claim Month Before 2026 NBA Draft

Jeff Goodman Pitches Idea For Giannis Antetokounmp & LeBron James To Wear Celtics Green

Mass Live Ex-Celtics coach ‘didn’t fine anybody’ with Bucks, superstar trade target was worst offender

Celtics Mailbag: What could Boston offer LeBron James in free agency?

AJ Dybantsa makes honest statement on Celtics fandom ahead of NBA Draft

Celtics WireMapping how the Celtics will navigate their 2026 NBA offseason

Isaiah Thomas on how Kobe reached out after sister passed before Boston Celtics playoffs

Boston Celtics star Jaylen Brown guests on Jennifer Hudson Show

Celtics Jayson Tatum opens up on how daily life became a challenge after Achilles injury

Celtics history: Bing, KG, Russell to HOF; Nelson, Vaughn born

What might the Celtics offseason moves look like?

Celtics fan favorite Isaiah Thomas is back in Boston as a scout

Tatum Achilles tendon injury was just bad luck, says Celtics star

Boston Sports Journal NBA Notebook: Celtics media literacy, LeBron James’ future, and an NBA Finals look-ahead

Hardwood HoudiniJayson Tatum’s best friend is Anfernee Simons replacement Celtics desperately need

Latest Giannis injury rumor raises concerns for possible Celtics trade

Warriors cast-off could be optimal addition for Celtics this offseason

Celtics can’t ignore potential red flag in Giannis Antetokounmpo pursuit

Celtics must make crucial offseason upgrade to feed Joe Mazzulla’s obsession

Celtics have major reason to trade Sam Hauser beyond acquiring new talent

AJ Dybansta’s brutal Celtics realization couldn’t have come at more painful time

Isaiah Thomas finally gets chance for long-overdue happy ending with Celtics

Chowder and Champions Brian Scalabrine exposed major flaw in Celtics-Giannis dream

Celtics may need to take bold Payton Pritchard gamble this offseason

Locked on CelticsBrad’s BLUEPRINT: Figuring Out How Boston Celtics Will Approach Offseason

Yahoo SportsWhy would the Celtics ever break up Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown?

SI .com Narrowing Down Potential Boston Celtics Free Agent, Trade Targets, and Strategies

One Mistake the Boston Celtics Need to Avoid This Offseason to Maximize Their Assets

The Sporting News Celtics predicted to acquire $62 million Warriors future Hall of Fame guard via blockbuster trade

Bleacher ReportIsaiah Thomas Reportedly Joining Celtics Staff, Former NBA Star’s Role Revealed Ahead of Draft

Giannis Trolls NBA Trade Rumors With Cryptic Comment on Social Media Video Post

HeavyCeltics Get Major Update on Possible Jaylen Brown-Giannis Antetokounmpo Trade

Jaylen Brown Says He’s Trying to Continue What Kobe Bryant Started

Celtics Bring Back Isaiah Thomas — But Not in the Way Fans Expect

NBA Makes Jaylen Brown Announcement as Celtics Trade Rumors Swirl

Celtics’ Jayson Tatum Shares Surprising Revelation About His Son Deuce

Celtics Get Bold AJ Dybantsa Admission Ahead of NBA Draft

Fox NewsDana White recalls bizarre confrontation with Warriors owner who tried to “Unzip” his Celtics hoodie

The Sports HubJaylen Brown says he used fans to influence Brad Stevens

Celtics bring back Isaiah Thomas in front office role

Clutch PointsCeltics’ Jaylen Brown reveals Kobe Bryant inspiration for shoe brand

Last Word on SportsCould The Boston Celtics Be Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Next Team?

NBA .comFinalists announced for 2025-26 NBA Social Justice Champion award

Harvard Business School Inside the High-Stakes Playbook of Celtics’ Coach Mazzulla

Fan RecapCeltics Get One Condition For Giannis Trade

Locked on PelicansJaylen Brown for Zion Williamson? Would a Franchise Changing TRADE Be What the Pelicans Need?

AudacyCan/will Brown accept whatever role Mazzulla and/or front office are ‘offering’? Let’s hear from Jaylen Brown!

The RingerIs the Modern NBA Breaking Its Stars?

Celtics RoundtableBoston Celtics Big Man Now Stands Next to Former MVP in NBA History

The Lead The Celtics Have Several Reunion Options in 2026 Free Agency

Pistons vs Cavaliers Same-Game Parlay for Tonight's NBA Playoffs Game 6

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It’s do-or-die for the Detroit Pistons, who have to steal Game 6 on the road to keep their season alive.

On the flip side, the Cleveland Cavaliers are one win away from closing the door at home and booking their first Eastern Conference Finals trip since 2018.

Coming off a tough Game 5 loss, Detroit enters on uneven footing, and our Pistons vs. Cavaliers predictions & same-game parlay see Cleveland handling business and finishing the job in front of their home crowd.

Check out our NBA picks for Friday, May 15.

Our best Pistons vs Cavaliers SGP for Game 6

SGP leg #1: Cavaliers -3.5

The Cleveland Cavaliers have flipped this series after falling behind 2-0, now sitting just one win away from the Conference Finals.

At Rocket Arena, they’ve been nearly unstoppable as they rank top three in points, three-pointers, offensive efficiency, offensive rating, and fewest turnovers at home during the playoffs.

Cleveland is also a perfect 6-0 on its home floor this postseason, underscoring just how dominant they’ve been in front of their own crowd.

SGP leg #1: Cavaliers team total Over 106.5

The Cavaliers’ 120.4 offensive rating at Rocket Arena ranks third-best among all playoff teams, while their 118.0 points per game on their home floor sits second overall.

More importantly, this hasn’t been a one-game spike or matchup-driven anomaly — Cleveland has scored at least 107 points in every home playoff game so far, showing a clear and repeatable trend of elevated efficiency in front of its own crowd. 

With the series shifting back to a familiar setting and a chance to close things out in Game 6, that baseline production feels like the floor rather than the ceiling.

SGP leg #1: Donovan Mitchell Over 26.5 points

A major reason for the Cavaliers consistency is the home-road split from Donovan Mitchell, who has been significantly more comfortable and efficient at Rocket Arena this postseason.

Mitchell is averaging 30.2 points per game at home on an impressive 50.8% shooting clip, compared to 22.3 points on 40.2% shooting on the road.

That gap is not just minor variance — it reflects how much cleaner his looks have been in Cleveland, where the spacing, rhythm, and early-clock opportunities all come easier within the Cavaliers’ system.


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Get Zak Hanshew's full breakdown of this game, including his best bet, plus the latest NBA odds, injuries, and betting trends, in his Pistons vs. Cavaliers predictions for Game 6.

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