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The Knicks were heralded as royalty Thursday in what is estimated to be the largest ticker tape parade — and biggest party — in Big Apple history, with ravenous fans arriving hours ahead of the event to catch a glimpse of the champions.

An estimated 2 million fans flooded lower Manhattan for the blockbuster event, forming a sea of orange and blue that extended blocks beyond the Canyon of Heroes and swelled with unadulterated joy.

The epic championship ceremony is estimated to be the largest parade in New York City history. T.JACKSON / BACKGRID

More than a million fans flooded lower Manhattan to witness the event. Charles Wenzelberg / New York Post

Knicks guard Jose Alvarado is swarmed by fans during the parade. Brian Zak/NY Post

“This is Knick City! This is basketball town,” said Al James, of Staten Island, who took the day off from the MTA to participate.

“I never felt the energy like this. I’ve never seen anything like this before.”

The exuberant vibes and a ceremony to give the team the ceremonial keys were the icing on the cake after a historic playoff run that saw the Knicks go 16-3 and rattle off 13 wins in a row.

The team finished off their epic Finals run by polishing off the San Antonio Spurs and NBA golden boy Victor Wembanyama in 5 games, in heated battles that saw Wemby become the most hated man in New York because of his roughhouse play — and the Knicks come out on top in a Game 4 showdown that saw them erase a 29-point deficit.

Jalen Brunson was seen alongside his father, Rick, and “Law & Order” star Mariska Hargitay on the parade float. Charles Wenzelberg / New York Post

Many fans climbed up street poles and scaffolding to catch a glimpse of the players. Getty Images

At one point, Brunson exited the float and let fans touch the Larry O’Brien championship trophy. AP Photo/Richard Drew

The championship turned even cynical New Yorkers giddy and transformed the five boroughs into party central during and after games, with the parade and ceremony Thursday serving as a primal catharsis for a title-starved fanbase that went 53 years without an NBA title.

Follow The Post’s live updates from the Knicks Championship parade for the latest city chaos, celeb sightings and sports reaction.

Jersey-wearing fans started showing up along the parade route not long after midnight in hopes of securing the very limited spots along the parade route.

The NYPD said 10 people were arrested and three were slapped with summonses on charges that included assault, disorderly conduct, resisting arrest and obstruction of governmental administration.

The Knicks parade goes down the Canyon of Heroes in Manhattan. Brian Zak/NY Post

An estimated two million fans came out for the celebration. Brian Zak/NY Post

Fans lined up early to get a look at their championship squad. Brian Zak/NY Post

One fan even climbed a tree to catch a better view. Brian Zak/NY Post

Fans arrived to the parade route hours before the event started. AP Photo/Richard Drew

Mayor Zohran Mamdani teased that the ticker tape parade could be the biggest in Big Apple history days before, saying 1 million could attend — although turnout was at least double that.

Sean Dolan, 28, of Jersey City, planted himself in the area at 2 a.m., telling The Post the party was “like Christmas.”

Here’s the latest coverage on the Knicks’ historic ticker-tape championship parade

“It’s one of the biggest moments of my life, honestly. Just being able to see the team you’ve been rooting for your whole life win, being able to come and celebrate it with those millions and millions Knicks fans that are going to be here today, it’s an insane feeling,” Dolan said.

Gabriel Walcott, 18, woke up at 3 a.m. to race to the event from Ronkomkoma with a Brunson, egg and cheese in hand, saying he was “willing to do anything” to be a part of the action.

Mayor Mamdani honored the players with keys to the city at City Hall. Stephen Yang for NY Post

The Knicks finished off the playoffs by going 16-3 en route to their first championship in 53 years. Stephen Yang for NY Post

Many also flocked from other states for the occasion, including Azaa and Bobby Thorpe, who had the 10-hour drive from North Carolina.

“This means the world to me,” said Azaa, 70, with Bobby, 67, adding, “The team won the game but they won it for everybody out here today. I was saying thank God. They finally did it.”

The crowds were so intense that many people were turned away from the access points by 7:30 a.m. — less than an hour after fans were allowed to start filing inside the parade area.

Many fans also came from other states to witness the occasion. Matthew McDermott for NY Post

Alicia Keys performed to close the ceremony. Stephen Yang for NY Post

The subways were also so overwhelmed with fans that it took some passengers around 30 minutes to crawl from the platforms onto the street.

The NYPD and organizers had double-barricaded the parade area in anticipation of the chaos, but the metal gates were no match for the ravenous Knicks fans.

Hundreds brazenly broke through and hopped the barricades and sprinted past officers in a desperate attempt to catch a glimpse of their heroes parading through lower Manhattan.

The subways were also so overwhelmed with fans that it took some passengers around 30 minutes to crawl from the platforms onto the street. Charles Wenzelberg / New York Post

Public transit got so crowded that trains were suspended below Canal Street. Charles Wenzelberg / New York Post

Dozens of others perched atop scaffolding, subway entrances, street signs and the sides of buildings.

Those who couldn’t squeeze into the packed parade areas instead flooded into nearby bars, where they followed the floats pass by on the television.

“It’s nothing but pure joy out here. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” said Kendall, who arrived at 6:30 a.m. but was turned away from the parade.

Knicks superfan Ben Stiller was just one of the many Celebrity Row mainstays who were in attendance. Robert Miller for NY Post

Fans are reflected in a trophy held by New York Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns during the team’s NBA championship parade. AP Photo/Heather Khalifa

“Today, it doesn’t matter where you’re from, what your politics are. Today, we’re all New Yorkers,” the West Villager said.

The ticker tape parade concluded at City Hall, where the champions were presented with keys to the City of New York.

The players are the first to be bestowed the Mamdani-era commemorative keys, which feature an apple and leaf motif instead of the traditional seal of New York City.

“For as long as we live and you remember this feeling of a city together, a city alive, a city overcome by happiness,” Hizzoner said at the ceremony.

“This is our city. This is our team. For 53 years we watched, for 53 years we waited. Now we’ve won.”

— Additional reporting by Joe Marino and Tina Moore

June 18, 2026

Lakers have done ‘due diligence’ on Jalen Duren, Walker Kessler, Peyton Watson

DETROIT, MI - MARCH 23: Jalen Duren #0 of the Detroit Pistons ddribbles the ball as Deandre Ayton #5 of the Los Angeles Lakers plays defense during the game on March 23, 2026 at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Chris Schwegler/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

While restricted free agency is a dying concept under the new CBA, the Lakers are positioned to be one of the teams that could still take advantage of the archaic process.

Rarely will a contending team have cap space like the Lakers will this summer, but a perfect storm of circumstances — namely Austin Reaves’ small cap hold — means the Lakers are uniquely positioned. Making matters even better is that the restricted free agent market is a strong one this season, especially when compared to the unrestricted market.

It should be little surprise, then, that the Lakers have checked in on the top names in restricted free agency, as Dave McMenamin of ESPN reported on Tuesday, including Jalen Duren and Walker Kessler.

There are several restricted free agents the Lakers have already done their due diligence on, sources familiar with the team’s thinking told ESPN.
Two of them, Jalen Duren of the Detroit Pistons and Walker Kessler of the Utah Jazz, would satisfy Doncic’s directive to secure an A-list center.
Two others, Peyton Watson of the Denver Nuggets and Tari Eason of the Rockets, are the type of 3-and-D archetypes who any team needs in order to succeed in the modern NBA.

Those two bigs are not new names for the Lakers to be linked with. More recently, Kessler has become a relevant name again as he seems to be potentially on his way out of Utah. The links between him and the Lakers are long-standing, pre-dating even Luka Dončić’s arrival.

As for Duren, he’s a name that’s popped up more than once with the Lakers, even if it’s slid under the radar more often than not. At the trade deadline in 2025, the Lakers called the Pistons about Duren before trading for Mark Williams. Duren was also on Luka’s wish list after joining the franchise.

Of the two, Kessler seems more gettable. While Duren had an awful postseason, he did have an All-NBA season preceding that and was a vital piece of Detroit securing the top seed in the Eastern Conference.

The other two names mentioned by McMenamin fill a different hole in the Lakers roster as wings. Watson had a breakout season in Denver and looks set for a big payday that the Nuggets aren’t too eager to give him as things currently stand due to the luxury tax penalties.

Both the team and fans got a firsthand look at Eason in the playoffs this year, but indications seem to be that Houston will pay him this summer since he’s one of the few players on the roster who can shoot.

Even if the Lakers are positioned to take advantage of these situations, restricted free agency remains a difficult and unlikely route to acquire players. But it’s still something worth spending time on, as the Lakers have before the offseason fully begins.

You can follow Jacob on Twitter at @JacobRude or on Bluesky at @jacobrude.bsky.social.

June 18, 2026

MLB proposes sweeping draft changes, including ban on high school picks

Major League Baseball is seeking to radically overhaul the amateur draft that would eliminate players from being immediately drafted out of high school, requiring them to be at least 20 years old, in their latest proposal to the players union Thursday that the union blasted.

"MLB made another set of proposals that are flat-out bad for baseball, ones that would cripple the next generation of players and damage the future of our game," Bruce Meyer, interim executive director of the Major League Baseball Players Association, said in a statement.

MLB’s proposal, which would begin in 2028, would require players to be at least 20 years old by Sept. 1 of their draft year, and at least two years after their high school graduation. MLB is also seeking to reduce the draft from 20 rounds to 12 rounds with a $200 million draft pool – a reduction from $358.7 million – while also implementing a 12-round international draft.

The proposal was called "the most absurd thing I’ve ever heard in my life," by one veteran agent, with one MLB scouting director saying, "let’s just kill the game!"

MLB’s proposal would eliminate more than $1 billion in player compensation from the international and domestic system over the next five years, with a $400 million reduction in 2026-2027, Meyer said. He also believes it would "destroy fundamental player rights and remove talent from our sport by barring high school and junior college players (anyone under age 20) from the domestic draft." And delaying international signings until September 2027 would be "denying young international players the ability to start their professional careers."

"MLB has sent a edict to all teams development and scouting departments," powerful agent Scott Boras said. "They are not worthy of developing young players."

Boras continued: "They are berating franchises, they are berating players, and berating the game for even suggesting this."

The proposal would incentivize players to attend college, MLB says, allowing them to develop in college while still being paid with NIL funds. Players wouldn’t necessarily need to be an active college player but could be drafted after playing in independent baseball or an MLB Draft League. In return, MLB would lower the qualification for college players to be drafted after their sophomore season instead of their junior year.

MLB lauds the success of collegiate programs, saying it has become "become increasingly central to developing future Major Leaguers" with 75% of MLB players having played in college.

Yet, several MLB scouts told USA TODAY Sports that they vehemently disagree, and that the new draft eligibility would be a detriment to the development of players.

"College baseball is not set up for development," one scouting director said. "It’s to win games. So many freshmen don’t even get to play."

Said Boras: "Any good college coach plays their seniors and juniors so this group going to college would not be playing. These older players will be taking up their playing time. That’s why we have professional choices. You’re playing 60 games in college. Playing professionally, you learn how to play 140 games. You learn how to psychologically survive the game."

While Boras and others insist the new proposal is designed strictly to save money and assure that players won’t be able to hit free agency early to capitalize on their skills, MLB says that the college ranks will prepare players quicker to make the transition to MLB.

"Over the last several years, college baseball has undergone a remarkable transformation," MLB said in a statement. "Expanded scholarships, NIL opportunities, revenue sharing, and significant investments in facilities and player development have made college baseball an increasingly important pathway that is producing major league-ready talent at an accelerated rate. Today's top programs provide players with resources, competition, and national exposure that were unimaginable a decade ago.

"Our proposal is designed to build on that momentum to benefit the game at the college, minor league and major league levels. By creating a draft system centered around college-aged players and making most college players eligible one year earlier, more players will benefit from both a college education and an elite development environment while reaching professional baseball – and ultimately the major leagues – more quickly. We believe these changes will strengthen college baseball and deepen fans' connection to the next generation of major league stars."

MLB said that if their proposal is implemented, 86% of the top-40 college selections in the 2025 draft would have been eligible a year earlier under the new eligibility rules.

The new draft would also enable teams to trade first-round picks for the first time since the draft was implemented in 1965, but not in consecutive years. No club would be allowed to accrue more than three extra picks within the first three rounds of a draft. It also would require at least 10 players to attend the MLB Draft, and would receive a $50,000 draft bonus. There wasn’t a single first-round pick last year that attended the draft.

The proposal would not reduce the number of minor-league teams, which currently is at 120, MLB said, through at least 2030. MLB also is lowering the draft lottery selections from six to four, with no team eligible to receive a lottery selection for three consecutive years.

MLB also wants to implement a 12-round international draft. The international draft, which was proposed in the 2021 CBA in return for eliminating qualifying offers for free agents, would be 12 rounds and restricted to players who are at least 18 years old, with a signing-bonus pool of $200 million for 360 international players.

International players who aren’t drafted would be limited to a maximum $10,000 signing bonus while receiving a $30,000 bonus once they complete a full minor-league season.

Yet, as several MLB executives point out, the proposal means that kids born in the United States would actually be penalized, having to wait two years longer than international players to sign MLB contracts.

"It is long past time to reform the international amateur system in ways that would address longstanding challenges and benefit future players," MLB said in a statement. "The enhanced transparency of the International Draft that we are proposing is a common-sense step forward that best addresses the root causes of corruption in the current system.

"Our vision for the new international system reduces the pressure on young athletes by giving them the chance to grow and develop, keeps kids in school longer while they pursue a career in baseball, and creates more playing opportunities for the older players who are left behind in today’s system."

The draft would help diminish the corruption in foreign countries, MLB says, with teams reaching deals with kids who are 10 years or older, which has resulted in falsifying birth certificates with performance-enhancing drugs becoming more rampant. MLB also would implement an international scouting and medical combine for the top 300 international prospects.

The union believes MLB wants an international draft strictly as a cost-saving measure for clubs, just like the reasoning for a reduced domestic draft that would delay kids from entering the draft. The later they enter the draft, the later they hit free agency. The later they hit free agency, the older they’ll be. And the older they’ll be, the less money they’ll be paid.

Juan Soto signed with the Washington Nationals at 16, reached the big leagues at 19, and is the game’s highest-paid player with a $765 million contract. Vladimir Guerrero Jr., who was signed by the Toronto Blue Jays at 16, signed a 14-year, $500 million contract when he was 26. Bryce Harper was drafted first in the county when he was 17, reached free agency at 26 years old, and signed for $330 million with the Phillies.

"Almost all of our top-level players in this game," Boras said, "teams invested in when they were young. That’s what this is all about. It’s about money. It’s not about the betterment of the game. They want them to be older in the game so they can create ceilings."

If the draft is reduced once again, with age restrictions and a hard slot, Boras predicts it will drive young athletes to other sports.

"Barring American boys of choices and representation will certainly redirect the best youth athletes to other sports," Boras said. "Franchises built their futures on the (Bobby) Witts, (Gunnar) Hendersons and (Elly) De La Cruzes, and in past drafts the (Bryce) Harpers, (Ken) Griffeys, A-Rods, and now they deny those players and teams the right of choice.

"NBA, NHL and international soccer is so happy about this decision as they offer youth choices for great athletes."

Follow Bob Nightengale on X at @Bnightengale

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: MLB proposes draft overhaul: No high school players, age 20 minimum

June 18, 2026

Outlining Spencer Jones’ path to success in 2026

NEW YORK, NY - JUNE 16: Spencer Jones #78 of the New York Yankees takes the field during the game against the Chicago White Sox at Yankee Stadium on June 16, 2026 in New York, New York. (Photo by New York Yankees/Getty Images) | Getty Images

On Tuesday night, with the Yankees down early against a surprising White Sox squad, Spencer Jones turned on an inside cutter and hit a laser of a home run into the second deck in right field. The blast, his second of the season and first career homer in the Bronx, was a definite boost for the rookie slugger.

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Now in his second stint with the big club this season, Jones is looking more the part of a solid player. One of the organization’s top prospects headed into this season, he looked a bit overmatched following his first call-up. Since being recalled earlier in June, however, the big left-hander has made some nice strides.

Following his solid game against Chicago, he entered play on Wednesday with a .239/.340/.391 slash line, good for a 109 wRC+. Nothing jumps off the page, but that’s solid production for anyone, especially coming from a guy’s first 53 Major League plate appearances. But as the season progresses, the question of what constitutes a successful debut for Jones becomes more important, and an answer perhaps more clear.

The light tower power has always been Jones’ calling card, and will continue to be as he adjusts to the big leagues. FanGraphs gave him 70-grade raw power on his 2026 prospects report, and the numbers certainly back it up. In 2025, Jones played 116 games across the minors and belted 35 homers while slugging an impressive .571. Having turned 25 just last month, Jones’ excellent 2025 in the minor leagues was part of a consistently improving career in pro ball, and his call up this season was only a matter of time.

But, to answer that important question, we can’t just shift his minor league stats in what would be an unrealistic and likely over-optimistic view of his current state. Instead, his solid, but not necessarily eye-popping start to 2026 in the majors is a much more realistic look at what to expect.

His power will always be there, and he’s already done his job in proving that as he hits the ball exceptionally hard and with top shelf bat speed. Homers like the one we saw on Tuesday only prove what was already known about Jones, but the things that come with big time power, on top of the other skills the 25-year-old possesses, will be what keeps him afloat.

After a difficult stretch to begin his time in the majors, things have leveled out for Jones, and he’s beginning to rely on his keen eye at the plate more, which can serve him well as he continues to develop. To this point he’s managing an excellent 13.2 percent walk rate, which is higher than any rate he posted in a minor league season. It’s certainly a big part of his 109 wRC+, but will have to be while he finds his footing. Even if the strikeout rate remains troublingly close to 40 percent, and the holes in the swing stick around, being able to run into homers and walk more than ten percent of the time will be enough for the rookie.

Aaron Judge is out until later in the summer, Trent Grisham is on the shelf, and Giancarlo Stanton has suffered another setback, so a viable Jones in the lineup makes a world of difference for the Yankees. Even though his eventual return to the minors is perhaps more likely than not, there is certainly a gap to be filled. If Jones can continue to bash some homers, draw his walks, and keep up the good work with the glove while lineup stalwarts are on the shelf, it feels safe to call that a success.

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His role may evolve, whether it shrinks or he hits enough to force himself into a spot, but at the moment Jones’ role is to fill the void while the injury bug bites. While his profile is one that can see some real lows along with the highs, the good stuff is of high enough quality that he can certainly get by, exactly as we’re seeing in this first cup of coffee. He’ll almost surely be a full-time player at some point in the near future, but for now, he doesn’t have to do much more to play his part.

June 18, 2026

SB Nation Reacts: Matthew Boyd will help the Cubs on his return

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

Earlier this week, I posted this SB Nation Reacts survey asking you which of the Cubs’ three injured starters, Matthew Boyd, Justin Steele or Jameson Taillon, would help the Cubs the most on his return. Also included was a “none of these” option.

Here are the results:

Of the three, Boyd is likely closest to returning, though he did have a setback after his second rehab start June 6 for Triple-A Iowa. He is now scheduled to make another rehab start on Saturday, and presumably if that goes well, he could return next week during the road trip.

Boyd had a very good 2025, though was not throwing well so far this year. The knee injury that put him on the injured list for the second time this year wasn’t baseball-related, as you know, and hopefully he’ll be back to 100 percent soon. The Cubs could use a healthy Boyd.

Thirty-four percent of respondents to the survey said “none.” While that’s possible, I will remain more hopeful. And, of course, there’s the possibility of the Cubs acquiring some starting pitching help by trade before the Aug. 3 deadline.

Here are the results of the two national questions asked in the survey.

This result surprises me in that more than 40 percent of people who voted would blame players for a lockout. Let’s make it clear — a lockout is from ownership, period. Players can only go on strike, and since the CBA expires in December, that doesn’t give players any leverage to do that.

It is nearly 100 percent certain that owners will lock out players Dec. 1 when the CBA expires. What happens after that is … well, who knows. The Athletic polled players about a lockout and here are the results; they also polled fans and this article summarizes the results of that survey.

There should be no surprise at the results of this question. The Dodgers have been assumed to be at the top of the pile for most of this season. While they are riding two straight World Series titles, it should be remembered that the Blue Jays were one bad baserunning choice and one unbelievable catch from winning last year. It can be that random.

The Cubs, as you can see, did make it to the final list — but so did the surprising White Sox. Personally, I think that while the White Sox are clearly a vastly improved team over the 101-loss club of a year ago, they are going to fade and finish near .500. Of course, the way the American League is these days (only five teams over .500), that might be good enough for a postseason spot — or maybe even the AL Central title.

This edition of SB Nation Reacts is sponsored by FanDuel.

June 18, 2026

Ducks' Mason McTavish Expected To Be Traded, Red Wings Among Potential Landing Spots

TSN insider Darren Dreger reported Thursday that he believes Anaheim Ducks forward Mason McTavish will be moved, adding another high-profile name to what is shaping up to be a busy summer around the NHL.

The saga between McTavish and the Ducks has been a simmering one for some time. The former third overall pick in the 2021 NHL Draft found himself bouncing around Anaheim's middle-six for much of last season, spending significant stretches on the third line and even finding himself a healthy scratch at times.

Reports suggest the two sides have been at odds over playing time concerns, and a reportedly difficult negotiation process when hammering out his current contract appears to have driven a wedge between the player and the organization that has never fully healed. Now, the Ducks appear ready to move on and find a return that better suits their needs.

The timing creates a fascinating opportunity for the Detroit Red Wings, who have the assets and the roster flexibility to make a run at the 23-year-old. McTavish is entering just the second season of a six-year deal carrying a $7 million annual cap hit, a number that could look like a bargain in short order if he finally takes the next step that many in the hockey world have been waiting on since he was drafted.

The situation in Detroit, however, carries its own layer of urgency as team captain Dylan Larkin recently requested a trade, sending shockwaves through an organization that has spent years building around him as its cornerstone. That development adds a complicated dimension to any potential McTavish pursuit.

On one hand, Larkin himself could conceivably be included in a package sent to Anaheim, giving the Ducks a proven, established center to build around while Detroit recoups significant value in return.

Bookmark The Hockey News Detroit Red Wings team site to stay connected to the latest news, game-day coverage, and player features.

On the other hand, landing a player of McTavish's caliber and upside could be exactly the kind of move that gives Larkin reason to reconsider his request and buy back into what the Red Wings are building. It is a delicate situation for Detroit general manager Steve Yzerman to navigate, but one that could ultimately define the direction of the franchise for years to come.

At six-foot-one and 221 pounds, McTavish brings a physical presence and two-way capability that would fit well in Detroit with or without Larkin in the fold. If Larkin stays, McTavish could slide onto the top line at left wing alongside Larkin and Lucas Raymond, giving that unit a power forward dimension it has at times lacked.

If Larkin is dealt, McTavish could drop down and anchor the second line at center, taking on a more defined role and the opportunity to grow into the player his draft pedigree always suggested he could become.

McTavish has largely settled in as a 40 to 50 point player through his early NHL career, productive but not yet the star many projected when Anaheim selected him third overall five years ago. The Red Wings will need to find a deal that reflects where McTavish is right now while leaving room for the upside that still very much exists.

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June 18, 2026

4 hints about who the Raptors will take in the NBA Draft

TORONTO, ON - June 20 - Dan Tolzman, Toronto Raptors Assistant General Manager & Vice-President, Player Personnel, speaks to media at the OVO Athletic Centre in Toronto, June 20, 2023. (Andrew Francis Wallace/Toronto Star via Getty Images) | Toronto Star via Getty Images

The Raptors have given us some clues as to who they might end up taking with the 19th and 50th picks in this year’s draft.

The 2026 NBA Draft is shaping up to have one of the most seemingly loaded classes in a long time, with its top three of AJ Dybantsa, Cameron Boozer, and Darryn Peterson jostling for first place in a contest that is unlike that of many other years. With the Raptors having received only a low first-rounder along with a second, Toronto’s expectations for this draft have been tempered, but some clarity has emerged regarding the prospects that the Raptors will be targeting.

Earlier this week, Raptors Assistant General Manager Dan Tolzman shed some light on what criteria the franchise is using to make their decisions to evaluate potential draft picks, as well as some thoughts around team construction.

Best man on the board

There has been debate as to whether the Raptors are more in need of a guard or a centre amidst the glut of forwards they currently have. One aspect of criticism towards the Raptors’ selection of Collin Murray-Boyles (over centre Khaman Maluach) was that the Raptors were simply adding players that lacked value to the team because of their position. But, that seems to have more than worked out, with the Raptors picking up an All-Rookie talent who’s been capable of playing the 5 in small ball lineups.

Tolzman has clarified that this philosophy has not changed, and that this year, Raptors will not draft for fit, rather, taking the best player available at 19th pick.

Big man not a sure selection

While the Raptors will have two opportunities to add to their big man roster (and likely will choose to do so), that first round draft pick may not be the centre that the team is so desperate for. However, the AGM has noted that the Raptors are certainly aware of their deficiency, and could look to free agency to bolster their ranks, rather than the draft.

There are a number of big names set to enter free agency, ranging from grizzled veterans like Nikola Vučević and Jusuf Nurkić, to guys on competitive teams potentially looking to change up their rosters, like Robert Williams III and Mitchell Robinson. The Raptors may opt to target some of these players rather than take a lesser prospect with a pick too high in the name of fit.

Workouts complete

The Raptors have, at this point, already worked out everyone who they’ve wanted to, and are currently evaluating those prospects internally. He added, however, that workouts were only a part of the process in making a draft pick. As of June 11th, Josh Lewenberg of TSN has noted the following names as having worked out for the Raptors.

The Raptors continue to hold pre-draft workouts. Among the prospects they've hosted so far, per sources: Meleek Thomas, Bennett Stirtz, Zuby Ejiofor, Keyshawn Hall, Izaiyah Nelson, Peter Suder, Tyler Bilodeau, Michael Ajayi, Bruce Thornton. They own picks # 19 & 50 on June 23/24.
— Josh Lewenberg (@JLew1050) June 11, 2026

Last minute trades?

The NBA Draft is set to begin less than a week from now, and the Raptors have indicated that it is still too early to tell what picks might be available to trade up or down to. “We really like 19,” Tolzman stated, and he also noted that there was “a premium you were probably going to pay” if the a team tried to jump ahead in such a hyped up draft.

He clarified, however, that in the next few days, more information would emerge as to what the market for trading picks might look like, but that information wasn’t on the table yet.

The NBA Draft is scheduled for June 23rd and 24th. The Raptors will draft in both the first and second round at picks 19 and 50.

June 18, 2026

MLB's new radical proposal could eliminate high school draft eligibility

Major League Baseball proposed a sweeping overhaul of its draft eligibility system on Thursday, June 18, including the elimination of high school draftee eligibility as a part of the ongoing collective bargaining negotiations with the MLBPA.

Under the proposal, players would become draft-eligible following their sophomore year of college. Currently, players who enroll in college cannot enter the draft until after their junior season or upon turning 21, whichever comes first.

"Over the last several years, college baseball has undergone a remarkable transformation," MLB said in a statement. "Expanded scholarships, NIL opportunities, revenue sharing and significant investments in facilities and player development have made college baseball an increasingly important pathway that is producing major league-ready talent at an accelerated rate."

MLB today proposed an overhauled domestic amateur-entry system that removes high school players from the draft, makes college players eligible after sophomore year, shortens the draft from 20 to 12 rounds, and cuts bonus pool from current $358.7M to $200M, sources tell ESPN.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) June 18, 2026

The number of high school players selected in the draft has already declined in recent years as college baseball has become more attractive. In 2021, there were 115 high schoolers drafted. By 2025, that number had fallen to 96.

This announcement comes just one month before the 2026 MLB Draft, which will see a number of elite high school players drafted. Of the 334 players invited to the MLB Draft Combine next week, 140 players are in high school.

If approved, the proposal would allow for more high-level talent to enter the college baseball landscape, giving players additional time to develop before entering the professional ranks. At the same time, it would allow college players to enter the draft a year earlier than under current rules, potentially leading to younger rosters across the league.

“Our proposal is designed to build on that momentum to benefit the game at the college, Minor League and Major League levels. By creating a Draft system centered around college-aged players and making most college players eligible one year earlier, more players will benefit from both a college education and an elite development environment while reaching professional baseball – and ultimately the Major Leagues – more quickly."

The proposal also featured several other significant changes, including reducing the draft from its current 20 rounds to 12, establishing an international amateur draft and cutting the draft bonus pool from $358.7 million to $200 million.

Under MLB’s proposed international draft, players residing outside the United States, Puerto Rico and Canada would enter a separate 12-round selection process. The draft would be restricted to players who are at least 18 years old, as opposed to 16 under the current system.

The proposal represents the opening stages of negotiations between MLB and MLBPA. The current CBA isn't set to expire until Dec. 1.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: MLB draft proposal to MLBPA could end the drafting of high school players

June 18, 2026

Mariners Game #76 Preview and Discussion: BAL at SEA, 6/18

Jun 5, 2026; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Seattle Mariners starting pitcher Bryan Woo (22) throws a pitch against the Detroit Tigers in the third inning at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Lon Horwedel-Imagn Images | Lon Horwedel-Imagn Images

The Mariners and Orioles will face off Wednesday to settle both this three-game set and their season series.

Bryan Woo gets the ball for the M’s, and he is likely thrilled to be back home and making a start in the friendly confines of T-Mobile Park. This season, Woo’s home/away splits have differed drastically, with better performance in almost every major statistical category at home. He features a 2.07 FIP in Seattle, in contrast to 4.28 everywhere else. We’ll see how that factors in against an Orioles lineup that pieced him up for seven runs in his last start in Baltimore only a week ago.

The O’s will start righty Shane Baz, who the Mariners did not face in their four-game set last week.

Lineups

Josh Naylor is back in the lineup after missing a couple of games with a wrist issue; he’ll be closely monitored to see how he responds. Mitch Garver will do the catching, while Cal Raleigh gets a DH day in his third game back from the injured list.

Injury updates

Julio Rodríguez is being given a rest day after leaving last night’s game with a hamstring spasm, though he could be available off the bench. He was active during pregame today.

Julio Rodríguez did some agility work in the outfield and moved well. He’s now on his way to the batting cage.

Dan Wilson reiterated what he said last night — that it’s a day-to-day situation.
— Daniel Kramer (@DKramer_) June 18, 2026

Luke Raley has been dealing with back tightness, but it’s the flu that’s now keeping him away from the team; he is expected to be back at the ballpark tomorrow. In addition, Cooper Criswell received a PRP injection today and will be down 2-3 weeks before he can begin building back up for a return to the roster.

Game Information

First Pitch: 1:10 p.m. PDT

TV:Mariners.TV, with Aaron Goldsmith, Angie Mentink and sideline reporter Ryan Rowland-Smith

Radio: 710 AM Seattle Sports, with Rick Rizzs and Shannon Drayer

June 18, 2026

Thursday afternoon Orioles game thread: at Mariners, 4:10 ET

May 4, 2026; Bronx, New York, USA; Baltimore Orioles pitcher Shane Baz (34) delivers a pitch during the first inning against the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images | Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

The Orioles’ first two games on the West Coast this season have brought mixed results. Game one in Seattle was a stinker for the offense, which generated just one hit and no runs after the first inning in a lamentable 3-1 loss. But the Birds rebounded last night with a well-played 5-3 win that featured a couple of dingers and a Kyle Bradish masterpiece to even the series.

A win tonight to take the rubber game would be a boon for the Orioles, especially as they head into a three-game series tomorrow against the two-time defending champion Dodgers. And it’s not an unreasonable request. The O’s get a rematch against the Mariners’ Bryan Woo, whom they clobbered at Camden Yards last week. The Orioles saddled Woo with a career-worst seven runs, doing most of their damage in a six-run third inning that featured homers by Colton Cowser and Pete Alonso. I’m not expecting lightning to strike twice, but maybe the Birds can at least scratch a couple of runs against Woo, even if they don’t torch him again.

The O’s are using the same lineup against Woo as they did last time, except subbing in the scalding hot Blaze Alexander instead of Coby Mayo at third. I approve. On the mound for the Orioles is Shane Baz, who sweated through a laborious five-inning effort against the Padres in Baltimore last Friday. Perhaps Baz will find the more temperate environs of T-Mobile Park to be more up his alley. He won’t have to deal with M’s star center fielder Julio Rodríguez, who left last night’s game with hamstring spasms and is out of the lineup today.

Orioles lineup:

LF Taylor Ward
SS Gunnar Henderson
DH Adley Rutschman
1B Pete Alonso
C Samuel Basallo
RF Leody Taveras
CF Colton Cowser
3B Blaze Alexander
2B Jackson Holliday

RHP Shane Baz

Mariners lineup:

3B J.P. Crawford
DH Cal Raleigh
1B Josh Naylor
RF Dominic Canzone
2B Cole Young
SS Colt Emerson
C Mitch Garver
CF Victor Robles
LF Miles Mastrobuoni

RHP Bryan Woo

June 18, 2026

Report: Former Senator Alex Formenton Now Officially An Unrestricted Free Agent

The Senators have reportedly given up the NHL playing rights to Alex Formenton.

According to Postmedia's Bruce Garrioch, who quoted league sources, Formenton was removed from the club's free agent list last month after Stephen Halliday was re-signed.

So that means Formenton's status flips from restricted to unrestricted free agent.

That probably doesn't change a lot for the 26-year-old, whose NHL rights could have been acquired from the Sens for even the smallest of compensation.

Steve Warne and Gregg Kennedy discuss on Sens Nation how the NCAA eligibility rules can complicate NHL Draft evaulation.

Formenton was one of five players involved in a sexual assault trial that concluded last summer. All five were declared not guilty on all charges, and the judge stated in her findings that she did not find the complainant's evidence to be "credible or reliable."

The Senators announced last year that they wouldn't be bringing Formenton back and set about trying to trade his rights. But he hasn't played an NHL game in four years and now seems quite comfortable playing in Switzerland, putting up 23 points in 42 games this season.

Formenton is truly one of the game's fastest skaters and was chosen with the 2017 second-round pick the Senators got when they traded Curtis Lazar to Calgary. While Formenton played in parts of four seasons with the Sens, he only played one full NHL season. He scored 18 goals and 32 points in 79 games in 2021-22.

After being cleared of all charges, Formenton, Dillon Dube, Michael McLeod, and Cal Foote were then cleared to play by the NHL, but only Carter Hart has found NHL work again, helping lead the Vegas Golden Knights to within two victories of the Stanley Cup this spring.

By Steve Warne
The Hockey News

Why Haven't The Senators Re-Signed Claude Giroux Yet?Despite putting up the same numbers as he did the year before, the veteran star remains without a contract.

June 18, 2026

Canadiens’ Suzuki In Elite Company

It’s been a great season for Montreal Canadiens’ captain Nick Suzuki. Not only did he lead his team to the playoffs for a second consecutive season, but he also scored 101 points, reaching the 100-point mark for the first time in his career. He then helped the Habs to win their first two series of the Kent Hughes-Jeff Gorton era, putting up 16 points in 19 games and fulfilling key defensive missions. Over the last few years, he has established himself as Martin St-Louis’ go-to guy in most circumstances.

It used to be that his skills and efficiency were only recognized in Montreal. Still, his participation in the Olympics and in the 4 Nations Face-Off really opened some eyes, just like the ringing endorsement he got from Tampa Bay Lightning and Team Canada coach John Cooper. As a result, he managed to capture the first Frank J. Selke trophy of his career as the league’s top defensive forward.

Canadiens Urged To Tread Carefully
Canadiens Predicted To Trade Soaring Prospect To Land Center
Potential Canadiens Draft Target: Juho Piiparinen

This week, Sportsnet released an interesting ranking, showing which players put up the most points in the NHL when adding up the regular season and the playoffs, and while Suzuki doesn’t top the list, he’s not far behind. Despite being eliminated in the first round with his Edmonton Oilers, Connor McDavid leads the way with 144 points in 88 games. He’s followed by Nathan MacKinnon, who made it to the Western Conference Final with his Colorado Avalanche before being swept by the Vegas Golden Knights, but still has 142 points in 93 games to show for it. Nikita Kucherov, whose Lightning was taken down by the Habs in the first round, follows suit in third place with 136 points in 83 games.

Suzuki lands just at the foot of the podium, in fourth place with 117 points in 101 games, an impressive offensive output for a player who’s often tasked with defensive missions. It will be interesting to see what the centerman can come up with as an encore next season. Ever since joining the league, his production has trended up. Have we seen the ceiling yet? It appears doubtful. It stands to reason that if and when the Canadiens have a more menacing second line, Suzuki will have more breathing room on the ice, and his line won’t be seen as the only one opponents must contain.

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June 18, 2026

Recapping the Knicks championship parade

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JUNE 18: Jalen Brunson #11 and Karl-Anthony Towns #32 of the New York Knicks celebrate with the Larry O'Brien Championship Trophy during the New York Knicks Championship ticker tape parade and victory rally celebrating winning the 2026 NBA Finals on June 18, 2026 in New York City. The New York Knicks defeated the San Antonio Spurs in five games to win their first NBA Championship in 53 years. (Photo by Angelina Katsanis/Getty Images) | Getty Images

It’s been one hell of a week for the Knicks and their fans.

From winning their first championship in 53 years ago last Saturday, to the countless media appearances earlier this week, it’s been a multi-day celebration of the team, the players, and their incredible accomplishment. And on a very hyped up cloudy Thursday morning, all of culminated in a what may go down as the most passion-filled and memorable parade in the city’s history. But before we start turning the page on the memorable and historic season and look ahead to the offseason, let’s quickly relive the glorious parade.

As I’m sure many of you saw, the streets were packed long before the parade even began. There were pictures and videos of fans lining up as early as 4:00am. And by 7:00am, the entirety of downtown Manhattan looked like pure pandemonium. Streets were packed to the brim as people lined up shoulder to shoulder in queues that reportedly weren’t moving at all. The NYPD, even in their great numbers, looked outnumbered and under resourced. And people were stuck underground in subway stations with nowhere to go.

The Knicks' NBA Championship parade looks INSANE 🤯🗽 pic.twitter.com/fUe1Vfm6IO
— TNT Sports U.S. (@TNTSportsUS) June 18, 2026

At 7:28, the NYPD announced that the viewing pens were already full and that no more people would be allowed into the viewing area. So fans ended up climbing street signs, and lamp posts, and even found themselves on top of scaffolding. And when those spots quickly became occupied, supporters fled to adjacent streets just to get a taste of the insanity ready to unfold.

In true New Yorker, and Knicks fashion, the parade started late. Despite the scheduled 10:00am starting time, floats didn’t get going until a some time had passed. At around 10:10, the players finally started to arrive via busses and made their way to their respective floats. Karl-Anthony Towns made a few fans’ days by allowing them to touch the Eastern Conference Championship trophy. Rick Brunson carried the Larry O’Brien trophy. Mikal Bridges, as expected, was seen with his dog while wearing a Pacome Dadiet jersey, and Mitchell Robinson showed up in his truck as promised.

Mitchell Robinson's famous truck is decked out and ready for the Knicks' Championship Parade 😍 pic.twitter.com/MI2Ld3L1g2
— NBA (@NBA) June 18, 2026

Some of the key players like Jalen Brunson, Towns, and Josh Hart had their own floats. They were accompanied by friends and family while Brunson’s float also had Spike Lee, and Mariska Hargitay. Other players rode with teammates. And many of the former players shared a float together. Carmelo Anthony, Larry Johnson, John Starks, Stephon Marbury, Steve Novak, and even Jerome “Junkyard Dog” Williams, among others, were seen together, while Waly “Clyde” Frazier and Patrick Ewing got their own cars, deservedly so.

Walt "Clyde" Frazier taking it all in 👋 pic.twitter.com/Q3LwZOKzTK
— NBA (@NBA) June 18, 2026

Head coach Mike Brown was seen early on with a Knicks shirt that had a number 10 on the back with the word weeks under it, referencing the 10 week sacrifice James Dolan asked his team to make. Towns, who shared a float with Zohran Mamdani (also seen with Jordyn Woods’ lucky handbag) for parts of the parade, was seen dancingalong to Knicks fan, Fat Joe’s “Lean Back” early on. Trey Jemison III was tasked with being the trophy bearer for the NBA Cup trophy. Ariel Hukporti, one of the main stars of the post-Finals press conference, took center stage as he interviewed MSG’s Alan Hahn. Hart lit a cigar, hopped of the float, and walked along the edge of the street to celebrate with the fans with DMX’s “Ruff Ryder’s Anthem” blasting in the background.

Josh Hart with the people 🧡💙

(via jhart/IG) pic.twitter.com/d8xvCvhjp5
— SNY Knicks (@sny_knicks) June 18, 2026

All while that was going on, Tyler Kolek was involved in an unexpected turn of events. The second year guard was celebrating with the fans but when he tried to get back onto the float, he was stopped by security after being mistaken for being a fan.

Brunson, known as a stoic and quiet person publicly showed his lighter side all day. When interviewed by MSG’s Monica McNutt, he was seen singing, and even threw a slight jab during the City Hall portion of the ceremony (more on that later).

Landry Shamet, a known photography hobbyist, made sure to take plenty of pictures during the parade. Bridges brought along a vintage camcorder to record everything. Jose Alvarado, Jordan Clarkson, were very obviously hyped up as they took turns addressing the crowd with mics, running up to them to high five them and shake hands.

🗣️ DEUCE ✌🏾✋🏾🏆🤚🏾😆🫡✊🏾 pic.twitter.com/YtJdxhZc3F
— OYOMA MCCARLEY (@yodafresh1) June 18, 2026

Jeremy Sochan spent pretty much the entirety of the ceremony shirtless. And Deuce McBride was met with very loud and deep “Deeuuuuce” chants every step of the way. And what about OG Anunoby? Well, he celebrated exactly how everyone expected. Calmly, and quietly. New York’s playoff hero stood at the very front of his float with subtle waves to both sides, but never leaving the float or doing anything drastic.

Los fans enloquecen cuando ven a OG Anunoby pic.twitter.com/3TwIdBQSyf
— Pasion Basket (@PasionBasketNBA) June 18, 2026

As the floats slowly but surely made their way to City Hall, fans from all over the globe got to see just how unique this city is. Someone ordered Chick-fil-A during the parade, and actually got their food. A couple that had been engaged for 53 years tied the knot at the parade with the bride wearing a custom Knicks-themed dress. Fans threw around a Victor Wembanyama-dressed doll, and while others had signs of him. And (fake) Elmo even made a surprise appearance.

The Knicks finally won a championship and this couple decided it was finally time to get married.

After a 53-year engagement, they are tying the knot on parade day, with the bride (@with_lovestephaniedenise) wearing a custom dress she designed herself. pic.twitter.com/5ZIQlFA8fu
— Spectrum News NY1 (@NY1) June 18, 2026

When the players and coaches finally reached City Hall, the presentation began with a passionate speech from the mayor. Mamdani perfectly encapsulated what it has meant to be a Knicks fan, just how hard the times have been, why this team perfectly personified the city, and much more. He shouted out recent former players Julius Randle, RJ Barrett, Immanuel Quickley, and former coach, Tom Thibodeau. He brought back memories of Willis Reed, Bernard King, Ewing, Starks, Anthony, Jeremy Lin, and Nate Robinson . But even reached all the way back and pulled out names like Ronaldo Balkman, Mardy Collins, Langston Galloway, and recalled Toney Douglas’ at the time, franchise record-setting nine threes in one game.

here is Mamdani's entire speech at the Knicks parade, which is easily the best speech I've ever heard at an event of this sort pic.twitter.com/FiTxy81Yq3
— Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) June 18, 2026

The mayor then harped on how the city was brought together, not by force, but by “pure, unfiltered joy”. He then fired up the crowd by bringing up the 0.4% chance the Knicks had to complete the 29-point game four comeback against the Spurs and how it defined the ability of each player to do the unthinkable and stand up to the challenge, much like the very city it represents. “What is New York if not your back up against the wall? What is New York if not 99.6% of the world stacked against you? Who are New Yorkers if not people who hear those odds and smile? Who look at a 0.4% chance of success and ask, why are you giving me a head start? This is our city. This is our team. For 53 years, we watched. For 53 years we waited. Now, we’ve won.”

It was an inspiring speech to say the least that got fans emotional. It reminded them how difficult the task was, and just how impressive the task was. But it also was yet another chance to appreciate this team for all of the handwork, the sacrifice, and the incredible way in which they represented the city and the fans.

After a short, and rather odd speech from James Dolan, the star of the show, the captain of the team, and the MVP of the Finals took center stage.

After a loud round of cheers and applause, Brunson took it all in before thanking Dolan, and the front office for believing in him. He followed it up by thanking his teammates for believing in him, and then thanked the coaching staff and training staff. And before continuing with the rest of his speech, Brunson let out a very relatable, “Damn, New York we did it. We really did it.”

"Damn, New York we did it. We really did it." #AlwaysKnicks pic.twitter.com/oedhuuj0lD
— KNICKS ON MSG (@KnicksMSGN) June 18, 2026

But maybe in the highlight of the entire parade, Brunson finally addressed the elephant in the room in his own way. He didn’t call any particular former WNBA players, reporters, or pundits out. Yet Brunson did have something to say about all of the doubters. “There’s a lot of people who have a lot of negative stuff to say.” Brunson said. “There’s a lot of people who have their own opinions. But when you prove them wrong, you don’t have to say (expletive) to them. Nah, they don’t deserve it.”

LET'S HEAR IT FOR NEW YORK.

Alicia Keys performs Empire State of Mind at City Hall! 🎶 pic.twitter.com/mFlF8uR97U
— SNY Knicks (@sny_knicks) June 18, 2026

The historic and memorable celebration ended with Alicia Keyes performing a live rendition of “Empire State of Mind”. To some, the championship had felt surreal before today. To others, they’ve let it sink in since Saturday. Regardless of where you land on that spectrum though, today, despite the chaos and the unfortunately imperfect handling of the parade, was a fit celebration. It was a the ultimate toast. And a thank you to a team that truly was New York.

While I’m not sure how others felt exactly, I will say, there was a sense of bittersweetness. The players and fans will still likely celebrate for a while longer, as they should. After a 53 year wait, the celebration should be loud and long. But it also felt like the beginning of the end, at least for the 2025-26 season. The team may look different in a matter of a few months. And while this championship will be enough for many of the fans, next season brings on a new set of challenges and goals that will ultimately reawaken a lot of the same feelings of stress, anxiety and hunger. But for now, as the mayor, and the players have continued to say, enjoy it folks. Bask in the glory. Talk your trash. And enjoy every second of it.

June 18, 2026

Luka Dončić has had ‘constant communication’ with Lakers, wants ‘A-list center’

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - MAY 11: Luka Doncic #77 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts from the bench against the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game Four of the Second Round of the NBA Western Conference Playoffs at Crypto.com Arena on May 11, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Luke Hales/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The build-up to the Lakers’ 2026 offseason started before Luka Dončić even joined the Lakers, but his arrival placed a larger microscope over what is about to unfold.

After a season-and-a-half of cobbling together pieces to try to maximize Luka as best as they can, the Lakers’ front office has books as clean as they’ll ever have, multiple draft picks to trade and a massive opportunity in front of them. Now, they head into a summer likely to bring big changes.

While it’s the likes of President of Basketball Operations Rob Pelinka and those around him who will be under pressure, this will be a collaborative effort between the front office and Luka. As Dave McMenamin of ESPN reported on Tuesday, even with Luka back in Slovenia this summer, the two sides have stayed in regular contact.

Doncic is spending the summer in Slovenia with his daughters, Gabriela and Olivia, but sources close to him told ESPN he is in “constant communication” with Lakers president of basketball operations and general manager Rob Pelinka and coach JJ Redick.

From the moment Luka joined the franchise, his input has been not just received, but sought after. Days after they traded for him, the front office met with Luka, who expressed his desire for a center. It was right after that conversation that the team initially traded for Mark Williams.

The problem is that, 16 months later, the Lakers are still searching for that center. And, as reported by McMenamin, that remains at the top of Luka’s wish list.

While the 27-year-old Doncic is preparing for another season squarely in his prime, he has made one roster preference clear to Pelinka and Redick, sources said.
It’s the same one he made in the days after he first arrived in Los Angeles 16 months ago.
“Luka’s first and foremost desire is an A-list center,” the source said.

It really feels like the Lakers have to move past the days of searching for the bargain option at center and pay up to get a top option. Having a genuine, lob-catching, rim-protecting center that Luka can get the best out of not only opens up the offense for him, but the team as a whole. It really changes the identity of the team and should be not just Luka’s top priority, but the team’s as well.

There are any number of ways the team can go about acquiring that type of player, whether through free agency, trade or the draft. But this summer has been a long time coming and the Lakers should be well-prepared for what’s to come.

You can follow Jacob on Twitter at @JacobRude or on Bluesky at @jacobrude.bsky.social.