Twelve circular neon orange portals appear out of thin air. The citrus hues fly off the spheres’ edges in sparkling fashion, rotating in a clockwise direction as the views of various cities from across the U.S. grow wider and wider. Bellowing horns in the background build to a crescendo. You’ve probably seen this scene before, in a movie theater in 2019. Except this isn’t a movie: These are the greatest hoopers in the United States of America.

While USA Basketball representatives flew around the country presenting each player on the 2024 Men’s National Team with their USA threads in April, users on X flooded the timeline with the only comparison that made any conceivable sense: a 20-second clip from Avengers: Endgame.

In the film’s climax, the full totality of the Avengers team appears, journeying across the universe to join Captain America for one final showdown against Thanos. One by one, the greatest heroes in the galaxy stand shoulder to shoulder. It’s the perfect parallel for this year’s squad: one last ride with the best basketball powers ever assembled.

The USA Basketball’s Men’s National Team has descended on Paris with the sheer force of the Infinity Gauntlet. When the official roster was announced in mid-April, the basketball community erupted in excitement, and rightfully so. We couldn’t stop talking about it either. This amount of talent, all on one team, makes them the modern day Avengers: LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Stephen Curry, Anthony Davis, Derrick White, Joel Embiid, Jrue Holiday, Bam Adebayo, Tyrese Haliburton, Devin Booker, Anthony Edwards and Jayson Tatum.

On paper, the roster is stacked. For the first time in USA Basketball history, the Men’s National Team will feature four former NBA MVPs: Durant, James, Embiid and Curry. Then there are the team’s 11 combined Olympic appearances, 10 total Gold medals, three FIBA World Cup titles, seven returning Olympians and a combined 84 NBA All-Star selections…yeah, the U.S. ain’t playing fair.

When USA Basketball’s Men’s National Team Managing Director Grant Hill set out to achieve a seemingly simple yet complicated task—construct the best basketball team in the world—what he put together was a 12-man roster, which will be led by head coach Steve Kerr, that can hold their own against one of the toughest Olympic fields in recent memory.

The path to glory and the highest view from atop the podium won’t be easy. It never is. But then again *checks roster* we haven’t seen anything like this before.

It’s been 12 years since we last saw LeBron James bounding down the court with the letters “USA” stamped across his chest. Olympic memories of tomahawk dunks, out-of-nowhere alley-oops and utter dominance from baseline to baseline haven’t been a reality for more than a decade.

James elected to rest his body and opt out of the 2016 and 2020 Games. Now, at 39 years old and with a catalog of accolades longer than Santa Claus’ wish list, he’s back. And 2024 is a different story; it’s his one last shot at Gold.

This isn’t the same LeBron who tore through London while debuting the legendary Nike LeBron X all those years ago, but don’t get it twisted. The explosiveness is still there, the low-post game is omnipresent, the court vision is still staggering and anyone can get clamped at any time. Coming off his 21st season—where he shot a career-high 41 percent from three—LeBron’s refined touch and years’ worth of wisdom will be the soul of the pack. And right next to him will be Kevin Durant, netting jumper after jumper.

The Olympics are KD’s playground. Every four years, the best scorer on the planet toys with defenders and lights nets on fire with a FIBA-certified ball. Durant boasts the most experience of this team with three Gold medals on his résumé, a journey which first started when he was the team’s go-to bucket-getter after stamping his arrival in 2012 at the London Games. He’s got the USA Basketball record books on lock: all-time leader in points (453), scoring average (19.8 ppg), we could go on and on. If this summer goes as planned, Durant will walk away as the most decorated player in USA Basketball men’s history with a record four Olympic Golds.

Stephen Curry, however, is shooting for his first. “We obviously want to go get the Gold, and for this being my first experience, I’m super excited,” Curry told Inside the NBA in mid-April. “I’m 36 now and I don’t know if I’ll have another one, so this is definitely the year.”

After back-to-back Finals runs in ’15 and ’16 and the continuation of the Covid pandemic well into 2021, Curry, much like James, has sat out the past two Olympics to rest and heal some nagging injuries. In the meantime, the country has patiently waited to see him reign down threes against the world’s best.

It may be his debut, but Curry has been instrumental in the team’s success on the international stage, winning Gold at the FIBA World Cup in 2010 and 2014. Now, the future Hall of Famer will get to check “Olympics” off his bucket list.

Anthony Davis was just 19 when he was selected to the 2012 USA Men’s National Team. After taking home the Gold, the five-time All-Defensive Team honoree is now responsible for manning the paint for the U.S. alongside his first-time Olympic teammate, Joel Embiid.

Embiid could have played for France—where he has citizenship—or Cameroon, his native country, but instead, the 2023-24 NBA MVP chose to play for the USA.

“After talking to my family, I knew it had to be [USA Basketball]. I want to play with my brothers in the League. I want to play for my fans because they’ve been incredible since the day I came here,” Embiid posted to X in October of 2023. “But most of all, I want to honor my son who was born in the U.S. I want my boy to know I played my first Olympics for him.”

This year’s team has a bunch of returning members from the USA Basketball’s last Gold medal squad, including one of the most underrated players in the game: Bam Adebayo. A point guard in the open floor, a small forward in the mid-range, a center on the block—the 2020 Olympian is a cheat code in international competition. While Bam, AD and Embiid preside down low, Jrue Holiday, another returning member of the team, lurks on the perimeter.

Holiday will pick your pocket, sneak into the passing lane and sit with the best of them. For years, the two-time NBA All-Star has been the glue for championship-winning and contending teams. He plays to win, and he leads by action. He’s tasked with much of the same in tandem with defensive stalwart Derrick White, who joins Embiid and Curry as the third first-timer on the Olympic team. The NBA is filled with a plethora of scorers, but the selection of various tacticians assembled for the U.S. Men’s National Team is what takes this roster from Gold to Certified Platinum.

“This guy next to me will be the next one,” Kevin Durant told The Boston Herald’s Mark Murphy after becoming USA Basketball’s all-time leader in points in July 2021. The “guy” he was pointing to was Jayson Tatum.

Tatum vividly remembers the 2020 team’s first scrimmage against the USA Select Team in Las Vegas. Someone kicked him the ball on the wing and, instead of getting his, the 23-year-old deferred to Durant who was to his right.

“I remember he got mad at me,” Tatum told Draymond Green on “The Draymond Green Show” in April 2022. “He was like, Yo, don’t look to me. Be yourself. I need you to kill. And I was like damn…he needs me to do me on this team.” So that’s what he did.

After dropping their first contest of the 2020 Tokyo Games to France, the U.S. won its second game in a 54-point blowout against Iran, and then in the third, Tatum led the U.S. squad with a team-high 27 points on 10-16 shooting from the field in a win against the Czech Republic. Point taken. The next talisman had emerged.

And so have Anthony Edwards, Devin Booker and Tyrese Haliburton. With Durant, LeBron and Curry gearing up for one last ride this summer, USA Basketball is looking toward the future of the country’s success on the world stage. It starts with building the next generation of flag bearers.

This past NBA season served as Ant-Man’s official inauguration as the League’s next superstar. When the offense falls flat and energy begins to dissipate, Edwards will smirk as he plans his next jaw-dropping display of athleticism that will ignite a 20-0 run. Haliburton’s arrival extends the country’s long line of offensive orchestrators and visionary passers in transition while Booker’s devotion to the mid-range and mastery of the iso routinely makes for instant offense in the most unlikely scenarios. The next generation of USA Basketball players is a not-so-subtle reminder of why this squad is so damn exciting. Everyone can make their claim for playing time. This isn’t just a 12-man roster, it’s a 12-man deep rotation.

The schedule will be grueling, but the experience will be unforgettable. Memories will be made, legacies enshrined and the next chapter of USA Basketball will be written. Meanwhile, Durant wants to see complete dominance.

“I want to really make a statement on how dominant our players are,” Durant said in his Boardroom cover story in February. “Like 40, 50-point wins. I want to do that.”

SLAM PRESENTS USA BASKETBALL IS AVAILABLE NOW

Photos via Getty Images.

The post Gold Rush: Previewing the 2024 USA Men’s National Team Ahead of the Paris Olympics appeared first on SLAM.

This year’s voting style for the All-star League Fits was unique by mirroring the NBA’s voting process, with the ballot being split up by conference *and* frontcourt/backcourt. In the East, layering has been a critical style choice for stars like the Jays and Tyrese Haliburton while wearing many hats: beanies, fitted’s, and cowboy hats. Meanwhile, in the West, stars like SGA and Jordan Clarkson have been showing out in the tunnel, as they always do, with their effortlessly cool style, bold accessories, and choice of shades.

Here’s this year’s LeagueFits All-Stars:

That’s back-to-back starting selections on the LeagueFits All-Star teams for Jaylen Brown.

Is there anyone in the League whose outfits are more talked about more than Tyrese Haliburton’s? He’s in a class of his own right now.

Who said there’s no waves in Philadelphia? The first-ever LeagueFits MVP snags a starting spot on this year’s starting 5.

Sometimes less is (a lot) more. Jordan Poole led the entire Eastern conference in votes this season.

Jayson Tatum led the Eastern frontcourt in voting (and by a lot, too).

Save any and all other nicknames, after back-to-back style All-Star selections, he’s officially Thanasfits Antetokounmpo.

Aesthetic this, aesthetic that, nobody’s aesthetic is as defined and consistent as Bruce Brown’s. (Who says cowboys can’t come from Massachusetts?)

Nic Claxton’s consistently been NYC’s best-dressed player despite being nearly 7-feet tall. Well deserving of his first LeagueFits All-Star selection.

Buddy Hield’s been consistently throwing fits for a few seasons. Excited to see it continue in Philly.

Once upon a time, Kyle Kuzma was the first-ever LeagueFits Rookie of the Year. He clearly hasn’t slown down at all since then.

Y’all know scary Terry was the first box checked on my ballot.

A guy who dresses how he’s feeling, there’s few guys in the league with the same variety and range as Myles Turner.

It’s been a season of straight heaters since Bol Bol arrived in the desert. (Oh, and he’s been putting in work on the court since the turn of the new year, too).

The Alexander’s are officially the LeagueFits royal family. Nickel Alexander-Walker joins Shai Gilgeous-Alexander as a western conference starter, beating out an absolutely stacked ballot feat. Two former LeagueFits MVP’s. 

 Yeah, nobody had more votes than this guy. It’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s world and we’re all living on it.

It’s not easy to get dressed night in and night out when you’re a 7-footer with the largest sneaker size in the association, but Karl Anthony Towns has managed to do it. Shout out to the on and off-court All-Star.

Jalen Williams is the THIRD member of the Oklahoma City Thunder to be voted a LeagueFits All-Star, and the second to be voted onto the starting lineup. S/O dub.

You’ll be hard-pressed to find someone as consistently dressed as Devin Booker.

The host of last year’s on-court All-Stars is back. No LeagueFits discussion is complete without Jordan Clarkson in the conversation.

The first (of many) LeagueFits accolades for Lu Dort. One of the best-dressed players on the league’s coolest team.

The only thing better than winning your first ring is being voted as a LeagueFits All-Star for the first time.

LeBron’s in the GOAT conversation. He’s a business mogul. He’s a husband and father. He’s maybe the busiest basketball player ever, and he’s still found time to craft the best slate of pregame style we’ve ever seen from him in his career.

Jarred Vanderbilt made our All-LeagueFits first team last spring, it’s not a surprise that Los Angeles’ best-dressed added another style All-Star to his resume.

Russell Westbrook’s wardrobe is gonna be carved into the NBA style Mt. Rushmore when he retires. In the meantime, tho, he has more fits to get off (and create).

The post The 2024 LeagueFits All-Stars: Full List appeared first on SLAM.

At this exact moment in time, there are “a million things” running through his head. He can’t really focus, so instead, he dials in on the game ahead. Having just come off an injury that cost him 10 games, he goes out and drops 26 in a 1-point loss. When his on-court obligations are done and he has a moment to himself, he thinks back to what he heard hours prior. He’s an All-Star. 

“I had to kind of take a step back after the game and really breathe and sit in the moment and really appreciate how far I’ve come. [It was] definitely a special moment for me and my family,” he tells SLAM over the phone.

SLAM Presents All-Star Vol 4: Tyrese Haliburton is available now!

For an Oshkosh, WI, kid who was a three-star recruit in high school to become an NBA All-Star seems otherworldly. But this is Tyrese Haliburton we’re talking about. His game has always been deemed unconventional. His Midwest charm has him come off as more of a homie than a celebrity—not just to fans, but to the media, too. When you combine exceptional talent with an unmatched work ethic and an ever-present smile, it’s no surprise that good things come his way. Really, really good things, even when, at times, things have seemed out of his control, like the midseason trade that sent him to Indiana in the first place, or even injuries. Today, he’s a walking double-double machine, one of the most fun players to watch in the L and beloved in the Hoosier State and beyond. 

I think the city of Indianapolis has been yearning for a guy that they can relate to and help lead the organization.

– Tyrese Haliburton

For Haliburton, Indiana isn’t just where he plays—it’s home. He’s embracing the city and the people and often takes old teammates or friends who are in town to his go-to spot, Savor, a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant in Carmel. “I think people see me as, like, one of them,” he says. “I think that people can see that I can relate to the way that they grew up and the weather they grew up in and all that stuff. And then I think, like, [people say] ‘Midwest nice’ is a real thing and who I am as a person.”

And just as he’s shown Indy love, the city has shown him love right back. When we talked to Caitlin Cooper, an Indiana native and one of the brightest basketball minds in the game, who also runs a blog called “Basketball, She Wrote,” she admitted that Hoosiers haven’t always been the most excited to cheer on their hometown team…until now. 

“I can only speak to my experience, but basketball means a lot to Indiana,” she told us last summer. “But I wouldn’t say that NBA basketball has always meant a lot to Indiana. When I was growing up—I grew up watching the NBA because that’s what my dad watched—you would always say that’s where the best basketball players in the world play. That’s where I want to learn from. So that’s what we watched. [But] I didn’t know any other Pacer fans. And now I can tell you that you’re starting to sense a shift—I’ve talked to people who would have never talked to me about the Pacers before, and they’re like, I gotta get on the ground floor [of] this. They’re building something special and that Tyrese Haliburton is a really entertaining guy to watch.”

Haliburton feels it, too.

“I think the city of Indianapolis has been yearning for a guy that they can relate to and help lead the organization,” he says. “So I think that’s just been a really natural fit for me, [it’s] why I fit so well.”

Haliburton is playing even better than he was last season; he’s currently averaging 21.8 points and 11.7 assists per game, both career highs. His goal, as he emphasized in the cover story of SLAM 245, has always been to win, especially now. Accolades aside, he’s playing for something bigger than himself: “I think that for me, individually, I’ve accomplished what most people want to in their careers. I’ve gotten a big contract. I’ve been an All Star. I’ve done a lot for myself individually—more than I ever thought was possible. And so, now it’s about team success and wanting to win.”

And yet, the awards keep piling on. At press time, his name is sitting at the top of the All-Star voting returns for guards in the East, and the timing couldn’t be more perfect as Indianapolis hosts the All-Star Game for the first time since 1985. The city is hyped, and so is its franchise star, who will be suiting up in the game yet again.  

“I think you always hear people say, It’s not just basketball in Indiana. Like, it’s really a lifestyle, you know?” Haliburton says. “I think that’s what people are excited about: you see the court in the airport, how cool that is? That’s just a microcosm of how excited the city is. The cool part is that I think people who aren’t from Indy or [have] never been to Indy don’t understand how capable Indiana is of running large events. 

“Indiana has hosted Super Bowls, Final Fours. It’s more than capable. So, that’s the exciting part, too. I’m excited to see the city have success and people get out a little bit more in the city than they’re used to.” He also adds: “I’m really excited for the younger generation here, I think that’ll be cool for them to see.” 

When we put Tyrese on the cover of SLAM 245, the cover read “No Ceilings,” and now, looking back, it seems almost like a prophecy. Here he is, a star player reaching new heights yet again, putting on for a city that’s about to host the biggest weekend in basketball. We can only imagine how much he’ll be smiling come All-Star Sunday, when he hears his name called yet again. 

COP YOUR ALL-STAR VOL. 4 COVER TEES

Photos via Getty Images. Portrait by Marcus Stevens.

The post Tyrese Haliburton Reflects on NBA All-Star and What the Game Truly Means to Indy appeared first on SLAM.

Haliburton’s music education began in the passenger seat of his dad’s (John) car. Growing up, friends and family would make CDs for John filled with his favorite hits, like Akon’s “Locked Up,” which Haliburton can recite word for word. “The first song and the last song were always the same, so if he had a song that was his song at the time, he would play it 24/7,” Tyrese tells SLAM. “I listened to a lot of old school music, and I think the love for that comes from being in the car with my dad growing up.”

When he was 8, surrounded by the influence of his older brother and his friends, Haliburton was put onto Drake and J. Cole, both of whom were in the midst of their early mixtape days. Well before the Grammy award-winning artists reached their prime and stood at the pinnacle of the rap game, Haliburton was bopping his head to their earliest hits.

For first-time All-Star, SLAM cover star and music guru Tyrese Haliburton, he’s officially stamped the NBA with a new pace of play, relative to the groundbreaking release of Drake’s 2011 Take Care. But sitting inside of a vehicle with the music blasting hasn’t been the young point guard’s primary listening experience as of late, instead opting for the recently released Bose Ultra Open Earbuds.

As his daily routine revolves around traveling, practices, shootarounds and training sessions, Haliburton’s taste in music has shifted from playing his favorites on the aux in the car to the superior quality of Bose’s latest innovation that comfortably wraps around his ears.

“I’ve always wanted to wear earbuds when I’m working out or when I’m shooting, but I’m always scared they’re gonna fall out,” Haliburton says. “I like that they hook around your ear, that allows them to stay in your ear. You still get the sound, but that way whoever I’m shooting with, I can hear what they’re saying and still be locked in and listening to music at the same time.”

Earlier this season, Haliburton was able to put the earbuds to the test during his pre-game routine. He immediately noticed how comfortably they fit while refusing to shake loose from his ears despite running through a number of step-backs, spin moves and pick & roll scenarios. Up until that point, he had steered away from rocking earbuds on the court with trainers and coaches running him through drills. Now, he has a product he can trust.

“I like to know what’s around me, my surroundings and things like that,” Haliburton tells SLAM. “When I’m with my teammates and I’ve got my earbuds in, I still want to be able to hear what people are talking about.”

Launched on February 15, the Bose Ultra Open Earbuds lay down another bridge for the vast connections between the game and fashion. Featuring an innovative, cuff-shaped design that boasts soft edges and a luminous finish, the white earbuds have become a staple in Haliburton’s daily life.

“I like that they’re unique in the way that they look and they’re not how everything else looks; I think that’s what makes them cool for me,” Haliburton says.

Music means memories for Tyrese. Every song, album and lyric holds an impression in his mind, attaching core memories to each one. Drake’s 2016 project “Views” transports him back to his high school days at Oshkosh North; “Come Thru” off Nothing Was the Same transcends all options. But don’t get it twisted. Tyrese grew up on the classics, too.

“It’s a mix of plenty of things,” Haliburton says with a wide grin, reminiscing on those childhood drives with his dad. He begins listing off the names of legends; Erykah Badu, John B., Usher, Mario, Mary J, Keisha Cole. And then the King of Pop comes up. “I’m a big Michael Jackson guy. I throw that on sometimes, too. I think music has a really good way of taking us back to a time.”

Don’t take our word for it though…If you’re planning on being in Indianapolis for All-Star Weekend, make sure to keep an eye out on our social channels for SLAM’s upcoming scavenger hunt where you could get the chance to try out the Ultra Open Earbuds for yourself.

The post Tyrese Haliburton Opens Up About His Passion for Music and Training with the New Bose Ultra Open Earbuds appeared first on SLAM.

For the latest episode of hoop(ish), Taylor joined Ian and Sway to talk about her media journey and revealed who she is off the court: from her days growing up in Chicago and the moment she realized she wasn’t going to be the next Serena on the court, but was destined to interview legends of the game. She also shared insight into her personal life, including her hobbies, Black hair care routine and so much more.

Plus, of course we had to talk basketball fashion and Taylor gave her LeagueFits starting five and shared her thoughts on Tyrese Haliburton’s style evolution. Check out the latest episode.

We also got to get to know the REAL Taylor by taking a look at her Explore Page—which anyone could say is the best way to judge who someone really is.

Nothing is off limits on the hoop(ish) podcast, so be sure to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts for all things basketball fashion, pop culture and the internet.

The post Taylor Rooks Reveals Who She Thinks are the Best Dressed Players in the NBA are on the hoop(ish) Podcast appeared first on SLAM.

In our cover story, Haliburton opens up about his journey thus far and how he “loves” proving all the doubters wrong. Still, the 23-year-old doesn’t take himself too seriously. Basketball, he says, is a “child’s game,” and brings him back to memories of having a ball in his crib and playing video games. That’s the joy behind Haliburton’s ever-apparent smile when he’s out there on the hardwood.

“When I’m playing basketball, it’s just fun,” he told SLAM. “It’s like I’m a kid again, you know? And that’s what I love about it. This isn’t a job for me. This is a passion of mine and something I really love to do.”

Read the full story here.

To get to know the All-Star more, we sat down with Haliburton and surprised him with items from his past for the latest episode of “Bag Talk.” Check it out below.

The post Get to Know Tyrese Haliburton: Pacers Star on High School Musical, Steve Urkel and MORE appeared first on SLAM.

Then there’s the obvious: he’s into the moment and what we have in store for him at the shoot. A duffle bag full of mystery items to film an episode of “Bag Talk,” an oversized Pacers throwback jersey with a pair of Timberlands and more. Inside the gym, music is blasting through the speakers—it’s a mix of old school Drake and Disney Channel throwbacks like High School Musical (Tyrese, a huge HSM fan, can sing every word). His longtime girlfriend, Jade, and agency rep are here with us, too, and encourage him to just be himself while the camera snaps away.

Once he sits down to talk about his All-Star performance this season, that smile appears again. Actually, it’s more of a smirk now. Maybe he knows something that we don’t?

A few days from now, the news will drop that Haliburton is signing a five-year max extension worth $260 million, making him the face of the franchise.

“I’ve battled and clawed and fought my way to get to where I’m at,” he says. “Now criticism and all that stuff means nothing to me because when I was a kid, nobody would have cared enough to even give me criticism. So the fact that I get it now is pretty cool. I just love proving people wrong. I don’t know, I love negativity. I love seeing negativity on Twitter. I love hearing people say negative comments about my game. It always interests me. It could be somebody with, like, no followers, I just want to prove them wrong.”

SLAM 245 featuring the Indiana Pacers All-Star is out now. Shop here.

This is the same Tyrese Haliburton who was a three-star prospect in high school and, in his words, was expected to redshirt as a freshman at Iowa State. He went from there to becoming a lottery pick in the 2020 NBA Draft. After a mid-season trade last year sent him from Sacramento to Indiana, he’s now an All-Star and was the team’s leading scorer this past season.

While other people might not have seen the vision, Haliburton has always been in his own lane. It stems from his childhood. In elementary school, his guidance counselors would tell him to pick a career path that seemed more “realistic” when he would mention that he wanted to be in the NBA. For the sake of moving things forward, Haliburton would pick something else, but really, he was always thinking a step ahead about how to make it to the League. There’s even a video of a young Tyrese on the internet, rapping to Drake’s “The Motto.” In it, he sings, “How ya feel, how ya feel? 25, sitting on 25 mill.” Even little Tyrese knew what was up.

And like the flow Drake and Weezy carry in that song, Haliburton’s rise happened pretty quickly. In college, he thought he’d have a “good four-year career” at Iowa State but ended playing two seasons. There’s always been doubters, too, even when it comes to his shot-making ability, which he says has been critiqued since he was young. “It’s always just kind of been that way, but I’m just gonna be who I am at the end of the day. It’s helped me get here, so I must be doing something right.”

Now, in the city of Indianapolis, home to the Indy 500, Haliburton is bringing that same energy and speed to the Pacers’ offense. That’s just how he was taught to play the game—pushing the tempo, getting up and down at a rapid rate. “I feel like it’s contagious as well—good energy, and pace and all that stuff,” he says. “When we’re playing fast-paced like we do, I think everybody just falls in line.”

While the team showed flashes of promise this season, collectively and individually—Haliburton averaged 20.7 points and 10.4 points (both career highs), and big man Myles Turner hit new career marks with 18 points and 7.5 boards—there’s still room for improvement. Winning is Haliburton’s main priority right now.

“I haven’t had a winning season in, like, four years dating back to college, so that’s just where I want to get to,” he says, later adding: “There’s obviously a lot more for me to accomplish personally, but I want to win. I want to be playing on the biggest stage, and that’s the playoffs.”

Haliburton doesn’t hesitate to keep it real about how last season went. The Pacers finished with a 35-47 record, ranked 11th in the East, and he found it “frustrating” to have to deal with injuries knowing that his team needed him.

“I felt like if I’m healthy, the situation for us changes a little bit last year,” he says. “But you can’t control everything. You can only put so much energy into what you can’t control. I think the best advice I’ve ever received is just control what you can.”

He’s constantly thinking about what’s next, too, and what he can do better individually and as a leader on the team. “I’m obviously already thinking [about] next year,” he says. “Like, what do I have to do for us to get to where we want to be?”

This summer is all about getting stronger so that he can protect himself from injuries and be able to last throughout the season. He’s been lifting 4-5 times a week and sharpening his skills on the court with Hanlen, who noticed a major shift in his mindset over the years. “I would say mentality, just being more aggressive and more confident, and feeling like he is that guy that can lead a franchise.”

Then there’s his approach to the game. Hanlen first got connected to Haliburton, who was playing on the Kings at the time, through his agent, Dave Spahn. Back in January of 2022, the team was set to play Philadelphia, and Hanlen happened to be already be in town to work with Sixers’ superstar Joel Embiid when he agreed to meet Haliburton for dinner the night before at Del Friscos. The conversation quickly turned into Hanlen “pressing” his potential client on what he wanted to achieve. He’d ask him, How many times are you going to be an All-Star? How many times will you make All-NBA First Team?

“I’m just giving [Haliburton] a bunch of these gut-punching questions,” Hanlen recalls now. “Then I said, you know what? The biggest thing is you’re not gonna be able to do any of this stuff if you keep attempting—I think he was attempting like 11 shots a game at the time or something like that. I was like, it’s just not possible. The math ain’t math-ing.”

Then Hanlen offered Haliburton a challenge: “You wore number 14 in high school, so that’s the number. If you wanna work with me this summer, you have to shoot 14 field goal attempts tomorrow night against the Sixers. Otherwise, I’m not working with you.”

The next night, on January 29, Haliburton went out and scored a career-high 38 points on 11-19 field goal attempts. Not only had he accepted Hanlen’s challenge, but he had dominated. The two have worked together ever since and talk after every game. From Hanlen’s perspective, Haliburton has grown in every aspect of the word: from improving his footwork to his shot creation and being a more “dynamic scorer.” Last summer, Haliburton gained 12 pounds, he says, and has become stronger and able to play through more contact. But in terms of Haliburton’s unconventional playing style, Hanlen also just lets him rock.

“You don’t break things that aren’t broken,” he says, later adding: “We always try to just strengthen his strengths and we try to attack his weaknesses. There’s nothing that can hold him back from reaching the heights that we think he can get to [and] there’s no reason to take away the uniqueness and the creativity that allows him to be unconventional, but also so dynamic as a player.”

The 23-year-old doesn’t take himself too seriously, either. Basketball, he says, is a “child’s game,” and brings him back to memories of having a ball in his crib and playing video games. That’s the joy behind Haliburton’s ever-apparent smile when he’s out there on the hardwood. “When I’m playing basketball, it’s just fun,” he says. “It’s like I’m a kid again, you know? And that’s what I love about it. This isn’t a job for me. This is a passion of mine and something I really love to do.”

Playing against All-Stars like Darius Garland, who was drafted a year before him in 2019, is his idea of fun. “We’re good friends,” he says. “I think that’s important. We just really enjoy competing against each other. I see that being a thing for both of us moving forward.”

He’s also a fan of the WNBA and tunes in to as many games as he can, including a recent match-up between the Las Vegas Aces and the Indiana Fever. Haliburton, who live-tweeted his reaction to Chelsea Gray’s elite behind-the-back pass, was taking notes, too. “I wouldn’t even think to try something like that. I mean, maybe I would in the moment, but just on TV it looked crazy. I couldn’t believe that she did that.”

“I’m trying everything [she did],” he admits later. “CC [Gray] in the caption.”

It’s that energy that’s got Pacers fans excited. Even Indiana’s own Caitlin Cooper, who runs the Basketball, She Wrote blog on Patreon and once wrote about the team for Indy Cornrows, has noticed it around the city. The team had its first two sell-out games since February 8, 2020, according to the Indy Star. “I can tell you that you’re starting to sense a shift,” says Cooper. “I’ve talked to people who would have never talked to me about the Pacers before and they’re like, I gotta get on the ground floor of this. They’re building something special and that Tyrese Haliburton is a really entertaining guy to watch.”

The way Haliburton has shown love to Indiana is a sign of a promising future ahead. He’s invested in the city, hosting youth basketball camps and even going as far as to promote Cooper’s work and wear her t-shirt, “JUMP PASSES ARE GOOD NOW,” in the tunnel this year.

“I think that the best thing about Tyrese Haliburton—having him as your franchise player—was just, from the Pacers’ perspective, they’ve talked about the fact that there are murals painted on buildings of Reggie Miller and that they think that Tyrese can get to that level at some point,” says Cooper. “And the way that he’s embraced the city and what he means as a franchise star, you can believe that [they’re] going to get there.”

According to Hanlen, even his other clients have noticed that something is brewing in Indiana, with Tyrese at the forefront of it. “I work with a lot of other NBA players. Anytime somebody signs with the Pacers, the first thing that all my clients say is, Oh, Ty’s gonna get ’em paid. Ty’s gonna get ’em paid. He’s gonna make ’em look so much better than that player really is just because Ty makes the game so much easier for everybody around him. When you ask, what is his ceiling? I mean, he’s a guy that I think will be one of, if not the best point guards for the next, next decade and a guy that I think can be a floor general for a championship caliber team.”

Spahn, says they set goals before every season—last year, it was for Haliburton to average 20 and 10 and be an All-Star, which he did. Going into next season, they’re ready for him to amp it up and be All-NBA. “I don’t think there is a limit right now, I think he’s gonna be the best point guard in the League one day,” Spahn says. “And I think he’s gonna be the best point guard in the League for a long time. I think he’s that level of player and person.”

What’s most important is that Haliburton sees it within himself, too. While the accolades and accomplishments continue to pile up—the week after our shoot, it was announced that he’ll join the 2023 USA men’s national team for the FIBA World Cup this summer—Haliburton knows that in order to get the Pacers where they want to be, they’re going to have to work for it. Proving people wrong ain’t nothing new for him, but right now, Pacers fans are expecting bigger and better things. He’s on a mission to prove ’em right.

“I always say, There’s no secret to success. All the most successful people in the world, they just usually work harder than everybody else,” Haliburton says. “I just want to be the best that I can and squeeze every bit of God given ability that I have [out]. Squeeze it all out before I’m done playing.”

SLAM 245 GOLD MEDAL EDITIONS + COVER TEES OUT NOW!

The post Inside the Rise of Tyrese Haliburton and His Mission to Lead the Pacers Back on Track appeared first on SLAM.

Pacers say that Tyrese Haliburton sprained his left elbow and absorbed a mild left knee bruise and will be reevaluated in two weeks. Team is also awaiting additional opinion on the results of the scans.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) January 12, 2023

Haliburton suffered the injury late in the third quarter when he lost his right shoe, fell awkwardly, and hurt his left knee and elbow on the play.

“He’ll get looked at tomorrow closely,” Pacers coach Rick Carlisle said, per ESPN. “He’s walking out of Madison Square Garden on crutches, so I would guess his availability on Friday will be in question, and probably Saturday, too, but who knows.

“One of the great things about Tyrese is he has been banged up the last year and a half that he’s been with us, and he always wants to play. He always wants to play, and it’s something that’s really helped our culture as a team. So we’ll hope for the best. We’re surely not going to put him in harm’s way.”

Haliburton posted 15 points and seven assists before he left the game for good; on the season, Haliburton is averaging 20.2 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 10.2 dimes per game on 48.0 percent shooting from the floor and 39.9 percent from beyond the arc.

The post Tyrese Haliburton Will Miss the Next Two Weeks Due to a Sprained Elbow and Knee Bruise appeared first on SLAM.

The 26-year-old has solidified himself as one of the best rim protectors in the NBA, and he is having his best scoring season to date during this 2022-23 campaign. Turner is averaging 16.7 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks on an efficient 54.1 percent from the field. Amongst centers in the League, his accuracy from downtown is remarkable at 41.7 percent from three. The highest right now for the center position this year.

Despite being mentioned in some trade rumors in the past several months, it shouldn’t be surprising that the Pacers want to continue having Turner in Indiana. He can stretch the floor and defend at a high level: The quintessential modern-day big man that’s hard to find.

His experience of having already played eight seasons in the NBA increases Turner’s value. With Indiana’s promising young core of Tyrese Haliburton and rookie Bennedict Mathurin making their mark this season, Turner can help take this team to the next level. If negotiations break down, the 26-year-old can become a free agent when the season ends.

The Pacers (16-16) are currently ninth in the Eastern Conference, with the same record as the eighth-seeded Atlanta Hawks (16-16) and the seventh-seeded Miami Heat (16-16). Indiana will look to change that when they play their next game versus the Heat on Friday.

The post REPORT: Myles Turner and Indiana Open Up Contract Extension Talks appeared first on SLAM.

Since getting drafted by the Sacramento Kings in 2017 as the fifth pick, the franchise has not made the playoffs. This year, Fox wants to be at the forefront of getting them there. The Kings reshaped their roster for the second half of last season when they acquired two-time All-Star Domantas Sabonis, Jeremy Lamb, and Justin Holiday from the Indiana Pacers.

Sacramento traded Tyrese Haliburton, Buddy Hield, and Tristan Thompson in return.

On Draymond Green’s podcast, “The Draymond Green Show,” Fox admitted that the trade shocked him. As the primary point guard for the franchise, the 24-year-old felt that the trade sent an important message to him from the organization.

“For me, it’s like yo, they believe in me,” said Fox. “But two, it’s like motherf*****, we just traded somebody who could be a franchise point guard either here or somewhere else. So, you better get on your s***; you better start winning.“

The King guard is fresh off scoring 33 points in a 108-115 defeat to the Portland Trail Blazers and understands that there will be added pressure for him in this campaign.

“Does it add pressure? Yeah, a little bit,” said Fox. But, at the end of the day, I’ve been trying to get us in the playoffs for years, so it’s a little added pressure. It ain’t hurt anybody.”

Fortunately for Sacramento, they acquired Malik Monk after a solid season with the Los Angeles Lakers during the offseason. He averaged a career-high 13.8 points on 47.3 percent shooting from the field.

The move reunites Fox and Monk for the first time backcourt pair played together at Kentucky before making it to the NBA. The question is, will these moves by the Kings in the past year pay off and earn them a trip to the playoffs?

Sacramento will suit up on Saturday to play the Los Angeles Clippers in hopes of the team’s first win of the season.

The post De’Aaron Fox on the Kings Trading Tyrese Haliburton: ‘They Believe in Me’ appeared first on SLAM.

At 26-years-old, Turner is entering the last year of his four-year, $72 million contract and is extension eligible until June 2023. One of the game’s premier defenders, he is a two-time NBA block champion with a career average of 2.3 blocks per game.

But as of late, Turner’s struggled with injuries and has failed to play in more than 47 games in the last two seasons. He would have led the league in blocks in 2021-22 if he had met the 58-game minimum, but a left foot injury limited him to just 42 games.

The Pacers cleaned house at last season’s trade deadline when they sent a package including All-Star forward Domantas Sabonis to Sacramento in exchange for Tyrese Haliburton, Buddy Hield, and Tristan Thompson (who later agreed to a buyout with the Pacers and joined the Chicago Bulls). During the draft, the Pacers selected Arizona’s Bennedict Mathurin in the hopes of providing a scoring punch.

With Turner surrounded by what could be a strong group of playmakers and scorers, the Pacers have decided to keep the big man in Indiana, at least for the time being.

The post Pacers Say They Are Not Actively Shopping Myles Turner appeared first on SLAM.

Although Indiana Pacers guard TJ Warren has recovered from consecutive stress fractures in his left foot and returned to full basketball activities, he will sit out team’s final 12 games and prepare for the 2022-2023 season, sources told ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) March 17, 2022

“After thoughtful conversation with T.J. and his representatives, it has been determined that the most beneficial course of action at this point is to allow him to focus on the 2022-23 season,” President of Basketball Operations Kevin Pritchard said.

While only playing four games during the 2020-21 campaign, the former 14th overall pick in the 2014 draft has remained sidelined for the entirety of this season despite fully recovering from the stress fractures.

Wojnarowski reports that conversations between Warren’s representatives and the team led to the understanding that returning to a Pacers roster that will miss the playoffs makes little sense – sitting at 13th in the Eastern Conference standings – opting to prepare for the 2022-23 season.

Warren’s sample size with the Pacers is small, averaging 19.8 points while shooting 40.3 percent from deep in the 2019-20 campaign, however, the return of a sharpshooting guard next to recently acquired second-year guard Tyrese Haliburton could provide for a shakeup in Indiana and the Eastern Conference.

The post Pacers Announce T.J. Warren Will Miss Remainder of the Season appeared first on SLAM.

On the positive side, when he wasn’t stuck on the bench, Jackson was clearly having an impact. A big impact, especially for a 20-year-old still adjusting to the NBA. The versatile forward was considered a project heading into the 2021 Draft, where he was selected with the No. 22 overall pick and immediately traded to the Pacers. At 6-10, with an absurd 7-5 wingspan and elite athleticism, his potential was glaring. But Jackson hadn’t put up huge numbers in his one season at Kentucky—averaging 8.4 points, 6.6 rebounds and 2.6 blocks—and was expected to need time to develop, particularly on offense.

Still, the Pacers liked his ability to protect the rim on one end (Jackson led the entire SEC in blocks per game) and attack it relentlessly on the other (he was an obvious lob threat that could pair well with Indiana’s many playmakers). He logged just 50 total minutes through October, November and December before his role started to grow. Two-time All-Star Domantas Sabonis entered the NBA’s health and safety protocols at the end of January, leading Jackson to receive his first start on Jan. 31, in a home game against the Clippers. The rook was ready for the moment (despite finding out that afternoon, when he showed up to the arena), putting up a career-high 26 points (including four dunks and a three), 10 rebounds, 2 blocks and, most importantly, 0 fouls. His performance helped the Pacers secure a 122-116 win, snapping a four-game losing streak. 

“When a guy like him starts getting consistent minutes, when he hasn’t been playing much all year, he’s excited, he’s hyped up and the game is fast,” head coach Rick Carlisle reflected afterwards. “NBA players do things to make you react. Just the reminders for him over the last several days [were]: stay on your feet, be the second guy off the ground—because with as quickly as you jump, you’ll still be able to get up and contest or block the shot—and play without fouls because we need you on the floor. And, man oh man, he did such a great job in every area tonight. When we talked in the Draft—picked him at 22—about the need for athleticism and a rim threat, this is what we were talking about. Caris [LeVert] threw him some lobs. Justin Holiday threw him one. Two, three other guys got into the fray. And this is a dimension that this team has not had, so it was really great to see.”

Asked about his heightened role, Jackson told reporters: “It’s helped me a lot. Just getting the experience—that real game experience—has helped me a lot. I think today I took a step forward in my progress, as far as staying down [on defense] and not really [making mistakes]. I made a couple mistakes, but I’m a rookie, so I’m going to make those mistakes, but I’m trying to build off those mistakes as well. I think today was a big step forward in my progress—staying down on defense and just improving my game overall.”

With Sabonis now in Sacramento (along with Justin Holiday and Jeremy Lamb, the big man was dealt to the Kings in exchange for Tyrese Haliburton, Buddy Hield and Tristan Thompson at the deadline), and Indiana looking toward the future, Jackson’s role has only expanded. He is now a fixture in the starting lineup, building chemistry alongside the new backcourt duo of Haliburton and Malcolm Brogdon. Since the All-Star break, Jackson is averaging 11.4 points, 6.3 rebounds and 2.9 blocks per game, shooting 67 percent from the field. At this point, the evidence is clear: as long as he can stay on the floor. Jackson is—and will continue to be—a real difference-maker.

The post SLAM x Panini Rookie Spotlight: Isaiah Jackson appeared first on SLAM.

The addition of four players from the NBA G League Ignite developmental team with a four-team draft set the stage for three entertaining basketball games. The winners had to get to 50 points in the first round and 25 points in the final round.

Team Worthy vs. Team Isiah (Game to 50):

This was probably one of the more exciting games of the night. Jalen Green sparked Team Worthy, who led everyone in the game in scoring, and the Orlando Magic connection, Cole Anthony and Jalen Suggs.

Jalen Suggs Cole Anthony

Cole Anthony giving us a sample of his hops…see them on full display tomorrow in the #ATTSlamDunk contest! #PhantomCam pic.twitter.com/z3jYsdceAg

— #NBAAllStar (@NBAAllStar) February 19, 2022

Team Isiah looked like they had things well in hand to go to the next round before Team Worthy went on a massive 15-4 run to put go ahead 40-39. Both teams were neck and neck up to a 48-48 tie.

Then the Cole Anthony effect happened.

With Jalen Suggs on the line to end the game, Anthony said something to Suggs, with the rookie out Gonzaga missing the subsequent free throw.

That left the door for Team Isiah to win the game with Desmond Bane at the line. Anthony had a conversation with him, too, and even pulled down his shorts to distract him! Only for Bane to hit both of his free throws to end things.

Cole Anthony really pulled down his shorts during Bane’s free throw pic.twitter.com/WLEIBQlfN4

— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) February 19, 2022

Team Isiah defeats Team Worthy 50-49.

Team Barry vs. Team Payton (Game to 50):

While the first game showed a ton of highlight dunks and flashy play, things were a little more structured in this one. Hall of Famer Rick Barry will probably be the only coach in an All-Star event that mandates set plays to start a game, while Gary Payton, also a Hall of Famer, hasn’t lost a bit of competitive fire, too say the least.

Gary Payton was trash talking the ref from the bench pic.twitter.com/RJ5t4gfEDL

— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) February 19, 2022

For a while, it looked like Team Payton was off to win after a strong start by Timberwolves’ rookie Jaden McDaniels, but crowd favorite Mobley kept things close by dominating down low and getting easy baskets.

But when the Pistons’ number one overall pick, Cunningham, got warmed up, Team Barry’s offense started clicking with their ball movement, and the game turned around.

In a down to the wire affair like the previous first-round game, Team Barry was just disciplined enough to win thanks to two final baskets by Houston Rockets’ Jae’Shan Tate, including this game-winner!

Jae’Sean Tate takes it to the rack for the win!

Team Barry advances to the #CloroxRisingStars Final, where they’ll face Team Isiah following the #CloroxClutch Challenge on TNT. pic.twitter.com/UO4Twm2BJe

— NBA (@NBA) February 19, 2022

LaMelo Ball almost stole the pass and nearly ripped the ball from Tate in vain, but it was not enough.

Team Barry defeats Team Payton 50-48.

The Clorox Clutch Challenge!

Tyrese Haliburton and Bane were the only players to knock down five shots from positions of famous NBA Finals shots of the past to win the challenge.

Tyrese Haliburton and Desmond Bane finish in under 40 seconds to win the #CloroxClutch Challenge! pic.twitter.com/cuTNrmnciC

— NBA (@NBA) February 19, 2022

What most will remember from this event was Scottie Barnes continually missing the layup part of the competition.

Team Barry vs. Team Isiah (Game to 25):

Just like in the first game, Team Isiah opened up a lead over Team Barry thanks to Toronto Raptors forward Precious Achiuwa’s quick 13 points to get within shouting distance of the targeted 25 points.

Precious Achiuwa is on fire!

He’s up to 13 points in the #CloroxRisingStars final…Team Isiah is 7 points away from the winning Target Score of 25 on TNT. pic.twitter.com/pmc79M5bks

— NBA (@NBA) February 19, 2022

But like in the first game, Team Isiah allowed a momentum-stealing run to enable their lead to evaporate. This time it cost them as tournament MVP Cade Cunningham took over, hitting huge shots to help Team Barry triumph over Team Isiah in the championship game with a 13-2 run.

Team Barry wins the tournament over Team Isiah 25-20.

The post Team Barry Wins A Newly Formatted 2022 NBA Rising Stars tournament appeared first on SLAM.

Haliburton joined ESPN’s “The Jump” on Thursday to discuss the trade, and he admitted he was left shocked by the move, enough to the point where he said at first he thought it “was a joke.”

Haliburton was part of a trade deadline deal between the Sacramento Kings and Indiana Pacers that sent Haliburton, Buddy Hield, and Tristan Thompson to the Pacers in exchange for Domantas Sabonis, Jeremy Lamb, Justin Holiday, and a 2023 second-round pick.

Thompson has since been released by the Pacers and will sign with the Chicago Bulls.

While Haliburton was shocked by the trade, initial returns have been positive. Through his first four games, Haliburton is averaging 20.8 points, 11.0 assists and 2.3 steals per game compared to his averages of 14.3 points, 7.4 assists, and 1.7 steals per game while with the Kings.

Haliburton also managed to snag his first win in a Pacers jersey on Wednesday night, dropping 21 points, 14 assists, and five rebounds in a 113-108 win over the Washington Wizards.

The Pacers are currently 13th in the Eastern Conference with a record of 20-40.

The post Tyrese Haliburton Says He Thought Trade to Pacers Was ‘A Joke’ appeared first on SLAM.

TRADES:

The Lakers and Knicks didn’t make any moves according to Adrian Wojnarowski, the Lakers will reportedly be focusing on the buyout market.

No deal for the Lakers, source tells ESPN. THey’ll focus on the buyout market.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 10, 2022

Houston is trading Daniel Theis to the Celtics for Dennis Schroder, Bruno Fernando, and Enis Freedom. Freedom has been waived by the Rockets.

Boston is sending guard Dennis Schroder to the Rockets in the deal, source tells ESPN. https://t.co/4RFdjoULq3

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 10, 2022

The Wizards are trading Davis Bertans and Spencer Dinwiddie to the Mavericks for Kristaps Porzingis.

The Wizards will send Davis Bertans in deal too, source tells ESPN. Mavericks send a second-round pick to Wizards. https://t.co/RJdybUd0Lw

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 10, 2022

The Wizards are flipping Montrezl Harrell for Charlotte’s Vernon Carey and Ish Smith.

Charlotte is acquiring Washington center Montrezl Harrell for Vernon Carey and Ish Smith, sources tell ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 10, 2022

The Pacers are reportedly working on a deal to send Torrey Craig to the Suns for Jalen Smith.

The Celtics will acquire Derrick White from the Spurs.

Romeo Langford and Josh Richardson are included in the deal to the Spurs.

The Celtics are trading PJ Dozier and Bol Bol to the Magic for a future second-round pick.

The Celtics are trading PJ Dozier and Bol Bol, a future second and cash to the Magic for a future second-round pick, sources tell ESPN. Dozier and Bol are both out for the season. Cost-savings for Boston.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 10, 2022

The Spurs are working on a trade for Goran Dragic and are expected to buy out his contract. The Mavericks, Bucks, Bulls, and Clippers are reportedly interested in the Dragons services. Thad Young, Drew Eubanks, and a 2022 second-round pick are headed to the Raptors.

The Raptors are trading Dragic and protected 2022 first-round picks to the Spurs for Thad Young, Drew Eubanks and a 2022 second-round pick via Pistons, sources tell ESPN. Pick is protected 1-14 in 2022; 1-13 in 2023 and would turn into two seconds beyond that. https://t.co/SN0sFyVurm

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 10, 2022

The Bucks have traded Rodney Hood and Semi Ojele to the Clippers, Serge Ibaka to the Bucks, Donte DiVencenco to the Kings and Marvin Bagley is headed to the Pistons on Thursday according to Woj.

ESPN Sources:
Full trade participants:
Kings: Donte DiVincenzo, Trey Lyles and Josh Jackson.
Bucks: Serge Ibaka, two future second-round picks, cash.
Clippers: Rodney Hood, Semi Ojele.
Pistons: Marvin Bagley Jr.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 10, 2022

According to Adrian Wojnarowski, the Utah Jazz is receiving Nickeil Alexander-Walker and the Juancho Hernangomez of the Spurs in a three-way deal. Spurs receive Tomas Satoransky and a second-round pick, and the Blazers get Joe Ingles, Elijah Hughes, and a second-round selection.

The Utah Jazz are acquiring guard Portland’s Nickeil Alexander-Walker and the Spurs’ Juancho Hernangomez in a three-way deal, sources tell ESPN. The Spurs gets guard Tomas Satoransky and a second-round pick, and the Blazers get Joe Ingles, Elijah Hughes and a second-round pick.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 9, 2022

The Pacers are sending Domantas Sabonis, Jeremy Lamb, and Justin Holiday to the Kings for Tyrese Haliburton, Buddy Hield, and Tristan Thompson. 

Jeremy Lamb AND Justin Holiday. https://t.co/0GbRwKcRBP

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 8, 2022

The Pelicans receive CJ McCollum, Larry Nance, and Tony Snell in a trade with the Blazers. Portland gets Josh Hart, Tomas Satoransky, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Didi Louzada, and a protected first-round pick in the 2022 NBA Draft. 

Full trade, per sources:
Blazers: Josh Hart, Tomas Satoransky, Nickeil Walker-Alexander, Didi Louzada, 2022 protected first-round pick, two second-round picks.
Pelicans: CJ McCollum, Larry Nance, Tony Snell.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 8, 2022

The Pacers trade Caris LeVert and a 2022 second-round pick from Miami to Cleveland for Ricky Rubio, a lottery-protected 2022 first-round pick, 2022 second-round pick from Houston, and a 2027 second-round pick from Utah.

Full trade: Indiana sends Caris LeVert and a 2022 second-round pick via Miami to Cleveland for Ricky Rubio, lottery-protected 2022 first-round pick, 2022 second-round pick via Houston and a 2027 second-round pick via Utah, per sources.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 6, 2022

The Clippers and the Blazers agreed to a trade last week. The Clippers move Eric Bledsoe, Justice Winslow, Keon Johnson, and a future second-round pick to the Trail Blazers for Norman Powell and Robert Covington. 

The Clippers are trading Eric Bledsoe, Justise Winslow, Keon Johnson and future second-round pick to the Trail Blazers for Norman Powell and Robert Covington, sources tell ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 4, 2022

RUMORS:

REPORT: James Harden is pushing for a trade to Philadelphia by ‘screaming in every way he possibly can,’ to get out of Brooklyn.

James Harden is pushing for a trade and is ‘screaming in every way he possibly can’ to get out of Brooklyn, per @WindhorstESPN. https://t.co/D7l2VI9IZq pic.twitter.com/GcFCoivKjF

— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) February 9, 2022

REPORT: Philadelphia refuses to include Maxey in any deal, causing Brooklyn to counter with an asking price of Simmons, Curry, Thybulle, and Drummond. Philadelphia is hesitant to have Curry, though Mills would reportedly end up in Philadelphia.

Update: Sixers have refused to include Tyrese Maxey in any deal with Brooklyn. Nets have countered with an asking price of Simmons, Curry, Thybulle, and Drummond. Sixers are hesitant to include Curry. Any deal would likely send Patty Mills to Philly aside from Harden.

— Jason Dumas (@JDumasReports) February 9, 2022

Brooklyn needs to see Curry in the deal alongside Simmons for them to be willing to move Harden.

This is from Sunday night’s BS Podcast and nothing has changed — Brooklyn wants Seth in any Harden deal. (And Embiid loves playing with Curry.) pic.twitter.com/sTD2vyY1co

— Bill Simmons (@BillSimmons) February 9, 2022

Teams around the League think a deal between Philadelphia and Brooklyn is close to being done and that it would open the ‘floodgates’ if the agreement were to be done before tomorrow’s deadline.

It sounds like rival teams think a deal between Brooklyn and Philadelphia may be getting close. One team told me “They’ve kind of put other talks on hold. If that deal finally happens, then the floodgates will open around the league for a lot more to happen.”

— Keith Smith (@KeithSmithNBA) February 9, 2022

Philadelphia has talked to Oklahoma City about Tobias Harris, though it may be a ploy to put more pressure on Brooklyn to trade Harden before tomorrow’s deadline.

Now arrives another stretch of uncertainty, with the trade deadline approaching Thursday afternoon and sources telling The Inquirer that the Sixers have explored trading Tobias Harris. https://t.co/Kv6MEFjDDh

— The Philadelphia Inquirer (@PhillyInquirer) February 9, 2022

Buddy Hield may not end up in Indiana after claims of Pacers opening to flipping him to another team before the Thursday deadline.

Small trade note: As of now — and everything can change in the next 26 hours — the Indiana Pacers do not plan to trade Buddy Hield despite some interest from other teams, sources tell ESPN.

— Zach Lowe (@ZachLowe_NBA) February 9, 2022

Detroit is listening to offers for Jerami Grant but may wait until the offseason to move him. Detroit wants two first-rounders in exchange for Grant, and the Portland Trail Blazers have shown the most interest. 

Pistons Listening To Offers On Jerami Grant, Could Wait Until Offseason For Trade https://t.co/nImk0qLAHF

— RealGM (@RealGM) February 9, 2022

The post LIVE: NBA Trade Deadline Tracker appeared first on SLAM.

The Pacers are trading Domantas Sabonis, Jeremy Lamb and Justin Holiday to the Kings for Tyrese Hailburton, Buddy Hield and Tristan Thompson, per @wojespn. pic.twitter.com/VwjKcZ0BkA

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) February 8, 2022

The Pacers are also sending Jeremy Lamb and Justin Holiday to the Kings and will be receiving Tyrese Haliburton, Buddy Hield, and Tristan Thompson.

Sabonis has been involved in trade rumors since December. When the reports first came out, it was reported that the Pacers not only wanted to trade Sabonis but Caris LeVert and Myles Turner to jumpstart their rebuilding process. So far, only LeVert has been moved after the Michigan product was traded to the Cavaliers over the weekend.

The Kings moving Haliburton comes as a surprise after Sacramento told potential trade partners they wanted to keep De’Aaron Fox and Haliburton and build around the budding backcourt. However, the NBA is a business, and when you get a chance to acquire an All-Star, you have to pull that trigger sometimes.

Sabonis averages 18.9 points and 12.1 rebounds per game, one of seven players in the League to put up similar numbers.

The Pacers (19-36) face the Hawks (25-28) on the road on Tuesday.

The post Update: Pacers Sending Domantas Sabonis to the Kings appeared first on SLAM.

ESPN’s NBA insider Brian Windhorst had some insight on the rumored news Friday on The Hoop Collective podcast.

“This has been reported elsewhere, but I’ve heard as well that the Knicks have shown some interest in De’Aaron Fox,” Windhorst said. “The player that makes the most sense in that swap is Julius Randle.”

Sacramento, who recently took themselves out of the running for a potential Ben Simmons deal last week, still hasn’t officially taken Fox off the trading block due to a crowded backcourt that includes Tyrese Haliburton, Davion Mitchell, and Buddy Hield, to name a few.

Fox has been out since January 19 with an ankle injury but has been solid when healthy for the Kings. Fox averages 21.0 points, 5.2 assists, 3.8 rebounds, and 1.2 steals in 2021-22.

Since Randle was voted the NBA’s Most Improved Player last season, he has struggled mightily not only with his play but with his relationship with the Knicks fanbase. His thumbs-down gesture caused a controversy that Randle apologized for shortly afterward. His scoring average of 18.5 points is far lower than the 24.1 points per game he scored last season. Randle also averages 9.9 rebounds and 5.1 assists per game.

What makes the trade intriguing is that the contracts match up with Fox in the first season of a five-year, $163 million deal, while Randle’s four-year, $117 million extension kicks in next season. With both teams looking to shake up their rosters and two players possibly looking for new scenery, look for this rumor to last up to the deadline.

The post REPORT: New York Knicks Interested in DeAaron Fox-Julius Randle Deal appeared first on SLAM.

It hasn’t been all bad, though. Tyrese Haliburton, the Kings second-year guard out of Iowa State, has taken a major step forward in the absence of De’Aaron Fox, averaging 20.2 points and 8.2 assists on the team’s recent road trip. And so has rookie Davion Mitchell. 

The ninth overall pick from Baylor joined the starting lineup last Wednesday. Since then, he has averaged 19.4 points (on 49 percent shooting from the field and 39 percent from three) and 5.6 assists per game. When Sacramento drafted Mitchell this summer, the decision was met with some backlash, given his small size (6-0) and the number of young guards—Haliburton, Fox, Buddy Hield—already on the Kings roster.

“Certainly, when you just look at the team we had and who we had drafted the year before and Tyrese and who we already had on the team with De’Aaron, and you say, ‘Why would you draft another point guard?’” general manager Monte McNair told The Athletic in November. “[But] this is where we talk about being a best player available in the draft. And it’s a hard thing to do sometimes, but we truthfully sit here and try to [draft] best player available. And when Davion is sitting at the top of our board, we do not hesitate to draft him.”

It was hard to argue with Mitchell being there. Here’s what the 23-year-old managed to accomplish during his two seasons at Baylor: 2021 NCAA Champion, 2021 Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year, 2021 NABC Defensive Player of the Year, 2021 Lefty Driesell Award winner and two-time All-Big 12.

As those accolades suggest, Mitchell was renowned primarily for his defense coming into the NBA, having averaged just under two steals per game the previous year. He was undoubtedly one of the best on-ball defenders in all of college basketball, using his energy, quickness and athleticism to pester opposing guards. That lockdown ability has carried over to the League, where Mitchell now faces elite scorers on a nightly basis. Below is a rundown of how some of those guys have fared in head-to-head clashes with the Kings rookie, per NBA.com: 

Russell Westbrook in 11:31 matchup minutes: 1/11 from the field

Damian Lillard in 9:16 matchup minutes: 1/14 from the field

Trae Young in 4:47 matchup minutes: 1/8 from the field

Jalen Brunson in 11:55 matchup minutes: 2/8 from the field

Jordan Clarkson in 10:21 matchup minutes: 3/10 from the field

Tyrese Maxey in 11:41 matchup minutes: 3/11 from the field

Numbers like that are the reason Mitchell earned the nickname “Off Night” while at Baylor. All-Stars Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland shot well against him, but combined for seven turnovers in 19 total matchup minutes.

Mitchell’s offense has been steadily improving, too. He was an incredibly efficient scorer in college, shooting 51 percent from the field and 45 percent from deep in 2020-21, but has struggled to find his rhythm at times this season. His confidence hasn’t wavered, though. He dropped 20 points and hit four three-pointers against the Hawks last week. Three days later, he had 15 points and knocked down 3/7 from behind the arc against the Sixers. Then, in his first game at Madison Square Garden, he put up 18 points, 6 assists and 2 blocks. 

On Wednesday, Mitchell helped Sacramento get a 112-101 win over Brooklyn, posting 18 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists, and defending Kyrie Irving extremely well, holding him to 2/6 shooting in seven matchup minutes. He also spent time on James Harden, who had one of his worst performances as a Net (4 points, 6 turnovers).

Just look at the activity in the clips below. This is why they call him “Off Night.”

Davion Mitchell since being moved into the starting lineup (four games):

17.7 PTS
2.7 REB
5.0 AST
44% FG
35% 3PT

Limited sample size, but it’s hard to not be impressed by what the rookie has done in a starting role.

Also, the defense… pic.twitter.com/rrLwPsy3Lx

— Franklin Cartoscelli (@FCartoscelli3) February 3, 2022

Davion puttin’ the pressure on Kyrie pic.twitter.com/amj7BHsJDH

— Kings on NBCS (@NBCSKings) February 3, 2022

Davion steal -> Damian pic.twitter.com/vESWMANuED

— Kings on NBCS (@NBCSKings) February 3, 2022

He followed that up with perhaps the best game of his young career at Golden State: 26 points (on 11/17 from the field and 3/5 from three) and 8 assists.

Davion Mitchell drives and finishes to set a new career-high (23 PTS)

Watch Now on NBA League Pass: https://t.co/oz9UCQxdQa pic.twitter.com/54J3aqWVe6

— NBA (@NBA) February 4, 2022

For the season, Mitchell is now averaging 10.1 points, 3.4 assists and 2.3 rebounds. He will represent the Kings in the Rising Stars Game at All-Star Weekend in Cleveland, along with Haliburton.

With losses mounting and trade rumors swirling as the deadline nears, things have been bleak in Sacramento lately. But Mitchell’s success, development and potential have provided a glimmer of much-needed hope. 

The post SLAM x Panini Rookie Spotlight: Davion Mitchell appeared first on SLAM.

The Rumble Kong League features a collection of 10,000 programmatically designed NFTs called Kongs. Collectors include a slew of NBA players: Stephen Curry, Paul George, Tyrese Haliburton, Andre Iguodala, Josh Hart, Hassan Whiteside, Gary Payton II, Cole Anthony, Damion Lee, JaVale McGee and Malik Beasley.

RKL is distinguishing itself from other NFT projects in the mainstream by rolling out ambitious experiential opportunities for Kong holders: Players will be able to compete in leagues and tournaments for cryptocurrency prizes, own and manage teams, purchase fashion collectibles for their Kong to wear, train their Kong to level up statistics, and breed their Kong to create new NFTs. The video game itself hasn’t launched yet, but when it does Kong holders will be able to participate in all sorts of ways; the game will launch in 2022 and is expected to feature 3-on-3-style gameplay.

The visual traits of the Kongs come in varying degrees of rarity. Each Kong is also randomly assigned Shooting, Defense, Vision and Finishing statistics that will guide each Kong’s on-court potential. 

As holders wait for gameplay to be released, the Kong community continues to grow. The @RumbleKongs Twitter account now has over 40,000 followers. Dating back to the collection’s June release, Kong trade volume is now over $55 million. Lots of your favorite athletes and entertainers are repping Kongs—beyond the NBA guys mentioned above, holders include Ja Rule, La La Anthony and Yankees pitcher Clarke Schmidt. RKL’s merch has been spotted on NBA players both in the tunnel and at post-game press conferences.

On the funding front, CAA Sports and Paul George backed the project to accelerate game development. The first major partnership included Under Armour Basketball and Curry, who will bring a digital sneaker into the game. 

“Our goal is to provide a truly unique and memorable experience for sports fans within the Rumble Kong League,” said Marcus Bläsche, CEO of the Rumble Kong League. “NFTs and the Metaverse are making a huge impact in the gaming world and we aim to build the go-to sports ecosystem and push the boundaries of what is possible within the web3 space.” 

Meet Le’Jon LaMon aka Sickpencil, the man behind the Rumble Kong League’s electrifying visuals.

The post The NFT Project Storming the NBA appeared first on SLAM.

Inside of two weeks until the February 10 NBA trade deadline, the Kings believe the asking price for Simmons is too steep and that a pathway to reaching an agreement with the Sixers doesn’t exist, sources said.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) January 28, 2022

The Kings was one of the more aggressive teams for Simmons offering rumored deals surrounding guards DeAaron Fox and Tyrese Haliburton, but the team now believes the asking price is too high for Simmons, and they have run out of feasible offers.

Sacramento has players like Harrison Barnes, Buddy Hield, and Richaun Holmes to easily match Simmons’ contract salary, along with rumors of James Harden being unhappy in Brooklyn. Wojnarowski believes an in-season trade at this point could be unlikely, and the team could wait until the offseason to make a deal.

Ben Simmons continues to sit out due to mental health reasons and still hasn’t changed his mind on his trade requests. On the other hand, Simmons is signed with 6ers through the 2024-25 season, which gives them patience and leverage to wait on a deal.

The Philadelphia 76ers are off to a 29-19 start, two games behind the first-place Miami Heat, while the Sacramento Kings are in 13th in the Western Conference at 18-32 after losing five straight.

The post REPORT: Sacramento Kings Out of the Running For Ben Simmons appeared first on SLAM.

According to The Athletic, the Kings will remain active in trade conversations but have informed teams in the trade market that are intent on building their franchise around Fox and Tyrese Haliburton. The Kings reportedly informed Fox and his representation that they do not want to trade him and want to center the team around him and Haliburton as well.

The Athletic further reports that a deal for Domantas Sabonis will not happen. It remains to be seen how the Kings decision will impact their ability to trade for Ben Simmons.

According to Jason Anderson of the Sacramento Bee, the Sacrament Kings are shopping De’Aaron Fox in trade talks for Indiana Pacers All-Star Domantas Sabonis and Ben Simmons ahead of the NBA’s trade deadline in February,

Fox was reportedly off the table in trade discussions during the offseason, but the Kings (18-28) are 11th in the Western Conference and have reversed course as they fight for a spot in the play-in tournament.

The Kings were also rumored to have been involved in trade talks with the Philadelphia 7ers for Simmons during the offseason, but negotiations stalled since the Kings didn’t want to give up Fox. That has reportedly changed, per Anderson, The Athletic’s Sam Amick reported on The Athletic NBA Show podcast that he sees Sabonis and Simmons as the KIngs’ two biggest priorities ahead of the trade deadline.

The Kings rewarded Fox with a five-year contract extension after the 24-year-old point guard averaged a career-high 25.2 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 7.2 assists per game last season while shooting 47.7 percent from the field and 32.2 percent from deep. The front-office brass reportedly had lofty expectations of Fox, expecting the Kentucky product to match or exceed those numbers during the 2021-2022 season.

Through 42 games, Fox is putting 20.9 points, 5.1 assists, 3.7 rebounds on 45.7 percent shooting from the field, and a career-worse 25.3 percent from downtown.

For Sabonis, his name has been involved in trade talks since December. The Pacers are 15-29, 13th in the East, and are reportedly looking to rebuild and move Sabonis, Caris LeVert, and Myles Turner. The two-time All-Star has put up solid numbers, averaging 18.9 points, 11.9 rebounds, 4.7 assists, and 1.0 steal per game on top of shooting 57.3 percent from the floor.

Exchanging Fox for Sabonis or Simmons could reverse the fortunes of the Kings who have toiled through two decades of perennial futility. Sacramento hasn’t reached the playoffs since 2005-06, the longest active drought in the League by 10 years. Trading Sabonis, LeVert, and Turner will only accelerate the Pacers’ reported intent to rebuild.

The post REPORT: Kings Intend On Keeping De’Aaron Fox and Building Around Him and Tyrese Haliburton appeared first on SLAM.

“The Philadelphia 76ers canvassed the prospect of a Fox, Ben Simmons trade package as recently as a few days ago, but dialogue remains exploratory due diligence, league sources told Yahoo Sports.

The Kings, under second-year general manager Monte McNair, are expected to be aggressively active at the trade deadline, sources said. The front office has been given the green light by team owner Vivek Radavine to survey all options with the goal of drastically improving the roster.”

With the Interest in Fox and his backcourt teammate, Tyrese Haliburton, increasing with each passing day, Fox understands this is a part of the business of being in the NBA. His focus right now is not worrying about things he can’t control.

“If you do have a change of scenery, it changes everything. I’ve been here for five years. I’ve built a life here, a family here. But once I’m on the court, all that is out the window.” Fox said. “You’re not thinking about anything else that can happen outside of your control. 

But I’ve been through some deadlines. I’ve seen people get traded at the last second. You try not to think about it, but you know it’s a business, and anything can happen. I’m not sure what’s going to happen. Obviously, you see reports on Twitter. Am I worried about it? No. Can it happen? Yeah, it can definitely happen.”

Simmons reportedly has already made it clear that he is “open” to a trade to the Kings back in October.

De’Aaron Fox is averaging 20.9 points, 5.1 assists, and 3.7 rebounds this season.

The post De’Aaron Fox Speaks On Potential Ben Simmons Trade Rumors appeared first on SLAM.

According to Kevin O’Connor of The Ringer, Kings general manager Monte McNair’s decision to select two-point guards in the previous drafts, Tyrese Haliburton in 2020 and Davion Mitchell in 2021, may point to the Kings thinking about moving on from Fox.

The Kings were also mentioned as a trade partner with the Philadelphia 76ers for Ben Simmons, despite the King’s three-guard rotation being deemed unavailable. Shooting guard Buddy Hield has been brought in trade rumors.

Fox has been tremendous during his time with the Sacramento Kings; in just five seasons, the Kentucky product has averaged 18.3 points, 6.3 assists, and 1.3 steals per game, becoming a driving force behind their 39-43 record in the 2018-2019 season, their best in recent years. Fox is down in the scoring and passing department in year five, averaging 20.1 points and 5.5 assists per game. The figures are his lowest since the 2018-2019 campaign.

The post REPORT: De’Aaron Fox Could Be A Central Piece in Kings Trade Talks appeared first on SLAM.

Collaborating with artists and influencers across a variety of genres is the cornerstone of  SLAM’s ØNE ’N DØNE series, which celebrates the game we love. It’s about seeing the beauty

in the sport of basketball through a unique lens, re-energizing classic moments and materials and giving them new life by reimagining their purpose. 

For just that reason, the ØNE ’N DØNE collaboration with Peder Cho makes all the sense in the world. The Wisconsin native gained notoriety on TikTok for his DIY-style of upcycling upscale materials, like a worn Louis Vuitton handbag or a Gucci dust bag, and turning them into new, authentic one-of-one items. 

In an effort to help promote sustainability, Peder Cho, founder and designer of Utopia, is upcycling 75 totebags constructed with SLAM’s 27-year-old archives.

The new-age, environmentally conscious designer didn’t get to where he is by attending a design school or working as an apprentice for a veteran designer. Cut and sew wasn’t in his future. Rather, after attending Marquette University—where he was a sports marketing intern for the men’s basketball team and often practiced with the women’s squad—Cho got a job working as an accountant. His life in finance seemed good, but he felt no passion for the work. 

That all changed when he discovered a new hobby, learning how to sew at his father’s tailoring company. Cho soon tapped into his old NBA jersey collection to make new, upcycled pieces. His skills turned into fashion, and he took both his design inspiration and a desire for something different to create DIY projects his way. Aside from using OG jerseys to build up his new craft, he also credits life lessons he learned from hoops that helped him get this far. 

“What I learned the most from hooping is that you’ve just got to care only about one thing,” says Cho. “Like, if you really want a mean jumper, you’ve got to be shooting a lot. You’re not just going to wake up and have it. You want the handles, you’ve got to be hooping a lot. So I thought if I want to be cold at sewing, I’ve got to be sewing a lot. And, like, endlessly.”

SLAM x Utopia—The Reinvention of The Game presents a different application for the tattered and torn up gear of our old drops. Cho has upcycled 15 basketball pillows constructed out of SLAM apparel.

At the beginning, Cho was making items for himself and his friends, but before he knew it, a full-fledged business was created, one that saw celebrities and fashion houses reaching out to work together.

Using his skill and social media platform, Cho turned hype into substance by creating Utopia, his custom brand. Among the companies who have commissioned him for bespoke pieces are Target, Reebok, Nike ACG and Jordan Brand. He’s also created pieces for NBA players like Tyrese Haliburton. 

Loving ball the way he does, Cho says working with SLAM on “The Reinvention of the Game” collab is a testament to what Utopia stands for. 

“NBA players have to reinvent their game throughout their careers if they want to stay in the League,” Cho says. “We took that same idea, but using old magazines from years ago, old stock, to make a tote bag. And now you have all these memories from this old time. Someone might have owned this SLAM Magazine and feel like they want this one for that exact reason.” 

The post Designer Peder Cho Collabs with SLAM on Exclusive Tote Bags and Pillows Made From Recycled Materials appeared first on SLAM.

The latest development in this ongoing story comes on Friday when the The Athletic’s David Aldrige reveals that Simmons would be open to a trade to the Sacramento Kings.

“I’ve written this on Simmons to Sac before, and the rationale still holds. Simmons is an elite defensive player. He’s an elite passer. He has four years left on his deal. (He would have no problem going to Sacramento, I’m told, so strong is his desire to get out of Philadelphia.)”

It remains to be seen whether Ben Simmons gives in and shows up to the Sixers.

What was made clear to @sam_amick is that all hope of reconciliation is gone.

More: https://t.co/5z4nkg2gr3 pic.twitter.com/hkKBOrSaCe

— The Athletic NBA (@TheAthleticNBA) October 8, 2021

Earlier in the Summer, reports came out that Simmons had an interest in playing for three different California teams leaving Kings fans to question if they were amongst one of those group teams.

It was also reported that the Sixers asking price was too steep for the Sacramento with the Kings having no interest in trading franchise centerpieces such as De’Aaron Fox and Tyrese Haliburton.

Sacramento has since drafted former Baylor standout Davion Mitchell, and Aldrige notes that the Kings’ current backcourt log jam could be fixed if Haliburton or Mitchell is utilized as the main piece in a Simmons trade.

Veteran sharpshooter Buddy Hield’s name has also shown up in multiple trade rumors regarding the 76ers.

While Kings have struggled to gain any consistency, missing the playoffs for 16 consecutive seasons, pulling off a trade for one of the best young players in the game in Simmons could certainly help trigger the turnaround. Stay tuned for more details and updates as Simmons’ time in Philadelphia comes to a close.

The post REPORT: Ben Simmons Open to Trade to the Sacramento Kings appeared first on SLAM.

During rounds up with the media, the 23-year-old point guard was vocal about becoming a better defensive player, despite commonly being heralded as one of the better defensive point guards in the League.

“I know that I have to be more consistent on that end of the floor from the first quarter to the fourth quarter,” Fox started to the group of local reporters.

“For the last few years, I’ve been near the top of the League in deflections and steals but it’s a lot more than that; it’s a lot more than just getting your hands on balls.”

Fox experienced a breakout season last year, averaging a career-high 25.2 points, 7.2 assists and 1.5 steals per game while shooting 47.7 percent from the field.

However, despite Fox’s reputation as a defensive stud, the Kings’ defensive rating (per 100 possessions) when Fox was on the floor fell to 118, the worst in franchise history. When Fox was off the court, the team’s rating was rated 10th overall (111.8).

Consequently, in the 2021 NBA Draft, Sacramento targeted Baylor guard Davion Mitchell with a top-10 pick. Mitchell became a household name during the 2021 NCAA Tournament thanks to his impressive defensive performance for the Bears.

With Mitchell (6’2”) and second-year guard Tyrese Haliburton (6’5”) both capable of holding their own on the perimeter, Fox’s improvements on that end could work wonders for a team looking to end a 16-season playoff drought.

Especially as, at 6’3,” Fox is a player who could legitimately play extensive minutes beside those two guards.

The post De’Aaron Fox, Kings Focused on Defensive Improvement Heading Into 2021-22 appeared first on SLAM.

According to Jason Anderson of The Sacramento Bee, Kings have expressed interest in the All-Star guard. 

Kings GM Monte McNair and Sixers president Daryl Morey spent 13 years together with the Houston Rockets, so their relationship could certainly play a big role in trade talks. With that in mind, Anderson also reported that De’Aaron Fox has not been discussed in any of these packages.

The Sixers have a high price tag on Simmons, with sources saying the Kings would have to send a minimum of three first-round picks or have Fox or Tyrese Haliburton included in the trade.

While it will take a huge package to pry Simmons away from Philadelphia, the Kings need to make a big splash this summer to turn the franchise around. 

The post Sacramento Kings Linked to Sixers’ Ben Simmons appeared first on SLAM.

The roster, which features some of the most young and promising players in professional basketball, will be coached by Miami Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra, Gonzaga University head coach Mark Few and Dallas Mavericks assistant coach Jamahl Mosley.

A roster of 13 young @nba standouts & 4 veteran players with international experience make up the 2021 USA Men’s Select Team that will train with #USABMNT July 6-9.

— USA Basketball (@usabasketball) July 1, 2021

The roster features seven rookies from the 2020 NBA Draft class in Anthony Edwards (Minnesota Timberwolves), Saddiq Bey (Detroit Pistons), Tyrese Haliburton (Sacramento Kings), Immanuel Quickley (New York Knicks), Isaiah Stewart (Detroit Pistons), Patrick Williams (Chicago Bulls) and Obi Toppin (New York Knicks).

Sophomores and three-year pros Miles Bridges (Charlotte Hornets), Darius Garland (Cleveland Cavaliers), Tyler Herro (Miami Heat), Keldon Johnson (San Antonio Spurs), Naz Reid (Minnesota Timberwolves), P.J. Washington , (Charlotte Hornets) enter the mix as well, giving the US Select Team an intriguing stable of talent.

Four players on the roster—John Jenkins (Bilbao Basket, Italy), Cam Reynolds, Josh Magette (Darüşşafaka Tekfen, Turkey) and Dakota Mathias— all have NBA experience, and currently either play overseas or are unsigned.

Managing Director of Team USA Basketball Jerry Colangelo noted he felt confident in the program’s selection of the aforementioned players.

“This USA Select Team continues the legacy established by previous Select teams of helping prepare our USA National Team for the Tokyo Olympic Games,” said Colangelo, USA Basketball Men’s National Team managing director.

“With all the uncertainty of how many of our Olympic Team members will be available for the USA training camp because of the overlap with the NBA Finals, we chose a USA Select Team consisting of many of the top young NBA players and four players who not only own international experience, but who played recently for USA Basketball in important national team qualifying competitions.

If we need to add players to fill out our roster for any of our exhibition games, we feel this USA Select Team has an excellent variety of skilled players to choose from.”

Since the USA Basketball Men’s National Team program was developed in 2006, there have been six Select Teams fostered to help with preparation for events (2007, 2008, 2010, 2012, 2016, 2021.)

The inaugural roster featured then up-and-coming players such as Andre Iguodala, Al Jefferson, David Lee and J.J. Redick.

Team USA’s Select Team begins their Olympic journey on July 25, where they will be competing in the Group A bracket.

The post Team USA Select Team Roster Announced for Tokyo Olympics appeared first on SLAM.

If the NBA and WNBA tunnel is a modern-day runway then LeagueFits is both a digital fashion magazine and a basketball social media account in one. No fit goes unnoticed: from Terrance Mann’s all-denim ensemble to Russell Westbrook’s earth-toned attire with a checkered beanie to match, to Chris Paul’s purple co-ord set.

The account, which launched in April of 2018, has over 815k followers across Instagram and Twitter and has been covered and featured in actual fashion magazines, from Vogue and Vanity Fair to GQ and ELLE. Named as one of the “Best Fashion Instagram Accounts to Follow Right Now” in Dec. 2020 by Footwear News, LeagueFits sits at the intersection of the basketball world and the fashion world.

LeagueFits creative producer Ian Pierno and super intern Joe Williams will dive deeper into the world of basketball fashion and pop culture as hosts of the highly-anticipated new podcast, ‘Survival of the Fitted.’

The show will feature conversations with some of the most fashionable athletes, designers, stylists, and influencers in the game. The premiere episode, which drops today, features one of the faces of NBA fashion, Austin Rivers.

In the kickoff episode, Pierno and Williams discuss what inspires his personal style, how fashion is connected to how he sees himself in the world, and what the strangest piece of clothing ever gifted to him was. Ian and Joe also talk Floyd vs Logan Paul, the 2021 All-Drip Teams, whether or not Joe should have a vote #FreeJoe, and answer a set of mailbag questions. Listen here.

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Future episodes already recorded are with Ty Young (6/15), Tyrese Haliburton (6/22), Elijah Hughes (6/29), and Michael Carter-Williams (7/6). Episodes will drop every Tuesday. Stay tuned.

‘Survival of the Fitted‘ is co-produced by SLAM and Tidal League.

The post LeagueFits’ Podcast, ‘Survival of the Fitted’ Out Now—First Episode Feat. Austin Rivers appeared first on SLAM.

MVP FINALISTS:

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The MVP race will be a tight one, with three very deserving finalists. Stephen Curry ended the season as the NBA’s leading scorer, averaging 32 points per game this year while shooting 42.1 percent from three-point range on over 12 attempts per game.

Nikola Jokic, the favorite for the award, played in every game this season and averaged 26.4 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 8.3 assists per game. Joel Embiid had an incredible season and is averaging 28.5 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks per game.

DPOY FINALISTS:

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Defensive Player of the Year may be less of a mystery, with Rudy Gobert, who is averaging 13.5 rebounds and 2.7 blocks per game, is the runaway favorite. Ben Simmons, who is averaging 7.2 boards and 1.6 steals per game, and Draymond Green (7.1 rebounds, 1.7 steals) both had excellent seasons on the defensive end as well.

SIXTH MAN FINALISTS:

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The sixth man of the year will come down to a pair of Utah Jazz players, Jordan Clarkson and Joe Ingles, and Derrick Rose. Clarkson has been a scoring machine all year, averaging 18.4 points per game.

As for his teammate, Ingles has a well-rounded case and is averaging 12.1 points, 4.7 assists and 3.6 rebounds per game. Rose has been no slouch either, with his time with the Knicks proving crucial to their success and averaging 14.7 points per game to boot.

ROY FINALISTS:

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Rookie of the Year is down to three young guards. Anthony Edwards put up gaudy scoring numbers all season, averaging 19.3 points per game, while LaMelo Ball’s 15.7 points, 5.9 rebounds and 6.1 assists per game for a near playoff team is hard to ignore. Tyrese Haliburton is a distant third in this race, but he had a very respectable rookie season for Sacramento.

MOST IMPROVED FINALISTS:

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The Most Improved Player Award is another one where little debate is needed. Julius Randle has had an unbelievable season for the Knicks, going for more than 24.1 points per game on the fourth-best team in the Eastern Conference while being named an All-Star.

The two other finalists are one current Denver Nugget, Michael Porter Jr., and one former Nugget, Jerami Grant. Porter Jr. took a huge step in his second season, averaging 19 points per game while shooting 44.5 percent from three-point range. Grant went from averaging no more than 14 points per game at any point in his career to averaging 22.3 points per game.

COACH OF THE YEAR FINALISTS:

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Quin Snyder and Monty Williams will both have excellent cases, leading their teams to first and second in the Western Conference, respectively. Tom Thibodeau has a great case himself, taking a Knicks team that finished 12th in the Eastern Conference last year and pushing them to fourth in his first season.

The post NBA Announces Finalists for End of Season Awards appeared first on SLAM.

While bringing the ball upcourt in the third quarter, Haliburton attempted a behind-the-back crossover dribble and his knee appeared to give out. That ended his night, and with 11 points and 5 assists in 23 minutes.

The bad news is that play also ended Tyrese’s run during the regular season, the team announced on Tuesday.

Tyrese Haliburton Medical Update » https://t.co/7XcDXOSjE9 pic.twitter.com/qFm8xKGaQG

— Sacramento Kings (@SacramentoKings) May 5, 2021

The team also stated that Haliburton is expected to make a full recovery without surgery and will participate in “normal offseason training”.

The two-time Rookie of the Month has been one of the few bright spots for Sacramento this season, averaging 13 points and 5.3 assists, shooting 47.2% (including 40.9% from long range) in 30.1 minutes.

His numbers have jumped significantly since De’Aaron Fox has been away from the team in the NBA’s health and safety protocol. In Fox’s absence spanning five games, Haliburton averaged 18.5 points and nine assists to help lead the Kings to three wins.

The post Tyrese Haliburton Expected to Miss Remainder of Regular Season Due to Knee Injury appeared first on SLAM.

The U.S. Team will be headlined by LaMelo Ball (Charlotte Hornets), Zion Williamson (New Orleans Pelicans), Ja Morant (Memphis Grizzlies) and Anthony Edwards (Minnesota Timberwolves) — four potential superstars with flair to match their talent. The quartet will be joined by James Wiseman (Golden State Warriors), Michael Porter Jr. (Denver Nuggets), Tyler Herro (Miami Heat), Tyrese Haliburton (Sacramento Kings), De’Andre Hunter (Atlanta Hawks) and Keldon Johnson (San Antonio Spurs).

The World Team will be comprised of R.J. Barrett (New York Knicks), Rui Hachimura (Washington Wizards), Facundo Campazzo (Denver Nuggets), Luguentz Dort (Oklahoma City Thunder), Brandon Clarke (Memphis Grizzlies), Nickeil Alexander-Walker (New Orleans Pelicans), Deni Avdija (Washington Wizards), Theo Maledon (Oklahoma City Thunder), Precious Achiuwa (Miami Heat) and Mychal Mulder (Golden State Warriors).

As with the 2020-21 NBA All-Star rosters, there has been rapid response and passionate debates about whether any players were left off that should have been in. Darius Garland of the Cleveland Cavaliers, whose game is easy on the eyes and has been productive for an improved Cavs team, is one such player.

However, while those players may not have received the recognition they (or their fans) desired, those that were awarded the honor of being on the Rising Star were undoubtedly deserving of their spots.

Traditionally, the Rising Stars Game would be played during All-Star Weekend but this year, there won’t be a physical game. The 2020-21 All-Star Game, Skills Challenge, Slam Dunk Contest and 3-Point Contest will all take place on Mar. 7 and aired on TNT.

The post 2020-21 Rising Stars Roster Unveiled by NBA Top Shot appeared first on SLAM.

Last season, Ja Morant won the NBA Rookie of the Award for his stellar rookie season. While him and the 2019 rookie class had a ton of talent, this new class in 2020 has made a huge impact on their respective teams this season. With a unique mix of guards, wings and bigs coming out of the 2020 NBA Draft, it’s a wide open race to this point.

A third of the way through the 2020-21 season, we broke down our top five Rookie of the Year candidates.

LaMelo Ball (Charlotte Hornets)

No. 3 Pick – 14.6 PPG, 6.2 RPG, 6.1 APG, 1.5 SPG

Ball has come off the bench for the majority of the season, but has been a quality producer when he gets his opportunities. Showing flashes of being a consistent triple-double type player, Ball is an above average rebounder for a guard and also an excellent passer. 

As soon as he became a starter on the team, his numbers only got better, making him look like perhaps the best player in his class. With his length defensively, Ball also leads the Hornets in steals per game. 

Anthony Edwards (Minnesota Timberwolves)

No. 1 Pick – 14.3 PPG, 3.5 RPG, 0.7 SPG, .316 3P%

Spending most of his time coming off the bench as a spark plug scorer this season, Edwards has shown just how high his offensive ceiling is. While his shooting splits haven’t been great, some of the moves he’s shown off have been impressive. 

If he continues to get more time, there’s no reason he couldn’t score the most points of any rookie this season. As he adjusts to the professional pace of play, his efficiency should rise. 

Tyrese Haliburton (Sacramento Kings)

No. 12 Pick – 12.5 PPG, 5.3 APG, 3.6 RPG, .452 3P%

While on draft night it looked like the Kings may have gotten a steal in Haliburton at No. 12, he’s proven that point with his high level of production. While he doesn’t have the most exciting style of play, he gets the job done in every possible way. 

When it comes to filling up the stat sheet, Haliburton is by far the best rookie. He’s shown an ability to do it all on offense as well as defense and plays well beyond his years from an IQ standpoint. 

Immanuel Quickley (New York Knicks)

No. 25 Pick – 12.4 PPG, 2.6 APG, .942 FT%, .370 3P%

The Knicks got an absolute steal in Quickley late in the first round and might have gotten their point guard of the future. With one of the most pure floaters in the entire NBA, he’s been tough to guard all season. 

Quickley has also been extremely efficient from both the free throw line and from beyond the arc. He’s been a key part of New York’s solid start to the 2020-21 season. 

James Wiseman (Golden State Warriors)

No. 2 Pick – 12.2 PPG, 6.1 RPG, 1.3 BPG, .409 3P%

Many were skeptical of drafting a center so early in the draft with the modern NBA play style, but the Warriors should be happy with their selection in Wiseman. Although he was recently benched, he’s shown flashes of being great in this league down the road. 

While he has the size to dominate in the paint and pull down rebounds, Wiseman has also shown his shooting touch and ability to run the floor. As the season goes on, expect Wiseman to continue to improve and end up being among the best in this rookie class. 

The post NBA Award Watch: 2021 Rookie of the Year appeared first on SLAM.

Mere days after breaking the record for the youngest player in NBA history to post a triple-double, Ball—the third overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft—already has an opposing head coach making a case for him to be the Rookie of the Year. In this case, Dallas Mavericks head coach Rick Carlisle pointed out Ball’s rare “flare” and “energy” in particular.

Averaging 11.7 points, 7.0 rebounds, 5.9 assists and 1.5 steals per game at 19-years-old is no insignificant feat and it’s even more impressive when realizing he’s posting those numbers while coming off the bench for 25.3 minutes per game. Per 36 minutes, Ball is averaging 16.6 points, 9.9 rebounds, 8.4 assists and 2.1 steals per game, numbers that are certainly inspiring if they’re any indication of his future production.

That said, although they’re the most impressive of his draft class, statistics are only one part of the story when it comes to Ball.

As Carlisle rightly pointed out, Ball sensational play style lends itself to team success and league-wide adoration. Although he’s not on either of their levels as a pro player yet, Ball plays like a mash-up of Magic Johnson and Stephen Curry, arguably the two best point guards in league history.

At this point, although there are other rookies who are performing well this season—like Golden State Warriors center James Wiseman or Sacramento Kings point guard Tyrese Haliburton—you would be hard-pressed to say that there’s anyone playing better than Ball has thus far.

The post Mavs HC Rick Carlisle: LaMelo Ball Looks Like Rookie Of The Year appeared first on SLAM.

We broke down the Kings’ depth chart for the 2020-21 season below. We’ve also previously published a summary of the Kings’ offseason.

Biggest Questions

• Is this the year Marvin Bagley stays healthy and takes the Kings to the next level? He’s got the potential to be one of the best bigs in the entire NBA but hasn’t been healthy enough to contribute towards a successful season in Sacramento.
• What is Buddy Hield’s future with the team? His name was thrown around all offseason when it came to trade talks. Additionally, the Kings used their recent lottery pick on a combo guard in Tyrese Haliburton who projects to be the guard that plays alongside De’Aaron Fox long-term.

All NBA Team Offseason Summaries

The post Sacramento Kings: Projected 2020-21 Depth Chart appeared first on SLAM.

The biggest question mark coming into this season is the health of Marvin Bagley. Although he has been viewed to this point as the sidekick to De’Aaron Fox, he has the talent to be the best player on this entire Kings roster. If Bagley, Fox, and the rest of this Sacramento core can stay healthy for a full season, they could have a shot at ending their playoff drought.

Kings Roster Additions

Biggest Acquisitions

• Hassan Whiteside: When it comes to bigs in the NBA, Whiteside’s name isn’t mentioned enough. While he has his flaws, Whiteside is extremely productive when it comes to scoring and cleaning the glass.
• Tyrese Haliburton: While they lost Bogdan Bogdanovic in free agency, the Kings have no room to panic with Haliburton entering their locker room. Considered one of the best guards in the entire 2020 draft class, he will be excellent now and in the future alongside Fox in the backcourt.

Kings Roster Subtractions

Biggest Losses

• Bogdan Bogdanovic: One of the most underrated guards in the league, Bogdanovic is a pure scorer. While the guard rotation seemed crowded the past few years with both him and Buddy Hield, losing Bogdanovic for nothing in return isn’t ideal.
• Harry Giles: His numbers don’t jump off the page, but Harry Giles has an extreme amount of potential and is still only 22 years old. While he was never a huge part of the Kings’ rotation, they could look back in a few years and wonder why they let him walk in free agency.

All NBA Team Offseason Summaries

The post Sacramento Kings: Offseason Summary 2020 appeared first on SLAM.

It’s tough to determine who will end up having the best rookie season without seeing them play on this stage. However, when it comes to betting odds, many sites, including Odds Shark, have LaMelo Ball as the slight favorite to win NBA Rookie of the Year in the upcoming season.

Ball wasn’t the first player taken in the 2020 NBA Draft, both Anthony Edwards and James Wiseman were taken before him, but Vegas still regards him as the favorite to bring home the trophy.

Ball has an excellent opportunity to win this award in Charlotte as he’ll arrive in town as one of the team’s primary options out of the gates. After skipping college to play a season overseas professionally, the 19-year-old guard is taking the next step into the NBA.

In less than three weeks, the 2020-21 season will officially kick off and these rookies will get the opportunity to show off their talent in real NBA action.

The post LaMelo Ball Early Favorite for Rookie of the Year appeared first on SLAM.

Presented by Foot Locker’s 12 Days of Greatness

2020 NBA Draft

2020 NBA Draft Trades & Notes

The New York Knicks packaged picks No. 27 and No. 38, then sent them to the Utah Jazz for pick No. 23 (SLAM story)

The Milwaukee Bucks acquired pick No. 45 in exchange for a pair of future second rounders (SLAM story)

The Thunder pocketed pick No. 34 tonight, along with Al Horford and a future first in exchange for Danny Green and Terrance Ferguson (SLAM story)

The Pistons will now draft at No. 16 after acquiring the pick from the Rockets along with Trevor Ariza (SLAM story)

The Oklahoma City Thunder flip Ricky Rubio to the Minnesota Timberwolves to up to No. 17 (SLAM Story)

Landry Shamet and Luke Kennard on the move in three-team deal involving pick No. 19 (SLAM Story)

Knicks trade back two spots late in first round to add early second round pick (SLAM Story)

Nuggets give up future first round pick to Pelicans to acquire RJ Hampton (SLAM Story)

Pistons acquire Tony Bradley and pick No. 38 for cash considerations (SLAM Story)

Grizzlies acquire pick No. 30 from Celtics to acquire Desmond Bane (SLAM Story)

Sixers trade Josh Richardson and No. 36 pick to Mavericks for Seth Curry (Slam Story)

Thunder pick up No. 37 pick from Wizards to select Vit Krejci (SLAM Story)

Pelicans trade Pick No. 39 to Jazz who take Elijah Hughes (SLAM Story)

Charlotte acquires Nick Richards from New Orleans who was picked at pick No. 42 (SLAM Story)

Clippers move up two spots late in second round to acquire Jay Scrubb at pick No. 55 (SLAM Story)

Kenyon Martin Jr. traded to Rockets after being selected by Sacramento with pick No. 52 (SLAM Story)

We consolidated the final 2020 NBA mock drafts from some of our favorite draft experts (SLAM story)

The post SLAM’s 2020 NBA Draft Recap appeared first on SLAM.

The question at hand is who could pair well with big-man Karl Anthony Towns? Will it be Georgia’s standout freshman Anthony Edwards, the name that is dominating the top spot on most mock draft boards, or LaMelo Ball – the flashy point guard who has been in the spotlight since he dropped 92 points for Chino Hills? Sources told ESPN that Ball had his first private workout with the Timberwolves last week and that he “shot the ball well.”

However, it sounds like the Hornets are also eyeing Ball. According to the Ringer’s Kevin O’Connor, sources say Michael Jordan has given the Hornet’s front office the go-ahead to draft Ball if they keep the third pick.

Then there’s James Wiseman, a unicorn that has remained a mystery ever since his freshman season at Memphis was cut short due to certain circumstances. Mock draft boards are predicting that Wiseman could also go either No. 2 or 3. While there’s upside in Ball, but Wiseman, as ESPN’s Jonathan Givony wrote is that, “Wiseman might be better equipped to immediately help the franchise return to the NBA Finals.”

While those names dominate the top three spots, the rest of the draft is stacked with prospects that are just as intriguing. Deni Avdija and Killian Hayes are two international prospects that some say could “lay to rest” the league’s “decades-old international stereotypes.” Other names, such as Obi Toppin, Tyrese Haliburton, Patrick Williams, Patrick Williams, Onyeka Okongwu and Devin Vassell have all been bouncing around the top-ten spots on draft boards.

As for RJ Hampton, Cole Anthony, Tryese Maxey and Josh Green, they’re all hovering around the latter part of the first-round.

Mock Draft boards have been updating, predicting and speculating all day. To make sense of it all, we’ve rounded up mock drafts from the league’s draft experts, to give you a sense of what tonight’s selections could look like:

AGGREGATED 2020 NBA MOCK DRAFT

This aggregate mock draft pulls the latest updates from ESPN, The Athletic, Tankathon, Bleacher Report, The Ringer and NBADraft.net.

The post Consolidated 2020 NBA Mock Draft appeared first on SLAM.

Because the team’s two best players — Blake Griffin and Derrick Rose — are both injury-prone and at least 30-years-old, this isn’t the typical case of using the offseason to build around the current cornerstones. To that point, neither Griffin nor Rose can be seen as franchise cornerstones as they’ll both become free agents within the next two seasons.

Therefore, Detroit will have to hope that they’re one of the teams that can find a high-level starter — if not a player with All-Star potential — with a pick outside the top-five.

Related: Full Detroit Pistons 2020 Salary Cap Preview

2020 NBA Draft Picks

Pistons Draft Needs

As previously mentioned, what the Pistons need is a prospect with star potential. Although this is seen as one of the weaker drafts, Detroit should at least be able to find a player that can be part of the team’s core for years to come.

Both offense and defense were a problem for the Pistons last season so a player who specializes in either rather than being balanced would be fine. Nonetheless, offensive production is the most important factor in winning in today’s league, so Detroit would be best served by locating a talented scorer with the seventh overall pick.

Along the perimeter, the Pistons have a couple players who are solid offensively in Rose and Luke Kennard. Versatile forward Sekou Doumbouya, the 15th overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft, flashed his potential in the NBA G League. However, they need more firepower on the wing and that could be what they use the draft for.

That said, should big man Christian Wood not be re-signed, Detroit should look to replace the hole left by him (and Andre Drummond) at center.

2020 NBA Draft Prospect Watchlist

What The Mocks Are Saying

Projected Roster

Team-by-Team NBA Draft Guides

More: SLAM’s 2020 NBA Draft Preview

The post Detroit Pistons: 2020 NBA Draft Preview appeared first on SLAM.

New York is re-branding itself, hiring former agent Leon Rose as team president; the highly influential William Wesley as executive vice president and senior advisor; and tough-nosed Tom Thibodeau as head coach. Trying to become an attractive free agent destination again after multiple years of being spurned by marquee players, the next step for the Knicks after rebuilding the executive suite is handling business on the court.

The jury is still out on R.J. Barrett and Kevin Knox, the team’s two last lottery picks. However, with a top-10 pick in the 2020 NBA Draft and the strong play of Mitchell Robinson, New York has a legitimate chance of becoming one of the league’s up-and-coming teams.

Related: Full New York Knicks 2020 Salary Cap Preview

Knicks Draft Needs

New York needs help in a lot of different areas and, with their lottery pick, should be looking to take the best player available regardless of fit. More than likely, the Knicks will be able to find away to get said prospect on the court, regardless of if he plays that same position of Knox, Barrett or Robinson.

Yet, it can’t be understated how much the Knicks need a point guard of the future. While Frank Ntilikina is frankly underrated and Elfrid Payton is a solid young lead guard, neither are the explosive scorers that have become increasingly popular and beneficial to a team’s success.

It’s possible that New York finds that player with one of their last two picks, as this draft has plenty of quality point guards to choose from.

2020 NBA Draft Prospect Watchlist

What The Mocks Are Saying

Projected Roster

The post New York Knicks: 2020 NBA Draft Preview appeared first on SLAM.

They may even want to use their cap space to sign one or two high quality free agents to supplement their rotation while using the bulk of it to facilitate the trade for a star.

Nonetheless, with the trade market scarce on All-Star talent, Atlanta may be forced to keep their first-round pick no matter what they desire.

Related: Full Atlanta Hawks 2020 Salary Cap Preview

2020 NBA Draft Picks

Hawks Draft Needs

The Hawks have one of the best young cores in the league and with the sixth overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft, they can add a solid young player that will them keep their potential championship window open for a considerable amount of time.

Looking at the roster, Atlanta could use another shooting guard but a combo guard would be ideal. Not just because they need to find ways to address what happens if Trae Young isn’t available but because they need to find ways to generate offense without Young being on the court.

Last season, with Young on the court, the Hawks’ offensive rating was 112.6. With him off of the court, their offensive rating plummeted to 98.5.

Atlanta also needs to address the depth behind starter John Collins. Collins has developed into a big man who’s equally proficient around the rim and the perimeter, so it may be difficult to find a player who can replicate that. However, the 2020 NBA Draft is littered with power forward (and combo forward) prospects.

2020 NBA Draft Prospect Watchlist

What The Mocks Are Saying

Projected Roster

Team-by-Team NBA Draft Guides

More: SLAM’s 2020 NBA Draft Preview

The post Atlanta Hawks: 2020 NBA Draft Preview appeared first on SLAM.

Led by two strong scorers in Devin Booker and Deandre Ayton, the Suns’ trade for Kelly Oubre (who averaged 18.7 points per game with Phoenix) was the icing on the cake offensively. Now it’s time for Phoenix to focus on improving their defense, as they need stout defenders in both the backcourt and frontcourt.

Related: Full Phoenix Suns 2020 Salary Cap Table

2020 NBA Draft Picks

Suns Draft Needs

As of today, the Suns are basically all offense and no defense.

That’s fine for franchises that don’t mind fielding middling teams or having to scratch and claw their way into the playoffs. Yet, it’s difficult to believe that a team that has three-time NBA champion James Jones as it’s general manager and Jerry Colangelo as a managing partner would align themselves with an organization that’s satisfied with being average, let alone mediocre.

With just one pick in the 2020 NBA Draft, and a lottery pick at that, Phoenix has to continue drafting well. After drafting defensive standouts Mikal Bridges with the 10th overall pick in 2018 and Cameron Johnson with the 11th overall pick in 2019, the Suns need to address their defensive presence in the backcourt.

2020 NBA Draft Prospect Watchlist

What The Mocks Are Saying

Projected Roster

Team-by-Team NBA Draft Guides

More: SLAM’s 2020 NBA Draft Preview

The post Phoenix Suns: 2020 NBA Draft Preview appeared first on SLAM.

Wall has looked explosive in videos that have surfaced of him playing pickup games against other NBA players this offseason but there’s still a question of what kind of results his re-emergence will yield. With a top-10 pick in the draft, the Wizards will have the option of finding their point guard of the future or looking for another cornerstone piece regardless of position.

Related: Full Washington Wizards 2020 Salary Cap Preview

2020 NBA Draft Picks

Wizards Draft Needs

Washington’s depth at center and the wing needs to be shored up but that’s what they should use their second-round pick on.

With the ninth overall pick, the Wizards need to look for a prospect that can either replace Wall (if the former first overall pick doesn’t look he’ll regain his dominant form), or they need to find the prospect that fits best between Wall, Bradley Beal and Rui Hachimura. Ideally, that player will be a strong outside shooter that flourishes off-ball.

There’s no need to try to find a potential replacement for Beal in this draft (i.e. Georgia’s Anthony Edwards), even if he can become a free agent in 2022, as it may help push him out of the door.

2020 NBA Draft Prospect Watchlist

What The Mocks Are Saying

Projected Roster

Team-by-Team NBA Draft Guides

More: SLAM’s 2020 NBA Draft Preview

The post Washington Wizards: 2020 NBA Draft Preview appeared first on SLAM.

According to The Ringer‘s Kevin O’Connor, Minnesota have had talks with the Hawks about acquiring the sixth overall pick.

In such a deal, O’Connor speculates that Minnesota would trade the 17th pick and Jarrett Culver—the sixth overall pick in last year’s draft—to the Atlanta.

Sources: The Timberwolves are attempting to acquire a second lottery pick. They’ve had talks with the Hawks for #6. A possible deal could include Jarrett Culver and #17.

A number of teams are interested in Atlanta’s #6 pick—the Pelicans and Celtics being among them, sources say.

— Kevin O'Connor (@KevinOConnorNBA) November 11, 2020

While Minnesota may have already had discussions with Atlanta, O’Connor adds that the Timberwolves will have competition from multiple teams.

O’Connor pinpoints two prospects—forward Patrick Williams and point guard Tyrese Haliburton—that the Timberwolves could have their eye on.

The post 2020 NBA Draft: Wolves Looking To Acquire Second Lottery Pick appeared first on SLAM.

The 2020 NBA Draft lottery will take place later today, allowing one of the league’s 14 non-playoff clubs the opportunity to potentially reverse their fortunes with the first crack at the top eligible prospects.

This year’s lottery winner, unlike in years past, will have to choose between several worthy candidates for the top pick. With added malleability at the top of the draft, however, comes added pressure, as history has its way of remembering when teams miss big on franchise altering talent.

While the race for the top spot on big boards has been close all season, Georgia shooting guard Anthony Edwards has surfaced at the top of most draft experts’ lists on the day of the lottery.

There’s no guarantee that whichever team comes out victorious in the lottery will make him their new franchise cornerstone but his upside is more than enough to excite organizations eager for an injection of youth and potential.

Ex-Memphis product James Wiseman is a plausible candidate to get picked first overall, as is LaMelo Ball after spending part of the 2019-20 campaign playing professionally in Australia.

Those three occupy the top three spots on most draft experts’ big boards but they’re not the only options for teams looking to the draft for help. Kevin O’Connor of The Ringer, for example, has long been beating the drum of French export Killian Hayes and other prospects like Dayton’s Obi Toppin and USC’s Onyeka Okongwu have flirted with the spotlight.

We’ve rounded up mock drafts from some of the league’s foremost draft authorities so you can get a sense of what teams around the league have at stake when the virtual ping pong balls drop later today.

Aggregate 2020 NBA Mock Draft

This aggregate mock draft pulls the latest updates from ESPN, The Athletic, Tankathon, The Ringer and NBADraft.net. These are pre-lottery mock drafts which essentially means that they take on the form of big boards more than any reasonable predictions.

Related: SLAM’s official mock draft from April, 2020
Related: Team representatives for the 2020 NBA Draft Lottery
Related: Past trades involving picks in the 2020 NBA Draft Lottery

The post Aggregate 2020 NBA Lottery Mock Draft appeared first on SLAM.

Each member of the SLAM Fam was assigned a team to pick for. Below are the results + explanations.

Special Offer: Click Here To Get 15% Off NBA Store With Code NBASLAM15

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1. GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS: Anthony Edwards (6-5 Guard, Georgia)

CLASS: Freshman (18 years old)

2019-20 STATS: 19.1 points, 5.2 rebounds, 2.8 assists, 40% shooting from the field

First things first: The Golden State Warriors are not about to draft a third Splash Brother. Anthony Edwards may not be a great three-point shooter, but that’s arguably the only thing he doesn’t already do at an elite level. As he showed pretty much every night during an SEC Freshman of the Year campaign at Georgia—and as comparisons to Donovan Mitchell, Victor Oladipo, and even Dwyane Wade make clear—the 6-5, 225-pound combo guard has all the tools necessary to be a difference maker in the NBA. With Steph and Klay both in their 30s and coming off major injuries, the Dubs need to be thinking about the backcourt of the future. Edwards could be their next All-Star SG. — Ryan Jones

2. CLEVELAND CAVALIERS: LaMelo Ball (6-8 Guard, Illawarra Hawks of the NBL)

AGE: 19 years old

2019-20 STATS: 17.0 points, 7.6 rebounds, 6.8 assists, 1.6 steals, shooting 38% from the field

I’m gonna ignore that this pick adds a third point guard to a young team and just roll with the kid that I think is an incredible talent that any team would be lucky to have. Last we saw of LaMelo, he was a 6-7 point guard who can shoot from deep, put the ball on the floor and make the smart pass. Now I hear he’s sprouted to 6-8, grown into his lanky frame and become a more confident playmaker. That’s tough to pass on, regardless when the pick is being made. I realize this would create a logjam at the PG spot—LaMelo, Collin Sexton and Darius Garland seem unlikely to successfully share the ball—but it gives Cleveland a hell of a group of young players to develop and/or trade for other guys as the next season nears (or in the distant future). — Adam Figman

3. MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES: James Wiseman (7-1 Center, Memphis)

CLASS: Freshman (18 years old)

2019-20 STATS (three games): 19.7 points, 10.7 rebounds, 3.0 blocks, shooting 77% from the field

Karl-Anthony Towns’ capacity to match imposing physical size with guard-like quickness has proven to be the quality that separates him from many of the League’s bigs. James Wiseman has a skill-set, frame and athletic ability that almost mirrors that of Towns. Wiseman, who left Memphis after just three games, has consistent 20-point, 10-rebound potential written all over him. Pairing a forceful yet talented big man duo with D’Angelo Russell could be the right way to finally bring the Wolves back to the hunt. — Max Resetar

4. ATLANTA HAWKS: Obi Toppin (6-9 Forward, Dayton)

CLASS: Sophomore (22 years old)

2019-20 STATS: 20.0 points, 7.5 rebounds, shooting 63% from the field and 39% from three

The 6-9 redshirt sophomore became a SportsCenter regular thanks to his high-flying finishes, but overall was a super-efficient scorer despite a high usage. Prior to the NCAA suspending all remaining games, the Brooklyn native had positioned Dayton as a potential No. 1 seed in the NCAA tournament. The Flyers held a 29-2 record—easily the best season in school history.  He was already named National POY by USA Today, CBS Sports, NBC Sports and The Athletic, and is widely considered the front-runner for the prestigious Naismith Men’s College Player of the Year award. Additionally, Toppin was the only unanimous selection for the AP All-America teams. While the Hawks already have John Collins and Clint Capella in the paint, Toppin’s resume is worthy of serious consideration. — Franklyn Calle

5. DETROIT PISTONS: Deni Avdija (6-9 Forward, Maccabi Tel Aviv)

AGE: 19 years old

2019-20 STATS: 7.7 points, 4.1 rebounds, shooting 51% from the field (19.8 mpg)

Four of the highest ceiling prospects have already come off the board, but the Detroit Pistons can still pocket a valuable building block with this No. 5 pick as they turn to the future. Despite the fact that they already have ambiguously tantalizing combo forward Sekou Doumbouya and breakout stretch Christian Wood, the Pistons should take a long look at 19-year-old utility forward Deni Avdija. Avdija has impressed as a transition quarterback in the Israeli Premier League and looks comfortable enough handling the ball and pulling up from beyond the arc to project as an intriguing offensive option at the next level. Defensively, his length and discipline should help him at least make an impact, but if he’s going to see time at the three, or even at the four, in today’s small ball era, he’ll need to show that he can match NBA speed and athleticism.  — Austin Kent

6. NEW YORK KNICKS: Cole Anthony (6-3 Guard, North Carolina)

CLASS: Freshman (19 years old)

2019-20 STATS: 18.5 points, 5.7 rebounds, 4.0 assists, shooting 38% from the field and 35% from three

This just makes sense for so many reasons. 1) The Knicks continue to search for a consistent playmaker at the point guard position. Cole uses his explosive athleticism to get to the paint and put constant pressure on the defense. Which brings us to 2) The Knicks offense currently ranks 29th in the NBA and they desperately covet scoring. Cole averaged just under 20 points per game for the Tar Heels and, while a solid facilitator, is more aggressive than passive. Right now, the Garden needs that. And, of course, there’s 3) Cole grew up in New York City and his father, Greg Anthony, was a PG for the Knicks from 1991-95, when the team was making deep playoff runs. As long as Cole takes care of the ball and RJ Barrett improves his perimeter shooting, the two could form the backcourt that turns things around for a franchise that hasn’t finished over .500 since 2012-13. — Alex Squadron

7. CHICAGO BULLS: Tyrese Haliburton (6-5 Guard, Iowa State)

CLASS: Sophomore (20 years old)

2019-20 STATS: 15.2 points, 5.9 rebounds, 6.5 assists, 2.5 steals, shooting 50% from the field and 42% from three

The underachieving Bulls showed that they need help in several areas—shooting and defense in particular. Iowa State sophomore point guard Tyrese Haliburton excels in those domains, and then some. Haliburton, who just turned 20, averaged 15.2 points (on 50/42/82 shooting splits), 6.5 dimes, 5.9 boards and 2.5 steals this season. A pass-first playmaker, he would fit perfectly alongside scorers Coby White and Zach LaVine. Standing 6-5 with a crazy wingspan, Haliburton could easily guard positions 1-3, giving Chicago more switch-ability on the perimeter. And not to be overlooked, Haliburton brings great character to a team—lauded by Iowa State coach Steve Prohm for his “winning demeanor.” — Ryne Nelson

8. CHARLOTTE HORNETS: RJ Hampton (6-5 Guard, New Zealand Breakers of the NBL)

AGE: 19 years old

2019-20 STATS: 8.8 points, 3.8 rebounds, 2.4 assists, shooting 40% from the field

RJ Hampton, a 6-5, 185-pound point guard would be a nice, perhaps long-term fit for the Charlotte Hornets. The 19-year-old, who skipped college and took his talents to Australia, would have an uphill battle for minutes in a backcourt featuring Devonte’ Graham and Terry Rozier. Hampton is an elite ball-handler—able to break down defenses with dribble penetration—and has plenty of athletic ability. Unlike most of his peers in the 2020 NBA Draft, RJ had a taste of the fierce competition that awaits him in the League. His New Zealand Breakers faced both the OKC Thunder and Memphis Grizzlies in a pair of exhibition games last October, and though his jumper struggled, Hampton knows he’s well on his way: “I’m having a lot of fun.” — Marcel Mutoni

9. WASHINGTON WIZARDS: Onyeka Okongwu (6-9 Forward, USC)

CLASS: Freshman (19 years old)

2019-20 STATS: 16.2 points, 8.6 rebounds, 2.7 blocks, 1.2 steals, shooting 62% from the field

If you’d heard of Onyeka Okongwu before 2018, it was probably as a footnote in a story about his world-famous high school teammates. Okongwu played at Chino Hills with the Ball brothers, where he spent his early years in anonymity before LaMelo left California for Lithuania. Thrust into a leading role, Big O led Chino to a state title, and added a 35-point, 14-rebound, five-block performance against Zion Williamson at the 2018 Hoophall Classic along the way. In one season at USC, the crazy athletic 6-9 big showed enough potential to warrant top-5 pick consideration. Okongwu’s NBA comparisons range everywhere from Montrezl Harrell to Bam Adebayo—at minimum, he’s a versatile defender who can step in right away and protect the rim for a Washington team sorely lacking in that area. Projecting him alongside a healthy Wall, Beal, Hachimura and (maybe) Bertans in 2020-21 would certainly have Wizards fans eyeing a return to the postseason. — Abe Schwadron

10. PHOENIX SUNS: Nico Mannion (6-3 Guard, Arizona)

CLASS: Freshman (19 years old)

2019-20 STATS: 14.0 points, 5.3 assists, 1.2 steals, shooting 39% from the field

Nico Mannion is one of the smoothest and most skilled point guards in this year’s draft. His father, Pace Mannion, played in the NBA and finished his career in Italy, where Nico was born. Once they moved back to the states, Nico played in Phoenix at Pinnacle High School and then for the Arizona Wildcats. At 6-3, he has great pace and court vision. He’s smooth off the bounce and can create for himself and his teammates. He’s a shot maker and has all the tools to be an elite guard at the pro level. Phoenix is a good fit for Mannion, as he can learn alongside Rubio in the city where he’s been playing for years. — Bryan LaRussa

11. SAN ANTONIO SPURS: Jaden McDaniels (6-9 Forward, Washington)

CLASS: Freshman (19 years old)

2019-20 STATS: 13.0 points, 5.8 rebounds, 1.4 blocks, shooting 41% from the field and 34% from three

I’m well aware of what happened in his lone season at Washington and what scouts and analysts have said regarding a player that they feel teams should take caution with. I know about the benchings at UW, critiques of his decision-making on the court and the other asterisks that might have been attached to his name. But the Spurs’ culture—and everything they stand for—couldn’t be a better place for McDaniels to start his NBA career. There are valuable OGs on that roster—Patty Mills, DeMar DeRozan, Rudy Gay and LaMarcus Aldridge—and another Washington guy in Dejounte Murray that could take the incoming rook under their wings. And did I mention being in the same vicinity and learning from a HOFer in Tim Duncan? The Spurs have a “we-over-me” ethos and a track record that speaks for itself. San Antonio is a perfect destination for someone with Jaden’s stature and skill set. — Drew Ruiz

12. SACRAMENTO KINGS: Isaac Okoro (6-6 Forward, Auburn)

CLASS: Freshman (19 years old)

2019-20 STATS: 12.9 points, 4.4 rebounds, 2.0 assists, shooting 51% from the field

A year ago, you might not have known the name Isaac Okoro. Coming out of McEachern High School in Atlanta, GA, Okoro was a four-star recruit who didn’t have the hype he likely warranted. That changed quickly, though. The 6-6 freshman was surrounded by seniors in the starting lineup at Auburn and still separated himself. With his versatility and explosiveness, Okoro climbed the ranks and shouldn’t fall past this spot in the 2020 Draft. Isaac is a lockdown defender who can score in a variety of ways but doesn’t demand the ball offensively. He’ll have no problem letting guards De’Aaron Fox, Buddy Hield and Bogdan Bogdanovich (should they all return) run the show, sliding in seamlessly right away and hopefully helping the Kings level up after a disappointing 2019-20 season. — Alex Squadron

13. NEW ORLEANS PELICANS: Precious Achiuwa (6-9 Forward, Memphis)

CLASS: Freshman (20 years old)

2019-20 STATS: 15.8 points, 10.8 rebounds, 1.9 blocks, shooting 49% from the field

First off, this pick is for Queens, NY, being that I can’t remember the last time the borough had an NBA lottery pick. Coming off an eventful freshman season, Precious Achiuwa averaged 15.8 points and 10.8 rebounds per game before the sports world was put on freeze. Achiuwa should be a major addition to the young highlight reel Pelicans. The 6-9, 225-pound forward has all the tools to make an impact right away. With Lonzo Ball coming off his best NBA season and Zion’s short, but dominant, run, the Pelicans should look to add another forward with their star Brandon Ingram possibly testing the FA market this summer. Regardless, Precious will bring more athleticism and explosiveness to a budding roster. — Nick Torres

14. PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS: Devin Vassell (6-6 Guard, Florida State)

CLASS: Sophomore (19 years old)

2019-20 STATS: 12.7 points, 5.1 rebounds, 1.4 steals, shooting 49% from the field and 41% from three

With the Blazers set to enter the 2020-21 season at nearly full strength after an injury-filled 2019-20 campaign, the team needs reinforcements to shore up its roster and make a run at the Western Conference’s best. A rookie that could step in and provide shooting and defense on the wing would help strengthen the team’s supporting cast around the Lillard-McCollum-Nurkic core. Enter Devin Vassell. The 6-6 guard from Florida State evolved into the team’s leading scorer (12.7 PPG) after averaging under five points in his freshman season. He showed off his range with the Seminoles, shooting at or above 41.5% from deep in each of his two seasons. Vassell also brings value on the defensive end, with averages of 1 block and 1.4 steals per game. The forward is the essential 3-and-D complement that Portland has lacked in recent years. He projects as an instant contributor with the potential to take over the wing from the Blazers’ older forwards. — Isaiah De Los Santos

15. ORLANDO MAGIC: Theo Maledon (6-4 Guard, ASVEL of the EuroLeague)

AGE: 18 years old

2019-20 STATS: 7.4 points, 3.1 assists, shooting 46% from the field and 37% from three

There are a lot of good guards on the the board that are excellent talents, but from the standpoint of trying to find a solid backcourt mate for Markelle Fultz, the Magic should consider Theo Maledon. Highlights are obviously skewed, but his decision making as a playmaker seems to be there, both in transition and half-court play. He plays with a patience that is rare to see in an 18-year-old in the EuroLeague. This past season for ASVEL Lyon-Villeurbanne, he shot 37% from beyond the arc. If he wants to maintain a spot in the NBA, he’ll need to maintain that shooting percentage as his three point attempts go up. — Arvind Pitchai

16. MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES (VIA BROOKLYN): Tyrese Maxey (6-3 Guard, Kentucky)

CLASS: Freshman (19 years old)

2019-20 STATS: 14.0 points, 4.3 rebounds, 3.2 assists, shooting 43% from the field

Earlier in this mock, the Wolves snagged James Wiseman with the No. 3 pick, pairing him with star Karl-Anthony Towns to give them a massively talented frontcourt for the foreseeable future. With the recently acquired D’Angelo Russell reliably running point, the Wolves still need a wing who can get buckets. Maxey is super shifty and already sports an impressive floater package. He has a strong handle and can effectively slash into the teeth of the defense. He’s also a fantastic on-ball defender. And while his three-point percentages are subpar, his feathery floater touch and excellent free throw percentage (83% on the season) suggest he will be just fine. His 6-3 frame may be on the small side for a SG, but his tremendous strength compensates for the slight height disadvantage. Maxey is young and has tons of room to grow. The Wolves should take a shot on a kid with huge upside who could transform into a perennial 20-point per game scorer. — Isaiah Freedman

17. BOSTON CELTICS (VIA MEMPHIS): Josh Green (6-6 Guard, Arizona)

CLASS: Freshman (19 years old)

2019-20 STATS: 12.0 points, 4.6 rebounds, 2.6 assists, 1.5 steals, shooting 42% from the field and 36% from three

The Celtics are locked in for the future. They have an All-NBA point guard in Kemba Walker, budding superstars in Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, a lockdown perimeter defender in Marcus Smart, and the perfect complementary pieces to round out the roster. This gives them the flexibility to take the best, most talented player available—Arizona freshman Josh Green. One of the top defenders in the draft, the shooting guard can cover 1-4 with his 6-6, 210-pound frame and 6-10 wingspan. Offensively, he is an elite athlete who can handle the ball and hit open shots, as he knocked down 39.5% of his three-point attempts in the second half of the season. He fits with what the Celtics continue to stockpile—competitive, versatile wings who can cover and play multiple positions. Green is just 19 years old, but can contribute right away as a role player for a Celtics team that has current championship aspirations. — Ben Simon

18. DALLAS MAVERICKS: Isaiah Stewart (6-9 Forward, Washington)

CLASS: Freshman (18 years old)

2019-20 STATS: 17.0 points, 8.8 rebounds, 2.1 blocks, shooting 57% from the field

Sitting right on the verge of serious contention, the Mavericks will be looking for a player who provides reliable depth and immediate contribution. Washington big man Isaiah Stewart fits that mold. As a freshman, Stewart was a model of consistency for the Huskies. A 250-pound forward with a 7-4 wingspan, Stewart combines impressive athleticism and mobility with a polished finishing ability, making him a perfect fit in a pick-and-roll with Luka Doncic. He shot 77% from the FT line and showed a solid midrange touch. Stewart’s biggest strength, however, is that few, if any players in the draft play with a higher motor. While his back-to-the-basket offensive game may not translate to the next level, his energy and physicality will certainly make him effective as a rim protector and a rebounder on both ends. With Dwight Powell recovering from a ruptured achilles, Stewart can provide immediate depth at the 4 or 5 for a Mavericks team looking to win now. — Sam Squadron

19. MILWAUKEE BUCKS (VIA INDIANA): Vernon Carey Jr. (6-10 Center, Duke)

CLASS: Freshman (19 years old)

2019-20 STATS: 17.8 points, 8.8 rebounds, 1.6 blocks, shooting 58% from the field

There’s a reason why Vernon Carey Jr. was voted ACC Freshman of the Year in his lone season at Duke. The 6-10 lefty has an efficient offensive game and can score in a multitude of ways. Vernon has a quick first step and is extremely tough to guard within five feet of the basket. He’ll be joining a team already poised to make a deep playoff run, so there will be little to no pressure for the rook to carry a large load. However, if there’s anything we learned from Vernon Carey Jr in college, it’s that he shows up when it matters most. — Theus McBee

20. BROOKLYN NETS (VIA PHILADELPHIA): Saddiq Bey (6-8 Forward, Villanova)

CLASS: Sophomore (21 years old)

2019-20 STATS: 16.1 points, 4.7 rebounds, shooting 48% from the field and 45% from three

Bey is an athletic forward standing at 6-8, 216 pounds that has levels to his game, but the biggest draw is that he’s a knockdown shooter. He shot 45% from beyond the arc in his sophomore year at Villanova, up from 37% in his first year. The Julius Erving award winner could be a perfect fit for the Nets, who are currently the fifth worst three-point shooting squad in the League based on percentage. Brooklyn will be getting back major offensive pieces next year in Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving, but with the contract of Joe Harris in question, Bey could be a strong addition should the Nets need to fill that role. — Camille Buxeda

21. DENVER NUGGETS (VIA HOUSTON): Jalen Smith (6-10 Forward, Maryland)

CLASS: Sophomore (20 years old)

2019-20 STATS: 15.5 points, 10.5 rebounds, 2.4 blocks, shooting 54% from the field and 37% from three

Jalen Smith is a rim-running, athletic big with great hands. He’s also a willing and gifted post player who can step out and shoot the three. The 6-10 power forward has a high motor—Smith can bring chasedown blocks, offensive rebounds, and defensive toughness to the Pepsi Center. For good measure, he’s got the lateral speed and shiftiness necessary to defend at the next level. The Baltimore native is fresh off a stellar sophomore season, in which he led Maryland to a 24-7 record and a Big Ten title. Stix was the best player on a Terps team on pace for a 3-seed and poised for a deep run in the NCAA Tournament, and Smith would pair well with Jamal Murray and Nikola Jokic in Mike Malone’s system. Paul Millsap, Mason Plumlee and Jerami Grant are all free agents this summer. Smith fits Denver’s position need, and he projects to be the kind of player most GMs are looking for in 2020: a stretch-four who defends. — Eli Schwadron

22. PHILADELPHIA 76ERS (VIA OKLAHOMA CITY): Aaron Nesmith (6-6 Forward, Vanderbilt)

CLASS: Sophomore (20 years old)

2019-20 STATS: 23.0 points, 4.9 rebounds, 1.4 steals, shooting 51% from the field and 52% from three

When JJ Redick fled from the City of Brotherly Love on the first day of free agency last summer, the Sixers’ long-range marksmanship took an immediate hit. Through 65 games, Philadelphia ranked 14th in three-point field goal accuracy (32.6%), down from eighth the season before. The solution? Enter Aaron Nesmith, the best pure shooter in this year’s draft. Vandy’s 6-6 sophomore slinger averaged 23 points and 4.9 rebounds over 14 games while shooting 52% from deep, before a season-ending stress fracture in his right foot. Nesmith was the fifth-leading scorer in the nation and was on pace to have one of the best three-point shooting seasons in college basketball history. Possessing a combination of size, strength, and deadeye shot-making ability, Nesmith’s game is tailor-made for the modern NBA and fills a much-needed void in Philly. — Peter Robert Casey

23. MIAMI HEAT: Killian Hayes (6-5 Guard, ratiopharm Ulm of Basketball Bundesliga)

AGE: 18 years old

2019-20 STATS: 12.8 points, 6.2 assists, 1.5 steals, shooting 46% from the field and 39% from three

Already an Eastern Conference playoff contender, Pat Riley will search for the final pieces of the puzzle starting in the 2020 Draft. As Goran Dragic enters unrestricted free agency, the Heat will likely target youth to take over the reigns. Although he’s only 18, Killian Hayes boasts the experience and toughness it takes to make an impact in the NBA immediately. Originally born in Lakeland, FL, before moving to France due to his father’s pro career, Hayes has used basketball to bridge the gap between both countries. After playing against older opponents his entire childhood in Europe, Hayes turned professional in France at the age of only 16. During his career with Cholet, Killian also represented the French National team. Now a 6-5 PG with a tight handle, sharp vision and the ability to finish at the rim, he holds all the intangibles NBA scouts seek. The Lakeland native took the opposite journey to the League, and the risk may be worth the reward. Once idolizing Dwyane Wade, Hayes now has the chance to honor Flash as he returns to his home state and aims to ignite South Beach once again. — Daren Scarberry

24. UTAH JAZZ: Aleksej Pokusevski (7-0 Forward, Olympiacos B of the Greek A2 Basket League)

AGE: 18 years old

2019-20 STATS: 10.8 points, 7.9 rebounds, 3.1 assists, 1.8 blocks, shooting 49% from the field and 32% from three

It’s time to meet your future favorite player, and he goes by the name of Poku. Joining the storied lineage of Serbians (Vlade, Peja, Nikola) in the NBA, Aleksej Pokusevski is the youngest prospect in this year’s draft, not turning 19 until the day after Christmas. And while his 7-0 frame has caused folks that have never heard of him or seen him play to make assumptions, don’t get it twisted—Poku is a point guard trapped in a center’s body. Just like KD (6-10), Giannis (6-11), Jokić (7-0), and Porzingis (7-3), he’s a vertically inclined man with playmaking ability and perimeter skills. Unfortunately, he’s barely seen any EuroLeague action for Olympiacos since joining the club at the age of 13, but he’s had the privilege of learning from legendary Greek teammates Vassilis Spanoulis and Georgios Printezis, along with former head coach David Blatt. While this season he was assigned to play with the development team, Olympiacos B, his time spent with the Serbian national squad has been fruitful and excited NBA scouts. Last July, he opened the FIBA U18 European Championship with 16 points, 13 rebounds, 7 blocks, 5 assists, and 3 steals in a win against Germany. If Poku somehow slips this far to Utah, a team who flew to Athens to see him play in November, they’re in for a treat. — Aron Phillips

25. OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER (VIA DENVER): Jahmi’us Ramsey (6-4 Guard, Texas Tech)

CLASS: Freshman (18 years old)

2019-20 STATS: 15.0 points, 4.0 rebounds, 1.3 steals, shooting 44% from the field and 43% from three

Jahmi’us Ramsey, the highest ranked recruit to ever attend Texas Tech, finished off the 2019-20 regular season as Big 12 Freshman of the Year. He’s an explosive combo guard with a great jump shot who can create space, elevate and finish with authority at the rim. Put simply, Ramsey gets buckets. Ramsey would slot right into an Oklahoma City Thunder backcourt that has thrived under the guidance of head coach Billy Donovan and veteran point god Chris Paul. Integrated into a system with a strong track record of player development, Ramsey could carve out a role as a long-term rotation piece in OKC. — Dave Schnur

26. BOSTON CELTICS: Zeke Nnaji (6-11 Forward, Arizona)

CLASS: Freshman (19 years old)

2019-20 STATS: 16.1 points, 8.6 rebounds, shooting 57% from the field

Two Celtics picks and two Arizona Wildcats. After choosing Josh Green at 17, the Celtics can afford to take a shot on a sleeper. That comes in the form of Zeke Nnaji. I say sleeper, but he was actually much more productive than Green in their one season of college. The Minnesota native averaged 16.1 points and 8.6 rebounds (including 3.1 offensive boards, giving him the highest total in the Pac 12), while shooting 57% from the field, second best in the conference. The Celtics’ roster is filled out, but they do have one glaring need: a big man who can run the floor and play above the rim. Nnaji can do just that… and then some. He’s an elite finisher who even showed an ability to knock down jump shots. The building blocks are there for him to be an efficient three-point shooter. Nnaji still has glaring struggles on the defensive end, but with Daniel Theis, Vincent Poirier, and Robert Williams under contract next season (Enes Kanter is under a player option), there’s time for him to develop. It’s a low risk, high reward pick that could hopefully fill one of the Celtics’ few holes. Oh, and if you’re short on a pregame National Anthem performer, Zeke Nnaji can do that too.  — Ben Simon

27. NEW YORK KNICKS (VIA CLIPPERS): Jordan Nwora (6-7 Forward, Louisville)

CLASS: Junior (21 years old)

2019-20 STATS: 18.0 points, 7.7 rebounds, shooting 44% from the field and 40% from three

During the past two seasons, Jordan Nwora established himself as the go-to guy for the Louisville Cardinals and deserves to be taken in the first round of the upcoming NBA draft. At 6-7, he’s extremely versatile and has a well-rounded offensive game. Nwora led the Cards in scoring for the second straight year, averaging 18 points on 44% shooting from the field and 40% from deep. He can spread the floor and create spacing for a Knicks team that ranked dead last in total threes in 2019-20. If the Knicks take Cole Anthony at the No. 6 spot to pair with RJ Barrett, they’re going to be searching for reliable prospects like Nwora—athletic forwards who can run in transition, knock down jumpers consistently and don’t clog the paint. — Alex Squadron

28. TORONTO RAPTORS: Yves Pons (6-6 Guard, Tennessee)

CLASS: Junior (21 years old)

2019-20 STATS: 10.8 points, 5.4 rebounds, 2.4 blocks, shooting 49% from the field and 35% from three

While the SEC’s DPOY doesn’t boast the numbers of other first round picks, he has elite athleticism that allows him to guard positions 1-4. Pons is another skilled defensive player, similar to OG Anunoby, who will help the Raptors in an Eastern Conference that is deep at the G/F position. At 6-6, Pons averaged 2.4 blocks per game last season. He will fit right in to Toronto’s talented bench squad. Although his defensive prowess is what will get him drafted, Pons shot 35% from the three-point line in his last season as a Volunteer. This makes him an intriguing possible deep threat, and given the Raptors’ track record of developing talent (Siakam, VanVleet, Powell), he will have a great opportunity to develop his offensive game further. — Greg Cohen

29. LOS ANGELES LAKERS: Tyrell Terry (6-1 Guard, Stanford)

CLASS: Freshman (19 years old)

2019-20 STATS: 14.6 points, 4.5 rebounds, 3.2 assists, 1.4 steals, shooting 44% from the field and 41% from three

LeBron loves a point guard that can shoot, and Terry does just that. He’s a score-first PG who also possesses impressive passing ability. Terry is a three-level scorer and a particularly elite three-point shooter. This past season, he shot 48% on catch and shoot threes and is also capable of knocking down jumpers off the dribble. He has a very good feel for the game, knowing when to pass and when to look for his own offense. Tyrell can operate out of the pick-and-roll and moves very well off the ball, similar to Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson. Overall, he’s a playmaker that will develop into a premier guard in the League. — Christian Quezada

30. BOSTON CELTICS (VIA MILWAUKEE): Tre Jones (6-3 Guard, Duke)

CLASS: Sophomore (20 years old)

2019-20 STATS: 16.2 points, 6.4 assists, 4.2 rebounds, 1.8 steals, shooting 42% from the field and 36% from three

The oldest position on the Celtics? Point guard. Although Kemba Walker is still earning All-Star appearances, he is less than a month away from being 30. Brad Wanamaker, despite just two years in the NBA, is already 30. Carsen Edwards provides some youth, but might be better served as an off-ball gunner. The Celtics are young and talented at pretty much every other position (center was solved with our last pick). Increased PG depth could provide a nice cushion. Tre Jones brings just that. But the 6-3, 185-pound guard is more than the prototypical backup point guard. Sure, he has a high floor. That happens when you receive ACC Player of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year honors. Not only can he contribute right away, but he has the chance to grow into a legitimate NBA starter. After shooting just 26% from three during his freshman season, he bumped his average up to 36% this year. He’s a mature, smart guard who can complement the Celtics’ stars by playing defense, facilitating, hitting open threes, and scoring when needed. With Jones and Marcus Smart, they could have one of the best defensive backcourts in the NBA. He’s already a great backup option right now, but as Walker climbs into his 30s, Jones has a chance to be the Celtics’ point guard of the future. — Ben Simon

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