Dave Roberts hopes the Los Angeles Dodgers have nowhere to go but up after another difficult outi...

Dave Roberts hopes the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/teams/26" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/teams/26">Los Angeles Dodgers</a> have nowhere to go but up after another difficult outing for their injury-plagued bullpen Tuesday."It better be rock bottom as far as how we've been pitching, how we've been playing defense," Roberts said after his team's 10-7 loss to the Minnesota Twins, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/45801999/dodgers-bullpen-woes-full-display">ESPN's Alden Gonzalez</a>.Los Angeles began to unravel in the sixth inning after <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/18594" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/18594">Ben Casparius</a> entered in relief for starter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17234" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17234">Yoshinobu Yamamoto</a>, who recorded eight strikeouts and allowed three runs (one earned) in five innings. With the game tied, Casparius faced four batters but failed to record an out; he allowed Minnesota to load the bases with a pair of walks on either side of a <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5766" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5766">Ty France</a> double, then gifted the Twins a go-ahead run by walking <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12346" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12346">Royce Lewis</a> on four pitches. The 26-year-old then exited with a calf cramp but was charged with another two earned runs in the inning after <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13669" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13669">Alexis Díaz</a> replaced him.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Dodgers surrendered another three runs in the seventh after <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17941" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17941">Edgardo Henriquez</a> misplayed Lewis' two-strike, check-swing dribbler down the line by firing his throw well wide of first base and into right field. Henriquez, 23, was making his major-league season debut as the Dodgers are missing several of their first-choice relief options, including <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3013" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3013">Blake Treinen</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8274" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8274">Michael Kopech</a>. They're also temporarily without $72-million closer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5525" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5525">Tanner Scott</a>, who exited Monday's win with an injury and was placed on the IL with elbow inflammation Tuesday.Los Angeles is <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3312371" href="https://thescore.com/news/3312371">reportedly</a> seeking bullpen help ahead of the July 31 trade deadline. However, Roberts stressed that he has to be able to count on the team's current pitching depth in the meantime."It's difficult," the Dodgers skipper said. "(These are) the guys we have right now, and they're getting opportunities to make an impression. So that's on them."When you have certain guys down, you're put in leverage, bases loaded, nobody out, whatever it might be - you've gotta come in there and do your job. Some guys are, some guys aren't."Despite losing 11 of their last 14, the Dodgers still hold a 3.5-game lead over the San Diego Padres in the NL West and sit just 1.5 games back of the Chicago Cubs and Milwaukee Brewers for the National League's best mark. However, since the start of their skid July 4, the bullpen has posted a collective 5.85 ERA - the fourth-worst mark in the majors in that span, per <a href="https://www.fangraphs.com/leaders/major-league?pos=all&amp;lg=all&amp;qual=y&amp;type=8&amp;season=2025&amp;month=1000&amp;season1=2025&amp;ind=0&amp;stats=rel&amp;team=0%2Cts&amp;startdate=2025-07-04&amp;enddate=2025-07-23&amp;sortcol=16&amp;sortdir=desc">FanGraphs</a>.

Los Angeles, CA - July 21: Los Angeles Dodgers head coach Dave Roberts walks off the field during the game as the Dodgers take on the Minnesota Twins at Dodger Stadium Monday, July 21, 2025 in Los Angeles, CA. (Luke Johnson / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)

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Roberts hopes this is 'rock bottom' for Dodgers' bullpen

Tyrese Haliburton doubts that there's a single, identifiable cause for the NBA's recent string of...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93893" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93893">Tyrese Haliburton</a> doubts that there's a single, identifiable cause for the NBA's recent string of torn Achilles tendons, including his own, which will sideline the Indiana Pacers star for the 2025-26 season."Everybody thinks we play too many games, play too many minutes - all those things could be true, but I don't think that that is what is causing these injuries," he said Tuesday on "<a href="https://youtu.be/xYNEKYUCrq8?t=476">The Pat McAfee Show</a>. "Last season, if I'm not mistaken, I don't think there was a single Achilles tear. And it was the same amount of minutes, same amount of games, right? Guys didn't suddenly get larger in the course of a year."So I don't think that anybody has necessarily the answer. I think injuries are just bad luck sometimes and that's just what happened, but I think that's just what happens in sports sometimes. I think there's no way to really control it."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Haliburton was one of three NBA stars to tear his Achilles this past postseason alone. Milwaukee Bucks guard Damian Lillard (now back with the Portland Trail Blazers) tore his in the first round against the Pacers before Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum suffered the same injury in the Eastern Conference semifinals against the New York Knicks.Haliburton's tear occurred minutes into Game 7 of the Finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder after the Pacers guard appeared to have shaken off a calf issue that had bothered him since Game 2. Following his surgery in late June, the 25-year-old said he had <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3303616" href="https://thescore.com/news/3303616">no regrets</a> about playing in the all-or-nothing contest despite the pre-existing calf issue.NBA commissioner Adam Silver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3304305" href="https://thescore.com/news/3304305">revealed</a> at the draft that the league had already partnered with experts to study the recent spike in Achilles tears before Haliburton's injury. Another four tears Achilles tears happened during the regular season. Fellow Indiana players <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93886" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93886">James Wiseman</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96062" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96062">Isaiah Jackson</a> suffered two of them; Wiseman's occurred after playing just four-and-a-half minutes in the Pacers' season opener.Like Haliburton, Silver pushed back on the length of the season as a factor, pointing instead to the extent to which young players push their bodies year-round.

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - JUNE 19: Tyrese Haliburton #0 of the Indiana Pacers looks on during the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder during Game Six of the 2025 NBA Finals on June 19, 2025 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Haliburton blames recent spike in Achilles tears on 'bad luck'

Marcus Smart has agreed to a buyout with the Washington Wizards and will join the Los Angeles Lak...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/24740" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/24740">Marcus Smart</a> has agreed to a buyout with the Washington Wizards and will join the Los Angeles Lakers once he clears waivers, sources told <a href="https://twitter.com/ShamsCharania/status/1946678940052975982">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.The 31-year-old guard will reportedly sign a two-year, $11-million contract with Los Angeles.The Lakers waived guard Jordan Goodwin in order to make room on the roster for Smart.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>After Washington permitted Smart's agent to speak to other teams, Doncic personally reached out to Smart, hoping to convince him to join him on the Lakers, sources told <a href="https://x.com/TheSteinLine/status/1946684099697004791">basketball insider Marc Stein.</a>The former Defensive Player of the Year began the 2024-25 campaign with the Memphis Grizzlies but was shipped to Washington at the deadline in an unexpected cost-cutting move. He averaged a combined nine points, 3.2 assists, 2.1 rebounds, and 1.1 steals with both teams, coupled with shooting splits of 39.3/34.8/76.1.Though multiple injuries limited him to just 19 games with Memphis, Smart's on-court defensive rating of 105.7 points allowed per 100 possessions was the team's best mark by any player with at least 200 minutes last season.Smart will likely bring a more defensive-minded presence to the Lakers' backcourt, balancing out the scoring provided by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96101" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96101">Austin Reaves</a> and five-time All-Star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a>. He also helps make up for the loss of forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11858" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11858">Dorian Finney-Smith</a>, who was arguably the team's best defender last season but joined the Houston Rockets in free agency.

WASHINGTON, DC - MARCH 24: Marcus Smart #36 of the Washington Wizards brings the ball up court Toronto Raptors during the second half at Capital One Arena on March 24, 2025 in Washington, DC.

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Report: Smart signing with Lakers after Wizards buyout

New York Liberty star Sabrina Ionescu won the Three-Point Contest for the second time in her care...

New York Liberty star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/55066" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/55066">Sabrina Ionescu</a> won the Three-Point Contest for the second time in her career Friday.Ionescu scored 30 points in the final round to hold off defending champ <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/32607" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/32607">Allisha Gray</a> of the Atlanta Dream, who could only register 22 points.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Sabrina Ionescu puts up a MONSTER 30 PTS to reclaim her STARRY 3-Point Contest title 🏆 <a href="https://t.co/qgRwN2OPTQ">pic.twitter.com/qgRwN2OPTQ</a>— WNBA (@WNBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/WNBA/status/1946375763722178686?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 19, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The Liberty guard joins Chicago Sky legend Allie Quigley as the only players to win multiple Three-Point Contests. Ionescu's win also secured an All-Star Friday sweep for New York after <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/18106" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/18106">Natasha Cloud</a> won the Skills Challenge earlier.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Washington Mystics rookie Sonia Citron, Los Angeles Sparks veteran Kelsey Plum, and Indiana Fever guard Lexie Hull also participated in Friday's main event. Hull was selected as a last-minute replacement for teammate Caitlin Clark after the Fever star had to bow out of the weekend's festivities with a groin injury.

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - JULY 18: Sabrina Ionescu #20 of the New York Liberty smiles during the WNBA Starry 3-Point Contest on July 18, 2025 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Ionescu wins Three-Point Contest to cap Liberty sweep 

New York Liberty guard Natasha Cloud defeated the Seattle Storm's Erica Wheeler in the final to w...

New York Liberty guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/18106" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/18106">Natasha Cloud</a> defeated the Seattle Storm's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/17531" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/17531">Erica Wheeler</a> in the final to win the 2025 WNBA Skills Challenge on Friday.Cloud edged Wheeler by 1.1 seconds in the final round to secure the victory. The Liberty wing completed the course in 36.4 seconds after Wheeler set the mark to beat at 37.5 seconds.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Natasha Cloud KIA Skills Challenge CHAMPION! 🙌 <a href="https://t.co/mHkERQ0mR5">pic.twitter.com/mHkERQ0mR5</a>— WNBA (@WNBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/WNBA/status/1946367663782969674?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 19, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Cloud earned a $55,000 prize with the win.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Wheeler's Storm teammate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/15247" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/15247">Skylar Diggins</a>, Minnesota Lynx guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/27221" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/27221">Courtney Williams</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/32607" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/32607">Allisha Gray</a> of the Atlanta Dream - last year's Skills Challenge winner - also competed. Gray, who won the Three-Point Contest last season, also defended her crown in the shooting competition Friday but fell to Liberty star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/55066" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/55066">Sabrina Ionescu</a> in the final.

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - JULY 18: Natasha Cloud #9 of the New York Liberty celebrates after winning the Kia WNBA Skills Challenge on July 18, 2025 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Cloud narrowly beats Wheeler to win Skills Challenge

Jason Crowe Jr., the No. 4 overall prospect in the 2026 class, is committing to Missouri, he anno...

Jason Crowe Jr., the No. 4 overall prospect in the 2026 class, is committing to Missouri, he announced Friday on <a href="https://x.com/247Sports/status/1946324035001831489">CBS Sports HQ</a>.Crow, the top-rated point guard on the <a href="https://www.espn.com/college-sports/basketball/recruiting/rankings/scnext300boys/_/view/espnu100">2026 ESPN 100</a>, is the first five-star recruit of the class to commit to any school. He's also the second-highest ranked commit in the program's history, behind <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60530" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60530">Michael Porter Jr.</a>The 6-foot-3 California native chose the Tigers over Kentucky, Texas, Arkansas, Arizona, and Alabama, among others.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"Just the coaching staff with coach (Dennis) Gates and all of the other coaches believing in me," Crowe said about choosing Missouri, according to <a href="https://247sports.com/college/basketball/recruiting/article/missouri-basketball-lands-commitment-of-five-star-guard-jason-crowe-jr--251846416/">247Sports' Travis Branham</a>. "Even though they came in late into the recruiting process, they gave me the keys and told me I have to work hard, and the team will revolve around me."Crowe finished the Nike Elite Youth Basketball League as the competition's top scorer, dropping 26.5 points per game in four contests for the Oakland Soldiers.

KNOXVILLE, TENNESSEE - FEBRUARY 05: A detailed photo of the Missouri Tigers logo during the second half at Thompson-Boling Arena on February 05, 2025 in Knoxville, Tennessee.

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Missouri secures commitment from 5-star point guard Crowe

Saturday's All-Star Game will feature a much faster pace than WNBA fans are accustomed to.  The l...

Saturday's All-Star Game will feature a much faster pace than WNBA fans are accustomed to.The league announced several changes to the 2025 All-Star Game on Wednesday, including the use of live substitutions and the reintroduction of circular 4-point shot zones for each team. Live replacements will only be permitted when a team has possession in their backcourt, and a squad can substitute only one player per possession.The WNBA is also drastically cutting free throws to speed up the game's pace. Players will only be required to shoot from the line in the final two minutes and any overtime periods. All other fouls that result in free throws will instead be converted into points. Additionally, the shot clock will be reduced from 24 to 20 seconds, although offensive rebounds will still reset the clock to 14 seconds.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The league previously used the 4-point zones, quicker shot clock, and automatic free-throw points in the 2022 and 2023 All-Star Games. However, it opted to return to a more traditional format last season when Team WNBA faced Team USA.This year's All-Star Game will feature opposing squads captained by Indiana Fever star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/121626" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/121626">Caitlin Clark</a> and reigning MVP <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/48780" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/48780">Napheesa Collier</a> of the Minnesota Lynx. The two drafted their respective rosters as captains after finishing in the top two of fan voting.The game tips off at 8:30 p.m. ET in Indianapolis.

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WNBA All-Star Game to use live subs, bring back 4-point shots

Three-time All-Star guard Bradley Beal agreed to a contract buyout with the Phoenix Suns and plan...

Three-time All-Star guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11887" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11887">Bradley Beal</a> agreed to a contract buyout with the Phoenix Suns and plans to sign a two-year, $11-million deal with the Los Angeles Clippers once he clears waivers, sources told <a href="https://twitter.com/ShamsCharania/status/1945536796382654553">Shams Charania of ESPN</a>.The pact will include a player option in the second year, Charania adds.<a href="https://thescore.com/news/3307783">Reports</a> surfaced earlier in July that Phoenix was considering buying out Beal from the remainder of his contract. The 32-year-old was owed $110 million through the 2026-27 season but agreed to give back $13.8 million as part of the buyout deal, sources told <a href="https://twitter.com/FredKatz/status/1945539510554558534">The Athletic's Fred Katz</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Once placed on waivers, Beal can formally join the Clippers after 48 hours. The 13-year vet will form part of another Big Three in L.A. with Kawhi Leonard and James Harden. Phoenix acquired Beal in a trade from the Washington Wizards in 2023, but the trio of Beal, Devin Booker, and Kevin Durant failed to gain momentum amid several injuries, leading the Suns to trade Durant to the Houston Rockets earlier this summer.Beal will likely step into the starting two-guard role vacated by the Clippers' trade of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/12144" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/12144">Norman Powell</a> to the Miami Heat. L.A. still has enough financial room to add another veteran minimum contract to its payroll, according to insider <a href="https://twitter.com/TheSteinLine/status/1945544457576702012">Marc Stein</a>.

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 31: Bradley Beal #3 of the Phoenix Suns looks on against the Golden State Warriors during the first half of an NBA basketball game at Chase Center on January 31, 2025 in San Francisco, California.

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Report: Beal signing with Clippers after agreeing to Suns buyout

Welcome to our monthly look at the various individual awards in the WNBA and who merits a mention...

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WNBA Awards Watch: A'ja, Thomas combat Collier for top honors

Victor Wembanyama has been medically cleared after recovering from the deep vein thrombosis in hi...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110276" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110276">Victor Wembanyama</a> has been medically cleared after recovering from the deep vein thrombosis in his right shoulder that kept him out for all 36 games following last season's All-Star break."It just happened," Wembanyama told French outlet L'Equipe, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/45740391/spurs-victor-wembanyama-cleared-return-blood-clot">ESPN's Michael C. Wright</a>. "I got the green light from the Spurs' medical staff just (on Friday). Phew, I'll finally be able to play a bit of basketball again."The Spurs shut down the French 7-footer in February after he reportedly complained of low energy through the All-Star break. The 21-year-old had just competed in his first All-Star Game as a reserve but underwent testing upon his return to San Antonio that revealed deep vein thrombosis - a blood clot - in his shoulder.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Wembanyama, the 2024 Rookie of the Year, averaged 24.3 points, 11 rebounds, 3.8 blocks, and 3.7 assists in 46 games last season. The former No. 1 overall pick had been predominantly healthy before the condition surfaced, missing just three games in November due to a bruised knee and two contests in early December because of back soreness. Wembanyama also missed a narrow Feb. 1 loss to the Heat with an undisclosed illness.San Antonio has bolstered its roster around its franchise star ahead of the 2025-26 campaign, selecting former Rutgers star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/171821" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/171821">Dylan Harper</a> and Arizona product <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/171819" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/171819">Carter Bryant</a> with the No. 2 and No. 14 overall picks in this year's draft. To add positional cover for Wembanyama, the club also signed <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30792" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30792">Luke Kornet</a> away from the Boston Celtics in free agency and acquired <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2041" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2041">Kelly Olynyk</a> in a trade with the Washington Wizards.

SAN ANTONIO, TX - NOVEMBER 11: Victor Wembanyama #1 of the San Antonio Spurs celebrates during the game against the Sacramento Kings on November 11, 2024 at the Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, Texas. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photos by Garrett Ellwood/NBAE via Getty Images)

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Wembanyama says he's cleared to return from deep vein thrombosis

The Cleveland Cavaliers are signing team president Koby Altman to a contract extension that will ...

The Cleveland Cavaliers are signing team president Koby Altman to a contract extension that will keep him with the franchise through the 2029-30 season, sources told <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/45739236/sources-cavaliers-extend-president-koby-altman-29-30">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.Altman joined the organization in 2012 and took over as general manager in July 2017. His last extension, which produced his promotion to president of basketball operations, was reportedly set to expire after the 2027-28 campaign.Mike Gansey, who succeeded Altman as GM in 2022, and assistant GM Brandon Weems also received multi-year extensions, sources told Charania.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Altman oversaw the Cavaliers' rebuild after <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a> left to join the Los Angeles Lakers in 2018 and has transformed them into an Eastern Conference contender again. He drafted <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60062" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60062">Collin Sexton</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/70243" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/70243">Darius Garland</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96054" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96054">Evan Mobley</a> with consecutive top-five picks between 2019 and 2021, subsequently sending Sexton to the Utah Jazz in 2022 as part of a package to acquire All-Star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44998" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/44998">Donovan Mitchell</a>.Since adding Mitchell, Cleveland has won at least 48 games in three regular seasons, culminating with this year's 64-victory campaign - the franchise's second-best record ever. Altman was also responsible for hiring Kenny Atkinson in June 2024, who went on to win Coach of the Year in his debut campaign with the team.Altman's other significant moves include acquiring All-Star center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53393" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53393">Jarrett Allen</a> in a four-team trade in January 2021 and a three-team deal later that summer to acquire <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53404" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53404">Lauri Markkanen</a> for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11516" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11516">Larry Nance Jr</a>. Markkanen was then involved in the Mitchell trade, while Nance returned to the Cavs as a free agent earlier this month on a one-year contract.

CLEVELAND, OHIO - OCTOBER 02: General manager Koby Altman of the Cleveland Cavaliers is interviewed during media day at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse on October 02, 2023 in Cleveland, Ohio.

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Report: Cavs extend president Altman through 2029-30

Forward Brandon Ingram has been medically cleared from the ankle sprain that prevented the former...

Forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44931" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/44931">Brandon Ingram</a> has been medically cleared from the ankle sprain that prevented the former All-Star from making his Toronto Raptors debut in the second half of last season."He's pain-free, he's moving well, he got stronger," Raptors head coach Darko Rajakovic said Thursday, according to <a href="https://x.com/JLew1050/status/1943394182543946016">Josh Lewenberg of TSN</a>. "He's in a really, really great spot."Toronto acquired Ingram from the New Orleans Pelicans at the February trade deadline in exchange for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/52805" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/52805">Bruce Brown</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2041" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2041">Kelly Olynyk</a>, the Indiana Pacers' 2026 first-rounder, and the Raptors' own second-round pick in 2031. Days later, the team signed the former second overall pick to a three-year extension worth $120 million, averting his impending free agency and establishing him as a long-term complement to franchise star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96044" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96044">Scottie Barnes</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Ingram sprained his left ankle in a Dec. 7 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder and had already missed two months when he was dealt to Toronto. While there seemed to be a slim chance he would debut for the Raptors late in the regular season, the team officially shut him down in the final week after he received a platelet-rich plasma injection."He's been putting in a lot, a lot of work since the end of the season," Rajakovic told <a href="https://www.tsn.ca/nba/video/rajakovic-summer-league-is-very-important-checkpoint-for-our-you~3166802">Lewenberg</a> on Thursday. "Conditioning, rehab, and everything, he's in a really good spot. Really excited to see what this next stage brings to him."Ingram averaged 22.2 points, second-best on the Pelicans, in 18 games last season. He added 5.6 rebounds and 5.2 assists per contest while posting shooting splits of 46.5/37.4/85.5.

TORONTO, CANADA - MARCH 8: Brandon Ingram #3 of the Toronto Raptors smiles before the game against the Washington Wizards on March 8, 2025 at the Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Rajakovic: Ingram cleared for contact, ankle 'pain-free'

Former Phoenix Suns general manager James Jones is joining the NBA as executive vice president an...

Former Phoenix Suns general manager James Jones is joining the NBA as executive vice president and head of basketball operations, the league announced Wednesday.He replaces Joe Dumars, who joined the New Orleans Pelicans in April to become their executive vice president of basketball operations.The 44-year-old will hold several responsibilities with the league office, "including the development of playing rules and interpretations, conduct and discipline, and policies and procedures relating to the operation of games," the NBA said in a statement. He will also be tasked with discussions surrounding the state of the game with players, coaches, referees, and executives.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Jones first joined the Suns as director of player personnel in July 2017 before being promoted to full-time general manager in 2019. He remained in the role until May 2025, when the franchise promoted Brian Gregory to GM and shifted Jones to a senior adviser position.Jones made several moves that transformed Phoenix into a contender in the West in recent years. Ahead of the 2020-21 campaign, he acquired star guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/314" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/314">Chris Paul</a> in a five-player trade with the Oklahoma City Thunder. The Suns eclipsed 50 wins that season for the first time in 11 years and made their first Finals appearance since 1993. He was named Executive of the Year as a result of the team's success.The Suns set a franchise record with 64 wins in the following campaign, but their playoff run ended in the second round when they were eliminated in seven games by the Dallas Mavericks.Jones was also behind the four-team deal in February 2023 that brought <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/345" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/345">Kevin Durant</a> to Phoenix from the Brooklyn Nets. However, the Suns never won more than 49 contests and advanced past the first round just once in two-and-a-half seasons with Durant on the roster.

PHOENIX, AZ - FEBRUARY 16: General Manager James Jones of the Phoenix Suns looks on during a press conference introducing Kevin Durant to the Phoenix Suns on February 16, 2022 at Footprint Center in Phoenix, Arizona. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2022 NBAE

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Ex-Suns GM Jones takes over as NBA head of basketball operations

Deandre Ayton was formally unveiled as Luka Doncic's new teammate on the Los Angeles Lakers on Tu...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60079" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60079">Deandre Ayton</a> was formally unveiled as <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a>'s new teammate on the Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday, and he shared his appreciation for the moment."This feels like a video game. Like somebody set it up," Ayton said at his official introduction, according to <a href="https://www.nba.com/lakers/news/ayton-and-laravia-introduced-070825">NBA.com's Mike Trudell</a>. "But honestly, this is an opportunity that I won't take for granted. Luka is a once-in-a-generation player, and I'm happy to be his teammate. Hearing about the kind of shape he's been in, he's super ripped, and I'm finally glad to be on his side when he's doing all of that."And I'm just truly excited. I'm a student of the game, and I love to play with a passion. And the love I have received, and I've not even thrown on a jersey, I can only show you guys my appreciation."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Though they were never teammates, Ayton and Doncic have been mentioned in the same conversation since the 2018 NBA Draft. The Phoenix Suns selected Bahamian center first overall that year, while Doncic went third to the Atlanta Hawks, who immediately flipped him to the Dallas Mavericks for No. 5 selection <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60633" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60633">Trae Young</a>.However, their careers have diverged since, and Doncic has accumulated greater individual success in seven seasons. After winning Rookie of the Year in 2019 (Ayton finished third behind Young), Doncic added five NBA first-team selections and five All-Star nods. He also won the scoring title in 2023-24 before winning conference finals MVP and leading the Mavs to the championship series. Though Ayton made the Finals first - doing so with Phoenix in 2021 - the 7-footer has yet to be named an All-Star, let alone earn an All-NBA selection. He also butted heads with former Suns coach Monty Williams and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3307333" href="https://thescore.com/news/3307333">reportedly</a> frustrated members of the Portland Trail Blazers with his work ethic and locker room behavior.However, Ayton, who signed a two-year deal in L.A., says he intends to use his critics as motivation to help the Lakers capture an 18th NBA title."It fuels me," he said. "It fuels me up completely. And it's a different type of drive that I've been wanting to express for a long time."I think this is the perfect timing, here in the Purple and Gold. And it's a platform that I cannot run from. I can show what I really am and just be around some greats to really emphasize that for me as well. It is a lot of fuel in me to prove to the whole world."The 26-year-old center owns career averages of 16.4 points, 10.5 rebounds, and one block.

El Segundo, CA - July 08: Los Angeles Lakers announce newly signed free agent Deandre Ayton during a press conference at the UCLA Health Training Center in El Segundo on Tuesday, July 8, 2025.

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Ayton: 'Feels like a video game' to join Luka on Lakers

The Oklahoma City Thunder and Chet Holmgren have agreed to a five-year rookie maximum contract wo...

The Oklahoma City Thunder and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102801" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102801">Chet Holmgren</a> have agreed to a five-year rookie maximum contract worth $239 million, his agent Bill Duffy told <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/45700873/chet-holmgren-agrees-rookie-max-extension-thunder">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.The fully guaranteed pact could reach $250 million, Charania adds.The 23-year-old averaged 15 points and eight rebounds per game while starting 32 contests in 2024-25. He missed three months after sustaining a pelvic fracture in November.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Holmgren was a pivotal component of Oklahoma City's championship run. The 7-foot-1 center put up 15.2 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks per game while starting all 23 postseason contests. Though his averages dipped against the Indiana Pacers in the Finals, his 100.9 defensive rating was the <a href="https://www.nba.com/stats/players/advanced?CF=MIN*GE*15&amp;PORound=4&amp;PerMode=Totals&amp;dir=A&amp;sort=DEF_RATING">highest</a> among players who averaged at least 15 minutes in the series.The Thunder selected Holmgren with the second overall pick in 2022, but he missed what would've been his rookie campaign due to a Lisfranc injury in his right foot, which he suffered during an offseason pro-am competition. However, he returned to start all 82 regular-season games in 2023-24 and finished second in Rookie of the Year voting behind unanimous winner <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110276" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110276">Victor Wembanyama</a>.The Thunder have had an active offseason following their championship campaign. After extending big man <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102798" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102798">Jaylin Williams</a> and re-signing guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121739" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121739">Ajay Mitchell</a> with three-year deals, they reportedly <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3306575" href="https://thescore.com/news/3306575">locked</a> up league and Finals MVP <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60411" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60411">Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</a> to a four-year, $285-million supermax extension, keeping the franchise star in Oklahoma City through 2030-31.Charania says the team's attention will now turn toward extending <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102799" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102799">Jalen Williams</a>.

MEMPHIS, TN - APRIL 24: Chet Holmgren #7 of the Oklahoma City Thunder celebrates during the game against the Memphis Grizzlies during Round One Game Three of the 2025 NBA Playoffs on April 24, 2025 at FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Thunder, Holmgren agree to 5-year, $239M rookie max

Dallas Mavericks star Anthony Davis underwent a procedure to fix a detached retina, sources told ...

Dallas Mavericks star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11373" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11373">Anthony Davis</a> underwent a procedure to fix a detached retina, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1942635398829682772">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.The 32-year-old will reportedly be at full health by the start of training camp in the fall.Davis dealt with an eye issue early last season while still with the Los Angeles Lakers. During a Nov. 10 game against the Toronto Raptors, Davis was inadvertently poked in his left eye by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37800" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37800">Jakob Poeltl</a> as he blocked a dunk attempt by the Raptors center. Davis left the contest in the third quarter but started the Lakers' next game three days later against the Memphis Grizzlies.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>He previously suffered a corneal abrasion March 16, 2024, when Golden State Warriors forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110259" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110259">Trayce Jackson-Davis</a> inadvertently hit Davis while the veteran made a layup. A month later, he suffered another inadvertent poke to his left eye against the Minnesota Timberwolves. That incident sidelined him for one game.The 10-time All-Star made just nine appearances for the Mavericks after being acquired in the midseason trade that sent <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a> to Los Angeles. During his team debut Feb. 8, Davis reaggravated an adductor injury he'd initially sustained with the Lakers, causing him to miss 18 consecutive games over the next month-and-a-half. He was still productive for Dallas when healthy, averaging 20 points, 10.1 rebounds, 4.4 assists, and 2.2 blocks.

ORLANDO, FL - MARCH 27: Anthony Davis #3 of the Dallas Mavericks looks on during the game against the Orlando Magic on March 27, 2025 at Kia Center in Orlando, Florida. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Report: Davis underwent procedure to repair retina

The Phoenix Suns are considering buying out guard Bradley Beal from the remainder of his contract...

The Phoenix Suns are considering buying out guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11887" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11887">Bradley Beal</a> from the remainder of his contract, sources told <a href="https://www.azcentral.com/story/sports/nba/suns/2025/07/03/phoenix-suns-discussing-possible-bradley-beal-buyout/84464670007/">Duane Rankin of the Arizona Republic</a>.Beal is owed over $110 million over the next two seasons. He's set to earn $53.7 million in 2025-26 and has a player option worth $57.1 million for 2026-27. He originally signed the contract - a five-year, $251-million max deal - with the Washington Wizards in July 2022.The Suns paid a significant price to acquire Beal, sending <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/314" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/314">Chris Paul</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45437" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/45437">Landry Shamet</a>, the rights to swap four first-round picks, and six second-round picks to Washington in June 2023. It was one of the team's first moves after the NBA approved Mat Ishbia's $4-billion purchase of the franchise in February 2023.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Beal was brought in to form a Big 3 in the desert alongside <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37815" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37815">Devin Booker</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/345" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/345">Kevin Durant</a> but struggled to acclimate to the new setting.Injuries immediately derailed the start of his stint in Phoenix; he missed the first seven games of 2023-24 with a low back strain, returned for three games, then missed the next 12 with the same issue. In his third game back, he sprained his right ankle, causing him to miss the next five games. He then missed another five straight in February with a hamstring ailment.He didn't fare much better in his second season. He sat out for several multi-game stretches throughout 2024-25 with calf, knee, ankle, toe, and hamstring injuries, limiting him to 53 games for a second straight year. The Suns went 36-46 and missed the playoffs despite boasting one of the most expensive rosters in the NBA.Beal is one of just two players in the league to have a no-trade clause in his contract, the other being Los Angeles Lakers superstar <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a>. Beal reportedly refused to waive the clause ahead of the February deadline as the team tried to acquire veteran wing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2809" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2809">Jimmy Butler</a> from the Miami Heat. Butler was eventually traded to the Golden State Warriors.Phoenix is now attempting to retool its roster around Booker. On June 22, the Suns reportedly agreed to trade Durant to the Houston Rockets for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96116" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96116">Jalen Green</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/39256" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/39256">Dillon Brooks</a>, the 10th pick in this year's draft (<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/171830" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/171830">Khaman Maluach</a>), and five second-round picks.

PHOENIX, AZ - APRIL 11: Bradley Beal #3 of the Phoenix Suns during the game against the San Antonio Spurs on April 11, 2025 at Footprint Center in Phoenix, Arizona. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Report: Suns discussing potential Beal buyout

The Los Angeles Lakers are signing free-agent center Deandre Ayton, sources told ESPN's Shams Cha...

The Los Angeles Lakers are signing free-agent center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60079" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60079">Deandre Ayton</a>, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1940524848100659676">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.The deal is reportedly for two years with a player option in 2026-27.Ayton, 26, became a free agent after negotiating a contract buyout Sunday with the Portland Trail Blazers. He cleared waivers Wednesday at 5 p.m. ET.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 7-footer and former No. 1 pick averaged a double-double of 14.2 points and 10.2 rebounds for the Trail Blazers last season. However, he appeared in just 40 games and didn't play at all following the All-Star break due to a calf issue.Portland reportedly grew frustrated with the center behind the scenes. The seven-year vet was late to flights and practices and skipped rehab sessions, sources told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6463929/2025/06/30/deandre-ayton-portlant-trail-blazers-free-agency/">Jonathan Quick of The Athletic</a>. He also reportedly acted out in locker rooms when disciplined for a lack of in-game effort.Despite his supposed behavioral issues, Ayton is lined up to become the Lakers' starting center, a position the front office prioritized upgrading at the onset of the offseason.

LOS ANGELES, CA - DECEMBER 8: Deandre Ayton #2 of the Portland Trail Blazers looks on during the game against the Los Angeles Lakers on December 8, 2024 at Crypto.Com Arena in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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Report: Lakers signing Ayton to 2-year deal

The New York Knicks intend to name Mike Brown their new head coach, sources told Shams Charania o...

The New York Knicks intend to name Mike Brown their new head coach, sources told <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/45646243/sources-knicks-expected-hire-mike-brown-next-head-coach">Shams Charania of ESPN</a>.Brown, a two-time Coach of the Year, was last in charge of the Sacramento Kings. He was dismissed 31 games into the 2024-25 season, his third with the team. In his first campaign with the Kings, he led the franchise to its first playoff berth since 2006, snapping an NBA-record 16-year postseason drought after posting a 48-34 regular-season record.The 55-year-old has also served as head coach of the Cleveland Cavaliers and Los Angeles Lakers. He took the 2006-07 Cavaliers to the NBA Finals after a second consecutive 50-win season.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Brown won four titles as an assistant. He was on Gregg Popovich's coaching staff for the San Antonio Spurs' 2000 championship and won three as Steve Kerr's top assistant on the Golden State Warriors in 2017, 2018, and 2022.In 11 seasons leading the bench, Brown boasts a career 454-304 regular-season record and a 50-40 mark in the playoffs.Brown will succeed Tom Thibodeau, whom the Knicks fired after the team's Eastern Conference finals defeat to the Indiana Pacers. It was the first time New York had reached the conference finals since 2000.The Knicks reportedly landed on Brown after a lengthy search in which several teams denied their interview requests. New York was apparently <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3299126" href="https://thescore.com/news/3299126">rebuffed</a> in its approaches for several employed head coaches, including Ime Udoka (Houston Rockets), Billy Donovan (Chicago Bulls), Chris Finch (Minnesota Timberwolves), Quin Snyder (Atlanta Hawks) and former Knicks guard Jason Kidd (Dallas Mavericks). The Knicks <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3299286" href="https://thescore.com/news/3299286">reportedly</a> turned their attention to Brown and former Memphis Grizzlies coach Taylor Jenkins after those rejections.

SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 24: Head coach Mike Brown of the Sacramento Kings looks on against the Brooklyn Nets during the first half of an NBA basketball game at Golden 1 Center on November 24, 2024 in Sacramento, California.

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Report: Knicks hiring Mike Brown as head coach

The Milwaukee Bucks agreed to a four-year, $107-million contract with free-agent center Myles Tur...

The Milwaukee Bucks agreed to a four-year, $107-million contract with free-agent center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///fiba/players/37711" href="https://thescore.com/fiba/players/37711">Myles Turner</a>, sources told <a href="https://twitter.com/ShamsCharania/status/1940064851025703154">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.The deal reportedly contains a player option for 2028-29 and a 15% trade kicker. It brings an end to Turner's decade-long stint with the Indiana Pacers, who drafted him 11th overall in 2015.To create the financial flexibility to sign the two-time blocks leader, Milwaukee is <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3306614" href="https://thescore.com/news/3306614">reportedly</a> waiving <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/5343" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/5343">Damian Lillard</a> and stretching the $113 million remaining on his deal. Lillard is expected to miss most, if not all, of the 2025-26 campaign while recovering from the Achilles tear he sustained in the Bucks' first-round series loss to the Pacers.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Turner will almost certainly replace <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/300" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/300">Brook Lopez</a> as Milwaukee's starting center next season. Lopez, 37, is reportedly leaving the Bucks after seven seasons to sign a two-year, $18-million contract with the Los Angeles Clippers.Indiana and Turner shared mutual interest in a new deal, but the team's offers were well below Milwaukee's, sources told <a href="https://twitter.com/ramonashelburne/status/1940072892324356488">ESPN's Ramona Shelburne</a>. The Pacers were reportedly unwilling to go too deep into the luxury tax to re-sign the Texas product.The 29-year-old Turner averaged 15.6 points, 6.5 rebounds, and two blocks in 72 games last season while shooting a career-best 39.6% from distance. He was crucial in the team's run to the Finals, registering 13.8 points, 4.8 rebounds, and two blocks while starting all 23 postseason games for the Pacers.

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - APRIL 25: Myles Turner #33 of the Indiana Pacers during game three of the first round of the 2025 NBA playoffs against the Milwaukee Bucks at Fiserv Forum on April 25, 2025 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

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Report: Bucks pry Turner from Pacers with 4-year, $107M deal

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