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

The Oklahoma City Thunder are signing Shai Gilgeous-Alexander to a four-year, $285-million superm...

The Oklahoma City Thunder are signing <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, sources told <a href="https://twitter.com/ShamsCharania/status/1940048256999870518">Shams Charania of ESPN</a>.At just under $71.3 million per season, it will be the largest annual salary in NBA history, overtaking <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/148" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/148">Stephen Curry</a>'s $59.6 million as the highest single-season earnings by a player in 2025-26.The new deal ties Gilgeous-Alexander, 26, to Oklahoma City through his age-32 season in 2030-31, which would be his 13th campaign with the Thunder.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Canadian guard led the NBA in scoring with a career-high 32.7 points per game during the regular season and was named MVP for the first time as the Thunder won a franchise-record 68 games. He then averaged 29.9 points in 23 postseason games, including 31.4 points against the Indiana Pacers in the Finals, helping the Thunder capture their first NBA championship in Oklahoma City. Gilgeous-Alexander was also named Finals MVP.He's just the fourth player in NBA history to capture the scoring title, regular-season MVP, and Finals MVP in the same season, joining Hall of Famers Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Michael Jordan, and Shaquille O'Neal. Jordan is the only player to do it more than once, pulling off the feat four times in the 1990s.The Thunder have now reached new deals with three members of their championship roster. On Sunday, the franchise reportedly agreed to a three-year, $24-million extension with center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102798" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102798">Jaylin Williams</a> and a new three-year, $9 million pact with guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121739" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121739">Ajay Mitchell</a>.

OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA - FEBRUARY 5: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander #2 of the Oklahoma City Thunder celebrates after scoring during the second half against the Phoenix Suns at Paycom Center on February 5, 2025 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

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Report: Thunder signing Gilgeous-Alexander to record 4-year, $285M extension

JJ Barea is returning to the NBA.  The former Dallas Mavericks and Minnesota Timberwolves guard i...

JJ Barea is returning to the NBA.The former Dallas Mavericks and Minnesota Timberwolves guard is joining the Denver Nuggets as the top assistant on David Adelman's coaching staff, sources told <a href="https://twitter.com/ShamsCharania/status/1940035580865176046">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.Barea last played in the league during the 2018-19 season: a 29-game stint with the Mavericks. After announcing his retirement as a player in July 2022, he returned to his native Puerto Rico, where he took up roles as a general manager and a head coach in the Baloncesto Superior Nacional, the top-level league on the island.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Though Barea didn't play for Denver throughout his 14-year NBA career, he crossed paths with Adelman in Minnesota. The coach was an assistant on the Timberwolves under his father, Rick Adelman, during Barea's three-year stint with the franchise, notes <a href="https://twitter.com/espn_macmahon/status/1940036287743852969">ESPN's Tim MacMahon</a>. Those were the only seasons of the 5-foot-10 guard's career that he did not spend with the Mavericks.David Adelman, 44, is entering his first full season in charge of the Nuggets. He'd been an assistant under former head coach Michael Malone since joining the organization ahead of the 2017-18 season but was named his interim replacement when the team fired Malone with three games remaining in the regular season. Denver then promoted Adelman to permanent head coach four days after its season ended with its Game 7 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference semifinals.

Basketball: Dallas Mavericks J.J. Barea (5) in action vs Memphis Grizzlies at American Airlines Center. Dallas, TX 3/6/2020 CREDIT: Greg Nelson (Set Number: X163208 TK1 )

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Report: Nuggets hire former guard Barea as assistant

The Atlanta Hawks will sign free-agent wing Nickeil Alexander-Walker to a four-year contract wort...

The Atlanta Hawks will sign free-agent wing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60881" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60881">Nickeil Alexander-Walker</a> to a four-year contract worth $62 million that includes a player option and a trade kicker, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1939838544794779934">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.Atlanta is sending a 2027 second-rounder via the Cleveland Cavaliers and cash to Minnesota as part of a sign-and-trade deal to acquire Alexander-Walker, adds <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1939840810356281642">Charania</a>.Alexander-Walker, 26, is coming off his sixth NBA campaign. He spent the last two-and-a-half seasons with the Minnesota Timberwolves, developing into a pivotal rotation piece thanks to his defensive skill set and his ability to stretch the floor.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Toronto native averaged 9.4 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 2.7 assists for the T-Wolves in 2024-25. Chris Finch's side posted a 6.6 net rating with Alexander-Walker on the floor last season, the team's third-best mark involving any player with at least 50 minutes.He's also maintained a clean bill of health since joining Minnesota midway through 2022-23 in a trade from the Utah Jazz; for a second straight year, he played in all 82 regular-season games for Minnesota and has appeared in all 31 of the team's playoff contests in that span.

SAN FRANCISCO, CA - MAY 12: Nickeil Alexander-Walker #9 of the Minnesota Timberwolves looks on during the game against the Golden State Warriors during Round 2 Game 4 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs on May 12, 2025 at Chase Center in San Francisco, 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 Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Report: Hawks agree to 4-year, $62M deal with Alexander-Walker

The Memphis Grizzlies will sign free-agent guard Ty Jerome to a three-year, $28-million contract,...

The Memphis Grizzlies will sign free-agent guard Ty Jerome to a three-year, $28-million contract, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1939823309665050713">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.Jerome, 27, is coming off a career-best year with the Cleveland Cavaliers. He averaged 12.5 points and 3.4 assists while shooting 43.9% from beyond the arc - tying him with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/24646" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/24646">Taurean Prince</a> for the NBA's third-best 3-point percentage among qualified shooters.He was instrumental in a reserve role for Kenny Atkinson's squad, helping the Cavaliers top the Eastern Conference with a 64-18 record before finishing third in Sixth Man of the Year voting behind Malik Beasley and award-winner Payton Pritchard.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Cleveland appeared to signal a readiness to part with Jerome Saturday when it <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3305259" href="https://thescore.com/news/3305259">reportedly</a> traded <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93865" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93865">Isaac Okoro</a> to the Chicago Bulls in exchange for veteran ball-handler <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53246" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53246">Lonzo Ball</a>. The Cavs also reportedly re-signed <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93904" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93904">Sam Merrill</a> to a 4-year, $38-million deal and selected Duke point guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/171844" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/171844">Tyrese Proctor</a> with the 49th overall pick in this year's draft, fleshing out a backcourt rotation behind expected starters <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44998" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/44998">Donovan Mitchell</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/70243" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/70243">Darius Garland</a>.

ORLANDO, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 25: Ty Jerome #2 of the Cleveland Cavaliers reacts after scoring a three-pointer against the Orlando Magic during the fourth quarter at Kia Center on February 25, 2025 in Orlando, Florida.

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Report: Ty Jerome joining Grizzlies on 3-year, $28M deal

Free-agent guard D'Angelo Russell is joining the Dallas Mavericks on a two-year, $13-million cont...

Free-agent guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37752" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37752">D'Angelo Russell</a> is joining the Dallas Mavericks on a two-year, $13-million contract, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1939821866367295931">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.The 29-year-old split 58 games last season between the Los Angeles Lakers and Brooklyn Nets, joining the latter as part of the December trade that sent <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11858" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11858">Dorian Finney-Smith</a> to Los Angeles. Russell started in 26 of 29 appearances with the Nets, averaging 12.9 points, 5.6 assists, 2.8 rebounds, and 1.1 steals. However, he shot a career-worst 39% from the floor on the season, including a 31.4% mark from deep despite shooting 40.6% on threes in the two seasons prior.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Russell is likely to start for Dallas while starting point guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/6154" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/6154">Kyrie Irving</a> continues to recover from the ACL tear he sustained in March. Irving, 33, is <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3295070" href="https://thescore.com/news/3295070">expected</a> to sign a new three-year, $119-million contract with the Mavericks, and the team is reportedly optimistic he will return from his knee injury in January.The move reunites Russell with former Lakers teammate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11373" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11373">Anthony Davis</a>. The two were together from 2022-25, including the team's run to the 2023 Western Conference finals, when the Lakers were swept by the eventual NBA champions, the Denver Nuggets.

HOUSTON, TEXAS - FEBRUARY 01: D'Angelo Russell #1 of the Brooklyn Nets reacts after a game against the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center on February 01, 2025 in Houston, Texas.

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Report: Mavs land D-Lo on 2-year, $13M deal

The Los Angeles Clippers will re-sign veteran Nicolas Batum to a two-year, $11.5-million contract...

The Los Angeles Clippers will re-sign veteran <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///fiba/players/412" href="https://thescore.com/fiba/players/412">Nicolas Batum</a> to a two-year, $11.5-million contract, sources told <a href="https://twitter.com/ShamsCharania/status/1939745171689939351">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.Batum, 36, played in 78 games for the Clippers last season, making eight starts.He averaged just four points and 2.8 rebounds but was a 43.3% shooter from distance on 2.6 attempts per contest. The 6-foot-8 forward was also one of Los Angeles' most versatile defenders.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The reported agreement prevents Batum from hitting the open market as an unrestricted free agent. The 17-year vet, who on Saturday reportedly declined a $4.9-million player option for next season, would have been eligible to negotiate with all 30 teams Monday after 6 p.m. ET.Batum represents the Clippers' second major re-signing of the last 24 hours. Los Angeles <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3295296" href="https://thescore.com/news/3295296">reportedly</a> reached an agreement with star guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/351" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/351">James Harden</a> on a new two-year, $81.5-million deal after he turned down a $36.3-million option for next season.

INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - MAY 01: Nicolas Batum #33 of the LA Clippers secures a rebound behind Nikola Jokic #15 of the Denver Nuggets in Game Six of the Western Conference First Round NBA Playoffs at Intuit Dome on May 01, 2025 in Inglewood, California.

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Report: Clippers retain Batum with 2-year, $11.5M deal

LeBron James exercised his $52.6-million player option and will return for a record-breaking 23rd...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a> exercised his $52.6-million player option and will return for a record-breaking 23rd NBA season in 2025-26, his agent Rich Paul told <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/45608010/lebron-james-picks-526m-option-monitoring-lakers-moves">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.However, Paul acknowledged that James, in tandem with the organization, could explore a possible exit from the Los Angeles Lakers if he doesn't consider a title a realistic target for the squad next season."LeBron wants to compete for a championship," Paul told Charania. "He knows the Lakers are building for the future. He understands that, but he values a realistic chance of winning it all. We are very appreciative of the partnership that we've had for eight years with Jeanie (Buss) and Rob (Pelinka) and consider the Lakers as a critical part of his career.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"We understand the difficulty in winning now while preparing for the future. We do want to evaluate what's best for LeBron at this stage in his life and career. He wants to make every season he has left count, and the Lakers understand that, are supportive, and want what's best for him."The 2025-26 campaign will be James' first full year alongside five-time All-NBAer Luka Doncic, whom the Lakers stunningly acquired from the Dallas Mavericks in February. The move purportedly set the table for the Lakers' future after James, though the star duo is certainly capable of bringing postseason success to L.A. with the right supporting cast.James, 40, will enter the campaign second on the league's all-time regular-season games played list with 1,562. Boston Celtics icon Robert Parish holds the record with 1,611, meaning James would need to appear in 50 games next season to exceed that mark.On his first appearance, he will break a tie with Vince Carter for the most NBA seasons by one player.The four-time MVP averaged 24.4 points, 8.2 assists, 7.8 rebounds, and a steal in 70 regular-season games in 2024-25 and was named to the All-NBA second team - his 21st consecutive All-NBA honor.James <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3292262" href="https://thescore.com/news/3292262">reportedly</a> intended to speak with Lakers brass about roster improvements before officially exercising his option. The franchise's shocking acquisition of Doncic still cost them 10-time All-Star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11373" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11373">Anthony Davis</a>, an interior presence the club missed during its first-round loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves.Lakers president of basketball operations and general manager Rob Pelinka said following the series-deciding Game 5 defeat that the team would look to add a center in the offseason. L.A. rescinded a deadline-day move for Charlotte Hornets center Mark Williams after the third-year big man failed his physical.However, Los Angeles could be buoyed in a search for reinforcements thanks to a pending ownership change. Billionaire Mark Walter, the controlling owner of baseball's Los Angeles Dodgers, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3301679" href="https://thescore.com/news/3301679">reportedly</a> agreed to purchase the Buss family's majority stake in the historic NBA franchise earlier in June at a record $10-billion valuation. Jeanie Buss will reportedly continue in her role as governor of the team after the sale.

LOS ANGELES, CA - APRIL 30: Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) looks back at scoreboard during game 5 of the first round of the NBA Western Conference Playoffs between the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Los Angeles Lakers on April 30, 2025, at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, CA.

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LeBron picks up $52.6M option, still gauging Lakers' future

Forward Julius Randle is signing a three-year deal worth $100 million to remain with the Minnesot...

Forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/31118" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/31118">Julius Randle</a> is signing a three-year deal worth $100 million to remain with the Minnesota Timberwolves, sources told <a href="https://twitter.com/ShamsCharania/status/1939374145701093785">Shams Charania of ESPN</a>.The contract includes a player option for the 2027-28 season, Charania adds.Randle had a $30.9-million player option to decide on for this summer that would have allowed him to test free agency Monday. Instead, the 30-year-old will reportedly decline the option to sign a new long-term deal with Minnesota.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The three-time All-Star is coming off a solid debut year with the Timberwolves, averaging 18.7 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 4.7 assists. Randle was among Minnesota's most dependable players throughout the first two rounds of the playoffs, posting 23.9 points, 5.9 assists, and 5.9 rebounds per game to help Chris Finch's side go 8-2 through the Western Conference semifinals. However, he was inconsistent in the conference finals against the eventual NBA champions, the Oklahoma City Thunder, scoring six and five points in Games 2 and 4, respectively, but recording at least 24 points in the three other contests.The Timberwolves acquired Randle in the preseason blockbuster trade that sent <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37817" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37817">Karl-Anthony Towns</a> to the New York Knicks.Randle's reported re-signing continues a busy offseason for the Wolves following their third conference finals berth in franchise history. On Friday, Minnesota <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3305043" href="https://thescore.com/news/3305043">reportedly</a> reached an agreement with center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/69736" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/69736">Naz Reid</a> on a five-year, $125-million contract, days after taking French center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/171833" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/171833">Joan Beringer</a> with the 17th overall pick in the draft. The club was also among several reported teams that attempted to trade for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/345" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/345">Kevin Durant</a> before the Phoenix Suns agreed to ship the former MVP to the Houston Rockets.

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - MAY 14: Julius Randle #30 of the Minnesota Timberwolves celebrates against the Golden State Warriors during the first quarter in Game Five of the Western Conference Second Round NBA Playoffs at Target Center on May 14, 2025 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

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Report: Randle re-signing with Wolves on 3-year, $100M deal

Los Angeles Lakers forward Dorian Finney-Smith will test the open market after declining his $15....

Los Angeles Lakers forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11858" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11858">Dorian Finney-Smith</a> will test the open market after declining his $15.4-million option for 2025-26, sources told <a href="https://twitter.com/ShamsCharania/status/1939354198560387073">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.Finney-Smith will reportedly attract interest from multiple contenders once permitted to negotiate with teams Monday at 6 p.m. ET. However, he could also return to the Lakers on a new deal.The 32-year-old was traded to Los Angeles in December by the Brooklyn Nets and immediately became one of the most impactful defenders on JJ Redick's squad. Finney-Smith's 109.1 defensive rating was the best mark by any Laker to play at least 400 minutes last season.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>In 43 regular-season games with L.A., the nine-year vet averaged 7.9 points, 3.6 rebounds, 1.4 assists, and shot 39.8% on 4.8 attempts from deep.Finney-Smith's importance to the Lakers became even more pronounced during their short-lived first-round exit against the Minnesota Timberwolves. In the 70 minutes he was off the court in the five-game series, the Lakers posted a dismal minus-17.3 net rating. The only stretch worse for L.A. came during the 32 minutes without Luka Doncic, the fewest of any Laker, when the team posted a minus-17.5.Finney-Smith's option decision contrasts with that of teammate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a>, who <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3295036" href="https://thescore.com/news/3295036">exercised</a> his $ 52.6 million salary for next season on Sunday. However, James' longtime agent, Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul, acknowledged that all three parties could explore a possible separation ahead of next season if the superstar forward doesn't believe the Lakers can meet his goal of contending for a title in 2026.

LOS ANGELES, CA - APRIL 30: Dorian Finney-Smith #17 of the Los Angeles Lakers looks on during the game against the Minnesota Timberwolves during Round One Game Five of the 2025 NBA Playoffs on April 30, 2025 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 2025 NBAE

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Report: Lakers' Finney-Smith turns down $15.4M option for free agency

Miami Heat guard Davion Mitchell will sign a two-year, $24-million deal to remain with the team n...

Miami Heat guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96105" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96105">Davion Mitchell</a> will sign a two-year, $24-million deal to remain with the team next season, sources told <a href="https://twitter.com/ShamsCharania/status/1939018129700511761">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.Mitchell joined Miami from the Toronto Raptors as part of the midseason multi-team blockbuster that sent Jimmy Butler to the Golden State Warriors. He averaged 10.3 points, 5.3 assists, and 2.7 rebounds for the Heat while starting in 15 of his 30 appearances.He was set to become a restricted free agent this summer.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 26-year-old was one of the Heat's most impactful players during their first-round series against the top-seeded Cleveland Cavaliers. He averaged a team-best 6.3 assists in the four losses and his 15 points per game ranked third behind franchise cornerstones <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/69689" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/69689">Tyler Herro</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53731" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53731">Bam Adebayo</a>.

MIAMI, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 28: Davion Mitchell #45 of the Miami Heat controls the ball against the Indiana Pacers during the first half at Kaseya Center on February 28, 2025 in Miami, Florida.

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Report: Heat to bring back Davion Mitchell on 2-year, $24M deal

The Chicago Bulls are moving on from Lonzo Ball.  Chicago is trading the veteran guard to the Cle...

The Chicago Bulls are moving on from <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53246" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53246">Lonzo Ball</a>.Chicago is trading the veteran guard to the Cleveland Cavaliers in exchange for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93865" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93865">Isaac Okoro</a>, sources told <a href="https://twitter.com/ShamsCharania/status/1938976906960883936">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.Ball had been with the Bulls since the 2021-22 campaign but missed all of 2022-23 and 2023-24 due to knee issues. He tore the meniscus in his left knee midway through his debut season in Chicago and eventually missed the remainder of the campaign due to persistent pain throughout his recovery. He underwent a rare cartilage and meniscus transplant in March 2023, extending his absence but allowing him to return for the 2024-25 season opener.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>He averaged 7.6 points, 3.3 assists, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.3 steals in 35 games last season for the Bulls, who signed him to a two-year, $20-million extension in February.Okoro is coming off his fifth NBA season, all of which he spent with the Cavs. He missed 21 of 27 games between late December and early February after spraining the AC joint in his right shoulder, limiting him to a career-low 55 appearances in 2024-25. As a result, he fell in the Cavs' rotation, going from 27.3 minutes per game to 19.1 and averaging a career-worst 6.1 points and 2.4 rebounds.Ball gives Cleveland another pure point guard to back up starter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/70243" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/70243">Darius Garland</a>. He also serves as a contingency option for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53038" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53038">Ty Jerome</a>; the 27-year-old guard will hit unrestricted free agency Monday, and he will almost certainly command a heftier contract than the two-year, $5-million deal he signed with the Cavaliers in 2023.Okoro, 24, fits the profile for a new-look Bulls squad that boasted seven players aged 25 or younger who averaged at least 15 minutes per game last season. The organization also added 6-foot-9 French forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/171811" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/171811">Noa Essengue</a> with the 12th overall pick in this year's draft.

CHICAGO, IL - OCTOBER 16: Chicago Bulls guard Lonzo Ball (2) reacts to the crowd as he enters during the first half of a preseason game against the Minnesota Timberwolves on October 16, 2024 at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois.

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Report: Bulls trading Lonzo to Cavs for Okoro

WNBA Power Rankings are selected by a panel of theScore's basketball editors.  In this edition, w...

WNBA Power Rankings are selected by a panel of theScore's basketball editors.In this edition, we're examining a busy stretch of the schedule as the 2025 regular season surpasses the quarter mark.Jump to: <a href="#ATL">ATL</a> | <a href="#CHI">CHI</a> | <a href="#CON">CON</a> | <a href="#DAL">DAL</a> | <a href="#GSV">GSV</a> | <a href="#IND">IND</a> | <a href="#LV">LV</a> | <a href="#LA">LA</a> | <a href="#MIN">MIN</a> | <a href="#NY">NY</a> | <a href="#PHX">PHX</a> | <a href="#SEA">SEA</a> | <a href="#WSH">WSH</a><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>1. <a id="MIN" name="MIN">Minnesota Lynx (12-2)</a>
</h3>Previous: 2The two-loss Lynx vault to the top spot in the rankings, though all eyes are on MVP frontrunner Napheesa Collier and a back injury that's kept her out for the last two games. And if the season-low 64-point showing in the loss to the Mystics is any indication, Minnesota need Collier back sooner than later<h3>2. <a id="PHX" name="PHX">Phoenix Mercury (11-4)</a>
</h3>Previous: 4The Mercury may object to all the talk of a Lynx-Liberty hegemony. Their five straight wins, including New York's only home loss, have kept them right on the heels of last year's finalists at the top of the table despite the roster turnover. Offseason addition Satou Sabally has been a big reason why the Mercury are exceeding all expectations.<h3>3. <a id="NY" name="NY">New York Liberty (10-3)</a>
</h3>Previous: 1After a 9-0 start, the Liberty have lost three of four, including a defeat to Indiana in which they conceded 102 points. Finals MVP Jonquel Jones is out four-to-six weeks due to an ankle sprain suffered against the Mercury, and her absence was immediately felt - New York was outrebounded 42-32 in the home loss.<h3>4. <a id="ATL" name="ATL">Atlanta Dream (10-5)</a>
</h3>Previous: 3Are the Dream title contenders or on the fringe of the upper echelon? It's not immediately clear, and while they have won 11 of 14, one of those three defeats came at the hands of the Liberty when they coughed up a 17-point second-half lead and chance at a spot in the Commissioner's Cup finale. They also shot 15-of-64 (23.4%) in Tuesday's loss to the Mystics.<h3>5. <a id="SEA" name="SEA">Seattle Storm (9-6)</a>
</h3>Previous: 5<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/791664/cropped_GettyImages-2219893656.jpg?ts=1750732230" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/791664/w220xh124_GettyImages-2219893656.jpg?ts=1750732230 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/791664/w320xh180_GettyImages-2219893656.jpg?ts=1750732230 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/791664/w640xh360_GettyImages-2219893656.jpg?ts=1750732230 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/791664/w768xh432_GettyImages-2219893656.jpg?ts=1750732230 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/791664/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2219893656.jpg?ts=1750732230 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Alika Jenner / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>The Storm have dropped just two of eight games since their June 1 loss to the Aces, even though only 13.8% of their points have come via free throws. Instead, Noelle Quinn's squad has forced opponents to commit 17.3 turnovers per game in June while averaging just 13.4 of their own - both rank second in the league this month.<h3>6. <a id="GSV" name="GSV">Golden State Valkyries (7-6)</a>
</h3>Previous: 9The Valkyries are a nuisance to play against, which is a credit to rookie head coach Natalie Nakase. Her empowerment of career role players has pulled the most out of a limited roster, and she's installed a coherent identity: Golden State defends well and is a menace on the boards with a league-high 37 rebounds per game.<h3>7. <a id="IND" name="IND">Indiana Fever (7-7)</a>
</h3>Previous: 6Caitlin Clark shot a combined 1-of-17 from deep in the Fever's back-to-back losses to the Valkyries and Aces, putting Indiana at 1-3 on the season when she fails to hit more than a pair of threes. Even the best stars' shots will occasionally go cold, but the Fever need better than a 63.7 assist percentage - the second-worst mark in the W - to offset those nights.<h3>8. <a id="LV" name="LV">Las Vegas Aces (6-7)</a>
</h3>Previous: 7Though they dropped her first game back against the Storm, the Aces are surely relieved to have A'ja Wilson back after spending three games in the league's concussion protocol. Their net rating falls by 7.9 points during her off-court minutes, the steepest on-off differential produced by any player who's played at least 50 minutes this season.<h3>9. <a id="WSH" name="WSH">Washington Mystics (7-8)</a>
</h3>Previous: 8The Mystics remain a work in progress, but they're easy to get excited about, especially after the thrilling 91-88 overtime win over the Wings in which stellar rookie Sonia Citron got the last laugh against college rival Paige Bueckers with a clutch game-winning triple.<h3>10. <a id="CHI" name="CHI">Chicago Sky (4-10)</a>
</h3>Previous: 11<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/791795/cropped_GettyImages-2221972675.jpg?ts=1750816241" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/791795/w220xh124_GettyImages-2221972675.jpg?ts=1750816241 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/791795/w320xh180_GettyImages-2221972675.jpg?ts=1750816241 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/791795/w640xh360_GettyImages-2221972675.jpg?ts=1750816241 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/791795/w768xh432_GettyImages-2221972675.jpg?ts=1750816241 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/791795/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2221972675.jpg?ts=1750816241 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Daniel Bartel / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Chicago is in desperate need of a scorer that they can rely on. The Sky are the only team without a single player averaging at least 15 points, and just one of two teams - the other being the Mystics - without someone hitting at least two threes per game.<h3>11. <a id="DAL" name="DAL">Dallas Wings (4-12)</a>
</h3>Previous: 13The Wings are more competitive than their record suggests. It helps that they boast a league-best 14.2 second-chance points per game and are among the top rebounding sides. It also doesn't hurt that Bueckers leads the WNBA in scoring in June (20.6 PPG). There are some positive signs amid a full-scale rebuild.<h3>12. <a id="LA" name="LA">Los Angeles Sparks (4-11)</a>
</h3>Previous: 10Even accounting for their loss in Chicago on Tuesday, the Sparks still oddly boast a better road record than they do in L.A., where they're still searching for a second win. They'll have a solid opportunity for one when they host the Sky on June 29, but they'd have to wait until a three-game homestand leading into the All-Star break if that proves unsuccessful.<h3>13. <a id="CON" name="CON">Connecticut Sun (2-12)</a>
</h3>Previous: 12The Sun are on a six-game losing streak, a stretch capped by a 37-point defeat to the Mystics and a beatdown against the expansion Valkyries. They also own the league's worst offensive (91.4) and defensive ratings (111.8), resulting in a negative-20.3 net rating. It's rough in Connecticut.

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WNBA Power Rankings: Mercury rising as Liberty cool off

Indiana Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton shared an update late Monday following surgery to repair th...

Indiana Pacers star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93893" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93893">Tyrese Haliburton</a> shared an update late Monday following surgery to repair the Achilles tear he sustained in Game 7 of the NBA Finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder."At 25, I've already learned that God never gives us more than we can handle," he said as part of a lengthy post on X. "I know I'll come out on the other side of this a better man and a better player."And honestly, right now, torn Achilles and all, I don't regret it. I'd do it again, and again after that, to fight for this city and my brothers. For the chance to do something special."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Man. Don’t know how to explain it other than shock. Words cannot express the pain of this letdown. The frustration is unfathomable. I’ve worked my whole life to get to this moment and this is how it ends? Makes no sense. Now that I’ve gotten surgery, I wish I could count the… <a href="https://t.co/UyY0iFEp6Z">pic.twitter.com/UyY0iFEp6Z</a>— Tyrese Haliburton (@TyHaliburton22) <a href="https://twitter.com/TyHaliburton22/status/1937344254507978938?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 24, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Haliburton strained his right calf earlier in the Finals but didn't miss a game. Even with the star guard visibly limited in his movement, the Pacers rebounded from back-to-back losses in Games 4 and 5 to win Game 6 at home and force Sunday's winner-take-all matchup in Oklahoma City.The two-time All-NBAer got off to a hot start in Game 7, shooting 3-of-4 from distance and helping the Pacers keep pace with the Thunder in the opening half of the first quarter. However, after planting his right foot while attempting to drive by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60411" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60411">Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</a>, he suddenly collapsed to the floor in pain, ending his Game 7 after just seven minutes.The Thunder went on to win 103-91, capturing the franchise's first NBA title.Haliburton will now likely miss an extended period in 2025-26, with no guarantee he will suit up at all next season."My journey to get to where I am today wasn't by happenstance; I've pushed myself every day to be great. And I will continue to do just that," he added Monday. "The most important part of this all is that I'm grateful. I'm grateful for every single experience that's led me here. I'm grateful for all the love from the hoop world."I don't 'have to' go through this, I get to go through this. I'm grateful for the road that lies ahead. Watch how I come back from this. So, give me some time, I'll dust myself off and get right back to being the best version of Tyrese Haliburton."Haliburton was the third player in this postseason to suffer an Achilles tear. Milwaukee Bucks star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/5343" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/5343">Damian Lillard</a> tore the same tendon in his left foot in the first round against Indiana, and Boston Celtics forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/52651" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/52651">Jayson Tatum</a> suffered the same fate in Game 4 of the conference semifinals against the New York Knicks.

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - JUNE 11: Tyrese Haliburton #0 of the Indiana Pacers looks on during the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder during Game Three of the 2025 NBA Finals on June 11, 2025 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Haliburton doesn't regret Achilles tear in Game 7: 'I'd do it again'

Dallas Mavericks center Daniel Gafford will sign a three-year extension with the club worth just ...

Dallas Mavericks center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60087" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60087">Daniel Gafford</a> will sign a three-year extension with the club worth just under $60 million, sources told <a href="https://twitter.com/ShamsCharania/status/1937294394178117663">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.Gafford's previous three-year contract was set to expire after the 2025-26 season.The 26-year-old scored a career-best 12.3 points per game last season while starting in 31 of his 57 appearances. He also contributed 6.8 rebounds and 1.8 blocks per contest, ranking second on the team in the latter behind <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11373" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11373">Anthony Davis</a>, who averaged 2.2 in nine games for Dallas.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The reported agreement secures another pivotal long-term piece for the Mavericks. Only six players are under contract beyond next season, not including young bigs <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110268" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110268">Dereck Lively II</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110269" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110269">Olivier-Maxence Prosper</a>, who have team options in 2026-27.Dallas, which is all but certain to add former Duke phenom Cooper Flagg with the No. 1 pick in Wednesday's draft, could have three other extension decisions to make this summer on <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/6154" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/6154">Kyrie Irving</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60416" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60416">P.J. Washington</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/6312" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/6312">Dwight Powell</a>. Irving, who will likely miss a significant portion of next season recovering from a torn ACL suffered in March, holds a $43-million player option for 2025-26 that he must decide on by Tuesday.

DALLAS, TEXAS - OCTOBER 24: Daniel Gafford #21 of the Dallas Mavericks celebrates a score against the San Antonio Spurs during the third quarter at American Airlines Center on October 24, 2024 in Dallas, Texas.

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Report: Mavs signing Gafford to 3-year extension worth nearly $60M

The Phoenix Suns are trading superstar forward Kevin Durant to the Houston Rockets for Jalen Gree...

The Phoenix Suns are trading superstar forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/345" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/345">Kevin Durant</a> 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 No. 10 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, and five second-round picks, sources told <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/45561747/sources-suns-trading-kevin-durant-rockets-blockbuster-deal">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.Durant, 36, leaves Phoenix after averaging 26.8 points, 6.3 rebounds, 4.6 assists, and 1.2 blocks with 52.7/42.7/84.7 shooting splits over the last two-and-a-half seasons.The Suns had long searched for a new home for Durant, who attracted significant interest dating back to the midseason trade deadline.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>However, Phoenix <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3295238" href="https://thescore.com/news/3295238">reportedly</a> had to lower its asking price after struggling to find a trade partner for the four-time scoring champion. Durant was also apparently partial to specific teams amid the discussions; the 15-time All-Star reportedly <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3300269" href="https://thescore.com/news/3300269">preferred</a> the Rockets, San Antonio Spurs, or Miami Heat and said he would be open to a subsequent long-term deal if he landed on any of the three.The former MVP's career 27.2 points per game is the third-highest mark among active players behind only <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/31932" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/31932">Joel Embiid</a>. He's also registering seven rebounds, 4.4 assists, 1.1 blocks, and one steal per outing throughout a 17-year career while falling just short of the 50/40/90 club with 50.2/39/88.2 splits.Injuries have curtailed the two-time NBA champion in recent years, though. He missed the entire 2019-20 season due to the torn Achilles he sustained in the 2019 Finals with the Golden State Warriors and has missed significant time in nearly every season since. The 2023-24 campaign, his first full year in Phoenix, was the only season in which Durant played at least 65 contests since returning from his Achilles tear.Green is the centerpiece of Phoenix's return, and leaves Houston after four seasons. The 23-year-old was a constant presence for the Rockets, appearing in all 82 games in each of the last two seasons. The G League Ignite product and former No. 2 overall pick averaged 20.1 points across four seasons and earned NBA All-Rookie first team honors in 2022.Brooks spent the last two campaigns in Houston and was named to the NBA All-Defensive second team in 2023. The Canadian wing averaged 14 points and 3.7 rebounds last season for the Rockets.The Minnesota Timberwolves, Cleveland Cavaliers, Denver Nuggets, Los Angeles Clippers, and Toronto Raptors all pursued Durant despite their absences from his wish list, according to Charania.

PHOENIX, AZ - MARCH 30: Kevin Durant #35 of the Phoenix Suns and Dillon Brooks #9 of the Houston Rockets looks on during the game on March 30, 2025 at PHX Arena in Phoenix, Arizona. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Report: Suns trade Durant to Rockets for Green, Brooks, picks

Milwaukee Bucks guard Pat Connaughton is exercising his 2025-26 player option worth $9.4 million,...

Milwaukee Bucks guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11120" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11120">Pat Connaughton</a> is exercising his 2025-26 player option worth $9.4 million, sources told <a href="https://twitter.com/ShamsCharania/status/1936516278078017776">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.Connaughton was one of three Bucks players with player options for next season, joining <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30845" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30845">Bobby Portis</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/70216" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/70216">Kevin Porter Jr.</a> Both Portis and Porter have yet to make a decision.The 32-year-old Connaughton is one of Milwaukee's longest tenured players: The veteran wing has been with the franchise since the 2018-19 campaign, tying him with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/300" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/300">Brook Lopez</a>, who could depart as a free agent this summer. Only <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30611" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30611">Giannis Antetokounmpo</a>, whose own future in Milwaukee has been in doubt recently, has been on the Bucks longer.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Connaughton averaged 5.3 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 1.7 assists for the Bucks last season but fell in the rotation's pecking order, dropping to 14.7 minutes per contest after averaging 22.1 in 2023-24. However, he saved his best effort for the final game of the regular season, scoring a career-high 43 points on 16-of-29 shooting (5-of-12 from deep) with 11 rebounds, five assists, and two steals in a 140-133 overtime win against the Detroit Pistons.Picking up his option doesn't guarantee the Notre Dame product will return to Milwaukee, however. With his contract now locked in for 2025-26, the Bucks can now use his salary in potential trades as they look to retool their roster with star guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/5343" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/5343">Damian Lillard</a> expected to miss significant time next season due to a torn Achilles.

DENVER, COLORADO - MARCH 26: Pat Connaughton #24 of the Milwaukee Bucks handles the ball during the first quarter against the Denver Nuggets at Ball Arena on March 26, 2025 in Denver, Colorado.

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Report: Bucks' Connaughton picks up $9.4M player option

The Los Angeles Lakers are changing hands.  The Buss family, longtime owner of the iconic NBA fra...

The Los Angeles Lakers are changing hands.The Buss family, longtime owner of the iconic NBA franchise, is selling its majority ownership stake in the franchise to billionaire Mark Walter, sources told <a href="https://twitter.com/ShamsCharania/status/1935439586311672219">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.The agreement <a href="https://twitter.com/ShamsCharania/status/1935444138884800902">reportedly</a> values the Lakers at a record $10 billion. The deal is set to surpass the record $6.1-billion sale of the rival Boston Celtics in March.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Walter, the CEO of holding company TWG Global and international investment firm Guggenheim Partners, is also the chairman and majority owner of MLB's Los Angeles Dodgers. He's held a minority stake in the Lakers since 2021 and had the right of first refusal if the Buss family were to sell its 66% share, according to <a href="https://x.com/ramonashelburne/status/1935440411121828327">ESPN's Ramona Shelburne</a>.Jeanie Buss will reportedly remain governor of the NBA franchise after the sale is finalized.The Buss family has owned the Lakers since 1979 when patriarch Jerry Buss paid $67.5 million for the team as part of an agreement to take over the franchise, along with the NHL's Los Angeles Kings. The Hall of Famer owned the Lakers until his death in February 2013, a 34-year stretch in which the club won 10 NBA championships.His daughter Jeanie officially assumed control of the franchise in 2017 following a protracted ownership dispute with her brothers. The organization captured its 17th NBA title in 2020 - its first and only championship during Jeanie's time as controlling owner.Walter has owned the Dodgers since he and a group of fellow investors, including Lakers legend and Hall of Famer Magic Johnson, formed Guggenheim Baseball Management and paid a then-record $2 billion for the franchise in March 2012. The historic MLB club has won two World Series and played in another two in the 13 years since.In December 2023, the Dodgers made international headlines by signing Japanese two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani to a 10-year deal worth $700 million, with most of the money deferred until 2034 at the earliest. It was the largest contract ever signed in professional sports until Dominican outfielder Juan Soto inked a 15-year, $765-million pact with the New York Mets this past winter.

EL SEGUNDO, CA - September 20: Jeanie Buss, CEO / Governor / Co-owner of the Los Angeles Lakers, holds a new Lakers jersey as the Lakers host a 2021-2022 season kick-off event to unveil and announce a new global marketing partnership with Bibigo, which will appear on the Lakers jersey at the UCLA Health Training Center in El Segundo on Monday, Sept. 20, 2021. (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)

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