Natasha Cloud is tired of seeing her New York Liberty be overlooked in a crowded New York City sp...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/18106" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/18106">Natasha Cloud</a> is tired of seeing her New York Liberty be overlooked in a crowded New York City sports market.</p><p>The Liberty captured their first-ever championship in 2024, and Cloud wants it known they're hunting for more.</p><p>"Pay attention to Liberty basketball," she told theScore's Brad Parker. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Natasha Cloud said put some respect on the Liberty name 🏆🗣️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/clips_league_wnba?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#clips_league_wnba</a> <a href="https://t.co/DxKqaAqP06">pic.twitter.com/DxKqaAqP06</a></p>— theScore (@theScore) <a href="https://twitter.com/theScore/status/1929956554280775981?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 3, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The New York sports market, which boasts two men's franchises in each of the NHL, MLB, NFL, and NBA, has failed to win a championship in those markets since 2011. The Big Apple's last men's sports victory came when New York City FC won the MLS Cup in 2022.</p><p>The Liberty have jumped out to a 7-0 record, tying the franchise record for most wins to start a season. Most recently, they destroyed the Connecticut Sun by the second-largest margin in a WNBA game (48 points).</p><p>New York traded two first-round picks to acquire Cloud this past offseason. The defensive ace is averaging 10.9 points and 6.9 assists so far this campaign.</p><p>The Liberty will have an opportunity to collect their eighth consecutive victory against the 3-4 Washington Mystics on Thursday.</p>

BROOKLYN, NY - JUNE 1: Natasha Cloud #9 of the New York Liberty celebrates during the game against the Connecticut Sun on June 1, 2025 at Barclays Center Arena in Brooklyn, New York. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Cloud: 'Pay attention to Liberty basketball'

Kevin Durant's time with the Phoenix Suns may be coming to an end.  The Suns are in "aggressive p...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/345" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/345">Kevin Durant</a>'s time with the Phoenix Suns may be coming to an end.</p><p>The Suns are in "aggressive pursuit" of a trade partner for the 15-time All-Star and have gradually lowered their asking price, sources told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6396071/2025/06/03/rockets-steven-adams-giannis-antetokounmpo-nba-draft/?utm_medium=social&amp;utm_campaign=nbatw&amp;source=nbatw">The Athletic's Kelly Iko</a>.</p><p>The Suns' main priority is to regain full control of their draft capital, including the No. 10 pick in the upcoming draft, Iko adds.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Durant has spent the past two-and-a-half seasons in Phoenix and has just one playoff series win to show for it. The 36-year-old averaged 26.6 points, six rebounds, and 4.2 assists in 62 games last campaign. He'll make $54.7 million in 2025-26 and is set to become a free agent next summer. </p><p>Phoenix doesn't control its own first- or second-round selection until 2032, as the club used most of its picks in those rounds to trade for Durant and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11887" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11887">Bradley Beal</a>.</p><p>The Houston Rockets possess the Suns' 2025 and 2027 first-rounders and have the right to swap 2029 firsts. The Washington Wizards, meanwhile, hold the rights to swap selections in 2026 and 2030.</p><p>Phoenix reportedly fielded calls from multiple teams for Durant ahead of the 2025 trade deadline, which came as a surprise to the two-time Finals MVP. Durant's former squad, the Golden State Warriors, was among the interested clubs. </p><p>Phoenix went 10-18 after the All-Star break and fell short of the play-in games, finishing 11th in the West. Durant missed the final seven contests of the year due to a left ankle sprain.</p><p>The Suns were <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3231658" href="https://thescore.com/news/3231658">contemplating</a> making major offseason changes if the team didn't make a deep postseason run, and they reportedly have four to six contenders interested in Durant this offseason.</p><p>Phoenix's attempt at building a superteam around Durant, Beal, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37815" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37815">Devin Booker</a> has failed to yield anything fruitful. The trio hasn't won a playoff game since being put together in the summer of 2023.</p>

PHOENIX, ARIZONA - MARCH 21: Kevin Durant #35 of the Phoenix Suns reacts after hitting a three point basket during the second half against the Cleveland Cavaliers at PHX Arena on March 21, 2025 in Phoenix, Arizona.

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Report: Suns aggressively seeking Durant deal, lower asking price

Despite falling short of leading the Knicks to their first Finals appearance in over 25 years, Ja...

<p>Despite falling short of leading the Knicks to their first Finals appearance in over 25 years, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45223" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/45223">Jalen Brunson</a> remains unwavering in his belief that this New York squad can win an NBA title.</p><p>"The most confidence. Overconfident," Brunson <a href="https://x.com/espn/status/1929021531264294943">told</a> reporters after the Knicks' playoff run ended with Saturday's Game 6 loss to the Indiana Pacers in the Eastern Conference finals. </p><p>"Seriously, there's not an ounce of any type of doubt that I'm not confident with this group."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Brunson led the conference finals in scoring, tallying 30.7 points per game.</p><p>But his efforts weren't enough to push the Knicks over the Pacers, who also eliminated New York in the second round last year.</p><p>The familiar results follow a 2024 offseason in which the Knicks made several big swings in pursuit of a championship. The front office dealt five first-round picks to acquire <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37879" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37879">Mikal Bridges</a> from the Brooklyn Nets, then traded All-Star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/31118" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/31118">Julius Randle</a> and sharpshooter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45225" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/45225">Donte DiVincenzo</a> to the Minnesota Timberwolves for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37817" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37817">Karl-Anthony Towns</a> in October. Towns recorded 24.8 points per contest in the series versus Indiana, while Bridges averaged 15.8 points.</p><p>Following Saturday's disappointment, Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau admitted that this upcoming summer will be critical for the organization.</p><p>"Like you would do after every season, you take a step back, I think decompress, you do a deep dive on the team, and then you analyze what you think you need to improve upon. ... It's a big offseason for us," Thibodeau <a href="https://x.com/sny_knicks/status/1929009140220703203">said</a>.</p><p>The Knicks are projected to be a luxury tax team in 2025-26, with $200 million already committed to next season's roster and nine players headed to free agency, according to <a href="https://x.com/BobbyMarks42/status/1929008383249564012">ESPN's Bobby Marks</a>.</p><p>New York hasn't appeared in a Final since 1999 and hasn't won a championship since 1973.</p>

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - MAY 31: Jalen Brunson #11 of the New York Knicks handles the ball during the first quarter against the Indiana Pacers in Game Six of the Eastern Conference Finals of the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on May 31, 2025 in Indianapolis, Indiana.

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Pascal Siakam was named the Eastern Conference finals MVP after the Indiana Pacers eliminated the...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/39061" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/39061">Pascal Siakam</a> was named the Eastern Conference finals MVP after the Indiana Pacers eliminated the New York Knicks in Game 6 on Saturday.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">PASCAL SIAKAM IS THE EASTERN CONFERENCE FINALS MVP!!!<br><br>He receives the Larry Bird Trophy 🤩 <a href="https://t.co/ucKfAnWPEE">pic.twitter.com/ucKfAnWPEE</a></p>— NBA (@NBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBA/status/1929008634756800836?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The three-time All-Star received five of the nine votes from the media panel, narrowly edging out his teammate, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93893" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93893">Tyrese Haliburton</a>.</p><p>Siakam was Indiana's leading scorer against the Knicks, averaging 24.8 points to go along with five rebounds and 1.3 steals. He also had 30 points or more in three of the Pacers' four wins, including 31 in the closeout contest.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Siakam joins <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/52651" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/52651">Jayson Tatum</a> (2022), <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2809" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2809">Jimmy Butler</a> (2023), and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45455" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/45455">Jaylen Brown</a> (2024) as the only players to win the award.</p><p>The NBA Finals begin June 5 and will feature the Pacers versus the Oklahoma City Thunder.</p>

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - MAY 31: Pascal Siakam #43 of the Indiana Pacers celebrates the 125-108 win against the New York Knicks in Game Six of the Eastern Conference Finals of the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on May 31, 2025 in Indianapolis, Indiana.

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Siakam wins East finals MVP

Minnesota Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards isn't judging his Game 4 performance against the Okla...

<p>Minnesota Timberwolves star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93912" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93912">Anthony Edwards</a> isn't judging his Game 4 performance against the Oklahoma City Thunder solely on his box score.</p><p>"I don't look at it like I struggled," Edwards <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KY38DKMHj1c">said</a> after the Timberwolves lost 128-126 on Monday night to trail 3-1 in the Eastern Conference finals.</p><p>"They had a good game plan, making us get off the ball. Especially for me, they was super in the gaps. I made the right play all night, so I don't really look at it like I struggled. I didn't get enough shots to say I struggled. ... I didn't struggle at all. I made the right play."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Edwards recorded 16 points - his second-lowest output this postseason - along with four rebounds, six assists, and five turnovers in Game 4. He shot 5-of-13 from the field and 1-of-7 from three.</p><p>"You don't want to take bad shots and get your team out of rhythm. Just playing the game the right way, man, and that's what we did tonight as a team," Edwards added.</p><p>T-Wolves forward <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/31118">Julius Randle</a> also struggled Monday, tallying five points on 1-of-7 shooting and seven rebounds.</p><p>"I think it was just lot of me just spectating," Randle said postgame, per <a href="https://x.com/JonKrawczynski/status/1927221924507074572">The Athletic's Jon Krawczynski</a>. "I've gotta figure out a way to get myself involved in actions."</p><p>Monday marked the second time Edward took only 13 shots in the series. The first came in OKC's blowout loss in Game 1, after which he <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3289190" href="https://thescore.com/news/3289190">admitted</a> he "definitely" needed to shoot more if the T-Wolves wanted to upset the top-ranked Thunder.</p><p>Edwards and Randle combined for 54 points in Minnesota's lone playoff victory over the Thunder in Game 3.</p><p>The Timberwolves will attempt to stave off elimination in Game 5 on the road Wednesday night.</p>

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - MAY 26: Anthony Edwards #5 of the Minnesota Timberwolves shoots a free throw during the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder during Game 4 of the 2025 NBA Western Conference Finals on May 26, 2025 at Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Edwards shrugs off 16-point outing in Game 4: I didn't struggle

Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is the 2024-25 NBA MVP, the league announced ...

<p>Oklahoma City Thunder guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60411" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60411">Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</a> is the 2024-25 NBA MVP, the league announced Wednesday. </p><p>The Kentucky product beat out Denver Nuggets big man <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37604" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37604">Nikola Jokic</a> and Milwaukee Bucks forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30611" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30611">Giannis Antetokounmpo</a>, who have won the award three times and twice, respectively, to claim his first MVP award.</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Total points</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</td>
<td> Thunder</td>
<td> 913</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nikola Jokic</td>
<td> Nuggets</td>
<td> 787</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Giannis Antetokounmpo</td>
<td> Bucks</td>
<td> 470</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jayson Tatum</td>
<td> Celtics</td>
<td> 311</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Donovan Mitchell</td>
<td> Cavaliers</td>
<td> 74</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>LeBron James</td>
<td> Lakers</td>
<td>16</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Cade Cunningham</td>
<td> Pistons</td>
<td>12</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Anthony Edwards</td>
<td> Timberwolves</td>
<td>12</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Stephen Curry</td>
<td> Warriors</td>
<td> 2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jalen Brunson</td>
<td> Knicks</td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>James Harden</td>
<td> Clippers</td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Evan Mobley</td>
<td> Cavaliers</td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><em>*Gilgeous-Alexander received 71 of 100 first-place votes. Jokic received 29. </em></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"I always thought that I could be a really good player because I had seen what putting your head down and working and controlling what you control can do for you," Gilgeous-Alexander said, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/45256670/sources-thunder-shai-gilgeous-alexander-wins-nba-mvp">ESPN's Tim MacMahon</a>. "I made tremendous strides, but I never thought this was going to happen.</p><p>"I dreamt about it as a kid, but as a kid, it's a fake dream. But as the days go on and you realize that you get closer to your dream, it's hard to not freak out. It's hard to not be a six-year-old kid again. And I think that's what's allowed me to achieve it. I tried to just not focus on it and just worry about what's gotten to this place."</p><p>Gilgeous-Alexander is the second Canadian to win the NBA's most prestigious trophy - Steve Nash won back-to-back awards in 2005 and 2006. It's the seventh consecutive year the MVP was born outside the United States.</p><p>Gilgeous-Alexander was last season's runner-up but lost to Jokic by 286 points.</p><p>He's the first guard to be named the league's most valuable player since <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/351" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/351">James Harden</a> in 2018. The 26-year-old is the third Thunder player to win the award, joining <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/345" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/345">Kevin Durant</a> in 2014 and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/347" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/347">Russell Westbrook</a> in 2017.</p><p>Gilgeous-Alexander led OKC to a league-best 68 wins, which was also a franchise record, and the second-highest net rating in NBA history.</p><p>His 32.7 points per game represented the highest average in the league, and he led the Association in 50-, 40-, 30-, and 20-point outings. Gilgeous-Alexander was also fifth in the league in steals per game (1.7) and 14th in assists (6.4).</p><p>Gilgeous-Alexander is eligible to sign a five-year, $380-million extension in the 2026 offseason, according to <a href="https://x.com/BobbyMarks42/status/1925282001411539451">ESPN's Bobby Marks</a>.</p>

OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA - MAY 18: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander #2 of the Oklahoma City Thunder handles the ball during the first half of game seven of the Western Conference semifinals against the Denver Nuggets at Paycom Center on May 18, 2025 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

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Gilgeous-Alexander named MVP over 3-time winner Jokic

Memphis Grizzlies center Zach Edey and San Antonio Spurs guard Stephon Castle were named to the A...

<p>Memphis Grizzlies center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121683" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121683">Zach Edey</a> and San Antonio Spurs guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121685" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121685">Stephon Castle</a> were named to the All-Rookie first team, the league announced Tuesday.</p><p>The pair was joined by Washington Wizards forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121720" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121720">Alex Sarr</a>, No. 1 overall pick <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121714" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121714">Zaccharie Risacher</a>, and Edey's Grizzlies teammate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121734" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121734">Jaylen Wells</a> to round out the five-man squad.</p><p>A group of 100 NBA writers and broadcasters vote to select the All-Rookie teams.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">A global media panel of 100 voters selected the 2024-25 Kia NBA All-Rookie Team.<br><br>The complete voting results ⬇️ <a href="https://t.co/z50948YPcu">pic.twitter.com/z50948YPcu</a></p>— NBA Communications (@NBAPR) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBAPR/status/1924888168509141258?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p><strong>All-Rookie first team</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Position</th>
<th>Team</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Stephon Castle</td>
<td>Guard</td>
<td>Spurs</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Zach Edey</td>
<td>Center</td>
<td>Grizzlies</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Zaccharie Risacher</td>
<td>Forward</td>
<td>Hawks</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Alex Sarr</td>
<td>Forward</td>
<td>Wizards</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jaylen Wells</td>
<td>Guard</td>
<td>Grizzlies</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Castle won the 2024-25 Rookie of the Year after leading all first-year players in points (1,190) and steals (74).</p><p>Risacher topped all rookies with four games of at least 30 points, including a career-high 38-point outing against the Brooklyn Nets in April.</p><p>Edey and Wells became the first Grizzlies duo to earn All-Rookie honors since Ja Morant and Brandon Clarke in 2019-20. Edey led all rookies in field-goal percentage (58%), as well as rebounds (8.3) and offensive rebounds (3.5) per game. Wells, the only second-rounder to make either All-Rookie team, started 74 games for the Grizzlies and emerged as one of Memphis' best perimeter defenders. He averaged 10.4 points while shooting 35.2% from three this season.</p><p>Sarr ranked No. 2 in rookie scoring (minimum 30 games played) with 13 points per contest. He also averaged 6.5 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and 1.5 blocks.</p><p><strong>All-Rookie second team</strong></p><p>The league recognized the first-year class' stellar big men by adding the Miami Heat's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121675" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121675">Kel'el Ware</a>, the Portland Trail Blazers' <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121690" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121690">Donovan Clingan</a>, and the New Orleans Pelicans' <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121684" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121684">Yves Missi</a> to the All-Rookie second team.</p><p>Chicago Bulls forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121704" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121704">Matas Buzelis</a> and Washington Wizards guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121678" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121678">Bub Carrington</a> also cracked the team.</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Position</th>
<th>Team</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Matas Buzelis</td>
<td>Forward</td>
<td>Bulls</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bub Carrington</td>
<td>Guard</td>
<td>Wizards</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Donovan Clingan</td>
<td>Center</td>
<td>Blazers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kel'el Ware</td>
<td>Center</td>
<td>Heat</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Yves Missi</td>
<td>Center</td>
<td>Pelicans</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Utah Jazz guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121691" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121691">Isaiah Collier</a> trailed Carrington for the final All-Rookie spot by one point.</p>

MEMPHIS, TN - MARCH 01: Stephon Castle #5 of the San Antonio Spurs dribbles the ball during the game against the Memphis Grizzlies on March 01, 2025 at FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Grizzlies' Edey, Spurs' Castle headline All-Rookie teams

Former five-star recruit Boogie Fland will play his sophomore season for head coach Todd Golden a...

<p>Former five-star recruit <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/161991" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/161991">Boogie Fland</a> will play his sophomore season for head coach Todd Golden at Florida, he told <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1924842560348160045">ESPN's Shams Charania</a> on Tuesday.</p><p>Fland was the second-highest-ranked point guard and the 16th overall recruit in <a href="https://www.espn.com/college-sports/basketball/recruiting/playerrankings/_/class/2024/order/true">ESPN</a>'s 2024 rankings. He was initially going to play at Kentucky but decommitted after head coach John Calipari left for Arkansas. Fland was one of several Kentucky recruits and players to follow Calipari to Fayetteville.</p><p>The 6-foot-3 point guard averaged 13.5 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 5.1 assists in 21 games with the Razorbacks while shooting 37.9% from the field and 34% from deep.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Fland underwent hand surgery in late January but returned for Arkansas' Sweet 16 run. He struggled in his three post-surgery appearances, totaling 12 points in March Madness. Fland only played nine minutes in Arkansas' season-ending overtime loss to Texas Tech.</p><p>The 18-year-old tested for the NBA draft but withdrew his name from consideration last week.</p><p>Florida's backcourt will look very different from its national title-winning campaign. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/85616" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/85616">Alijah Martin</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/96362" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/96362">Walter Clayton Jr.</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/96288" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/96288">Will Richard</a> have all turned professional. Key reserve <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/103034" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/103034">Denzel Aberdeen</a> is transferring to Kentucky.</p><p>In addition to Fland, Florida has also acquired fellow transfer guards <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/105711" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/105711">Xaivian Lee</a> from Princeton and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/103475" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/103475">AJ Brown </a>from Ohio.</p><p>Starting center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/110644" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/110644">Rueben Chinyelu</a> tested for the NBA but reportedly withdrew his name and will be returning to Gainesville for his junior campaign. Chinyelu's frontcourt partner, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/110701" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/110701">Alex Condon</a>, is still going through the draft process.</p><p>Florida <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3281553" href="https://thescore.com/news/3281553">rewarded</a> Golden with a six-year contract extension worth $40.5 million after he led the Gators to their third-ever NCAA Tournament title last season.</p>

PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND - MARCH 22: Boogie Fland #2 of the Arkansas Razorbacks dribbles up court during a second round game against the St. John's Red Storm in the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Amica Mutual Pavillion on March 22, 2025 in Providence, Rhode Island.

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Ex-Arkansas guard Fland commits to Florida

The Eastern and Western Conference finals were decided when the New York Knicks and Oklahoma City...

<p>The Eastern and Western Conference finals were decided when the New York Knicks and Oklahoma City Thunder secured spots in the penultimate round, joining the Indiana Pacers and Minnesota Timberwolves.</p><p>Here, we rank the four potential combinations to meet in the NBA Finals, which begin June 5.</p><h3>4. Pacers vs. Timberwolves</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786100/cropped_GettyImages-2206887227.jpg?ts=1747492609" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786100/w220xh124_GettyImages-2206887227.jpg?ts=1747492609 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786100/w320xh180_GettyImages-2206887227.jpg?ts=1747492609 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786100/w640xh360_GettyImages-2206887227.jpg?ts=1747492609 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786100/w768xh432_GettyImages-2206887227.jpg?ts=1747492609 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786100/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2206887227.jpg?ts=1747492609 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Dylan Buell / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Key matchup: </strong>Tyrese Haliburton versus Anthony Edwards</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>It may rank fourth on our list, but a series between the Timberwolves and Pacers would be a sight to behold. These two top-10 offenses go about their scoring in very different ways. Indiana is run-and-gun, pushing the ball whenever possible, while Minnesota was the sixth-slowest team in the regular season.</p><p>The Pacers won both contests in March. Controlling the glass would be key for both squads. Minnesota's gargantuan starting five is averaging 9.2 offensive rebounds per game in the postseason. Rudy Gobert, in particular, has been a menace on the glass and pulled down eight offensive boards across his two regular-season matchups against Indiana. To their credit, the Pacers have been the best defensive rebounding team in the playoffs, grabbing 43.7 per game.</p><p>Both teams possess explosive guards who can take over a series. Haliburton has turned into prime Steve Nash since the calendar flipped to 2025; including playoff games, the Pacers guard has racked up an absurd 472 assists to just 78 turnovers. Edwards, meanwhile, was the regular season's second-leading scorer (29.5) and recorded nine games of 40-plus points.</p><h3>3. Thunder vs. Pacers</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786358/cropped_GettyImages-2190874544.jpg?ts=1747618736" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786358/w220xh124_GettyImages-2190874544.jpg?ts=1747618736 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786358/w320xh180_GettyImages-2190874544.jpg?ts=1747618736 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786358/w640xh360_GettyImages-2190874544.jpg?ts=1747618736 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786358/w768xh432_GettyImages-2190874544.jpg?ts=1747618736 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786358/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2190874544.jpg?ts=1747618736 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">A.J. Mast / National Basketball Association / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Key matchup:</strong> Jalen Williams versus Pascal Siakam</p><p>An Oklahoma City-Indiana matchup could be considered one of the smallest in terms of market size, but that doesn't take anything away from their quality of basketball. In a clash of contrasting styles, the Pacers rank first in offensive rating (117.3) out of all teams remaining in the playoffs, while the Thunder have the top defensive rating (101.6).</p><p>Oklahoma City won both regular-season matchups. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander dropped at least 30 points in each, while Indiana struggled to get a high-scoring effort from any player. The Pacers would need someone to take the reins offensively to match SGA. Siakam leads the team in playoff scoring at 18.8 points per game, but Tyrese Haliburton (17.5) and Myles Turner (16.5) are close behind.</p><p>The Thunder have intriguing matchups to defend Siakam. They used several different defenders in their final regular-season matchup, most notably Jalen Williams. Siakam would be the likely candidate to guard J-Dub, who averaged 17.6 points in the West semifinals.</p><h3>2. Thunder vs. Knicks</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763482/cropped_GettyImages-2121060225.jpg?ts=1735943013" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763482/w220xh124_GettyImages-2121060225.jpg?ts=1735943013 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763482/w320xh180_GettyImages-2121060225.jpg?ts=1735943013 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763482/w640xh360_GettyImages-2121060225.jpg?ts=1735943013 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763482/w768xh432_GettyImages-2121060225.jpg?ts=1735943013 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763482/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2121060225.jpg?ts=1735943013 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jesse D. Garrabrant / National Basketball Association / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Key matchup: </strong>Shai Gilgeous-Alexander versus Jalen Brunson</p><p>The Thunder and Knicks are led by ball-dominant point guards who can both score and distribute at will. Eyeballs will be on Gilgeous-Alexander and Brunson, who are both averaging at least 28 points and 6.5 assists in the postseason.</p><p>Thunder center Isaiah Hartenstein would be a player of interest. The former Knicks big man spent two seasons with New York, but Oklahoma City signed him away last summer. Hartenstein averaged career highs in points (11.2), rebounds (10.7), and assists (3.8) during the regular season. He ranks fourth in points and second in rebounds for his team in the playoffs.</p><p>A key contrast would be the minutes distribution. No player in the Knicks' starting lineup is averaging less than 35 minutes, while Oklahoma City's deep rotation has nine players averaging at least 11 minutes. Only Gilgeous-Alexander and Williams play as much as New York's starting five.</p><h3>1. Knicks vs. Timberwolves</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786089/cropped_GettyImages-2193738847.jpg?ts=1747488317" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786089/w220xh124_GettyImages-2193738847.jpg?ts=1747488317 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786089/w320xh180_GettyImages-2193738847.jpg?ts=1747488317 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786089/w640xh360_GettyImages-2193738847.jpg?ts=1747488317 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786089/w768xh432_GettyImages-2193738847.jpg?ts=1747488317 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786089/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2193738847.jpg?ts=1747488317 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">David Berding / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Key matchup: </strong>Julius Randle<strong> </strong>versus Karl-Anthony Towns</p><p>We rarely see two teams swap multiple-time All-Stars and face off in the NBA Finals a few months later. The trade involving Towns for Randle and Donte DiVincenzo has been an unmitigated success for both franchises; an NBA title would make it a championship-winning trade for one organization.</p><p>Towns' acquisition gave the Knicks an elite shooter, as the 29-year-old is knocking down 42% of his 3-pointers. Randle, meanwhile, gifted the T-Wolves some interior toughness and scoring, grabbing 2.1 offensive rebounds per game despite playing next to Rudy Gobert. The battle between Brunson and Edwards is another tantalizing matchup involving two of the league's best offensive guards. Brunson and Edwards are the postseason's sixth- and eighth-leading scorers, respectively.</p><p>How 37-year-old Mike Conley holds up would be a major storyline. New York and Minnesota split the season series 1-1. Conley scored 13 points on 5-of-9 shooting in the T-Wolves' victory, but he was held to three points and hit just one of his five field-goal attempts in the loss.</p>

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Ranking the 4 potential NBA Finals matchups

Denver Nuggets interim head coach David Adelman may not have the full-time job yet, but he does h...

<p>Denver Nuggets interim head coach David Adelman may not have the full-time job yet, but he does have the backing of his players.</p><p>"I love DA. I hope he's here next year," Denver forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30810" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30810">Aaron Gordon</a> said, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/45215850/nuggets-coach-david-adelman-earns-praise-backing-players">ESPN's Tim MacMahon</a>. "I hope he's our next coach. I hope he gets an entire training camp and a whole offseason to figure out his philosophy. DA's great."</p><p>Adelman became the interim coach after the Nuggets fired Mike Malone with just three games left in the regular season. Denver had lost four straight games before Adelman assumed the role, but he led the Nuggets to three consecutive victories and a first-round series win against the Los Angeles Clippers. The team also pushed a 68-win Thunder squad to a Game 7.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Adelman's effort impressed reigning MVP <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37604" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37604">Nikola Jokic</a>.</p><p>"You had three games to change something," Jokic said after Denver's Game 7 defeat to the Thunder on Sunday.</p><p>"I think he changed (the) energy. I think the guys were woken up a little. Guys had more energy. He made us believe in something, and we played good. We played a seven-game series against the best team in the NBA. We had (an) opportunity, we had chances. I think he did a really good job."</p><p>Adelman is considered a strong candidate to become the Nuggets' full-time head coach, sources told MacMahon.</p><p>"Decision-makers will make that decision," Adelman said. "Obviously blessed to have this opportunity to take the helm and lead this team. If I'm not back next year, I'll obviously never forget this. It's been an incredible experience. To have the buy-in from the guys was really special for me."</p><p>Nuggets governor Josh Kroenke was pleased with Adelman's performance.</p><p>"Outside of the championship, this is the most proud I've been because these guys have really rallied," he said.</p><p>Adelman, 44, spent eight campaigns as an assistant coach with the Nuggets before Malone's firing.</p><p>All five of Denver's starters are under contract for next season. Key reserve <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/347" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/347">Russell Westbrook</a> has a $3.5-million player option. </p>

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - MAY 5: Nikola Jokic (15) and Michael Porter Jr. (1) of the Denver Nuggets prepare to enter as Russell Westbrook (4) disputes a foul call to head coach David Adelman during the second quarter against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma on Monday, May 5, 2025.

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Nuggets support interim coach Adelman: 'He made us believe'

Phoenix Mercury guard Kahleah Copper will miss about four-to-six weeks following arthroscopic sur...

<p>Phoenix Mercury guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/27523" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/27523">Kahleah Copper</a> will miss about four-to-six weeks following arthroscopic surgery on her left knee, the team announced Saturday.</p><p>Copper played in Phoenix's first preseason game against the Las Vegas Aces earlier in May but didn't participate in practices over the final week of training camp, <a href="https://x.com/benpickman/status/1923824448227954889">Ben Pickman of The Athletic</a> reports.</p><p>The 30-year-old averaged 21.1 points per game last season, ranking third in the league. Copper also contributed 4.5 rebounds and 2.3 assists in 37 regular-season contests to earn her fourth consecutive All-Star nod.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 2021 Finals MVP was to become Phoenix's leader after the retirement of franchise legend <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///olybbw/players/23080" href="https://thescore.com/olybbw/players/23080">Diana Taurasi</a> and the departure of longtime center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/16585" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/16585">Brittney Griner</a>, who signed with the Atlanta Dream in the offseason.</p><p>Phoenix finished seventh last campaign with a 19-21 record before losing to the Minnesota Lynx in Round 1.</p><p>The Mercury open their 2025 season Saturday night against the Seattle Storm.</p>

PHOENIX, AZ - SEPTEMBER 5: Kahleah Copper #2 of the Phoenix Mercury drives to the basket during the game against the Washington Mystics on September 5, 2024 at Footprint Center in Phoenix, Arizona. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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Mercury's Copper out 4-6 weeks after undergoing knee surgery

The Boston Celtics might look a lot different next season, and it's not just because of Jayson Ta...

<p>The Boston Celtics might look a lot different next season, and it's not just because of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/52651" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/52651">Jayson Tatum</a>'s torn Achilles.</p><p>The Celtics were already pondering making significant changes this offseason before Tatum's injury, sources told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6363051/2025/05/17/celtics-nba-playoffs-knicks-loss-jayson-tatum/">The Athletic's Jay King</a>.</p><p>Boston's payroll is projected to reach roughly $500 million if it maintains its current roster. That figure includes a $270-million tax penalty for being above the salary-cap threshold for a third consecutive season and $225.2 million for just 11 players.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Now that Tatum is unlikely to play next season, there's the possibility of a more drastic shakeup, King notes. Jrue Holiday should interest several contending teams should Boston try to move him, sources told King. He's slated to make $32.4 million next season.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44888" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/44888">Kristaps Porzingis</a> has an expiring contract worth $30.7 million that should have value around the NBA, King notes. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/12" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/12">Al Horford</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30792" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30792">Luke Kornet</a> are impending free agents, while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/32925" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/32925">Derrick White</a> is set to earn $28.1 million in 2025-26.</p><p>However, the Celtics aren't expected to trade a starter in a salary dump, per King. They'll likely attempt to add young pieces to build around their current core, or what remains of it next season.</p><p>Boston won 60-plus games for the second straight campaign in 2024-25. However, the Celtics failed to become the first team to win back-to-back titles since the Golden State Warriors in 2017 and 2018, losing to the New York Knicks in six games in the Eastern Conference semifinals.</p>

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - APRIL 29: Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics and Jaylen Brown #7 look on in Game Five of the Eastern Conference First Round NBA Playoffs against the Orlando Magic at TD Garden on April 29, 2025 in Boston, Massachusetts.

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Report: Celtics were considering offseason changes before Tatum's injury

The Warriors' offense may have underwhelmed this season, but Steve Kerr has no intention of revam...

<p>The Warriors' offense may have underwhelmed this season, but Steve Kerr has no intention of revamping Golden State's attack as long as <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/148" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/148">Steph Curry</a> is playing.</p><p>"We have Steph Curry on our team, who is one of the greatest players of all time," Kerr <a href="https://x.com/warriors/status/1923785591755268575">said</a> Saturday. "He's also maybe the most unique superstar of all time. What makes him special is his on- and off-ball prowess.</p><p>"The best way to maximize Steph is to put him in pick-and-roll, and then to have him fly off screens. I think that's been proven, you know, over the last decade, how powerful that can be. ... He's our sun. This is a solar system, he's our sun."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Kerr added: "Any talk of 'Do we need to change our offensive system?' to me, is kind of laughable."</p><p>The Warriors ranked 17th and 16th this season in points per game (113.8) and offensive rating (114.2), respectively. Only Curry averaged at least 20 points.</p><p>Kerr's sputtering offense came to a grinding halt in the playoffs. The Warriors failed to score over 100 in five of their 12 postseason matches and only eclipsed 115 points once.</p><p>Curry, 37, injured his hamstring in Game 1 of Golden State's second-round series with the Minnesota Timberwolves. The two-time scoring champion missed the rest of the matchup, and the Warriors failed to win without him.</p><p>Curry is signed through the 2026-27 season after inking a one-year extension last summer.</p>

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - DECEMBER 21: Stephen Curry #30 interacts with head coach Steve Kerr of the Golden State Warriors in the fourth quarter of the game against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Target Center on December 21, 2024 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Warriors defeated the Timberwolves 113-103.

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Kerr: Calls to change Warriors' offense 'laughable'

Washington Mystics rookie Georgia Amoore will miss her inaugural WNBA season after having success...

<p>Washington Mystics rookie <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/171759" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/171759">Georgia Amoore</a> will miss her inaugural WNBA season after having successful surgery to repair a right ACL injury, the team <a href="https://mystics.wnba.com/news/mystics-injury-update-8">announced</a> Friday.</p><p>The sixth pick in the 2025 draft suffered the injury during a team practice at the end of April.</p><p>The two-time AP All-American played four seasons at Virginia Tech, where she made two All-ACC squads. She then played a fifth campaign at Kentucky, averaging 19.6 points, 6.9 assists, and 2.3 rebounds.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Mystics finished the 2024 season in ninth place with a 14-26 record. They'll begin the 2025 campaign Friday night against the Atlanta Dream.</p>

WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 28: Georgia Amoore #8 of the Washington Mystics poses for a portrait during WNBA Media Day on April 28, 2025 at CareFirst Arena in Washington, DC. 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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Mystics' Amoore to miss 2025 season after undergoing knee surgery

The Golden State Warriors are expected to extend forward Jonathan Kuminga his $7.9-million qualif...

<p>The Golden State Warriors are expected to extend forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96094" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96094">Jonathan Kuminga</a> his $7.9-million qualifying offer before seeking a sign-and-trade this offseason, sources told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6358151/2025/05/15/warriors-steph-curry-jimmy-butler-future/">The Athletic's Anthony Slater and Marcus Thompson II</a>.</p><p>Kuminga is in the final season of his four-year, $24.85-million rookie deal and is scheduled to become a restricted free agent this summer.</p><p>The 22-year-old is coming off an up-and-down campaign. He averaged 15.3 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 2.2 assists in 47 regular-season games. However, head coach Steve Kerr took Kuminga out of the rotation for the majority of the first round versus the Houston Rockets; Kuminga racked up four DNPs in Round 1 and played only 50 minutes in the seven-game series.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>A hamstring injury to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/148" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/148">Steph Curry</a> in Game 1 of the second round against the Minnesota Timberwolves gave the former lottery pick an opportunity for extended playing time. After a seven-point night in the first game, Kuminga rattled off 18-, 30-, 23-, and 26-point outings in the next four contests.</p><p>Kuminga said at the Warriors' season-ending media availability that he doesn't know what the future holds.</p><p>"I'm just grateful to be here," Kuminga said, according to <a href="https://x.com/NotoriousOHM/status/1923126790375039416">ESPN's Ohm Youngmisuk</a>. "Still got a long summer to figure things out."</p><p>Kuminga added that he has a good relationship with Kerr despite their "ups and downs," per <a href="https://x.com/NotoriousOHM/status/1923127227987734914">Youngmisuk</a>. </p><p>"There are certainly things he has to improve on, but he's 22 years old," Warriors owner Joe Lacob told Slater and Thompson. "He's got a hell of a lot of potential, and I would think he would be a part of our future plans. Now we'll have to see how the market all shakes out. We have a lot of evaluating to do."</p><p>Lacob is a big supporter of Kuminga and was reportedly a persuasive influence in the organization's decision to draft him seventh overall in 2021.</p><p>The Warriors have $171 million in projected salary for next season with a first-apron threshold of $195.9 million, per <a href="https://x.com/BobbyMarks42/status/1922870389526466645">ESPN's Bobby Marks</a>. Most of that money is tied up in Curry, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2809" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2809">Jimmy Butler</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2982" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2982">Draymond Green</a>.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37868" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37868">Gary Payton II</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37915" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37915">Kevon Looney</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102773" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102773">Gui Santos</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121721" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121721">Quinten Post</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102818" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102818">Pat Spencer</a> (restricted), and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60413" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60413">Kevin Knox</a> are expected to hit the free-agent market this summer.</p>

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - MAY 10: Jonathan Kuminga #00 of the Golden State Warriors dunks the ball against the Minnesota Timberwolves during the second quarter in Game Three of the Western Conference Second Round NBA Playoffs at Chase Center on May 10, 2025 in San Francisco, California.

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Report: Warriors, Kuminga will explore sign-and-trade

Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr believes his team would have been title contenders wi...

<p>Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr believes his team would have been title contenders with a healthy <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/148" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/148">Steph Curry</a>.</p><p>"I know we had a shot. I know we could have gone the distance," Kerr lamented after the Warriors were ousted from the postseason thanks to a 121-110 defeat in Game 5 on Wednesday night, per <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/45157360/kerr-warriors-gone-distance-curry-healthy">ESPN's Ohm Youngmisuk</a>.</p><p>"Maybe we wouldn't have, but it doesn't matter. Again, everything in the playoffs is about who stays healthy and who gets hot. Are you playing well at the right time?"</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Curry injured his hamstring early in the second quarter of Game 1 and was sidelined for the remainder of the series.</p><p>The Warriors had a 10-point lead when he exited the game and managed to hold on to a 99-88 victory. Golden State proceeded to lose four consecutive contests by a combined 47 points.</p><p>The two-time MVP was cleared for light on-court workouts and was scheduled to be re-evaluated ahead of a potential Game 6.</p><p>Golden State traded for star wing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2809" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2809">Jimmy Butler</a> at the trade deadline and immediately turned into one of the NBA's best teams, going 20-7 with a net rating of plus-9.9 - the third-best mark in the league - after the All-Star break. </p><p>Butler and veteran forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2982" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2982">Draymond Green</a> claimed the Warriors were title contenders shortly after the blockbuster deadline acquisition.</p><p>"I think I still have that belief, wholeheartedly," Green said Wednesday. "That has not changed one bit. And you retool, you do whatever it is that you got to do to take that next step and give yourself a better chance."</p><p>Kerr admitted that Butler was dealing with a tailbone injury sustained from a fall in Round 1 against the Houston Rockets. "I think he was definitely compromised through all series. I think the injury in Houston definitely impacted him. He's been playing through pain."</p><p>The Warriors' starting unit is all under contract for next season, but former top-10 pick <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96094" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96094">Jonathan Kuminga</a> will become a restricted free agent this summer. Golden State also sent its 2025 first-round pick to the Miami Heat as part of the Butler trade.</p>

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 05: Head coach Steve Kerr of the Golden State Warriors pats Stephen Curry #30 on the back after being substituted out against the Sacramento Kings in the second quarter at Chase Center on January 05, 2025 in San Francisco, California.

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Kerr: Warriors 'could have gone the distance' with healthy Curry

The NBA fined Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green $50,000 for "making an inappropriate c...

<p>The NBA fined Golden State Warriors forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2982" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2982">Draymond Green</a> $50,000 for "making an inappropriate comment that questions the integrity of game officials," the league <a href="https://x.com/NBAPR/status/1922724863510237252">announced</a> Wednesday.</p><p>The incident occurred during Golden State's 102-97 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves in Saturday's Game 3 when Green referenced the 5.5 closing spread, according to <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1922725215345287533">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.</p><p>The veteran forward fouled out of the contest but was seen making a hand gesture and seemingly discussing the final betting line while the Warriors trailed by six points with just over 15 seconds remaining.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Draymond Green reportedly mouthing “spread is 5.5” to teammates with 15 seconds left.<br><br>The Warriors hit a 3 on the next possession to cover and lose by 5 🤔 <a href="https://t.co/fr0nVESFOU">pic.twitter.com/fr0nVESFOU</a></p>— Arena - The Sports Super App (@arenasportsapp) <a href="https://twitter.com/arenasportsapp/status/1921415949338480890?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 11, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Golden State hit a three and lost by five points to cover the spread.</p><p>The fine is Green's first league-mandated punishment since his 12-game suspension in December 2023 for his on-court altercation with Minnesota Timberwolves center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30615" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30615">Rudy Gobert</a>.</p><p>The T-Wolves hold a 3-1 series lead and have an opportunity to end the Warriors' season on Wednesday night. Game 5 is scheduled for a 9:30 p.m. ET tipoff.</p>

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - MAY 12: Draymond Green of Warriors warms up before the NBA Playoffs game 4 between Minnesota Timberwolves and Golden State Warriors at Chase Center on May 12, 2025 in San Francisco, California, United States.

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Draymond fined $50K for questioning 'integrity of game officials'

Nike co-founder Phil Knight won't be buying the Portland Trail Blazers.  "Five years ago, when I ...

<p>Nike co-founder Phil Knight won't be buying the Portland Trail Blazers.</p><p>"Five years ago, when I was a younger man, I had great interest in being a part of the Portland Trail Blazers franchise," Knights said Wednesday, per <a href="https://x.com/MikeVorkunov/status/1922627269836623881">Mike Vorkunov of The Athletic</a>. "However, at my current age, I can confirm that I no longer have interest."</p><p>The Trail Blazers <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3285326" href="https://thescore.com/news/3285326">announced</a> Tuesday that a formal process to sell the franchise was underway. The organization has been controlled by the estate of late owner Paul Allen, who died in 2018. His sister, Jody Allen, is the trustee of the Allen family estate.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Allen, a co-founder of Microsoft, bought the Blazers for $70 million in 1988. The team ranks as the NBA's 23rd-most valuable franchise at $3.6 billion, according to <a href="https://x.com/novy_williams/status/1922339134418440286">Sportico</a>.</p><p>Knight, a Portland native, attended the University of Oregon in nearby Eugene and is the wealthiest Oregonian with a net worth of $35.4 billion, according to <a href="https://www.forbes.com/billionaires/">Forbes</a>.</p><p>The 87-year-old attempted to buy the Blazers in 2022, making a $2-billion offer with Los Angeles Dodgers co-owner Alan Smolinisky. However, Allen's estate rejected the bid.</p>

PORTLAND, OR - NOVEMBER 26: Nike co-founder Phil Knight observes pre-game in the championship game of the Victory Bracket at the PK80-Phil Knight Invitational between the North Carolina Tar Heels and Michigan State Spartans on November 26, 2017, at Moda Center in Portland, OR.

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Nike co-founder Phil Knight rules out bid to buy Blazers

The New York Knicks are just one win away from reaching the Eastern Conference finals for the fir...

<p>The New York Knicks are just one win away from reaching the Eastern Conference finals for the first time since 2000 after their 121-113 comeback victory over the Boston Celtics in Game 4 on Monday.</p><p>The Knicks erased a 14-point deficit in the third quarter en route to taking a 3-1 series lead, outscoring the Celtics 37-23 in the pivotal frame.</p><p>Only 13 teams (4%) have ever come back from a 3-1 series deficit, according to <a href="https://x.com/AdamZagoria/status/1922111856811839798">Adam Zagoria of Forbes Sports</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45223" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/45223">Jalen Brunson</a> led the way for New York, pouring in 39 points and 12 assists in the win. He scored or assisted on 25 of his team's points in the third.</p><p>"Tough loss, tough loss. Wanted to come here and get both, and Brunson, Brunson was unreal tonight. Special player," Celtics big man <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44888" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/44888">Kristaps Porzingis</a> said, per <a href="https://x.com/IanBegley/status/1922124764484681947">SNYtv's Ian Begley</a>.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37817" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37817">Karl-Anthony Towns</a> also sang Brunson's praises.</p><p>"Honestly, do we expect anything less? ... It gets to the fourth quarter, and he's a bad, bad man," Towns told reporters, per <a href="https://x.com/FredKatz/status/1922132608739168731">Fred Katz of The Athletic</a>.</p><p>The Knicks' trio of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37817" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37817">Towns</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37879" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37879">Mikal Bridges</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/46480" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/46480">OG Anunoby</a> combined for 66 points.</p><p>New York outscored Boston 64-32 in the paint and was up 15-9 in second-chance points.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/52651" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/52651">Jayson Tatum</a> had a game-high 42 points but exited late in the fourth quarter with an apparent right leg injury. He was unable to put any weight on his leg as he was carried off the floor.</p><p>Head coach Joe Mazzulla said Tatum will receive an MRI on Tuesday, according to <a href="https://x.com/GwashburnGlobe/status/1922117182986596530">Gary Washburn of the Boston Globe</a>.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/32925" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/32925">Derrick White</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45455" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/45455">Jaylen Brown</a> recorded 23 and 20 points, respectively.</p><p>Game 5 will be played in Boston on Wednesday at 7 p.m. ET.</p>

NEW YORK, NY - MAY 12: Jalen Brunson #11 of the New York Knicks celebrates during the game against the Boston Celtics during Round 2 Game 4 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs on May 12, 2025 at Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Knicks on verge of ECF after 3rd comeback win vs. Celtics

Cooper Flagg will be selected with the first overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.  That's perhaps ...

<p>Cooper Flagg will be selected with the first overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.</p><p>That's perhaps the only certainty ahead of Monday's draft lottery in Chicago, and for good reason.</p><p>Flagg, 18, had a stellar season at Duke and became one of four freshmen to win The Associated Press' men's national player of the year in the award's 64-year history.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>He's a versatile 6-foot-9 talent who's both the youngest player in the draft and the most complete prospect courtesy of elite athleticism and top-tier playmaking skills. With a 7-foot-1 wingspan, Flagg could play multiple roles in the NBA and fits the profile of a franchise-altering star at the next level.</p><p>With the order of the top 14 picks to be determined Monday ahead of the first night of the draft on June 25 at Brooklyn's Barclays Center, let's look at where Flagg will most likely end up.</p><h3>Who will draft Flagg 1st overall?</h3><p>First, some math: To accurately predict which team might win the chance to select Flagg, one helpful indicator is past draft lotteries.</p><p>The NBA introduced the lottery in 1985 and overhauled it in 1990 with a weighted system to give clubs with the worst records the best chance at the No. 1 pick (25%). In 2019, the league altered the lottery again for the 2019 draft to discourage tanking, awarding the bottom-three teams the same odds (14%).</p><p>Since 1990, only one squad outside the bottom 10 has landed the top selection (Orlando Magic, 1993). And in the last 10 drafts, just twice has the first pick gone to a franchise that didn't finish among the league's bottom three.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="NBA LOTTERY HISTORY (1990-2024)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-nl5ej" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/nl5ej/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="1459" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>All of this gives us a clearer idea of where Flagg could land and which teams we should spotlight as a potential fit for the reigning national player of the year.</p><p>Here's a look at the clubs with the best odds of securing Flagg's coveted services:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Odds for 1st overall pick " aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-d0xEi" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/d0xEi/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="686" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Now, let's count down the 10 most likely lottery winners and explore how the versatile star-in-the-making could make an immediate impact with those teams.</p><h3>Flagg hopefuls</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="GRADES: BLAZERS (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-Z5C4M" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/Z5C4M/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Portland placed 16th in pace last season despite having a stable full of thoroughbreds. As a result of playing against set defenses, the Blazers owned the 22nd-ranked offense. Flagg's ability to grab a rebound - he ranked ninth in the ACC with 7.5 boards per game - and lead the fastbreak would unleash the likes of Scoot Henderson and Shaedon Sharpe, generating easy scoring chances. Flagg also uses those situations to hunt for mismatches and get to the free-throw line, where he shoots 84%.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="GRADES: BLAZERS (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-4njyC" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/4njyC/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Houston's offense got stuck in the mud at times last season, particularly with shot creation from the perimeter. The Rockets ranked 22nd in drives per game (44.9) and 25th in field-goal percentage within five feet (61.5%). Having Flagg play off Alperen Sengun in the post would create opportunities for cuts and mismatches, alleviating some of the strain on Ime Udoka's offense. Flagg also has experience throwing high-low passes with 7-foot-2 Khaman Maluach at Duke, which would translate nicely next to Sengun.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="FLAGG: SPURS" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-vW6Ij" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/vW6Ij/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Double-big lineups have made a resurgence after small ball dominated most of the previous decade. Pairing Flagg alongside Victor Wembanyama would be a defensive cheat code, with Flagg posting the third-best defensive rating of any high-major player in the nation, trailing the Houston duo of Mylik Wilson and Joseph Tugler. While Flagg's off-ball defense is exceptional, he'll need to improve his on-ball defense, which is solid but not at the same level.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="FLAGG: RAPTORS" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-zLG41" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/zLG41/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Toronto has tried to anoint Scottie Barnes as its next star. He's a skilled player and a potential multi-time All-Star but not a No. 1 option. You can't give him the ball and ask him to get a basket at will. As a result, the Raptors placed dead last in isolation possessions at only 4.7 per game and 29th in offensive rating in clutch possessions in 2024-25. Flagg has the skill set to be that main option. He had the highest offensive rating (123) of any high-major collegiate player with a usage rate of at least 27%.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="FLAGG: NETS" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-B99pn" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/B99pn/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Brooklyn lacked playmaking this past campaign. Yes, they had talented scorers, but the Nets were ninth in isolation frequency and 21st in assist ratio. Flagg's 26.8% assist rate is the second-highest of the projected lottery, behind Dylan Harper (27.1%), who was the only source of creation for a terrible Rutgers offense. At Duke, Flagg was the catalyst behind <a href="https://kenpom.com/index.php?s=RankAdjOE">KenPom</a>'s top-ranked offense, with his willingness to move the ball being the foundation of the Blue Devils' system.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="FLAGG: 76ERS" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-58UnW" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/58UnW/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>The 76ers getting the top pick for a third time in nine years would be an interesting outcome. On the surface, Philly already has its No. 1 option, a young and dynamic ball-hander, as well as a creative wing. However, Paul George's dramatic fall from grace will unlikely improve with age. The Sixers could slot Flagg into that true 3-and-D role and bring him along slowly. He was lights out from behind the arc in the latter half of the season, knocking down 44% of his 3-point attempts in conference play.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="FLAGG: PELICANS" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-CaGlw" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/CaGlw/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Zion Williamson has played in just 214 games over his six NBA seasons, but his physical gifts remain tantalizing. Another franchise would surely give up valuable assets to try to rehabilitate his career. Apart from a fluke ankle sprain in the ACC tourney, Flagg hasn't dealt with any major injuries, and his medicals should be clean - a welcome change for a franchise plagued with health issues. Flagg is already a more polished defender than Williamson and could seamlessly step into that point-forward role.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="FLAGG: HORNETS" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-mnCgQ" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/mnCgQ/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>We've waxed poetic about Flagg's offensive capabilities, but his greatest impact would be on defense in Charlotte. The Hornets have been a bottom-10 defensive squad for four consecutive seasons: their core players struggle to consistently stay in front of people. Fortunately, Flagg's help-side defense is perhaps his most NBA-ready attribute. He ranked sixth in the ACC in shot-blocking and 12th in steals - both numbers could've been higher since he consistently blew up actions from the weak side.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="FLAGG: WIZARDS" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-CEprx" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/CEprx/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>The Wizards would be a unique situation for Flagg. Jordan Poole, AJ Johnson, and Bub Carrington are inconsistent but have all shown glimpses of high-level playmaking. Pairing them with a true play-finisher like Flagg could instantly transform their offense. Additionally, Alex Sarr plays like a power forward trapped in a center's body, struggling to finish around the rim despite his 7-foot size. He converted just 60% of his shots within five feet and 29.9% from 5-10 feet this campaign. Flagg, on the other hand, shoots 65.4% around the basket thanks to his elite touch and 7-foot-1 wingspan.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="FLAGG: JAZZ" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-Uma2X" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/Uma2X/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Flagg is most likely to get on-ball reps in Utah since Collin Sexton and Keyonte George aren't long-term options. Will Hardy, known for his creativity, is now free to get imaginative following his contract extension. For example, a Lauri Markkanen and Cooper Flagg pick-and-roll would be fascinating. Using Flagg's size to hunt post-up mismatches, similar to how the Indiana Pacers use Pascal Siakam, could be another interesting wrinkle.</p>

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