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NBA News

Combined summaries and individual breaking-news reports, all in one recency-first feed.

Monday, July 21, 2025

Dalton Knecht's Summer League Struggles Raise Concerns for Second-Year Jump with Lakers

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Dalton Knecht, a second-year player for the Lakers, had a challenging summer league, failing to build momentum after previously struggling in the California Classic. In Las Vegas, he averaged just 10.3 points on a low 27.9% shooting, which observers note does not inspire confidence for a significant Year 2 improvement within a veteran-heavy Lakers rotation. His current performance contrasts sharply with his past college scoring prowess and the high expectations surrounding him as a lottery-projected pick who ultimately fell to No. 17 in the draft, with some attributing his decline since a botched trade involving the Hornets.

Josh Giddey's Restricted Free Agency and Ongoing Contract Talks with Chicago Bulls

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Josh Giddey, a restricted free agent, is currently in protracted contract negotiations with the Chicago Bulls after being traded from the Oklahoma City Thunder. Following a challenging playoff performance, Giddey experienced a significant resurgence with the Bulls, particularly after assuming a more central role, where he averaged impressive post-All-Star break numbers of 21.2 points, 10.7 rebounds, 9.3 assists, and 1.5 steals. Despite this strong finish, his representation is reportedly seeking an annual salary of $30 million, while the Bulls' offers are closer to $20 million, a gap fueled by the current soft market for free agents. Although negotiations are ongoing, Giddey is widely expected to ultimately re-sign with Chicago.

Jonathan Kuminga's Restricted Free Agency and Unclear Future with Golden State Warriors

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Jonathan Kuminga, a restricted free agent, faces an uncertain future with the Golden State Warriors due to inconsistent playing time and protracted contract extension talks. Despite averaging 15.8 points and 4.7 rebounds over the last two seasons and showing increased production when starting, his development as a two-way player has been debated, leading to DNP-CDs in crucial playoff games. Kuminga has publicly stated his ambition to be a primary option and multi-time All-Star, regardless of the team. While the Warriors initially sought significant trade compensation and are hesitant to offer a long-term deal exceeding $25 million annually, a shorter-term contract that could facilitate a trade by January 2026 is currently considered the most probable outcome for the young forward.

Cam Thomas' Restricted Free Agency Standoff with Brooklyn Nets and Response to 'Empty Calories' Label

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Cam Thomas, a restricted free agent, is currently seeking a new contract with the Brooklyn Nets, although the team has reportedly not yet engaged in significant talks despite his expressed desire to re-sign. Having led the Nets in scoring for the past two seasons, averaging 22.9 points per game with strong efficiency, Thomas believes his market value is comparable to players earning over $30 million annually. He recently publicly pushed back against the 'empty calories ball hog' perception from NBA analysts, defending his play by highlighting the Nets' record before his injury, his assist numbers, and the frequent double-teams he faces from opponents, while the Nets appear to be leveraging the current soft free-agent market.

Quentin Grimes' Restricted Free Agency and Contract Negotiations with the Philadelphia 76ers

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Quentin Grimes, a restricted free agent, emerged as a key offensive contributor for the Philadelphia 76ers last season after being acquired in a trade. He demonstrated significant growth, averaging 21.9 points, 5.2 rebounds, 4.5 assists, and 1.5 steals post-trade deadline, showcasing improved playmaking and rim attacking. While Grimes is reportedly seeking an annual salary above $20 million, the Sixers, led by President Daryl Morey, are actively working to retain him, with a multi-year agreement (at least three seasons) expected despite ongoing negotiations over the exact financial terms.

Veteran Sharpshooter Doug McDermott Signs One-Year, $3.6 Million Deal to Return to Sacramento Kings

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Veteran forward Doug McDermott has officially agreed to a guaranteed one-year, $3.6 million free-agent contract, marking his return to the Sacramento Kings for what will be his fourth stint with the team and his 12th NBA season. This agreement, confirmed by his agent, positions the Kings over the salary cap but below the luxury tax line, filling their 15 roster spots. Known as a premier sharpshooter, the 6'6" wing boasts a career three-point percentage of 41.1%, and last season with Sacramento, he averaged 3.5 points on 42.5% overall shooting and an impressive 43.6% from beyond the arc in 42 games while playing just over eight minutes per contest. McDermott is expected to provide valuable veteran shooting depth off the bench for coach Doug Christie.

Jonas Valančiūnas Confirms Commitment to Denver Nuggets for Upcoming Season

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Jonas Valančiūnas has confirmed his intention to honor his contract with the Denver Nuggets for the upcoming NBA season. Despite previously mulling a return to Europe, specifically with Greek club Panathinaikos on a three-year, $36 million deal that would have required a buyout, Valančiūnas stated he is 'fully committed' to the Nuggets and aims to compete for a championship. The veteran center, who was traded to the Nuggets from the Sacramento Kings, is expected to serve as a quality backup big for Nikola Jokic, significantly improving Denver's rebounding capabilities. Valančiūnas remains under contract for next season and has a $10 million non-guaranteed year for the following season.

Reed Sheppard Shows Readiness for Major Leap in Limited Summer League Action

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Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard participated in summer league to make his case for a bigger role next season, despite being buried on the depth chart. The former No. 3 overall pick, who was a summer league star among first-year players last year, averaged 23.0 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 2.5 assists in just two games before being shut down. His high-level performance in limited action indicates he is poised for a significant jump in his second year.

Kyle Filipowski Named Vegas Summer League MVP After Dominant Offensive Performance

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Utah Jazz forward Kyle Filipowski was named the MVP of the Las Vegas Summer League, concluding a dominant showing. The second-year forward from Duke averaged an impressive 29.3 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 2.3 assists over three games, leading all players who participated in at least three games in scoring. This strong performance, building on his rookie season where he played in 72 games and started 27, suggests significant development for the Jazz player, positioning him as the best second-year player in the event.

Naji Marshall Offers Insight on Cooper Flagg's Summer League Performance and His Own Role with the Mavericks

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Mavericks forward Naji Marshall provided an honest assessment of Cooper Flagg's summer league performance, acknowledging the significant pressure on the No. 1 overall pick and expressing his excitement to play with Flagg and witness his progression. Marshall observed that Flagg, who scored 31 points in his second game, appeared to overcome initial jitters. Reflecting on his own contributions, Marshall had his most productive professional season last year in Dallas, averaging 13.2 points and 4.8 rebounds per game while starting 31 games and shooting a career-best 50.8% from the field, though his minutes are anticipated to decrease with Flagg's arrival.

Trae Young's Max Extension Prospects with Atlanta Hawks Under Scrutiny

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Trae Young is eligible for a four-year, $228.6 million max extension from the Atlanta Hawks this offseason, following the team's roster retooling that includes new additions like Kristaps Porzingis, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, and Luke Kennard, along with the return of Jalen Johnson. Despite Young's All-Star performance last season, where he averaged 24.2 points and a league-high 11.6 assists, concerns persist regarding his league-high 355 turnovers and defensive vulnerabilities, leading to questions about whether he merits a full max contract. While an extension is expected, a shorter-term agreement, such as a two-year deal after his current option, is a potential option to allow both parties to reassess the situation, though the Hawks face the risk of Young declining his player option and entering free agency if a deal isn't secured by June 30, 2026.

Kevin Durant's Expected Extension with Houston Rockets

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Kevin Durant, recently acquired by the Houston Rockets, is eligible for a two-year, $122.1 million extension. Houston was a preferred destination for Durant during his trade discussions, and he has publicly praised the Rockets organization, indicating that an extension is certain and expected to be finalized by next June. The primary point of negotiation is whether Durant will accept a slightly reduced amount, potentially around $10 million less than the maximum, to help the Rockets manage their salary cap and sustain their competitiveness as a contender.

De'Aaron Fox's Potential Max Extension with San Antonio Spurs Examined Amidst Backcourt Adjustments

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De'Aaron Fox is eligible for a four-year, $229 million max extension from the San Antonio Spurs starting August 3. While his extension was initially seen as a certainty following his trade to San Antonio, the team's subsequent acquisition of promising point guard Dylan Harper and the presence of Stephon Castle have introduced new considerations regarding backcourt fit. The Spurs may explore offering Fox a shorter, two-year contract to maintain flexibility and allow him to pursue a higher percentage max deal in the future, although Fox may prefer the security of a longer agreement. Despite these discussions, the most probable outcome remains Fox signing the four-year max extension with the Spurs.

Ben Simmons Draws Free Agency Interest from Multiple Teams Despite Recent Struggles

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Former All-Star Ben Simmons has reportedly garnered interest from several teams, including the Boston Celtics, New York, Sacramento, and the Phoenix Suns, since free agency began. The Celtics, facing salary constraints, could only offer him a veteran minimum contract, which he might accept after being bought out of his previous deal. Simmons, who turned 29, averaged 5.0 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 5.6 assists in 22.0 minutes over 51 games last season with the Nets and Clippers, and has been noted for his strong defense and facilitation, but also for his lack of shooting, having attempted only 5 career three-pointers and none since the 2022-23 season.

Ex-NBA Star Kenyon Martin Claims Draymond Green Not Among Top-200 All-Time Players

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Former NBA forward Kenyon Martin controversially stated on the "Gil's Arena" podcast that Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green is not among the top-200 players in league history, specifically when evaluating individual play beyond his four NBA championships. Despite Martin's stance, Green's distinguished career with the Warriors includes four championships, four All-Star selections, the 2016-17 Defensive Player of the Year award, two All-NBA team selections, and nine All-Defensive team honors, as he enters his 14th year in the league.

Sunday, July 20, 2025

Chris Paul Reportedly Rejoining Los Angeles Clippers for Likely Final Season

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Chris Paul is reportedly signing a one-year deal to rejoin the Los Angeles Clippers, marking what is anticipated to be his 21st and final NBA season. The 12-time All-Star, who turned 40 in May, is returning to the team where he previously played from 2011-17, following a productive 2024-25 season with the San Antonio Spurs. He is expected to take on a bench role with the Clippers, who have recently added players like Bradley Beal, Brook Lopez, and John Collins.

Marcus Smart to Sign with Los Angeles Lakers After Washington Wizards Buyout

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Marcus Smart, a former beloved Boston Celtics guard, intends to sign with the Los Angeles Lakers after reaching a buyout agreement with the Washington Wizards. Smart, who spent nine seasons with the Celtics and was known for his high-energy play, will join the Lakers on a reported two-year, $11 million deal. This move follows an injury-plagued season split between the Memphis Grizzlies and the Wizards, where he was traded after departing Boston in the Kristaps Porzingis deal. His decision to join the rival Lakers is seen as a significant development, adding extra intrigue to future Celtics-Lakers matchups and providing Smart, who will turn 32 in October, an opportunity to reenergize his career within a competitive Western Conference team.

Quentin Grimes Negotiating Contract with 76ers Amidst Restricted Free Agency

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Quentin Grimes, a restricted free agent, is currently negotiating his contract with the Philadelphia 76ers, where he thrived after being traded. Although his situation is described as the least contentious among current restricted free agents, the primary points of discussion are the financial terms and the length of the contract, with Philadelphia reportedly seeking a deal of at least three years. Grimes is seen as a potential piece for the 76ers' future alongside players like Tyrese Maxey, Jared McCain, and VJ Edgecombe, with a resolution expected closer to training camp.

Josh Giddey's Contract Dispute in Restricted Free Agency with Bulls

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Josh Giddey is facing a contract dispute in restricted free agency despite his impressive performance for the Chicago Bulls last season, where he averaged 21.2 points, 10.7 rebounds, and 9.3 assists post-All-Star break as the team went 17-10 in that stretch. While Giddey and his representatives are seeking approximately $30 million per season, the Bulls' management is aiming for a more tradable contract closer to $20 million annually. Questions persist around the league regarding Giddey's defensive capabilities and his need for the ball, which raise concerns about his role as a top-two option on a contending team.

Cam Thomas' Public Standoff Amidst Restricted Free Agency with Nets

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Cam Thomas is embroiled in a public and financial standoff as a restricted free agent, notably ranting against Zach Lowe for comments on league consensus regarding his play. Financially, Thomas seeks a contract in the range of $30 million annually, while the Brooklyn Nets are proposing closer to $20 million per year. Despite the Nets having available cap space, the league's perception of Thomas is impacting his ability to secure the desired contract, and the Nets are reportedly looking for a contract that remains easily tradable in the future, with a resolution not expected soon.