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>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31256562/related

Capture the Flagg: Where No. 1 pick might land, and how he could fit

Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, and De'Andre Hunter returned for the Cleveland Cavaliers' 126-104 Ga...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/70243" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/70243">Darius Garland</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96054" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96054">Evan Mobley</a><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53037" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53037">,</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53037" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53037">De'Andre Hunter</a> returned for the Cleveland Cavaliers' 126-104 Game 3 victory over the Indiana Pacers on Friday.</p><p>Garland had been out with a toe injury since Game 3 of Cleveland's opening-round matchup versus the Miami Heat, while Mobley and Hunter were sidelined for the Game 2 defeat against Indiana with an ankle and a thumb issue, respectively.</p><p>Garland recorded 10 points and three assists on Saturday. Mobley had an 18-point double-double, and Hunter tallied eight points and five rebounds in the win.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Cleveland had attempted to fill the void in its starting unit in Game 2 with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44986" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/44986">Dean Wade</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53038" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53038">Ty Jerome</a>. The duo combined for five points on 2-of-18 shooting in the loss.</p><p>The Cavaliers entered the playoffs with the best record in the East after amassing 64 regular-season victories. They easily dispatched the Heat in a first-round sweep but dropped their first two games to the Pacers in Round 2.</p><p>Game 4 is scheduled for Sunday at 8 p.m. ET.</p>

CLEVELAND, OH - APRIL 2: Evan Mobley #4 and Darius Garland #10 of the Cleveland Cavaliers celebrate during the game against the New York Knicks on April 2, 2025 at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in Cleveland, Ohio. 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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Cavs get Garland, Mobley, Hunter back for pivotal Game 3 victory

Former Indiana bench boss Mike Woodson has agreed to become the Sacramento Kings' associate head ...

<p>Former Indiana bench boss Mike Woodson has agreed to become the Sacramento Kings' associate head coach, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1920247239663870274">ESPN's Shams Charania</a> on Wednesday.</p><p>Woodson amassed an 82-53 record in his four seasons in charge of Indiana. However, his Hoosiers failed to make the NCAA Tournament in both 2024 and 2025.</p><p>The 67-year-old announced he'd leave his alma mater in February and was eventually replaced by Darian DeVries from West Virginia.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Woodson has plenty of experience in the Association. After an 11-year playing career, he spent 22 seasons on an NBA sideline, split between the Milwaukee Bucks, Cleveland Cavaliers, Philadelphia 76ers, Detroit Pistons, Atlanta Hawks, New York Knicks, and Los Angeles Clippers. </p><p>Woodson was Atlanta's head coach from 2005 to 2010 and was in charge of New York from 2012 to 2014. He tallied a 315-365 record in his 680 games as an NBA head coach.</p><p>Woodson is Doug Christie's first full-time hire since he was made head coach. The Kings recently gave Christie a multi-year contract after he took over the team in December following Sacramento's dismissal of former Coach of the Year Mike Brown.</p><p>The Kings also have a new general manager after the organization parted ways with Monty McNair shortly after the season ended. McNair was replaced by longtime Knicks executive Scott Perry.</p>

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - MARCH 13: Head Basketball Coach Mike Woodson of the Indiana Hoosiers reacts during the second half of a second round game of the Big Ten Men's Basketball Tournament against the Oregon Ducks at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on March 13, 2025 in Indianapolis, Indiana. The Oregon Ducks won the game 72-59.

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Report: Kings hire Mike Woodson as lead assistant

The NBA announced its schedule for the second round of the postseason after the Golden State Warr...

<p>The NBA announced its schedule for the second round of the postseason after the Golden State Warriors prevailed over the Houston Rockets<strong> </strong>in Game 7 of their opening-round series.</p><p>The semifinal round began Sunday with the Indiana Pacers shocking the top-seeded Cleveland Cavaliers on the road in Game 1.</p><p>Here's a complete breakdown of the upcoming schedule:</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Eastern Conference</h3><p><strong>Cleveland Cavaliers (1) vs. Indiana Pacers (4)</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Game</th>
<th>Date</th>
<th>Time (ET)</th>
<th>Home</th>
<th>Away</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td>May 4</td>
<td>6 p.m.</td>
<td>Cavaliers</td>
<td>Pacers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td>May 6</td>
<td>7 p.m.</td>
<td>Cavaliers</td>
<td>Pacers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td>May 9</td>
<td>7:30 p.m.</td>
<td>Pacers</td>
<td>Cavaliers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td>May 11</td>
<td>8 p.m.</td>
<td>Pacers</td>
<td>Cavaliers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5*</td>
<td>May 13</td>
<td>TBD</td>
<td>Cavaliers</td>
<td>Pacers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6*</td>
<td>May 15</td>
<td>TBD</td>
<td>Pacers</td>
<td>Cavaliers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7*</td>
<td>May 18</td>
<td>TBD</td>
<td>Cavaliers</td>
<td>Pacers</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><strong>Boston Celtics (2) vs. New York Knicks (3)</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Game</th>
<th>Date</th>
<th>Time (ET)</th>
<th>Home</th>
<th>Away</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td>May 5</td>
<td>7 p.m.</td>
<td>Celtics</td>
<td>Knicks</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td>May 7</td>
<td>7 p.m.</td>
<td>Celtics</td>
<td>Knicks</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td>May 10</td>
<td>3:30 p.m.</td>
<td>Knicks</td>
<td>Celtics</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td>May 12</td>
<td>7:30 p.m.</td>
<td>Knicks</td>
<td>Celtics</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5*</td>
<td>May 14</td>
<td>TBD</td>
<td>Celtics</td>
<td>Knicks</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6*</td>
<td>May 16</td>
<td>8 p.m.</td>
<td>Knicks</td>
<td>Celtics</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7*</td>
<td>May 19</td>
<td>8 p.m.</td>
<td>Celtics</td>
<td>Knicks</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><h3>Western Conference</h3><p><strong>Oklahoma City Thunder (1) vs. Denver Nuggets (4)</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Game</th>
<th>Date</th>
<th>Time (ET)</th>
<th>Home</th>
<th>Away</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td>May 5</td>
<td>9:30 p.m.</td>
<td>Thunder</td>
<td>Nuggets</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td>May 7</td>
<td>9:30 p.m.</td>
<td>Thunder</td>
<td>Nuggets</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td>May 9</td>
<td>10 p.m.</td>
<td>Nuggets</td>
<td>Thunder</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td>May 11</td>
<td>3:30 p.m.</td>
<td>Nuggets</td>
<td>Thunder</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5*</td>
<td>May 13</td>
<td>TBD</td>
<td>Thunder</td>
<td>Nuggets</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6*</td>
<td>May 15</td>
<td>TBD</td>
<td>Nuggets</td>
<td>Thunder</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7*</td>
<td>May 18</td>
<td>TBD</td>
<td>Thunder</td>
<td>Nuggets</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><strong>Minnesota Timberwolves (6) vs. Golden State Warriors (7)</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Game</th>
<th>Date</th>
<th>Time (ET)</th>
<th>Home</th>
<th>Away</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td>May 6</td>
<td>9:30 p.m.</td>
<td>Timberwolves</td>
<td>Warriors</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td>May 8</td>
<td>8:30 p.m.</td>
<td>Timberwolves</td>
<td>Warriors</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td>May 10</td>
<td>8:30 p.m.</td>
<td>Warriors</td>
<td>Timberwolves</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td>May 12</td>
<td>10 p.m.</td>
<td>Warriors</td>
<td>Timberwolves</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5*</td>
<td>May 14</td>
<td>TBD</td>
<td>Timberwolves</td>
<td>Warriors</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6*</td>
<td>May 18</td>
<td>TBD</td>
<td>Warriors</td>
<td>Timberwolves</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7*</td>
<td>May 20</td>
<td>8:30 p.m.</td>
<td>Timberwolves</td>
<td>Warriors</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><em>* If necessary</em></p>

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - APRIL 25: A picture of Wilson basketballs and the playoff logo on the seats before game three of the first round of the 2025 NBA playoffs between the Indiana Pacers and the Milwaukee Bucks at Fiserv Forum on April 25, 2025 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

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Los Angeles Clippers star Kawhi Leonard took a moment to praise his former coach Gregg Popovich a...

<p>Los Angeles Clippers star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/4200" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/4200">Kawhi Leonard</a> took a moment to praise his former coach Gregg Popovich after losing Saturday's Game 7 to the Denver Nuggets.</p><p>"He had a phenomenal career. He coached until pretty much he couldn't, in a sense," Leonard said postgame, per <a href="https://x.com/MikeAScotto/status/1918861961741107404">Michael Scotto of Hoops Hype</a>. "It shows how much dedication he had to the game, how much he loved the game, and how much he gave to the game."</p><p>The San Antonio Spurs recently announced that Popovich would relinquish his head coaching duties but would remain with the organization as team president.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 76-year-old hadn't coached the club since suffering a stroke Nov. 2, 2024, and was replaced behind the bench by Mitch Johnson, who will succeed Popovich permanently.</p><p>Leonard was drafted 15th overall by the Indiana Pacers before a draft-night trade to the Spurs in 2011 and spent the first seven years of his career in San Antonio. Under Popovich's tutelage, Leonard captured two Defensive Player of the Year awards, two All-Star nods, two All-NBA first-team nominations, an NBA title, and a Finals MVP.</p><p>He also placed in the top three in MVP voting in 2016 and 2017.</p><p>Leonard's scoring improved every season with the Spurs until a quad injury limited him to nine games for the 2017-18 campaign. Disagreements with San Antonio over his recovery ultimately led to a falling-out, and the organization traded Leonard to the Toronto Raptors, where he won his second championship.</p><p>In 2023, Spurs fans booed Leonard while he shot free throws as a member of the Clippers. But in an unusual midgame move, Popovich grabbed the arena microphone to urge the crowd to show respect.</p><p>"I appreciate everything he's done for me. Coming into the league, he helped build my foundation and showed me how to win," Leonard said. "I want to congratulate him on his career. But also, stay healthy."</p>

PORTLAND, OR - DECEMBER 15: Kawhi Leonard #2 and Gregg Popovich of the San Antonio Spurs talk against the Portland Trail Blazers on December 15, 2014 at the Moda Center Arena in Portland, Oregon. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2014 NBAE

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Kawhi honors Popovich: 'Coached until pretty much he couldn't'

The Denver Nuggets advanced to the second round of the playoffs after routing the Los Angeles Cli...

<p>The Denver Nuggets advanced to the second round of the playoffs after routing the Los Angeles Clippers 120-101 in Saturday's Game 7.</p><p>The Nuggets set the tone with a 24-4 run to start the third quarter and extended their lead to as many as 35 points.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30810" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30810">Aaron Gordon</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102793" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102793">Christian Braun</a> led the way with 22 and 21 points, respectively, and all five Nuggets starters scored in double figures. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/347" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/347">Russell Westbrook</a> added 16 points, five assists, five rebounds, and five steals off the bench. He's the third player to ever record that statline off the bench in a postseason game and the first since Manu Ginobili in 2007, per <a href="https://x.com/UsherNBA/status/1918849951137755226">Stathead</a>.</p><p>"My ability to be a force of nature on the floor is what I pride myself on, so whatever that looks like," Westbrook <a href="https://x.com/NBATV/status/1918877745817214992">told</a> reporters postgame. "It may be turnover, it may be a missed shot, but it may be a steal, may be a dunk, may be a missed three, may be a made three - it's gonna be all of that."</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/4200" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/4200">Kawhi Leonard</a> tallied 22 points, but his negative-33 in 33 minutes is the worst plus-minus of any game in his career, per <a href="https://x.com/zachkram/status/1918844208950997044">ESPN's Zach Kram</a>. </p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/351" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/351">James Harden</a> scored only seven points on 2-of-8 from the field. Harden didn't speak to the media postgame, according to <a href="https://x.com/joeylinn_/status/1918852742593888768">Joey Linn of Sports Illustrated</a>.</p><p>While Game 7 was out of hand for most of the second half, the aggregate point differential in the series was plus-4 for L.A.</p><p>Clippers bench boss Ty Lue lost a Game 7 for the first time in his head coaching career, snapping a 4-0 record in such contests.</p><p>Denver has reached the second round in six of the past seven seasons. The Clippers, meanwhile, haven't advanced beyond Round 1 since 2021, and this is their third straight opening-round exit.</p><p>Nikola Jokic and Co. will take on the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder in Round 2. OKC hasn't played since April 26 after completing a four-game sweep of the Memphis Grizzlies. </p><p>Head coach David Adelman won't be allowed to linger on this series, as Game 1 between the Nuggets and OKC is scheduled for Monday at 9:30 p.m. ET.</p><p>"This was a memorable series. We just don't have time to remember it," Adelman said, per <a href="https://x.com/NBABlackburn/status/1918850898182221935">Ryan Blackburn of Mile High Sports.</a></p>

DENVER, CO - MAY 3: Nikola Jokic #15 of the Denver Nuggets handles the ball during the game against = during Round 1 Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs on May 3, 2025 at Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado. 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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Nuggets outclass Clippers in Game 7 to set up series with Thunder

Tyrese Haliburton's father, John, won't be at Indiana Pacers home or away games for the foreseeab...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93893" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93893">Tyrese Haliburton</a>'s father, John, won't be at Indiana Pacers home or away games for the foreseeable future, a team spokesperson told <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1918035610075578404">ESPN's Shams Charania</a> on Thursday.</p><p>The Pacers' front office made the decision after John sparked an on-court <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3277736" href="https://thescore.com/news/3277736">confrontation</a> with Milwaukee Bucks star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30611" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30611">Giannis Antetokounmpo</a> following Indiana's series-clinching win in Game 5, <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1918035712869335261">Charania</a> added.</p><p>John left his courtside seat to taunt the 2021 Finals MVP shortly after his son's winning overtime layup. Before exiting the court, Antetokounmpo found John in the crowd and told him to never disrespect Antetokounmpo like that again, according to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3278263" href="https://thescore.com/news/3278263">Haliburton's account</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Tyrese told reporters postgame that he believed his father was in the wrong. John issued an apology on social media shortly after the incident, which Tyrese reposted.</p><p>The Pacers open their second-round series against the No. 1 seed Cleveland Cavaliers on Sunday.</p>

LAS VEGAS, NV - DECEMBER 7: John Haliburton looks on before the game during the semifinals of the In-Season Tournament on December 7, 2023 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE

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Haliburton's dad won't attend Pacers games after confronting Giannis

The Minnesota Timberwolves have advanced to Round 2 of the NBA playoffs courtesy of a 103-96 win ...

<p>The Minnesota Timberwolves have advanced to Round 2 of the NBA playoffs courtesy of a 103-96 win over the Los Angeles Lakers in Game 5 on Wednesday in L.A.</p><p>Four-time Defensive Player of the Year <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30615" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30615">Rudy Gobert</a> had the best playoff performance of his career, tallying 27 points, 24 rebounds, and two blocks. He is the first player in NBA history to record at least 25 points and 20 rebounds while shooting 80% from the field in a series-clinching victory.</p><p>Minnesota struggled mightily from deep, knocking down just 7-of-47 of its 3-point attempts. The poor shooting included a stretch of 18 consecutive 3-point misses. However, 18 offensive boards - including nine from Gobert - buoyed the T-Wolves' offense.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Timberwolves' 14.9% from deep is the lowest 3-point percentage on 40-plus attempts in NBA postseason history, according to <a href="https://x.com/tomhaberstroh/status/1917798696109973573">Tom Haberstroh of Yahoo Sports</a>.</p><p>Timberwolves star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93912" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93912">Anthony Edwards</a> had his worst offensive outing of the postseason with just 15 points on 5-of-19 from the field and 0-of-11 from three.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a> scored 28 points but didn't make his first field goal until midway through the second quarter. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a> recorded 22 points on 9-of-21 from the field. The pair combined for just eight points in their final quarter of the season; L.A. only managed to score 16 in the fourth quarter. </p><p>Doncic appeared to injure his back on a fall late in the second quarter and looked noticeably hobbled for the duration of the second half.</p><p>Lakers center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/70968" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/70968">Jaxson Hayes</a> was taken out of the team's rotation and didn't record a second of action in the closeout contest.</p><p>"There's always a mix of disappointment and gratitude. Certainly disappointed and not something I ever envisioned with this team, having to go in and talk to them after losing in the first round," Lakers head coach JJ Redick said, per <a href="https://x.com/LakersReporter/status/1917808602330656894">Mike Trudell of Spectrum SportsNet</a>.</p><p>"But give Minnesota a lot of credit. They're a really good basketball team. I think our guys played hard enough and did all the right things. We tried to make it work with what we had, and came up short."</p><p>James was vague about his future after Wednesday's defeat marked the end of his 22nd season in the NBA. "I don't know the answer to that right now," James said when asked about how much longer he plans to play, according to <a href="https://x.com/mcten/status/1917817857989304537">ESPN's Dave McMenamin</a>. </p><p>The Timberwolves will face the winner of the Houston Rockets-Golden State Warriors series. Golden State holds a 3-2 advantage following a blowout defeat Wednesday in Houston.</p>

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 30: Luka Doncic #77 of the Los Angeles Lakers looks to pass the ball against Rudy Gobert #27, Donte DiVincenzo #0, and Nickeil Alexander-Walker #9 of the Minnesota Timberwolves during the second quarter in Game Five of the Western Conference First Round NBA Playoffs at Crypto.com Arena on April 30, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.

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Gobert's career night helps T-Wolves eliminate Lakers in 5 games

Maxi Kleber made his Los Angeles Lakers debut in Wednesday's 103-96 Game 5 elimination loss again...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60967" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60967">Maxi Kleber</a> made his Los Angeles Lakers debut in Wednesday's 103-96 Game 5 elimination loss against the Minnesota Timberwolves.</p><p>He checked into the game at the 2:48 mark of the first quarter.</p><p>Kleber last stepped on an NBA floor Jan. 25. He underwent surgery to repair a broken right foot at the end of January.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 6-foot-10 forward was acquired from the Dallas Mavericks as part of the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic </a>trade.</p><p>Kleber has averaged 6.4 points and 4.4 rebounds while shooting 34.3% from three in 440 career games - all as a Maverick. He started three of Dallas' five Finals games against the Boston Celtics last season.</p><p>L.A. had struggled with its depth against the Timberwolves, as only seven players are averaging more than 10 minutes per game heading into Game 5.</p><p>Kleber finished the night with two points and one turnover in five minutes of action.</p>

EL SEGUNDO, CA - APRIL 02: Maxi Kleber runs drills during a Lakers practice at UCLA Health Training Center on Wednesday, April 2, 2025 in El Segundo, CA.(Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)

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Kleber makes Lakers debut in Game 5 elimination loss

Miami Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra admits the Jimmy Butler saga was a dark cloud that hovered a...

<p>Miami Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra admits the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2809" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2809">Jimmy Butler </a>saga was a dark cloud that hovered above the organization for much of the season.</p><p>"It certainly had an impact," Spoelstra said during Wednesday's exit interview with the media, per the <a href="https://www.miamiherald.com/sports/nba/miami-heat/article305319471.html">Miami Herald's Anthony Chiang</a>. </p><p>"We are an organization that prides ourselves on not making any kind of excuses. Even if we managed it perfectly, there's always second-guessing on what we could have done better just to right the ship. It was turbulent waters. But it's not as if that would have moved the needle for us to be first in the conference. That's unrealistic."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Butler, who led the Heat to two NBA Finals appearances in five seasons with the club, was the focus of president Pat Riley's ire last offseason. The Hall of Famer criticized Butler for his behavior in the 2024 playoffs as well as his lack of availability throughout the season. Miami also refused to give the six-time All-Star his desired two-year, $113-million contract extension.</p><p>Butler asked to be traded and was suspended without pay three different times in January before being shipped to the Golden State Warriors at the trade deadline.</p><p>"It was a good five-year run," Spoelstra commented. "When things end, often times they end not as loudly as this. ... And it's unfortunate."</p><p>He added: "We all feel like it didn't have to go to that level. But we have clarity now. We have turned the page, this is a different chapter and we're moving on."</p><p>The Heat finished 10th in the East with a 37-45 record. They managed to win two consecutive play-in games to clinch the No. 8 seed but were blown out in a 4-0 sweep against the Cleveland Cavaliers.</p><p>The first-round exit included a 37-point loss in Game 3 and a 55-point defeat in Game 4, the two largest playoff losses in Miami's history. The Heat's minus-122 point differential through four games makes it the most skewed playoff series in NBA history.</p><p>"I feel like Spo tried to do his best to make the team focus on the main thing," <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53731" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53731">Bam Adebayo</a> said Wednesday. "Obviously, there was a lot of noise going on around us. There were a lot of things happening, moving fast, not knowing who's going to be in the lineup, if they were going to show up today or not."</p><p>Butler inked a two-year, $121-million extension with Golden State shortly after the trade. He averaged 17.9 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 5.9 assists in 30 games with the Warriors.</p><p>Golden State has a 3-1 series lead over the Houston Rockets in Round 1 of the playoffs.</p>

PHILADELPHIA, PA - FEBRUARY 27: Jimmy Butler #22 and Erik Spoelstra of the Miami Heat look on against the Philadelphia 76ers on February 27, 2023 at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. 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 2023 NBAE

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Spoelstra: Butler drama 'certainly had an impact' on Heat's season

Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton didn't try to defend his father's postgame altercation wit...

<p>Indiana Pacers guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93893" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93893">Tyrese Haliburton</a> didn't try to defend his father's postgame altercation with Milwaukee Bucks star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30611" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30611">Giannis Antetokounmpo</a>.</p><p>"You know, as far as the incident between Giannis and my pops, I had no idea it happened until I got to the back and was showed the video," Haliburton said after the Pacers eliminated the Bucks in Game 5, per <a href="https://athlonsports.com/nba/indiana-pacers/tyrese-haliburton-assigns-blame-following-dads-heated-exchange-with-giannis-antetokounmpo">Nick Meyer of Athlon Sports</a>.</p><p>"Me and my pops have talked about that, and I don't agree with what transpired there from him. Basketball is basketball, and let's keep it on the court. I think that he just got excited, saw his son make the game-winner, and came on the court."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Haliburton's father, John, walked out of his seat carrying a towel shortly after his son's series-clinching layup in overtime. He stared down the Bucks star and appeared to say a few words to him before <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11120" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11120">Pat Connaughton</a> arrived to de-escalate the situation.</p><p>"I don't think my pops was in the right at all there," Haliburton added.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="350" height="622" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/DD1kRFMWy0Y" title="Haliburton's dad went up to Giannis with a Pacers poster 😳 (via TylerSmith_ISL/X)" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Shortly after, Antetokounmpo found John in the crowd. The pair exchanged words before a Bucks employee shepherded Antetokounmpo away.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="350" height="622" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CFciiy7p0Ew" title="Giannis &amp; Tyrese Haliburton's dad 👀" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Antetokounmpo also had a heated postgame <a href="https://x.com/Sleeper_Hoops/status/1917384130188435738">argument</a> with Pacers guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102759" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102759">Bennedict Mathurin</a> as the two teams shook hands at midcourt.</p><p>"I believe in being humble in victory, that's the way I am," Antetokounmpo <a href="https://x.com/WorldWideWob/status/1917414583209451696">said</a> in his postgame press conference. "There can be a lot of people out there that are like, 'No, when you win the game, you get to talk shit, and, you know, it's a green light to be disrespectful to somebody else.' I disagree."</p><p>He continued: "I have won a championship, they haven't."</p><p>Antetokounmpo wasn't angry at Haliburton's father for showing emotion. However, he was frustrated with the disrespect he was shown after the match.</p><p>"I'm happy for him, and I'm happy for his son, and I'm happy he's happy for his son," he said. "That's how he's supposed to feel. But coming to me and disrespecting me and cursing at me is totally disrespectful."</p><p>Haliburton later reposted an apology that his father wrote on the social media platform <a href="https://x.com/PapaHaliburton/status/1917435463045898241">X</a>:</p><blockquote><p>I sincerely apologize to Giannis, the Milwaukee Bucks and the Pacers organization for my actions following tonight's game. This was not a good reflection on our sport or my son and I will not make that mistake again.</p></blockquote><p>This is the second consecutive postseason the Pacers have eliminated the Bucks in the first round.</p><p>Antetokounmpo recorded 30 points, 20 rebounds, 13 assists, and two blocks in the overtime loss.</p>

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - APRIL 29: Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks reacts in the first quarter against the Indiana Pacers of Game 5 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on April 29, 2025 in Indianapolis, Indiana.

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Haliburton: Father responsible for postgame incident with Giannis

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Thomas Tittley

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