Apr 22, 2023; Los Angeles, California, USA; The Los Angeles Lakers logo at center court during game three of the 2023 NBA playoffs at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
The Los Angeles Lakers have been determined to surround JJ Redick with an experienced coaching staff, and they accomplished that with two hires they made on Wednesday.
Former NBA head coaches Nate McMillan and Scott Brooks have been hired by the Lakers as assistant coaches, ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reports.
Between them, McMillan and Brooks have three decades of head coaching experience in the NBA. McMillan, 59, was a head coach more recently than Brooks, as McMillan last coached the Atlanta Hawks during the 2022-23 season before being fired. Brooks, 58, was dismissed as head coach of the Washington Wizards following the 2020-21 season.
McMillan has an overall record of 760-668 as a head coach in the NBA. His teams — the Hawks, Indiana Pacers, Portland Trail Blazers and Seattle SuperSonics — were 28-48 in the postseason.
Brooks compiled a record of 521-414 across five seasons with Washington and seven seasons with the Oklahoma City Thunder. He has a 49-48 playoff record and led the Thunder to an NBA Finals appearance in 2012. Brooks was with the Blazers as an assistant the last three seasons.
The 40-year-old Redick does not have any experience coaching in the NBA as a head coach or assistant, which is why the Lakers wanted to be sure to assemble a veteran staff. While L.A. may have missed out on some of their top targets, McMillan and Brooks should be plenty useful to Redick.
East Rutherford, NJ October 22, 2023. Daniel Jones of the Giants on the sidelines in the second half. Photo credit: Chris Pedota, NorthJersey.com / USA TODAY NETWORK
The New York Giants lost Saquon Barkley to a division rival this offseason after they played hardball in contract negotiations with the star running back, and general manager Joe Schoen says there was a very straightforward reason for that.
In the most recent episode of HBO’s “Hard Knocks,” which aired on Tuesday night, Schoen spoke in a personnel meeting about the decision to not re-sign Barkley. The GM pointed to the fact that quarterback Daniels Jones is playing on a four-year, $160 million contract.
“You’re paying the guy $40 million. It’s not to hand the ball off to a $12 million back,” Schoen said, via Michael David Smith of Pro Football Talk.
Barkley signed a three-year, $37.75 million deal with the Philadelphia Eagles that includes $26 million guaranteed. There were reports that the Giants had offered roughly the same amount annually, though they were not willing to guarantee as much.
Schoen’s remark may have sounded like a challenge to Jones, but Schoen insists he still believes in Jones. He also spoke about the struggles the Giants have had along their offensive line and said even Patrick Mahomes could not have won games under the circumstances with which Jones dealt.
Beware that the clip contains cursing:
Jones is owed $35.5 million in guaranteed money this season. That huge figure is likely the primary reason the Giants are going to give him one more chance to prove he is capable of winning games in the NFL. There have been some reports indicating the team is down on Jones, but Schoen is at least giving the impression that he does not feel that way.
Most teams choose not to spend big on running backs, and the rising cost of a starting quarterback is the primary reason for that. Plenty of other executives would agree with what Schoen said.
Apr 4, 2023; Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (6) reacts to being called for a foul against the Utah Jazz in the last minute of the fourth quarter at Vivint Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rob Gray-USA TODAY Sports
LeBron James has agreed to a new contract with the Los Angeles Lakers, and the deal contains a notable clause.
James and the Lakers on Wednesday agreed to a two-year, $104 million maximum contract. ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reports that the deal includes a player option for the second year and also a no-trade clause.
The structure of the deal gives James maximum leverage. He is not tied to the Lakers beyond next season, and he cannot be traded without his approval. The no-trade clause likely became even more important to LeBron after L.A. drafted his son Bronny in the second round last week. LeBron did not have a no-trade clause in his previous contract with the Lakers.
It is not a surprise that LeBron has chosen to take his future year-by-year, as he will turn 40 early next season. The four-time NBA MVP still played at an extremely high level last season with 25.7 points, 8.3 assists and 7.3 rebounds per game, but he has acknowledged that his legendary career is nearing its finish.
If LeBron and Bronny appear in a game together next season, they will be the first ever father-son duo in the NBA to do so. Though, Bronny would like us to believe he is not thinking about that.
LeBron’s other son, Bryce James, seemed to drop a hint recently about when he thinks his father will retire.
Philadelphia 76ers guard Cameron Payne was arrested last month for refusing to reveal his identity to police, and we now know the fake name that he gave to officers.
Payne was arrested in Scottsdale, Ariz., on June 14 after an alleged argument with his girlfriend. Despite being the one who called 911, Payne was uncooperative with police when they arrived at the scene.
According to a Scottsdale Police Department incident report that was obtained by TMZ, Payne and his girlfriend told police that their services were no longer needed after officers got to the scene. Payne and the woman said the argument never turned physical and that the two had cooled off. Police then asked the couple to provide their identities so the officers could file a report, and Payne refused to cooperate.
The report states that Payne argued with police for several minutes and insisted his name was “Terry Johnson.” Officers said they did not believe him and would have to arrest him if he did not show identification and/or give his proper legal name. Payne responded “that’s fine” and was allegedly given several more chances to cooperate.
At one point, Payne did provide his real name but followed up with, “No, that’s my fake name, can you please leave.” Payne then allegedly told police, “If you want to arrest me for giving you a fake name, congratulations.” The 29-year-old was eventually arrested and taken into custody, where he was booked on one count of refusal to provide a truthful name and one count of false report to law enforcement.
Payne played for the Phoenix Suns from 2019-2023, which could explain why he was in the Scottsdale area. He was acquired by the 76ers in February as part of the Milwaukee Bucks’ trade for Patrick Beverley.
Payne averaged 7.4 points and 2.6 assists per game in 78 contests last season split between the Bucks and Sixers. He has been in the NBA since being taken No. 15 overall in the 2015 draft by the Thunder.
Jul 2, 2024; El Segundo, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers second round draft pick Bronny James at a press conference at the UCLA Health Training Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
It’s clear as day that LeBron James’ presence on the Los Angeles Lakers influenced the team to draft Bronny James. But Bronny still appears to be somewhat in denial about it.
The Lakers held an introductory press conference Tuesday for Bronny James and fellow rookie Dalton Knecht.
The younger James was asked about his decision to leave USC early despite an underwhelming freshman season. The reporter also inquired about how much LeBron’s status as an active player factored in to Bronny declaring for the 2024 NBA Draft.
The 55th overall pick tried to downplay the father-son narrative by making a claim that raised some eyebrows.
“For me, I always try to put that narrative [aside],” said Bronny. “Trying to get my name out myself. … I’ve never really had a thought of me going to play with my dad. That’s always there … but it wasn’t a main focus of mine.”
Several fans on X were completely dubious about Bronny stating that he had never thought about playing with LeBron. After all, LeBron himself has been very vocal about the idea of teaming up with his eldest son in the NBA.
In all fairness to Bronny, there’s probably no answer he could have given that would have appeased everybody. The 19-year-old also seemed to be a little nervous in front of a slew of media members.
Given his status as LeBron’s son, Bronny will have one of the most highly scrutinized rookie campaigns in recent memory. More difficult questions are likely to come as the season rolls along.
May 19, 2022; Miami, Florida, USA; Boston Celtics guard Jaylen Brown (7) brings the ball up court during the first half of game two of the 2022 eastern conference finals against the Miami Heat at FTX Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jim Rassol-USA TODAY Sports
A couple of good Samaritans returned Jaylen Brown’s personalized championship ring that the Boston Celtics star had lost. Brown made sure to return the favor.
Two weeks ago, Brown asked his four million Instagram followers to help him locate his diamond-studded ring that went missing during the Celtics’ championship parade on June 21.
On Tuesday, Brown posted on his social media accounts that a couple named Luke and Adi found the ring and gave it back to him. Brown also revealed a pretty sweet reward he plans to gift the two.
“Got it back thank you to Luke and Adi I’ll see you courtside at the [Celtics’ championship ring] ceremony,” Brown posted on X along with a photo of the recovered ring.
The ring itself probably could have netted the couple a small fortune had they sold it. But earning the reigning Finals MVP’s eternal gratitude along with courtside seats worth several thousand dollars is more than a decent alternative.
Brown had quite the celebration during the Celtics’ championship parade. The usually stoic Brown let loose during the event and even wore a shirt that poked fun at a certain ESPN personality.
The New York Knicks may not be done wheeling and dealing in the trade market just yet.
The Knicks made the first big splash of the offseason last week when the team acquired Mikal Bridges from their crosstown rival Brooklyn Nets.
The Knicks also lost a key piece in center Isaiah Hartenstein, who signed with the Oklahoma City Thunder on a deal nearing nine figures.
New York has “made inquiries” to land Hartenstein’s potential replacement, according to a report from HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto. The Knicks are said to be “showing interest” in Utah Jazz center Walker Kessler.
Kessler had a standout rookie campaign with the Jazz two seasons ago. The Auburn alum finished third in 2022-23 Rookie of the Year voting after averaging 9.2 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks on a stunning 72.0% shooting clip.
But Utah signed John Collins during the 2023 offseason, creating a logjam within the Jazz frontcourt. After starting in 40 games as a rookie, Kessler started just 22 contests in his sophomore campaign. Save for a 0.1 bump in his blocks per game, Kessler’s numbers went down across the board.
Kessler is a 7’0″ shot-blocker who could be the ideal defensive backstop for the Knicks wing-heavy lineup. Given the injury history of Knicks’ incumbent starter Mitchell Robinson, Kessler could have plenty of opportunities to take a big bite out of the “Big Apple.”
Las Vegas Raiders pass rusher Maxx Crosby had an awesome yet somewhat ironic message to his peers at this year’s “Sack Summit” event.
Crosby was invited to be the host and keynote speaker at the annual “Sack Summit,” which is an event meant to help defensive linemen and edge rushers network and share knowledge.
On Tuesday, Crosby stood in front of dozens of NFL players at UNLV’s Fertitta Football Complex in Las Vegas, Nev. His message at an event with the word “sack” in its name? It’s not all about the sacks. (Warning: the video contains profanity.)
“I’ve had a game, I played the Chiefs my third year. I had like 13 pressures and 0 sacks and I’m killing this dude,” shared Crosby.
“I knew I was killing his a–. We lost the game and I’m getting murdered [on social media]. They’re like, ‘Oh, he got his a– locked up.’ I’m like, ‘Am I f—ing missing something?’ … If you just stick to it and trust the plan, and you know you’re winning rushes, bro. The sack comes and they come in bunches.”
The “Sack Summit” was originally organized by 3-time All-Pro linebacker Von Miller back in 2017. The event has always been held in Las Vegas, which is fittingly Crosby’s territory.
Crosby knows a thing or two about getting sacks. He was sixth in the NFL last season with 14.5 sacks, ahead of guys like Micah Parsons and 2023 Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett.
Crosby was named 2nd-team All-Pro and finished fourth in DPoY voting.
Oct 30, 2013; Oakland, CA, USA; T-shirts depicting a map of the bay area and the new bay bridge Golden State Warriors logo at Oracle Arena before the game between the Golden State Warriors and the Los Angeles Lakers. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports
The Golden State Warriors are going to be a lot slower next season.
The Warriors on Tuesday acquired Kyle Anderson from the Minnesota Timberwolves via sign-and-trade, according to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski. Anderson’s contract is reportedly worth $27 million over three years.
The Timberwolves received a future second-round pick swap and cash considerations in return.
Endearingly called “slow-mo” since his days at UCLA, Anderson was a key piece for the Timberwolves over the last two seasons.
The versatile 6’9″ forward served multiple roles for Minnesota. He filled in as a capable starting big man at times (56 starts) whenever the team dealt with injuries to their frontcourt. Anderson also handled playmaking duties as an offensive hub off the bench.
Anderson averaged 7.8 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game across his two seasons in Minnesota. He was third on the team in assists during both years, even averaging more than Anthony Edwards during the 2022-23 campaign.
Given the Warriors’ recent exodus of veterans, Anderson could play a huge role off the bench or as an occasional starter.
The 10-year pro shares some similarities with Draymond Green on the offensive end, which could make Anderson an ideal fit next to Steph Curry in the Warriors’ rotation.
Jun 5, 2022; San Francisco, California, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Klay Thompson (11) warms up before game two of the 2022 NBA Finals against the Boston Celtics at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports
Klay Thompson’s recent exit from the Golden State Warriors may have been a little more contentious than it appeared on the surface.
Thompson and the Warriors went their separate ways earlier this week when the 5-time All-Star signed a 3-year, $50 million deal with the Dallas Mavericks.
Thompson was reportedly “as equally exhausting” for the Warriors front office to handle as Draymond Green last season, according to KRON4 News reporter Jason Dumas.
Dumas spoke candidly about Thompson during a Monday appearance on 95.7 The Game radio.
“Klay has been equally as exhausting behind the scenes,” Dumas bared.
“It’s not as loud. It’s not as loud because it’s not you stomping on someone’s chest. If he’s slamming stuff on the bench and sulking, and doing that on the court, how do you think it is in practice? How do you think it is in the Warriors’ locker room? It has been uncomfortable. It has. It just doesn’t come out as loudly as Draymond Green.”
Last season, Green had one of the most drama-filled campaigns in recent memory.
Green was slapped with an indefinite suspension in December and had to undertake some unusual measures before returning to the court. Comparing anyone to Green in terms of off-court behavior hints at some major controversy behind the scenes.
Whether or not Thompson was truly as problematic as Green in the Warriors’ locker room will probably never be proven for sure. But it was clear that Thompson’s relationship with the Warriors’ front office had already deteriorated way before he left for the Mavericks.
