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Thunder

<div>The Indiana Pacers medical team decided to clear Tyrese Haliburton to play in Game 7 of the NBA Finals despite an existing calf strain and that blunder resulted in a torn Achilles tendon. While understandable given the gravity of the situation, that decision proved to be very costly for not only the organization as a whole but more importantly to Tyrese Haliburton as it was just announced that he would miss the entire 2025/2026 season due to a torn achilles.&nbsp;</div>
<img src="https://cdn.basketballnews.com/images/story/body/3-etan-thomas-1_690w.jpeg" alt="" />
<div>In contrast, this past summer, my daughter Imani Thomas class of 2026 was faced with a very difficult decision to play through an injury at Nationals and risk further more severe injury.&nbsp;</div>
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<div>Here&rsquo;s the story: &nbsp;</div>
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<div>Imani had played through shin splints for the entire travel season with her team Maryland Juniors. These shin splints actually developed during her junior year high school season with Bishop McNamara, but she is a soldier and she pushed through like all athletes do.&nbsp;</div>
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<div>However, toward the end of her travel season, the shin splints continued to get worse. She did constant treatment and even started over compensating to protect her shin splints until one practice she could barely move. The assistant coach (Coach Ashley Williams) came up to me and said,&nbsp;</div>
<div>&ldquo;Imani is a beast, and she is not going to stop playing no matter what I tell her. But you need to get this checked out because it&rsquo;s visibly getting worse&rdquo;&nbsp;</div>
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<div>So me and my wife Nichole took her to get X Rays and a MRI and it was discovered that her shin splints had turned into a stress fracture.&nbsp;</div>
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<div>She was devastated. Nationals were coming up and like any athlete she contemplated just sucking it up and playing through the pain.&nbsp;</div>
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<div>The doctor was honest with us. He explained to us that if Imani was playing soccer, he would definitely not clear her to play because the likelihood of her getting kicked in her stress fracture was relatively high. If she played football or rugby or any contact sport, he would also not clear her. But she plays volleyball, and the likelihood of her getting kicked in her stress fracture was very low.&nbsp;</div>
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<div>However, if she landed wrong, the impact could be just as severe as if she got kicked. Then he asked how her mechanics were and I told him that she had been over compensating for quite some time. She&rsquo;s been pushing through and getting a lot of treatment but she has been in pain for a long time. And the doctor said honestly, it&rsquo;s a decision you have to make for her. She is going to want to risk it all and play. That&rsquo;s how athletes are.&nbsp;</div>
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<div>So we talked to Imani, explained the risks, and together we came to the decision that it would be best to sit out.&nbsp;</div>
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<div>And it was a very difficult process for her as it would be for any athlete but long term over short term was what was important.&nbsp;</div>
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<div>Now, back to Tyrese Haliburton.</div>
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<div>NBA fans across the world witnessed what would have been a story of triumph. One for the archives of NBA history. The storyline would&rsquo;ve been.... Facing elimination in the NBA playoffs in a pivotal Game 7, Tyrese Haliburton battles through injury with superhuman perseverance and in heroic fashion to save the Pacers and propel them into victory solidifying this as one of the greatest finals performances in the history of the NBA. They probably would&rsquo;ve had a picture of Haliburton with a Superman emblem on his chest and a cape under his Warriors uniform. Would&rsquo;ve had his dad holding the same Pacers towel he waved in front of Giannis next to his son with the trophy. Would&rsquo;ve been a sportswriters dream as so many angles could&rsquo;ve been covered and explored.</div>
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People love stories of heroics. Isiah Thomas hobbling around on one foot in game 6 of the 1988 NBA Finals against the Lakers and scoring 25 points in the 3rd quarter. Or Willis Reed walking out of the tunnel for the New York Knicks on his bum ankle in Game 7 of the 1970 Finals. Everything was set up for Haliburton to be added to that list.
High school, college and professional coaches across the country were just salivating to be able to use this as an example to their players to enforce the philosophy that &ldquo;pain is weakness leaving your body&rdquo;. They would&rsquo;ve used Haliburton as an example to young athletes that the game (not your health) is what matters most. And a real &ldquo;team player&rdquo; would sacrifice a &ldquo;little discomfort&rdquo; for their team.
I have seen this all before. During my tenure with the Washington Wizards, I witnessed team trainer Eric Waters misdiagnose player after player because what was best for the Wizards organization was for that player to play.
I saw Richard Hamilton go off on the entire training staff after he learned that&nbsp;he had been playing through a torn groin, only disclosed to him after the team was out of playoff contention. He had been complaining about his groin for weeks and the trainers were giving him treatment two and three times a day all the while knowing his groin was torn, but they wanted to push for the playoffs so they didn&rsquo;t tell him.&nbsp;
<img src="https://cdn.basketballnews.com/images/story/body/3-etan-thomas-3_690w.jpeg" alt="" />
I saw them tell Jarvis Hayes that he simply had a case of &ldquo;tendinitis&rdquo; in his knee and had him playing through the pain. Turned out he had a broken knee cap and ruined his entire career.&nbsp;
I saw them tell Kwame Brown that he was just experiencing a &ldquo;little discomfort&rdquo; in his leg and that he needed to play through the pain to show everyone that he was worthy of being the number 1 pick. Turned out later, he actually had a torn hamstring.&nbsp;
<img src="https://cdn.basketballnews.com/images/story/body/3-etan-thomas-4_690w.jpeg" alt="" />
I saw Eric Waters tell Deshawn Stevenson there was nothing seriously wrong with his back and had him getting ice and stem and playing through the pain. After the season, upon further review by an outside doctor it was discovered that he actually had an Inflamed L5 Nerve that was stuck underneath a disc that required not one but two back surgeries to repair.&nbsp;
My point in saying all of this is not to simply blast Eric Waters, I am showing that this happens all the time in professional sports. With team doctors and trainers, there is a conflict of interest and the sworn medical oath becomes blurred and effects their diagnoses. They are hired by the teams and are in essence employees of the organization not employees of the players. So they don&rsquo;t have the players best interest in mind, typically, they only have the organization&rsquo;s.
The Indiana Pacers medical staff basically RG3&rsquo;d Haliburton. They &ldquo;Any Given Sunday&rsquo;d&rdquo; him. They Eric Waters&rsquo;d him.
<img src="https://cdn.basketballnews.com/images/story/body/3-etan-thomas-5_690w.jpeg" alt="" />
He shouldn&rsquo;t have been playing period.
The risks outweighed the rewards. Even from a team standpoint. This is your franchise player. This is a player who has the capability of single handedly turning an entire NBA championship finals series around. This is a player that you should&rsquo;ve done everything in your power to convey to him how important he is long term for them and how much they value his health and are looking out for his best interest etc etc. However, what they showed was the exact opposite.&nbsp;
It doesn&rsquo;t matter if Haliburton insisted on playing in Game 7, just like it didn&rsquo;t matter if Imani insisted on playing in Nationals.&nbsp;Sometimes, when it comes to their health, athletes need people to make the decision for them. That&rsquo;s our job as parents and we did that. That was also the job of the Pacers medical team, and they did not have the medical integrity to do that.&nbsp;
Imani had her boot off now and is starting rehab and will be back full strength in a few weeks. Haliburton&rsquo;s calf strain turned into a ruptured Achilles and he will have to sit out the entire 2025/2026 season.&nbsp;
In explaining the difference in how me and my wife Nichole handled her injury vs how the Pacers medical staff handled his, I started singing, &ldquo;They Not Like Us&rdquo; A Dad joke that fell flat with Imani but I don&rsquo;t care it was a good joke.&nbsp;
But in all seriousness, I hope all young players see this and learn that no matter what the circumstances or how big the game is, your health always comes first, and you ALWAYS get a 2nd opinion from your own doctors that have nothing to do with the organization like Kawhi Leonard did in San Antonio his last season there.&nbsp;
Let me refresh everyone&rsquo;s memory.
Everyone with a microphone dogged Kawhi that season. Skip Bayless was still going on his hateful rants and baseless criticisms of Kawhi even after the Raptors beat the 76ers in the playoffs.
Skip Bayless tweeted out
&ldquo;Well, I guess it worked for No. 2 to quit on the Spurs last season complaining of what Spurs doctors decided was no more than a thigh bruise. He wound up in the East, playing against a hobbled, sick Embiid and an overrated Giannis. "Crime" pays.&rdquo;
Kawhi delt with Coach Popovich taking shots at him, his teammates taking shots at him, the team questioning his injury because their &ldquo;team doctors&rdquo; said he was fine. But he got a 2nd opinion and was told otherwise and did what was in his best interest. Danny Green was reportedly playing through a torn groin after being misdiagnosed by the same team doctors that misdiagnosed Kawhi.
And the Spurs are one of the most respected organizations in the NBA with one of the most respected coaches in the NBA. But, the bottom line is, any organization will throw you out there in a heartbeat injured if they feel it is best for the organization. They will publicly criticize you if you don&rsquo;t play and if you play and re-injure yourself worst or just don&rsquo;t play up to their expectations (as if they don&rsquo;t know your playing injured) they will get rid of you in a New York minute just like The Washington Commanders did RG3 and just like the Washington Wizards did with Jarvis Hayes.
I remember watching Grant Hill. He was about to literally take over the league.
People were calling him out for not playing hurt. Said he was soft, overrated etc etc just like they were saying about Haliburton before he shut them all up this playoff series.
The Orlando medical staff derailed Grant&rsquo;s entire career.&nbsp;
Another example is the young Isiah Thomas. He shouldn&rsquo;t have been playing in Boston in the playoffs but he played, ended up hurting himself more, ended up needing surgery, cost himself 100 million dollars came back and played after losing his sister and they traded him that summer because they knew about his injury and knew that he needed surgery.
<img src="https://cdn.basketballnews.com/images/story/body/3-etan-thomas-8_690w.jpeg" alt="" />
Kyrie Irving goes and gets a 2nd opinion and they say you need surgery, the Celtics doctors didn&rsquo;t tell him he needed surgery, so he had his surgery and came back the next year strong. There is a reoccurring theme here.
I immediately called my son Malcolm who is working hard at The University Of Dayton right now as I write this article I hope he learned the lesson in what just happened to Haliburton. Told my daughter Baby Sierra and Imani the entire way to school yesterday, like literally the whole entire way I was going on an endless rant.
Told them stories of Eric Waters and Ernie Grunfeld trying to get me to take a cortisone shot in my pubic bone and go out an play when I was suffering an abdominal strain that kept me sidelined for an extended period of time. But also how the 2nd opinion I received from my doctor was that if I did that, I would almost certainly hurt myself worse because the Cortisone show wouldn&rsquo;t exceed the healing process, it was just make it so I didn't feel the pain.&nbsp;
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But just think of it logically, your body sends pain signals to you when something is hurting to let you know to stop doing that. If you block that signal, you won&rsquo;t feel the warning you&rsquo;re supposed to feel. Made perfect sense to me so I told them no. And sure they tried to put pressure on me and have a beat writer pressure me through the power of the pin in a few articles (no I didn&rsquo;t have any actual proof of this but the timing and coincidence was way too convenient so I&rsquo;ll say &ldquo;allegedly&rdquo; had a beat writer pressure me through the media). But the end result was me standing firm and telling them no, I can&rsquo;t go.
However, the onus shouldn&rsquo;t be placed on the athlete&rsquo;s shoulders. Of course athletes are going to want to play but it shouldn&rsquo;t be up to them. A solution to this league wide issue was suggested to me by a lawyer by the name of Marlon Amprey. He explained that the Players Association should assemble a group of outside doctors/specialists (or specific doctors/specialists the player suggests) that have no connection to the team whatsoever.
That will provide 2nd &amp; 3rd opinions and give players detailed reports on their health and risk of injury. All doctors&rsquo; reports given by teams that drastically differ should go under review and there should be repercussions for team doctors and trainers who medically clear players who shouldn&rsquo;t be medically cleared to play.
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The Indiana Pacers medical team decided to clear Tyrese Haliburton to play in Game 7 of the NBA Finals despite an existing calf strain.

The Indiana Pacers RG3’d Tyrese Haliburton

Shai Gilgeous‑Alexander continues his meteoric rise this summer&mdash;securing a league-record four-year, $285.4 million supermax extension with the Oklahoma City Thunder and earning the coveted spot as the standard‑edition cover athlete for NBA 2K26, both first reported by Shams Charania and confirmed by multiple outlets.
SGA&rsquo;s supermax deal, the largest average annual value in NBA history at approximately $71.35 million per year, slots him in OKC through the 2030&ndash;31 season. It comes on the heels of a historic 2024-25 campaign: he won NBA MVP, Finals MVP, the scoring title (32.7 PPG), and led OKC to its first NBA championship &ndash; a rare trifecta achieved by only three players in history .
Simultaneously, 2K Games officially selected SGA as the NBA 2K26 standard edition cover star, releasing the news via Shams Charania on X. The announcement highlighted his on-court dominance and off-court appeal, with the game&rsquo;s SVP praising SGA&rsquo;s &ldquo;elite IQ, ice‑cold composure and street style&rdquo;. The game, set for release on September 5, 2025, will also feature Angel Reese and Carmelo Anthony on other editions, with all three appearing on the deluxe Leave No Doubt edition.&nbsp;
ANALYSIS: This is a huge move for the franchise stability of OKC, as they have now locked in its best player for half a decade, ensuring consistency around their young core and championship expectations. Moreover, being a primary NBA 2K cover athlete is a rare distinction &ndash; SGA joins the ranks of NBA icons and becomes the first Thunder player to earn a solo standard-edition cover since Kevin Durant. The partnership with 2K extends beyond the cover &ndash; SGA helped shape on-game aesthetics like playlists and introduction outfits. It's a marketing win for both the superstar and the NBA brand.&nbsp;
Shai Gilgeous‑Alexander&rsquo;s summer moves are more than ceremonial &ndash; this is a franchise-defining era. From signing the richest deal in league history to gracing the cover of the most iconic basketball video game, he's cementing his legacy on and off the court. Oklahoma City&rsquo;s future will be measured by how well it builds around its undisputed leader.

Shai Gilgeous‑Alexander continues his meteoric rise this summer with his supermax extension and being the NBA 2K26 cover.

Shai Gilgeous‑Alexander cements elite year with historic extension and NBA 2K26 cover

The Indiana Pacers have filled the void left by Myles Turner&rsquo;s departure to Milwaukee by trading for 7‑foot‑1 stretch center Jay Huff, who was dealt to Indiana by Memphis for a pair of second-round picks and a pick swap, first reported by Shams Charania via ESPN.&nbsp;
Huff, known for his 40.5% shooting from deep last season, immediately brings the spacing and rim protection the Pacers need.
In limited minutes with Memphis, Huff averaged 6.9 points, 2 rebounds, and nearly 1 block in just under 12 minutes per game. Indiana views him as a low-risk, high-upside addition with three years remaining on his $8 million contract. He&rsquo;s expected to slot into the rotation immediately as their new primary center, as he plays similarly to Turner.
This move arrives on the heels of Turner signing a four-year, $107 million deal with Milwaukee, leaving the Pacers scrambling to reconstruct their frontcourt. While Huff won&rsquo;t directly replicate Turner&rsquo;s production, analysts regard the trade as a smart pivot &ndash; a cost-effective way to keep the roster balanced while maintaining cap flexibility, as well as Huff&rsquo;s skillset directly correlates with that of Turner&rsquo;s.
Indiana is also expected to target additional frontcourt support, with restricted free agent Isaiah Jackson recovering from an Achilles injury. For now, Huff provides a much-needed bridge in the post-platform, giving the team a modern big man who can stretch, rebound, and protect the rim.

The Indiana Pacers have filled the void left by Myles Turner’s departure to Milwaukee by trading for 7‑foot‑1 center Jay Huff.

Pacers find Turner's replacement, land stretch big Jay Huff

The Portland Trail Blazers and center Deandre Ayton have agreed to a contract buyout, according to ESPN&rsquo;s Shams Charania.&nbsp;
This paves the way for Ayton to enter free agency as the veteran center, who held one year and $35.6 million on his deal, will waive that salary to pursue a fresh opportunity elsewhere.
At 26, Ayton averaged a robust 14.4 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 1.0 block over 40 games last season before a left calf injury ended his year early. A former No. 1 overall pick and member of the NBA All-Rookie First Team, he's maintained double-double averages across seven seasons, distinguishing himself among active centers.
Portland, fresh off adding young big men Donovan Clingan and Yang Hansen through the 2024 and 2025 drafts, as well as carrying Robert Williams III and Duop Reath, had limited space for Ayton&rsquo;s minutes. Unable to find a suitable trade, the buyout became the most viable exit strategy.&nbsp;
After clearing waivers (expected by Wednesday evening), Ayton can sign with any NBA team &ndash; even those over the second apron &ndash; providing flexibility in his next move.
Portland retains Ayton on its cap until his new contract begins, potentially stretching the buyout over multiple seasons to maximize cap flexibility.
However, the move aligns with their development-first vision, granting floor time to Clingan, Hansen, and Williams without drafting another center-heavy rotation. 
The Blazers have offloaded a big salary to prioritize young frontcourt talent and cap health. For Ayton, this marks a fresh start, as he should draw interest from contenders seeking size and rebounding at a modest cost.

The Portland Trail Blazers and center Deandre Ayton have agreed to a contract buyout, according to ESPN's Shams Charania.

Trail Blazers agree to buy out Deandre Ayton

SGA takes over late as Thunder tie NBA Finals at 2-2 with tactical switches
The Oklahoma City Thunder are built on poise, patience, and principles. So when they found themselves staring down a 2-1 series deficit against the Indiana Pacers in the 2025 NBA Finals, they didn&rsquo;t panic. They adjusted, and they simplified. And then, they unleashed their superstar.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, already in the midst of a historic postseason run, delivered another defining performance in Game 4 &ndash; one that swung the Finals and cemented his status as the alpha on basketball&rsquo;s biggest stage. Down late in the fourth quarter, SGA scored or created nearly every crucial bucket, finishing the night with 35 points, with one transcendent takeover.
But this wasn&rsquo;t just about a scoring outburst. This was high-level basketball IQ, surgical execution, and coaching precision from Mark Daigneault wrapped into a four-minute flurry that may ultimately define the 2025 NBA Finals.
The adjustment that shifted the game, and possibly the series
With 3:54 left in the fourth quarter and the Thunder trailing by five, head coach Mark Daigneault called a timeout. Up to that point, Indiana&rsquo;s defensive scheme &ndash; centered on Andrew Nembhard defending Gilgeous-Alexander &ndash; had largely held up. Nembhard, who&rsquo;s known SGA since their childhood days playing in Canada, was disciplined and physical without fouling, staying grounded against SGA&rsquo;s deceptive fakes and change-of-pace moves.
But Daigneault didn&rsquo;t overcomplicate things. Out of the timeout, he made one small yet powerful tweak: Oklahoma City began actively hunting switches to get Aaron Nesmith onto Gilgeous-Alexander.
It worked like clockwork. The Thunder ran repeated ball screens involving Jalen Williams, with Nesmith as the on-ball defender. Once the switch occurred, SGA went to work.
What followed was a brilliant stretch of controlled basketball dominance.
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">3:35 left &mdash; SGA attacks Nesmith off a switch, draws a foul, and calmly sinks two free throws.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">3:01 left &mdash; With Williams initiating, SGA spaces out on the right wing. Nesmith switches onto him. One dribble pull-up three. Splash. Thunder cut the Pacers&rsquo; lead to one.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">2:23 left &mdash; In transition, SGA motions for an isolation. Williams clears out, Nesmith stays on him. Stepback fade from the left wing. Money. Thunder take the lead.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">1:38 left &mdash; Thunder run the same switch at the midpost. SGA attacks again, drawing Nesmith&rsquo;s sixth foul &ndash; and he&rsquo;s done for the night.</li>
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This was completely broken down from a video by Steph Noh:
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With 3 min 52 sec remaining, Mark Daigneault called timeout and made the adjustment that won the Thunder Game 4. Nembhard had been guarding SGA extremely well. Thunder used the same action 3x to get Nesmith to switch, Shai kept scoring/getting the foul call. <a href="https://t.co/6g4GnhA0RU">pic.twitter.com/6g4GnhA0RU</a>
&mdash; Steph Noh (@StephNoh) <a href="https://twitter.com/StephNoh/status/1933735227999810014?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 14, 2025</a>
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These weren&rsquo;t just buckets and free throws &ndash; they were calculated, unhurried, and inevitable. And just like that, the Thunder took control of the game and the momentum of the series.
Daigneault&rsquo;s postgame comments echoed the calmness his team displayed during that decisive run, which has been the Thunder&rsquo;s blueprint all season. The Thunder rarely stray from their core principles. They space the floor, they move the ball, and they trust Gilgeous-Alexander to dissect whatever coverage comes his way. But this time, they leaned into the moment. They fed their MVP the exact looks he needed and let him take it home.
The beauty of OKC&rsquo;s late-game offense was in its simplicity. Instead of running elaborate sets or off-ball actions, they flattened the floor, used one screener to create the mismatch, and let their best player read the floor. No wasted motion and no hesitation, just straight up takeover from their superstar.
SGA's Finals legacy is taking shape
Gilgeous-Alexander has now scored 30+ points in three of the four Finals games, and he&rsquo;s doing it efficiently and under control. He&rsquo;s not just a volume scorer &ndash; he&rsquo;s manipulating defenses, managing pace, and bending the game to his rhythm.
Game 4 wasn&rsquo;t just a highlight reel of clutch plays. It was a masterclass in reading matchups, knowing personnel, and executing a plan. There&rsquo;s a reason why Indiana put Nembhard on him and not Nesmith. The moment the Thunder exploited that switch, it turned the game around, and possibly the series.
And it&rsquo;s worth remembering: this is Gilgeous-Alexander&rsquo;s first trip to the Finals. Yet he plays like he&rsquo;s been here before.
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With the series now tied 2-2, the pressure swings back to the Pacers. They&rsquo;ve been remarkable all postseason, and Game 4 was no exception &ndash; they executed their game plan for 44 minutes. But when the game slowed down and turned into a star duel, SGA stood tallest.
Game 5 looms large. And if the Thunder keep finding ways to free their MVP, it&rsquo;s hard to bet against them.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander took over late as the Thunder tied the NBA Finals 2-2, punishing switches to seal Game 4.

SGA TAKES OVER: How the Thunder overcame the Pacers in Game 4 to even the series

As the Phoenix Suns prepare to part ways with Kevin Durant, trade discussions have intensified, centering on three frontrunner destinations: the Miami Heat, San Antonio Spurs, and Houston Rockets, according to ESPN&rsquo;s Shams Charania.
These teams are reportedly Durant&rsquo;s preferred landing spots, with mutual interest and the potential for a lucrative extension in play. Sources close to the situation revealed to Charania that Heat, Spurs, and Rockets have all gained significant traction in negotiations and are considered finalists in the pursuit of the 15-time All-Star.
ANALYSIS: Durant lists Miami as a desirable destination, citing the franchise's culture and strong front office support. The Heat reportedly attempted to acquire him at the trade deadline. While they may lack in draft assets, veteran players like Andrew Wiggins, Kel&rsquo;el Ware, and Duncan Robinson could be key parts of a package.
San Antonio presents an alluring mix: pairing Durant with phenom Victor Wembanyama and rising star De&rsquo;Aaron Fox. With significant draft capital &ndash; including the Nos. 2 and 14 picks &ndash; the Spurs are well-positioned to make a big move. However, they face a dilemma: part with core young assets or risk falling short in rebuilding momentum.
The Rockets are another strong candidate. Durant has personal connections in Houston through assistant coach Royal Ivey and head coach Ime Udoka. The Rockets&rsquo; young core &ndash; Alperen Sengun, Amen Thompson, Jalen Green &ndash; is a plus, though matching Phoenix&rsquo;s demands may necessitate including top talent like Green or Jabari Smith Jr.
Despite Durant's preferences, the Suns maintain they will seek the most valuable return, regardless of destination. With Durant entering the final year of a $54.7 million contract and eligible for a two-year, $122&ndash;124 million extension post-trade, leverage remains high. Six to eight teams are reportedly in serious discussions, including the Minnesota Timberwolves.&nbsp;
The window for a deal is narrowing, with reports suggesting a potential trade could emerge within days or centered around the upcoming NBA Draft. While Spurs appear to be premier contenders according to early betting odds, the situation remains highly fluid and driven by asset valuation.&nbsp;
Kevin Durant&rsquo;s next chapter is poised to unfold soon. Miami offers playoff pedigree and culture; San Antonio brings youth and assets; Houston provides chemistry and continuity. Ultimately, the Suns&rsquo; focus on value, aligned with Durant&rsquo;s willingness to commit, sets up a dramatic trade saga that will soon come to a result over the next few days.

The Spurs, Rockets, and Heat are the frontrunners to land Suns superstar forward Kevin Durant, according to Shams Charania.

Heat, Spurs & Rockets emerge as top contenders as Kevin Durant trade talks heat up

After falling short in Game 1 of the NBA Finals, the Oklahoma City Thunder responded in the best way possible by delivering a dominant performance in Game 2. Their emphatic 123-107 win over the Indiana Pacers was a display of strategic adjustments, improved production from key contributors, and continued mental toughness that has defined their season.
Here are the biggest takeaways from Game 2:
Aaron Wiggins makes the most of his moment
Every NBA Finals features a surprise contributor who seizes the spotlight, and in Game 2, that player was Aaron Wiggins. The 26-year-old wing delivered 18 points in just 20 minutes off the bench after only just playing 9 minutes in Game 1, giving the Thunder a massive lift. Whether it was spotting up for threes, slashing to the rim, or capitalizing on defensive lapses, Wiggins was relentless and efficient.
His energy, activity, and versatility on both ends allowed OKC to maintain momentum when Shai Gilgeous-Alexander rested. Wiggins not only outscored every Pacers starter &ndash; he made it clear that he&rsquo;s more than a role player that can light it up whenever given the chance on this stage.
OKC&rsquo;s double big lineups make their mark
One of the most important adjustments from Game 1 was Mark Daigneault&rsquo;s decision to lean more heavily on the double-big look with Chet Holmgren and Isaiah Hartenstein. That pairing proved dominant in Game 2.
Together, they posted a +16 in their minutes on the floor &ndash; a strong indicator of their effectiveness. The duo controlled the paint, altered countless shots, and even connected on a highlight-reel alley-oop that underscored their improving chemistry.
This look not only gave OKC a size advantage but also neutralized Indiana&rsquo;s interior scoring, a key difference from Game 1.
OKC defense stifles Tyrese Haliburton
Tyrese Haliburton struggled in Game 2 as he failed to make a significant impact against OKC&rsquo;s disciplined defense. The Thunder's perimeter defenders &ndash; especially Lu Dort and Alex Caruso &ndash; cut off driving lanes, forced tough shots, and made him work for every inch of space.
Although Haliburton finished with 17 points, he dished out only 5 assists and had 5 turnovers, which well below his usual standard. If Indiana wants to regain control of the series, they&rsquo;ll need their All-Star floor general to find ways to adapt and reassert himself.
The others step up big for the Thunder
What Indiana did so well in Game 1 &ndash; getting contributions from across the roster &ndash; was flipped completely in Game 2 by Oklahoma City. While Shai Gilgeous-Alexander continued to lead the way, the Thunder had four other players score at least 15 points.
Jalen Williams (18 points) and Chet Holmgren (17) played much more assertively as the No. 2 and 3 options, but it was the bench production that stole the show. Alex Caruso poured in 20 points and Aaron Wiggins added 18. Combined, they outscored every individual Pacers player, including Indiana's starters.
This kind of collective performance is what makes the Thunder so dangerous. On any given night, they have multiple players capable of swinging a game.
Resilient Thunder bounce back yet again
One thing has held true all season for OKC &ndash; they don&rsquo;t let losses linger.
With this Game 2 win, the Thunder improved to 18-2 following a loss this season (including the in-season NBA Cup, which doesn&rsquo;t count in official standings). Even more impressively, 12 of those 18 bounce-back wins have come by double digits.
OKC has yet to lose back-to-back games in these playoffs. In fact, they&rsquo;ve only lost two consecutive games twice all season. That kind of short memory and mental toughness has been one of their greatest strengths &ndash; and it showed up again on the league&rsquo;s biggest stage.
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With the series now tied 1-1, the Finals shift to Indiana, where the Pacers have thrived all postseason. But if Game 2 taught us anything, it&rsquo;s that this Thunder team has the personnel, the coaching, and the resilience to keep adjusting and keep fighting.
Game 3 promises to be a battle &ndash; but after this dominant response, Oklahoma City has firmly reasserted itself in the series.

Thunder dominate Game 2 of the NBA Finals: Aaron Wiggins steps up, OKC's double bigs shine, and Haliburton struggles.

Thunder-Pacers Game 2 Takeaways: What we learned from Game 2

The Indiana Pacers struck first in the 2025 NBA Finals, taking Game 1 against the Oklahoma City Thunder after an improbable comeback in the 4th quarter clinched by a game-winning jumper from Tyrese Haliburton. While the series is far from over, Game 1 offered plenty of early lessons and adjustments to look out for in the coming games.
<h3>Turnovers, turnovers, turnovers</h3>
If there&rsquo;s one thing you can&rsquo;t do against the Thunder, it&rsquo;s turn the ball over. Oklahoma City isn&rsquo;t just elite in forcing turnovers &ndash; they&rsquo;re historically good. Game 1 was a harsh introduction for Indiana, who coughed up possession far too many times against a team designed to feast off mistakes &ndash; 24 of them to be exact.
OKC&rsquo;s perimeter defenders, from Alex Caruso to Jalen Williams to Lu Dort and Cason Wallace, excel at reading passing lanes and applying pressure without fouling. The Thunder swarmed Indiana&rsquo;s offense, collapsing on drives and disrupting flow. Their rotations were sharp, their closeouts disciplined, and their ability to generate live-ball turnovers turned defense into instant offense.
Given that this was Indiana&rsquo;s first Finals appearance in decades, some early jitters were expected. The energy inside Paycom Center was relentless, and the Pacers' miscues snowballed under pressure. Although they won Game 1 by a hair, moving forward the Pacers need to prioritize clean possessions and limit turnovers if they want a real shot at winning the series. Because let&rsquo;s be real, the Thunder are still heavy favorites despite squandering Game 1. Improved composure and better decision-making, especially from their lead ball handlers, will be key.
<h3>Too much space for the MVP</h3>
Indiana&rsquo;s defensive game plan allowed Shai Gilgeous-Alexander far too much room to operate. The newly crowned MVP carved up the defense with his signature patience, gliding into open mid-range jumpers and attacking downhill with minimal resistance. Time and again, he found the pockets of space he thrives in. SGA scored an astounding 38 points in his Finals debut, and Indiana should do a better job in crowding him and showing him bodies.
SGA&rsquo;s ability to control tempo is what makes him so difficult to guard. He's never rushed. He plays at his own pace, decelerating into stepbacks or slithering into floaters. In Game 1, Indiana gave him too much cushion and failed to show enough help at the point of attack.
To slow him down, the Pacers must adjust their coverage. They need to crowd his space, get physical, and throw multiple bodies at him. Blitzing pick-and-rolls, shading help early, and forcing the ball out of his hands should be top priorities. OKC&rsquo;s supporting cast is capable, but Indiana has to be willing to gamble by making others beat them. As it stands, SGA is getting exactly what he wants.
<h3>Bench scoring advantage</h3>
One area Indiana clearly won in Game 1 was bench production. Obi Toppin led the way with 17 points, including five made threes, providing crucial spacing and energy. His timely shooting helped the Pacers keep pace, particularly during stretches when their starters were stagnant.
TJ McConnell was equally impactful, igniting the Pacers&rsquo; second unit with relentless pace and dribble penetration. Whether pushing off makes or misses, McConnell kept OKC on their heels and helped Indiana stay within striking distance. His ability to find seams in the defense and collapse the Thunder&rsquo;s perimeter gave Indiana a much-needed offensive spark.
The Thunder, on the other hand, didn&rsquo;t get much juice from their reserves offensively aside from Isaiah Hartenstein. While their rotation depth helped defensively, the scoring disparity off the bench could be something to monitor as the series progresses. If Indiana&rsquo;s bench can continue to outperform OKC&rsquo;s, it could swing the momentum in tighter contests.
<h3>Rotation chess match</h3>
Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault made some eyebrow-raising rotation decisions in Game 1. Most notably, he started Cason Wallace over Isaiah Hartenstein, opting for a smaller, switch-heavy group designed to disrupt Indiana&rsquo;s ball movement and prevent easy driving lanes.
The Thunder rarely used their double-big lineups, instead rotating between Hartenstein and Chet Holmgren at center while leaning into versatility and perimeter defense. At times, Daigneault even deployed a one-forward, four-guard setup &ndash; and in a few stints, a full five-guard lineup. The strategy prioritized switchability and speed, key components in disrupting Indiana&rsquo;s flow.
Daigneault went deep into his bench, using 11 players in total. The most surprising cameo came from rookie Ajay Mitchell, who logged a 4&ndash;5 minute stretch early in the second quarter. Mitchell went scoreless on 0-of-3 shooting and finished with a -3, which showed Daigneault&rsquo;s willingness to trust his young talent &ndash; even on the Finals stage. While it didn&rsquo;t pay dividends on the scoreboard, the experience could prove valuable if Mitchell&rsquo;s number is called again later in the series. However, with everything on the line and at stake, Daigneault must choose between developing and going all in and trust the veterans to win games for OKC.
On the other side, Rick Carlisle pushed all the right buttons. Thomas Bryant and Ben Sheppard delivered timely contributions, defending well and knocking down big shots. Carlisle staggered minutes well, ensuring McConnell and Toppin had favorable matchups. His ability to read the game and make real-time adjustments helped Indiana stay competitive despite the turnover woes.
<h3>Final thoughts</h3>
Game 1 gave us a glimpse of how Oklahoma City&rsquo;s swarming defense and MVP-led offense can control the tempo of this series. Their blend of length, athleticism, and discipline on defense creates chaos, while SGA&rsquo;s poise and scoring gravity center everything on offense. But it also showed Indiana has the bench depth, coaching flexibility, and offensive firepower to respond.
Expect the Pacers to clean up their turnovers and tweak their coverage on Gilgeous-Alexander heading into Game 2. They'll need to impose more physicality on defense and continue winning the bench battle. If they can take better care of the ball and throw OKC off rhythm, this series has the potential to get very interesting.
The chess match has only just begun.

Discover key takeaways from Game 1 of the 2025 NBA Finals between the Thunder and Pacers, what we learned from each team.

Thunder-Pacers Game 1 Takeaways: What we learned from the NBA Finals opener

In an NBA era defined by star-chasing, supermax contracts, and eye-watering luxury tax bills, the Indiana Pacers have defied every expectation &ndash; and the associated financial precedent. This isn't just a Cinderella story &ndash; it is a testament to the franchise&rsquo;s strategic planning, belief, and organizational cohesion. The Pacers didn&rsquo;t just sneak into the NBA Finals. They earned their way there, brick by brick, all while keeping their books clean and their identity intact.
When the final buzzer sounded in Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Finals, it wasn&rsquo;t just a win for Indiana &ndash; it was a triumph for every small-market franchise searching for hope. In a league that often favors the big spenders, Indiana made it through without ever crossing into luxury tax territory. It&rsquo;s a feat that&rsquo;s not just impressive &ndash; it&rsquo;s unprecedented in today&rsquo;s NBA landscape.
This Finals appearance isn&rsquo;t an overnight success. What they lacked in payroll, they made up for in vision, development, coaching, and complete buy-in from the front office, to the coaching staff, and the players themselves &ndash; making this a culmination of the belief that you can build a winner through cohesion and culture &ndash; and not just cost.
<h4>A vision realized for Indiana</h4>
The foundation of Indiana&rsquo;s Finals run traces back to February 2022. The Pacers shipped All-Star Domantas Sabonis to Sacramento and received a then-rising guard in Tyrese Haliburton.&nbsp;
At the time, the move was seen as a gamble. Few teams part ways with a current All-Star for a young guard still developing. At the time, the move was seen as a gamble. Few teams part ways with a current All-Star for a young guard still developing. Many questioned the move and a few understood the vision.
However, Indiana did. They saw a lead playmaker who could evolve into the face of their franchise. Three years later, Haliburton has done exactly that &ndash; growing into an All-NBA-caliber PG, powering the league&rsquo;s fastest-paced offense and leading the Pacers with maturity beyond his years.
Haliburton was also someone who could not only run their offense but also carry the culture. The result was a floor general with a team-first mentality and elite passing instincts, now one of the NBA's most dynamic point guards, but at the same time has one of the energetic personalities and star vibe in the league. Haliburton&rsquo;s development into a full-fledged star wasn&rsquo;t accidental. It was intentional &ndash; nurtured by head coach Rick Carlisle, empowered by the front office, and amplified by the supporting cast that embraced his leadership.
The vision was clear from the start: make Haliburton the center of everything. Build around his IQ, his unselfishness, and his drive. That clarity allowed the front office to pursue players who complemented his skill set, not cluttered it.
One of those pieces came midseason in the form of Pascal Siakam, acquired from Toronto. Siakam brought championship pedigree, defensive versatility, and a scoring punch that balanced out Indiana&rsquo;s offense. While most teams searched for flash, Indiana sought fit. Siakam wasn&rsquo;t just a name &ndash; he was a need, and he filled it perfectly with all his traits that the team needed.
Pairing Haliburton&rsquo;s creativity with Siakam&rsquo;s downhill force turned Indiana into an offensive juggernaut. They didn&rsquo;t just outscore opponents, they overwhelmed them with pace, precision, and purpose.
<h4>Finding value in &ldquo;rejects and cast-offs&rdquo;</h4>
Indiana&rsquo;s roster isn&rsquo;t built on big names &ndash; it is built on belief.&nbsp;
Obi Toppin, once a lottery pick in New York, never got the role or runway he needed. In Indiana, he found freedom. In Carlisle&rsquo;s system, his athleticism became a weapon, not an afterthought.
Aaron Nesmith was viewed as a spare part in Boston, part of the return in the Malcolm Brogdon deal. Now? He&rsquo;s a defensive stopper, reliable shooter, and starter for a Finals-bound team.
Both were labeled as afterthoughts elsewhere but in Indiana, they were seen as untapped potential, and they have been vital pieces in this run to the Finals. These weren&rsquo;t lottery tickets. These were strategic buys; low-risk, high-reward acquisitions that paid off because the Pacers provided the right ecosystem for growth.
In a system that values spacing, ball movement, and grit, players like Toppin and Nesmith flourished. Their emergence wasn&rsquo;t just a bonus &ndash; it was necessary. The Pacers&rsquo; depth became one of their biggest advantages, and it was built on players most teams had given up on.
<h4>Myles Turner: The loyal soul that stayed after being through it all</h4>
If there&rsquo;s a symbol of Indiana&rsquo;s perseverance, it&rsquo;s Myles Turner. For years, he was in every trade rumor imaginable. Yet he never asked out, never wavered, and just kept working.
Now, the longest-tenured Pacer is finally on the biggest stage. Turner&rsquo;s elite shot-blocking, stretch/spacing ability, and leadership have anchored this team in every sense.&nbsp;
Turner is the defensive anchor and emotional pillar of Indiana&rsquo;s run, and on a team full of new faces, his presence provided continuity which he has embodied from day one.
His loyalty was rewarded and his patience paid off. And in a poetic twist, he&rsquo;ll play for a title in the only uniform he&rsquo;s ever known.
<h4>The right draft picks, the right roles, and the culture setters</h4>
The Pacers didn&rsquo;t just win the draft &ndash; they won the development battle. Andrew Nembhard, taken 31st overall in 2022, has become one of the best value picks in recent years. His poise, defensive tenacity, and timely playmaking have been invaluable throughout the playoffs next to Haliburton.
Then there&rsquo;s Bennedict Mathurin &ndash; flashy, fearless, and unafraid of the moment. He&rsquo;s not a volume scorer yet, but his playoff contributions &ndash; attacking off the bench, hitting momentum-swinging shots &ndash; have added another dimension to Indiana&rsquo;s attack.
Together, they reflect the front office&rsquo;s shrewdness. Indiana didn&rsquo;t just draft talent &ndash; they drafted competitors that can be brought to war.
On the other hand, people like TJ McConnell &ndash; veterans who show up, do the work, and demand accountability &ndash; have helped shape the culture in Indiana. McConnell may not stuff the stat sheet, but he sets the tone. Every loose ball, every second-unit possession, every moment of urgency, he&rsquo;s there &ndash; diving, scrapping, leading.
In the playoffs, when the margin of error shrinks, players like McConnell make the difference. His presence alone changes games &ndash; and reflects the kind of winning culture Indiana has quietly cultivated for years and it has absolutely paid off with this Finals run.
<h4>Brilliant coaching by veteran champion coach Rick Carlisle</h4>
However, none of this happens without Rick Carlisle. Over a decade removed from his legendary 2011 title run with Dallas, Carlisle has once again proven his genius. He reinvented Indiana&rsquo;s offense around Haliburton&rsquo;s strengths, managed egos without sacrificing cohesion, and made the right adjustments at every critical postseason juncture.
His calm demeanor, sharp tactical mind, and belief in player empowerment have given this group the freedom to grow &ndash; and the structure to succeed. He wanted to build something sustainable and something real. He didn&rsquo;t just install a playbook &ndash; he constructed a belief system. One that emphasized player development, ball movement, and defensive grit.
Carlisle has masterfully blended youth with experience, adapting his game plan series after series. He&rsquo;s out-coached more expensive benches and out-thought veteran counterparts. He&rsquo;s now one of the few head coaches to lead multiple franchises to the NBA Finals, and he did it again without a superteam &ndash; but by doing it with one of the most balanced rosters in the NBA.
&ndash; &ndash; &ndash;
What makes Indiana&rsquo;s improbable NBA Finals run remarkable is the backdrop: a financial arms race across the league. Many are saddled with bloated payrolls and limited flexibility and have spent well into the luxury tax just to chase a title.
Through careful planning, smart contracts, and prudent investments, the Pacers have remained competitive without ever compromising their cap structure.
This is a reminder to the league that culture matters. That coaching still counts. That not every superstar needs to be acquired through chaos.
In many ways, Indiana has done the impossible: they&rsquo;ve built a Finals team without mortgaging their future or blowing up their balance sheet. They&rsquo;ve set a new standard &ndash;&nbsp; a proof that a franchise can win through culture, clarity, and consistency, not just cash.
The Pacers built something lasting. Something meaningful. And in doing so, they&rsquo;ve earned the respect of the basketball world. This is more than just a basketball success story. The Indiana Pacers didn&rsquo;t just get here. They earned it &ndash; methodically, intelligently, and without ever compromising who they are.
And now, the Pacers are four wins away from finishing the story on the sport&rsquo;s biggest stage.

The Pacers reached the NBA Finals without luxury tax, proving a sustainable, cap-smart approach can still build a title contender.

Sustainable Greatness: Indiana’s cap-savvy journey to the NBA Finals

Game 4 of the Western Conference Finals between the Oklahoma City Thunder and Minnesota Timberwolves is shaping up to be a defining moment in the series. With the Thunder up 2-1, the stakes are sky-high: a win would give Oklahoma City a commanding 3-1 lead and the chance to close out the series at home in Game 5. A Timberwolves victory, however, would tie the series and tilt momentum squarely in Minnesota&rsquo;s favor heading back to Oklahoma City. For both teams, Game 4 is a must-win, not just to improve their series odds but to psychologically establish control.
The Thunder have already demonstrated their potential dominance, capturing Games 1 and 2 behind strong defensive play and the leadership of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. But their 42-point Game 3 loss &ndash; the franchise&rsquo;s worst in playoff history &ndash; shattered that narrative and gave Minnesota a jolt of confidence. Although it did not necessarily expose weaknesses that had been masked in earlier games, the Thunder are back in the drawing board.
Minnesota, meanwhile, needed that Game 3 win not just to stay alive in the series but to prove to themselves that they could crack Oklahoma City&rsquo;s defensive shell. Anthony Edwards&rsquo; explosive performance and a more balanced offensive attack were central to their blowout victory. The Timberwolves now face the challenge of sustaining that energy and focus, particularly in a pressure-filled Game 4 where every possession could shift the series balance.
<h3>The Thunder's adjustments:</h3>
Rekindling energy and intensity
Perhaps the most glaring issue in Game 3 was Oklahoma City&rsquo;s lack of energy from the opening tip. The Thunder were outscored 34-14 in the first quarter, and the deficit ballooned quickly. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander admitted postgame that the team simply didn&rsquo;t match Minnesota&rsquo;s intensity. That kind of mental and physical lapse is especially surprising for a young, energetic team known for playing with urgency.
The Thunder have typically prided themselves on their fast starts and emotional edge, with their crowd feeding off their hustle. To correct this, Daigneault may need to emphasize establishing their pace and transition offense early in Game 4. Perhaps a quick substitution pattern or a motivational shift in pregame preparation could help reignite that spark. If they come out flat again, Minnesota is likely to capitalize with another early run.
It&rsquo;s not just about emotion &ndash; focus matters as well. The Thunder committed costly early turnovers and allowed second-chance points, putting themselves in a hole they could never climb out of. The best adjustment may simply be a mindset shift: play like your back is against the wall, because in a Western Conference Finals, it always is. How Oklahoma City starts Game 4 will set the tone for the rest of the series.
Containing Minnesota's role players
While Anthony Edwards and Julius Randle were expected to be focal points, Oklahoma City was undone in Game 3 by Minnesota&rsquo;s role players. Rookie Terrence Shannon Jr. chipped in 15 points, including aggressive attacks to the rim and timely threes; while others like Naz Reid and Nickeil Alexander-Walker provided scoring bursts and defensive energy. The Thunder defense, which was so stifling in Games 1 and 2, was repeatedly caught off guard by Minnesota&rsquo;s bench guys.
This speaks to a deeper issue: defensive rotations and scouting. The Thunder&rsquo;s game plan had revolved around containing stars, but it left openings for corner threes and off-ball cuts that the Wolves&rsquo; bench exploited. Oklahoma City needs to tighten its weak side help defense and better communicate on switches. Lu Dort, Jalen Williams, and Cason Wallace will be vital in applying consistent pressure without over-helping.
One way to limit role players is to reduce their rhythm opportunities. That means rebounding better to end possessions, pushing the pace to limit halfcourt sets, and closing out with discipline. If OKC can neutralize Minnesota&rsquo;s bench and force Edwards and Randle to shoulder a heavier load, it could wear down the Wolves&rsquo; stars by the fourth quarter, a strategy that worked in Game 1 and 2.
Improving perimeter shooting
Oklahoma City&rsquo;s offense lives and dies by its ability to stretch the floor. In Game 3, they shot just 31.8% from beyond the arc &ndash; a drastic drop from their efficiency in Games 1 and 2. Jalen Williams and Isaiah Joe struggled to find clean looks, and the Wolves' perimeter defense closed out effectively. Without reliable spacing, Gilgeous-Alexander found it harder to penetrate and create.
Part of the problem was the Thunder&rsquo;s shot selection. Forced into late-clock attempts and contested threes, the ball movement that had fueled earlier wins stagnated. To fix this, OKC needs to reestablish its rhythm offense &ndash; using drives to kick out for open looks, and involving secondary playmakers and other bench guys like Aaron Wiggins to diversify the attack.
Hitting threes doesn&rsquo;t just boost the scoreboard &ndash; it changes the geometry of the court. If the Thunder regain their shooting stroke, it will pull Minnesota&rsquo;s defenders out of the paint and re-open driving lanes for SGA and Williams. A return to form from deep could be the single biggest factor in tilting Game 4 in Oklahoma City&rsquo;s favor.
<h3>The Wolves&rsquo; strategies:</h3>
Sustaining Anthony Edwards' Momentum
Anthony Edwards looked every bit the franchise superstar in Game 3, tallying 30 points in 30 minutes and setting the tone from the jump. His ability to attack in transition, create off the dribble, and knock down tough perimeter shots overwhelmed a Thunder defense that had kept him in check in some ways. But maintaining that level is the challenge.
Edwards has shown a tendency in past series to oscillate between brilliance and passivity. Minnesota needs him to be aggressive from the start of Game 4, particularly if OKC makes early adjustments to double or trap him. His decision-making, when to attack and when to pass, will dictate how the Thunder rotate defensively and could open up looks for teammates.
The other piece is Edwards&rsquo; defense. He played with renewed intensity in Game 3, helping disrupt OKC&rsquo;s ball movement and forcing turnovers that led to easy buckets. If he can continue to influence the game on both ends, he&rsquo;ll force Daigneault into tough matchup decisions. For the Timberwolves to even the series, they need their superstar to be the best player on the floor.
Consistency from Randle and McDaniels
Julius Randle gave Minnesota a much-needed offensive anchor in Game 3, finishing with 24 points and providing a physical counter to Chet Holmgren inside. His post-ups, face-up jumpers, and second-chance finishes is a powerful layer to the Wolves&rsquo; attack. It was a bounce back game after Randle&rsquo;s abysmal Game 2 performance, and consistency remains the key as we go deeper into the series.
Randle needs to continue exploiting mismatches &ndash; especially when the Thunder switch or play smaller lineups. If he can draw fouls and get to the line, it slows the pace and allows Minnesota to control tempo. Moreover, his ability to make quick reads as a passer will be crucial if OKC sends double-teams or crowds the paint.
McDaniels, meanwhile, doesn&rsquo;t need to score 20 points to be effective, but his timely threes and cutting lanes open up the floor. His primary value has come on defense, particularly in his effort to contain Gilgeous-Alexander. If he can provide his usual 10-12, 15 points while locking down one of OKC&rsquo;s stars, he becomes an x-factor that Oklahoma City has to account for every minute he&rsquo;s on the floor.
Bench production
The unsung hero in Minnesota&rsquo;s Game 3 romp was the bench unit. Terrence Shannon Jr. gave the Wolves a jolt with his confident scoring, while veteran Mike Conley played with the bench and helped steady the second unit. That depth allowed head coach Chris Finch to rest his starters earlier, preserving legs for what promises to be a grueling Game 4.
The Timberwolves&rsquo; bench not only scored, but also brought energy and defensive intensity. They helped build on the lead rather than merely maintain it&mdash;a luxury most teams don&rsquo;t have this deep into the playoffs. If players like Shannon, Reid, DiVincenzo, and Alexander-Walker continue producing, Minnesota can survive short lulls from their stars without losing ground.
What&rsquo;s more, the Wolves&rsquo; bench success forces OKC to go deeper into its rotation, potentially exposing weaknesses. The ability to trust non-starters with meaningful minutes is often the difference between a championship and a playoff exit. Minnesota&rsquo;s bench has a chance to turn this series around if they replicate their Game 3 performance.
&ndash; &ndash; &ndash;
Game 4 will test both teams' resolve, adaptability, and poise under pressure. The Thunder are eager to erase the sting of a 40-point loss and reestablish dominance. The Timberwolves are riding high but know they can&rsquo;t afford a letdown. Whoever best applies these adjustments and wins the intangible battles &ndash; energy, focus, composure &ndash; will walk off the court with the series edge and momentum heading into Game 5.

Game 4 of the 2025 Western Conference Finals is pivotal as the Thunder and the Wolves battle for control.

2025 NBA Playoffs: Key adjustments as Thunder, Timberwolves aim to take control

The NBA has officially announced the 2024&ndash;25 All-Rookie First and Second Teams, highlighting a season rich with emerging talent and international flair. Headlining the list is San Antonio Spurs guard Stephon Castle, who was unanimously selected to the First Team following his Rookie of the Year campaign. Castle led all rookies with 14.7 points per game and topped the class in total steals and three-pointers made, showcasing his all-around impact on the court.
All-Rookie First Team
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Stephon Castle (San Antonio Spurs) &ndash; The No. 4 overall pick from UConn, Castle averaged 14.7 points, 4.1 assists, and 3.7 rebounds over 81 games, earning unanimous First Team honors.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Zaccharie Risacher (Atlanta Hawks) &ndash; The top overall pick in the 2024 draft, Risacher delivered multiple 30+ point performances, including a season-high 38 points, and received 99 of 100 First Team votes.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Jaylen Wells (Memphis Grizzlies) &ndash; A second-round steal at pick No. 39, Wells averaged 10.4 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.7 assists, becoming the only second-rounder on the First Team.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Zach Edey (Memphis Grizzlies) &ndash; The 7'4" center provided a strong interior presence, contributing to Memphis becoming the first team since 2019&ndash;20 to have two All-Rookie First Team selections.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Alex Sarr (Washington Wizards) &ndash; The French big man averaged 13.0 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game, becoming the first Wizard since 2012&ndash;13 to make the First Team.</li>
</ul>
All-Rookie Second Team
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Matas Buzelis (Chicago Bulls) &ndash; The versatile forward from G League Ignite made an immediate impact with his scoring and defensive versatility .</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Bub Carrington (Washington Wizards) &ndash; Acquired via trade, Carrington played all 82 games, averaging 9.8 points, 4.4 assists, and 4.2 rebounds, and hit a game-winning shot to cap his season.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Donovan Clingan (Portland Trail Blazers) &ndash; The former UConn center averaged 6.5 points and 7.9 rebounds, anchoring Portland&rsquo;s defense in the paint.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Kel&rsquo;el Ware (Miami Heat) &ndash; Ware&rsquo;s athleticism and rim protection earned him a key role in Miami&rsquo;s rotation.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Yves Missi (New Orleans Pelicans) &ndash; The Cameroonian forward provided energy and rebounding off the bench, solidifying his spot among the league&rsquo;s top rookies .</li>
</ul>
This year's All-Rookie selections underscore the NBA's growing international presence, with players from France and Cameroon making significant impacts. The Memphis Grizzlies and Washington Wizards each had two players honored, reflecting successful draft strategies and player development programs.
The 2024&ndash;25 rookie class has set a high bar, and fans can look forward to watching these young stars continue to develop and shape the future of the league.

The NBA has officially announced the 2024–25 All-Rookie First and Second Teams, highlighting a season rich with emerging talent.

NBA unveils 2024–25 All-Rookie Teams

The Oklahoma City Thunder didn&rsquo;t just win a Game 7 &ndash; they passed a rite of passage.
It was gritty, and it was emotional. It was everything that defines a turning point. On Sunday afternoon, inside a frenzied arena where the air was thick with tension, the Thunder outlasted the Denver Nuggets in Game 7. The final buzzer didn&rsquo;t just signal the end of the series, but it marked the beginning of something bigger &ndash; something real.
For a team that&rsquo;s been slowly building in the shadows, amassing assets, developing talent, and waiting for its window, this series was more than just a playoff checkpoint. It was the moment where potential finally collided with performance under pressure. This win was necessary &ndash; an experience that fast-forwards a young team&rsquo;s growth in ways no regular-season run or early-round playoff series ever could.
Battle-tested by the one of the best
Oklahoma City didn&rsquo;t just beat anyone. They beat the team that has made it before and won it all. The Denver Nuggets came in with the best player in the world, Nikola Jokic, the NBA&rsquo;s three-time MVP, and a team that knows exactly what it takes to climb the mountain and hoist the Larry O&rsquo;Brien Trophy. Jokic had carved up defenses all season and into the playoffs and Jamal Murray returned to his playoff form. This team was poised to win the deciding game with all their experience in their belt, and yet the Thunder were the ones left standing.
And they did it by growing up before our eyes.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has played like the NBA&rsquo;s MVP all season, but this series demanded more. In Game 7, he wasn&rsquo;t just a scorer &ndash; he was a leader, a closer, a composed floor general in a storm. Jalen Williams, Chet Holmgren, and Cason Wallace all played beyond their years, taking hits, absorbing the moment, and coming back with even more fire.
There&rsquo;s no manual for winning a Game 7. There&rsquo;s no shortcut for the intensity that builds in every possession. Even SGA admitted to being nervous after the game going into his first ever Game 7. To play in one is one thing. To perform in one is another. To win? That takes something different. It takes nerve. And Oklahoma City just proved they&rsquo;ve got it.
A crucible that creates champions
This wasn&rsquo;t just about the win. It was about the journey &ndash; about facing adversity and coming through on the other side with a new identity. For most of this roster, this was their first taste of a Game 7, and it was nothing short of a trial by fire.
There&rsquo;s a type of emotional resilience that only emerges in these moments. The game slows down and speeds up at the same time. Every cut, every rotation, every decision matters. One mistake can send you home. One stop can etch your name in franchise history.
It&rsquo;s in these crucibles that bonds are formed. These are the games players remember in the offseason, in practice, in the next series when the legs are tired and the confidence wavers. You learn who can be trusted in the foxhole. You learn how far you can push yourself &ndash; and each other.
OKC will carry this Game 7 win for years. This is a foundational building block for a future contender.
Timberwolves await: The next test
Of course, the road doesn&rsquo;t get any easier. Next up are the battle-hardened Minnesota Timberwolves &ndash; another team on the rise, but one that has already been to the Western Conference Finals and is hungry for more.
Anthony Edwards is a force of nature. His rise mirrors that of SGA in many ways &ndash; two young stars trying to grab the torch and never let go. The Wolves have size, depth, and defensive versatility that will challenge OKC in ways even Denver didn&rsquo;t. Rudy Gobert, Julius Randle, Naz Reid, and Jaden McDaniels form a frontcourt wall that will test Holmgren&rsquo;s poise and toughness.
But the Thunder come in with something new: belief forged in battle.
They now know what it takes to win under duress. They&rsquo;ve felt the pressure of the moment and responded with poise. That experience matters. It travels. And as much as Minnesota presents matchup capabilities, OKC presents a different kind of threat &ndash; a team that&rsquo;s fearless, well-coached, and now, proven under fire.
SGA vs Anthony Edwards is the kind of series that could define this generation of NBA stars. Two leaders, two teams, two destinies intersecting on the playoff stage.&nbsp;
&ndash; &ndash; &ndash;
For years, Oklahoma City was a patient rebuild. The Russell Westbrook-Paul George era to the Chris Paul chapters came and went, but through it all, Sam Presti stayed the course. He stockpiled picks, gambled on high-upside players, and trusted in internal growth. Many wondered when &ndash; or if &ndash; it would all come together.
Game 7 was the answer.
This isn&rsquo;t just a feel-good story anymore. This is real. This is sustainable. The Thunder are here, and they&rsquo;re not backing down from anyone &ndash; not even the moment.
So as the Western Conference Finals loom, one thing is clear: The Thunder have arrived. Not just as a team with promise, but as a team with proof.
And once you get that first taste of victory under playoff fire, it changes you. It elevates your standard. It fuels your hunger. And if you&rsquo;re Oklahoma City, it marks the start of something even bigger.
Because sometimes, the only way forward&hellip; is through the fire.

The Thunder defeat the Nuggets in Game 7, marking a defining moment in their rise. How OKC's gritty win fuels their playoff growth?

Thunder’s Game 7 triumph over Nuggets signals arrival of a contender

Anthony Edwards' meteoric rise in the NBA continues relentlessly. The 23-year-old Minnesota Timberwolves superstar has added another chapter to his burgeoning playoff legacy, leading his team to a 4-1 series victory over the Golden State Warriors in the Western Conference Semifinals. This triumph not only propels the Timberwolves to their second consecutive Western Conference Finals but also reinforces Edwards' growing reputation as the league's premier "legend killer."
The term "legend killer" may have been used in jest by fans and analysts, but it's becoming more apt with each passing series. Edwards is carving out one of the most impressive early playoff resumes in recent memory, routinely stepping up against the game's brightest stars and emerging victorious.
Slaying giants and legends is becoming a playoff tradition for Edwards
Edwards' postseason journey reads like a who's who of NBA royalty. Last year, he spearheaded the Timberwolves' stunning run through the Western Conference, eliminating a Phoenix Suns team led by future Hall of Famers Kevin Durant and Devin Booker. In the following round, they went toe-to-toe with reigning MVP Nikola Jokić and the defending champion Denver Nuggets &ndash; and prevailed.
This season has followed a similar narrative. In the first round, Edwards and the Wolves dispatched the Los Angeles Lakers in five games. Edwards outdueled both LeBron James and Luka Doncic on both ends of the floor and delivering clutch baskets in high-pressure moments.
Now, in the semifinals, he's taken down a Warriors team that boasted championship pedigree and playoff-tested veterans in Jimmy Butler and Draymond Green &ndash; and would have had Stephen Curry, were it not for injury.
It's no wonder the nickname "legend killer" has started to stick. Edwards is not just winning playoff series; he's ending runs and ushering in a new era of stardom. Few players his age have compiled such an impressive list of postseason victims &ndash; and he's doing it as the unquestioned leader of a franchise that hadn&rsquo;t been to the Conference Finals in 20 years before his arrival.
Golden State&rsquo;s fortunes took a major hit just minutes into Game 1 when Stephen Curry pulled up lame, clutching his left hamstring. The team initially called it &ldquo;tightness,&rdquo; but subsequent scans revealed a strain that would sideline the two-time MVP for the remainder of the series.
Curry&rsquo;s absence was devastating. In Game 1, the Warriors managed to win despite him being out for the majority of the game, and Golden State was within striking distance. But without him, the Warriors lacked spacing, cohesion, and a consistent scoring threat. Butler, whom the Warriors acquired midseason for a late title push, averaged a decent amount of points in the series but struggled to find rhythm without Curry drawing double teams. Draymond Green&rsquo;s defensive prowess and playmaking were neutralized by Minnesota&rsquo;s size and physicality.
Minnesota, meanwhile, smothered Golden State with a vaunted defense led by Jaden McDaniels, Rudy Gobert, and Edwards. The Wolves&rsquo; game plan was simple yet effective: deny Butler clean looks, collapse on drives, and force role players to beat them. Brandin Podziemski and Buddy Hield were rather inconsistent, while Jonathan Kuminga, though promising, lacked the polish to carry the scoring load for the entire series. The Warriors ultimately lost four straight games after taking the opener.
Timberwolves' strategic mastery&nbsp;
Minnesota&rsquo;s resurgence is as much about front-office vision as it is about Edwards&rsquo; emergence. The franchise made a controversial decision last summer, trading long-time star Karl-Anthony Towns &ndash; the face of the franchise for nearly a decade &ndash; to the New York Knicks in exchange for Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo.
Initially panned as an overreaction to last year&rsquo;s Conference Finals loss, the move has aged like fine wine. Randle brought a rugged interior presence and a scorer's mindset that perfectly complements Rudy Gobert&rsquo;s defense-first approach. In these playoffs, Randle has arguably been playing the best basketball of his life, often bullying smaller defenders in the post while spacing the floor just enough to allow Edwards room to operate.
DiVincenzo, a tenacious defender and underrated shooter, has been an x-factor despite struggling a bit in the playoffs. He has consistently hit timely threes while guarding opposing guards with a relentless motor. His chemistry with Edwards has flourished, allowing the Wolves to maintain intensity on both ends without sacrificing floor spacing.
Add in the steady leadership of Mike Conley and the rim protection of Gobert and Naz Reid off the bench and the perimeter defense by McDaniels and Nickeil Alexander-Walker, and you&rsquo;ve got one of the most well-balanced teams left in the playoffs.
With this series win, the Timberwolves have secured their second straight appearance in the Western Conference Finals &ndash; a feat that once seemed unimaginable for a franchise long plagued by mediocrity. They fell to Dallas in last year&rsquo;s WCF, but the lessons from that loss are clearly paying off.
This version of the Wolves is deeper, more experienced, and far more adaptable. They&rsquo;ve shown they can win gritty, defensive battles or shoot it out when the game opens up. Coach Chris Finch has masterfully balanced rotations and drawn up sets that accentuate Edwards&rsquo; strengths while keeping Randle, Gobert, and DiVincenzo involved.
The next step now is breaking through to the NBA Finals &ndash; something no Timberwolves team has ever accomplished.
Being the &lsquo;face of the league&rsquo;
As the NBA&rsquo;s long-standing icons gradually wind down their careers, the league is searching for its next torchbearer. While players like Jayson Tatum, Luka Dončić, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander are all in the mix, few have made as loud a postseason statement as Anthony Edwards.
His playoff numbers &mdash; 27.4 points, 6.5 rebounds, 5.6 assists per game &mdash; don&rsquo;t just tell the story of a rising superstar, they scream franchise cornerstone and future MVP. More importantly, Edwards has embraced the spotlight, asking for it and owning the pressure of delivering wins against the best in the world.
He&rsquo;s charismatic, fiercely competitive, and fearless. His ability to elevate his game in the postseason, rise above elite opponents, and close out games has drawn comparisons to legends of the past. And with every &ldquo;legend&rdquo; he defeats, Edwards inches closer to becoming one himself.
Anthony Edwards isn&rsquo;t just adding to his playoff resume &mdash; he&rsquo;s building a legacy. One legendary opponent at a time.
And if the &ldquo;legend killer&rdquo; keeps this up, the next generation of NBA stars might be defined by who manages to take him down.

Anthony Edwards continues his rise as the NBA’s “Legend Killer,” leading the Timberwolves past the Warriors to reach the WCF again.

Anthony Edwards adds to ‘legend killer’ legacy as Wolves eliminate Warriors in 5

The 2025 Western Conference Semifinals between the Oklahoma City Thunder and Denver Nuggets have lived up to the hype, with the series knotted at 2-2. As the teams prepare for a crucial Game 5 in Oklahoma City, both squads face pressing questions and necessary adjustments to gain the upper hand. With a trip to the Western Conference Finals on the line, every possession, coaching decision, and hustle play will matter more than ever.
-- -- --
Thunder's path to regaining control
Assert themselves on the boards
The Thunder&rsquo;s lack of consistent rebounding has emerged as one of their most glaring weaknesses in this series. Despite boasting athletic bigs and switchable wings, they&rsquo;ve repeatedly been outmuscled on the glass by Denver&rsquo;s physical frontcourt led by Nikola Jokic and Aaron Gordon. The Nuggets have often out-rebounded the Thunder, securing offensive boards that led to multiple second-chance scoring opportunities. Those extra possessions have proven costly for OKC in close games.
Part of the issue stems from the Thunder often playing smaller lineups, which prioritize speed and switchability over size and physicality. While that identity served them well in the regular season, playoff basketball demands toughness in the paint. Oklahoma City will need to play more of Chet Holmgren and Isaiah Hartenstein to go up against Jokic and Gordon, and commit more to boxing out and crashing the boards. Their guards must also help secure long rebounds and quickly push the ball in transition, turning defensive stops into offensive chances.
To win Game 5 and take control of the series, the Thunder cannot afford to give the Nuggets repeated second opportunities. Rebounding isn&rsquo;t just about size, it&rsquo;s about desire, positioning, and timing. If OKC can neutralize Denver&rsquo;s rebounding edge and limit their putback chances, it could be a decisive swing factor on their home floor.
Rediscover offensive fluidity
Oklahoma City has struggled to find its usual offensive rhythm over the past two games. The Thunder's offense is built on movement, ball-sharing, and improvisation &ndash; playing freely with joy and confidence. But as the series has worn on and the physicality has ramped up, OKC has looked more rigid and hesitant, settling for tough isolation plays instead of generating quality looks through movement.
In Games 3 and 4, Denver&rsquo;s defense disrupted OKC&rsquo;s pace by pressing up on ball-handlers and switching effectively on screens. The Thunder have sometimes become overly reliant on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander to bail them out in late-clock situations. While SGA is an elite shot-creator, Oklahoma City&rsquo;s offense thrives most when all five players are involved. Getting back to their roots &ndash; cutting off the ball, pushing in transition, and trusting each other&rsquo;s instincts &ndash; can unlock the offensive flow that&rsquo;s been missing.
Reclaiming that offensive identity also means trusting players like Cason Wallace and Isaiah Joe to take open shots and make quick decisions. Jalen Williams, who has flashed brilliance at times, must stay aggressive and attack mismatches. If the Thunder return to playing free and fearless, as they did in their Game 2 blowout win, they&rsquo;ll be much harder to guard and far more dangerous heading into a pivotal Game 5.
MVP-caliber performance from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
While SGA has delivered solid numbers throughout the series, Oklahoma City needs a transcendent Game 5 performance from their MVP candidate. Through four games, Gilgeous-Alexander is averaging 28.8 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 5.8 assists &ndash; but his impact hasn&rsquo;t always translated to late-game success. Denver has thrown multiple defenders at him, forcing tough midrange shots and limiting his trips to the free-throw line. For OKC to thrive, SGA must assert himself early and often, controlling the tempo and creating high-quality looks for both himself and his teammates.
This is the kind of moment where MVPs rise above the game plan. Whether it's hunting mismatches, collapsing the defense to kick out to shooters, or making timely defensive plays, SGA has the tools to take over. In Game 2, his 33-point performance was a reminder of what he&rsquo;s capable of when he&rsquo;s in attack mode and dictating the pace. The Thunder need that version of Shai to show up again in Game 5.
It&rsquo;s also about leadership. This young Thunder team looks to SGA not just for scoring, but for composure and direction in critical moments. With the home crowd behind him and the series on the line, this is his opportunity to put a stamp on his MVP-caliber season and carry his team one step closer to a conference finals berth.
Nuggets' strategies to steal Game 5
Elevate Nikola Jokic&rsquo;s impact
Nikola Jokic has not been his usual dominant self across all four games. While he&rsquo;s still managed to put up triple-doubles and impact the game in subtle ways, the Thunder have made him work harder than usual with their quick double teams and constant help defense. In Game 4, Jokic finished with 22 points on just 9-of-22 shooting&mdash;a rare inefficient night for the two-time MVP. For the Nuggets to win on the road, Jokic must return to the ultra-efficient playmaker and scorer who lifts everyone around him.
One adjustment could be to get Jokic more touches at the elbow and the top of the key, where he can orchestrate Denver&rsquo;s offense without dealing with immediate post pressure. From those areas, he can see the floor better and exploit mismatches or cutters. Additionally, running more two-man actions with Jamal Murray or Aaron Gordon could help relieve pressure and force OKC to defend multiple threats simultaneously.
Jokic&rsquo;s presence alone bends defenses, but when he&rsquo;s assertive and efficient, it unlocks the Nuggets&rsquo; full offensive potential. Denver will need their franchise cornerstone to set the tone with physicality, precision, and poise in the hostile OKC environment of Game 5.
Improved Three-Point shooting
The Nuggets&rsquo; offensive success often correlates with their outside shooting. In the games where they&rsquo;ve played, Denver pulled away with convincing wins. But when the shots haven&rsquo;t fallen, their offense has looked sluggish and overly reliant on Jokic or Murray to create something late in the shot clock. Getting back to crisp ball movement and creating open looks from the perimeter is a priority heading into Game 5.
Michael Porter Jr. and Christian Braun must convert the clean looks they&rsquo;re getting. Porter, in particular, has the shooting gravity to stretch OKC&rsquo;s defense and create spacing for Jokic&rsquo;s interior play. Even Aaron Gordon&rsquo;s willingness to take open threes can help Denver keep defenders honest. Making threes forces OKC to chase and rotate, which opens up driving lanes and cutting opportunities that Denver thrives on.
Expect head coach David Adelman to emphasize early ball reversals and inside-out play to generate quality three-point chances. If Denver shoots well from deep, it could swing momentum and silence the Paycom Center crowd in what promises to be a raucous Game 5 environment.
Boost bench production
In tight playoff matchups, bench production often makes the difference. For Denver, the second unit has been a mixed bag this series. They have a particularly shallow bench led by Russell Westbrook and Peyton Watson, and the Nuggets need consistent contributions from both of them to keep pace with OKC&rsquo;s energetic rotations.
The key is maintaining offensive rhythm and defensive intensity when Jokic sits. Braun&rsquo;s ability to defend, rebound, and finish in transition adds a valuable spark. Westbrook&rsquo;s experience and steady playmaking can provide structure when Murray rests. And Watson&rsquo;s length and athleticism make him a disruptive presence on both ends. Each of them must be ready to seize the moment in what could be the turning point of the series.
Adelman might also consider tightening his rotation or staggering starters more effectively to ensure a balance of scoring and defense. With so much on the line, every possession from the bench unit carries weight. If Denver&rsquo;s reserves can sustain leads &ndash; or even swing momentum &ndash; it could give them the edge they need to take Game 5 on the road.
-- -- --
As Game 5 approaches, the series hangs in the balance. Both teams have demonstrated resilience and adaptability, but only one can emerge with a crucial win to take control. The adjustments made and executed in this game will likely determine who advances and who faces an offseason of questions. In a battle between the Thunder and the Nuggets, Game 5 promises to be a war of wills, strategy, and superstar moments.

With the 2025 NBA Playoffs series tied 2-2, the Oklahoma City Thunder and Denver Nuggets prepare for a pivotal Game 5.

2025 NBA Playoffs: Key adjustments as Thunder, Nuggets look to seize series

San Antonio Spurs guard Stephon Castle has been named the 2024&ndash;25 NBA Rookie of the Year, marking the second consecutive season a Spurs player has earned the honor, following Victor Wembanyama's win last year. Castle secured 92 of 100 first-place votes, totaling 482 points in the voting, ahead of Atlanta's Zaccharie Risacher and Memphis' Jaylen Wells.&nbsp;
Selected fourth overall in the 2024 NBA Draft from the University of Connecticut, Castle led all rookies with 14.7 points per game, adding 4.1 assists, 3.7 rebounds, and 74 steals across 81 games, including 47 starts. He also made 95 three-pointers, showcasing his offensive versatility.&nbsp;
Castle's performance intensified late in the season, especially with Wembanyama and De'Aaron Fox sidelined. Over the final 30 games, he averaged 22.3 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 5.3 assists per 36 minutes, a feat matched only by LeBron James, Luka Dončić, and LaMelo Ball before turning 21.
His accolades include being named MVP of the 2025 Rising Stars Challenge during All-Star Weekend and earning Western Conference Rookie of the Month honors in January and March.
Castle joins Spurs legends David Robinson, Tim Duncan, and Wembanyama as Rookie of the Year recipients, solidifying San Antonio's reputation for developing top-tier talent.
With this award, Castle becomes the first UConn alum to win Rookie of the Year since Emeka Okafor in 2005, adding to his impressive resume that includes a 2024 NCAA championship and Big East Freshman of the Year honors.
Castle's emergence as a cornerstone for the Spurs signals a promising future for the franchise, building upon its storied history of nurturing young talent.

San Antonio Spurs guard Stephon Castle has been named the 2024–25 NBA Rookie of the Year.

Stephon Castle captures 2024–25 NBA Rookie of the Year award

Thunder sweep Grizzlies, sending a clear message about what&rsquo;s to come&nbsp;
The Oklahoma City Thunder have been one of the NBA&rsquo;s best stories all season long, and after an emphatic first-round sweep of the Memphis Grizzlies, it&rsquo;s clear they are not here just for experience &ndash; they are gunning for a championship.
Oklahoma City dispatched Memphis in four games with surgical precision, showcasing a level of maturity and dominance rarely seen from a team this young. The Thunder's suffocating defense, timely scoring, and superior depth overwhelmed a shorthanded Grizzlies squad (without Ja Morant for games 3 and 4), who had little answer for OKC&rsquo;s relentless two-way attack. In the series, the Thunder held Memphis to just 98.5 points per game, forcing them into 42% shooting from the field and a paltry 31% from three. Oklahoma City, meanwhile, averaged 112.8 points per game while shooting 48% from the field and 39% from beyond the arc.
The storyline wasn&rsquo;t just about team dominance &mdash; it was about individual ascension too.
Jalen Williams announced himself as a full-fledged star, scoring 20-plus points in all four games of the series. Williams averaged 23.5 points on 55% shooting, stepping up consistently when defenses collapsed on MVP candidate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. His ability to create off the dribble, hit timely threes, and finish through contact gave the Thunder the true secondary scorer that they will need in their upcoming playoff series and runs.
Williams' growth into a legitimate No. 2 option has transformed the Thunder offense. It&rsquo;s no longer just about SGA carrying the scoring burden as Williams&rsquo; rise allows OKC to maintain offensive pressure even when Gilgeous-Alexander faces aggressive traps and double-teams. If J-Dub continues this trajectory, the Thunder&rsquo;s ceiling goes from "contender" to "potential champion" quicker than anyone anticipated.
But the sweep wasn&rsquo;t just about star power. The offseason additions of Isaiah Hartenstein and Alex Caruso have already proven invaluable in the playoffs. Hartenstein, signed last summer to solidify the Thunder's interior defense, gave them an anchor in the paint that Memphis couldn&rsquo;t match. He averaged 9.5 rebounds and 2.2 blocks per game in the series, providing critical rim protection and a physical presence that neutralized Memphis&rsquo; attempts to attack the basket.
Meanwhile, Caruso &ndash; a veteran with championship pedigree &ndash; brought exactly what OKC envisioned: perimeter defense, toughness, and playoff poise. Tasked with guarding the Grizzlies&rsquo; best perimeter scorers, Caruso lived up to his defensive reputation, forcing turnovers and disrupting passing lanes. His versatility allowed the Thunder to switch freely across multiple positions, which completely shut down Memphis' offensive flow. Caruso&rsquo;s impact doesn&rsquo;t always show up in the box score, but his +15.2 net rating during the series speaks volumes about his influence.
Then there&rsquo;s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the prospective NBA MVP this season. While his numbers weren&rsquo;t eye-popping (24.8 points, 5.3 assists, and 4.8 rebounds per game on 46% shooting), it&rsquo;s important to note that Memphis threw everything at him defensively. He faced double teams on nearly every possession, saw box-and-ones at times, and constantly dealt with physicality off the ball.
Even with the Grizzlies&rsquo; full defensive attention, SGA remained steady, controlling the tempo and trusting his teammates to make plays. The scary part for the rest of the league? Gilgeous-Alexander has yet to truly erupt this postseason &ndash; and it's likely coming in the Thunder&rsquo;s playoff series to come.
If SGA can unleash his full arsenal in the later rounds, combining with Williams&rsquo; emergence and the defensive backbone of Hartenstein and Caruso, the Thunder become an even more terrifying opponent. That didn&rsquo;t even mention budding sophomore Chet Holmgren, who was a monster on both ends of the floor as well.&nbsp;
OKC&rsquo;s dominance over Memphis wasn&rsquo;t just a sweep &ndash; it was a statement. For a young team that many thought might need one more year to seriously contend, Oklahoma City is moving faster than expected. Their blend of youth, depth, defense, and star power has them looking like a juggernaut in the making. And if this first-round performance is any indication, the Thunder have no plans of slowing down.
The defense is suffocating. The offense is increasingly dynamic. The confidence is sky-high. Oklahoma City didn&rsquo;t just beat Memphis &ndash; they overwhelmed them, and in doing so, planted a clear signpost for the rest of the NBA.

The Thunder sweep the Grizzlies in the 2025 NBA Playoffs, showcasing dominant defense on their quest for a championship.

Another dominant first round sweep puts the OKC Thunder on track for a title

The NBA has officially announced the finalists for its 2024-25 season awards, spotlighting standout performances across the league.&nbsp;
Leading the Most Valuable Player (MVP) race are Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Oklahoma City Thunder), Nikola Jokić (Denver Nuggets), and Giannis Antetokounmpo (Milwaukee Bucks). Gilgeous-Alexander, who averaged a league-high 32.7 points per game, guided the Thunder to an NBA-best 68&ndash;14 record. Jokić delivered a stellar season with averages of 29.6 points, 12.7 rebounds, and 10.2 assists per game, while Antetokounmpo contributed 30.4 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 6.5 assists per game.
Defensive Player of the Year Finalists:
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Dyson Daniels (Atlanta Hawks)​</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Draymond Green (Golden State Warriors)​</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Evan Mobley (Cleveland Cavaliers)​</li>
</ul>
Notably, Victor Wembanyama of the San Antonio Spurs was ineligible due to playing only 46 games this season.&nbsp;
Most Improved Player Finalists:
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Cade Cunningham (Detroit Pistons)​</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Ivica Zubac (Los Angeles Clippers)​</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Dyson Daniels (Atlanta Hawks)</li>
</ul>
Rookie of the Year Finalists:
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Stephon Castle (San Antonio Spurs)​</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Zaccharie Risacher (Atlanta Hawks)​</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Jaylen Wells (Memphis Grizzlies)​</li>
</ul>
Sixth Man of the Year Finalists:
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Malik Beasley (Detroit Pistons)</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Ty Jerome (Cleveland Cavaliers)​</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Payton Pritchard (Boston Celtics)​</li>
</ul>
Clutch Player of the Year Finalists:
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Jalen Brunson (New York Knicks)​</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Anthony Edwards (Minnesota Timberwolves)​</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Nikola Jokić (Denver Nuggets)​</li>
</ul>
Coach of the Year Finalists:
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Kenny Atkinson (Cleveland Cavaliers)</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Ime Udoka (Houston Rockets)​</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">J.B. Bickerstaff (Detroit Pistons)​</li>
</ul>
The winners will be announced during the NBA Playoffs, with dates to be determined.​

The NBA has officially announced the finalists for its 2024-25 season awards.

NBA announces finalists for 2024-2025 NBA Awards

As the 2025 NBA Playoffs tip off, every team in the Eastern Conference brings with it a burning question. Some are looking to validate their dominance, others are hoping to make noise for the first time, and a few are simply trying to recapture playoff magic from the past. Here&rsquo;s one key question for each East playoff squad heading into this year&rsquo;s postseason.
Cleveland Cavaliers &ndash; Are they for real?
The Cavaliers were expected to take a leap under new head coach Kenny Atkinson, but few predicted it would be this significant. Cleveland posted a 64-18 record, up from 51 wins last season, and ranked eighth in the NBA in defensive rating (111.8) while climbing to the best in the league in offensive rating (121.0). It&rsquo;s a massive leap in two-way consistency, anchored by Evan Mobley&rsquo;s breakout campaign and a more dynamic offense tailored around Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland.
Mobley&rsquo;s development has been a game-changer. The 22-year-old averaged career-highs in points (18.5), rebounds (9.3), and assists (3.2), while maintaining elite rim protection (1.6 blocks per game). Offensively, his confidence as a shot creator and short-roll playmaker opened up space for the rest of the team. The Cavs now run more actions through Mobley, especially from the elbows, and his improved jump shot has made him far more difficult to guard.
But make no mistake &ndash; Mitchell remains the barometer. The All-Star guard battled injuries down the stretch but still averaged 24.0 points, 4.5 assists, and 5.0 rebounds on 44.3% shooting. If he can stay healthy and lead confidently on both ends, Cleveland has the pieces to make a legitimate run to the conference finals.
The Cavs have the metrics, the momentum, and the maturity. Now it&rsquo;s about proving they belong with the league&rsquo;s elite when the lights are the brightest.
Boston Celtics &ndash; Can they go back-to-back?
The reigning champions enter the playoffs with a sense of unfinished business &mdash; not because they failed last year, but because they&rsquo;re now chasing greatness. The Celtics finished 61-21 this season for back to back 60-win seasons. They had the league&rsquo;s second best net rating at +9.4, fueled by elite balance: second in offensive rating (119.5) and fourth in defensive rating (110.1).
Jayson Tatum continues to evolve as one of the NBA&rsquo;s most complete stars. His 26.8 points per game came with improved efficiency (58.2% true shooting) and a career-high 8.7 rebounds. Tatum has learned to pick his spots better, moving the ball when doubled and attacking mismatches when given space. Jaylen Brown, fresh off his Finals MVP last season, has become a more consistent creator as well, averaging 22.2 points.
Add in Kristaps Porzingis&rsquo; floor spacing and rim protection, Jrue Holiday&rsquo;s stability on both ends, and Derrick White&rsquo;s ability to do everything in between, and the Celtics are again the most complete team in basketball. But repeating is never easy. No team has done it since the Warriors in 2018, and even small injuries or matchup issues can derail a title defense.
Boston is built for this moment, but with every other East contender gunning for them, the question looms large: can they close the deal twice in a row?
New York Knicks &ndash; Can they stay healthy?
When fully healthy, the Knicks look like a team that can hang with anyone &mdash; and that includes Boston and Cleveland. But that&rsquo;s been the caveat all season. Jalen Brunson missed 17 games, Karl-Anthony Towns sat for 10, and OG Anunoby dealt with multiple absences due to elbow and hamstring issues. New York&rsquo;s starting five of Brunson, Hart, Bridges, Anunoby, and Towns had time to play with pace and their own style, and they looked formidable.
Brunson has been the Knicks&rsquo; engine, averaging 26.0 points and 7.3 assists while continuing to elevate in crunch time. His pairing with Towns gave New York a new level of offensive versatility, and Mikal Bridges&rsquo; ability to guard top wings allowed them to scheme freely. But concerns about wear and tear remain &mdash; especially under Tom Thibodeau, whose rotations have leaned heavily on his starters. All five starters have averaged in the top 15 of the most minutes played in the league, and that can likely put a strain on their bodies.
Depth is another concern. The Knicks rely on Precious Achiuwa, Cam Payne, Delon Wright, and Landry Shamet to absorb the bench minutes. A deep run hinges on all starters being available and fresh throughout the postseason. If any one piece breaks down, New York could fall short of its championship aspirations.
This is their most talented team in years &mdash; but availability may be just as important as ability.
Indiana Pacers &ndash; Do they have enough to make a deep run once more?
Last year, the Pacers surprised many by reaching the second round, aided in part by injuries to their first-round opponent. This year, expectations are higher &mdash; and the margin for error is thinner. Indiana finished 50-32 and ranked 9th in offensive rating at 115.4. Their identity remains clear: run fast, shoot threes, and trust in Tyrese Haliburton to control the tempo.
Haliburton posted 18.6 points and 9.2 assists per game this season, and despite shooting efficiency dipped slightly as teams began pressuring him more aggressively, he bounced back quite nicely and got back to the high level he was playing at. That&rsquo;s where Pascal Siakam comes in to help him and provide a stabilizing frontcourt presence, while defending opposing bigs.
Depth-wise, the Pacers have the tools. Myles Turner remains one of the league&rsquo;s best shot blockers, Andrew Nembhard has been solid alongside Haliburton, Bennedict Mathurin has been a spark off the bench, and Aaron Nesmith&rsquo;s development as a 3-and-D wing adds much-needed versatility. Still, the question remains: can they win when the pace slows and every possession becomes a grind?
Indiana is fun, fast, and fearless. But deep playoff success often requires more grit than style &mdash; and this postseason will test how much of both they truly possess.
Milwaukee Bucks &ndash; How lethal can the Giannis-Dame combo be?
It&rsquo;s been a bumpy road for the Bucks since pairing Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard, but they enter the playoffs with renewed hope. Injuries limited their time together but when both were on the floor, Milwaukee looked like a top 4 team in the East. The potential for a dominant inside-out attack remains, even as questions swirl around their chemistry and late-game execution.
Giannis put up another MVP-caliber campaign (30.4 PPG, 11.9 RPG, 6.5 APG) on 60.1% shooting, while Lillard added 24.9 points and 7.1 assists per game, albeit with a slight dip in efficiency (44.8 FG%, 37.6 3P%). Their pick-and-roll tandem has shown flashes of brilliance, especially with spacing provided by their teammates. But Milwaukee&rsquo;s defense remains a glaring concern, particularly at the point-of-attack.
Much of that responsibility falls on new head coach Doc Rivers, who took over midseason and has spent much of his tenure reshaping the defensive schemes. The team has shown better connectivity lately, but consistency is key. If the Bucks can get solid two-way contributions from Brook Lopez, Taurean Prince, and Kyle Kuzma, their ceiling rises considerably.
This postseason is the first true test of the Giannis-Dame partnership after a failed one last year. Can it deliver in crunch time and carry Milwaukee back to the Finals?
Detroit Pistons &ndash; Can they win a playoff series?
One of the most surprising stories of the season, the Detroit Pistons went from dead last in 2024 to securing the No. 6 seed in 2025 with a 44-38 record. It&rsquo;s a dramatic turnaround fueled by internal growth, better health, and the emergence of Cade Cunningham as a legitimate star. Cunningham averaged 26.1 points, 9.1 assists, and 6.1 rebounds, and improved his shooting splits across the board &mdash; including a respectable 35.6% from three.
Head coach J.B Bickerstaff deserves credit for stabilizing the young roster. Jaden Ivey (despite being out for the year to injury), Ausar Thompson, and Jalen Duren have all taken steps forward in their roles, and the addition of veterans Malik Beasley, Tim Hardaway Jr., and Tobias Harris has added much-needed floor spacing and leadership. The Pistons ranked 10th in defensive rating at 112.5 &mdash; a massive leap from their abysmal finish last season
Still, playoff basketball is a different animal. Detroit lacks experience, and their margin for error will be slim. Can Cunningham carry the offense when defenses trap him? Can their shooters hit timely shots? And can Duren hold his own against seasoned playoff bigs?
Winning a series would be monumental for the franchise &mdash; and a sign that Detroit&rsquo;s rebuild is truly behind them.
Orlando Magic &ndash; Can their offense hold up?
There&rsquo;s no questioning the Magic&rsquo;s defensive pedigree. They finished second in defensive rating (109.1) and boast a switch-heavy scheme built around length, versatility, and discipline. But the big question entering the playoffs: can they score enough? Orlando ranked just 27th in offensive rating (108.9), and the loss of Jalen Suggs and Mo Wagner due to injuries further thins their already-limited shot creation.
Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner carry the bulk of the offense, but both have faced inconsistent stretches. Teams often sag off sub-par shooters like Cory Joseph or Jonathan Isaac, daring Orlando to hit perimeter shots &mdash; something they&rsquo;ve struggled to do all year. Against Boston&rsquo;s elite defense, those issues could be magnified.
Orlando will try to control tempo, force turnovers, and win the possession battle. They&rsquo;ve been excellent in close games, but whether they can consistently generate efficient halfcourt looks remains uncertain.
Defense may win championships, but the Magic need buckets to even stay in the fight.
Miami Heat &ndash; Will they be able to replicate the Heat playoff magic this year?
The Heat have built a reputation as a team you never want to face in the playoffs &mdash; especially as a lower seed. In 2023, they made the Finals as an 8-seed. In 2024, they made the Celtics work despite key injuries. But can they pull off another surprise run this year? The roster remains largely intact, but injuries, aging stars, and inconsistency have clouded their outlook.
Without Jimmy Butler, Bam Adebayo must step up on offense while anchoring the defense. Tyler Herro&rsquo;s scoring punch is much needed, and the role players should contribute as well. But questions linger around depth and chemistry within their lineups after a shaky year.
The Heat finished just 21st in offensive rating (112.4) and 9th in defensive rating (112.0), a sign that the margins are tighter than ever. Still, if any team knows how to punch above its weight class, it&rsquo;s this one. Erik Spoelstra will maximize every mismatch, he always finds a way to manipulate the opposing team.
Don&rsquo;t count them out just yet but don&rsquo;t expect the same magic to happen each and every time as well.

Breaking down the biggest question facing each team in the 2025 NBA Eastern Conference Playoffs.

2025 NBA Eastern Conference Playoffs: Each team’s biggest question in the playoffs

Views are the author&rsquo;s and do not necessarily reflect the views of the website.
As the 2024-25 NBA regular season winds down, it&rsquo;s time to spotlight the standout performers who rose above the rest. From breakout stars to defensive anchors and rookie sensations, here are my picks for the major awards this season &mdash; including some deserving runner-ups and honorable mentions.
<h3>Most Improved Player: Dyson Daniels (Atlanta Hawks)</h3>
Runner-ups: Ivica Zubac, Christian Braun
Notes: Dyson Daniels has made the leap. After being traded to the Atlanta Hawks, Daniels not only found a larger role but embraced it fully, evolving into a dynamic two-way guard. His length, defensive instincts, and vastly improved shooting have made him one of the league&rsquo;s biggest revelations. Daniels went from being a defensive specialist to a legitimate secondary playmaker and spot-up threat, thriving alongside Trae Young. Daniels also has a legitimate case for the Defensive Player of the Year after leading the league in steals, and this only strengthens his case for Most Improved.
Ivica Zubac has a notable case for runner-up after seeing growth as a more consistent interior anchor for the Clippers. Zubac also had a huge year offensively, often conniving with James Harden for lob and post opportunities. Meanwhile Christian Braun carved out a bigger offensive role in Denver with increased minutes and responsibility as he saw the biggest increase in PPG from over a season ago.
<h3>Sixth Man of the Year: Payton Pritchard (Boston Celtics)</h3>
Runner-ups: Malik Beasley, Ty Jerome
Pritchard stepped up in Boston&rsquo;s championship-caliber rotation, giving them much-needed energy, scoring punch, and floor-spacing off the bench. He played with confidence, controlled tempo, and was crucial during clutch stretches when starters rested. His knack for scoring in bunches and orchestrating the offense when Jrue Holiday or Derrick White sat was invaluable.
Beasley&rsquo;s sharpshooting in Detroit has stood out, garnering a league-2nd-best 319 threes as a bench player while Ty Jerome&rsquo;s steady second-unit play in Cleveland has them at the top of the East and worthy of 6th man consideration.
<h3>Defensive Player of the Year: Draymond Green (Golden State Warriors)</h3>
Runner-ups: Evan Mobley, Lu Dort
This should have been Victor Wembanyama&rsquo;s award if not for the blood clot injury, but here we are. There should be a winner, and my pick would be Draymond Green. Even in his 30s, Green remains a defensive savant. He quarterbacked Golden State&rsquo;s schemes, constantly switching, communicating, and anchoring a defense that ranked among the best post-All-Star break. While Green&rsquo;s impact isn&rsquo;t always in the stat sheet, his presence turned the Warriors into a top-tier defensive team when he was on the floor.
Mobley continued to showcase elite versatility for Cleveland, while Dort was once again a perimeter nightmare for opposing guards and wings. Both Mobley and Dort deserve these runner-up spots due to their teams (Cleveland and OKC) performing well because of them.
<h3>All-Defensive Teams</h3>
1st Team: Draymond Green, Evan Mobley, Lu Dort, Amen Thompson, Dyson Daniels 2nd Team: Jalen Williams, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jaren Jackson Jr., Toumani Camara, Ivica Zubac
Amen Thompson&rsquo;s disruptive length and switchability earned him a First-Team nod as a rookie, while Dyson Daniels brought relentless on-ball pressure. On the Second Team, Shai&rsquo;s defensive improvements were evident this year, and Camara turned heads with his rugged, fearless wing defense in Portland. Zubac was a rock-solid rim protector all season long.
<h3>Rookie of the Year: Stephon Castle (San Antonio Spurs)</h3>
Runner-up: Zaccharie Risacher
Castle made an immediate impact in San Antonio with his poise, defense, and playmaking. He embraced the challenge of playing next to Victor Wembanyama and flourished as a stabilizing backcourt force. Castle's two-way effort, ability to guard multiple positions, and unselfish offense stood out in a deep rookie class.
Risacher showcased his offensive polish and smooth shooting stroke in Atlanta and made a strong late push for the award.
<h3>All-Rookie Teams</h3>
1st Team: Stephon Castle, Zaccharie Risacher, Alex Sarr, Jaylen Wells, Zach Edey 2nd Team: Bub Carrington, Isaiah Collier, Matas Buzelis, Kel&rsquo;el Ware, Yves Missi
From Sarr&rsquo;s shot-blocking to Jaylen Wells&rsquo; scoring flashes, this rookie class was filled with gems despite a no-clear-star tag. Edey proved his game could translate at the next level, and Buzelis quietly put together a solid two-way campaign. Carrington and Collier each had stretches of brilliance at the point guard spot for their respective teams.
<h3>Coach of the Year: Kenny Atkinson (Cleveland Cavaliers)</h3>
Runner-ups: J.B. Bickerstaff, Tyronn Lue Honorable Mentions: Ime Udoka, JJ Redick, Mark Daigneault
Kenny Atkinson&rsquo;s return to head coaching was a rousing success. He reshaped the culture in Cleveland, maximizing the young core&rsquo;s strengths and installing a balanced system that translated to wins. The Cavaliers became the best team in the East, and Atkinson&rsquo;s ability to unlock both offense and defense from a good squad last year to a better squad this year was remarkable.
Bickerstaff turned Detroit around after a league-worst record , and Lue once again juggled egos and lineups with the Clippers to keep them near the top of the West despite losing Paul George in free agency.
<h3>Clutch Player of the Year: Jalen Brunson (New York Knicks)</h3>
Runner-ups: Anthony Edwards, Stephen Curry
Jalen Brunson owned the fourth quarter. His combination of poise, patience, and pure bucket-getting in crunch time made him one of the league&rsquo;s most dangerous closers. Whether isolating, using the pick-and-roll, or getting to his spots, Brunson delivered when it mattered most &mdash; and turned Madison Square Garden into his stage.
Edwards embraced the big moments in Minnesota to have one of the most points in clutch time, while Curry remained a timeless threat late in games.
<h3>All-NBA Teams</h3>
1st Team: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Nikola Jokic, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Jayson Tatum, Anthony Edwards 2nd Team: Karl-Anthony Towns, LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Cade Cunningham, Donovan Mitchell 3rd Team: Jalen Brunson, Evan Mobley, Jaren Jackson Jr., James Harden, Ivica Zubac
SGA led the way with MVP-level consistency and picking Jokic, Antetokounmpo, and Tatum were no brainers.Edwards made his All-NBA debut with a huge leap in production and impact, being a top 5 scorer in the league. Cade Cunningham took over the reins in Detroit and finally stayed healthy, while Zubac&rsquo;s defensive presence and scoring efficiency earned him a well-deserved spot among the league&rsquo;s elite.
<h3>Most Valuable Player: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Oklahoma City Thunder)</h3>
Runner-up: Nikola Jokic Honorable mention: Giannis Antetokounmpo
Rather than rehash the argument, I&rsquo;ll let this piece explain it in full detail: 🔗 <a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/stories/making-shai-gilgeousalexanders-case-as-the-2025-nba-mvp">Making Shai Gilgeous-Alexander&rsquo;s case as the 2025 NBA MVP</a>

As the 2024-25 NBA regular season winds down, it’s time to spotlight the standout performers who rose above the rest.

OPINION: Picking the 2024-2025 NBA Awards winners

The 2024&ndash;25 NBA MVP race has been one of the most compelling in recent years. This discussion has proven to be a two-man race between Nikola Jokic, the Denver Nuggets&rsquo; maestro of efficiency and triple-doubles, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the engine powering the Oklahoma City Thunder&rsquo;s stunning rise to the top of the league.
Despite the 3-time MVP Jokic continuing to post staggering numbers and lead the Denver Nuggets to relative success, this season however, there's an argument to be made that Shai Gilgeous-Alexander deserves the MVP more than any other player.
While both superstars are delivering historically great seasons, SGA not only has established himself as one of the premier scorers in the league, but his leadership, efficiency, and two-way play have been crucial in leading the Oklahoma City Thunder to the best record in the NBA.&nbsp;
This isn&rsquo;t to discredit what Jokić has accomplished &ndash; he&rsquo;s been outstanding once again for the 5th year in a row. But this season, SGA&rsquo;s production, leadership, two-way dominance, and the historic heights he&rsquo;s lifted his team make him a solid choice for this year&rsquo;s plum.
<h3>Statistical Dominance</h3>
Not only is Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leading the NBA in scoring with an impressive 32.7 PPG, but he's doing so with a level of efficiency that makes his production even more remarkable. His 64.5 TS% (True Shooting Percentage) (measuring shooting efficiency by accounting for both field goals and free throws) is the second-best in NBA history for a player averaging over 32 PPG. This efficiency level places him in rare air, joining only the likes of Wilt Chamberlain and LeBron James as players who&rsquo;ve managed such remarkable numbers over an entire season. This ability to score efficiently while still putting up high-volume numbers highlights SGA's incredible skill as a scorer.
What further bolsters his MVP case is his consistency. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's performance streaks are jaw-dropping, as he is now only the 7th player in NBA history to record 60 consecutive games of 20 or more points, an achievement that emphasizes his reliability as a go-to scorer night in and night out. To put that into perspective, only players like Wilt Chamberlain (twice), Oscar Robertson, Michael Jordan, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Kobe Bryant, and Kevin Durant have accomplished such a feat. This level of sustained excellence, coupled with the fact that SGA has done this while playing on a young, evolving team, truly sets him apart as a player who not only shows up every night but consistently delivers when his team needs him most.
Beyond scoring, SGA has been a clutch performer. Gilgeous-Alexander is the go-to player for Oklahoma City both in blowout and tight games, and his ability to deliver in those moments has been nothing short of remarkable. His clutch statistics place him in the upper echelon of the league&rsquo;s elite finishers, reinforcing the value he brings to his team when the stakes are highest.
<h3>Defensive and Advanced Metrics</h3>
SGA&rsquo;s impact on the defensive end has been equally impressive. Not only is he second in the league in steals, showcasing his ability to disrupt passing lanes and create fast-break opportunities, but he&rsquo;s also first among guards in blocks, showing his ability to protect the rim and provide crucial defense in the paint. His defensive versatility has been a game-changer for Oklahoma City, allowing him to guard multiple positions and provide a two-way presence that&rsquo;s rare for a player of his offensive caliber. Beyond the raw stats, SGA&rsquo;s defensive metrics, including his Defensive Box Plus-Minus (DBPM), demonstrate his value in stopping opponents and contributing to one of the league's top defenses.
Perhaps the most striking aspect of his impact is how advanced analytics highlight his all-around value. He leads the league in EPM (Estimated Plus-Minus) and EW (Estimated Wins), which are advanced metrics that measure a player's overall contribution to his team's success. His offensive EPM ranks first, while his defensive EPM is 95th percentile, an incredible feat for a player known primarily for his offensive output. These metrics are crucial, as they show that SGA&rsquo;s influence transcends traditional statistics. SGA is not just a scorer; he is making a difference across all facets of the game.
<h3>Team Impact and Leadership</h3>
As the best player on the Oklahoma City Thunder, SGA has led them to an 16-game lead in the Western Conference over the 2nd place Houston Rockets. This is a truly remarkable feat considering the team&rsquo;s relative inexperience and youth. The Thunder&rsquo;s net rating of 12.8 when he&rsquo;s on the court is the second best net rating of all-time, just behind the 1995-1996 Chicago Bulls.&nbsp;
What&rsquo;s even more impressive is that SGA has done all of this without Chet Holmgren for most of the season, who was out 50 games due to injury. Additionally, key pieces like Isaiah Hartenstein, Lu Dort, Jalen Williams, and Alex Caruso have all missed games of their own across the season. SGA&rsquo;s leadership has been the driving force behind their success, and his ability to elevate his teammates &mdash; particularly in high-pressure moments &mdash; has been a testament to his basketball IQ and maturity.
In addition to his on-court contributions, SGA&rsquo;s leadership qualities have been crucial in developing the Thunder&rsquo;s young core. His ability to be a vocal leader, mentor to younger players, and lead by example has fostered an environment of growth and success in Oklahoma City.&nbsp;
<h3>On this historic race against Jokic</h3>
It's important to note that Jokic is also having another historically good season and is certainly worthy of MVP consideration. His triple-double averages and ability to dominate games in every aspect of play make him one of the most well-rounded players the NBA has ever seen. However, while Jokić's individual brilliance is undeniable, what sets Shai Gilgeous-Alexander apart this season is the way he has led his team to unprecedented success despite being on a much younger, less experienced roster. While Jokić is the undisputed leader of the Nuggets and already a 3-time NBA MVP. SGA has carried a relatively young team that was expected to be 1-2 years away from title contention to the best record in the league. Both players are extraordinary, but SGA&rsquo;s impact on the overall success of his team this season alone should give him the edge.
Additionally, while Jokić&rsquo;s advanced stats are historically great (averaging a triple-double with 29.6 PPG, 12.7 RPG, and 10.2 APG and ranking all in top 3 of each of those categories), SGA&rsquo;s contributions have been equally, if not more, impressive given the context of his team's development. Jokić&rsquo;s ability to elevate his teammates with his unique playmaking is undeniable, but SGA&rsquo;s leadership and all-around contributions have propelled the Thunder to an incredible level, with their 16-game lead in the Western Conference serving as the clearest testament to his importance.
&ndash; &ndash; &ndash;
In a season where we&rsquo;ve witnessed incredible performances across the league from both players, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander rose to the top along with OKC. If this was any other season in place, Jokic could have been easily a unanimous choice for the award.&nbsp;
But this year, whether it's scoring efficiently, leading his team, or providing defensive versatility, SGA has done it all. His case for MVP is not just based on impressive statistics &mdash; it&rsquo;s about the way he has shaped the identity of the Oklahoma City Thunder, bringing them to the forefront of NBA contention. From his historic scoring streak to his defensive contributions, there&rsquo;s no doubt that this is the season where SGA has established himself as the most valuable player in the NBA.

NBA MVP 2025 frontrunner Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has led the OKC Thunder with elite stats, clutch play, and two-way play.

Dez