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Mavericks

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

Fresh off a contract buyout with Portland, free-agent center Deandre Ayton has agreed to a two-year deal with the Los Angeles Lakers, which includes a player option for the second season, sources reported via Shams Charania and ESPN.
Ayton, the No. 1 overall pick in 2018, averaged 14.4 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 1.0 blocks over 40 games last season with Portland, shooting 56.6% from the field. Between his remaining Blazers salary and the Lakers' deal, Ayton will earn roughly $34 million for the upcoming season. He provides Los Angeles with a much-needed lob threat and inside presence to support the Luka Doncic-LeBron James tandem.
Lakers president Rob Pelinka and Ayton&rsquo;s representatives, Nima Namakian and Bill Duffy, finalized the contract quickly once Ayton cleared waivers &ndash; the Lakers had been heavily linked to him amid interest from teams like Indiana and Milwaukee. Analysts noted L.A. used their full mid-level exception (~$16.6M total) to secure him, capping the roster near the second luxury-tax apron.
Despite his efficient play over seven NBA seasons &ndash; averaging 16.4 points and 10.5 rebounds &ndash; Ayton's tenure in Portland was marred by locker room concerns, including tardiness, missed flights, and occasional outbursts. The Blazers opted to part ways amid a crowded frontcourt and behavioral red flags.
ANALYSIS: Ayton replaces a glaring weakness at center and gives the Lakers an interior boost, enhancing rim protection and pick-and-roll depth. The contract maximizes available cap space, but will limit further moves due to luxury tax constraints. While Ayton adds size, some analysts question his intensity and consistency in LeBron-anchored rotations. But still, Ayton will be relied upon heavily as a starting center in the league.&nbsp;
This move gives the Lakers the center they desperately needed, and may cap off their offseason priorities, but the true impact will hinge on Ayton&rsquo;s fit, effort, and chemistry next to L.A.'s stars.

Fresh off a contract buyout with Portland, free-agent center Deandre Ayton has agreed to a two-year deal with the Los Angeles Lakers.

Lakers land Deandre Ayton in two-year deal after Blazers buyout

The Milwaukee Bucks have made headlines in this year&rsquo;s NBA free agency after signing center Myles Turner to a four-year, $107 million deal, according to ESPN&rsquo;s Shams Charania.&nbsp;
Turner will be filling the void left by Brook Lopez (after Lopez signed with the Clippers) to strengthen the Bucks&rsquo; frontcourt presence. To accommodate the move, the Bucks made the surprising decision to waive nine-time All-Star Damian Lillard, stretching his remaining $112.6 million over five years under the NBA&rsquo;s stretch provision.
Turner, who averaged 14.1 points, 6.8 rebounds, and two blocks per game last year with the Pacers, brings both shot-blocking and floor-spacing to Milwaukee. The deal includes a player option in the final season, offering flexibility to both parties.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, Portland&rsquo;s loss of its franchise guard marks a major salary-cap shift for the Bucks, positioning Turner as a focal point for their postseason core.
Waiving Lillard, who is recovering from a ruptured Achilles, frees up immediate cap space and salary flexibility.
ANALYSIS: Milwaukee has started retooling once again around their superstar, and adding Turner enhances interior defense and shooting. This is an ideal complement to Antetokounmpo&rsquo;s skill set. For Lillard&rsquo;s future, now being a free agent amidst recovery, he will receive his full salary over five years, but remains searchable by contenders once healthy.
The Bucks have clearly recalibrated, reshaping their roster with swift and bold moves. While laying groundwork for continued contention, these decisions also signal a high-stakes gamble on internal cohesion and strategic direction moving forward.

The Bucks have made headlines in this year’s NBA free agency after signing center Myles Turner to a four-year, $107 million deal.

Bucks sign Myles Turner, waive Damian Lillard in bold offseason moves

The Oklahoma City Thunder have secured their franchise cornerstone by signing reigning MVP and Finals MVP Shai Gilgeous‑Alexander to a four-year, $285.4 million supermax extension, according to ESPN&rsquo;s Shams Charania.
This new supermax is the largest annual NBA contract in history at approximately $71.35 million per season. The deal runs through the 2030-31 season, anchoring Oklahoma City&rsquo;s title-contending core.
SGA&rsquo;s 2024&ndash;25 campaign was historic. He led the league with 32.7 points per game, added 6.4 assists, 5.0 rebounds, and 1.7 steals, earning both regular-season and Finals MVP honors while guiding the Thunder to their first NBA championship in Oklahoma City. In the Finals, he averaged nearly 30 points per game, solidifying his ascent into elite league company alongside legends like Jordan, O&rsquo;Neal, and Abdul‑Jabbar.
Thunder GM Sam Presti called the move a decisive step in sustaining the franchise's momentum: &ldquo;He&rsquo;s gotten better every single year,&rdquo; Presti said, acknowledging the player&rsquo;s cultural and competitive impact. The structure allows OKC to retain financial flexibility, keeping SGA locked in at historic value while preserving space to build a supporting cast around him.
ANALYSIS: This historical precedent allows SGA to join an exclusive group with Michael Jordan, Shaquille O&rsquo;Neal, and Kareem Abdul‑Jabbar as the only players to win MVP, Finals MVP, and a scoring title in a single season. With this extension, the Thunder secure their generational talent at least through his age-33 season, ensuring continuity after their breakthrough title run. Despite the record-setting deal, OKC remains positioned to leverage its youth, draft assets, and cap flexibility for future moves. 
This supermax extension solidifies Shai Gilgeous‑Alexander&rsquo;s status as the face of the Thunder for the next half-decade. At the peak of his powers, he ensures Oklahoma City&rsquo;s championship aspirations remain front-and-center &ndash; and the Thunder&rsquo;s window for dominance stays wide open.

The Oklahoma City Thunder have secured their franchise cornerstone SGAto a four-year, $285.4 million supermax extension.

Shai Gilgeous‑Alexander seals future with OKC after record $285M supermax

The New York Knicks took an early and strategic step in free agency by signing Jordan Clarkson and Guerschon Yabusele, as reported by ESPN&rsquo;s Shams Charania.&nbsp;
The Knicks aim to strengthen a bench that was a liability during their Eastern Conference Finals run. Clarkson, a 2021 Sixth Man of the Year, is set to join on a veteran's minimum contract once his Jazz buyout clears. Known for delivering instant scoring off the bench, Clarkson gives the Knicks a trusted offensive spark when Jalen Brunson rests or the offense stalls.
On the frontcourt side, New York inked Guerschon Yabusele to a two-year, $12 million deal using their taxpayer mid-level exception. The 6'8" versatile forward averaged 11.0 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 38% from deep for Philadelphia last year, revitalizing his NBA career after a standout summer with Team France at the Olympics. Yabusele brings physicality, floor-spacing, and grit &ndash; areas the Knicks sorely needed to reinforce.
ANALYSIS: These additions immediately address New York's most significant roster gaps: bench scoring and depth in their rotation. Clarkson and Yabusele slot into a blossoming rotation alongside established pieces like Mitchell Robinson and Miles McBride, giving the Knicks a stronger nine-man core.&nbsp;
However, the signings push the Knicks up to the &ldquo;second apron&rdquo; of the salary cap, potentially necessitating subtle moves to maintain flexibility.
Moving forward, the Knicks are expected to evaluate minor trades or minimum-aiming signings to solidify their roster while avoiding harsh financial limits. Meanwhile, the head coach hunt continues, although the front office has made it clear they&rsquo;re building a deeper, more reliable team around Brunson, Towns, and company.

The New York Knicks took an early and strategic step in free agency by signing Jordan Clarkson and Guerschon Yabusele.

Knicks sign Jordan Clarkson, Guerschon Yabusele to bolster bench

Three contending NBA teams for next season &ndash; the Houston Rockets, Denver Nuggets, and Atlanta Hawks &ndash; have each made significant roster moves this offseason.
In separate deals reported by ESPN&rsquo;s NBA insider Shams Charania, all three teams are signaling aggressive shifts in direction ahead of the 2025-26 NBA season.
The Houston Rockets are going all‑in this summer. After acquiring Kevin Durant in a blockbuster trade with the Suns, Houston shored up its core by re-signing Fred VanVleet on a 2‑year, $50M deal (with a player option), extending Steven Adams, and re-upping coach Ime Udoka. Now in free agency, they have landed veteran 3‑and‑D forward Dorian Finney‑Smith (4 years, $53M) to improve perimeter defense along with his reliable floor-spacing skills. Then they signed Clint Capela for more depth at their center position, and with $14M in cap space remaining, Houston is finalizing its championship roster.
Meanwhile, the Denver Nuggets addressed frontcourt depth by trading for center Jonas Valančiūnas from Sacramento in a straight-up swap for Dario Saric. Valančiūnas, averaging 10.4 points and 7.7 rebounds last season, will provide Nikola Jokić steady backup minutes and additional interior toughness. Despite moving Saric&rsquo;s cap hit, Denver stays under the first tax apron, preserving financial flexibility.
However, the biggest story of Denver&rsquo;s offseason has been acquiring Cam Johnson, who was traded in for Michael Porter Jr. and a future first-round pick. Moreover, the Nuggets have brought back former Nugget champion in 2023, Bruce Brown, on a minimum deal.
The Atlanta Hawks focused on spacing and backcourt versatility. They completed a sign‑and‑trade for wing Nickeil Alexander‑Walker (4 years, $62M, with player options and Trae Young playing a recruit role), and signed sharpshooter Luke Kennard to a 1‑year, $11M deal to boost 3‑point range off the bench. These moves aim to complement Trae Young while improving perimeter defense and shooting.
ANALYSIS: For the Rockets, they have dramatically elevated their ceiling, as Durant adds star power, VanVleet brings court leadership, and Finney-Smith and Capela shore up their defense. The franchise is firmly in win-now mode. The Nuggets have secured Valančiūnas to add size behind Jokić, and then Johnson and Brown are strengthening their bench rotation and sustaining their championship window. For the Hawks, these perimeter additions in Alexander-Walker and Kennard mean they prioritize spacing and two-way flexibility after also trading for Kristaps Porzingis days earlier. This is signaling readiness to support Young in a deeper push.
&ndash; &ndash; &ndash;
These strategic moves reflect each team&rsquo;s goals: Houston&rsquo;s aggressive contender build, Denver&rsquo;s championship continuity, and Atlanta&rsquo;s roster refinement. The summer&rsquo;s first wave sets a sharp tone &ndash; expect these teams to command attention come next season.

Three contending NBA teams for next season – the Rockets, Nuggets, and Hawks – have each made significant roster moves.

Rockets, Nuggets, Hawks retool rosters with major offseason shakeups

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

The Cleveland Cavaliers and Charlotte Hornets made waves with two notable offseason moves: Cleveland acquired Lonzo Ball, while Charlotte landed Collin Sexton, both swaps addressing team needs and future direction. Both deals were reported separately by ESPN&rsquo;s Shams Charania.
Cavaliers land Lonzo Ball
Cleveland secured Ball from the Chicago Bulls in exchange for Isaac Okoro, aiming to boost their backcourt creativity. Ball, a former No. 2 overall pick, averaged 7.6 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 3.3 assists over 35 games last season after returning from extensive knee surgeries. His career averages &ndash; 11.4 ppg, 5.5 rpg, 5.8 apg &ndash; highlight his value as a versatile facilitator and defensive prowess.
Cleveland is taking a calculated risk on Ball&rsquo;s health, but his size, playmaking, and defensive upside fit neatly behind Darius Garland as a backup PG. Meanwhile, Okoro brings defensive energy and youth to the Bulls, who are currently rebuilding and are collecting young talent.
Sexton finds new home in Charlotte
Meanwhile, the Charlotte Hornets have added veteran guard Collin Sexton from the Utah Jazz, sending Jusuf Nurkićand a 2030 second-round pick to Utah. Sexton averaged 18.4 points, 4.2 assists, and shot 40.6% from beyond the arc in 63 games, bringing proven scoring punch and his signature defensive, hustling game to a guard-heavy Hornets rotation.
The trade bolsters Charlotte&rsquo;s bench depth but tightens competition at guard, potentially impacting players they drafted in the recent draft, including Kon Knueppel and Liam McNeeley.
<h3>Trade Implications</h3>
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
Team
</td>
<td>
Gain
</td>
<td>
Loss
</td>
<td>
Key Impact
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Cavs
</td>
<td>
Lonzo Ball (playmaking)
</td>
<td>
Isaac Okoro (defense)
</td>
<td>
Enhanced ball-handling; health remains a concern
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Bulls
</td>
<td>
Isaac Okoro (young wing)
</td>
<td>
Lonzo Ball (injury-prone)
</td>
<td>
Youthful defense, salary matching
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Hornets
</td>
<td>
Collin Sexton (scoring)
</td>
<td>
Jusuf Nurkić + 2nd-round pick
</td>
<td>
Bench scoring boost, backcourt crowding
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Jazz
</td>
<td>
Jusuf Nurkić (frontcourt)
</td>
<td>
Collin Sexton + pick
</td>
<td>
More size inside, relief for guard development
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
ANALYSIS: Both moves reflect strategic recalibration: Cleveland boosts its offensive engine, Charlotte injects bench scoring, Utah shores up its frontcourt, and Chicago focuses on youth. These trades set the stage for a season defined by fit, health, and long-term planning.

The Cavaliers and Hornets made waves with two notable offseason moves, acquiring Lonzo Ball and Collin Sexton respectively.

NBA offseason moves: Lonzo Ball to the Cavaliers; Collin Sexton to the Hornets

Minnesota has taken decisive steps into the offseason, re-signing both Julius Randle and Naz Reid, according to ESPN&rsquo;s Shams Charania.
Randle and Reid have both been key cogs in their back-to-back Western Conference Finals runs, with Randle playing perhaps the best basketball of his life in the Wolves&rsquo; recent playoff run.
Julius Randle resigns for 3 Years, $100M Three-time All-Star Julius Randle has agreed to a three-year, $100 million deal with the Wolves, including a player option in 2027&ndash;28. Randle averaged 18.7 ppg and 7.1 rpg in his first season in Minnesota, elevating to 21.7 ppg on over 50% shooting during the playoffs. With this deal, Minnesota retains its versatile forward, officially securing its secondary scoring option around Anthony Edwards.
Fan favorite Naz Reid secures 5 Years for $125M Rising off his Sixth Man of the Year performance from two seasons ago and an integral part of the Wolves&rsquo; current young core, Naz Reid has inked a five-year, $125 million extension with the Wolves. Reid, 25, averaged 14.2 ppg, 6.0 rpg, and showcased 37.9% from deep, solidifying his role as a modern stretch big and a viable scoring option for Minnesota.
ANALYSIS: These moves by the Wolves signify their intention to maintain roster continuity, as both signings reinforce the Wolves&rsquo; rotation and ensure consistency following their recent deep playoff runs. Although Minnesota stays below the second luxury-tax apron, this likely means key free agent Nickeil Alexander‑Walker might walk away in free agency.&nbsp;
Securing Randle and Reid ensures Minnesota heads into 2025&ndash;26 with its championship core intact. With Randle&rsquo;s scoring and Reid's bench punch, the Wolves boast a three-man core that provides balance, floor spacing, and defensive reliability along with superstar Anthony Edwards. All in all, the Wolves are poised to build on their momentum and chase that elusive first-ever NBA Finals appearance.

Minnesota has taken decisive steps into the offseason, re-signing both Julius Randle and Naz Reid, according to Shams Charania.

Timberwolves lock in core; resign Julius Randle and Naz Reid

Nine-time All-Star Kyrie Irving has opted out of his $43 million player option and agreed to a three-year, $119 million extension with the Dallas Mavericks, according to ESPN&rsquo;s Shams Charania.
The deal, which includes a player option for the 2027&ndash;28 season, comes as Irving recovers from a torn ACL sustained in March and underscores a mutual commitment to anchor Dallas&rsquo;s core alongside Anthony Davis and presumed incoming rookie to be drafted no.1 overall in this year&rsquo;s draft Cooper Flagg.
Last season, Irving averaged 24.7 points, 4.8 rebounds and 4.6 assists over 50 games. Playing all 22 playoff games, he averaged 22.1 points and 5.1 assists while leading the Mavericks to the 2024 NBA Finals. With the extension, Dallas lowers his annual cap hit and drops below the luxury-tax second apron &ndash; freeing up the $5.7 million taxpayer mid-level exception for potential offseason moves.
Irving, 33, spoke briefly on the decision: he and team officials are united in building a legacy in Dallas, with eyes on a championship window. Returning from ACL surgery as early as January, he signals his readiness to help the Mavericks contend at the highest level.
ANALYSIS: This move marks the roster continuity for Dallas, as Irving solidifies their core alongside Davis and Flagg, signaling intent for long-term competitiveness. By opting out and thus lowering the cap burden, the Mavericks restored mid-level exception with its cap strategy and it gives their front office flexibility to make more moves in the future.&nbsp;
Although injured, Irving&rsquo;s contract shows faith in his return and his role as team leader. Dallas positions itself to build around Irving, Davis, and Flagg &ndash; balancing short-term title ambitions with sustainable growth. This deal not only secures their veteran playmaker but also opens room to add supporting pieces needed to compete next season.

Nine-time All-Star Kyrie Irving has opted out of his $43 million player option and agreed to a three-year, $119 million extension.

Kyrie Irving resigns three-year, $119 million contract extension with Mavericks

The Houston Rockets have re-signed veteran point guard Fred VanVleet to a two-year, $50 million contract that includes a player option for the 2026&ndash;27 season, according to ESPN&rsquo;s Shams Charania.
The new deal replaces his prior $44.9 million team option, giving VanVleet increased security while providing Houston with cap relief and flexibility&mdash;a strategic move amid a flurry of offseason transactions.
After declining his previous option, the Rockets negotiated a shorter-term extension that maintains VanVleet's veteran leadership without hampering the team's financial structure. By lowering his annual hit, the Rockets dropped comfortably below the first luxury-tax apron and unlocked the $14.1 million mid-level exception, enabling future roster moves without overcommitting financially.
ANALYSIS: VanVleet has been instrumental in Houston&rsquo;s rapid ascent over the past two seasons, helping the team evolve from a rebuilding project into a 52-win playoff contender. Last season, he averaged 14.1 points, 5.6 assists, and 1.6 steals in 60 games, then elevated his performance to 18.7 points per game during their seven-game first-round series against Golden State. His vocal presence and savvy playmaking remain vital to Houston&rsquo;s championship aspirations, now bolstered by the arrival of Kevin Durant and continuity under coach Ime Udoka.
By balancing financial prudence with roster stability, the Rockets demonstrate a clear blueprint for sustained growth. VanVleet remains a cornerstone of that vision &ndash; a stabilizing force leading a core aiming for deeper postseason success.

The Houston Rockets have re-signed veteran point guard Fred VanVleet to a two-year, $50 million contract.

Fred VanVleet resigns with Rockets on two-year, $50M deal

The Portland Trail Blazers have acquired veteran guard Jrue Holiday from the Boston Celtics in exchange for Anfernee Simons and two second-round draft picks, sources told ESPN&rsquo;s Shams Charania.
Holiday, a two-time NBA champion and six‑time All‑Defensive Team honoree, averaged 11.1 points, 4.3 rebounds and 3.9 assists last season with Boston, while shooting a career‑high 42.9% from deep. At 35, he returns to a Blazers team seeking veteran leadership and defensive stability on the guard and wing spots.
Portland had originally traded Holiday in the blockbuster Damian Lillard deal of 2023, sending him straight to Boston. Now he&rsquo;s back, part of a push to mentor the Blazers&rsquo; younger core, particularly young guards Scoot Henderson and Shaedon Sharpe, to try and elevate their competitiveness in the Western Conference.
Simons, 26, brings offensive firepower to Boston, where he&rsquo;ll slot into a 3‑point‑heavy rotation. He averaged 19.3 points and 4.8 assists over 32 minutes per game last season. Boston also received two future second‑round picks as part of the deal.
According to ESPN&rsquo;s Bobby Marks, the move shaves approximately $40 million in luxury‑tax burden from Boston&rsquo;s books and moves them roughly $18 M below the second apron, enhancing their financial flexibility.
ANALYSIS: Portland expects Holiday to fortify its defense and locker‑room culture &ndash; as the team eyes a return to playoff contention, his r&eacute;sum&eacute; and veteran presence could prove instrumental. His presence could prove to be vital for Henderson and Sharpe&rsquo;s development as they work their way to be stars in the league. Holiday can teach both young guys the defensive acumen and the championship pedigree needed to succeed in the NBA.
For Boston, acquiring Simons means a little bit of cap relief as they float around the second apron of the luxury tax. The 6-foot-5 Simons is also perfect for their system with his three-point shooting and rim pressure both essential elements of their offensive attack.
This move marks a strategic shift for both franchises: Portland prioritizes veteran leadership and defensive toughness, while Boston levers flexibility and younger talent to navigate an evolving roster landscape. Overall, this looks like to be a win-win trade for both teams as they both got what they wanted and addressed a specific need.

The Portland Trail Blazers have acquired veteran guard Jrue Holiday from the Boston Celtics in exchange for Anfernee Simons.

Celtics trade Jrue Holiday to the Blazers for Anfernee Simons

The Houston Rockets have landed 15-time All-Star Kevin Durant in a massive trade with the Phoenix Suns, according to ESPN&rsquo;s Shams Charania.
In exchange, Phoenix will receive guard Jalen Green, forward Dillon Brooks, the No. 10 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, and five future second-round pick from Houston.
Durant, 36, is entering his 18th season and remains a dominant force &ndash; he averaged 26.6 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 4.2 assists last year, shooting a career-best 43% from beyond the arc. Even only playing 62 games due to injury, he still led the Suns in scoring. His move to Houston comes just in time to bolster their offense, which struggled late in the year.
The deal was officially finalized on June 22, though it won&rsquo;t be formally completed until July 6 due to the "poison pill" in Jalen Green&rsquo;s contract, according to Yahoo Sports. Durant learned about the move during an on‑stage appearance at Fanatics Fest in New York &ndash; prompting a stunned reaction captured on live video.
ANALYSIS: The Rockets will gain a superstar scorer to complement their young core including Alperen Şeng&uuml;n, Amen Thompson, Fred VanVleet, and Jabari Smith Jr.. Offensively, the firepower can fix late-season lapses. The Rockets just ranked 22nd in half-court scoring in the playoffs. Finally, this move reunites Durant with coach Ime Udoka, his former USA and Nets coach &ndash; relationships that helped seal the deal.&nbsp;
For the Suns, they will acquire a future star in Jalen Green, three-and-D veteran Dillon Brooks, a top-10 draft pick, and multiple second-round selections for rebuilding flexibility. They will have also shed Durant&rsquo;s remaining $54.7 million salary obligation, freeing cap room to make some more moves and reinforce the squad around franchise player Devin Booker. Or, this move could end up being a pivotal step in pivoting from underperformance toward a long-term rebuild strategy in the future.
This is a high-risk, high-reward move for the Rockets: they gain a generational talent without sacrificing their core but trade proven contributors in Green and Brooks, and take on luxury tax concerns. Meanwhile, the Suns get foundational pieces and financial flexibility.
Durant&rsquo;s arrival instantly raises Houston&rsquo;s ceiling &ndash; expect them to contend if they gel quickly. Phoenix, meanwhile, can ramp up their rebuild with new assets in hand. This trade not only shifts power in the Western Conference but reshapes the trajectories of both franchises.

The Houston Rockets have landed 15-time All-Star Kevin Durant in a massive trade with the Phoenix Suns, according to Shams Charania.

Kevin Durant traded to the Rockets: Blockbuster deal sends superstar to Houston

In a series full of big moments and bigger performances, Jalen Williams finally had his. The 24-year-old wing exploded for a career-high 40 points in Game 5 of the NBA Finals, lifting the Oklahoma City Thunder to the brink of their first championship since the franchise moved from Seattle.
For one night, the man they call JDub stepped out of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander&rsquo;s shadow. He wasn&rsquo;t just the Robin to SGA&rsquo;s Batman &ndash; he became the Batman and carried OKC to victory. He initiated the offense, hit timely threes, attacked the rim with force, and defended like his life depended on it. It was a masterclass from a player once doubted as the long-term second option for this team. But as the confetti fell after OKC's Game 5 win, there was no doubt anymore: Jalen Williams has arrived.
<h3>The emergence of a true No. 2</h3>
Oklahoma City&rsquo;s ascension to the NBA&rsquo;s elite has largely been credited to Gilgeous-Alexander&rsquo;s leap into MVP territory and top 5 player in the league conversation. But no team contends for titles with just one star. Throughout the season, Williams quietly established himself as that second cornerstone &ndash; an All-Star, a three-level scorer, and a swiss-army knife on both ends of the floor.
He averaged over 20 points per game in the regular season with 5 rebounds and 5 assists per game, and earned All-NBA Third Team honors. But those accolades were hard-earned, especially after the questions that clouded him following last season's playoff exit.
Against Dallas in the 2024 Western Conference Semifinals, Williams struggled to find rhythm. The Mavericks&rsquo; defense smothered him, taking away his drives and disrupting his midrange flow. He shot poorly, turned the ball over more than usual, and appeared unsure of when to assert himself. The Thunder were bounced in six games, and the spotlight turned on whether JDub could ever truly complement SGA as a playoff performer.
<h3>Williams&rsquo; redemption and resolve</h3>
Fast forward one year, and Williams is a different player. With Isaiah Hartenstein added to give OKC more interior toughness and Josh Giddey traded away for Alex Caruso, the Thunder leaned even harder into their identity: wings with size, skill, and smarts.
Williams fit that mold perfectly, using the offseason to refine his handle, sharpen his jumper, and study film to improve his decision-making. The result? An All-Star nod, a 68-win season, and OKC securing the top seed in the entire league.
But the playoffs would again test him.
Denver pushed the Thunder to the brink in the second round. Once again, Williams faced turbulence &ndash; his shot abandoned him at times, and the Nuggets&rsquo; physicality forced rushed decisions. But this time, he didn&rsquo;t unravel. He dug deeper. He impacted games with his defense and passing, then rediscovered his scoring touch just in time to help the Thunder close the series in Game 7.
In the Western Conference Finals against Minnesota, he was magnificent. He shot the ball efficiently, helped neutralize Anthony Edwards at times, and showcased his elite cutting and off-ball IQ &ndash; areas often overshadowed by his flashy isolation moves. By the end of the series, Williams had reclaimed full confidence in his offensive role.
But even that couldn&rsquo;t prepare the world for what he unleashed in Game 5 of the Finals.
<h3>A Finals performance to remember</h3>
With Indiana doubling SGA on every touch and trying to bait OKC&rsquo;s supporting cast into beating them in Game 5, Williams took full advantage of the defensive attention. He sliced through the defense with decisive drives, nailed tough step-back jumpers, and even initiated offense when Gilgeous-Alexander rested. His 40-point night wasn&rsquo;t just about scoring &ndash; it was about control. He looked every bit like a franchise pillar that would be in the city for years to come.
Williams&rsquo; ability to score at all three levels, his commitment to defense, and his feel for the game now make him one of the most complete young wings in basketball. He's not just a complementary piece anymore &ndash; he's a cornerstone.
<h3>Cementing his legacy</h3>
With the Thunder now one win away from an NBA championship, Williams is on the verge of etching his name into Oklahoma City lore. Not just as the guy who played beside SGA, but as the co-author of this team&rsquo;s historic run.
It&rsquo;s easy to forget this is his first NBA Finals. He plays with the poise of a seasoned vet, never rushing, always reading. His blend of patience and aggression makes him nearly impossible to scheme out of a game, and his confidence has caught up with his tools.
Of course, there&rsquo;s still work to be done. Game 6 awaits back in Indiana, and the Pacers aren&rsquo;t going quietly. But for Williams, this postseason has already validated everything the Thunder hoped he could become.
The doubts that loomed after last year&rsquo;s postseason struggles are gone. The idea that he couldn&rsquo;t rise to the occasion? Erased. This run &ndash; this journey &ndash; is proof of how perseverance and belief can reshape a career.
Whether he&rsquo;s cutting behind a ball-watching defender, dishing a no-look dime on the break, or drilling a stepback jumper in the clutch, Jalen Williams is playing with the kind of purpose that changes narratives and wins titles.
The Thunder may soon hoist the Larry O'Brien Trophy. And when they do, know that it wasn&rsquo;t just SGA&rsquo;s brilliance that got them there. It was Jalen Williams, too &ndash; the sidekick-turned-superstar, who stepped up when it mattered most.

Jalen Williams delivered a 40-point masterpiece in the NBA Finals, cementing his status as the OKC Thunder’s true second star.

Jalen Williams rises from sidekick to star in Thunder’s NBA title push

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>
</ul>
This was completely broken down from a video by Steph Noh:
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
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.
&ndash; &ndash; &ndash;
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

The Houston Rockets have secured veteran center Steven Adams with a fully guaranteed three-year, $39 million contract extension, according to ESPN&rsquo;s Shams Charania.
The move prevents Adams from hitting unrestricted free agency as he, 31, became a pivotal presence for Houston after being acquired mid-season from Memphis. His retention signals a strong commitment to continuity in the Rockets' frontcourt as they look to continue building from a rather successful season this year, grabbing the second seed in the West.
During the 2024&ndash;25 season, Adams appeared in 58 games off the bench, averaging 3.9 points and 5.6 rebounds in 13.7 minutes per game following a return from PCL surgery. His impact extended beyond traditional stats &ndash; Houston outscored opponents by 5.0 points per 100 possessions when he was on the floor and by 14.1 in the seven‑game playoff series against Golden State.
The deal pays Adams an average of $13 million per season, a modest increase over his previous salary of $12.6 million. Despite Houston navigating near the second luxury‑tax apron, the front office prioritized retaining a veteran anchor for their young core.
ANALYSIS: Adams&rsquo; role alongside emerging star Alperen Şeng&uuml;n in double‑center lineups added depth and toughness to the Rockets, earning praise from opposing coaches. His blend of offensive rebounding, interior defense, and veteran leadership will remain a key component under coach Ime Udoka as Houston builds on its 52‑win season.
With Adams locked in long-term, the Rockets now turn their attention to securing point guard Fred VanVleet &ndash; whose potential contract and $44.9 million option loom large in their salary cap strategy. Maintaining Adams ensures lineup stability and frontcourt continuity heading into the 2025&ndash;26 campaign.

The Houston Rockets have secured veteran center Steven Adams with a fully guaranteed three-year, $39 million contract extension.

Houston Rockets resign center Steven Adams on three-year deal

Indiana overcomes 15-point deficit behind late-game brilliance to steal series opener
In their playoffs full of improbable comebacks, the Indiana Pacers added their most dramatic one yet &ndash; stealing Game 1 of the 2025 NBA Finals on the road against the Oklahoma City Thunder, 111-110.
For the 43 minutes and 59.7 seconds of game time, the Pacers never once led. But as they&rsquo;ve done all playoffs long, they clawed their way back from a daunting double-digit deficit and delivered a perfectly-timed knockout punch when it mattered most.
How did the Pacers do it? The shift began in the third quarter, when Indiana initiated a pair of offensive sets to get Benedict Mathurin involved. First, they ran simultaneous actions: a high pick-and-roll between Tyrese Haliburton and Pascal Siakam at the top of the key, while Thomas Bryant set a pindown for Mathurin on the wing. Mathurin caught the pass, drove middle, and dropped it off to Bryant for a thunderous one-handed jam.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
Mathurin drop pass to Bryant <a href="https://t.co/mZAm4rIbJn">pic.twitter.com/mZAm4rIbJn</a>
&mdash; Mon Anthony Valmoria (@MorvalNBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/MorvalNBA/status/1931021125523501159?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 6, 2025</a>
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On the ensuing sideline out-of-bounds play, the Pacers simplified things &ndash; Mathurin ran a high pick-and-roll with Bryant at the top. He got downhill quickly and drew a foul on Isaiah Hartenstein. Though OKC challenged the call, the review was unsuccessful &ndash; costing the Thunder their last challenge and later proving costly. Mathurin knocked down both free throws, trimming the lead to single digits at 70-79 for the first time since the first quarter.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
Mathurin straight line drive, fouled <a href="https://t.co/zV7a8jB8da">pic.twitter.com/zV7a8jB8da</a>
&mdash; Mon Anthony Valmoria (@MorvalNBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/MorvalNBA/status/1931021129893978546?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 6, 2025</a>
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After an OKC three, Indiana immediately countered by Indiana as TJ McConnell pushed the ball on the other side right after the make. Using his quickness, McConnell blew past SGA on an empty corner downhill drive and got a paint touch off of it. Hartenstein left his man Bryant on the left corner to challenge the drive, then McConnell delivered a no-look pass to Bryant who then knocked down a three to answer, bringing the lead back to single digits again.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
Bryant corner three <a href="https://t.co/nDmbPRjklx">pic.twitter.com/nDmbPRjklx</a>
&mdash; Mon Anthony Valmoria (@MorvalNBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/MorvalNBA/status/1931021133664645510?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 6, 2025</a>
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Those two Mathurin plays were important as OKC shifted their focus to him. With OKC now devoting more defensive attention, the Pacers continued manipulating matchups. On the final Indiana possession of the quarter, McConnell motioned for Mathurin to set a screen. The Thunder attempted a pre-switch between Caruso and SGA, trying to neutralize the threat. But the slight miscommunication allowed McConnell to zip a pass to Siakam, who was left alone in the right corner. Siakam calmly buried the three, bringing Indiana within six at 76-82. SGA answered with a buzzer-beater triple, but the Pacers had already shifted the tide.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
Siakam corner three <a href="https://t.co/HuZStoN4Ps">pic.twitter.com/HuZStoN4Ps</a>
&mdash; Mon Anthony Valmoria (@MorvalNBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/MorvalNBA/status/1931021139733783030?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 6, 2025</a>
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Still, that was all Indiana needed &ndash; to cut the lead down to single digits before the start of the 4th quarter to make it a manageable deficit, as they try to conjure their signature end game runs that they have been doing all playoffs long.
OKC even pushed the lead to as high as 15 points, 94-79, after a turnover by the Pacers that led to a Jalen Williams breakaway jam &ndash; but Indiana never panicked.
The Pacers just would not quit and as they have been doing in these playoffs, fought and crawled back into the game.
A series of scores for the Pacers ensued: Mathurin attacked Caruso for a strong layup. Then, Andrew Nembhard blew by Caruso for a tough and-one. Myles Turner hit a corner three. Obi Toppin knocked down his fifth three of the game. In just a matter of minutes, the lead had evaporated to 91-98.
Indiana got even closer with yet another beautiful sideline out of bounds play: Nembhard got the ball to the middle off the screen from Myles Turner, then he turned around to set yet another screen for Haliburton (who inbounded the ball), but instead it turned to a flare screen and Turner popped out. He got Chet Holmgren off his feet and proceeded to drill a tough stepback three off the glass from the left corner to cut the lead to 4, 94-98, marking a 12-2 over the last three minutes for the Pacers.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
Turner stepback three <a href="https://t.co/eMowGKcsju">pic.twitter.com/eMowGKcsju</a>
&mdash; Mon Anthony Valmoria (@MorvalNBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/MorvalNBA/status/1931021144095936685?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 6, 2025</a>
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Next time down, Indiana went to Turner again as Nembhard found him again off the pick and pop action for a right elbow jumper. 96-100 OKC
Off another OKC miss, Haliburton grabbed the rebound, ran the length of the floor, surveyed it for potential passing options, before doing a hesitation dribble that confused SGA. It allowed Haliburton to blow past him and earn a layup on the break &ndash; something the Pacers had not had much of this game.
Oklahoma City responded with a tough SGA finish and four free throws to stretch the margin back to nine, 105-96. But Indiana came right back, with Aaron Nesmith burying a left-corner three off a broken play to make it 102-108.
Next play down, Indiana survived once again after Jalen Williams missed a wide-open three-point attempt. Nembhard brought the ball the other way and did a series of dribble moves on SGA before drilling the impressive stepback three from the left wing. The Pacers have now come all the way from 15 down to cut the lead to just 3, 105-108 with 2 minutes left in the game.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
Nembhard stepback three <a href="https://t.co/8WGH4gHHR5">pic.twitter.com/8WGH4gHHR5</a>
&mdash; Mon Anthony Valmoria (@MorvalNBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/MorvalNBA/status/1931021149242364050?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 6, 2025</a>
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The Thunder briefly steadied themselves with a Lu Dort block and an SGA layup to go up 110-105, but that would be their last field goal of the night.
Nembhard calmly sank two free throws, and Siakam followed a crucial block on SGA with a hustle play on the other end &ndash; putting back a missed three to make it 109-110 with under a minute to play.
After forcing two stops &ndash; one on Williams, another on SGA &ndash; the Pacers got the ball back off a rebound with the game on the line. Rick Carlisle trusted his team to find the right shot. It was when Haliburton delivered: an off-balance 18-foot jumper from the right wing that rattled in to give the Pacers their first &ndash; and only &ndash; lead of the game with 0.3 seconds remaining.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
Haliburton for the win <a href="https://t.co/mWrlgNpFJf">pic.twitter.com/mWrlgNpFJf</a>
&mdash; Mon Anthony Valmoria (@MorvalNBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/MorvalNBA/status/1931021156833984600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 6, 2025</a>
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</blockquote>
OKC was not able to get a shot off for the final possession of the game and thus completed another wild Pacers comeback.
&ndash; &ndash; &ndash;&nbsp;
In the end, OKC missed their shots on offense as they had a hard time protecting the lead, while Indiana got to their offense more with flow and rhythm in the 4th.
The Thunder shot 5-of-17 in the final frame and they were not able to make shots as Indiana chipped away possession by possession. Meanwhile, the Pacers executed with precision and confidence. Whether through elaborate sideline plays or simple two-man actions, they kept creating looks &ndash; and more importantly, they kept converting them.
Game 1 was a microcosm of Indiana&rsquo;s identity in these playoffs: resilient, relentless, and fearless in the face of deficits. With the win, they&rsquo;ve now stolen home court and placed all the pressure on Oklahoma City to respond in Game 2.

Take a deep dive on how the Pacers came back once again this time against the Thunder in Game 1 of the 2025 NBA Finals.

Comeback kings strike again: How Indiana stole Game 1 vs OKC

Every NBA season comes with its fair share of surprises, and the 2024-25 campaign has been no different. While championship contenders and superstars have dominated headlines, several teams have quietly &mdash; or loudly &mdash; rewritten their narratives in spectacular fashion. These aren&rsquo;t just flukes or hot streaks. These are teams that have made a leap, exceeded expectations, and found themselves in playoff positioning when few thought they&rsquo;d be here, or surpassing their previous season&rsquo;s accomplishments.
Whether it&rsquo;s through masterful coaching, player development, savvy roster moves, or simply finding the right chemistry at the right time, these are the teams that have all proven that projections and preseason power rankings don&rsquo;t always tell the full story. Here's a closer look at how these franchises flipped the script and are now among the best feel-good stories of the season.
Detroit Pistons Previous season&rsquo;s record: 17-65 This season&rsquo;s record: 44-38, 6th in the East
Perhaps no team has made a bigger leap &mdash; or captured the league&rsquo;s heart &mdash; more than the Detroit Pistons. Just a year removed from a miserable 17-win season, the Pistons have pulled off one of the most dramatic turnarounds in recent NBA memory. They are now sixth in the Eastern Conference, and have set a playoff date against the third-seeded New York Knicks.
Much of that credit goes to newly hired head coach J.B. Bickerstaff, who brought immediate structure, accountability, and belief into a young locker room. But the star of the show has been Cade Cunningham. After an injury-riddled season last year, Cunningham has blossomed into a true franchise player this year &mdash; a dual-threat scorer and facilitator who commands the game at his own pace. His decision-making has improved drastically, and he's showing why he was the No. 1 overall pick. Cunningham is here, and he&rsquo;s gunning for that star/superstar status.
Surrounding Cunningham, players like Jaden Ivey (even though he was injured) and Ausar Thompson have also taken noticeable steps forward, while big man Jalen Duren has anchored the middle with toughness and poise beyond his years. Detroit has also had key free agent signings that brought veteran presence in the locker room in Malik Beasley, Tim Hardaway Jr., and Tobias Harris. They have also picked up vet PG Dennis Schroder in a trade to help Cunningham with the ball-handling duties. Everything that Detroit has done was in order to come back and see this moment &ndash; to be back in the playoffs. It&rsquo;s not just that Detroit is winning &mdash; it&rsquo;s how they&rsquo;re doing it: through defense, selflessness, and maturity. They&rsquo;ve gone from laughingstock to legitimate in over a season, and it has been incredibly fun to watch.
Houston Rockets Previous season&rsquo;s record: 22-60 This season&rsquo;s record: 52-30, 2nd in the West
After four long and grueling seasons of rebuilding, the Houston Rockets are back &mdash; and better than ever. They&rsquo;ve clinched 50 wins for the first time since the James Harden era and have soared into the second seed in the loaded Western Conference. This transformation didn&rsquo;t happen overnight, but every move the Rockets made over the last four years has culminated in a roster that&rsquo;s deep, versatile, and hungry.
It started with the front office, who made smart picks in the draft: Alperen Sengun and Jalen Green in 2021, Jabari Smith Jr. and Tari Eason in 2022, Amen Thompson and Cam Whitmore in 2023, and Reed Sheppard in 2024. The result? A blend of high-upside talent that&rsquo;s matured quickly under the right guidance. And that guidance came in the form of Ime Udoka &mdash; the tough, defense-first head coach who has instilled discipline and identity from day one.
The Rockets also balanced their youth with veteran leadership. Fred VanVleet and Dillon Brooks were crucial free-agent signings, and the trade for Steven Adams added much-needed size and experience in the paint. Sengun has quietly become one of the most skilled bigs in the league, averaging near triple-double numbers with his passing and post play. Meanwhile, Jalen Green&rsquo;s shot selection and efficiency have improved, making him a more consistent offensive threat.
Everything is clicking in Houston, and the best part? They&rsquo;re still only scratching the surface. It&rsquo;s officially liftoff time in Houston, Texas.
Cleveland Cavaliers Previous season&rsquo;s record: 51-31 This season&rsquo;s record: 64-18, 1st in the East
It might sound strange to include a 50-win team in a list of surprises, but the Cleveland Cavaliers have surpassed what many expected from them &mdash; and in a completely new way. After losing to the Celtics in the second round last season, many believed Cleveland had plateaued, stuck in a tier below the East&rsquo;s elite. But the arrival of head coach Kenny Atkinson changed everything.
Atkinson brought more than just X&rsquo;s and O&rsquo;s to Cleveland &mdash; he brought vision. His innovative offensive schemes breathed new life into the team, particularly Evan Mobley. The former third overall pick has emerged as a true two-way force this year, expanding his offensive bag while remaining a defensive anchor. Mobley has become more comfortable operating as a playmaker, setting high screens, making short-roll reads, and even spacing the floor.
Donovan Mitchell remains the alpha, capable of carrying the offense during clutch moments. But with Darius Garland and Jarrett Allen playing supporting roles to perfection &mdash; and the perfect role players giving them a punch off the bench &mdash; the Cavaliers are deeper and more dangerous than ever. This is their best season since LeBron left, and it feels like they&rsquo;ve finally found a sustainable identity. They're not just winning games; they&rsquo;re playing like a team that believes it can win the East.
Los Angeles Clippers Previous season&rsquo;s record: 44-38 This season&rsquo;s record: 50-32, 5th in the West
No team entered the season with lower public expectations relative to their talent than the Los Angeles Clippers especially after Paul George left in free agency. The assumption was that LA&rsquo;s championship window had finally slammed shut. But instead of folding, the Clippers responded with a defiant, gritty, and unified season that caught the league off guard.
Kawhi Leonard returned healthy and dominant, looking like the MVP-caliber player of old. His midrange game has been clinical, and he&rsquo;s elevated his play on both ends as the postseason approaches. But perhaps the most shocking resurgence came from James Harden, who has turned back the clock and delivered one of his most efficient seasons in years. Harden has assumed full command of the offense, orchestrating everything with poise and flair while re-establishing himself as a top-tier guard in the league that could possibly fetch an All-NBA plum.
The supporting cast has been outstanding. Ivica Zubac has taken a huge leap, anchoring the Clippers&rsquo; defense and finishing strong around the rim. He&rsquo;s firmly in the Most Improved Player conversation. Norman Powell has been a revelation in an expanded role, consistently providing scoring and hustle. The &ldquo;addition by subtraction&rdquo; idea has rung true &mdash; with more touches and opportunities, Powell has been better than ever.
And of course, credit must go to Tyronn Lue, who has maximized every piece of this roster and turned what many assumed would be a rebuilding year into a redemption tour. The Clippers became this gritty and rugged defensive team that no one wants to meet in the playoffs. They might be underdogs, but they&rsquo;ve built something real.&nbsp;
&ndash; &ndash; &ndash;
These four teams &mdash; Detroit, Houston, Cleveland, and Los Angeles &mdash; entered the season with vastly different narratives. But they all share a common thread: they weren&rsquo;t supposed to be this good. Whether through internal growth, roster management, or coaching brilliance, each franchise has exceeded expectations in its own way.
The playoffs will be the true test, but what these teams have already accomplished is worth celebrating. In a league where dynasties often dominate headlines, it's stories like these that keep the NBA fresh, unpredictable, and thrilling year after year.

Discover how the Pistons, Rockets, Cavaliers, and Clippers have surpassed this season's expectations and rewrote their narratives.

Teams that have exceeded expectations this season

The San Antonio Spurs have announced that Victor Wembanyama will miss the rest of the 2024-2025 NBA season after being diagnosed with a blood clot in his right shoulder, according to ESPN&rsquo;s Shams Charania.
The condition, identified as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), was discovered after Wembanyama reported discomfort in his arm. Despite the severity of the diagnosis, the Spurs' medical team is optimistic about his full recovery and has stated there is no concern for his long-term health. ​
ANALYSIS: Wembanyama, the first overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, has been a standout performer for the Spurs this season. He has averaged 24.3 points, 11 rebounds, 3.8 blocks, and 3.7 assists per game, making a significant impact on both ends of the court. His absence poses a considerable challenge for the Spurs as they navigate the remainder of the season without their leading scorer and defensive anchor.&nbsp;
The team has faced additional adversity this season, including head coach Gregg Popovich suffering a stroke in November. With Wembanyama sidelined, the Spurs' playoff aspirations are uncertain. The organization and fans alike are hopeful for Wembanyama's complete recovery and eagerly anticipate his return to the court next season.
The Spurs recently acquired former Kings PG De&rsquo;Aaron Fox to make a bid for the playoffs, but with Wemby sidelined, that goal might be out of reach for this season.

The Spurs have announced that Victor Wembanyama will miss the rest of the season after being diagnosed with a blood clot.

Spurs shut down Victor Wembanyama for remainder of season due to blood clot

Milwaukee Bucks forward Bobby Portis Jr. has been suspended without pay for 25 games following a violation of the NBA's anti-drug policy, according to NBA reporter Chris Haynes.&nbsp;
The suspension, announced on February 20, 2025, comes after Portis tested positive for Tramadol, a painkiller recently added to the league's list of banned substances. The suspension commenced with the Bucks' game against the Los Angeles Clippers and will sideline Portis until at least April 8, 2025.&nbsp;
Portis and his agent, Mark Bartelstein, have stated that the ingestion of Tramadol was unintentional. According to Bartelstein in a released statement, Portis mistakenly took Tramadol, believing it to be Toradol, an approved pain medication. Bartelstein emphasized Portis's integrity and professionalism, describing the incident as an "honest mistake."
The suspension carries significant financial implications for Portis and the Bucks. Portis will forfeit approximately $2.85 million in salary, equating to $114,348 per game. Additionally, the Bucks are unable to sign a replacement player until the sixth game of the suspension.&nbsp;
ANALYSIS: Despite the setback, the Bucks secured a 104-101 victory over the Washington Wizards on February 22, 2025. The team was also without Damian Lillard, who was rested for the game. Brook Lopez and Kyle Kuzma stepped up, contributing 18 and 19 points respectively, to lead the team to a hard-fought win.&nbsp;
Portis, a key contributor to the Bucks' 2021 championship team, is averaging 13.7 points and 8.3 rebounds per game this season. His absence poses a challenge for the Bucks as they navigate the remainder of the regular season and prepare for the playoffs.&nbsp;
All eyes will now be on Kyle Kuzma, who was acquired at the trade deadline. Kuzma is a 6-foot-9 forward who can play with Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo, and with Portis&rsquo; absence, Kuzma&rsquo;s role will increase from here on out as the Bucks prepare for the playoffs.

Bucks forward Bobby Portis Jr. has been suspended for 25 games following a violation of the NBA's anti-drug policy.

Moses

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