MORE FROM Kyle Irving

George is in line for a statement season

Clippers star Kawhi Leonard is set to miss a significant amount of time in the 2021-22 season as he recovers from a partially torn ACL suffered in last year's playoffs. His absence will put pressure on All-Star forward Paul George to perform at the highest level to keep the Clippers afloat until his co-star is back in action.

Kyle Irving

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Report: Gupta to make Indian history with T'Wolves promotion

The Timberwolves announced they have parted ways with president of basketball operations Gersson Rosas. They will reportedly promote vice president Sachin Gupta to interim president of basketball operations.

Kyle Irving

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Get to know Spurs' young core

The Spurs, well past the era of Tim Duncan, Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili, are set to enter a rebuilding stage after missing the playoffs in consecutive years for the first time in franchise history. With promising young talent on the roster, get to know the players behind the youth movement in San Antonio.

Kyle Irving

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Separating contenders from pretenders in West

NBA.com's Kyle Irving, Gilbert McGregor and Scott Rafferty discuss how the Western Conference is shaping up following another busy offseason. Should the Lakers and Suns be in the same tier? What should be made of the Clippers, Nuggets and Warriors? Which teams are destined to compete for a spot in the Play-In Tournament?

Kyle Irving

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Will the Suns get back to the NBA Finals?

After falling in the NBA Finals, the Suns have lofty expectations to live up to heading into the 2021-22 NBA season. Can Chris Paul and Devin Booker elevate their team and get back to the Finals for the second-consecutive season? Or will the near-championship hangover get the best of Phoenix?

Kyle Irving

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Report: Lakers trade Gasol to Grizzlies, will be waived

According to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, the Lakers have traded Marc Gasol and a second-round pick to the Grizzlies for the draft rights to Wang Zhelin.

Kyle Irving

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Which NBA players would dominate any era?

In response to resurfaced quotes from Rasheed Wallace, NBA.com's Gilbert McGregor and Kyle Irving get in the age-old discussion of the NBA's best talent and their ability to dominate in various eras, beginning with LeBron James and Kevin Durant before expanding even further.

Kyle Irving

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One fantasy sleeper for each team

The superstars shape your fantasy basketball roster, but picking the right sleepers can help elevate your team's floor and provide depth for when injuries inevitably happen. Take a look at one sleeper pick for each NBA team.

Kyle Irving

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10 players poised for breakout fantasy season

Players who perform above their draft pick value can elevate your team to a fantasy championship contender. Take a look at 10 players poised for breakout seasons who should be available in the middle rounds of your fantasy draft.

Kyle Irving

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Active players who could join the NBA 75

To celebrate the NBA's 75th Anniversary, the league will announce its "NBA 75" later this year, a list of the 75 greatest to have ever played the game. The last time the NBA did this was for its 50th anniversary, releasing a top-50 list back in 1997. The league has seen its fair share of legends emerge since that time, creating some difficult decisions for the new list-makers. Where do LeBron James, Steph Curry and Kevin Durant fit in? Do Chris Paul or Giannis Antetokounmpo have a case? Which older players get knocked out? We examine the tough questions ahead of the "NBA 75" release.

Kyle Irving

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Cloth Talk: Mamba Day edition

In the latest edition of NBA Cloth Talk we celebrate the life and legacy of Kobe Bryant, looking back at the iconic Kobe sneaker models, colourways and the stories we associate with them.

Kyle Irving

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Debating NBA 2K22 player ratings

With the forthcoming release of NBA 2K22, the game's overall player ratings for this season have been rolled out, causing debate across the internet. Our NBA.com staff needed to get in on the heated action.

Kyle Irving

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Did Giddey crack top five for NBA 2K22 rookie ratings?

With the release of NBA 2K22 right around the corner, ratings are starting to be revealed for a number of players in the league. Among the most recent, NBA 2K dropped the ratings of the top-five rookies in this year's draft class. Who made the cut?

Kyle Irving

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10 rookies who had a breakout Summer League

NBA Summer League is highlighted by the opportunity to see the top picks in their first NBA action, but there are always a few under-the-radar rookies who have breakout performances, showing promise for the upcoming season. Here are 10 rookies who made the most of their opportunity in Las Vegas.

Kyle Irving

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The path to 2022 Rookie of the Year

The 2021 NBA Draft class is loaded with players ready to make an impact in Year 1, but which first-year player will take home the Rookie of the Year hardware at the end of the season? Each of the top six picks have a different pathway to which they can claim the award.

Kyle Irving

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What to watch for in Opening Week national TV games

The NBA has announced its Opening Week national television schedule for the 2021-22 season and there is no shortage of star power. The eight games feature 12 different teams, including the last eight players to win MVP and three matchups from last year's playoffs.

Kyle Irving

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Ideal fits for best remaining free agents

Two weeks have passed since the start of 2021 NBA Free Agency, and while the majority of needle-moving players have already signed deals, there are still a handful of players remaining that could make an impact for a team. Who are the best remaining free agents and what would be their ideal landing spot?

Kyle Irving

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Ranking fantasy impact of 2021 NBA Draft class

The 2021 NBA Draft class is loaded with talented players who should be able to make an immediate impact in fantasy basketball during their rookie season. Which rookies are worth a draft pick and which are worth monitoring on the waiver wire throughout the season?

Kyle Irving

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How did free agency affect fantasy basketball?

It's not quite fantasy basketball season just yet, but it's never too early to get a head start on your opponents. Take a look at how some of the biggest deals of the offseason have altered the fantasy value of players on the move.

Kyle Irving

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Report: Kawhi to sign four-year deal with Clippers

According to Yahoo Sports' Chris Haynes, Kawhi Leonard has committed to returning to the Clippers. The Athletic has later reported the extension will be a four-year contract.

Kyle Irving

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Cloth Talk: 75th anniversary Classic uniforms

The latest edition of NBA.com's Cloth Talk sees Gilbert McGregor and Kyle Irving give their takes on the throwback uniforms to be worn by the Celtics, Knicks and Warriors in the 2021-22 season.

Kyle Irving

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Cunningham vs. Green rivalry begins

It's just a Summer League matchup, but this is what the exhibition showcase is all about. The rivalry between two players that have been tied together in comparison since long before the NBA Draft will go head-to-head when Cade Cunningham's Pistons take on Jalen Green's Rockets in Las Vegas.

Kyle Irving

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Aussies and NBL players in Summer League

There are four Australians and several players with NBL ties that are set to suit up for NBA teams when Summer League tips off in Las Vegas.

Kyle Irving

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FIBA announces Olympics "All-Star Five" team

Men's Basketball at the Tokyo Olympics has come to a close with the United States taking home the gold, France finishing with silver and Australia earning its first-ever medal with bronze. At the conclusion of the tournament, FIBA Basketball announced the "All-Star Five" team, representing the five best players at the Olympics.

Kyle Irving

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Paul George's unique path to signature sneaker line

Paul George was a five-star recruit with every offer in the world, destined to be a top pick in the NBA Draft and one day have his own sneaker. The no-star recruit worked relentlessly to reach superstardom, rewarded with his own signature shoe in the process.

Kyle Irving

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Preview: Men's gold and bronze medal games

The United States needed a second-half comeback to defeat Australia, while France needed a game-saving block to advance past Slovenia, setting the stage for the gold medal game. In the bronze medal game, both Australia and Slovenia will look for their first Men's Basketball medal in Olympics history.

Kyle Irving

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Report: CP3 returning to Suns

According to Yahoo Sports' Chris Haynes, All-Star point guard Chris Paul is returning to the Suns on a four-year deal worth $120 million.

Kyle Irving

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Report: Butler, Heat to agree to max contract extension

According to The Athletic's Shams Charania, the Miami Heat are expected to reach a four-year maximum contract extension with five-time All-Star Jimmy Butler.

Kyle Irving

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Preview: Men's Basketball Olympics Quarter-Finals

The drawing for the Men's Basketball Quarter-Finals Knockout Stage at the Tokyo Olympics is behind us and the matchups are set. Take a look at a preview for all four meetings between the eight remaining countries fighting for the Gold medal.

Kyle Irving

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On this date: Celtics trade for KG, start Big 3 era

On July 31, 2007, the Boston Celtics traded for Kevin Garnett to solidify their Big 3 and reboot the "super team" era of the NBA.

Kyle Irving

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Team USA avoids elimination with win over Czechs

Team USA needed a victory to guarantee a spot in the Knockout Stage and they treated this game like the must-win one it was. Kevin Durant destroyed Czech Republic with 23 points while leading the team in rebounds and assists, breaking a USA Olympic record along the way. Jayson Tatum erupted in the second half to close things out and secure the win.

Kyle Irving

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Running diary: USA dominates Czechs to advance

It was a must-win game for the United States to guarantee a spot in the Knockout Stage and they treated it that way. Behind a dominating performance from Kevin Durant and a hot second half from Jayson Tatum, Team USA keeps their medal hopes alive at the Tokyo Olympics.

Kyle Irving

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Report: Kings acquired Tristan Thompson in three-team deal

According to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, the Kings are acquiring Tristan Thompson in a three-team deal between the Celtics and Hawks.

Kyle Irving

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Draft Grades: Team-by-team analysis

The 2021 NBA Draft was full of trades and surprises, creating a chaotic night from start to finish. It can be tough to keep track of which players landed where during all the mayhem, but that's what we're here for. Take a look at a team-by-team breakdown, complete with instant analysis of each pick and draft grades. Which NBA franchise had the best draft night?

Kyle Irving

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One Play: Comparing Giddey's playmaking to LaMelo

Comparisons between Josh Giddey and LaMelo Ball are inevitable as two big, playmaking guards that went through the NBL's Next Stars program to achieve their dreams of being drafted into the NBA. Take a look at one play that depicts the similarity in the biggest strength of these two young guards.

Kyle Irving

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Ingles speaks on mentoring Giddey

Aussie guard Josh Giddey is projected to be a lottery pick in the 2021 NBA Draft. Ahead of his pre-draft process, he reached out to another Aussie star in Joe Ingles, who has high hopes for the country's next big star. Ingles spoke to NBA.com about the teenager's readiness for the next level.

Kyle Irving

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Six pressing questions ahead of 2021 NBA Draft

This year's draft is chock full of intriguing storylines. How good will Cade Cunningham be, and is he a lock for No. 1 over a stud like Evan Mobley? What's the upside for the two G League Ignite phenoms? Which prospects are the biggest sleepers and which big names might slip the farthest? Two members of the NBA.com Global Staff tackle burning questions and offer everything you need to be dialled in on Draft Night.

Kyle Irving

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International prospect profiles: Sengun, Garuba

Every year a few international prospects make their way into the draft pool as relative unknowns, and go on to have an impact in The League. Get to know Turkish big man Alperen Sengun and Spanish forward Usman Garuba, two potential lottery picks with huge upside in this year's class.

Kyle Irving

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Mock Draft 3.0: Updated with latest trade

The 2021 NBA Draft is almost here, as the big day draws near for the all of the prospects in this year's class. With one trade already in the books, the first round projections have been shaken up a bit. Which players was affected by the deal? Who has improved their draft stock and who has fallen in the first round? Take a look at a full first-round Mock Draft, complete with profiles, measurements and player comparisons for each draft hopeful.

Kyle Irving

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Booker's playoff debut will leave hunger for Finals return

47 points to close out LeBron James and the defending champion Lakers to win his first playoff series. 34 points to cap off a sweep of the Nuggets and league MVP Nikola Jokic. His first-career triple-double to earn a win in his Conference Finals debut. Back-to-back 40-point games in the NBA Finals. The most total points in a playoff debut in NBA history. Devin Booker's breakout postseason may have come up short of the ultimate goal, but the 24-year-old is destined for even more greatness moving forward.

Kyle Irving

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The most intriguing teams in the draft

Who are the most intriguing teams in this year's NBA draft? Franchises like the Raptors and Warriors are looking to get back to title contention, while teams like the Knicks and Magic are on the fringe of making noise. We dive in.

Kyle Irving

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What to watch: Can Bucks close it out in Game 6?

Following a thrilling Game 5 road victory, the Bucks have an opportunity to close out this series and win their first NBA title since 1971 in Milwaukee. Do the Suns have what it takes to pick up a road win and extend the series to Game 7?

Kyle Irving

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Nine thoughts on Space Jam 2

It has been 25 years since the debut of the original "Space Jam" film that featured NBA icon Michael Jordan. A long-awaited remake, featuring another all-time great in LeBron James, finally hit theaters on Friday and it did not disappoint. Here are some thoughts on "Space Jam: A New Legacy."

Kyle Irving

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Wizards sign Unseld Jr. as next head coach

The Wizards announced that they have reached an agreement with Nuggets' associate head coach Wes Unseld Jr. to become their new head coach. Unseld Jr. spent the last six seasons with the Nuggets, but returns to where his NBA coaching career began, as a former assistant for the Wizards from 2005 to 2011.

Kyle Irving

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Thanasis Antetokounmpo out for Game 5

Bucks forward Thanasis Antetokounmpo has been ruled out for Game 5 of the NBA Finals due to the league's health and safety protocols, as revealed by Milwaukee's Game 5 injury report.

Kyle Irving

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Debating potential Simmons trade packages

Shams Charania of The Athletic broke the news that the 76ers have "opened up trade conversations" surrounding three-time All-Star Ben Simmons. Having already looked at potential trade destinations for him, two members of our NBA.com Staff debate about potential packages for Simmons.

Kyle Irving

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Cloth Talk: 'Space Jam: A New Legacy' edition

With the release of "Space Jam: A New Legacy" on the horizon and the reveal of the exclusive LeBron 19 sneakers debuted in the movie, two members of our NBA.com Staff dive in to their thoughts on the upcoming film. From the newly announced Space Jam merchandise, the cast of NBA and WNBA players on screen and more, get excited for the highly anticipated recreated movie.

Kyle Irving

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Ranking Booker's toughest shots from Game 2

Devin Booker started Game 2 shooting 1-for-7 from the field in the first 10 minutes of the first quarter but you know what they say... shooters shoot. The 24-year-old superstar's confidence didn't waver, as he continued to let it fly until he got into a rhythm. The result: a team-high 31 points on seven 3-pointers, delivering big shot after big shot to place the Suns two wins away from an NBA title.

Kyle Irving

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What to watch: Can Bucks steal one in Phoenix?

The Suns protected home court in Game 1, defeating the Bucks behind a flurry of pick-and-rolls between Chris Paul, Devin Booker and Deandre Ayton. Can Milwaukee find an answer to Phoenix's unstoppable offensive set to steal one on the road?

Kyle Irving

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Ayton is a mismatch nightmare in Suns PnR

Chris Paul and Devin Booker have received a lot of credit for how they've been able to manipulate defences in the pick-and-roll throughout the playoffs. Game 1 of the Finals was no exception as the Suns rode their favourite set to a victory once again. While Paul and Booker have been sensational, the key to the Phoenix's success in the screen-and-roll has been Deandre Ayton, the Suns' unsung hero.

Kyle Irving

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X-Factors who can decide Finals

On the NBA's biggest and brightest stage, the pressure often falls on the shoulders of the stars who carried their teams to this point in the season. While it's vitally important for the likes of Chris Paul, Devin Booker, Deandre Ayton, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Khris Middleton and Jrue Holiday to keep pace with their postseason output thus far, who are the other players who could help decide which team wins the Finals?

Kyle Irving

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Six pressing questions ahead of 2021 NBA Draft

Two members of our NBA.com Global Staff proposed three questions each and provided answers to more than a handful of things you're wondering about the upcoming 2021 NBA Draft. From the rumours of Cade Cunningham's placement to dissecting notions about this draft class to sleepers and more, take a look at two different perspectives on each topic.

Kyle Irving

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What to watch: Bucks look to close out Hawks in Game 6

Game 5 saw two teams compete without their best players and the Bucks prevailed behind massive performances from their supporting cast to take a 3-2 lead in the series. One win away from the NBA Finals, can Milwaukee close things out on the road in Atlanta to win the Eastern Conference?

Kyle Irving

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The rocky road to CP3's first-ever NBA Finals

In 16 seasons and 12 playoff appearances, future Hall of Famer Chris Paul had never made the NBA Finals ... until now. With the Suns closing out the Clippers in the Western Conference Finals, Paul leaves behind a history of first-round exits, surrendered leads and injury-bitten playoff runs as he finds himself just four wins away from an ever-elusive NBA title.

Kyle Irving

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What to watch: ECF reaches pivotal Game 5

The Trae Young-less Hawks stunned the Bucks in Game 4 to even the series at 2-2 and Milwaukee may be without Giannis Antetokounmpo moving forward. The two-time MVP suffered a knee injury in the loss, but his MRI results reportedly came back better than expected. Still listed as doubtful for Game 5, can the Bucks get it done without their best player?

Kyle Irving

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What to watch for in Bucks-Hawks Game 3

The Bucks annihilated the Hawks by 34 points to even the series in Game 2 before heading to Atlanta to Game 3. What type of adjustments will the Hawks have to make to defend home court and fight back against Milwaukee?

Kyle Irving

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Jackson's been the X-Factor in Kawhi's absence

The Clippers have overcome two 2-0 deficits so far this postseason, becoming the first franchise in NBA history to do so, and they'll have to have a third up their sleeve if they're going to advance to the NBA Finals. Without All-Star forward Kawhi Leonard in the lineup, who has helped fill that production alongside Paul George to keep LA's season going? X-factor Reggie Jackson.

Kyle Irving

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Irving Mock Draft 1.0: Post-NBA Draft Lottery

It's official: the Pistons have won the 2021 NBA Draft Lottery! While that all but certainly means projected No. 1 pick Cade Cunningham will end up in a Detroit uniform, where will the rest of the top prospects in the 2021 NBA Draft class land?

Kyle Irving

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Booker drops 40-point triple-double to take Game 1

What an unbelievable performance for 24-year-old superstar Devin Booker. In his first-ever Conference Finals appearance, Booker erupted for the first triple-double of his career, giving the Suns 40 points, 13 rebounds and 11 assists to outlast a strong showing from Clippers star Paul George and take Game 1.

Kyle Irving

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Suns GM Jones wins Exec. of the Year

James Jones took over as the Suns general manager in 2019 with the team coming off of a 19-63 season. In two years, he has led the franchise to the second-best record in the NBA and its first Conference Finals appearance since 2010.

Kyle Irving

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Which Aussies have declared for the draft?

There are only two Australians in the 2021 NBA Draft pool but the country will certainly begin a streak of having at least one native player selected into the NBA, building off of last year's No. 18 overall pick Josh Green.

Kyle Irving

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Preview: Suns-Clippers Western Conference Finals

The Suns and Clippers are set for a showdown, reaching the Western Conference Finals stage in very different ways. Phoenix swept its way past the Nuggets to reach the Conference Finals for the first time since its last postseason appearance in 2010. LA had to pull off two wins over the Jazz without All-Star forward Kawhi Leonard to reach the first Conference Finals in franchise history.

Kyle Irving

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Nets' guide to 2021 NBA Draft

The Nets' season came to a close in heartbreaking fashion, falling to the Bucks in Game 7 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals. Brooklyn will now shift its focus to an offseason with a couple of pressing decisions to contend again next year.

Kyle Irving

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Simmons needs to be answer for Young

The 76ers surrendered home court advantage after dropping Game 1 to the Hawks and Trae Young had his fingerprints all over the victory. If Philadelphia is going to keep its championship aspirations alive, head coach Doc Rivers has to utilize Defensive Player of the Year candidate Ben Simmons to contain Atlanta's prolific playmaker.

Kyle Irving

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Kawhi, Doncic duel in Clippers' Game 7 win

The heavy hitters came to play in a win-or-go-home Game 7. Luka Doncic was unbelievable, going for 46 points, 14 assists and seven rebounds but it wasn't enough for the Mavericks to overcome the Clippers. Behind Kawhi Leonard's near-triple-double of 28 points, 10 rebounds and nine assists, LA advances to the Conference Semifinals.

Kyle Irving

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KD's back to being most unguardable player in the league

Kevin Durant is back to doing what he does best: terrorizing opposing defences and scoring with ease. Averaging 32.6 points per game on 50-50-90 shooting splits, Durant has shaken off any signs of rust and once again looks like the most unstoppable bucket-getter in the NBA.

Kyle Irving

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Booker rising to occasion in first playoff series

Devin Booker's talent was never denied, but it was questioned if it could contribute to winning basketball. During a breakout playoff-series debut, in which he has LeBron James on the brink of first-round elimination for the first time in his career, Booker has elevated his play on the brightest stage the NBA has to offer.

Kyle Irving

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Celtics president Ainge stepping down, replaced by Stevens

One day after the Celtics were eliminated by the Nets in the first round of the playoffs, there has been a massive shake-up within the franchise. Team president Danny Ainge is stepping down from his role, while head coach Brad Stevens is to transitioning to a full-time front office role.

Kyle Irving

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What Embiid's injury means for 76ers

76ers centre Joel Embiid was forced to leave Game 4 early with right knee soreness, resulting in Philadelphia's first loss of the series as Washington avoided a sweep. What does this injury mean for the top-seeded Sixers moving forward if Embiid is forced to miss time?

Kyle Irving

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Preview: Will winner of Nets-Bucks reach NBA Finals?

The Nets have defeated the Celtics in five games, advancing to the Eastern Conference Semifinals for the first time since 2014. Awaiting them is Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Bucks, who walked through their first-round matchup in four games, setting the stage for one of the best series the 2021 NBA Playoffs will have to offer.

Kyle Irving

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DiVincenzo out for rest of playoffs

Bucks starting guard Donte DiVincenzo suffered an ankle injury in the team's blowout Game 3 victory over the Heat. Milwaukee announced on Friday that DiVincenzo will miss the remainder of the playoffs after being diagnosed with a torn ligament in his left ankle.

Kyle Irving

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What to watch for in Sunday's playoff games

Sunday's busy slate consists of four playoff games, a pair of Game 4s and a pair of Game 3s. The Bucks will look to sweep the Heat, the Trail Blazers will try and even the series with the Nuggets, the 76ers look to keep the Wizards winless and the Grizzlies and Jazz aim to take a one-game lead in their series. Here are a couple of things to watch for in Saturday's games.

Kyle Irving

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Keys to Thursday's Game 2s

The 2021 NBA Playoffs roll on with three Game 2s on Thursday. The Wizards are trying to steal a win in Philadelphia, the Hawks are looking to take another one from the Knicks at Madison Square Garden and the highly anticipated return of Donovan Mitchell sets the table for a big one between the Jazz and Grizzlies.

Kyle Irving

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What to watch for: Tuesday's Game 2s

There are two Game 2s on tap for Tuesday, with the Heat looking to even the series against the Bucks and the Nuggets trying to come away with one home win against the Trail Blazers. What are the keys to each of these games?

Kyle Irving

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Davis on Lakers' Game 1 loss: 'It's on me'

Following a lacklustre performance in the Lakers' Game 1 loss to the Suns, star forward Anthony Davis took the blame for his team's efforts. Davis only scored 13 points with seven rebounds, being outplayed by Deandre Ayton to fall behind 1-0 in the series.

Kyle Irving

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Booker stars in playoff debut as Suns handle Lakers

Making his highly anticipated playoff debut, Devin Booker starred by scoring a franchise record-setting 34 points in his first postseason game. He and his co-star Deandre Ayton, who was also making his playoff debut, held it down for the ailing Chris Paul to defeat the Lakers.

Kyle Irving

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Harris, Simmons' career games lead 76ers to Game 1 win

Tobias Harris came out in attack mode in this one, going off for a playoff career-best 37 points to lead the 76ers over the Wizards in Game 1. His efforts combined with 30 points from Joel Embiid and a career-high 15 assists from Ben Simmons proved to be too much for Washington to handle.

Kyle Irving

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Preview: Knicks-Hawks a clash of opposite powers

The Knicks swept the Hawks 3-0 in the regular season series but Atlanta displayed a rotation that hardly resembles the lineups that are clicking heading into the postseason in two of those matchups. New York's defence versus Atlanta's offence makes for a true clash of opposite powers in what should be a thrilling playoff series.

Kyle Irving

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Luka's triple-double leads Mavericks to Game 1 win

The legacy of Luka Doncic continues as the 22-year-old phenom dropped a triple-double of 31 points, 11 assists and 10 rebounds to lead the Mavericks past the Clippers for a Game 1 win.

Kyle Irving

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Holiday's impact felt in Game 1 win

The Bucks turned heads when they traded a massive hall for defensive-minded guard Jrue Holiday this past offseason, but it only took one playoff game to justify the move. Although Khris Middleton's game-winning shot stole the show, Holiday heavily impacted Game 1 to help the Bucks come away with a win.

Kyle Irving

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Which players have most to prove this playoffs?

With the 2021 NBA Playoffs starting up on Saturday, players will have the opportunity to shine on the bright stage and step up for their teams in pursuit of a championship. But as we've seen before legacies can be defined in the postseason, so you better bring your A-game. Who are the players that have the most to prove this playoffs?

Kyle Irving

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Preview: Can Celtics keep up with Nets Big 3?

The reward for the Celtics claiming the No. 7 seed in the East by winning their Play-In Game? A matchup against the powerhouse Nets. Can Jayson Tatum and Kemba Walker produce enough firepower to keep up with Brooklyn's Big 3 of Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving and James Harden?

Kyle Irving

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Preview: Can Heat down Bucks again?

The Heat upset the Bucks in a shocking five-game fashion last postseason, using the series to gain momentum and eventually make a run to the NBA Finals. Milwaukee will be back with a vengeance this time around, but as we saw last year, Miami isn't going to go down without a fight.

Kyle Irving

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Celtics will go as far as Tatum can carry them

Without his All-Star partner Jaylen Brown, superstar forward Jayson Tatum knew he needed to elevate his game if the Celtics were going to have a chance of making any noise this postseason. After scoring 50 points against the Wizards in the Play-In Game to lead Boston to the No. 7 seed in the East, it's becoming clear that this team will only go as far as the 23-year-old can take them.

Kyle Irving

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Biggest X-factors in Play-In Tournament

The stage is set for the first-ever expanded Play-In Tournament! You know who the stars are on each team in the Play-In games, but who are the biggest X-factors set to play a role in their team's chances of qualifying for the playoffs?

Kyle Irving

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There will never be another KG

A one-time champion with an MVP, Defensive Player of the Year and 15 All-Star selections to his name, Kevin Garnett's decorated career is set to be honoured this weekend when the all-time great gets inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame. But as NBA.com's Kyle Irving explains, his legacy goes far beyond the accolades.

Kyle Irving

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10 best moments of Kobe's career

With the late, great Kobe Bryant set to be honoured into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame this weekend, take a look at 10 of the best moments in the Lakers legend's career.

Kyle Irving

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Who should be Rookie of the Year?

Welcome back to the final NBA Rookie Ladder of the 2020-21 NBA season! This time around, we will provide you with our final rankings for the 2021 Rookie of the Year race, with the players in the top-five of the ladder projected as our pick to make the All-Rookie First Team. Take a look and see how the final results shaped out.

Kyle Irving

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Oladipo to have season-ending surgery

The Heat today announced that Victor Oladipo will receive season-ending surgery on his right quadriceps tendon. The 29-year-old is set to become an unrestricted free agent this offseason.

Kyle Irving

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Heat clinch a top-six seed in playoffs

After defeating the Celtics for the second-consecutive game in a row, the Heat have paved their own path into the 2021 NBA Playoffs. Do the reigning Eastern Conference champions have another NBA Finals run in them?

Kyle Irving

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Play-In Tournament looms large for Celtics

When the Celtics comeback came up short against the Heat on Sunday (ET), they not only sacrificed the tiebreaker in the season series, they also put themselves two games back from the Miami for the No. 6 seed in the East. With the Play-In Tournament now looming large for Boston, can it respond with a much-needed win against the Heat in their very next contest?

Kyle Irving

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Is Giddey a lottery pick?

Aussie superstar guard Josh Giddey has declared for the 2021 NBA Draft. The 18-year-old's production in the NBL has his name shooting up draft boards, but what exactly will he bring to the NBA team that selects him?

Kyle Irving

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Cloth Talk: End-of-season fashion awards

With the 2020-21 NBA season coming to a close, end-of-season awards are on the horizon. In this edition of Cloth Talk – where we delve into all things style – we'll make our award selections strictly based on players' fashion. From Rookie of the Year to All-NBA to MVP, take a look and see which players had award-worthy seasons on the pregame runway.

Kyle Irving

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What did we learn in showdown between Durant and Giannis?

Giannis Antetokounmpo and Kevin Durant both returned from one-game absences ahead of this marquee matchup between the Bucks and Nets and it did not disappoint. Antetokounmpo went for 49 points while Durant went for 42 points in a heavyweight battle between two of the best teams in the league.

Kyle Irving

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How did LaMelo look in first game back?

After missing the last 21 games with a fractured wrist, the Hornets star guard LaMelo Ball returned to action in Sunday's contest against the Pistons. How did the Rookie of the Year-hopeful play in his first game back?

Kyle Irving

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Irving's one-of-a-kind wizardry in three plays

Nets star guard Kyrie Irving is a magician on the court, that is well documented by now. His ball-on-a-string handles, tough-shot-making ability and feathery touch on layups and floaters often has viewers befuddled and lost in the artistry that is one of the most unique styles of play the game has ever seen.

Kyle Irving

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How did Durant look in his first game back?

All-Star forward Kevin Durant missed a total of 26 games from February to April due to a hamstring injury. Once he finally returned to play, he appeared in four games before suffering a thigh contusion that would force him to miss another three contests. Returning to action sooner than expected, the four-time scoring champion picked up right where he left off to help lead the Nets past the Suns.

Kyle Irving

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With return on horizon, can Ball catch Edwards?

Welcome back to our 2020-21 NBA Rookie Ladder! Every other Friday, we will provide you with updated rankings to track which first-year players are leading the Rookie of the Year race. There wasn't any movement in the top five this week, but with LaMelo Ball's return on the horizon, the star guard has his work cut out for him if he's going to catch Anthony Edwards.

Kyle Irving

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Must-add players for fantasy playoffs

Whether you're in the final week of the regular season, first week of the playoffs or the playoffs are already under way in your fantasy basketball league, check your waiver wire to see if these players are available to help your pursuit for a championship.

Kyle Irving

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Report: Mitchell (ankle) to miss 'several' games

Jazz All-Star guard Donovan Mitchell suffered an ankle injury in the third quarter of their game against the Pacers on Friday (ET). He was unable to walk to the locker room under his own power, being helped by his teammates. ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski reported that Mitchell's MRI revealed no structural damage, but he is expected to miss "several" games upon his return.

Kyle Irving

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Jackie Robinson the ... basketball player?

In the United States, April 15 is annually celebrated by Major League Baseball as Jackie Robinson Day, the anniversary of when one of the game's all-time greats is honoured for breaking the league's colour barrier back in 1947. But did you know that the sport's paramount pioneer had a lengthy list of opportunities to choose professional basketball instead of baseball? This is the story of Jackie Robinson, the basketball player.

Kyle Irving

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Three stats to know from Trent's career night

44 points on 19 shots. Gary Trent Jr. had the hot hand against the Cavaliers, notching a career-high in scoring on rarely-before-seen efficiency to help lead the shorthanded Raptors to victory.

Kyle Irving

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Who is Lakers' go-to option without LeBron and AD?

The Lakers are trying to keep their season afloat while LeBron James and Anthony Davis recover from injury, but who is stepping up in their absence as the team's go-to guy? There are four different players vying for that title but the team as a whole is looking to avoid sliding further down the standings with only 20 games remaining.

Kyle Irving

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Who took the top spot from injured Ball?

Welcome back to our 2020-21 NBA Rookie Ladder! Every other Friday, we will provide you with updated rankings to track which first-year players are leading the Rookie of the Year race. LaMelo Ball's injury has paved the way for a different first-year player to take the top rank since the first week of this ladder, but who claimed that spot? Also, a new rookie enters the top five for their first time this season.

Kyle Irving

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CP3 is making a Nash-like run at MVP

Nash was an outlier when he won the 2005 NBA MVP. Averaging just 15.5 points per game, he ranked fourth on his own team in scoring, but his undeniable impact in leading the Suns to the best record in the Western Conference still allowed him to retain the award. They say history repeats itself and over a decade later, Chris Paul is following that same blueprint with the same franchise, looking to bring Phoenix back to a place they haven't been since Nash left. If the Suns grab the top seed in the West, how can CP3 be ignored from MVP conversations?

Kyle Irving

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Cloth Talk: Analyzing the WNBA's new looks

In celebration of its 25th season, the WNBA is going to have quite a few new looks in 2021 – 36 to be exact. With each of the league's 12 teams receiving three new uniforms, NBA.com's Gil McGregor and Kyle Irving are back to break down what each means while discussing a few of their favourites from the bunch.

Kyle Irving

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Anunoby, Harrell ejected in first quarter

In the first quarter of Tuesday's matchup between the Raptors and Lakers, Dennis Schroder served a hard foul on OG Anunoby which sparked a bit of a scrap. As a result, Anunoby and Montrezl Harrell were ejected from the contest.

Kyle Irving

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How the Hornets became must-see TV

When you're trying to decide what teams to watch on any given night, what are some of the deciding factors? As the combination of close games, intriguing players and a captivating narrative make for a must-watch product, look no further than the Hornets. With LaMelo Ball, Terry Rozier, Gordon Hayward and company, Charlotte has quickly become the League Pass darling of the 2020-21 NBA season.

Kyle Irving

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Lakers officially sign Drummond

Help is on the way for the injury-plagued defending champions, as ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski has reported that Andre Drummond will sign with the Lakers once he clears waivers.

Kyle Irving

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OT thriller: Suns survive late flurry from Hornets

The Suns were in the driver's seat of this contest, leading by 12 points with just over five minutes to play in the game, looking like they were going to cruise to a win. The Hornets came charging back with a 14-2 run led by Devonte' Graham to send the game into overtime, but Devin Booker and Phoenix would hold on to close things out.

Kyle Irving

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Fantasy implications of trade deadline moves

The deals made at the NBA Trade Deadline will always have a ripple effect on the Fantasy Basketball world, altering current and future roles for players on rosters and on the waiver wire. Which players were most affected by the deadline's trades and who should you keep an eye out for as a result?

Kyle Irving

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Ball (wrist) re-evaluated in four weeks

Hornets star guard LaMelo Ball suffered a fractured wrist in Saturday's loss to the Clippers, putting the remainder of his rookie season in jeopardy. Following surgery on his wrist injury, the team announced the Rookie of the Year front-runner may not be out for the season, after all, and is set to be re-evaluated in four weeks.

Kyle Irving

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LeBron out indefinitely with ankle sprain

LeBron James suffered an ankle injury in the second quarter of the Lakers contest against the Hawks and has been ruled out indefinitely with a high ankle sprain.

Kyle Irving

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Ingles on pace to make NBA history as shooter

Joe Ingles has been a sharpshooter all season long and as of late, he's heating up as a scorer too. After going for a career-high 34 points earlier in the week, the Aussie forward's efficiency has him on pace to make NBA history.

Kyle Irving

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Is Edwards challenging Ball for top spot?

Welcome back to our 2020-21 NBA Rookie Ladder! Every other Friday, we will provide you with updated rankings to track which first-year players are leading the Rookie of the Year race. Is Anthony Edwards catching up to LaMelo Ball for the top spot? Where did first-year players end up following a top five shuffling?

Kyle Irving

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This Day in NBA History: McGee blocks 12 shots

In the past 20 years, there have only been three players that have blocked 12 shots in an NBA game. That is the most blocked shots by a player in a game in that timeframe.

Kyle Irving

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LeVert set to make Pacers debut vs. Suns

The Pacers acquired Caris LeVert in the four-team deal that sent James Harden to the Nets, but after LeVert's physical revealed a small mass in his kidney that required surgery, the scoring guard was forced to miss time as he recovered. Two months later, LeVert is ahead of schedule and ready to make his return.

Kyle Irving

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Cloth Talk: Breaking down "Earned Edition" uniforms

Welcome into another edition of NBA Cloth Talk, where we delve into all things style in the league. This time around, were discussing the recently-revealed "Earned Edition" uniforms for the 16 teams that qualified for the playoffs in 2020.

Kyle Irving

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Lakeland Magic win G League championship

The Magic held the Blue Coats' G League standout Paul Reed to just 13 points on 6-for-18 shooting from the field in a defensive performance worthy of a championship. Lakeland guard Devin Cannady scored a team-high 22 points in the victory to take home G League Finals MVP.

Kyle Irving

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Fantasy Basketball injury updates

The second half of the 2020-21 NBA season is right around the corner and there are plenty of injury updates to get your team ready for the end of the fantasy season and playoff push.

Kyle Irving

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Fantasy impact of Griffin signing with Nets

The Nets have signed six-time All-Star Blake Griffin and according to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, they plan to use him as a "small-ball centre option off the bench." What does that mean for his fantasy impact and the other bigs on Brooklyn's roster?

Kyle Irving

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The One Year Away All-Stars

A number of players were left just short of achieving that first-time All-Star status this season. From playoff heroes like Fred VanVleet and Jamal Murray to emerging young talents like LaMelo Ball and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, there's no shortage of names sitting on the fringe. We examine all the players who are poised to make that jump to All-Star status next season.

Kyle Irving

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Potential buyout destinations for Griffin

Six-time All-Star forward Blake Griffin has reached a buyout agreement with the Pistons. Teams will have the chance to claim Griffin off waivers before he becomes an unrestricted free agent on Sunday, March 7.

Kyle Irving

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Challenging cases for All-Star reserves

The starters have been selected for the 2021 NBA All-Star Game, meaning the hardest decisions are coming up. Picking the reserves inevitably causes a conversation as deserving players are bound to get left out. Which players will get selected as an All-Star and which players will be left snubbed?

Kyle Irving

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Murray makes history with career-high 50 points

What a night it was for Jamal Murray, who went off for a career-high 50 points in Denver's win over Cleveland. While notching a career-high is impressive in itself, Murray also made league and franchise history with this performance. Take a closer look at the numbers behind his breakout game.

Kyle Irving

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Rookie Ladder: No. 1 pick Edwards is climbing

Welcome back to our 2020-21 NBA Rookie Ladder! Every other Saturday, we will provide you with updated rankings to track which first-year players are leading the Rookie of the Year race. Who is the new rookie that entered the top five? How high did No. 1 overall pick Anthony Edwards climb up the ladder? The latest ladder may surprise you.

Kyle Irving

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Numbers to know from Jazz's dominating run

Joe Ingles and the Jazz have been tearing through the first half of the 2020-21 NBA schedule, running off 20 wins over their last 21 games to hold the best record in the league. The Aussie's hot shooting is one of several impressive elements comprising Utah's success story, along with stifling defense and the strong play of All-Stars Rudy Gobert and Donovan Mitchell. While examining the key stats between the lines, we also look at how the NBA's hottest team has made waves with a historic run of succeeding odds that has only been seen once in the last 30 years.

Kyle Irving

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Ranking 10 best games of MJ's career

Last week featured anniversaries of two of the most iconic performances of Michael Jordan's career. With 'The Last Dance' coming later this month on ESPN, we picked out the top 10 games of MJ's career. Which performance is your favourite?

Kyle Irving

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All-Star Moment: Vucevic continues dominance with 42 points

You might not see the Magic as much as other teams around the NBA but Nikola Vucevic has been nothing short of incredible this season and he deserves your All-Star consideration following another monster performance against the Kings.

Kyle Irving

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Luka and Zion notch career-highs in must-see battle

In a matchup between the future superstars of the NBA, you knew Luka Doncic versus Zion Williamson was going to provide plenty of highlights and entertainment. The battle didn't disappoint as Doncic and Williamson each went off for career-highs in scoring as the Mavericks knocked off the Pelicans.

Kyle Irving

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Buy-low Fantasy Basketball trade targets

Looking for a way to help your fantasy team take a leap into the playoff picture or go from pretender to contender? Take a look at six players that are under-performing at the moment but should get back on track sooner than later, meaning you could get them for below their typical value on the trade market.

Kyle Irving

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Kuminga steals the show in Ignite debut

Jonathan Kuminga and Jalen Green, two potential top prospects in the 2021 NBA Draft, made their professional debut in the G League Ignite's first game against the Santa Cruz Warriors. How did the dynamic duo fare in their first NBA contest?

Kyle Irving

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Did the Jazz take the top spot from the Lakers?

The Jazz own the best record in the NBA after winning 15 of their last 16 games, but was it enough to take the top spot from the defending champion Lakers? Which teams made the biggest leap in this week's rankings and who is the new team that entered the top 10 for the first time this season?

Kyle Irving

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ROY & MVP candidates duel in Kings win over Nuggets

The Kings' rookie guard Tyrese Haliburton posted a career-high 23 points to help Sacramento fend off a career-high 50 points from Most Valuable Player candidate Nikola Jokic.

Kyle Irving

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All-Star Matchup: Kawhi-PG or Tatum-Brown?

The Clippers host the Celtics on Saturday in a marquee matchup between potential All-Stars as Kawhi Leonard and Paul George go head-to-head with Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. Both of their meetings needed overtime to decide an outcome last season and with all four players elevating their game to another level this season, you won't want to miss this one.

Kyle Irving

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Did any rookie take the top spot from Ball?

Welcome back to our 2020-21 NBA Rookie Ladder! Every other Saturday, we will provide you with updated rankings to track which first-year players are leading the Rookie of the Year race. Did any rookie challenge LaMelo Ball for the top spot? Who are the new rookies making their first appearance on the ladder?

Kyle Irving

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What are the best BHM edition sneakers?

Welcome to a special edition of NBA.com's Cloth Talk, where NBA.com writers delve into all things style in the NBA. With Black History Month upon us, NBA players have begun to pay tribute by rocking special edition sneakers on the court. Gilbert McGregor and Kyle Irving discuss their all-time favourite "BHM" edition kicks and share some personal stories along the way.

Kyle Irving

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A closer look at VanVleet's historic night

Fred VanVleet torched the Magic for a franchise-record-setting 54 points on 11 3-pointers to help lead the Raptors to a win. Take a closer look at his historic performance by the numbers.

Kyle Irving

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Waiver Wire Pickups: Who to add for Week 7

This week's waiver wire pickups highlight a couple veterans that are thriving in a new opportunity and a pair of rookies that are starting to get comfortable in the league. Take a look and see what players to add to give you a boost for the upcoming week.

Kyle Irving

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Next chapter of Lakers-Celtics rivalry is being written

Back in 2012, when 14-year-old Jayson Tatum tweeted at LeBron James for a follow back, the teenager could have never known what this matchup would become. Dunking on his idol in the Eastern Conference Finals six years later set the stage for future showdowns, but when LeBron elected to sign with the Lakers following that season, it started the next chapter in the historic Celtics-Lakers rivalry.

Kyle Irving

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Waiver Wire Pickups: Who to add for Week 6

This week's Waiver Wire Pickups provides some reliable and available options to replace Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, who are out for the time-being due to health and safety protocols. It also has a couple potential long-term options and some intriguing names to add to your watch list for the coming weeks.

Kyle Irving

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Clippers, Jazz climbing fast riding win streaks

Five weeks into the 2020-21 NBA season, we're beginning to see which teams are real and which teams are not. As our weekly Power Rankings begin to develop some consistency, there has still been plenty of movement among the top 10. How far did the Clippers and Jazz rise? How far did the Nets and Suns fall?

Kyle Irving

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Capela joins history in consecutive games

Clint Capela has been on a tear as of late. After recording a double-double of 27 points and 26 rebounds just a game ago, the Hawks' centre followed that performance with a rare triple-double with 10 blocks in the team's win over the Timberwolves.

Kyle Irving

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Rookie Ladder: Did LaMelo take the top spot?

Welcome back to our 2020-21 NBA Rookie Ladder! Every other Friday, we will provide you with updated rankings to track which first-year players are leading the Rookie of the Year race. After previously coming in at No. 2, did LaMelo Ball take over the top spot? Which rookies fell out of the top-five and which rookies jumped into the top-five?

Kyle Irving

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Buy or Sell: Which fantasy players should you move?

One month into the 2020-21 NBA season, you're probably beginning to identify which players to keep or part ways with on your fantasy roster. As the trade market heats up, should you buy or sell players like Trae Young, Donovan Mitchell, Devin Booker and Julius Randle?

Kyle Irving

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Hawks earn their letters with win in MLK uniforms

Hosting a game on Martin Luther King Jr. Day is nothing new to the Hawks but this holiday in particular had a little more meaning behind it, as they debuted their new MLK City Edition uniforms and court. With Dr. King's initials scripted proudly across Atlanta's uniforms, Trae Young and the Hawks were able to hold off the Timberwolves and scrap out a win on Dr. King's birthday.

Kyle Irving

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Waiver Wire Pickups: Who to add for Week 5

As postponed games begin to impact your fantasy team's roster, being on top of the trending players on the waiver wire become all that much more important. Our Week 5 waiver wire pickups provide you with a couple long-term options and a few streaming options to keep your team chugging along through schedule changes.

Kyle Irving

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Pacers' LeVert ruled out indefinitely

Recently acquired by the Pacers in the megadeal that sent James Harden to the Nets, Caris LeVert has been ruled out indefinitely after a small mass was found on his kidney during his physical with Indiana.

Kyle Irving

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Harden to make Nets debut vs. Magic

With the four-team megadeal now complete, one-time MVP James Harden will make his Brooklyn Nets debut against the Orlando Magic on Sunday (AEDT).

Kyle Irving

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Cloth Talk: A tribute fit for a King

Welcome to a special edition of NBA.com's Cloth Talk, where Gilbert McGregor and Kyle Irving delve into all things style in the NBA. As the league prepares to honour the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on MLK Day, we use this edition to take an even closer look at the special way his hometown Hawks will pay tribute to him throughout the season as they debut their MLK "City Edition" uniforms, as well as why the Memphis Grizzlies always play at home on MLK Day.

Kyle Irving

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Rookie Ladder: Top 5 rookies to watch

Welcome to our 2020-21 NBA Rookie Ladder, where we will provide you with updated rankings to track which first-year players are leading the Rookie of the Year race. Did LaMelo Ball take the top spot? Did No. 1 pick Anthony Edwards crack the top five? Who is the surprise rookie rising up the ladder?

Kyle Irving

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Celtics, Suns climbing the rankings

Just three weeks into the NBA season, there has already been a ton of movement in our weekly NBA Power Rankings. Teams like the Celtics and Suns have made their way into the top five while both the Warriors and Mavericks re-enter the top 10. Take a look and see where your favourite team landed this week!

Kyle Irving

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Waiver Wire Pickups: Who to add for Week 4

Another week of fantasy basketball waiver wire pickups is here and there are a handful of names you won't want to miss out on. Highlighted by a pair of rookies taking on bigger roles and a certain centre that's graduated from the watch list to being a must-add, take a look at a list of players that will surely help improve your roster.

Kyle Irving

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Optimal viewing plan for 11-game slate

Thursday is a dream slate for NBA basketball fans and League Pass owners with 11 games of action. With plenty of good matchups headlined by Pacers-Rockets, 76ers-Wizards, Heat-Celtics, Suns-Raptors and Warriors-Clippers, many of the league's best players and teams will take the floor and you won't want to miss a second of it. Here we have you covered with the optimal viewing plan on how to navigate your television to catch it all.

Kyle Irving

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Waiver Wire Pickups: Who to add this week

We're two weeks into the fantasy basketball season. At this point, you're probably starting to see where the holes are in your roster. To help improve your team, we have you covered with weekly Waiver Wire pickups to assure you stay in the hunt for that coveted fantasy championship.

Kyle Irving

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Power Rankings: Did the Nets pass the Lakers?

One week into the 2020-21 NBA season and we've already seen plenty of movement in our weekly Power Rankings. With a couple surprise undefeated and winless teams and a dominant showing from top dogs like the Nets and Clippers, this week's rankings already look completely different than the week prior.

Kyle Irving

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Irving's return to Boston brings new energy

It had been over a year since Kyrie Irving's departure from the Celtics when the Nets traveled to Boston for a preseason contest. It was Irving's first time back in the city he left behind, where the fan base has yet to forget how their partnership with the All-Star guard turned out. With no fans in the stands to jeer his return to the TD Garden, Irving had a peaceful pregame ritual attempting to overturn any remaining bad energy in the arena. When these teams meet in Boston again on Christmas Day, appreciate that new energy as a sign of what was best for the future for both Irving and the Celtics.

Kyle Irving

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Santa's NBA Naughty and Nice list

Santa has less information available to him than ever before when he crafted his NBA Naughty and Nice list this year, with only a few games played leading up to Christmas Day. Which teams and players will end up with a mountain of toys or a lump of coal under their tree this year?

Kyle Irving

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Who enters the season in the top-10?

The 2020-21 NBA season is upon us! After a whirlwind of an offseason that saw the draft, free agency, training camp and preseason go by in the blink of an eye, it's time for NBA basketball again. Which teams have best positioned themselves to make a run at a title? Which teams regressed since we last saw them take the floor? Check out our NBA Power Rankings heading into the new season.

Kyle Irving

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30 in 30: What can we expect from Raptors?

The Raptors handled their biggest question of the offseason when they re-signed Fred VanVleet, but they lost two key pieces in Serge Ibaka and Marc Gasol. With a high level of pressure on All-Star forward Pascal Siakam to bounce back from his performance in the bubble and plenty of new faces in the team's rotation, what can be expected of Toronto?

Kyle Irving

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Report: Gobert, Jazz reach max extension

Two-time Defensive Player of the Year award winner Rudy Gobert has agreed to a five-year max contract extension worth $205 million with the Jazz, the largest deal in NBA history for a centre.

Kyle Irving

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Holiday donates salary to Black-owned small businesses

Bucks All-Star guard Jrue Holiday has pledged the remainder of his 2020 NBA salary to Black-owned small businesses and nonprofit organizations, as announced on his personal Instagram account.

Kyle Irving

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Don't sleep on these players for fantasy basketball

Everyone knows the big names to target on draft night and most even know the secondary stars they'll want on their team heading into the season. But who are some players to keep an eye out for later in the draft? Hitting on sleeper picks can take your team to the next level, so keep tabs on these names on the draft board.

Kyle Irving

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2020-21 Fantasy Basketball Draft Kit

Fantasy Basketball draft season is upon us and we have you covered with a one-stop-shop for everything you'll need to get prepared for the upcoming season. Top 200 player rankings, a full mock draft, the fantasy sleepers to keep an eye out for and key injuries to be aware of on draft night highlight the contents of our 2020-21 Fantasy Basketball Draft Kit.

Kyle Irving

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Injuries that will impact your fantasy draft

There are a handful of players that would typically be selected early in 2020-21 Fantasy Basketball drafts but due to injury may see their draft stock take a slide. When can you expect Kemba Walker, Kristaps Porzingis and other key fantasy players to return to the floor this season?

Kyle Irving

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Fantasy Basketball: Top 200 players

The 2020-21 NBA season is right around the corner, which means it's time for fantasy basketball season, too! If you don't know who to select in your upcoming draft, we've got you covered with rankings of the top 200 players for fantasy basketball this season.

Kyle Irving

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30 in 30: Will Magic take next step as playoff team?

The Magic will start the season behind the 8-ball with young defensive star Jonathan Isaac out for the season with a torn ACL. With increased competition around them in the middle of the pack of the Eastern Conference, can All-Star centre Nikola Vucevic and former top-five pick Aaron Gordon bring Orlando back to the playoffs for a third-straight year?

Kyle Irving

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Knicks have ROY candidate in Toppin

Obi Toppin took home every National Player of the Year award that college basketball has to offer in 2019-20, yet he still fell well past his projection on draft night. Where we've seen the Knicks take a home run swing and whiff in the draft in years past, they capitalized on the opportunity to make the correct and safe selection when a top-five talent fell into their lap at No. 8.

Kyle Irving

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How Edwards fits next to Wolves stars

The Timberwolves selected Georgia freshman Anthony Edwards with the No. 1 overall pick of the 2020 NBA Draft, slotting him alongside current franchise cornerstones Karl-Anthony Towns and D'Angelo Russell to form the team's core of the future. But how will Edwards fit next to Towns and Russell?

Kyle Irving

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30 in 30: Is it championship or bust for the Bucks?

It has been 46 years since the Bucks last went to the NBA Finals. With a re-tooled roster, headlined by the addition of Jrue Holiday around two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee should be poised to run the East again. But will the biggest question of the NBA offseason looming large have an impact on the team's production?

Kyle Irving

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30 in 30: Can Pacers overcome playoff hurdle?

The Pacers have qualified for the playoffs in five consecutive seasons but all five appearances have resulted in a first-round exit. With their core group of Domantas Sabonis, Malcolm Brogdon and Victor Oladipo all expected to start the season at full health, will this be the year that Indiana not only makes the playoffs, but advances past the first round?

Kyle Irving

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2020-21 Fantasy Basketball Mock Draft

The NBA regular season is right around the corner, meaning fantasy basketball drafts are even closer! Our NBA.com Global Staff did a fantasy mock draft of our own to help you prepare for your upcoming fantasy draft.

Kyle Irving

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Can't-miss rookie matchups in first half

Since the rookies didn't get to experience Summer League with the quick turnaround between the NBA Draft and the start of the 2020-21 regular season, we'll have to use meaningful games to spotlight the prospects' first matchups. Take a look at some can't-miss matchups to look forward to in the first half of the season.

Kyle Irving

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Christmas Day schedule released

There are five games slated for Christmas Day, headlined by Nets guard Kyrie Irving's return to Boston and a showdown between Lakers forward LeBron James and Mavericks guard Luka Doncic.

Kyle Irving

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Have the Lakers retained the No. 1 spot?

With NBA training camps opening on Dec. 2 (AEDT) and the majority of offseason moves behind us, it's time to rank the best teams in the NBA following their decisions in the draft, trade market and free agency. Which teams took the leap to get better? Who fell through the cracks and slid down since last season?

Kyle Irving

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How far can Doncic take the Mavericks?

The injury riddled Dallas Mavericks were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs last season and will be without Kristaps Porzingis for the start of the 2020-21 season. Can Luka Doncic continue to elevate his play as a potential MVP candidate and carry the Mavericks as far as they can go?

Kyle Irving

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How Delly brought out best in Cavs' cornerstone Sexton

Matthew Dellavedova took over as the lead floor general for the Cavaliers in their last five games last season. While dishing out assists at a career-best rate, the Aussie veteran was also able to illuminate the play of the franchise's cornerstone Collin Sexton.

Kyle Irving

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Will the Bulls draft gamble pay off?

The Bulls selected Florida State forward Patrick Williams with the No. 4 pick in the 2020 NBA Draft, turning heads with the prospect being selected much earlier than anyone anticipated. Will Chicago's gamble pay off? Or will it be the reach of the draft?

Kyle Irving

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The most overlooked prospect of the 2020 draft class

Tyrese Haliburton is used to being overlooked. As a three-star recruit coming out of high school, he's worked his way up to becoming one of the top prospects in the 2020 NBA Draft. With other flashy names like Anthony Edwards and LaMelo Ball taking the spotlight on draft night, keep an eye on which lucky franchise ends up with the Iowa State product.

Kyle Irving

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Tristan Thompson is Boston's missing piece

The Celtics have reportedly signed Tristan Thompson to a two-year, $19 million deal, filling a void in their frontcourt rotation. Adding a physical presence with championship DNA, Thompson helps Boston take a step toward getting over the hurdle that has been the Eastern Conference Finals in three of the last four seasons.

Kyle Irving

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Report: Ingram signs max extension with Pelicans

Brandon Ingram made his first All-Star appearance this past season averaging 23.8 points, 6.1 rebounds, 4.2 assists and 1.0 steals per game. His efforts earned him the NBA's Most Improved Player of the Year award.

Kyle Irving

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Are the Celtics title contenders?

With Jaylen Brown entering the first year of his contract extension signed last offseason and Jayson Tatum signing a max contract extension worth $195 million, the Celtics now have their star wings locked up until 2024 and 2025, respectively. Can that duo along with other key pieces like Kemba Walker, Marcus Smart and newly added Tristan Thompson make a run at a title?

Kyle Irving

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Report: Thompson signs with Celtics

Veteran centre Tristan Thompson has reportedly signed a two-year deal with the Boston Celtics. The Toronto, Ontario native is coming off of a career-year averaging 12.0 points, 10.1 rebounds and 2.1 assists per game.

Kyle Irving

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Report: Hayward signs four-year deal with Hornets

After declining his $34 million player option with the Boston Celtics, star forward Gordon Hayward has reportedly signed a four-year, $120 million deal with the Charlotte Hornets.

Kyle Irving

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Draft grades and instant analysis from each pick

The 2020 NBA Draft has come and gone, highlighted by Anthony Edwards landing with the Minnesota Timberwolves at the No. 1 pick. Take a look at instant analysis for each pick of the draft, as well as draft grades for each selection in the first round!

Kyle Irving

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Irving Mock Draft 3.0: Updated with latest reported trades

The 2020 NBA Draft is finally here! Take a look at the newest edition of our 2020 NBA Mock Draft, which is up to date with the latest trades and reports, complete with player comparisons and reasoning as to where each prospect could be selected in the first round.

Kyle Irving

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Examining LaMelo's fit with teams at top of draft

After proving himself in Australia, LaMelo Ball is widely considered to be a top prospect in the 2020 draft class, with the expectation that the playmaking point guard will be a top-five pick. We look at how Ball fits with each franchise that might have a chance to select him.

Kyle Irving

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NBA Draft superlatives

The 2020 NBA Draft is almost here. Familiarize yourself with some of the top prospects in this draft class, categorized by which skillsets they excel most in.

Kyle Irving

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Redrafting top-5 picks of every draft since 2000

Wouldn't it be nice if real life gave us do-overs? The NBA Draft is a time for franchises to try and add young, talented players to build to their roster in pursuit of winning a championship, but they don't always get it right. How would the top five picks in each draft of the 2000s look now that we've had some time to see it through?

Kyle Irving

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Cloth Talk: The best new 'Classic' edition uniforms

Welcome to the second edition of NBA.com's Cloth Talk, where Gilbert McGregor and Kyle Irving delve into all things style in the NBA. With new uniforms being revealed by the day, the two key in on teams that have released their 'Classic' edition jerseys for the 2020-21 season such as the Nets, Warriors, Mavericks and Grizzlies.

Kyle Irving

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Hampton doubles down on decision to play in NBL last season

"If you're willing to lose some of the hype but get more of the work, it's definitely your route," 2020 draft prospect RJ Hampton told the media in when asked for advice to anyone that's deciding on whether or not to play abroad out of high school.

Kyle Irving

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Celtics legend Heinsohn passes away

Celtics legend Tom Heinsohn was involved with all 17 of Boston's NBA titles as a player, coach or commentator.

Kyle Irving

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Free agent destinations for Rondo

Rajon Rondo has a player option worth $2.69 million with the Los Angeles Lakers this offseason, but a report has said that he will opt out of his deal and test free agency. While that doesn't mean he won't re-sign with the Lakers on a new deal, take a look at some other options for the two-time NBA champion point guard.

Kyle Irving

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How Okongwu compares to Adebayo

It's well known that USC freshman Onyeka Okongwu has shades of Miami Heat All-Star Bam Adebayo in his game. Take a look at three plays that help paint that picture more clearly.

Kyle Irving

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Irving Mock Draft 2.0: Who's new in the first round?

With the 2020 NBA Draft right around the corner, Mock Drafts are beginning to change as new information becomes available. The second edition of this Mock Draft has plenty of movement in the first round, as well as a few new names entering the conversation.

Kyle Irving

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Best second-round picks in draft history

The NBA switched to a two-round draft in 1989 and since then, there have been some notable names selected in the second round. Who are among the best players that were overlooked in the NBA Draft?

Kyle Irving

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Morey: Simmons, Embiid 'absolutely can work together'

In his introductory press conference as the 76ers new president of basketball operations, Daryl Morey was positive in saying their two All-Stars Ben Simmons and Joel Embiid could co-exist.

Kyle Irving

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On this Date: Jordan sets the tone for first scoring title

On Nov. 2, 1986, Michael Jordan carried the momentum from a playoff explosion the year prior to score 50 points in the Bulls season-opener against the New York Knicks. This performance set the tone for what became Jordan's first of 10 scoring titles in his NBA career.

Kyle Irving

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Free agent destinations for Harrell

Reigning Sixth Man of the Year Montrezl Harrell is set to become an unrestricted free agent this offseason. As one of the best available players in the 2020 free agent class, what are some destinations for the scoring centre?

Kyle Irving

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2020 draft class has a different type of potential

The 2020 NBA Draft class isn't loaded with starpower, but that doesn't mean there's a lack of compelling players worthy of your attention. Reminiscent of an older class from the 2000s featuring the likes of DeAndre Jordan and Serge Ibaka, this year's draft may offer an unusually high number of impact-players to fill key roles on NBA rosters for years to come. We examine which guys have that potential.

Kyle Irving

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