NBA

Celtics Guard’s Breakout Season Turns Heads, Catches Joe Mazzulla’s Eye

14/11/2024 Raymond 0

Payton Pritchard delivered a standout performance in the Celtics’ 139-114 win over the Brooklyn Nets, continuing his breakout season in impressive fashion. Off the bench, he scored 23 points on 8-of-13 shooting, including five 3-pointers, while also contributing eight assists, six rebounds, two steals, and a block. His all-around impact on the court has caught the attention of Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla, who praised Pritchard for his two-way play, versatility in the pick-and-roll, and ability to create pressure on defense. Teammate Jaylen Brown also lauded Pritchard’s growing importance to the team, noting that his standout performances have become expected as he thrives in his role.

Celtics Teammate Defends Jaylen Brown’s Team USA Comments

08/08/2024 Raymond 0

Jaylen Brown’s omission from the United States Olympic roster raised concerns about potential tension within the Boston Celtics, but these fears seem to be unwarranted. Despite his status as the 2024 NBA Finals MVP, Brown was not selected to replace Kawhi Leonard, leading him to publicly criticize Nike, believing the company influenced his exclusion. While some labeled Brown as “selfish” for his comments, teammate Payton Pritchard defended him, stating that there were no hard feelings from Derrick White, who took Leonard’s spot, and reaffirming the Celtics’ unity.

Warriors not budging on stance amid Lauri Markkanen trade pursuit

05/08/2024 Raymond 0

With the NBA season just a couple of months away, players are at varying stages of readiness. While some are working hard to get back into game shape, others are still on vacation. For Lauri Markkanen, it seems he’s experiencing the best of both worlds. Recent reports indicate that the Utah Jazz have sent a team of coaches to work with Markkanen in his home country, suggesting they are serious about keeping him. This move casts doubt on the rumors linking him to the Golden State Warriors and implies that Markkanen is likely to remain in Utah, barring an offer that meets Jazz CEO Danny Ainge’s asking price. For the Warriors, this situation might prompt them to reassess their strategy and look for a player who fits their playstyle without parting with key assets, especially with Klay Thompson out.

Pistons, Jazz Only Teams That Can Make Cavaliers’ Isaac Okoro ‘Meaningful Offer’

02/08/2024 Raymond 0

NBA analyst Andy Bailey of Bleacher Report highlights that the Detroit Pistons and Utah Jazz are uniquely positioned to make substantial offers to Cleveland Cavaliers wing Isaac Okoro, who is a restricted free agent. Despite a promising season where he shot 39.1 percent from three-point range and demonstrated strong defensive skills, Okoro remains unsigned over a month into the offseason. The Cavaliers, who drafted him fifth overall in the 2020 NBA Draft, have made several offers deemed fair by the organization, yet Okoro has not committed to any. This leaves his future with Cleveland uncertain, with only the Pistons and Jazz having the cap space to potentially secure his talents.

Warriors GM Offers 4-Word Stance on Klay Thompson’s Free Agency

25/06/2024 Raymond 0

The future of Klay Thompson as a free agent is a looming question for the Golden State Warriors. General manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. expressed the team’s desire to retain Thompson, stating, “We want him back.” Despite this, negotiations between Thompson and the Warriors have stalled, with no discussions or offers currently on the table. Thompson, a five-time All-Star, has averaged 17.9 points per game last season but is considering his options, with teams like the Orlando Magic and Philadelphia 76ers showing interest. Signs suggest Thompson might be looking for a new start, as he has removed references to the Warriors from his social media and there have been hints of negotiation difficulties. Mike Dunleavy acknowledged the challenge of balancing business and personal relationships, emphasizing the need to find a role and financial arrangement that benefits both the franchise and Thompson.