NBA Player News

Zubac finished one rebound shy of a double-double in the 34-point victory, but he continues to give Nikola Jokic a hard time defensively. While the three-time MVP recorded another triple-double on Thursday, Zubac’s ability to make things difficult for Jokic has allowed the Clippers to avoid gambling too much defensively. Zubac is a finalist for the Most Improved Player award, and for good reason. His performance in this series has shown why that’s the case. Game 4 is on Saturday afternoon.

Jemison appeared in 38 games during the 2024-25 season, with 22 coming as a member of the Lakers. In those 22 outings, the 6-foot-11 center averaged 2.6 points and 2.8 rebounds in 10.3 minutes. The Lakers’ waiving Jemison was necessary, as the team needed to free up a two-way contract slot. Having already agreed to a two-way deal with undrafted rookie Eric Dixon after last month’s draft, the Lakers recently agreed to sign Christian Koloko and Chris Manon to similar deals.

To say the restricted free agency market has been harsh would be an understatement, as there has been little movement for multiple players. That includes Kuminga, the subject of some sign-and-trade rumors at the beginning of free agency. While Phoenix, who has moved on from Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal, is reportedly interested in the athletic forward, getting him would be difficult. In addition to the Warriors having the right to match any offer sheet that Kuminga would sign, the Suns lack the necessary assets, especially draft capital, to make something happen. Phoenix has the cap space following the Durant and Beal exits, but the price paid to land those two stars has left the cupboard bare otherwise.

Robinson, who spent last season with the Raptors and Kings, will get a fresh start back in Florida after spending the first two years of his career with the Heat. Robinson will likely spend most of his time in the G League, and it will be a tall task for him to move up the depth chart with Wendell Carter Jr., Goga Bitadze and Moritz Wagner playing the center minutes.

Koloko will remain with the Lakers for another season, though he likely won’t see the floor often behind Deandre Ayton and Jaxson Hayes. Both Koloko and Manon, who played for the Warriors during summer league, will likely spend most of next season in the G League.

McDermott will return to the Kings for a second straight season after playing 8.1 minutes per game across 42 appearances last year. He will likely be a veteran depth piece once again this upcoming season.

NBA insider Chris Haynes reports the deal will be worth $3.6 million. Paul, who spent six seasons with the Clippers, will return for what will likely be his last in the NBA. The twelve-time All-Star will fill out a limited role as the backup point guard behind James Harden in his 21st season, which will likely prevent him from making a consistent impact in fantasy basketball.

Carter did not shoot the ball well in Sunday’s championship game, but his overall play throughout the summer league may have opened some eyes. Limited last season due to injury, the 2024 first-round pick was effective as a playmaker and defender against the Hornets. With Carter being mentioned in trade rumors earlier this month, he’s someone to keep an eye on as the offseason progresses. Staying in Sacramento could make it difficult for him to impact fantasy basketball next season, especially with the Kings signing Dennis Schröder.

Clifford was among the many Kings who struggled from the perimeter in Sunday’s title game defeat. Sacramento shot 7-of-34 from beyond the arc as a team, with Clifford making one of his four attempts. However, the first-round pick’s versatility was on display throughout the event, and that attribute may get Clifford early rotation minutes. Kings GM Scott Perry said earlier in the summer that they envision Clifford being able to play all three perimeter positions. If the rookie can handle those responsibilities, he’ll have value in deeper fantasy leagues.

Jones had an outstanding summer league, capping his run with a double-double in Sacramento’s five-point defeat. Over his last two games in Las Vegas, the second-year forward shot a combined 23-of-34 from the field, scoring 60 points. Due to Sacramento’s frontcourt rotation, getting the playing time needed to impact fantasy basketball next season will be challenging. However, Jones’ play in Las Vegas was encouraging, and the Kings trading Jonas Valančiūnas to the Nuggets earlier in July does help open up some rotation minutes that Jones could sneak into.

While Simpson didn’t have the best night shooting the basketball, his leadership throughout the summer league contributed to the Hornets’ winning the title. In Charlotte’s first five games, the second-year point guard averaged 5.8 assists and 2.6 turnovers per game. With Simpson again on a two-way contract and a healthy LaMelo Ball running the show, his ceiling will be limited next season. However, there may be moments when Simpson is worth streaming if Ball’s injury struggles continue.