Latest news with #centers
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
NBA Teams Set High Prices For Their Centers When The Lakers Called For Trades
NBA Teams Set High Prices For Their Centers When The Lakers Called For Trades originally appeared on Fadeaway World. The Los Angeles Lakers needed a starting-caliber center entering this offseason, and they got one in Deandre Ayton. Before Ayton became available, though, the Lakers were seemingly facing a bit of a problem, as NBA insider Brian Windhorst reported that teams with centers to trade had driven up the asking price. "Teams who had centers available were keeping their price for the Lakers high when they called, sources said, after they had established what they were willing to pay for Mark Williams (in February's rescinded trade)." The Lakers were sending Dalton Knecht, Cam Reddish, a 2031 first-round draft pick, and a 2030 pick swap to the Charlotte Hornets for Mark Williams. They would later rescind that trade due to concerns regarding Williams' health. With teams knowing the Lakers were willing to give up that kind of package for Williams at the deadline, it's not surprising that the asking price was high. They also knew they were dealing with a team that was desperate to get a quality center next to Luka Doncic. It was reported that some of the notable centers the Lakers were looking to trade for were Nic Claxton, Walker Kessler, and Robert Williams III. Claxton was being touted as a realistic target, but it's possible the Brooklyn Nets were one of the teams that Windhorst was referring to. As for Kessler, well, the Utah Jazz's asking price had proven to be too high for the Lakers for quite some time now. The Jazz reportedly would have wanted a package that included two first-round picks and Knecht for Kessler back in January. Keep in mind, this was before the Lakers were desperate to get a big, when they had Anthony Davis. The price might have even gone up further after Davis was traded for Doncic. When it comes to Williams, though, you'd think even the Lakers' desperation couldn't have driven up the price too much. He has played just 26 games in the last two seasons for the Portland Trail Blazers due to injury and should have been attainable without giving up assets of great value. Perhaps it was those health concerns that dissuaded the Lakers from making a move, not the asking price. In the end, the Lakers got their starter and backup for the center spot without having to give up any assets. Ayton was signed to a two-year, $16.6 million deal after the Trail Blazers bought out the last year of his contract, while Jaxson Hayes returned on a one-year deal worth $3.4 million. It's not a great rotation, but it isn't terrible either. The Lakers were forced to start Hayes last season after rescinding the Williams trade. While he fared fairly well during the regular season, it was crystal clear that head coach JJ Redick didn't trust him in the playoffs. Hayes averaged just 7.8 minutes per game in the first-round series against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Redick all but removed him from the rotation, and the Lakers needed an upgrade. Despite all his flaws, Ayton is a significant upgrade over Hayes. He averaged 14.4 points, 10.2 rebounds, 1.6 assists, 0.8 steals, and 1.0 blocks per game for the Trail Blazers in 2024-25. Lakers' President of Basketball Operations and General Manager Rob Pelinka believes Ayton is an ideal player to add to their core. There is very little risk involved here due to the nature of the contract, so even if things don't work out, this won't go down as a disastrous story was originally reported by Fadeaway World on Jul 8, 2025, where it first appeared.
Time of India
21-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
One Piece episode 1137 release date and time: What to expect after the anime break
One Piece episode 1137 release date and time: Following a brief break, One Piece is set to return with its highly awaited episode 1137. The Egghead Island arc continues to build intensity, and fans are excited to see what comes next particularly after the touching revelations about Kuma's past. With major action and key twists on the horizon, the episode is shaping up to be another gripping installment in the iconic anime saga. Images from the One Piece Episode 1137 Preview!! One Piece episode 1136 recap One Piece episode 1136, titled Kuma's Life,centers on Bonney's journey as she leaves Sorbet to search for her father, hoping that fame and eventually becoming a Supernova would help her reunite with Kuma and uncover the truth about Nika. The episode offers a deep dive into Kuma's perspective, showing how he had been watching over Luffy since his early days and believed Luffy carried the will of Nika. As the Paramount War loomed, Vegapunk was reluctantly ordered to erase Kuma's free will, despite his repeated appeals to Saturn. However, he secretly programmed Kuma to guard the Thousand Sunny until the Straw Hats returned. In his final moments, Kuma reflected on his past, referred to himself as a hero, and asked Vegapunk to wish Bonney a happy 10th birthday. The episode concludes with Bonney in tears after witnessing his memories. One Piece episode 1137 release date and time The series is set to return with Episode 1137, titled 'I'm Sorry, Dad, Bonney's Tears and Kuma's Fist,' on Sunday, July 27, 2025, at 8:45 AM PT / 11:45 AM ET. According to the official release schedule, viewers in the United States (PT) can catch the episode at 8:45 AM on the same day. One Piece episode 1137 release date and time as per different time zones Pacific Daylight Time (PDT): 7:15 am, Sunday, July 27, 2025 Eastern Daylight Time (EDT): 10:15 am, Sunday, July 27, 2025 British Summer Time (BST): 3:15 pm, Sunday, July 27, 2025 Central European Summer Time (CEST): 4:15 pm, Sunday, July 27, 2025 Indian Standard Time (IST): 7:45 pm, Sunday, July 27, 2025 Philippine Standard Time (PST): 10:15 pm, Sunday, July 27, 2025 Japanese Standard Time (JST): 11:15 pm, Sunday, July 27, 2025 Australia Central Standard Time (ACST): 11:45 pm, Sunday, July 27, 2025 What will One Piece episode 1137 be about? With Kuma's heartbreaking past finally unveiled, One Piece episode 1137 shifts focus back to the present-day events of the Egghead Island arc, which now reaches a boiling point. Bonney finds herself in grave danger after being captured by Saint Saturn, who has assumed a monstrous demon form. His presence marks a serious threat to Bonney and everyone still caught in the chaos on Egghead. Episode 1137 promises pulse-pounding action, emotional stakes, and major twists that could dramatically alter the direction of the arc and the destinies of its central characters. As the conflict intensifies, pressure mounts from all sides. Vegapunk's secrets, the shadow of the World Government, and the inevitable confrontation with overwhelming forces all come to a head in this episode. One Piece episode 1137 preview and what fans have to say One Piece episode 1137 preview was released a few days ago and just like every time, it got anime fans excited and how. One wrote, 'We might see the greatest, most satisfying punch in OP history!.' Another added, 'I'm getting chills by seeing the Kuma animation popping off.' Are you ready for the next episode? We are so not!
Yahoo
03-07-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Lakers Target Three Centers As They Seemingly Move On From Deandre Ayton Interest
Lakers Target Three Centers As They Seemingly Move On From Deandre Ayton Interest originally appeared on Fadeaway World. The Lakers are desperately looking to add size to their roster after making their intentions clear on building around Luka Doncic for their future and saving cap space for 2027. After Deandre Ayton agreed to a contract buyout with the Blazers, he was widely expected to be on top of the Lakers' target list. They also lost their initial two targets in free agency: Brook Lopez to the Clippers and Clint Capela to the Rockets. Advertisement But according to sources, the Lakers are targeting three other centers instead of looking at Ayton as a solution to their problems. Summarized by ClutchPoints, the Lakers are looking at Nick Richards (Phoenix Suns), Yves Missi (New Orleans Pelicans), and Robert Williams (Portland Trail Blazers) as potential options to fill the starting center role. One thing in common among all three players is that they are on expiring contracts with their teams. Therefore, the Lakers will not have to give up a lot in a potential trade for either of these players, as even the Lakers have multiple expiring contracts on the team: Gabe Vincent, Rui Hachimura, and Maxi Kleber. Therefore, if they cannot come to an agreement with any free agent in the market, then they will likely look to trade for any of these three players. It seems like the rational choice for the Lakers if they cannot find a suitable free agent, to then look for alternative options in the trade market. Nick Richards is expected to earn $5 million in the 2025-26 season, while Missi and Williams are expected to earn $3.3 million and $13.28 million, respectively. Williams will be the best fit for a starting-caliber center on this Lakers roster. Across seven seasons in the NBA, he averaged 7.2 points and 6.9 rebounds while shooting 72.3% from the field. Advertisement But he will likely be the hardest to get in a trade, as the Blazers already gave up a lot of size by letting Ayton go this summer. While they do have two young bigs in Donovan Clingan and Yang Hansen, Williams provides the veteran experience that they need to help these young bigs excel. In my opinion, the most favorable option for the Lakers if they cannot come to terms with Ayton would be Yves Missi. The Pelicans center averaged 9.1 points and 8.2 rebounds in his rookie season while shooting 54.7% from the field (mostly close finishes). At 6'11, he is a perfect lob threat to go alongside Luka Doncic in the rebuild for the Lakers. He is in the second year of a team-friendly contract that has two years of team options. In essence, he could be in the final year of his contract if the Pelicans do not decide to pick up his team option. Missi was the 21st pick in the 2024 draft, but his future with the Pelicans is uncertain following the arrival of Derik Queen in this season's draft. Related: Lakers Trade Target Deandre Ayton Reportedly Threw Tantrums In Locker Room, Which Led To $25.5 Million Buyout This story was originally reported by Fadeaway World on Jul 2, 2025, where it first appeared.
Yahoo
03-07-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Lakers Are Expected To Show Interest In Three Centers
Lakers Are Expected To Show Interest In Three Centers originally appeared on Fadeaway World. As the Los Angeles Lakers dive into a pivotal offseason, bolstering the frontcourt has become one of their top priorities. According to Dan Woike, the Lakers are showing strong interest in three centers: Brook Lopez, Clint Capela, and Deandre Ayton, each presenting a different age profile, skillset, and ceiling. Advertisement With Dorian Finney-Smith expected to leave in free agency and sign a multi-year deal with the Houston Rockets, the Lakers are shifting their offseason focus to the center position and doing so aggressively. The Lakers are armed with a $14.1 million mid-level exception and minimal trade assets, so they are walking a delicate balance of staying competitive now without compromising their long-term flexibility. Following LeBron James' decision to opt into the final year of his contract, Los Angeles is motivated to improve the roster and contend this season, all while staying financially nimble enough to make a major swing for a solid team in 2026. Of the three targets, Brook Lopez brings the most veteran leadership and spacing ability. At 37 years old, he averaged 13.0 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks per game while shooting 50.9% from the field and 37.3% from beyond the arc. Advertisement Despite his age, Lopez remains one of the best stretch bigs in the NBA and a reliable rim protector. However, he is not expected to return to Milwaukee, and multiple contenders, including the Lakers should be in play for his services. If the Lakers can land him on a veteran minimum or partial MLE deal, it would be a major value move, but that's a big if. Clint Capela, 31, has also emerged as a potential addition. Once an athletic force in Houston, Capela has since become a steady, if less explosive, presence in Atlanta. He averaged 8.9 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 1.0 blocks last season while shooting 55.9% from the field. The Hawks are expected to part ways with Capela as they reshape their roster around younger talent, and his trade value has declined. For the Lakers, he presents a traditional rebounding-and-defense anchor, though he offers little spacing and has limited offensive versatility. Then there's the wildcard: Deandre Ayton. Recently bought out by the Portland Trail Blazers, Ayton is only 26 years old and averaged 14.4 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 1.0 blocks per game on 56.6% shooting. On paper, Ayton offers the best long-term upside, especially as a potential frontcourt partner for Luka Doncic moving forward. Advertisement Yet, concerns about his motor, effort, and consistency persist. Multiple analysts have questioned his fit in high-stakes environments, especially on a team where expectations and scrutiny are sky-high. NBA insider Ric Bucher noted that the Lakers were reportedly meeting with both Lopez and Capela early in free agency, while also keeping tabs on Ayton. "Lakers fans: your team supposedly is meeting w/Brook Lopez & Clint Capela today but also have interest in DeAndre Ayton. Who do you want to see in purple&gold?" Ideally, Los Angeles would love to secure two out of the three, perhaps using the full MLE on Ayton and hoping to land Lopez on a discount. But given Lopez's value and Ayton's youth, that scenario might be unrealistic. Advertisement Still, the Lakers are determined to shore up their center position, particularly after losing Dorian Finney-Smith. Whether it's a seasoned shot blocker, a lob-finisher, or a potential reclamation project, the Lakers know their window with LeBron is closing and the clock is ticking. Related: Bold Trade Idea Brings A Center And Wing To Lakers; Win-Win Scenario For Rob Pelinka This story was originally reported by Fadeaway World on Jun 30, 2025, where it first appeared.
Yahoo
26-06-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Top NBA free-agent centers: Would Myles Turner really leave an NBA Finalist?
The NBA's runners-up have some business to tend to in a surprisingly deep — for this year's class — positional group. Let's break down the potential top available centers in this year's free-agent market, with the negotiating window opening at 6 p.m. ET June 30. Advertisement (Note: Positions are being determined off Basketball-Reference's positional breakdowns, meaning a player will be listed at the position in which he played the most minutes.) Free-agent position rankings: Point guards | Shooting guards | Small forwards | Power forwards 1. Myles Turner, Indiana Pacers Status: Unrestricted free agent Rule of thumb: When you've been historically underpaid, you're the starting center for a Finals team, you're one of the best defenders in the league, and you're in your prime, you're in line for a raise. Turner, one of the league's most potent 3&D centers, has undergone an offensive transformation over the past few years, to the point where the Pacers cannot lose him. Advertisement What makes sense: With not a lot of money on the market, and the fact that both sides seem motivated to continue their partnership, expect Turner and Indiana to find common ground on a new deal that looks significantly richer than the ones before. 2. Naz Reid, Minnesota Timberwolves Status: Player option Value of option: $15,022,464 There's no question some teams will view Reid as a starting center, especially given his touch from the outside. Yet, the Wolves have used him in a backup capacity throughout his career, which makes you wonder if Reid himself is open to chasing a starting role. Reid is ingrained in the local community and seems to genuinely treasure being a Timberwolf. Of course, that doesn't mean he'll just sign whatever is in front of him, but it does seem likely he could be willing to sacrifice something to stick around. Advertisement What makes sense: The best path forward could be to wait until next summer by picking up his option and hope more teams have money to spend. That also gives him another year of data to determine whether he indeed wants to be a career backup. 3. Brook Lopez, Milwaukee Bucks Status: Unrestricted free agent Lopez might be 37. He might be slow. He might be declining. But the man is still a physical behemoth who will clog the paint, block shots and drain a ton of 3-pointers. Those are valuable marks in today's NBA, even if Lopez doesn't necessarily fit into the 'switch everything' ideology. As such, there should be a market for a team, especially among good teams looking for someone reliable who has championship experience. Advertisement What makes sense: Staying with the Bucks another year isn't a bad play, but if Lopez is looking for another title run, he'll have to look outside of the organization and identify a team that's closer. 4. Clint Capela, Atlanta Hawks Status: Unrestricted free agent Capela is getting older and less dynamic, but he's still a tough rebounder who challenges shots at the rim and remains a solid lob threat. While his compensation level will diminish due to his age and a starting role no longer being a sure thing, plenty of teams should give him a look. What makes sense: The Los Angeles Lakers will unquestionably have internal meetings about Capela, considering his theoretical fit with Luka Dončić. Should that be the path Capela chooses, there's a world where he once again will produce impressive box scores. 5. Moritz Wagner, Orlando Magic Status: Team option Value of option: $11,000,000 Advertisement Wagner tore his ACL in December, so we should see teams offer him deals that greatly benefit them in terms of flexibility. If we assume he returns to full health, Wagner immediately becomes one of the best backup scoring big men in the league, with the capability of stretching the floor and providing necessary spacing. What makes sense: Despite the injury and the fact that he could be an unrestricted free agent next summer, the Magic should try to keep him long term. Perhaps Wagner is inclined to agree to a longer deal worth less money than he's earning now in the hope that he can bounce back after his injury. 6. Guerschon Yabusele, Philadelphia 76ers Status: Unrestricted free agent Advertisement Using last year's Olympics as a display window, Yabusele made the most of his NBA return, becoming a key offensive contributor for the Sixers. The 29-year-old, affectionately known as The Dancing Bear, is at a stage in his career when optimizing his own salary and role should be his top priority. What makes sense: Yabusele should hear out the Sixers but absolutely seek the biggest payday possible, regardless of team, since he's closing in on 30. For a guy like him, who can occasionally play recklessly, securing his own future is the goal. Best of the rest Jaylin Williams, Oklahoma City Thunder Status: Team option Value of option: $2,187,699 Advertisement Williams, who was drafted in the second round in 2022, is in an interesting situation. If the Thunder pick up his option, he'll enter 2026 as an unrestricted free agent. If they don't, he'll become a restricted free agent this summer. Williams is a solid talent, even if he isn't playing a ton of minutes. The 6-foot-9 big man has multiple double-doubles to his name, which underlines the vastness of his skill set. Plenty of teams should have an eye on him. Andre Drummond, Philadelphia 76ers Status: Player option Value of option: $5,000,000 One of the greatest rebounders of his generation can dictate his own future, but the market for him hasn't been strong these past few years. If he sticks in Philadelphia, it's likely he'll get a ton of minutes should Joel Embiid not be available.
