Mavericks media day buzz
At Dallas’ Sept. 25 media day, rookie Cooper Flagg and Kyrie Irving were front and center as new coach Dusty May previewed the season. Flagg discussed offseason growth and playing with Irving; team president Masai Ujiri called Flagg “generational talent.” The event set the tone heading into training camp.
Source: NBA.com
Grizzlies waive D’Angelo Russell
Memphis announced on Sept. 25 that it waived guard D’Angelo Russell as training camp approaches. The move was made amid a roster crunch — the Grizzlies entered camp evaluations with more players on standard contracts than opening-night spots — and clears room as they finalize camp rosters.
Source: NBC Sports
Brunson fully cleared
Jalen Brunson said on Sept. 25 he is fully cleared for training camp after offseason wrist surgery. Brunson — last season’s Finals MVP — confirmed the recovery on his show and is expected to enter camp ready to resume his role as New York’s primary playmaker and leader.
Source: NBC Sports
Cavs’ starting five question
Cleveland coach Kenny Atkinson said on Sept. 25 that the Cavaliers’ starting lineup “is not set,” leaving room for competition after offseason moves such as acquiring Peyton Watson. Atkinson emphasized evaluating the roster during training camp before committing to an opening five.
Source: Sports Illustrated
Celtics weigh camp invites
Boston faces roster choices ahead of training camp after signing five players to Exhibit 10 deals — Milos Uzan, Tucker DeVries, Gabe McGlothan, Hayden Gray and Devin Carter. The additions give the Celtics camp depth as they sort remaining two-way and final roster spots in workouts next week.
Source: Yahoo Sports
Pacers bring back James Johnson
Indiana signed veteran James Johnson to an Exhibit-9 training-camp deal on Sept. 25. The Pacers’ front office said Johnson’s veteran leadership, physicality and locker-room impact motivated the move; he will join camp hoping to earn a role and to mentor younger players during preparations.
Source: Yahoo Sports
Raptors add camp guards
Toronto signed guards Tyreke Key and Nimari Burnett to Exhibit-10 training-camp deals on Sept. 25. The moves provide backcourt depth and reflect roster and apron considerations while giving both players a path to compete for an NBA spot or a two-way/G League assignment.
Source: Yahoo Sports
Pistons sign Romeo Weems
Detroit announced on Sept. 25 that Romeo Weems signed an Exhibit-10 deal after the Motor City Cruise acquired his returning rights in a multi-player trade. Weems will join Pistons training camp with the chance to compete for minutes or to be assigned to the franchise’s G League affiliate.
Source: Yahoo Sports