Luka Doncic says joining the Los Angeles Lakers has given him a stronger chance to chase championships, the Phoenix Suns have completed a multi-year deal with free-agent forward Haywood Highsmith, and the Denver Nuggets have filled their open two-way slot with guard KJ Simpson.
Doncic on His Move to Los Angeles
Speaking with Slovenia’s SportKlub after a brief All-Star Game appearance, Doncic compared the Mavericks and Lakers organizations. “I think the organization here is better,” he said. “The Lakers are a truly legendary club, and the organization is legendary too.” The Lakers own 17 NBA titles and remain centered on star power.
Dallas reached the 2024 NBA Finals with Doncic but has struggled since his departure and is trending toward another missed postseason. Sources told Grant Afseth of Dallas Hoops Journal that a reunion with the Mavericks is unlikely; members of Doncic’s camp were displeased with internal criticism of his conditioning. Although he stays in touch with some former teammates and staff, he has not spoken recently with coach Jason Kidd.
Suns Finalize Deal With Highsmith
Phoenix officially signed the 29-year-old Highsmith to a multi-year contract, the club announced. Shams Charania of ESPN reported that several playoff contenders, including the Lakers and 76ers, pursued the forward before he chose the Suns.
Highsmith has not played this season following knee surgery and a rehabilitation setback, but his agent says he is fully healthy. Over the past two years with Miami, he averaged 38.8 percent from three-point range while earning a reputation as a versatile defender. John Gambadoro of Arizona Sports noted that the second season of the agreement is not fully guaranteed.
Nuggets Add Simpson on Two-Way Contract
The Nuggets have signed KJ Simpson to a two-way deal, according to Charania. The 2024 second-round pick appeared in 50 games for the Charlotte Hornets, averaging 7.3 points in 21.3 minutes, before being waived earlier this month.
Denver created the opening by promoting Spencer Jones to a standard roster spot. Depending on the finalization date, Simpson can spend up to 16 games with the NBA club this season.
The trio of moves reshapes depth charts for three Western Conference teams as the playoff push continues.
Source: Hoops Wire
