NEW YORK — Jalen Brunson is one victory away from ending the Knicks’ 53-year title drought, a feat that could vault him into franchise lore. Club icon Walt “Clyde” Frazier said the guard would join the team’s “Mount Rushmore” if he delivers the championship, but added that Brunson still has more to accomplish before entering the “Greatest Knick” debate that has long featured Willis Reed, Patrick Ewing and Frazier himself.
Frazier, who owns two rings from the 1970s and now works courtside as an MSG Network analyst, described the lifelong perks that come with winning in New York. He noted that decades after his playing career ended, fans still celebrate him on city streets and often refuse to let him pay for anything. He tells current Knicks that a single title could earn them similar adulation “for the next 50 years.”
Celtics eye balance after 56-win season
BOSTON — The Celtics reached the Eastern Conference semifinals despite missing Jayson Tatum for extended stretches, but president of basketball operations Brad Stevens believes the offense grew too dependent on three-pointers. During his end-of-season news conference this spring, Stevens said Boston struggled to create high-quality first looks in both rounds of the playoffs and needs a stronger presence at the rim. He indicated that roster additions aimed at attacking the paint are on the summer to-do list.
According to NBC Sports Boston, the front office does not anticipate sweeping changes but will consider adjustments on the margins. Internal development for Hugo Gonzalez, Baylor Scheierman, Jordan Walsh and Ron Harper Jr. is a priority, while former Celtic Robert Williams III could be a free-agent target. Trade options mentioned include Orlando’s Wendell Carter Jr. and Detroit’s Isaiah Stewart.
Philadelphia weighs Kelly Oubre Jr.’s next deal
PHILADELPHIA — Kelly Oubre Jr. has appeared in 231 games over three seasons with the 76ers, providing energy and durability on the wing. His outside shooting, however, has fluctuated. Philadelphia would like to see a repeat of his 2025-26 performance, when he converted 36.0 percent of his three-point attempts, if it brings him back.
The Sixers already carry a sizable payroll, prompting questions about what type of contract the 30-year-old will seek. Team observers see a possible middle ground: a longer agreement with a lower average salary. Whether the organization’s new leadership is willing to add multi-year money for another player in his 30s remains uncertain.
The Knicks’ title push, Boston’s search for interior scoring and Philadelphia’s contract calculus with Oubre headline an active offseason across the Atlantic Division.
Source: Hoops Rumors
