HEADLINE: Demas Named Laketown Squadron Head Coach; Grizzlies Shop No. 16 Pick, Add Curtis; Mavericks Weigh Options at No. 9
SLUG: demas-squadron-grizzlies-draft-mavericks
CONTENT:
Laketown Squadron — the New Orleans Pelicans’ NBA G League affiliate — appointed longtime organization staffer Brandon Demas as head coach, the club announced. Demas, who began with the Pelicans as a team attendant in 2012, has spent the past 14 seasons in various roles, including:
- NBA Pelicans assistant coach (2024-26)
- Two-way coach (2022-24)
- Player development coach/video assistant (2019-22)
- Team attendant (2012-19)
In an interview with NOLA.com, Demas credited guard Jose Alvarado — dealt to the eventual champion Knicks in February — for helping his rise, calling Alvarado “family” and noting both have overcome underdog labels.
Grizzlies exploring draft climb, Aldama available
Memphis is attempting to move up from the No. 16 overall pick, and, per Clutch Points, virtually any veteran outside the club’s young core could be included in a deal. Forward/center Santi Aldama is among those said to be attainable. Aldama, limited to 43 games last season after a March procedure on his right knee, is entering year two of a three-year, $52.5 million contract that carries a team option for 2027-28.
Memphis hires Curtis to oversee player health
The Grizzlies also named Mike Curtis head of player health and performance. Curtis held Memphis’ strength-and-conditioning post from 2002-08 and most recently worked in the same capacity at the University of Virginia.
Mavericks eye wings, bigs at No. 9
Dallas is expected to target the top wing or frontcourt prospect available with the ninth pick, according to DallasHoopsJournal.com. The team anticipates elite guard prospects Keaton Wagler, Mikel Brown and Darius Acuff will be off the board before its selection.
Separately, speculation continues around De’Aaron Fox as a potential trade fit for the Spurs’ crowded backcourt, though a move is not considered mandatory this offseason.
Source: Hoops Rumors
