Los Angeles — Mavericks star Luka Doncic is reportedly pleased with the Lakers’ summer overhaul, according to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin. The franchise brought in center Walker Kessler via trade and signed free agents Quentin Grimes, Collin Sexton, Sandro Mamukelashvili and Kevon Looney. Los Angeles also re-signed guard Austin Reaves, giving Doncic another familiar face in the backcourt.
The reshuffle follows several notable exits. LeBron James remains on the open market, Rui Hachimura joined the Clippers, Marcus Smart signed with the Rockets, Luke Kennard headed to the Suns and Deandre Ayton was traded to the Wizards. It is unclear whether the Lakers will make additional moves before training camp.
Celtics
Jayson Tatum publicly addressed Boston’s decision to trade longtime teammate Jaylen Brown for Paul George and draft picks, a move that ended a nine-year partnership.
“To be honest, weird. It’s weird,” Tatum said via CelticsBlog. The pair reached two NBA Finals and captured one championship during their tenure. Tatum acknowledged it will take time to adjust, noting that he expected to spend his career alongside Brown.
Raptors
The Raptors are expected to add Stephen Silas to head coach Darko Rajaković’s staff, Sportsnet’s Michael Grange reported. Silas previously led the Rockets, spent one season with the Pistons and most recently guided Team USA in international competition.
Toronto is also anticipated to part ways with assistants Mike Batiste and James Wade as Rajaković continues to reshape his bench.
Source: Hoops Wire
