Atlantic Division Roundup: Nets weigh Porter extension, Powell heats up, Sixers plan Simons role, Maxey’s next step, Sellers eyes Knicks spot
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Brooklyn — Nets general manager Sean Marks said the organization will take its time before deciding whether to offer Michael Porter Jr. a contract extension. “We’ve got time. There’s no immediate hurry,” Marks told reporters, emphasizing that the 28-year-old forward “had a terrific year” and is highly valued by the club.
Porter posted career highs of 24.2 points, 7.1 rebounds and 3.0 assists in his first season with Brooklyn, but appeared in only 52 games because of injuries and the team’s late-season draft positioning strategy. Around the league, some observers wonder if Porter’s timeline aligns with a Nets roster that has selected seven first-round picks over the past two drafts.
Powell finds his touch in Las Vegas
First-rounder Drake Powell entered Tuesday’s Summer League game with just 11 points on 1-for-28 shooting—0-for-14 from three—across four outings. The 20-year-old guard responded by scoring 18 points on six attempts, knocking down 4-of-7 triples in a 32-point rout of the Kings.
Sixers add scoring punch, focus on Maxey’s growth
Following the blockbuster deal for Jaylen Brown, Philadelphia shored up its bench by acquiring Anfernee Simons. Head coach Nick Nurse told The Athletic he is eager to integrate the prolific shooter, noting Simons “can really score” both off the catch and the dribble. Nurse envisions Simons sharing second-unit duties with rookie Labaron Philon.
Nurse also called 2026-27 “a crucial season” for Tyrese Maxey, who must balance playmaking with scoring alongside Brown and Joel Embiid. The coach praised Maxey’s one-on-one ability and defensive strides, urging him to “keep it simple,” lead, and maintain his trademark energy.
Sellers pushes for Knicks roster spot
Undrafted guard Oziyah Sellers is using Summer League to convince New York he belongs. “Every opportunity I get, I try to make the most of it,” the former St. John’s standout said. Through three games, Sellers is averaging 5.0 points and 2.7 rebounds in 14.7 minutes, though he has yet to convert a three-pointer after topping 40% from deep in two of his last three collegiate seasons.
Source: HoopsRumors
