Eastern Notes: White Targets All-Star Jump, Hawks Upbeat on Porziņģis, Anthony Energized by Bucks Move
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Coby White believes the Chicago Bulls can exceed outside expectations in 2025-26 and says his own objective is to earn his first All-Star selection. Speaking with Andscape’s Marc J. Spears, the 25-year-old guard noted he has averaged about 20 points in each of the past two seasons and now wants to help the team move beyond the play-in round.
White is entering the final season of his contract at $12.9 million and, according to the Chicago Sun-Times’ Joe Cowley, has informed Chicago he will not sign an extension before free agency in 2026. Cowley argued a trade with Houston could benefit both clubs following Fred VanVleet’s ACL injury, proposing a package built around Reed Sheppard and Tari Eason. White, however, told Spears he is still “very open” to remaining with the Bulls long term.
Hawks Confident in Porziņģis’ Health
Atlanta general manager Onsi Saleh said Friday the organization is “super confident” in Kristaps Porziņģis’ ability to stay healthy after the big man dealt with post-viral syndrome late last season. “We wouldn’t have made the trade if we didn’t think that,” Saleh told reporters, adding that the club expects Porziņģis to “play a bunch of games this season.”
Knicks Offensive Tweaks
The Athletic’s James L. Edwards III detailed head coach Mike Brown’s plans to optimize New York’s star duo of Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns. The strategy includes using Brunson off the ball more frequently and positioning Towns in varied spots on the floor to create mismatches.
Cole Anthony Welcomes Fresh Start in Milwaukee
New Bucks guard Cole Anthony said the move from Orlando “feels like a breath of fresh air” after his minutes dipped with the Magic the past two years. “I just want to come in and help the team win in whichever way I can,” Anthony told The Athletic’s Eric Nehm, adding that Milwaukee’s roster carries “a real professional vibe” and a collective “chip on their shoulder.”
Key Questions for Orlando
Jason Beede of the Orlando Sentinel outlined four issues the Magic must address before opening night, including the recovery timelines for Jalen Suggs and Moritz Wagner, the shape of the bench rotation, and who will claim the team’s vacant two-way slot.
Source: Hoops Rumors
