Eastern Conference Roundup: Tsai Hints at Nets’ Draft Focus; Antetokounmpo Set for Preseason Debut; Barlow Impresses Sixers; Plumlee Eyes Role in Charlotte
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Brooklyn, NY — Nets governor Joe Tsai recently told a panel audience that the organization is targeting a strong 2026 draft position, implying a strategic approach for the upcoming season. Asked about the comment on Sunday, first-year head coach Jordi Fernández framed it as confidence in Brooklyn’s scouting staff, saying the club “is going to pick a very good player” regardless of draft slot.
The Nets are integrating five rookies and moved on from last season’s second-leading scorer, Cameron Johnson, in an offseason trade. Despite low external expectations a year ago, Fernández’s squad finished with 26 wins after being projected as the league’s worst team.
Bucks Expect Antetokounmpo on Sunday
Milwaukee, WI — Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo participated in five-on-five drills Saturday and is slated to make his first preseason appearance Sunday against Chicago, head coach Doc Rivers said. The two-time MVP started camp late after a COVID-19 bout kept him out of the initial sessions.
Barlow Making Case in Philadelphia
Philadelphia, PA — Two-way forward Dominick Barlow is strengthening his bid for a standard NBA contract with a solid preseason, according to The Philadelphia Inquirer. Salary-cap considerations could delay the 76ers from filling their 15th roster spot, but Barlow is in line for rotation minutes and may even open the year as the starting power forward until Paul George returns, The Athletic reports.
Philadelphia is also elevating JP Clark to head coach of its G League affiliate, the Delaware Blue Coats. Clark previously served as a Blue Coats assistant and has NBA experience with the Clippers and Celtics.
Plumlee Looks Beyond Mentorship in Charlotte
Charlotte, NC — Veteran center Mason Plumlee, now surrounded by 23-year-olds Moussa Diabaté and Ryan Kalkbrenner in the Hornets’ frontcourt, said he joined Charlotte to contribute on the floor, not solely to mentor. “My understanding is we’re playing to win this year,” Plumlee told The Charlotte Observer. “That was my interest in coming here and I want to contribute to that.”
Source: Hoops Rumors
