ORLANDO
Forward Paolo Banchero said his early work with new Magic head coach Sean Sweeney is already paying off. Speaking with Yahoo Sports this week in Las Vegas, the 21-year-old noted that the pair spent time together in Seattle before Summer League and have “hit it off” quickly. Banchero praised Sweeney’s detail-oriented approach and energy, qualities he believes will help a young roster push deeper into the Eastern Conference race.
Entering his fifth NBA campaign, the former No. 1 pick listed overall improvement and better offensive efficiency among his primary goals for 2024-25.
Timberwolves
Minnesota finalized a four-year contract with second-round draft choice Isaiah Evans, the club announced. League sources told HoopsHype the deal is worth roughly $9.3 million, with guarantees for the first three seasons and a team option in the fourth.
Selected 33rd overall last month, the former Duke guard averaged 15.0 points as a freshman and was regarded as one of the draft’s top perimeter shooters. His signing was delayed until the organization completed a draft-night trade on Friday.
Pelicans
New Orleans quietly granted veteran center DeAndre Jordan a fully guaranteed two-year contract, his first multiyear agreement since 2021, according to Jake Fischer. Jordan, who turns 38 later in July, appeared in 12 games last season but was valued for leadership, mentoring teammates such as rookies Derik Queen and star forward Zion Williamson.
The 19-year veteran was honored as the NBA’s Teammate of the Year last season. The new deal keeps him on track to reach a 20th campaign, a milestone several around the league hope to see.
Source: Hoops Wire
