Ewing returns to coaching, Wizards rebuild rolls on
Big move: Patrick Ewing’s back on the sidelines—this time as an assistant for the Wizards under Brian Keefe. After years as a Knicks ambassador, the Georgetown legend reunites with Steve Clifford, who’s also joining D.C. as an advisor. These two go way back: assistants together in Orlando (2007-12), then Clifford coaching Ewing in Charlotte (2013-17). Wizards brass is stacking experience around their young core.
Trade splash: Washington just flipped Jaden Hardy and two 2031/32 second-rounders to the Lakers for Deandre Ayton. That’s a win-now play—Ayton’s a durable center who slots next to Anthony Davis and rookie Alex Sarr. Lakers, meanwhile, pivot to backup options like Drummond or Valanciunas after missing out on Ayton.
Free agency frenzy: Jazz, Knicks, Clippers lock in talent
Jazz strike gold: Utah landed Josh Okogie on a two-year, $12M deal. The guy’s a defensive pest who shot 38.5% from three last season in Houston. Multiple teams wanted him, but the Jazz closed the deal with Klutch Sports’ Calvin Andrews. That’s a low-risk, high-reward signing for a squad rebuilding around Markkanen and Kessler.
Knicks fill the hole: New York replaced Mitchell Robinson with Andre Drummond—one year, $3.9M. Drummond’s a Mount Vernon native who had Lakers interest, but the Knicks won out. He’s not a floor-spacer, but he’ll eat minutes and rebound like crazy. Solid stopgap while they chase bigger fish.
Clippers keep Miller: Jordan Miller re-signed for three years, $15.3M. The 24-year-old guard earned it—10 PPG on 53% shooting, including double digits in 20 of his last 26 games. Clippers brass locked him in early, showing they value continuity around Kawhi and PG.
Bucks grab a flyer: Milwaukee signed second-rounder Kam Jones to a two-way deal. Jones was drafted by Indiana, traded to Chicago, then waived—now he gets a fresh shot in a system that develops guards. Low-cost, high-upside move for a team that needs depth behind Dame and Giannis.