Dunc'd On: MIA @ CHI, DAL @ SAC; 8-Seed Game Preview; Suns Quagmire; LAC/DEN Outlook

The Knicks have received permission to interview Minnesota assistant coach Pablo Prigioni for a position on Mike Brown’s staff, with Prigioni, a former Knick, currently focusing on the Timberwolves' offense. The Knicks aim to add at least one assistant coach while retaining several members of Tom Thibodeau’s staff, and other candidates like Jay Triano and Terry Stotts are expected to stay with their current teams. Need More Context? 🔎

The Washington Wizards waived Marcus Smart and Blake Wesley, saving about $8.2 million, with Smart joining the Los Angeles Lakers and Wesley signing a guaranteed one-year contract with the Portland Trail Blazers. A former Notre Dame star drafted by the Spurs, Wesley, 22, struggled in San Antonio but offers potential as a solid defender and has shown promise in the G League, adding depth to Portland's guard rotation. Need More Context? 🔎

The 2025-26 NBA season is approaching as teams finalize their rosters post-draft and free agency. Key rookies like Cooper Flagg for the Mavericks and Dylan Harper for the Spurs will play pivotal roles, while the Nets hope for immediate contributions from their new draft picks, and the Jazz are focused on developing Ace Bailey amidst a rebuilding phase. Need More Context? 🔎