NBA execs believe Nick Smith Jr is a trade candidate

The Charlotte Hornets secured their first Summer League title by defeating the Sacramento Kings 83-78, with Kon Knueppel, the fourth pick in the 2025 draft, earning MVP honors after scoring 21 points. The Hornets concluded the Summer League with a perfect 6-0 record, while the Kings, led by Isaac Jones with 24 points and 11 rebounds, finished at 5-1. Need More Context? 🔎

Luka Doncic has been instrumental in recruiting Marcus Smart and Deandre Ayton to the Los Angeles Lakers, with Smart signing a two-year deal recently and Ayton agreeing to a similar contract earlier this month. Doncic expressed his needs for a rim-running center and defensive support to GM Rob Pelinka, following a previous attempt to acquire Mark Williams that fell through due to a failed physical. Need More Context? 🔎

The Los Angeles Lakers have waived Shake Milton ahead of his $3 million contract becoming guaranteed, as they needed to create cap space to sign Marcus Smart. Last season, Milton played 57 games between the Brooklyn Nets and Lakers, averaging 5.5 points, 1.8 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game. Need More Context? 🔎