Lakers beat Clippers for fifth straight win behind 31 points from Luka Dončić, but Austin Reaves exits with calf soreness

The Miami Heat explored trading Terry Rozier this offseason, considering a swap with Marcus Smart, but found no clear consensus on whether it would be an upgrade. Rozier, who averaged 10.6 points and 3.7 rebounds last season, is under federal investigation for betting irregularities, though he has not been charged and has been cleared by the NBA of any wrongdoing. Want More Context? 🔎

The New York Knicks are looking to hire Brendan O'Connor, a defensive coach and assistant with the Los Angeles Clippers, as the lead assistant under head coach Mike Brown, according to sources. This comes after the Knicks' recent attempt to recruit Pablo Prigioni, who opted to stay with the Timberwolves, while they may still pursue an offensive-minded assistant. Want More Context? 🔎

The Brooklyn Nets are slow to negotiate a long-term contract with Cam Thomas, offering two-year proposals around $14.1 million annually while Thomas seeks about $30 million per year. If he doesn't accept Brooklyn's offers, he may opt for a $5.99 million qualifying offer, allowing him to become an unrestricted free agent next summer. Want More Context? 🔎