Good morning. We have that and more in Thursday’s NBA newsletter.
The most annoying trade delay in NBA history has ended peacefully. The Cavaliers were trying to pry more assets out of the Celtics' hands after discovering that Isaiah Thomas' hip might be in worse shape than Boston led on. The Celtics didn't really flinch. So eventually, the Cs conceded a future second-round pick to put the deal to bed. The deal is closed.
The situation is the same as it was last week when the teams initially cut a deal, except there's a liiiiiittle more doubt surrounding Isaiah's health going forward. There appears to be a non-zero chance he could still need surgery, in fact!
Zach Lowe explains what Boston loves about this trade. I.T. is adamant that the hip injury won't have a long-term effect on his career. Have the Celtics lost their identity? And hey, what is up with these continued Anthony Davis to Boston rumors?
EuroBasket 2017 is underway. Why is FIBA using second- or third-tier referees? And will it lead to an NBA star getting hurt?
By the way, you can follow the daily EuroBasket comings and goings with us.
Here's a big summary of what athletes and sports teams are doing for Harvey relief. Related: a Houston rapper helped Jonathon Simmons escape flood waters.
Athletes, including Jerry West, share stories about their mental health battles. Excellent story.
This is sweet: as a part of throwback efforts, the Bucks will play a big early national TV game in old Bucks jerseys ... at the MECCA!
Win total over-unders are out. These are always fun. Boston is substantially ahead of Cleveland (56.5 vs. 53.5), which is interesting. I'm a little shocked Philadelphia is up at 42.5 ... but I don't think that's a bet to get involved in either direction. Without close review, I like the looks of the over on Memphis, the under on Sacramento, the under on Charlotte, the over on Chicago, and the over on Houston.
It might be worth taking the over on the Raptors if DeMar DeRozan is actually adding the three to his arsenal.
Top prospect Mitchell Robinson's commitment to, exit from, and return to Western Kentucky, explained.
That Ball family reality show is happening. The trailer indicates that a) LaVar is the star, b) LiAngelo is invisible, and c) the show might not be horrible.
The Blazers extended Neil Olshey's contract through 2021.
Kevin Durant now has a Red Velvet edition of his shoe that was branded in a sea of cupcakes. The whole cupcake thing has spawned sneakers now!
Is Will Barton better than the numbers indicate?
Jalen Rose is doing good.
Rest in peace, Rollie Massimino. Rest in peace, Jud Heathcote.
Kevin Durant says "no one wants to play in Under Armours," which is quite awkward for a teammate of the biggest UA athlete on the planet.