The Los Angeles Lakers are actively seeking to solidify their center position ahead of the upcoming NBA season. Despite a slow start in free agency, they have shifted their focus to the trade market, exploring several potential options. Reports indicate that the Lakers have engaged in discussions with the Phoenix Suns regarding Nick Richards, and have also shown interest in Yves Missi and Robert Williams III from the New Orleans Pelicans and Portland Trail Blazers, respectively.

In addition, the Orlando Magic are a target for the Lakers, as they inquire about Wendell Carter Jr. and Goga Bitadze. While these players may not be star names, each could provide a significant upgrade to the Lakers' current roster. Missi stands out as a promising choice, being the 21st overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft with impressive rookie statistics, suggesting he has the potential to complement stars like LeBron James and Luka Dončić effectively.

The Golden State Warriors faced a challenging end to the NBA season, narrowly making it into the Play-In Tournament after a strong 23-7 run following the acquisition of Jimmy Butler. Despite defeating the Memphis Grizzlies, their playoff run ended abruptly against the Minnesota Timberwolves after Stephen Curry's hamstring injury. Although the Warriors have been quiet in free agency, rumors suggest they are interested in Damian Lillard after the Milwaukee Bucks waived him. With Lillard recovering from a torn Achilles, his fit with the Warriors remains uncertain, but his history as a Warriors fan adds intrigue to the possibility.

The Los Angeles Lakers are actively searching for solutions to fill their center position, which has become a pressing need following the loss of Dorian Finney-Smith to the Houston Rockets. With limited moves so far in free agency, names like Deandre Ayton and Nick Richards are surfacing as potential trade targets. Ayton's buyout from the Portland Trail Blazers has raised interest, while Nick Richards of the Phoenix Suns is also on the Lakers' radar.

Another promising option is Yves Missi of the New Orleans Pelicans, who had a solid rookie season, averaging 9.1 points and 8.2 rebounds per game. The Lakers are also exploring trades with the Orlando Magic for Wendell Carter Jr. and Goga Bitadze. Robert Williams III of the Trail Blazers, whose price may have dropped following Ayton's departure, has also been discussed. Any of these moves could significantly impact the Lakers' frontcourt depth.

Former Michigan State standout A.J. Hoggard has secured a spot with the New Orleans Pelicans for the upcoming NBA Summer League. After four seasons with the Spartans, where he averaged 8.6 points and 4.6 assists, Hoggard transferred to Vanderbilt, further showcasing his playmaking skills with 9.6 points and 4.6 assists per game. Standing at 6-foot-3, he possesses the size and skill set that could translate well to the professional level, making him a player to watch as he embarks on this new chapter.

Alex Ovechkin, the Washington Capitals superstar, is in the spotlight once again as a finalist for the 2025 Muhammad Ali Sports Humanitarian Award. This recognition comes three months after he shattered the NHL goals record, and it reflects his commitment to philanthropy, particularly through his 'Victory Over Cancer' initiative. Since launching this campaign, Ovechkin has pledged to donate money for every goal he scores, raising over $150,000 for pediatric cancer research. His milestone 895th goal was celebrated with a donation of the same amount, and he emphasizes the importance of using his platform to support those battling cancer. Other nominees for the award include NBA guard CJ McCollum and tennis star Sloane Stephens. The winner will be announced during the ESPY awards on July 15, further illustrating the impactful legacy Ovechkin is building both on and off the ice.