The New York Knicks are embarking on a new chapter with Mike Brown at the helm, following Tom Thibodeau's departure. With high expectations following their first Eastern Conference Finals appearance in 25 years, Brown inherits a talented roster featuring stars like Jalen Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns, and a formidable wing duo in OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges. Despite their recent success, the Knicks face crucial challenges, particularly their playoff shortcomings, marked by defensive lapses and offensive predictability.

Brown's experience as a two-time NBA Coach of the Year equips him to address these issues. His strategy may include reducing Brunson's ball-dominance to enhance team movement and incorporating younger players like Pacome Dadiet and Tyler Kolek to boost depth. Accountability on defense will also be paramount, particularly for stars like Towns and Brunson. Brown's approach, which favors strategic matchups over loyalty, could transform the Knicks into genuine championship contenders.

The Utah Jazz endured a historically challenging season, finishing with a record of 17-65, the worst in franchise history and marking their third consecutive year absent from the playoffs. Despite the tumultuous season, the Jazz's legacy includes 14 playoff appearances in the last 25 years, largely thanks to standout players from the past.

RotoWire highlights the top five players from the Jazz’s quarter-century, beginning with Deron Williams (2005-2011), who averaged 17.3 points and 9.1 assists, ranking fourth all-time in assists for the franchise. Donovan Mitchell (2017-2022) followed, known for his scoring prowess, averaging 23.9 points per game and making three All-Star teams. Andrei Kirilenko (2001-2011) was recognized as a versatile defender, contributing across multiple statistical categories. Carlos Boozer (2004-2010) emerged as a dominant force, particularly in the playoffs, averaging 20.3 points per game. Lastly, Rudy Gobert (2013-2022) leaves a remarkable legacy as a three-time Defensive Player of the Year, featuring prominently in the franchise's historical records.

The Minnesota Timberwolves have had a turbulent journey over the past 25 years, making the playoffs just three times while also enduring a 13-year drought. Recently, the franchise has seen a resurgence, with star players contributing significantly to their success. The best starting lineup since 2000 has been identified, showcasing the evolution of the franchise through various ups and downs.

Key players include Ricky Rubio, a remarkable playmaker whose impact is felt beyond his scoring; Anthony Edwards, the emerging star leading the team's resurgence; Andrew Wiggins, who won Rookie of the Year but left fans wanting more; and Kevin Garnett, a franchise icon whose production on both ends of the floor set a high standard. Karl-Anthony Towns has had a complicated legacy, achieving individual accolades but leaving behind a sense of unfinished business.

The NBA Summer League kicks off with the California Classic and Salt Lake City Summer League, serving as prelude to the main event in Las Vegas. Illinois fans should be particularly invested as the Miami Heat and Golden State Warriors participate. Former Illini players Kasparas Jakucionis and Dain Dainja will share the court for Miami, while Coleman Hawkins represents Golden State alongside other notable players from various colleges.

Jakucionis, selected 20th overall in the 2025 NBA Draft, looks to make an impact after his time at Illinois. Dainja lands in Miami after going undrafted, while other Big Ten players like Kel'el Ware and Oumar Ballo join the Heat as they compete through July 8. The matchups also include former Illini and Maryland star Donta Scott, making these games an essential watch for fans.

Luka Doncic has made waves as he prepares for EuroBasket competition, joining the Slovenian national team with two notable new faces. After a challenging 2024-25 NBA season, where he battled a calf injury limiting him to 50 games, Doncic averaged an impressive 28.2 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.5 assists. Following his midseason trade to the Los Angeles Lakers, he demonstrated stellar performance, and now he looks to sustain this momentum while representing Slovenia.

Additionally, former Dallas Mavericks GM Donnie Nelson, who orchestrated Doncic's draft rights acquisition, will serve as a special advisor for the Slovenians. Greg St. Jean, an assistant coach with the Lakers, will also join the national team, providing continuity in Doncic's support as he explores contract negotiations with the Lakers this offseason. The expectation is high for Doncic to secure a lucrative four-year contract extension, emphasizing the significance of his upcoming performance in EuroBasket.