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.

Tobias Harris has experienced a rejuvenating season since returning to the Detroit Pistons, emerging as a key player on a youthful roster. No longer in the high-pressure environment of the Philadelphia 76ers, Harris is contributing significantly, boasting an impressive +233 plus/minus in 24 games since January 1st, ranking him among elite company alongside Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Nikola Jokic.

With an average of 14 points, six rebounds, and two assists per game, Harris's contributions are often understated, yet they have been pivotal for the Pistons as they navigate the 2024-2025 NBA season. In a recent performance against the San Antonio Spurs, he scored 22 points, leading to a game-high +32 plus/minus, showcasing his impact on both ends of the floor.

Darius Garland delivered a game-winning buzzer-beater from the Detroit Pistons' logo, securing a thrilling 118-115 victory for the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Cavaliers faced a fierce challenge as Cade Cunningham tied the game with three free throws in the final moments. However, with just seconds left, Garland's stunning shot left the crowd in awe, marking his pivotal role in the Cavaliers' successful season, now at 41-10.

In the fierce matchup, Garland's 25 points complemented Evan Mobley's impressive 30-point performance. Meanwhile, Cunningham shone for Detroit with 38 points, but the Pistons endured their second consecutive heart-wrenching loss due to a last-second bucket.

Dallas Mavericks center Dereck Lively II has been named to the Rising Stars tournament pool for the second straight season, set to take place on February 14 during NBA All-Star Weekend in San Francisco. Although he participated last year, Lively will not take part this season due to a right ankle stress fracture that will sideline him for at least a month.

This season, Lively has averaged 9.1 points and 7.8 rebounds while shooting an impressive 70.1%. He has already missed 15 games due to injury, adding to the 27 games he missed in his rookie season. The Mavericks' success this season has been closely tied to his availability, recording a 19-13 record when he plays.

Drafted 12th overall in 2023, Lively was acquired by the Mavericks from Oklahoma City, trading away Cason Wallace and Davis Bertans. The Rising Stars tournament format was revamped in 2022 to include top G League players alongside NBA's best rookies and sophomores. Lively joins the ranks of Mavericks greats who have previously participated in the event, including Luka Doncic, Dirk Nowitzki, and Dennis Smith Jr.