The Knicks bolstered their depth this off-season with Guerschon Yabusele, Jordan Clarkson and Malcolm Brogdon, setting a clear window to challenge in the East. Yet Mario Chalmers challenges that outlook, saying New York still lacks a dominant big who can anchor both ends and change the ceiling. Karl-Anthony Towns has grown into a more well-rounded defender for the Knicks, but the gap at the rim remains a talking point. Indiana, Boston and others shuffled, but the Cavaliers and Knicks are positioned as frontrunners in a crowded conference as a new era under a fresh Knicks identity begins shaping itself with Mike Brown at the helm.

Landry Shamet returns to New York on a minimum-salary pact, slotting in as a seasoned 3-and-D wing for a Knicks squad aiming for a title. The deal completes a lean, versatile rotation built to maximize two-way depth with the starting core of Brunson and Towns anchoring the attack.

Around that core, Bridges, Anunoby and Hart form a formidable wing trio, while Robinson provides rim protection and McBride, Clarkson, Yabusele and Hukporti round out the second unit with shooting, defense and upside. The Knicks maintain roster flexibility to chase another veteran via trade if needed.

The move signals a deliberate, high-floor gambit: add playoff-tested shooting and defense without sacrificing a future roster path, keeping development options open for Dadiet, Kolek and Hukporti as growth pieces behind the depth chart.

Luka Dončić delivered a triple-double (26 points, 10 rebounds, 11 assists) as Slovenia beat Belgium 86-69 in EuroBasket play, marking the fourth such feat in the tournament’s history. The performance came as Slovenia needed a win to stay alive after two early losses, and Dončić continued to pace the team with elite per-game numbers through three games (about 33 PPG, 7.3 RPG, 9.7 APG, 3.3 SPG). The moment also underscored his status as a Lakers cornerstone after signing a three-year, $155 million extension, despite a knee scare and summer conditioning focus that included gluten-free dieting. Lakers execs showed public support by watching him in Europe, signaling confidence in his health and development as LeBron James’ future remains uncertain. Slovenia now eyes Iceland as it tries to climb out of the group.

The spotlight on Dončić contrasts with France’s depth, which features four NBA players on the roster (Risacher, Sarr, Coulibaly, Yabusele). The dynamic shapes early-season fantasy narratives: Dončić remains the clear fantasy centerpiece, while France’ cadre provides additional DFS intrigue. The mix of EuroBasket structure, international travel, and the Lakers’ long-term commitment makes this a pivotal stretch for Dončić’s fantasy and real-world value as the season approaches.

France closed its Eurobasket prep with a 92-77 win over Greece in Athens, deploying a mix of NBA-connected talent and seasoned scorers to pace the attack. Maledon led France with 16 while Guerschon Yabusele sparked the opener by drilling three straight threes. Risacher and Coulibaly provided timely spacing and playmaking as France stayed within reach late, with Alex Sarr delivering multiple tough finishes at the rim. Greece relied on Giannis to carry the scoring load, but France seized control in the third and never looked back.