Former Duke basketball players are making waves at the NBA Summer League, showcasing their skills and competing for roster spots. Among them is Cooper Flagg, the 2025 No. 1 overall pick, who signed a lucrative four-year, $62.7 million contract with the Dallas Mavericks. Flagg will be a key player to watch as he takes the court against the Los Angeles Lakers on July 10. Other notable Blue Devils include Kon Knueppel and Sion James, who were selected early in the draft and will play for the Charlotte Hornets.

Knueppel, the No. 4 pick, signed for $45.4 million, while James, a second-round selection, brings a significant skill set to the court. Tyrese Proctor, also a second-round pick, makes his debut with the Cleveland Cavaliers, and Khaman Maluach will represent the Phoenix Suns as their No. 10 pick. Each of these athletes aims to impress as they embark on their professional careers.

DJ Steward, the former Duke player, made an impressive debut with the Los Angeles Lakers during the California Classic, scoring 20 points on 7-for-10 shooting in a closely contested game against the Golden State Warriors. Despite the 89-87 loss, Steward showcased his potential and emphasized the importance of teamwork and physical defense in his post-game remarks. After four seasons in the G League where he averaged 19.1 points, he aims to leverage this summer league contract to solidify his place in the NBA.

Steward's message to his teammates highlighted the need for improvement and a more aggressive approach in following games. As he works to refine his skills under the Lakers' coaching staff, his performance on the court may lead to increased fantasy relevance, especially if he secures a regular spot in the lineup. With a strong showing, he could become a valuable asset in fantasy leagues as the season progresses.

The Los Angeles Lakers kicked off their summer league with a closely contested game against the Golden State Warriors, ultimately falling 89-84. Notably absent from the lineup was Bronny James, a second-year guard and son of superstar LeBron James, surprising many fans as no prior announcement had been made regarding his absence. The Lakers expected to see Bronny contribute in his battle for a roster spot after splitting last season between the Lakers and their G League affiliate.

As Bronny observed from the sidelines, DJ Steward capitalized on the opportunity, netting 20 points with an impressive shooting performance. Despite the disappointment of the loss, Bronny remains focused on improving his game and conditioning, hoping to make a significant impact in his second season.

The Chicago Bulls and Milwaukee Bucks are set to clash for the last time in the regular season, with the Bucks holding a 2-1 edge in their series. As the game approaches, both teams face significant injury challenges that could impact their performances.

The Bulls have a lengthy injury report featuring eight players. Notably, Lonzo Ball is questionable due to an illness, while Josh Giddey is also questionable with a right ankle sprain. Matas Buzelis is dealing with an illness, and Ayo Dosunmu is doubtful because of a right soleus strain. E.J. Liddell and Adama Sanogo are both sidelined due to their two-way contracts. Jalen Smith is probable, recovering from left ankle soreness, and DJ Steward is out as he is not with the team.

On the other side, the Bucks are contending with their own injury woes, listing seven players. Superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo is questionable due to a non-covid illness, while Damian Lillard is similarly questionable for the same reason. Khris Middleton appears to be on the mend, listed as probable with a bilateral ankle injury. Andre Jackson Jr. is also probable with a right ankle sprain. However, AJ Johnson, Chris Livingston, and Tyler Smith are all out due to various reasons, including G League assignments.

With both teams grappling with injuries, the matchup promises to be intriguing as they prepare to meet at 8:00 p.m. EST tonight, with playoff implications looming large.

The Chicago Bulls and Boston Celtics are set to clash in Chicago after a brief break, with the Bulls looking to take the lead in their season series following a recent victory.

Injuries may play a significant role, as both teams have multiple players listed on their injury reports, impacting their lineups ahead of the 8:00 p.m. EST matchup.