<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/michael-jordan" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Michael Jordan</a> has been the biggest inspiration to most <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> players that came after him. Even <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LeBron James</a> admittedly dreamed of being as good as the Chicago Bulls legend.



For years, Jordan’s GOAT status was undisputed and not even debated. He was so obviously superior to every single one of his peers that no one dared to even make it a conversation.



That’s why ESPN pundit Stephen A. Smith will always have Jordan ranked higher than the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers’ </a>star, who hasn’t been the consensus best player on Earth every year.



<h2>Stephen A. Smith Makes GOAT Case For Michael Jordan</h2>



“During the LeBron James era, there were debates as to whether or not he was the best in the world,” Smith said on his podcast. “When Michael Jordan was playing there was never a debate ever as to who was the best in the world.”



“Even with Larry Bird or Magic Johnson winning the championship, it was clear that Michael Jordan was the best player in the world,” Smith added. “Larry Bird called him God.”


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/stephen-a-smith-rips-lebron-james-agent-over-alleged-disrespect-20230815-BUS-46568.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230815_BUS_46568_Stephen-A.-Smith-2.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Stephen A. Smith wasn&apos;t going to feel intimidated by Rich Paul, and he made it loud and clear.
" title="Stephen A. Smith rips LeBron James&apos; agent over alleged disrespect" publication_id="BUS#20230815#BUS#46568"></div>


Of course, everybody’s entitled to their opinion, and there should be no shame in being No. 2 to the great Michael Jordan, but these comments will most likely reignite this never-ending debate.

Stephen A. Smith explains why LeBron James will never be as good as Michael Jordan

Stephen A. Smith explains why LeBron James will never be as good as Michael Jordan - Bolavip US

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The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> is full of what-ifs. What if the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers</a> traded <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kobe-bryant" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kobe Bryant</a>? What if Kevin Garnett never left the Minnesota Timberwolves? What if Draymond Green didn’t get suspended?



No franchise has a perfect track record with this kind of thing. That’s why being a GM is so difficult, as every minor — or major — move you make could have huge implications.



That could’ve been the case when Danny Ainge almost convinced the Chicago Bulls to trade Jimmy Butler. However, to get him, he would’ve have to give up the picks that ended up being Jayson Tatum and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/jaylen-brown" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jaylen Brown.</a>



<h2>Danny Ainge Almost Landed Jimmy Butler</h2>



“Some of the best trades I ever made were the ones I wasn’t able to make,” Ainge said on the Knuckleheads podcast. “You know like I was trying to get Jimmy Butler from Chicago when I was in Boston, but they wanted a lot. And so we didn’t do it.“



“It ended up, it would’ve been Jaylen and Jayson — Both those draft picks that we got Jaylen and Jayson with,” Ainge explained. “So, that was one where I loved Jimmy and was trying to get him. That was probably one.”


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-legend-puts-celtics-on-blast-over-jaylen-browns-contract-20230811-BUS-44656.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230811_BUS_44656_Jaylen-Brown.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="As good as Jaylen Brown has been for the Boston Celtics, NBA legend Rick Barry isn&apos;t so sure about that new contract he got.
" title="NBA legend puts Celtics on blast over Jaylen Brown&apos;s contract" publication_id="BUS#20230811#BUS#44656"></div>


As great as Butler is, I believe most Celtics fans would rather get two young stars instead of just one. At the end of the day, time proved Ainge was right to kill this deal.

The trade that almost sent Jimmy Butler to the Boston Celtics

The trade that almost sent Jimmy Butler to the Boston Celtics - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/trae-young" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trae Young’s</a> snub from Team USA has been a subject of debate. The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/atlanta-hawks" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Atlanta Hawks</a>‘ point guard has been a polarizing figure even before he made it to the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a>, but the talent is clearly there.



Young is the kind of player who rises to the occasion. He can get you buckets with ease, and he’s been among the league’s top scorers and assists leaders since he entered the NBA.



That’s why Philadelphia 76ers guard Patrick Beverley believes he’s next in line to <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/stephen-curry" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stephen Curry</a>, going as far as to say that he’s going to run the league when he’s no longer there.



<h2>Patrick Beverley Says Trae Young Is Reinventing The Game</h2>



“He’s won plenty of games,” Beverley added. “He’s hit plenty of daggers. He’s reinventing the game. Whatever Steph Curry is leaving over, he’s taking it and running with it. Took his team to the Eastern Conference Finals. He’s won big on the road. You know what I’m saying? So you have to him a lot of credit.”



“That’s not to take away from anybody else or how they run things with USA,” Beverley added. “Obviously, it’s a structure that comes with it, and everybody will want to be on the team. Like De’Aaron Fox, you can make an argument about anybody– And that might leave out some of the best people. The best group of people is better than the best people.”


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/klay-thompson-makes-shocking-claim-about-stephen-currys-workouts-20230811-BUS-44849.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230811_BUS_44849_Klay-Thompson-and-Stephen-Curry.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Stephen Curry never ceases to amaze, not even his Golden State Warriors co-star Klay Thompson.
" title="Klay Thompson makes shocking claim about Stephen Curry&apos;s workouts" publication_id="BUS#20230811#BUS#44849"></div>


Young’s leadership has often been questioned, as well as his lack of interest in playing defense. But if he works on that, there’s no reason to think he can’t be the face of the league in no time.

Trae Young is Steph Curry's heir, claims NBA player

Trae Young is Steph Curry's heir, claims NBA player - Bolavip US

Not so long ago, most teams in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> would’ve given everything to get <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/james-harden" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">James Harden.</a> His tenure with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/houston-rockets" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Houston Rockets</a> was spectacular, cementing himself as one of the best scorers in the game.



But Harden’s off-court behavior has often been questionable, and his poor work ethic finally caught up with his body. He’s not always in good shape and is injury-prone.



Add a never-ending string of issues with his teams and countless poor performances in the playoffs, and you can understand why he had no choice but to go back to the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/philadelphia-76ers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Philadelphia 76ers</a> after failing to find a lucrative contract.



<h2>Kendrick Perkins Predicts James Harden Will Be Out Of The League Soon</h2>



That’s why former NBA champion Kendrick Perkins believes it’s a matter of time before Harden is no longer in the league, as he brings too much trouble and teams may not want to deal with him anymore.



“You went and criticized a guy, a friend that value you more than anybody in the league,” Perkins said on ESPN. “James Harden has everything to lose, and if he’s not careful, he could possibly be out of the league after next year. Because here’s the thing: You can’t trust him. He’s been disgruntled in the last four out of five years. The NBA don’t need him. They move on from old superstars. They have a bunch of young superstars coming in every single year that can replace him.”


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/james-harden-has-a-plan-to-get-out-of-philadelphia-and-it-could-get-ugly-20230816-BUS-47147.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230816_BUS_47147_James-Harden-3.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="James Harden is just getting started, and things could get out of hand in Philadelphia quite soon.
" title="James Harden has a plan to get out of Philadelphia, and it could get ugly" publication_id="BUS#20230816#BUS#47147"></div>


Everybody wants you when you’re at your best, but there’s simply no reason to deal with a guy like him, pay him top dollar, and not being able to count on him when it matters the most, so Perkins might have a valid point here.

James Harden could be out of the NBA soon

James Harden could be out of the NBA soon - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/golden-state-warriors" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Golden State Warriors</a> shook the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA </a>to its core when they traded for Chris<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/chris-paul" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Paul.</a> Having him on that system seems — not to mention those threads — seems quite odd, but we’ve seen crazier things happen.



Paul has been on the other side of the court way too many times. There has always been a bit of animosity between him and the Warriors, but that’s all water under the bride now.



Apparently, the veteran point guard is looking forward to showcasing his talents in the Bay area and sharing the court with<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/stephen-curry" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Stephen Curry</a> and his sworn enemies for a change. Per him, that’s just the best part of all of this.



<h2>Chris Paul Talks About His New Role With The Warriors</h2>



“I’m excited about Steph, Draymond, Klay, all the different guys, Wigs [Andrew Wiggins],” Paul told ESPN. “I’m excited for us to get together and see what it looks like. It’s just crazy how life works. But when it comes to basketball, I’m probably closest to my happiest. I’m obviously happiest when I’m with my family, but basketball is my safe haven; it’s been that way for a long time.”



“At this point in the summer, I can’t even start to even digest that [playing for the Warriors] even a little bit until we all get together,” Paul continued. “I won’t know [my role] until we get to camp. In all honesty, probably the same thing it’s always been, to hoop, leadership. With all these years of playing, the game doesn’t change so much. I’m excited to sort of figure that out.”


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/former-warriors-star-explains-why-chris-paul-will-thrive-in-the-bay-20230814-BUS-46023.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230814_BUS_46023_Chris-Paul-1.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="As questionable as the fit might be at first glance, Chris Paul could still find plenty of success with the Golden State Warriors.
" title="Former Warriors star explains why Chris Paul will thrive in the Bay" publication_id="BUS#20230814#BUS#46023"></div>


At the end of the day, Paul is one of the most intelligent players in the game, so he’ll find ways to adapt and be productive, even if that means taking a step back for the first time in his career.

Chris Paul reveals the best part about joining the Warriors

Chris Paul reveals the best part about joining the Warriors - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/james-harden">James Harden</a> has decided to go public and make it clear he wants out of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/philadelphia-76ers">Philadelphia 76ers</a> this offseason. His stance drew support from other <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba">NBA</a> stars, including a former champion with Stephen Curry at the Golden State Warriors.



“Daryl Morey is a liar and I will never be a part of an organization that he’s a part of,” Harden said about the Sixers GM. “Let me say that again: Daryl Morey is a liar and I will never be a part of an organization that he’s a part of.”



Harden opted into a player option this offseason only to be traded, but the Sixers have kept suitors at bay with their high demands. Therefore, Andre Iguodala joined the likes of Kyrie Irving and other colleagues who supported the guard’s position.



<h2>Andre Iguodala supports James Harden’s trade desire</h2>



“When you go into a contract negotiation, know what your value (is) and how you can leverage yourself. Know what opportunities you have on the other side, like to your safety net. What is James’ safety net? Daryl Morey has a history with China, where he can say something, and the backlash from what he says, it may not be any because there’s a history there with Morey and China. So it was a great move out of leverage by James, one, because it’s gonna be hard to discipline James, because what did he do wrong? Right? And James will sell some shoes. That’s ultimately why he’s over there,” Iguodala said, via Sixers Wire.



“We’re so quick to say, always say ‘disgruntled player’ because Kyrie (Irving), he had James’ back, because the headline from Woj (Adrian Wojnarowski) was ‘disgruntled player.’ James Harden is like, why is he disgruntled? Why isn’t the front office ever disgruntled? They always put players in a certain light and what you’re hearing a lot now is, players have too much power because we’re getting smarter and smarter. Because we know how to move and we know how to say certain things, and we know how to use our leverage, because when we make mistakes, it’s used against us, correct? When they make mistakes, we’ve never put ourselves in the position to use their mistakes that gets them as well and I just think he just had the perfect opportunity to repeat himself.”


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/james-harden-has-a-plan-to-get-out-of-philadelphia-and-it-could-get-ugly-20230816-BUS-47147.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230816_BUS_47147_James-Harden-3.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="James Harden is just getting started, and things could get out of hand in Philadelphia quite soon.
" title="James Harden has a plan to get out of Philadelphia, and it could get ugly" publication_id="BUS#20230816#BUS#47147"></div>


Iguodala started his career in Philadelphia, where he spent eight seasons before leaving for the Denver Nuggets. However, he’s taking Harden’s side on this one, just like many other players.

Former NBA champion with Stephen Curry at Warriors defends James Harden

Former NBA champion with Curry at Warriors defends James Harden - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/philadelphia-76ers">Philadelphia 76ers</a> have fallen short of expectations in the last few seasons, but things could get worse. While <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/james-harden">James Harden</a> made it clear he wants out, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/joel-embiid">Joel Embiid</a>‘s future also looks up in the air.



The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba">NBA</a> MVP of last year has deleted references to the city of Brotherly Love on social media, which may be a minor detail, but it still made noise. In the meantime, he’s been linked to other teams.



The New York Knicks are reportedly trying to find ways to improve their roster and have been linked with the big man recently. However, the Sixers star may also have an under-the-radar suitor.



<h2>Rumor: Rockets are a team to watch for Joel Embiid</h2>



According to Kelly Iko of The Athletic, the Houston Rockets are a dark-horse candidate to trade for Joel Embiid. Ime Udoka’s presence could be key, as long as the 29-year-old wants to leave, of course:



(Via Rockets Wire)



“Another team is Houston, just because of the bond between Joel and Ime [Udoka]. Maybe in the next year or so… because obviously, if Joel stays this season and plays it out, that’s one thing. But moving forward, I do think New York and Houston are the two teams to watch if Joel said, ‘I want to leave, too.’”


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-rumors-knicks-could-land-jole-embiid-in-wild-blockbuster-trade-20230816-BUS-47366.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230816_BUS_47366_Joel-Embiid-1.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="As crazy as it may seem, the New York Knicks have more than enough assets to get Joel Embiid.
" title="NBA Rumors: Knicks could land Jole Embiid in wild blockbuster trade" publication_id="BUS#20230816#BUS#47366"></div>


Losing Embiid would obviously be a huge blow for the Sixers, whose championship aspirations practically rely on the France internacional. However, we’ll have to wait and see whether he actually considers to leave the team.

NBA Trade Rumors: There's a dark-horse candidate to get Joel Embiid

NBA Trade Rumors: There's a dark-horse candidate to get Joel Embiid - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james">LeBron James</a> and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers">Los Angeles Lakers</a> have gone through a lot in recent years, but good things finally seem to be on the horizon for them. The 2023-24 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba">NBA</a> season is drawing nearer, and the expectations in LA are through the roof.



Rob Pelinka had already improved the roster in February, which ended up saving the season as the team made a surprising run to the Conference Finals. But now, the goal is to go even further.



The purple and gold made a number of moves this offseason to continue improving the roster, including giving Anthony Davis an extension. According to Kevin Garnett, the big man will prove his doubters wrong in the next two seasons.



<h2>Kevin Garnett expects Anthony Davis to be NBA MVP in 2023, 2024</h2>



“Guess what? I’m expecting Anthony Davis to be MVP in these next two years,” Garnett said, via Showtime Basketball. “It’s time bro. It’s time. You can’t let Joker [Nikola Jokic] come in the league and surpass – nah, nah, nah. Anthony Davis can do everything they can do. 



“Anthony Davis can do everything that Joker can do. He can do everything [Joel] Embiid can do. I’m expecting him to be MVP if not this year, definitely next year, straight up. And he’s going to take the reins of, ‘Yeah, I’m the best player in the league.’



AD has certainly proven what he’s capable of on the court. The problem is he struggled to stay healthy in the last few seasons. When injuries don’t catch up to him, Davis definitely has what it takes to play at an MVP level.

It's not LeBron James: Former NBA champion says Lakers star will be MVP the next two years

Not LeBron: Former NBA champion says Lakers star will be MVP the next two years - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/philadelphia-76ers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Philadelphia 76ers</a> and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/james-harden" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">James Harden</a> have reached a stalemate. Unless they fire Daryl Morey, it seems unlikely that they’ll ever have the former <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA </a>MVP back with the team.



And while he hasn’t chipped in on this drama, some believe that this could be a domino effect that could end up pushing Joel Embiid out of the City of Brotherly Love as well.



With that in mind, Zach Buckley of Bleacher Report put together quite an interesting trade proposal that would send Embiid to the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-york-knicks" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New York Knicks</a> in exchange for a plethora of draft picks.



<h2>NBA Rumors: Knicks Could Trade For Embiid</h2>



(Via Bleacher Report)



“New York Knicks receive: Joel Embiid



Philadelphia 76ers receive: RJ Barrett, Mitchell Robinson, Immanuel Quickley, Quentin Grimes, 2024 first-round pick, 2024 first-round pick (top-12 protected, via WAS), 2025 first-round pick (top-four protected, via MIL) and 2026 first-round pick



For years, the Knicks have been quietly stockpiling picks and prospects to potentially fuel the NBA’s next blockbuster deal. Opportunity could be knocking soon.



With James Harden wanting out of Philly, Joel Embiid might have to be thinking about a split from the Sixers. That’s just speculation for now, but he effectively welcomed postulation when he recently spoke of winning a title “in Philly or anywhere else.”



(…)



As for the Sixers, an Embiid deal would spiral them into a long-term rebuild, so they should seek out as many picks and prospects as possible.”


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-rumors-joel-embiid-to-the-knicks-is-a-real-possibility-20230724-BUS-34734.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230724_BUS_34734_joel-embiid-4.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Joel Embiid made it clear that he wants to win an NBA championship, and he already has some ties to the New York Knicks organization.
" title="NBA Rumors: Joel Embiid to the Knicks is a real possibility" publication_id="BUS#20230724#BUS#34734"></div>


Of course, this is just speculation, and it doesn’t mean this deal will actually go through. But given the latest turn of events, it wouldn’t be that shocking to think this could happen.

NBA Rumors: Knicks could land Jole Embiid in wild blockbuster trade

NBA Rumors: Knicks could land Jole Embiid in wild blockbuster trade - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers</a> got off to a terrible start to the last<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> NBA</a> season, and not many people thought that they were championship material, not even with <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/anthony-davis" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LeBron James</a> on the court.



But they were quick to right their wrong, making some major moves to revamp their roster ahead of the second half of the season, and they were the second-best team in the league during that stretch.



So, now that they’ve doubled down on that investment, surrounding James and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/anthony-davis" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Anthony Davis</a> with plenty of depth, coach Darvin Ham is quite confident in their ability to get the job done this season.



<h2>Darvin Ham Praises The Lakers’ Depth</h2>



“Absolutely [I think we’re close to a championship team],” Ham told ESPN. “We have leadership like LeBron James and Anthony Davis; some of the talent we were able to bring back in Rui Hachimura, Austin Reaves and D’Angelo Russell.”



“Then, you think about the guys we added in Gabe Vincent, Taurean Prince, Cam Reddish, Jaxson Hayes. I think the sky is the limit for what we will be able to do,” he added. “I think we added a lot of depth, a lot of guys that have skill, size and athleticism, so I look forward to all of that coming together.”


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/insider-explains-why-anthony-davis-didnt-deserve-that-extension-20230815-BUS-46516.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230815_BUS_46516_Anthony-Davis-3.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Los Angeles Lakers star Anthony Davis got way overpaid, according to Stephen A. Smith.
" title="Insider explains why Anthony Davis didn&apos;t deserve that extension" publication_id="BUS#20230815#BUS#46516"></div>


We still have to see how these new pieces gel with their current roster. But barring a major disaster, this Lakers team could fare much better and raise banner No. 18.

Darvin Ham explains why this Lakers team is better than last year's

Darvin Ham explains why this Lakers team is better than last year's - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/boston-celtics">Boston Celtics</a> are taking huge risks to win their first championship since 2008. A blockbuster trade to get Kristaps Porzingis and the biggest contract in NBA history for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/jaylen-brown">Jaylen Brown</a>.



In the process, Marcus Smart went to the Grizzlies, but Jayson Tatum remains as the leader of a team which should be considered favorite to reach the NBA Finals in the Eastern Conference.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-news-jaylen-browns-emotional-message-to-celtics-fans-after-contract-extension-20230727-BUS-36429.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230727_BUS_36429_jaylenbrown.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Jaylen Brown had a very special message for Celtics&apos; fans after getting the biggest contract in NBA history. 
" title="Jaylen Brown&apos;s special message to Celtics&apos; fans after contract extension" publication_id="BUS#20230727#BUS#36429"></div>


Though there are other contenders like the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/miami-heat">Heat</a>, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/milwaukee-bucks">Bucks</a> or the Sixers, the Celtics’ roster is superb. However, just a few months before a new season begins in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba">NBA</a>, there are bad news about Porzingis.



<h2>Will Kristaps Porzingis play at the 2023 FIBA World Cup?</h2>



Kristaps Porzingis will not play at the 2023 FIBA World Cup with Latvia because of a plantar fasciitis. The decision was made after many talks with the medical staff of the national team and the Boston Celtics.


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 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/lebron-james-announces-final-decision-between-lakers-or-retirement-20230702-BUS-22095.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230702_BUS_22095_lebronjames-1.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="After many weeks of uncertainty, LeBron James has confirmed his final decision between the Los Angeles Lakers and retirement from the NBA.
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“This is very difficult for me. I feel responsible with myself and with thousands of fans at Latvia, but I’ve decided not to play in the World Cup. After many weeks of recovery, the plantar fasciitis on my foot still doesn’t let me be ready to compete”.



<h2>How long will Kristaps Porzingis be out with Celtics?</h2>



The 2023-2024 season is just two months away and, at the moment, there’s no official timetable for Kristaps Porzingis. This means there are no guarantees he’ll be at the opener with the Boston Celtics on October 24.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/damian-lillard-officially-wants-to-play-with-jimmy-butler-and-miami-heat-20230701-BUS-21378.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230701_BUS_21378_damianlillard-1.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Damian Lillard has chosen his next team. The Miami Heat and Jimmy Butler are favorites to land him, but, the Blazers might have a final word. 
" title="Damian Lillard gets bad news from Blazers" publication_id="BUS#20230701#BUS#21378"></div>


However, according to a report from The Athletic, the Celtics are not concerned about this injury update. A source confirmed they believe there won’t be any setback. Porzingis has a contract valid until the 2025-2026 season with a total of $96 million.

Celtics get worrying news about Kristaps Porzingis

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Damian Lillard takes a big shot at Kevin Durant

Celtics get worrying news about Kristaps Porzingis - Bolavip US

When it comes to forcing his way out of an <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> team, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/james-harden" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">James Harden</a> has done it all. From showing up late and out of shape to publically calling his GM out, the former <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/houston-rockets" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Houston Rockets</a> star’s trade request bag is as deep as we’ve ever seen.



However, he’s dealing with a bit of a stubborn guy right now. GM Daryl Morey has often played the long game, and he’s not the kind of guy to be moved by some outside noise.



That’s why Harden might need to go to great lengths to successfully force his way out of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/philadelphia-76ers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Philadelphia 76ers.</a> And according to Ramona Shelbourne of ESPN, we haven’t seen anything yet.



<h2>James Harden Will Go The Extra Mile To Force A Trade</h2>



“This is just the beginning of what James Harden is going to do to make life very uncomfortable for the Philadelphia 76ers going into training camp,“ Shelbourne reported.



“The expectation with Harden, they did this with Ben Simmons where he didn’t show up to camp and left money on the table, that’s not gonna happen with James Harden,” she added.


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" title="Sixers could still trade James Harden, but there&apos;s a major catch" publication_id="BUS#20230815#BUS#46496"></div>


Harden reportedly won’t hold out, but he’ll try and make life hell in Philadelphia. Ironically, that’s one of the reasons why his current value in the league is as low as it’s ever been.

James Harden has a plan to get out of Philadelphia, and it could get ugly

James Harden has a plan to get out of Philadelphia, and it could get ugly - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers</a> couldn’t get the job done last season. They were close to another trip to the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> Finals, but<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> LeBron James</a> was gassed out, and the Denver Nuggets were just too much to handle.



But GM Rob Pelinka has made some interesting moves this offseason. Besides keeping their core together, he brought in some reinforcements that could help this team go the distance.



And with <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/anthony-davis" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Anthony Davis</a> locked up with a contract extension, Austin Reaves says that the Lakers have set one goal and one goal only for the upcoming campaign, which is raising banner No. 18.



<h2>Lakers Want To Win The Championship Next Season</h2>



“I feel really, really good about what we did,” said Reaves. “You bring back the core that went to the Western Conference Finals and those pieces fit really well with what we kinda need because we lacked that last year. Overall, everybody’s competitive, and we kinda got that taste last year of running it back and trying to win a championship.”



“The main goal for the Lakers is to win a championship. All I care about, all we care about, is to raise another banner in the rafters,” added Reaves.


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Of course, that’s the goal every season, but it feels like the Lakers finally have more than enough to get it done. That’s of course, barring yet another major injury to one of their stars.

Austin Reaves reveals the Lakers goal for the season

Austin Reaves reveals the Lakers goal for the season - Bolavip US

It’s a quiet moment in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba">NBA</a> offseason, which is why some of the topics that come to surface in the basketball world are related to who’s the GOAT or the best player nowadays. Unsurprisingly, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james">LeBron James</a> and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/stephen-curry">Stephen Curry</a> are always mentioned in these conversations.



The King is often compared to Michael Jordan in the never-ending debate on who’s the greatest player of all time. But people also bring up his name when comparing his impact to that of Curry’s in the current era.



Both have won four championships, with the difference that James lifted the trophy with three different teams, whereas Steph never left Golden State. However, in NBA legend Rick Barry‘s eyes, Curry is the face of NBA.



<h2>Rick Barry calls Stephen Curry face of NBA over LeBron James</h2>



“To me, the biggest face of the NBA is Stephen Curry because more people can relate to him,” Barry told Eric Jay Santos of Inside the Celtics. “A normal, everyday human being can’t relate to LeBron James. 



“He’s an anomaly… a big, powerful guy, and there are not many people like LeBron James. There are people who look like Stephen Curry, are built like Stephen Curry, but they don’t play basketball like Stephen Curry.”


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Barry knows a thing or two about the league, and he has a fair point. Either way, LeBron is still an inspiration for millions who look up to him regardless of his unique conditions. Both he and Steph are without any doubt the most impactful basketball players the NBA has had in years.

NBA legend explains why Stephen Curry, not LeBron James, is the league's face

NBA legend explains why Stephen Curry, not LeBron James, is the league's face - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers">Los Angeles Lakers</a> finally seem to be in a position to succeed after so many years. Darvin Ham didn’t have an easy job at the beginning, but eventually, he came close to taking the team to the 2023 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba">NBA</a> Finals.



The purple and gold struggled to get results in his first months as head coach, until Rob Pelinka fixed the roster at the February trade deadline. The GM continued to make changes this offseason and it looks like the chances to win are real.



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james">LeBron James</a> is staying, Anthony Davis signed an extension and other key contributors are back. The Lakers have more depth now, which is why Ham believes they can win the championship.



<h2>Darvin Ham says depth could be key for the Lakers</h2>



“Absolutely [I think we’re close to a championship team],” Ham told ESPN. “We have leadership like LeBron James and Anthony Davis; some of the talent we were able to bring back in Rui Hachimura, Austin Reaves and D’Angelo Russell.



“Then, you think about the guys we added in Gabe Vincent, Taurean Prince, Cam Reddish, Jaxson Hayes. I think the sky is the limit for what we will be able to do. I think we added a lot of depth, a lot of guys that have skill, size and athleticism, so I look forward to all of that coming together.”


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The Lakers have interesting options behind their starting lineup, which is always necessary for a team with serious aspirations. The season is still a few months away from us, but it’s safe to say James and company have reasons for optimism.

Darvin Ham explains why Lakers can finally win the NBA championship

Darvin Ham explains why Lakers can finally win the NBA championship - Bolavip US

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