<div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-rumors-suns-could-target-kevin-durants-former-teammate-at-nets-20230615-BUS-11788.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230615_BUS_11788_Kevin-Durant-Phoenix-Suns-NBA-2023.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="The Phoenix Suns were mentioned as a possible landing spot for a free agent who played with Kevin Durant at the Brooklyn Nets.
" title="NBA Rumors: Suns could target Kevin Durant&apos;s former teammate at Nets" publication_id="BUS#20230615#BUS#11788"></div>

 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/76ers-news-doc-rivers-explains-why-joel-embiid-left-much-to-be-desired-in-the-nba-playoffs-20230615-BUS-11764.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230615_BUS_11764_Embiid-playoffs-2023.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Joel Embiid did great in the 2022-23 NBA regular season, but his level went downhill in the playoffs. Former Philadelphia 76ers coach explained the reason behind that decline.
" title="76ers news: Doc Rivers explains why Joel Embiid left much to be desired in the NBA playoffs" publication_id="BUS#20230615#BUS#11764"></div>


The 2022-23 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba">NBA</a> season didn’t go as many predicted. The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/phoenix-suns">Phoenix Suns</a>, for instance, were expected to contend after they traded for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kevin-durant">Kevin Durant</a>, while no one thought the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers">Los Angeles Lakers</a> would make the Conference Finals.



Now that the playoffs are officially over, the rumor mill starts to take center stage, and both the Suns and Lakers are teams to watch this offseason. Phoenix has a legitimate chance to win, but it has to make the rights moves.



Owner Mat Ishbia has immediately shown his intention to build a successful team, but it looks like he’ll have to continue working for it. According to reports, the Suns could go after a former champion in LA this summer.



<h2>Rumor: Suns considering trade for Kyle Kuzma</h2>



Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints claims that Kyle Kuzma could be on the Phoenix Suns’ radar this offseason. A former champion with the Purple and Gold in 2020, Kuzma could become an unrestricted free agent by opting out of his contract in Washington.



With Bradley Beal reportedly on his way out, Kuzma could follow suit and leave the Wizards ahead of the 2023-24 season. In that case, Siegel reports the Suns could become a “prime” landing spot.



“Expected to see a new contract that will pay him well over $20 million per year, landing Kuzma seems impossible for the Suns to do via straight-up signing in free agency, which is why a sign-and-trade scenario would need to be explored,” Siegel wrote.



“Could Washington be interested in bringing in Ayton and building with him if they were to go through a rebuild? This would be the most likely path for Kuzma to land in Phoenix this offseason, especially since the Suns could look to expand this trade scenario with one of the Wizards veteran guards in Monte Morris and Delon Wright, both of whom are entering the final years of their respective contracts.“


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/ringless-nba-teams-that-have-never-won-a-championship-20230613-BUS-9788.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230613_BUS_9788_phoenix-suns.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Now that the Denver Nuggets have finally won their first NBA Championship, let&apos;s take a look at the teams that still haven&apos;t been able to pull it off.
" title="Ringless: NBA teams that have never won a championship" publication_id="BUS#20230613#BUS#9788"></div>


Should Kuzma hit the open market this offseason, he shouldn’t be lacking in suitors. At 27, he can still be an important contributor for a team with serious aspirations. Besides, he knows Frank Vogel from their time together in LA.

NBA Rumors: Suns could try to pair Kevin Durant with former champion with Lakers

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NBA Rumors: Suns could target Kevin Durant's former teammate at Nets

NBA Rumors: Suns could try to pair Kevin Durant with former champion with Lakers - Bolavip US

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The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/miami-heat" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Miami Heat</a> wouldn’t be the team it is nowadays without Erik Spoelstra. From his days in the video room all the way to the bench, leading them to multiple trips to the<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba-finals" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> NBA Finals</a> and two <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA </a>championships.



But as good as he is nowadays, he wasn’t always like that. As it happens in this business, he wasn’t the fanciest candidate for the coaching job when Pat Riley gave him the nod in 2008.



As a matter of fact, Heat legend <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/dwyane-wade-blames-one-player-for-the-heats-loss-to-the-mavs-in-the-2011-nba-finals-20230614-BUS-10697.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dwyane Wade</a> wasn’t much of a fan of his at first, going as far as to say that he was a terrible coach when he got the job. Fortunately, he still decided to work with him.



<h2>Dwyane Wade Says Erik Spoelstra Was A Terrible Coach</h2>



“I knew Spo. I had a great relationship with Spo because Spo would work me out; he’s my workout guy,” Wade told Shannon Sharpe. “So, I liked Spo, but I didn’t know Spo as a coach. When he first go there, he was a terrible coach, but he was a great guy to prepare you. He was going to work his a** off.”



“No one was going to outwork him,” Wade added. “No one was going to be more prepared than him. He just had to learn when to call timeouts. What plays to run out of timeouts? All these things that you got to learn as a coach. As a star player, I had to go to work with the coach and that’s why our relationship is what it is today.”



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-youtube"><iframe loading="lazy" title="Dwyane Wade on LeBron Retiring, Gabrielle Union 50/50 Comment, Jimmy Butler and Miami Heat | EP. 84" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/9EYhx1M2s1o?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
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Spoelstra worked his way up the ladder and became one of the best tacticians in the game. That’s a reminder for all teams out there firing their coaches after one or two bad seasons.

Dwyane Wade takes a big shot at Erik Spoelstra

Dwyane Wade takes a big shot at Erik Spoelstra - Bolavip US

<div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-rumors-blazers-find-potential-all-star-teammate-for-damian-lillard-20230519-BUS-2385.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230519_BUS_2385_damian-lillard.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="The Portland Trail Blazers could look to move their No. 3 pick and pair Damian Lillard with another All-Star.
" title="NBA Rumors: Blazers find potential All-Star teammate for Damian Lillard" publication_id="BUS#20230519#BUS#2385"></div>

 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-rumors-potential-destinations-for-chris-paul-2-20230608-BUS-7460.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230608_BUS_7460_chris-paul.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="With Chris Paul likely to be waived by the Phoenix Suns, we take a look at three destinations that make sense for him.
" title="NBA Rumors: Potential destinations for Chris Paul" publication_id="BUS#20230608#BUS#7460"></div>


The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/chicago-bulls">Chicago Bulls</a> seemed to have everything to get back to prominence in the 2022-23 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba">NBA</a> season. Last year, they lost to the Milwaukee Bucks in their first postseason appearance in a long time. But this time they did not even get past the Play-In.



Eventual finalists <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/miami-heat">Miami Heat</a> knocked them out to clinch the 8th seed and the last ticket to the playoffs, leaving the Bulls with many questions ahead of the 2023 season.



While Chicago seems to have pieces to do much better, the truth is that things haven’t gone to plan so far, which is why the front office would be considering trading two-time NBA All-Star Zach LaVine.



<h2>Rumor: Bulls gauging potential suitors for Zach LaVine</h2>



“Wishful executives will keep their eyes peeled on Portland and Damian Lillard, but it’s the Chicago Bulls who have started contacting teams, quietly gauging the trade interest in Zach LaVine, league sources told Yahoo Sports,” Jake Fischer reports. “It remains to be seen just how willing Chicago is to part ways with LaVine, or if it receives a commensurate offer for his services.”



If available, many teams will probably pick up the phone to know what the Bulls are expecting in return. LaVine has failed to carry the team to a deep playoff run, but he could do much better in a star-studded team.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/NBA-Rumors-Zach-LaVine-wants-to-play-for-the-Knicks-20230313-0011.html" image="https://bolavip.com/__export/1678717394007/sites/bolavip/img/2023/03/13/zach_lavine.jpg_1890075089.jpg" excerpt="With the Chicago Bulls looking far from a contender right now, it seems like star guard Zach LaVine is ready to take his talents somewhere else." title="NBA Rumors: Zach LaVine wants to play for the Knicks" publication_id="BUS#20230313#CMS#0011"></div>


Either way, even if Chicago is considering this idea, it will probably take a lot to let him go. After all, LaVine continues to carry much of the Bulls’ aspirations along with Nikola Vucevic and DeMar DeRozan.

NBA Rumors: Chicago Bulls willing to trade one of their stars

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NBA Rumors: Chicago Bulls willing to trade one of their stars - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers</a> are just a couple of pieces away from being a legit <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA </a>championship contender. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LeBron James</a> is unlikely to retire after a full summer to restore his body.



But they must also try and retain their key contributors in free agency. Other than D’Angelo Russell, they should go the extra mile to try and keep the band together for at least another year.



That’s why they need to keep an eye on the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/houston-rockets" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Houston Rockets,</a> as they could reportedly look to make a run at Austin Reaves if they fail to land James Harden this summer.



<h2>NBA Rumors: Rockets Want To Sign Austin Reaves</h2>



“Should Harden not come to Houston, the Rockets are expected to have interest in Lakers restricted free agent Austin Reaves, I’m told,” reported Michael Scotto of HoopsHype.



<h2>Lakers Will Match Any Offer Up To $100 Million</h2>



Notably, that would force Rob Pelinka’s hand to try and match all offers for Reaves up to $100 million. The Lakers want to keep him after such a remarkable season:



“The Lakers are going to match any contract offer sheet that he signs up to that $100 million,” Buha reported. “The Lakers view him as the third-best player on this team if you look at the regular season and postseason he had. He stepped up big time and was basically an 18-5-5 guy with near 50-40-90 shooting splits as a starter for them. There were several factors as to why the Lakers made that second-half run, but chief among them — and maybe the biggest factor overall — was Reaves’ ascension.”



The Rockets might have to overpay for Reaves’ services and force the Lakers out of the race. Otherwise, Reaves will most likely continue his career dressed in purple and gold.

Rockets are ready to steal a Lakers star away from LeBron James

Rockets are ready to steal a Lakers star away from LeBron James - Bolavip US

It’s been a while since the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-york-knicks" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New York Knicks </a>won an <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> championship. Likewise, it seems like forever since they were able to land a star-caliber player, one like <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/zion-williamson" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Zion Williamson.</a>



Of course, this isn’t exactly the best time to talk about Zion. Off-court controversies, never-ending injuries, and some worrisome reports about his work ethic have raised questions about his future in the league.



But that’s precisely why this might as well be the only time the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-orleans-pelicans" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New Orleans Pelicans </a>even consider moving him. With that in mind, Jason Burgos of Sportsnaut believes the Knicks could get him in return for Quentin Grimes, Immanuel Quickley, Julius Randle, and two first-round picks.



<h2>NBA Rumors: Knicks Could Trade For Zion Williamson</h2>



“The New York Knicks’ interest in Zion Williamson has been long documented,” Burgos wrote. “While many Knicks fans will have flashbacks of Amare Stoudemire in a deal for Williamson, his upside is undeniable. Furthermore, it may also be their best chance to finally move Julius Randle. A former Pelican who might appeal to New Orleans now due to his durability over the last few seasons.”



“Plus, if the Knicks added bench star Immanuel Quickley and a couple of first-rounders next year in the deal, that could be enough to part with the oft-injured star,” the insider added.



This is a risky move for both parties. The Pelicans would add depth to compete right away but no legit stars — unless they find one in the Draft. As for the Knicks, they could either land a superstar or a guy who’ll be in street clothes more often than not.

NBA Rumors: Knicks could land Zion Williamson in proposed trade

NBA Rumors: Knicks could land Zion Williamson in proposed trade - Bolavip US

<div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/dwyane-wade-blames-one-player-for-the-heats-loss-to-the-mavs-in-the-2011-nba-finals-20230614-BUS-10697.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230614_BUS_10697_dwyane-wade.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="More than a decade later, Dwyane Wade still hasn&apos;t forgotten about the guy who made him lose the NBA championship in 2011.
" title="Dwyane Wade blames one player for the Heat&apos;s loss to the Mavs in the 2011 NBA Finals" publication_id="BUS#20230614#BUS#10697"></div>

 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/former-nba-champion-claims-he-could-have-been-in-goat-debate-with-lebron-james-michael-jordan-20230614-BUS-10745.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230614_BUS_10745_LeBron-James-vs-Michael-Jordan.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Many believe the GOAT conversation is reduced to LeBron James or Michael Jordan, but a former NBA champion claims he could have also been in this debate if it weren&apos;t for injuries.
" title="Former NBA champion claims he could have been in GOAT debate with LeBron James, Michael Jordan" publication_id="BUS#20230614#BUS#10745"></div>


Back in the day, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/dwyane-wade">Dwyane Wade</a> and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" rel="nofollow">LeBron James</a> formed one of, if not the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/Ranking-the-top-40-of-LeBron-James-teammates-from-worst-to-best-NBA-20200527-0001.html">feariest duo</a> in the NBA. Those days are gone, but The King continues to shine with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers">Los Angeles Lakers</a>.



The Purple and Gold were one of the most improved teams of the year, reaching the Conference Finals after an impressive turnaround since the trade deadline. However, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/denver-nuggets">Nuggets</a> were too much for them.



Shannon Sharpe asked Wade whether the result against Denver would have been different if it weren’t for James’ injury during the regular season. Surprisingly, the Heat legend’s answer was that it was actually something positive for the Lakers.



<h2>Dwyane Wade explains how LeBron James’ injury benefited Lakers</h2>



“I think the outcome is different between the Lakers,” Wade said, via Lakers Daily. “With him getting that time away, actually we got a chance to see them grow as a team outside of LeBron. We got to see A.D. (Anthony Davis) grow at that level. Obviously, when he on the floor, we was like, ‘Top five player in the league.’ We got a chance to see what the D-Lo (D’Angelo Russell) can bring and what Austin Reaves can bring.



“The best thing to happen to the Lakers was LeBron’s absence because it allowed them to not have to depend on him, right? Because when you got a great player, you depend on that great player. And so they have the rock, and they have something to play for in the middle of that. And so I think it was great for the Lakers.”



Well, if you see it that way, then you could say it was a blessing in disguise. The Lakers got to see the worth of other players, which is important moving forward. Even so, it’s safe to say it’s always better to have your biggest star healthy.

Dwyane Wade shockingly claims LeBron James' injury was the best thing to happen to the Lakers

Dwyane Wade blames one player for the Heat's loss to the Mavs in the 2011 NBA Finals

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Dwyane Wade shockingly claims LeBron James' injury was the best thing to happen to the Lakers - Bolavip US

<div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/NBA-Rumors-The-shocking-reason-Clippers-may-not-bring-back-Russell-Westbrook-20230505-0037.html" image="https://bolavip.com/__export/1683328842529/sites/bolavip/img/2023/05/05/los_angelesx_california_-_april_20__russell_westbrook_x0_of_the_la_clippers_in_the_second_half_of_ga.jpg_1890075089.jpg" excerpt="Russell Westbrook did great in his short stint with the Los Angeles Clippers, but it looks like the team may not be able to re-sign him in the offseason." title="NBA Rumors: The shocking reason Clippers may not bring back Russell Westbrook" publication_id="BUS#20230505#CMS#0037"></div>

 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/Paul-George-sends-message-to-Clippers-front-office-in-regard-to-Russell-Westbrook-20230502-0038.html" image="https://bolavip.com/__export/1683065311019/sites/bolavip/img/2023/05/02/san_franciscox_california_-_march_02__russell_westbrook_x0_and_paul_george_x13_of_the_la_clippers_si.jpg_1890075089.jpg" excerpt="Russell Westbrook becomes an unrestricted free agent this offseason and&amp;nbsp;Paul George believes the Los Angeles Clippers&apos; front office must bring him back next season." title="Paul George sends message to Clippers&apos; front office in regard to Russell Westbrook" publication_id="BUS#20230502#CMS#0038"></div>


<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/russell-westbrook">Russell Westbrook</a> has been able to revitalize his <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba">NBA</a> career in just a few months. All it took for him to increase his stock again was a move to the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-clippers">Los Angeles Clippers</a>, following a tough stint with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers">Lakers</a>.



While Brodie struggled to play like his true self with the Purple and Gold, he rediscovered his best form once he joined the crosstown rivals. Now, he’s expected to have <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/NBA-Rumors-Potential-destinations-for-Russell-Westbrook-20230428-0033.html">suitors in the free agency</a>.



The former MVP proved he can be a key contributor during his time with the Clippers, putting the team on his back when Paul George and Kawhi Leonard were out. Unless he decides to stay in LA, it looks like many teams out there could try and get Westbrook.



<h2>Rumor: Teams that could pursue Russell Westbrook in free agency</h2>



“There does not appear to be another franchise likely to offer a starting spot (or starter money), but there could be young rosters and possibly playoff-caliber teams offering a third-guard role,” Danny Leroux of The Athletic wrote. “Presumably, the most talented squads would at least have interest bringing in Westbrook as an option.”



Leroux mentioned the Phoenix Suns, Boston Celtics, Milwaukee Bucks, Dallas Mavericks, Philadelphia 76ers, and Miami Heat as ‘high-end’ teams who could use Westbrook to have depth at point guard. The Sixers and Heat, however, would only be on the mix if they lose James Harden and Gabe Vincent, respectively.



The Brooklyn Nets, Portland Trail Blazers, Minnesota Timberwolves, Chicago Bulls, Detroit Pistons, and San Antonio Spurs were also mentioned as possible landing spots, but with less chances than the aforementioned group of teams.

NBA Rumors: Russell Westbrook's potential destinations outside Los Angeles

NBA Rumors: The shocking reason Clippers may not bring back Russell Westbrook

Paul George sends message to Clippers' front office in regard to Russell Westbrook

NBA Rumors: Russell Westbrook's potential destinations outside Los Angeles - Bolavip US

For most of their history, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-clippers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Clippers</a> have been bottom-feeders, mostly living in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers</a> shadow. Up to this day, they haven’t even made the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> Finals.



But this team has made great strides over the past decade or so. They’ve become perennial contenders, and Steve Ballmer has gone the extra mile to try and get them over the hump.



However, this team can never seem to catch a break, as it showed with <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kawhi-leonard" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kawhi Leonard’s</a> injury in the playoffs. That’s why Jerry West — who’s worked there as a consultant since 2017 — can’t help but think they’re just jinxed.



<h2>Jerry West Blames God For The Clippers’ Shortcomings</h2>



“We’ve had two chances here with the Clippers, two chances,” West told Paul George on Podcast P. “And for whatever reason, the big guy in the sky didn’t want us to get there.”



“Injuries. I’ve never seen anything like this in my life,” continued West. “In my whole life, two players of the caliber of you and Kawhi can’t play half the season. I mean, it’s crazy. You look at Kawhi’s body, I mean, how can he ever get hurt? I feel so badly for him. It drives me crazy. He didn’t have a chance, and he works his fanny off. (…) You go home, and you say to yourself, ‘My gosh, it’s almost like there’s a jinx somewhere’.”



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">"It&apos;s almost like there&apos;s a jinx somewhere." Hall of Famer and Clippers special consultant Jerry West on the franchise&apos;s injury woes <a href="https://t.co/pKr9XEgF4p">pic.twitter.com/pKr9XEgF4p</a>— Podcast P with Paul George (@PodcastPShow) <a href="https://twitter.com/PodcastPShow/status/1668742609144270848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 13, 2023</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/ringless-nba-teams-that-have-never-won-a-championship-20230613-BUS-9788.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230613_BUS_9788_phoenix-suns.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Now that the Denver Nuggets have finally won their first NBA Championship, let&apos;s take a look at the teams that still haven&apos;t been able to pull it off.
" title="Ringless: NBA teams that have never won a championship" publication_id="BUS#20230613#BUS#9788"></div>


Truth be told, it’s hard to find another explanation. It happened during the Lob City era, and it’s happening all over again this time. Will they ever get rid of this bad mojo?

Jerry West reveals the only reason why the Clippers will never win a ring

Jerry West reveals the only reason why the Clippers will never win a ring - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kobe-bryant" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kobe Bryant</a> went down as one of the greatest players in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> history not only because of what he did with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers </a>but also for how he managed to inspire so many generations of players.



His determination to be always the first person in and the last person out of the gym and outwork every single hooper on Earth, plus his unmatched character and mental strength, made him a legend.



That’s why former NBA player Jamal Crawford — who went against the likes of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/michael-jordan" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Michael Jordan</a>, LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and many others, chose Kobe as the toughest player he ever faced.



<h2>Jamal Crawford Says Kobe Was The Toughest Player Ever</h2>



“Guarding him was like no other,” Crawford said. “He was literally the best player I’ve ever played against. He had no fear. He could go 1-for-15 and think he was hot. His work ethic, his skill. When you knew you were going to play against him, he wanted to take your heart but you lost sleep the night before.”



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<div class="ck-youtube"><iframe loading="lazy" title="Jamal Crawford Joins! Nuggets Win 2023 NBA Finals | Run It Back" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/R9O7u3gnXmw?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
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Kobe took several moves out of Michael Jordan’s book, and he was perhaps the closest thing we ever had to him. But more than his moves, his mind games and work ethic separated him from the rest of the pack.



It’s a shame that life took him away from us so early. But at least we can rest assured that his spirit and Mamba Mentality still live in dozens of hoopers he inspired to get better every day.

Jamal Crawford explains why Kobe Bryant was the best player he ever faced

Jamal Crawford explains why Kobe Bryant was the best player he ever faced - Bolavip US

<div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/Charles-Barkley-explains-why-LeBron-James-will-never-be-the-GOAT-over-Michael-Jordan-20230403-0005.html" image="https://bolavip.com/__export/1680528514785/sites/bolavip/img/2023/04/03/charles_barkley.jpg_1890075089.jpg" excerpt="Even though he still has high praise for LeBron James, Hall of Famer Charles Barkley points out why Michael Jordan will always be superior." title="Charles Barkley explains why LeBron James will never be the GOAT over Michael Jordan" publication_id="BUS#20230403#CMS#0005"></div>

 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/Jordan-LeBron-Kareem-Charles-Barkley-makes-shocking-choice-for-GOAT-20230221-0007.html" image="https://bolavip.com/__export/1676992541280/sites/bolavip/img/2023/02/21/charles_barkley.jpg_1890075089.jpg" excerpt="The NBA has had no shortage of superstars since its dawn. So, choosing just one GOAT might be insufficient or unfair, according to Charles Barkley." title="Jordan, LeBron, Kareem? Charles Barkley makes shocking choice for GOAT" publication_id="BUS#20230221#CMS#0007"></div>

 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="" image="" excerpt="" title="" publication_id=""></div>


Sports fans always like to compare teams or players, regardless of the eras they’ve played in. One of the favorite questions in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba">NBA</a> world is who’s the greatest basketball player of all time, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james">LeBron James</a> or <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/michael-jordan">Michael Jordan</a>.



Of course, some fans may throw other names in the mix, including Kobe Bryant, Bill Russell, Stephen Curry or Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. Dwyane Wade, meanwhile, believes he could have also been in this conversation.



According to the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/miami-heat">Miami Heat</a> legend, if it weren’t for injuries, he would have made a strong case to debate the GOAT status. In an interview with Shannon Sharpe, the three-time NBA champ explained his take.



<h2>Dwyane Wade says he’d be in GOAT debate if it weren’t for injuries</h2>



“You doing your G.O.A.T. conversation with me,” Wade said, via Heat Nation. “… Like I said, we talking about ifs. You take away the injuries away, I’m still playing basketball right now if I want to, right? Because it’s the injuries and everything and the mental, right? But if I’m healthy enough — you gotta understand something about my game, multiple ways, right? I played the game multiple ways, so even right now, as I got older, I had another game that still was effective as an old player.



“So in my mind, you’re right. I was one of them dudes. You couldn’t tell me in ’06, ’07, ’08 that I wasn’t going on to where I wanted to go, right? Why not? The league is not hard for me. I’m averaging 30 a game in the NBA.“



Wade sustained three knee injuries throughout his career, one of them in college and the other two in the NBA, as well as shoulder and elbow injuries. However, what matters is that he was still able to succeed and get the recognition he deserves from the league.



D-Wade got to retire as a Heat, where he has his iconic No. 3 hanging on the rafters. He was also selected in the NBA 75th anniversary team and in August will be inducted to the Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility. In his prime, Wade was definitely one of the best players the league has ever seen.

Charles Barkley explains why LeBron James will never be the GOAT over Michael Jordan

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Former NBA champion claims he could have been in GOAT debate with LeBron James, Michael Jordan - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/miami-heat" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Miami Heat</a> became the most popular team in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA </a>as soon as <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LeBron James </a>announced he was taking his talents to South Beach. Some loved them; some hated them.



The Heat made the NBA Finals right away to face a veteran Dallas Mavericks team that seemingly had no chance to beat them. The Heat vastly underperformed and wound up losing in six games.



And as much as people have talked about Dirk Nowitzki’s incredible playoff run — and rightfully so — <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/NBA-News-LeBron-James-reacts-to-Dwayne-Wades-Hall-of-Fame-induction-announcement-20221222-0036.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dwyane Wade</a> believes it all went down to the play of one unsung hero: J.J. Barea.



<h2>Dwyane Wade Says J.J. Barea Killed The Heat</h2>



“We got outplayed and outcoached,” Wade said on Shannon Sharpe’s ‘Club ShayShay.’ “If you go back and ask the players, and ask Spo &amp; the coaching staff, they got outcoached, and the players got outplayed when it came down to winning. We didn’t close out games. We got outcoached by Rick Carlisle, and we got outplayed by Dirk and Jason Terry, and JKidd, and that little J.J. Barea”.



“Nobody gave him credit, J.J. Barea changed it, and we didn’t have no answer for him,” Wade continued. “No one played for little J.J. to come off the bench and do what he did. I look at the MVP from a player who really helped push that series over, I give it to J.J. because we didn’t have no answer for him.” 



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<div class="ck-youtube"><iframe loading="lazy" title="Dwyane Wade on LeBron Retiring, Gabrielle Union 50/50 Comment, Jimmy Butler and Miami Heat | EP. 84" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/9EYhx1M2s1o?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
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Notably, Barea torched him for 15 and 17 points in the final two games, nearly twice as much as his season average. He made some winning plays on both ends of the floor, and Wade will never forget his name from that day on.

Dwyane Wade blames one player for the Heat's loss to the Mavs in the 2011 NBA Finals - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/philadelphia-76ers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Philadelphia 76ers</a> had the perfect opportunity to get to the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> Finals — or at least the Conference Finals — for the first time in two decades. They wasted it by failing to close the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/boston-celtics" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Boston Celtics</a> out not once but twice.



Now, they’re looking at a key offseason. They made a solid move by replacing Doc Rivers with Nick Nurse, and now they need to focus on strengthening their roster around Joel Embiid.



And with all the rumors of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/james-harden" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">James Harden</a> opting out of his deal, they might need to look at the rest of the league for a suitable replacement. Notably, Brian Windhorst of ESPN believes Bradley Beal could be available.



<h2>NBA Rumors: Bradley Beal Could Be Available</h2>



“Beal has a unique contract unlike anybody else’s in the NBA,” Windhorst said. “He has a no-trade clause, which means not only can he decide if he wants to leave the Wizards, but he can decide who and what he is traded for.”



“It makes it extremely difficult to find a deal, and Michael Winger has said he has not made up his mind yet, but that indecision has led teams to keep a very close eye on the Wizards as they not only have Beal but big free agents Kyle Kuzma and Kristaps Porzingis,” added Windhorst.



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<div class="ck-youtube"><iframe loading="lazy" title="🚨 WINDY WATCH 🚨 Wizards dealing Bradley Beal? | Get Up" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/oiPeeVRt1z4?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
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<h2>Sixers Could Lead The Race For Beal</h2>



Should that be the case, then NBA insider Bill Simmons believes the Sixers should be the obvious frontrunners to acquire his services, as they almost traded for him before Harden arrived:



“My odds on favorite is Philadelphia and I don’t even think it’s close,” Simmons said on his podcast. “Beal and Embiid, they’re friends. Embiid was trying to get him two years ago, which I kept telling people on this podcast. They ended up going with Harden instead, Embiid was pushing hard for Beal. Harden is going to leave.”



Beal has constantly affirmed his commitment to the Wizards, but he’s not going to compete for a ring there, so he might as well realize it and take his talents somewhere else.

Sixers identify another potential James Harden replacement

Sixers identify another potential James Harden replacement - Bolavip US

<div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-rumors-the-star-that-could-help-joel-embiid-at-sixers-next-season-20230612-BUS-9894.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230612_BUS_9894_joel-embiid.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Following another disappointing elimination from the playoffs, the Sixers could pair Joel Embiid with another star.
" title="NBA Rumors: The star that could help Joel Embiid at Sixers next season" publication_id="BUS#20230612#BUS#9894"></div>

 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-rumors-miami-heat-and-realistic-destinations-for-damian-lillard-20230609-BUS-8063.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230609_BUS_8063_damian-lillard-5.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="With Damian Lillard reportedly considering his future with the Portland Trail Blazers, we take a look at his three most realistic destinations.
" title="NBA Rumors: Miami Heat and realistic destinations for Damian Lillard" publication_id="BUS#20230609#BUS#8063"></div>


The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/philadelphia-76ers">Philadelphia 76ers</a> hoped Doc Rivers would lead them to a championship, and they did everything to help the coach. However, not even the trade for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/james-harden">James Harden</a> was enough to change his fate.



Rivers’ poor record at crucial playoff games only got worse this year, with his team blowing a 3-2 lead over the Boston Celtics to once again get eliminated in the Conference Semifinals.



After three straight postseason shortcomings, the team decided to make a coaching change by <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-news-nick-nurse-explains-why-he-chose-joel-embiids-sixers-over-kevin-durants-suns-20230602-BUS-5663.html">hiring Nick Nurse</a>. Rivers recently opened up on his time in Philly, describing his experience of coaching Harden as ‘challenging.’



<h2>Doc Rivers says coaching James Harden was a challenge</h2>



“It was challenging,” Rivers told Bill Simmons on his podcast. “More because we were fighting two things, and not visually fighting. But James was so good at playing one way, and the way I believe you have to play to win in some ways is different because it’s a lot of giving up the ball, moving the ball, and coming back to the ball. I would have loved to have him younger.



“At times, to get him to move and play the way I needed him to play [was challenging], I thought the first half of the year we were the best team in the game. I thought James was playing perfect basketball, he was a point guard on the team, and he was still scoring, but he was doing more playmaking and scoring. And then in the second half he started scoring more, and I thought we got more stagnant at times.”



Many things have been said about Rivers and Harden’s relationship, but the former Sixers coach seems to have no hard feelings. However, it will always be a shame that things didn’t work out on the court.

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Doc Rivers makes painful admission about coaching James Harden at Sixers - Bolavip US

<div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/how-many-nba-championships-have-the-miami-heat-won-20230612-BUS-9694.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230612_BUS_9694_erikspoelstra.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Miami Heat have one of the best head coaches in the league and that has led them to win multiple rings, but decades ago the story was different for them.
" title="How many NBA Championships have the Miami Heat won?" publication_id="BUS#20230612#BUS#9694"></div>

 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-rumors-damian-lillard-and-potential-targets-for-the-miami-heat-20230613-BUS-10169.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230613_BUS_10169_damian-lillard-7.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="With the Miami Heat falling short of an NBA championship again, we take a look at three players they could potentially target next season.
" title="NBA Rumors: Damian Lillard and potential targets for the Miami Heat" publication_id="BUS#20230613#BUS#10169"></div>


The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/miami-heat">Miami Heat</a> went much further than predicted, but they couldn’t stop Nikola Jokic and the Denver Nuggets in the 2023 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba">NBA</a> Finals. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/jimmy-butler">Jimmy Butler</a> and company, however, proved to have what it takes to contend.



Erik Spoelstra‘s team proved it should never be counted out, taking down the likes of the Milwaukee Bucks, New York Knicks, and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/boston-celtics">Boston Celtics</a> after clinching the 8th seed in the Play-In Tournament.



However, to end the season like this still feels bittersweet considering how far they’ve come. While their playoff journey proves they have to look for another star, it looks like the Heat already tried to upgrade their roster at the February deadline.



<h2>Rumor: Heat tried to land Kyrie Irving in February</h2>



“They’re going to explore, see what the star market is like out there,” NBA Insider Shams Charania said on Run It Back of FanDuel TV. “Just to give you a glimpse of what they looked at over the past couple of months, they made an offer to the Nets for Kyrie Irving at the deadline right before he got traded to the Mavericks. 



“But that just gives you an idea that there’s been some level of understanding. They’re trying to get Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo another piece that can take the load off.”



This suggests the Heat already felt they lacked another star around Butler and Bam Adebayo. Kyrie Irving would have been a very interesting addition, but there’s no time to think about the past. This offseason, Pat Riley needs to get another player of his caliber to maximize his team’s championship window.

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NBA Rumors: Heat tried to land an All-Star at the trade deadline to help Jimmy Butler - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/miami-heat" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Miami Heat</a> knocked on the door of an <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> championship but fell short again. They’ve reached the Finals two times since <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/jimmy-butler" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jimmy Butler</a> arrived in South Beach, but he cannot win on his own.



Erik Spoelstra’s team fought hard and overachieved throughout the whole playoffs. Despite their apparent lack of talent and Tyler Herro’s injury, they were the better team on the court more often than not before facing the Denver Nuggets.



The Heat aren’t that far off from winning another championship. That’s why they’ll be quite aggressive in their pursuit of another All-Star caliber player, such as <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/damian-lillard" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Damian Lillard.</a> With that in mind, we’ll talk about him and other potential targets for the Miami Heat.



<h2>NBA Rumors: 3 Targets For The Heat</h2>



<h2>3. Damian Lillard</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="572" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/06/28115435/damian-lillard-1-2-1024x572-1024x572.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-10080" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Damian Lillard — Getty Images</figcaption></figure>



As we already mentioned, Damian Lillard should be an obvious target for Pat Riley and company. In fact, he already admitted that he would love to play there with his friend Bam Adebayo.



The Portland Trail Blazers might not be able to convince him of their chances to win a championship, so they could be forced to let him go in return for a very valuable trade package.



<h2>2. Chris Paul</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="572" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/06/28115434/chris-paul-6-1024x572-1024x572.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-10081" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Chris Paul — Getty Images</figcaption></figure>



Chris Paul is going to be the consolation prize for whoever misses on Damian Lillard and/or Kyrie Irving. That’s just the reality of his future in the league at this point in his career.



He’s no longer much of a scorer and struggles to stay healthy, but he’s still an elite defender and one of the greatest playmakers ever. The Phoenix Suns could still look to keep him, though.



<h2>1. Fred VanVleet</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="572" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/06/28115433/fred-vanvleet-1024x572-1024x572.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-10082" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Fred VanVleet — Getty Images</figcaption></figure>



Fred VanVleet could be a huge difference-maker for any team this offseason. He’s a borderline All-Star player still in his prime, and he plays hard and puts up numbers on both ends of the floor.



VanVleet will opt out of his contract with the Toronto Raptors, and he has already found success subbing in for Kyle Lowry once, so there’s no reason to think he couldn’t do it again in South Beach.

NBA Rumors: Damian Lillard and potential targets for the Miami Heat - Bolavip US

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