<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LeBron James </a>has been the face of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> for the past couple of decades. Of course, he’s shared the spotlight with Carmelo Anthony, Kobe Bryant, Kevin Durant, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/stephen-curry" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stephen Curry</a>, and many more, but he’s always been the most marketable guy.



James’ retirement will hurt the league in many ways, and we’re not talking just about basketball. They’ll lose an icon, and they need to find someone who could fill those shoes.



And controversial as it may seem because of the so many incidents he’s been tangled up with already, Gilbert Arenas believes that <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/Ja-Morant-and-NBA-players-suspended-because-of-guns-20230308-0029.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ja Morant</a> could actually be the next in line.



<h2>Gilbert Arenas Says Ja Morant Could Be LeBron James’ Successor</h2>



“The only person who has the charisma, the style, is the one who’s getting in trouble,” Arenas said on Gil’s Arena. “It’s Ja Morant. He’s the only one with the style of play that will put people their seats. When you’re talking about who’s the face of the league, you’re talking about someone who’s airborne. Dr J., Larr Bird and Magic, then Jordan came, Kobe, LeBron. It has to be someone who can put the people in their seats. To be honest, it is Ja Morant.”



“He has the style, he has the look, it’s just that right now he doesn’t understand who he is and what is asked for him,” Gilbert added. “He might not be mentally ready to take on that challenge. Nobody has even asked him, ‘Do you wanna be the face?’ Coming into the draft, everyone was talking [about] Zion. He inherited this just by the style of his play. So the real question is asking him, ‘Do you actually wanna be the face of this league?&apos;”



<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="Who Becomes The Face of the NBA after Lebron?" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1ub2CaXlQkk?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
</div></figure>



Morant needs to do plenty of soul-searching. He can either be the next face of the league and capitalize on his success, or he can throw everything away with that behavior.

Gilbert Arenas makes shocking prediction about LeBron James' successor

Gilbert Arenas makes shocking prediction about LeBron James' successor - Bolavip US

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Michael Malone and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/denver-nuggets">Denver Nuggets</a> are clear favorites to beat the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/miami-heat">Miami Heat</a> in the 2023 NBA Finals. After an impressive 53-29 record, they were the best team in the Western Conference.



Furthermore, the Nuggets have been unstoppable in the playoffs eliminating the Minnesota Timberwolves and two superstar caliber rosters: the Phoenix Suns and the Los Angeles Lakers.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/michael-malone-slams-lebron-james-and-lakers-again-before-the-nba-finals-20230526-BUS-4230.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230526_BUS_4230_michaelmalone.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Michael Malone is just tired of the Los Angeles Lakers and LeBron James. That&apos;s why he sent another shocking message prior to the NBA Finals. Check out the details. 
" title="Michael Malone slams LeBron James and Lakers again before the NBA Finals" publication_id="BUS#20230526#BUS#4230"></div>


Now, thanks to extraordinary performances by <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nikola-jokic">Nikola Jokic</a>, the Nuggets are ready to hoist their first championship trophy ever in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba">NBA</a>. However, head coach Michael Malone had a huge warning for them.



<h2>Denver Nuggets’ head coach talks about ‘easy series’ against Heat</h2>



The Denver Nuggets will be playing in their first NBA Finals and, although everyone puts them as huge favorites against a No.8 seed, head coach Michael Malone doesn’t believe that’s true. 


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/jimmy-butlers-hilarious-message-for-grant-williams-mocking-the-boston-celtics-20230520-BUS-2604.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230520_BUS_2604_jimmybutler_grantwilliams.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Jimmy Butler sent an incredible message to the Boston Celtics after his altercation with Grant Williams. Read here to check out the details.
" title="Jimmy Butler sends hilarious message to Grant Williams and Celtics" publication_id="BUS#20230520#BUS#2604"></div>

 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/scottie-pippen-says-michael-jordan-was-a-horrible-player-while-praising-lebron-james-20230527-BUS-4285.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230527_BUS_4285_michaeljordan.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="In a shocking turn of events, Scottie Pippen went all-in against Michael Jordan. Read here to check out the details. 
" title="Scottie Pippen destroys Michael Jordan while praising LeBron James" publication_id="BUS#20230527#BUS#4285"></div>


“You get to the NBA Finals and it’s not about seeding anymore. For those who are thinking that this is going to be an easy series, I don’t even know what to say to you people.”



Even with home-field advantage, and after knocking out stars like LeBron James or Kevin Durant, Malone won’t let his players relax at all facing a motivated team such as the Heat. 



“This is going to be the biggest challenge of our lives. This is the NBA Finals. You’re trying to win the first NBA championship in franchise history, and it’s going to be the hardest thing that we’ve ever done, which is the way it should be.”


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/jimmy-butlers-incredible-episode-with-championship-trophy-before-the-2023-nba-finals-20230531-BUS-5173.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230531_BUS_5173_jimmybutler-3.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Jimmy Butler had another &apos;guarantee&apos; episode with a championship trophy just hours before the 2023 NBA Finals. Read here to check out the details. 
" title="NBA Finals 2023: Jimmy Butler makes incredible prediction for Heat against Nuggets" publication_id="BUS#20230531#BUS#5173"></div>


Malone also praised Jimmy Butler ahead of the NBA Finals. “What separates him from most players is the drive, the competitive spirit within him. A relentless attack. We know he’s talented. He’s big, he’s strong, he can get to his spots on the court, but he has the gift of drawing fouls and getting to the free throw line. He’s a big-moment player. He’s not scared. He’s tough. He’s relentless and he’s a warrior.”

Mike Malone talks about 'easy' NBA Finals between Nuggets and Heat

Jimmy Butler sends hilarious message to Grant Williams and Celtics

Scottie Pippen destroys Michael Jordan while praising LeBron James

Mike Malone talks about 'easy' NBA Finals between Nuggets and Heat - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/jimmy-butler">Jimmy Butler</a> and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/miami-heat">Miami Heat</a> are the second No.8 seed ever to reach the NBA Finals. After almost blowing a 3-0 lead against the Celtics, Erik Spoelstra and his players delivered a tremendous performance to win Game 7 on the road. 



The story of the Heat is just amazing in the last few weeks. They lost the first game of the play-in facing the Atlanta Hawks and almost were eliminated by the Chicago Bulls in that same stage. Then, the improbable happened. Miami took down the Milwaukee Bucks, the New York Nicks and the Celtics.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/jimmy-butlers-hilarious-message-for-grant-williams-mocking-the-boston-celtics-20230520-BUS-2604.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230520_BUS_2604_jimmybutler_grantwilliams.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Jimmy Butler sent an incredible message to the Boston Celtics after his altercation with Grant Williams. Read here to check out the details.
" title="Jimmy Butler sends hilarious message to Grant Williams and Celtics" publication_id="BUS#20230520#BUS#2604"></div>


Now, prior to the 2023 NBA Finals against <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nikola-jokic">Nikola Jokic</a> and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/denver-nuggets">Denver Nuggets</a>, Jimmy Butler had an incredible episode with Bam Adebayo. The NBA star has been guaranteeing wins during the playoffs and he’s ready to do it again. Check out the details.



<h2>Jimmy Butler’s prediction for 2023 NBA Finals</h2>



After the Miami Heat won the Eastern Conference Finals against the Boston Celtics, players and coaching staff appeared in the middle of the court to receive the famous Bob Cousy’s trophy.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-admits-incredible-wrong-call-against-lebron-james-and-lakers-in-game-4-vs-nuggets-20230525-BUS-3812.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230525_BUS_3812_lebronjames-2.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="An official report from the NBA confirms a crucial mistake against the Lakers and LeBron James in Game 4 with the Nuggets. Read here to check out the details.
" title="NBA admits wrong call by officials could have cost series to LeBron James and Lakers" publication_id="BUS#20230525#BUS#3812"></div>

 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/record-of-nba-teams-down-3-0-in-the-playoffs-how-many-of-them-forced-a-game-7-20230522-BUS-3139.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230522_BUS_3139_Marcus-Smart-Heat-Celtics-Game-3.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="With both the Eastern and Western Conference Finals in 2023 currently at 3-0, many wonder how NBA teams fared when losing by three in a playoff series.
" title="Record of NBA teams down 3-0 in the playoffs: How many of them forced a Game 7?" publication_id="BUS#20230522#BUS#3139"></div>


During the ceremony, Bam Adebayo asked Jimmy Butler if he wanted to hold that trophy. The superstar declined the offer and, just a few seconds later, the TV broadcast seemed to caught him saying: “I’ll hold the next one.“



In the NBA playoffs, Butler has been constantly guaranteeing Heat’s victories, especially against the Celtics. Prior to Game 7, even with an almost blown 3-0 lead, he smiled and said: “I know that we will do it. We’re gonna go in there and we’re gonna win.” Now, Jimmy has his eyes just on the biggest prize. 


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/jimmy-butler-sends-another-incredible-warning-to-celtics-ahead-of-game-7-20230528-BUS-4625.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230528_BUS_4625_jimmybutler-2.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Even with the Heat in serious trouble, Jimmy Butler had another incredible message for the Boston Celtics. Read here to check out the details. 
" title="Jimmy Butler sends incredible warning to Celtics ahead of Game 7" publication_id="BUS#20230528#BUS#4625"></div>


The 2023 NBA Finals start this Thursday when the Heat visit the Nuggets at Denver. Miami are only the second No.8 seed to reach that stage after the 1998-1999 New York Knicks. They lost the championship series 4-1 against the San Antonio Spurs.

Jimmy Butler's incredible message to Denver Nuggets before the NBA Finals

Jimmy Butler sends incredible warning to Celtics ahead of Game 7

NBA admits wrong call by officials could have cost series to LeBron James and Lakers

Record of NBA teams down 3-0 in the playoffs: How many of them forced a Game 7?

Jimmy Butler's incredible message to Denver Nuggets before the NBA Finals - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers</a> will reportedly be on the market for a new point guard. The D’Angelo Russell experiment didn’t work out in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> playoffs, and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LeBron James</a> isn’t so high on him, according to the latest reports.



There’s a shortage of star-caliber players in this year’s free agency, and the Lakers don’t have that much cap space to make a run at a superstar anyways. Obviously, that severely hampers their ability to make a run at a big-name player.



That, plus the fact that both parties reportedly shook hands on a contract extension months ago, makes it nearly impossible for them to lure <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kyrie-irving" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kyrie Irving</a> away from the Dallas Mavericks.



<h2>Kyrie Irving Already Has An Agreement With The Mavs</h2>



(Transcript via Eric Pinus – Bleacher Report)



“‘I hear they had a handshake deal before the trade [with the Brooklyn Nets],’ one source said. “And Kyrie wouldn’t have said yes to anything less than the max.’



Is Irving worth that price?



‘Maybe to Dallas, he is. I’m not sure what the market is for Kyrie, but no one with cap room is giving it to Kyrie. He comes with too much drama,’ another source said.



Assuming a $134 million salary cap, Irving would be eligible to re-sign with the Mavericks for a five-year, $272 million contract.



‘I hear he’s going back to Dallas on a 3+1 [a player option on the fourth year]. His contract will line up [identically] with Luka’s.’ one player agent said—which would total $210.1 million.”



For now, it seems like the Mavericks are fully invested in this experiment, even though the early returns indicated that it could be a disaster for the next couple of years.



Russell isn’t likely to be back in Los Angeles, regardless of what happens with Kyrie. So, the Lakers might have to dig deep into the market to find their new playmaker.

Kyrie Irving won't join LeBron and the Lakers for a key reason

Kyrie Irving won't join LeBron and the Lakers for a key reason - Bolavip US

For years, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/stephen-curry" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stephen Curry</a>, Klay Thompson, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/draymond-green" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Draymond Green</a>, and even Steve Kerr have gotten most of the credit for the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/golden-state-warriors" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Golden State Warriors’ </a>success, and rightfully so.



However, Bob Myers has been as impactful as the others behind closed doors. He’s been the architect behind the dynasty, and the one who managed to keep it all together for years.



That’s why it was such a bummer for the players and the fans to see him leave. And why he felt the need to explain why he was walking away after four<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> NBA </a>championships with the team.



<h2>Bob Myers Explains Why He Left The Golden State Warriors</h2>



“I have too many different emotions that I’m still processing,” Myers said. “But the bottom line is that this job the one I’m in, requires complete engagement and complete effort. If you can’t do it, then you shouldn’t do it and so that’s the answer.”



“I can’t do that to our players, I can’t do that to Joe,” continued Myers. “I really can’t do it to myself and that’s a question I’ve been wrestling with. I’ve only known how to do things one way my whole life and it doesn’t feel right to do something when I can’t give it my everything.”



“This wasn’t about money. I’ve made plenty of money. I got offered plenty of money,” Myers said.&nbsp;“The bottom line is this job requires complete engagement and complete effort, 1,000 percent. If you can’t do it, then you shouldn’t do it. That’s the answer to the question of why. I can’t do that to our players. I can’t do that to Joe [Lacob].”



<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">Bob Myers said the “answer to the question why” he is leaving the Warriors is because he doesn’t still feel like he can give the full effort/engagement needed for the job. <a href="https://t.co/7QoioOUBwh">pic.twitter.com/7QoioOUBwh</a>— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) <a href="https://twitter.com/anthonyVslater/status/1663638598611238912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 30, 2023</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



It’s just a matter of time before Myers gets plenty of attention from rival teams, but it’s unclear if he’ll take some time off before jumping the gun and joining one of the Warriors’ rivals. Whatever the case, he, too, should have a statue outside of Chase Center.

Bob Myers reveals why he left the Warriors

Bob Myers reveals why he left the Warriors - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/miami-heat" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Miami Heat</a> and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/denver-nuggets" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Denver Nuggets</a> will clash today at Ball Arena in Denver in Game 1 of the 2023 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> Finals. Here you will find out when and how to watch or live stream free this NBA Playoffs game in the US.



<a href="https://www.fubo.tv/lp/StreamTV/stream-espn-disney-abc-online/?v=nbaonespn&amp;irad=950486&amp;irmp=3119684" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow">[Watch Miami Heat vs Denver Nuggets online free in the US on Fubo]</a>



This will be their 73rd overall game. The Denver Nuggets are the favorites in head-to-head clashes, claiming a win in 38 direct duels to this day, while the Miami Heat have celebrated a triumph in 34 matches so far.



Their last meeting took place on Feb 13, 2023, and it ended in a 112-108 win for the Nuggets away. It promises to be an even more exciting clash as they meet for the first time since then, this time for Game 1 of this season’s NBA Finals.



<h2>When will Miami Heat vs Denver Nuggets be played?</h2>



The 2023 NBA Finals Game 1 between Miami Heat and Denver Nuggets will be played on Thursday, June 1, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver.



<h2>Miami Heat vs Denver Nuggets: Time by State in the US</h2>



ET: 8:30 PM CT: 7:30 PM MT: 6:30 PM PT: 5:30 PM



<h2>How to watch Miami Heat vs Denver Nuggets</h2>



The first match to be played between the Miami Heat and Denver Nuggets in the Finals of the NBA 2023 Playoffs, will be broadcast on <a href="https://www.fubo.tv/lp/StreamTV/stream-espn-disney-abc-online/?v=nbaonespn&amp;irad=950486&amp;irmp=3119684" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow">Fubo (Free 7-day Trial)</a> and <a href="https://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-100543762-15484336" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow">DirecTV Stream (5-day free trial)</a> in the United States. Other options include ABC, NBA League Pass.

Watch Miami Heat vs Denver Nuggets online free in the US today: TV Channel and Live Streaming for Game 1

Watch Miami Heat vs Denver Nuggets online free in the US today: TV Channel and Live Streaming for Game 1 - Bolavip US

The moment we’ve been waiting for is here. The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/video-richard-jefferson-predicts-who-could-win-the-2023-nba-finals-20230529-BUS-4877.html">2023 NBA Finals</a> are set, with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/denver-nuggets">Denver Nuggets</a> and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/miami-heat">Miami Heat</a> set to battle it out for the ultimate glory. Of course, there’s nothing more important for the basketball community right now.



There are many storylines heading into this series, which start Thursday in Denver. The biggest one revolves around each team’s strength, with many claiming the Nuggets are favorites after comparing their paths to the Finals.



Miami made the postseason as the 8 seed in the East, having made its way from the Play-In. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nikola-jokic">Nikola Jokic</a> and company, on the other hand, finished 1st in the West and swept the Lakers to make it to this round. Even so, head coach Michael Malone believes his team will still need to bring its A-game to succeed.



<h2>Michael Malone shows utmost respect for the Heat ahead of the Finals</h2>



“Well, as I told our team, forget the eight seed stuff,” Malone said, via AP. “They beat Milwaukee 4-1. That team had the most wins in the NBA this year. They beat Boston 4-3 and they were up 3-0, the team with I think the second most wins in the NBA this year.



“So, you get to the NBA Finals, it’s not about seeding anymore, and for those who are thinking that this is going to be an easy series, I don’t even know what to say to you people.



“This is going to be the biggest challenge of our live. This is the NBA Finals. We’re trying to win the first NBA championship in franchise history, and it’s going to be the hardest thing that we’ve ever done, which is the way it should be.”



The Heat have certainly proven a lot of people wrong this year, so to continue underestimating them could be a huge mistake. But Malone is not doing that, so the Nuggets might be entering this series with the right mindset.

NBA Playoffs: Nuggets coach sends message to Nikola Jokic and company ahead of Finals vs. Heat

NBA Playoffs: Nuggets coach sends message to Nikola Jokic and company ahead of Finals vs. Heat - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/phoenix-suns">Phoenix Suns</a> have work to do after falling short in the 2023 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba">NBA</a> playoffs. New owner Mat Ishbia has big plans for this team, which is why he’s not wasting his time. He wants to win, and he doesn’t want to wait for it.



Since trading for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kevin-durant">Kevin Durant</a> wasn’t enough to win the first championship in franchise history, the team is expected to continue making changes this offseason. But first, it has to find a new coach.



Monty Williams will no longer be at the helm of the team, leaving a huge vacancy in Phoenix. The front office may have already made a shortlist, which reportedly includes two former NBA champions.



<h2>Rumor: Two former NBA champions on the Suns’ radar</h2>



According to John Gambadoro of Arizona Sports 98.7 FM, the Phoenix Suns have narrowed their search for a new head coach to three candidates: Doc Rivers, Frank Vogel, and Kevin Young.



Rivers has just been fired by the Philadelphia 76ers after failing to get the team in the Conference Finals, extending his poor record when it comes to Game 7 of a playoff series. However, he does hold a championship in his résumé, having led the Boston Celtics to the title in 2008.



Vogel, meanwhile, has also been an NBA champion not long ago, when the Los Angeles Lakers went the distance in the 2020 Orlando bubble. The following seasons were quite terrible and they got him fired, but he still has a ring to show off. 



Young, on the other hand, has served as an assistant head coach in Phoenix for the past two seasons. He knows the team in and out, but maybe the Suns go with a coach with championship experience.

NBA Rumors: Suns eye two former champions as coaching candidates

NBA Rumors: Suns eye two former champions as coaching candidates - Bolavip US

New year, same old <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/boston-celtics" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Boston Celtics</a>. Joe Mazzulla’s team failed to get over the hump, falling to a 0-3 hole vs. the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/miami-heat" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Miami Heat, </a>and then missing a chance to make <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> history in Game 7.



The Celtics are as talented and deep as they are inconsistent. Their issues might run deeper and some think they need to break up their elite duo, which is the only thing they have yet to try.



But, considering how unlikely that is at this point, let’s take a look at three low-key players they should trade for or look to sign to try and give Jaylen Brown and Jayson<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/jayson-tatum" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Tatum</a> a helping hand.



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



<h3>3. Chris Boucher</h3>



<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/10/2023/05/28121053/CHRIS-BOUCHER-1024x572-1024x572.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-4977" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Chris Boucher – Getty Images</figcaption></figure>



Chris Boucher fell in and out of Nick Nurse’s rotation in the Toronto Raptors, but his skill set perfectly fits the Celtics’ system. Basically, he won’t hurt their offense or their defense.



Boucher is a solid rim protector and rebounder, just like Robert Williams III. However, he’s healthier, and he can also step up to the perimeter to knock down shots, unlike his colleague.



<h3>2. Doug McDermott</h3>



<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/10/2023/05/28121054/DOUG-MCDERMOTT-1024x572-1024x572.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-4976" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Doug McDermott – Getty Images</figcaption></figure>



Perhaps, this story would’ve been different with a healthy Danilo Gallinari. But you just cannot bank your hopes on Gallinari ever being healthy, so they should look at a lite version of him.



Doug McDermott isn’t much of a defender, but he sure can shoot the basketball. He’d give them another floor-spacer, a guy who can score at both forward spots, and another potential offensive mismatch.



<h3>1. Jalen McDaniels</h3>



<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/10/2023/05/28121052/JALEN-MCDANIELS-1024x572-1024x572.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-4978" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Jalen McDaniels – Getty Images</figcaption></figure>



We can all agree that the Boston Celtics don’t need to add a lot of pieces to be a legit contender. With that in mind, they could look to steal one of the most underrated players from the Philadelphia 76ers.



Jalen McDaniels would give Joe Mazzulla plenty of positional versatility, and a plus-defender at multiple spots. He can also knock down the occasional three, and he should be available at a reasonable price.

NBA Rumors: Potential targets for the Boston Celtics

NBA Rumors: Potential targets for the Boston Celtics - Bolavip US

It’s the dawn of a new era for the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/philadelphia-76ers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Philadelphia 76ers. </a>They will no longer be held hostage by <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/Former-Clippers-star-blames-Doc-Rivers-for-never-winning-a-ring-20230421-0016.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Doc Rivers</a>, and Nick Nurse might as well be the breath of fresh air they need to pursue an <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> championship.



Nurse was one of the main guys and best coaches available out there right now, and they had to face some steep competition to land him. But he was also eager to arrive at the City of Brotherly Love.



According to a report by ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, Nurse actually chose the Sixers over<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kevin-durant" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Kevin Durant’s</a> Phoenix Suns because he wanted to coach reigning MVP Joel Embiid.



<h2>Nick Nurse Wanted To Coach Joel Embiid</h2>



“The Sixers and Phoenix Suns were engaged with Nurse and his agent, Andy Miller of Klutch Sports, throughout Sunday and Monday, leaving Nurse with a difficult decision between two contending teams, sources said,“ Wojnarowski reported.



“Nurse’s desire to coach MVP Joel Embiid and his history with Sixers president of basketball operations Daryl Morey played a significant part in his decision to commit to a deal with Philadelphia, sources said. Nurse separated himself in the interview process, selling a vision for the Sixers centered on Embiid,” Woj continued.



“Embiid will be the first player to win the MVP and start the next season on the same team with a new coach since the Lakers’ Magic Johnson in 1990-91,” concluded the report.



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<div class="ck-youtube"><iframe loading="lazy" title="Breaking: Nick Nurse to become Philadelphia 76ers next head coach | NBA Today" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/vkLaY_SxYKQ?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
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It’s not every day that a coach chooses you over Kevin Durant, so Embiid should be quite excited about everything Nurse might be planning for him. Hopefully, he’ll manage to stay healthy and live up to those expectations.



It’s been quite a while since the Sixers made it to the Eastern Conference Finals, let alone the NBA Finals, and the narrative around Embiid has drastically shifted after a subpar postseason run.

Nick Nurse's shocking reason to choose the Sixers over the Suns

Nick Nurse's shocking reason to choose the Sixers over the Suns - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Laker</a>s fell short of their goal. Despite being one of the best teams in the second half of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> season, Anthony Davis’ offensive shortcomings, LeBron James’ age, and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/denver-nuggets" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Denver Nuggets’</a> great play sent them back home.



Notably, the team isn’t too far off from being a legit NBA championship contender. But it’s evident that they badly need an upgrade at the point guard position.



And with all then rumors about<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> LeBron James</a> not being much of a fan of D’Angelo Russell, a report by Heavy Sports recently confirmed that he’s pushing for his team to replace him with Kyrie Irving.



<h2>LeBron James Wants The Lakers To Replace D’Angelo Russell With Kyrie Irving</h2>



However, the report also states that the Dallas Mavericks have no interest or incentive whatsoever in helping Kyrie or the Lakers with a sign-and-trade unless Austin Reaves and/or Anthony Davis become available:



(Transcript via Heavy)



“‘While we await a clear indication about the Lakers’ intentions [regarding free agency], with no verifiable signal to date that pursuing Irving is among their offseason priorities, league sources say that the Mavericks would have no interest in a sign-and-trade with the Lakers that features D’Angelo Russell as the primary Dallas-bound player,‘ [Marc] Stein wrote. ‘All indications are that the Mavericks remain intent on re-signing Irving.



LeBron James wants the Lakers to replace Russell with Irving, sources told Heavy Sports. However, Los Angeles doesn’t have the cap space to sign Irving, who is looking for a max contract.”


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/lebron-james-doesnt-want-a-lakers-player-back-next-season-20230525-BUS-3755.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230525_BUS_3755_lebron-james-7.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Following a disappointing postseason, LeBron James might not be high on one of his teammates as he enters free agency.
" title="LeBron James doesn&apos;t want a Lakers player back next season" publication_id="BUS#20230525#BUS#3755"></div>


Truth be told, it doesn’t seem like the Lakers can pull this off unless Kyrie somehow accepts to take a massive paycut, so Rob Pelinka might have to look somewhere else for his new point guard, as Russell simply isn’t likely to be a part of the team going forward.

LeBron James has made a decision about Kyrie Irving and the Lakers

LeBron James has made a decision about Kyrie Irving and the Lakers - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers">Los Angeles Lakers</a> have made a significant improvement this season. The trade deadline was a huge turning point for a team that went from being out of Play-In spots to making the Conference Finals.



However, the purple and gold were unable to compete against Nikola Jokic and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/denver-nuggets">Denver Nuggets</a>, who swept them to punch a ticket to the next round. Now, it’s time for Rob Pelinka to do whatever it takes to make this team even better.



One of the biggest storylines heading into the offseason is the potential pursuit of a new point guard, considering D’Angelo Russell‘s decline in the playoffs. Unfortunately, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james">LeBron James</a> and company may have to cross a name off their list.



<h2>Rumor: Mavs may not be interested in deal that sends Kyrie Irving to LA</h2>



According to NBA insider Marc Stein, the Dallas Mavericks have no interest in a sign-and-trade deal involving Russell and Kyrie Irving, since they’d want to bring the latter back next season:



“A popular topic all week, in the wake of Denver sweeping the Lakers out of the Western Conference finals, was the notion that L.A. could emerge as a potential sign-and-trade destination for Dallas’ free agent-to-be Kyrie Irving.



While we await a clear indication about the Lakers’ intentions there, with no verifiable signal to date that pursuing Irving is among their offseason priorities, league sources say that the Mavericks would have no interest in a sign-and-trade with the Lakers that features D’Angelo Russell as the primary Dallas-bound player. All indications are that the Mavericks remain intent on re-signing Irving.”



Irving has been in Dallas for just a few months, so even if it didn’t go according to plan so far, it makes sense the team wants to run things back. Therefore, the Lakers may have to explore alternatives.

NBA Rumors: LeBron James, Lakers could receive bad news soon

NBA Rumors: LeBron James, Lakers could receive bad news soon - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/golden-state-warriors">Golden State Warriors</a> took many steps back this season. Only a year ago, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/stephen-curry">Stephen Curry</a> and company were celebrating another <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba">NBA</a> championship. This time, they’re heading into the offseason with many question marks.



While they have decisions to make on the future of young players who failed to perform in the postseason, the Dubs also have to keep an eye on the potential departure of pivotal members of their last championship runs.



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/draymond-green">Draymond Green</a> becomes a free agent in 2024, which is why he’ll be a player to watch in the next few months. But the Warriors could lose a key member of the organization who doesn’t take the court.



<h2>Rumor: Bob Myers set to leave Warriors</h2>



(Via Sports Illustrated)



“It’s believed that Myers doesn’t want to sit down at an interview podium until his decision about staying with the Warriors or walking away from his post is both made and ready to be shared with the public,” Stein wrote via his Substack. “We could have clarity as early as Tuesday or Wednesday, since Myers is expected to convene soon with Bay Area reporters who regularly cover the team. 



“My prediction as of the weekend: I think this is it. I sense Myers is poised to walk away from the lucrative offer Warriors owner Joe Lacob has put on the table. As we’ve covered in multiple recent pieces: Myers wouldn’t be exiting over money. It’s because he wants a break.”



Bob Myers has been instrumental in the Warriors’ return to glory days in the last decade. He was the brain behind the competitive rosters Golden State has had year after year, so his exit would definitely mark the end of an era. Even if the Dubs still find ways to succeed, it won’t be the same without Myers as GM.

It's not Draymond Green: Warriors could lose a key member soon

It's not Draymond Green: Warriors could lose a key member soon - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/ringless-best-nba-players-that-have-never-won-a-ring-20210625-0009.html">Richard Jefferson</a> is a veteran who knows the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-finals-all-nba-champions-by-year-20210701-0003.html">NBA </a>inside out, he played 18 seasons and won NBA Championship titles with the<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-finals-history-by-year-complete-list-of-all-nba-finals-championship-games-20220601-0041.html"> Cleveland Cavaliers.</a>



It is still early to say who will win the NBA Finals since they have not even started on May 29, 2023 and anything could happen.



The Nuggets are waiting for the series between the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-finals-who-won-the-first-ever-nba-championship-20220607-0033.html">Celtics and Miami Heat</a> to end, even though the Heat started the series as favorites they will now have to play in a seventh game against Boston.



<h2>What is Richard Jefferson’s prediction for the 2023 NBA Finals?</h2>



Jefferson chose the Denver Nuggets as his favorite to win the NBA Championship, he said that the Nuggets have a solid and strong roster compared to the Miami Heat and Boston Celtics.



<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">.<a href="https://twitter.com/Rjeff24?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Rjeff24</a> says the Nuggets will win the NBA Finals no matter their opponent: "Denver is by far the best, most consistent, and have the most dominant player, maybe in the league, but definitely the most dominant player left in this playoffs." <a href="https://t.co/UhbO0ilrbs">pic.twitter.com/UhbO0ilrbs</a>— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/ESPNNBA/status/1663286202110189568?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 29, 2023</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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He played for the Denver Nuggets during his last season in the NBA from 2017 to 2018, but he never played a playoff game with them, his last postseason game was with the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2017.

Video: Richard Jefferson predicts who could win the 2023 NBA Finals

Video: Richard Jefferson predicts who could win the 2023 NBA Finals - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA </a>scouts and analysts can’t stop raving about <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/Victor-Wembanyama-profile-Age-height-weight-team-and-nationality-20230421-0031.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Victor Wembanyama</a>. The French big man out of Metropolitans is highly expected to be the No. 1 pick by the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/san-antonio-spurs" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">San Antonio Spurs,</a> and some believe he’ll be a generational talent.



Wembanyama isn’t like the average big man. He can be an interior presence because of his length and shot-blocking, but he’s not a heavy-footed, low-post kind of guy.



However, even though he wasn’t high on him at first because of his rather lanky physique, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/shaq-isnt-sold-on-victor-wembanyama-20230518-BUS-1942.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Shaquille O’Neal</a> now seems to think that Wembanyama could still dominate as a modern-day big.



<h2>Shaquille O’Neal Takes A Shot At Joel Embiid, Says Victor Wembanyama Will Do Fine</h2>



“If this was our era and [people were] banging, he’d be, he’d be, you know, chicken noodle soup,” Shaq said on The Ric Eisen Show. “Like, I’m watching how these guys play now, you know, especially like, you know, Joel Embiid. He’s 6-11, he’s not posting up. He’s shooting jumpers, and then you’ve got the nerve to say, you got the nerve to say, ‘Me and James [Harden] can’t do it by ourselves’?”



“Yeah, cause get your big a** down in the paint. If you get your big a** down in the paint, you can do it by yourself,” Shaq continued. “But that’s not how people play anymore, so this kid will be fine, and I wish him well.”



“He’s a pick-and-pop guy. He can shoot pretty good. He’s like a seven-foot-four Kevin Durant, so I think he can acclimate very, very quickly,” Shaq explained. “And he’s with the master. Like, having a kid like that go to ‘The System?’ That’s what I call the Spurs, ‘The System.’ Having a kid like that go to ‘The System,’ I think people better watch out.”



<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="“Watch Out” - Shaquille O’Neal Predicts Big Things for Victor Wembanyama | The Rich Eisen Show" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/7G_gRTP4mZ0?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
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Wembanyama is a unique talent, and some believe he’s got GOAT potential, and watching Shaq praising him pretty much tells us everything we need to know about him.

NBA legend changes his mind on Victor Wembanyama

NBA legend changes his mind on Victor Wembanyama - Bolavip US

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