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Playoff exit casts doubt over J.B. Bickerstaff's future with Cavs

Thu May 16 11:35am ET
Field Level Media

Cavaliers coach J.B. Bickerstaff is not guaranteed a return to Cleveland despite his team advancing to the Eastern Conference semifinals.

According to multiple reports, Bickerstaff and his assistant coaches are still being evaluated and not promised they'll be back with the Cavs next season.

Back-to-back playoff appearances and a first-round series win over the Orlando Magic in seven games are all working in Bickerstaff's favor. He said Cleveland is where he hopes to be going forward.

Asked after the season-ending loss at Boston on Wednesday if he expects to coach the Cavaliers next season, Bickerstaff didn't blink.


"I mean, no one's told me I'm not. So, I'll keep showing up 'til they tell me not to," he said.

Bickerstaff, 45, has a 170-159 record in four-plus seasons with the Cavaliers. His playoff record in Cleveland is 6-11.

There are roster decisions to be made before the end of June. The pendulum could swing on the decision of All-Star Donovan Mitchell, who has one season left on his contract and a player option for 2025-26. He's eligible to sign a four-year deal worth more than $200 million this offseason if he opts to commit to staying in Cleveland.

Mitchell, 27, averaged 26.6 points, 6.1 assists and 5.1 rebounds per game in the regular season. He didn't play in Game 4 or Game 5 of the playoff series against the Celtics because of a calf injury.

"We've got good individual players, we have high-character players that are concerned about winning," Bickerstaff said of keeping Mitchell. "And anytime you have that, you're gonna give yourself an opportunity. I would love to see what we look like when we're whole for an entire season, what pressure we can put on the league from that standpoint."

Player Notes
Mitchell Robinson Fri Jun 21 9:50pm

According to Jake Fischer of Yahoo.com, New York Knicks center Mitchell Robinson could be traded this offseason. Per Fischer, the Knicks "have contacted opposing teams about moving Mitchell." However, specific clubs weren't mentioned. The 2018 No. 36 overall pick has averaged 8.0 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks in six seasons in New York. Yet, he has missed time over the years because of various ailments. With that said, Mitchell's defensive prowess should make him an attractive asset for category participants. But his inability to stay on the floor is an issue.

Brook Lopez Fri Jun 21 9:40pm

Milwaukee Bucks center Brook Lopez could find himself on a new team for the 2024-25 campaign. While it's unknown if the Bucks have engaged in official trade discussions with other clubs around the National Basketball Association, Jake Fischer of Yahoo.com reported that Milwaukee is "open to reshaping their roster" and is "gauging" Lopez's value. Despite his age, the 36-year-old is still productive, finishing his most recent season by averaging 12.5 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks while shooting 36.6% from behind the arc. He's also appeared in 157 games in the last two seasons. Without question, Lopez will draw attention from teams looking for an upgrade underneath the rim. But regardless of where he ends up moving ahead, he could have at least one more quality season for fantasy managers.

Paul George Fri Jun 21 7:10pm

According to Shams Charania of The Athletic, the Philadelphia 76ers interest in Los Angeles Clippers forward Paul George has "waned in recent days." The 34-year-old, who can decline his player option to become an unrestricted free agent, was reportedly high on Philadelphia's wish list this offseason. While there's still a chance that both sides re-engage in discussions this summer, for now, the 76ers may look for alternatives on the open market. George averaged 22.6 points, 5.2 rebounds, 3.5 assists, and 1.5 steals last season. Even better, he appeared in 74 contests. Although his production has declined over the years, he's still a top fantasy option in all formats. That may not change for at least a few more seasons, regardless if he re-signs a massive extension with the Clippers or goes elsewhere.

Drew Eubanks Fri Jun 21 7:00pm

Forward/center Drew Eubanks will decline his $2.6 million player option with the Phoenix Suns, meaning he'll be an unrestricted free agent. The 27-year-old appeared in 75 games for the Suns last season. However, he averaged 5.1 points and 4.3 rebounds, his lowest marks in the previous few seasons. Eubanks also saw only 15 minutes per contest during the 2023-24 campaign. Yet, he'll have double-double upside if he can find minutes on a new team.

Malik Monk Fri Jun 21 6:50pm

According to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, Sacramento Kings guard Malik Monk (knee) plans to sign a four-year, $78 million contract to remain with the team. The 26-year-old was in the running to win the Sixth Man of the Year award, averaging career-highs in points (15.4) and assists (5.1). Unfortunately, he suffered a knee injury near the end of the season and was limited to 72 games. Monk had logged 26.0 minutes per contest during the 2023-24 campaign. He should continue to see the floor as much, if not more, this season, so he'll have plenty of value for fantasy managers.

Alex Caruso Thu Jun 20 5:40pm

According to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, OKC acquired guard Alex Caruso from Chicago in exchange for Josh Giddey. With Plenty of scorers on the Thunder's roster, the team needed to focus on upgrading things on the defensive end. Caruso obviously fits the bill, considering he is widely regarded as one of the best defenders in the National Basketball Association. The 30-year-old finished the 2023-24 campaign by averaging a career-high 10.1 points, adding 3.8 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 1.7 steals, and 1.0 blocks. Although Caruso's scoring numbers could drop on a team that features Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, he should continue to make a difference for category managers due to his defensive prowess.

Josh Giddey Thu Jun 20 5:30pm

According to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, the Bulls acquired guard Josh Giddey from OKC. In exchange, the Thunder received guard Alex Caruso. Chicago was expected to be active this offseason to bolster the roster. With Lonzo Ball (knee) still without a return timetable, the move was made to acquire a playmaker. Giddey just completed his third year of service in the National Basketball Association. However, he averaged career-lows in points (12.3), rebounds (6.4), and assists (4.8) while averaging only 25.2 minutes per contest. Without question, the door is open for the 21-year-old to see more scoring opportunities with the Bulls, so it's logical to assume he'll turn things around during the 2024-25 campaign. His statistical contributions could be greater if Chicago can't bring back DeMar DeRozan, who is set to hit unrestricted free agency this summer.

Pascal Siakam Thu Jun 20 11:10am

ESPN Senior NBA Insider Adrian Wojnarowski has reported that Pascal Siakam plans to sign a new maximum deal with the Indiana Pacers, worth $189.5 million over four years. The All-NBA forward is expected to sign the new contract once the league's free agency moratorium ends on July 6. After a mid-season trade from the Toronto Raptors, Siakam became a major part of Indiana's success, helping lead the team to the Eastern Conference Finals. In 41 regular season games with the Pacers, the 30-year-old averaged 21.3 points per game while shooting 55% from the field in 41 regular-season.

Gary Payton II Thu Jun 20 11:10am

ESPN NBA reporter Kendra Andrews has reported that point Gary Payton II has chosen to remain in Golden State with the Warriors after opting into his $9.1 million player option for next year. The 31-year-old guard averaged 5.5 points and 2.6 rebounds while shooting 56.3% from the field this past season. However, his health remains a concern. Payton only played in 44 games as several injuries forced him to be sidelined. He missed games in November and December with a calf strain, and then a hamstring strain cost him time in January and February. The Warriors hope to get more production from Payton moving forward.

LeBron James Thu Jun 20 11:10am

According to Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James' agent, Rich Paul, his client won't suit up for the Suns this season on a minimum contract. Speculation began to swirl about the possibility of James playing in Phoenix after his son, Bronny James, worked out for the club. However, it appears even if the Suns select the 19-year-old in the 2024 NBA Draft, it won't be enough to coax his father into joining Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal. Without question, the multi-time All-Star is nearing the end of his career. Yet, despite injuries, he's still productive, finishing the 2023-24 campaign by averaging 25.7 points, 8.3 assists, 7.3 rebounds, and 1.3 steals while shooting a career-high 41.0% from deep. At any rate, James still needs to decline his $51.4 million player option to enter unrestricted free agency, with his decision expected to come soon.

Bruce Brown Thu Jun 20 11:10am

According to NBA insider Marc Stein, the Toronto Raptors are expected to pick up the team option of guard/forward Bruce Brown. The 27-year-old won an NBA championship with the Nuggets in 2022-23. However, after signing with the Indiana Pacers, he was dealt to Toronto ahead of the 2023-24 trade deadline. He appeared in 34 games for the Raptors, although his statistical contributions declined, averaging 9.6 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 2.7 assists. Nonetheless, the Raptors could end up trading him at some point during the 2024-25 campaign, potentially increasing his production.

Al Horford Wed Jun 19 2:30pm

Boston Celtics forward/centerAl Horfordwill be returning for his 18th NBA season next year. Celtics owner Wyc Grousbeck was on The Greg Hill Show on WEEI, a local Boston radio station, and said, "Al is coming back for next year. That's what I've been told." At 38 years old, Horford won his first NBA championship on Monday as the Celtics defeated the Mavs 106-88. He's suited up for 186 postseason contests and averaged 33.8 minutes, 12.2 points, 8.0 rebounds, 3.3 assists, and 1.2 blocks in his career.

Pascal Siakam Wed Jun 19 2:30pm

According to Scott Agness of Fieldhouse Files, Indiana Pacers forward/centerPascal Siakam is close to signing a long-term contract extension with the team. Siakam had a solid first season as a Pacer and should receive a maximum deal. The All-Star forward compiled averages of 21.3 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 3.7 assists in 41 regular-season contests with the Pacers. In January, he was traded from Toronto for Bruce Brown,Jordan Nwora and three first-round picks.

OG Anunoby Wed Jun 19 2:30pm

New York Knicks forward OG Anunoby might end up elsewhere this offseason. Per ESPN's Brian Windhorst, there have been "indications" that Anunoby may want to test the market as a free agent because he is "not thrilled" with what the Knicks are offering. Reports suggest that Anunoby could land a contract worth $35-40 million per year in free agency. Anunoby was a very good fit with the Knicks after arriving from Toronto on Dec. 30. He averaged 14.1 points, 4.4 rebounds, 1.7 steals, and 1.0 blocks with the team. The Knicks had a fantastic 20-3 regular-season record with him in the lineup.

Bojan Bogdanovic Wed Jun 19 2:30pm

New York Knicks forward Bojan Bogdanovic is set to become a trade piece. According to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, the Knicks are expected to guarantee Bogdanovic's contract for 2024-25, which would make him a trade candidate for the final season of his deal. Bogdanovic has a $19 million deal in place for next season, but only $2 million of it is guaranteed. The Croatian veteran moved to New York in February in a trade with the Detroit Pistons, averaging 10.4 points and 2.0 rebounds in 19.2 minutes off the bench. He was a good bench piece for the team, but the Knicks could be looking to use his contract in a trade for a star player.

Patty Mills Wed Jun 19 2:30pm

Miami Heat point guard Patty Mills wants to continue his playing career. Mills will turn 36 in August but is eager to remain in the NBA after splitting the 2023-24 campaign between Atlanta and Miami. "I take really good care of myself and my body and the plan is to continue to play until the wheels fall off is how I see it," Mills told Ira Winderman of The South Florida Sun-Sentinel. Mills, who won the NBA championship with San Antonio in 2014, has mostly been used as a veteran presence on teams in recent seasons. He was limited to 13.0 minutes and 4.0 points in 32 appearances in 2023-24.

Klay Thompson Tue Jun 18 2:20pm

According to Shams Charania of The Athletic, impending free-agent guard Klay Thompson is open to all "external options" in free agency this summer. The Warriors want him back. However, it remains to be seen how much Golden State is willing to bid for his services. But considering teams like the Orlando Magic could make Thompson a lucrative offer, his future with the Warriors is all but guaranteed. The 34-year-old averaged 17.9 points last season, his fewest since the 2012-13 campaign. He also started in just 63 of his 77 appearances after getting pulled briefly from the first five during the year. While Thompson's production is frustrating for fantasy managers, he could benefit from a change of scenery, especially if he remains in the starting lineup.

Jaylen Brown Tue Jun 18 2:20pm

Boston Celtics guard/forward Jaylen Brown was named the 2024 Bill Russell NBA Finals MVP after the team closed out Dallas with a 106-86 victory on Monday. Brown, who was also voted the Eastern Conference Finals MVP during Boston's successful playoff campaign, had 21 points, eight rebounds, six assists, and two steals in the title-clincher. He averaged 20.8 points in the Finals with 5.4 rebounds, 5.0 assists and 1.6 steals. The 27-year-old is the seventh Celtics player to be named the Finals MVP, the first since Paul Pierce in 2008. Brown has just entered his prime and should remain a valuable fantasy piece for a long time.

Jayson Tatum Tue Jun 18 2:20pm

Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum closed out the 2024 NBA Finals in style, going close to a 30-point triple-double in Monday's title-clincher against Dallas. He led all scorers with 31 points and registered eight rebounds and 11 assists with two steals. The Boston star had two 30-point efforts in the five-game series and ended up as the team leader in points, rebounds, and assists. However, the 2024 Finals MVP award went to Tatum's partner in crime, Jaylen Brown. Tatum's scoring numbers dropped in 2023-24, but he recorded a career-high 4.9 assists and had another good fantasy year overall.

Kristaps Porzingis Tue Jun 18 2:20pm

Boston Celtics forward/center Kristaps Porzingis (leg) returned to the court in Game 5 of the 2024 NBA Finals against Dallas on Monday. Despite carrying a leg injury, he contributed six points in 16 minutes off the bench as the team earned banner No. 18 with a 106-88 win. Porzingis, who became the first Latvia native to win an NBA championship, has been diagnosed with a torn medial retinaculum, allowing dislocation of the posterior tibialis tendon. The 28-year-old told ESPN that he will require surgery and have a recovery process of a "few months." Porzingis had another injury-riddled campaign in 2023-24, and his health status is definitely something fantasy managers must consider when planning for the new season.