According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, general manager Nico Harrison was forced to do the behind closed doors press conference to talk about the Luka Doncic trade and the future of the team.

Owner Patrick Dumont essentially forced Harrison to do it, in fact, he enforced it. Not only was it closed off to the public, but Dumont made sure they couldn’t record the conversation. However, he permitted select reporters to publish the transcripts of the conversation.

“My understanding is Nico Harrison didn’t want to do this closed door roundtable,” said Shams Charania. “This was not his idea. This was something that was enforced by their owner Patrick Dumont.”

The Dallas Mavericks continue to try to do damage control even months after trading the most beloved player in organization history since Dirk Nowitzki.

According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, a day before the NBA postseason begins, the Los Angeles Lakers have taken care of business and have signed general manager Rob Pelinka to a new contract extension.

However, beyond just operating the front office, he will assume the role of president of basketball operations. A huge promotion after hiring head coach JJ Redick and landing acclaimed superstar Luka Doncic in the same season.

“For eight seasons, I have relied on Rob’s vision and leadership to do what’s best for the Lakers organization,” said Lakers Governor Jeanie Buss. “I value his partnership and professionalism and believe in his ability to deliver championship-caliber basketball for Los Angeles and Lakers fans everywhere.”  

Pelinka has been with the Los Angeles organization since 2017, the same year they hired Magic Johnson. When Magic left in 2019, Pelinka assumed all responsibility of being the top decision-maker.

At this time, it is unclear how long the extension was signed for.

Tremendous news came out featuring Damian Lillard and his current blood clot situation, and that is the fact he has been cleared of his deep vein thrombosis (DVT for short).

While he cannot play in Game 1 against the Indiana Pacers, the talented veteran can resume contact workouts and begin ramping himself up for games in the future.

According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, Lillard is no longer required to take blood-thinning medication. In just over three weeks, Lillard has been able to be medically cleared. This development is something doctors never have seen before.

The medical professionals told Milwaukee that this was due to early treatment, detection of the issue, and having specialists being able to treat Lillard even before a formal diagnosis.

The Bucks first round matchup is against the Pacers, which will be an exciting series. Their contest begins Saturday.