NBA Draft Rumors Heat Up, World Cup Underway

Good morning all.

There is now less than a week until the NBA draft, which will take place on Thursday, June 21st. That means rumors are starting to fly fast which is always fun, though many of them turn out to be misinformation.

NBA Draft Notes

A big story yesterday was that the Memphis Grizzlies are shopping the 4th pick in an attempt to move Chandler Parsons and his 2 years, $49M. Of course that led to discussion of Andrew Wiggins being the return piece to Memphis. It’s entirely unclear whether the Grizzlies would be interested in such a deal, but I would certainly jump on that opportunity to move Wiggins’ contract and grab a high upside youngster in the bargain.

Michael Porter Jr. is meeting teams in Chicago today, presumably to reassure them about his health. Rumors are he could go as high as second to the Kings.

The Nets appear active, showing willingness to take on a contract in exchange for a pick. Ideas floated have included Kenneth Faried and 14 from Denver or even 11 and Dwight Howard from Orlando Charlotte, with the Nets sending back 29 and other things (including Spencer Dinwiddie.)

As usual, nothing new from the Wolves. Their spot in the draft will leave them with a bunch of options among wings with varying strengths and weaknesses. It’s really all in the eye of the beholder with these guys, as they are all over various boards and rankings. Jacob Evans or Josh Okogie? Kevin Huerter or Chad Hutchinson? Khyri Thomas? Shake Milton? Keita Bates-Diop? Donte DiVincenzo? De’Anthony Melton? They all have their fans and detractors, and in truth I’m having all kinds of trouble sorting through them and figuring out who the best are.

Currently in their mocks for the Wolves:

ESPN/DE: Donte DiVincenzo
The Ringer: Keita Bates-Diop
The Sporting News: Bates-Diop
CBS: DiVincenzo
Sports Illustrated: DiVincenzo

Still, the sense here is this is just darts at a board at this point; I don’t think anyone knows what the Wolves’ plan is.

The World Cup

This is all small beer since the World Cup has started. Russia routed a horrific Saudi Arabia side 5-0 yesterday in the tournament opener.

Currently I am watching Mo Salah’s Egypt without Salah, who is on bench injured, against Uruguay, with Morocco-Iran and a tasty Portugal (Ronaldo!)-Spain matchup coming up later.

This is always fun to immerse yourself in, though the soccer is nowhere near the best. Still, it’s a tournament of stars and iconic moments, and an incredible spectacle.

Of course, the U.S. failed to qualify for this Cup in embarrassing fashion, but fear not, as they were chosen (along with Canada and Mexico) to host the 2026 edition of the tournament.

This is an open thread for chatting about whatever grabs you. Have a great weekend.