A Night for the History Books

Tonight could be legendary, as two iconic sports families cross paths. More than 30 years after Ken Griffey Sr. and Jr. became the first father-son duo to play together in MLB history, they’ll be at the Lakers vs. Timberwolves season opener, watching to see if LeBron James and Bronny James can become the first father-son pair to play together in the NBA.

For context, the Griffeys suited up together for the Seattle Mariners in 1990 and 1991, even hitting back-to-back home runs in one of baseball’s coolest moments.

As for LeBron and Bronny they teamed up briefly in the preseason, but fans are still waiting to see that magical father-son assist connection in a regular-season game.

Celtics' Joe Mazzulla Feels Zero Pressure to Repeat

The Boston Celtics tip off their title defense tonight against the New York Knicks, but if you think they’re sweating it, think again. Head coach Joe Mazzulla is staying as cool as ever.

The Celtics had a dominant run last season, finishing with the best record in the East by 14 games and cruising through the playoffs with a 16-3 record. With stars Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown leading the way, and their core roster intact, the Celtics are expected to contend for another championship.

It’s clear, the Celtics are locked in, but they’re not letting the weight of the past, or future, mess with their vibe.

NBA Contract Extensions

The NBA’s rookie extension deadline was like an early Christmas for the 2021 class, with seven first-rounders inking new deals. Here’s the rundown: Alperen Sengun, Jalen Green, Jalen Suggs, Jalen Johnson, Trey Murphy, Moses Moody, and Corey Kispert all secured sub-max deals, joining Scottie Barnes, Evan Mobley, Franz Wagner, and Cade Cunningham, who snagged their max contracts earlier.

Jalen Green’s Bet on Himself

Jalen Green’s deal in Houston is turning heads, a three-year, $106 million contract with a player option after year two. This isn’t just any deal, it’s a chance for Green to prove he’s more than just flashes of greatness. In February and March, he averaged 29.2 points, but those numbers dipped later in the season.

If Green can find consistency and efficiency, he might position himself for a max contract after 2026-27. If not, the Rockets will have avoided a long-term commitment, keeping their flexibility intact.

Rockets' Long-Term Investment

Alperen Sengun nearly hit the jackpot, locking in five years and $185 million with the Rockets. This deal might raise a few eyebrows since it eats into Houston’s potential cap space for next summer, but it’s clear the Rockets weren’t going to take any chances.

Sengun left some cash on the table, about $40 million, to be precise. But hey, that’s the price of avoiding future what-ifs. If he hits an All-NBA level, Houston’s gamble will look even smarter.

Atlanta’s Next Big Thing

The Hawks didn’t just lose Dejounte Murray this offseason, they doubled down on Jalen Johnson’s potential with a five-year, $150 million extension. Johnson, a breakout candidate last season, now becomes Trae Young’s new sidekick. This deal gives Atlanta some cap relief, avoiding a massive payout next summer if Johnson continues to shine.

Injuries limited Johnson to 56 games last season, so the extension offers him some security. Now, he’s got the chance to post career numbers as the No. 2 option. It’s a win-win for both sides, unless, of course, Johnson starts playing like an All-NBA guy... then Atlanta might wish they’d waited.

The Quiet Star Gets His Due

Trey Murphy III has earned a four-year, $112 million extension from the New Orleans Pelicans. Murphy’s second half of last season was impressive, putting up 18.1 points per game while shooting a ridiculous 66.1% true shooting in his last 24 games.

Despite starting the season on the injured list due to a hamstring strain, Murphy’s role is bound to grow. With the Pelicans’ stars intact, it might take some juggling, but Murphy’s contract says he’s worth the wait.

Jalen Suggs Locking Down in Orlando

The Magic are betting on Jalen Suggs, and it’s a hefty one. Suggs just secured a five-year, $150.5 million deal after finally breaking out last season. Known for his defense since Day 1, Suggs surprised everyone by shooting nearly 40% from deep on 5.1 attempts per game.

While Suggs isn’t a primary ball-handler, he’s found his niche as a top-tier 3-and-D player. Orlando now has its core locked in with Suggs, Franz Wagner, Wendell Carter Jr., and Jonathan Isaac all extended, and Paolo Banchero is next in line. The Magic are all-in, and they’re only getting started.

Aaron Gordon Locks In for the Long Haul

Denver Nuggets forward Aaron Gordon is staying put after agreeing to a four-year, $133 million contract extension, keeping him in the Mile High City through the 2028-29 season.

According to Klutch Sports’ Calvin Andrews, Rich Paul, and Elise Gordon, this deal includes a player option and a trade kicker, ensuring that Gordon remains a key cog in Denver’s lineup. By opting in on his $23 million salary for the 2025-26 season and tacking on three additional years at max salary, Denver solidifies one of its core players from their 2023 championship run.

Gordon has become one of the league’s premier role players, averaging 13.9 points and 6.5 rebounds while shooting an efficient 55.6% from the field last season. After losing Kentavious Caldwell-Pope to free agency this summer, keeping Gordon was crucial for the Nuggets to stay in title contention.

Khris Middleton’s Ongoing Injury Woes

Milwaukee Bucks fans will have to wait a bit longer to see Khris Middleton in action. After undergoing two off-season ankle surgeries, Middleton will miss the Bucks' season opener against the 76ers on Wednesday. Bucks coach Doc Rivers revealed that Middleton hasn’t yet progressed to playing 5-on-5, though they held out some hope he’d be ready in time.

Injuries have been an unfortunate theme for the 33-year-old forward, who only managed 55 regular-season games last year and 33 the year before. From wrist surgery in 2022 to knee surgery last offseason, Middleton’s resilience is being tested. Bucks fans will be hoping he can get healthy soon because, with Giannis and newly-acquired Damian Lillard, this season feels like their best shot at another championship.

WNBA Opts Out of CBA, Eyes Big Changes by 2025

The WNBA players have opted out of their current collective bargaining agreement, setting the stage for major negotiations that could reshape the league. The WNBPA made the announcement Monday, making it clear that the players are aiming for a better deal, one that reflects the league's growth and their true value.

The current CBA, which was initially set to run until 2027, will remain in effect through October 31, 2025. That gives the league and the players a one-year window to negotiate a new agreement and avoid a potential work stoppage.

Citing increased television ratings, better attendance, and rising franchise values, along with the new $200 million-per-year media deal with Disney, Amazon, and NBC, the players believe the time is ripe for change.

Expect to hear the players pushing for higher salaries, improved working conditions, better health benefits, and stronger long-term investments to fuel the league's growth.

Nike Extends Partnership with NBA & WNBA

Nike has inked a massive 12-year contract extension with both the NBA and WNBA, ensuring the sportswear giant will remain the leagues’ official outfitter until 2035. This new deal reinforces Nike’s position as a cornerstone partner, providing not just uniforms but also driving marketing initiatives and content partnerships.

Three-time WNBA MVP A’ja Wilson highlighted the importance of Nike’s involvement since she turned pro in 2018: "It’s about more than just the uniforms. Their investment into women’s basketball has changed the game."

The extended deal also promises an increased focus on youth basketball, with both Nike and the leagues committing resources to foster player development. Special attention will be placed on ensuring access to the sport for young girls around the world, with a goal of improving the basketball experience at all levels.

That’s all for today, thanks for reading.

We’ll see you tomorrow!

— The Players Unlimited Team