NBA Offseason and Draft Officially Underway!
By Noah Zimmerman | noah@queensledger.com
The Larry O’Brien Trophy is heading to Oklahoma City for the first time, as the Thunder fended off the Indiana Pacers 103-91 in Game 7. It was the 20th Game 7 in Finals history and first since 2016, capping an all time classic series.
Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander won a triple-crown with the regular season MVP, scoring title, and Finals MVP. Across the court, Tyrese Haliburton put on a postseason for the ages, with last-second game-tying or winning shots in every round of the playoffs.
Unfortunately Haliburton’s dream was cut short, as a torn Achilles tendon cut his night short, likely sidelining him for the entire 2025-26 season. Without him the Pacers were unable to get past Chet Holmgren and Alex Caruso, both with terrific defensive nights for the Thunder.
In the wake of the dramatic season finale, attention shifts to the offseason and Draft. Moves have already started, with Kevin Durant traded to Houston. The Rockets now hold Durant and the picks Phoenix originally traded Brooklyn for him, but gave up the #10 pick in the deal. Phoenix will likely continue to be aggressive in trades, though it’s unclear what direction they’ll choose.
Brooklyn’s four first round selections gave them the most in the draft, also holding the 6th pick in Thursday’s second round. The Nets will also look to the trade market, as they are a probable dumping ground for bloated expiring contracts.
Across town, the Knicks didn’t have much to do in the draft. After parting with most of their picks in trades, New York only held the 50th overall pick in Round 2. The Knicks have their work cut out for them, as they still have a head coach to hire following their firing of Tom Thibodeau.
Next season is sure to be a fascinating one, especially in the East. With Achilles injuries to Damian Lillard and Jayson Tatum, the Bucks, Celtics, and Pacers will all be missing their first guard option, likely for the whole year. It’s a perfect opportunity for the Knicks to go all-in, as most contenders will be hailing from the Western Conference.
