Buford described a frustrating process of rehabilitation for what has been an elusive solution to an injury. “This has been difficult for everyone,” Buford told ESPN. “It’s been difficult for Kawhi. He’s an elite level player. It’s been difficult for the team, because they want to play with a great teammate. And it’s been difficult for our staff. Historically we’ve been able to successfully manage injuries. This rehab hasn’t been simple and it hasn’t gone in a linear fashion.”
May 26, 2022 | 5:20 pm EDT Update
Vasilije Micic staying in Europe?

Ergin Ataman: “Like Messi’s transfer to France, like Cristiano Ronaldo’s transfer to different teams. We are doing everything we can to prevent this from happening. Our relations with Larkin as a club are very good. I think he likes the club and Istanbul very much, but ultimately the decision will be made by the player himself. As for Vasilije Micic’s situation, I think his contract has an NBA exit until July 20. Micic can’t play for any other club in Europe for 3 years, we signed the contract last season. He might consider it if he gets a big offer from the NBA. I think Micic enjoyed playing in Europe. The time will tell. Frankly, I think Micic will continue with us. I think he will be with us next season as well. There is not much we can do about it. I mean, he has a very good contract, but if there is a big offer from the NBA, we will try to fill his place. We want to continue with both players.”

Ergin Ataman was a guest on Turkish television and, among other things, he talked about whether Shane Larkin and Vasilije Micic will continue with the team, the potential addition of Will Clyburn, as well as if this Efes squad could be considered the best in Euroleague history. “Shane Larkin is very happy here. Larkin reached the peak of his career in Anadolu Efes, becoming one of the 2 to 3 best players in Europe, sometimes even the best. He broke the record in Europe. Won two championships in a row. The family atmosphere in Anadolu Efes must have affected him as well, but after all, he is a professional. Of course, there are serious offers for him. After all, free agents in Europe are clear today. Of course, we really want Larkin to continue with us. Let’s hope this will work out in a positive way, but if it doesn’t, there may be some flash transfers as a result,” he said and compared it to stellar transfers in soccer.
Zion Williamson cleared to play

Andrew Lopez: Pelicans say Zion Williamson has been cleared in his return to play progression without any restrictions. Recent imaging showed continued improvement of the bone healing in his right fifth metatarsal.
Clutch Points: “Man, they right there.” Patrick Beverley on the disparity between LeBron and Steph Curry 🔊

Basketball-Reference: 2022 NBA Playoffs leaders in Offensive Win Shares: 2.1 – Jimmy Butler 1.6 – Chris Paul 1.6 – Stephen Curry 1.3 – Jalen Brunson 1.3 – Al Horford 1.2 – Luka Doncic 1.2 – Jordan Poole 1.1 – Bam Adebayo 1.1 – Dorian Finney-Smith 1.1 – Deandre Ayton #NBAPlayoffs | #NBA
David Roddy on improvement shooting from perimeter: I attribute it to my confidence as well as just trusting the work I put in. It was a multi-year process so having certain games where I would catch fire was a sigh of relief my junior year. After that, my confidence just skyrocketed and I understood that my hard work was paying off and I could have fun with it.
Multiple sources have confirmed to Boardroom that Howard University will sign a school-wide deal with Jordan Brand to outfit the Bison athletic department’s teams for their upcoming seasons.
May 26, 2022 | 2:50 pm EDT Update
Otto Porter expected to miss Game 5

Chris Haynes: Golden State Warriors forward Otto Porter Jr. (foot) is not expected to play tonight in Game 5 against the Dallas Mavericks, league sources tell @YahooSports.