Many thought the Lakers would be the …

Many thought the Lakers would be the team to sign Anthony in the offseason because of their need for depth and floor spacing. That speculation also arose because of Anthony’s close friendship with superstar LeBron James. Anthony had the blessing of James, league sources told Yahoo Sports, but the front office chose to go in a different direction. The 6-foot-8 forward said he understood that his extended absence from the league had very little to do with what he was capable of doing on the court.

Pels have every intention to keep Brandon Ingram

At full strength, the Pelicans have a talented mix of veteran players and young prospects. Jrue Holiday is under contract potentially through the 2021-22 season. JJ Redick signed a two-year deal last summer. Brandon Ingram, 22, is a restricted free agent next summer, but Griffin told The Undefeated that the Pelicans have every intention of keeping him long term.

Eric Nehm: Earlier today, Jabari Parker …


Parker, 24, faces a player option for …

Parker, 24, faces a player option for 2020-21 with the Hawks after signing a two-year, $13 million contract on July 11. He wouldn’t rule out a return to the first NBA organization that he called home — but only if the opportunity presented itself. “Never. I would never rule out a possible return here,” Parker told ESPN. “I would never do that. It’s just so sad how it ended and I wish I could’ve stayed.”

There has been speculation that a max …

There has been speculation that a max offer never came, that it was made but rescinded at the last minute, that Al Horford opting to become a free agent caused a wrinkle in the 76er’s original plans. “Obviously, something happened,” Butler told The Athletic while lacing up his boots after the 76ers’ woodshed-worthy, 113-86 beatdown at Wells Fargo Center. “We’re not going to say what it was. We’re not going to go into detail. We can’t keep living on that. They can’t. But I’m happy, man. It brings me joy, being around this group of guys (in Miami). I don’t regret nothing, you feel me?”