Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James said on the latest edition of the Mind the Game podcast with Steve Nash that Metta Sandiford-Artest (formerly known as Ron Artest) was "one of the best defenders" he ever played against.

Los Angeles was bounced in five games by a younger, quicker, and more determined Timberwolves squad — and to make matters worse, James suffered a Grade 2 MCL sprain in his left knee that required surgery.

Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James revealed the toughest defender he’s faced in his legendary NBA career.

The focus of the 2025 NBA draft is on the top of this class, especially Cooper Flagg likely going to the Dallas Mavericks at No. 1 overall, but most the marquee franchises in the sport will be deep in their scouting bag trying to find young players who might be able to contribute in the future because of where they are picking.

The Dallas Mavericks, owners of the No. 1 pick thanks to winning the draft lottery despite a 1.8% chance of doing so, have no plans to work out any other prospects other than Duke's Cooper Flagg for the top choice.

The New Orleans Pelicans now have the 7th pick and 23rd pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. ESPN Senior NBA Insider Shams Charania reports that the Pelicans acquired the No. 23 pick from the Indiana Pacers in exchange for a 2026 first-round pick that New Orleans received in the Brandon Ingram trade to Toronto.