The Atlanta Hawks are trading guard Kobe Bufkin to the Brooklyn Nets for cash considerations, sources tell ESPN. Bufkin was Atlanta's No. 15 pick in the 2023 NBA draft, and this now gives him a fresh opportunity in Brooklyn, and the Hawks some roster flexibility.
I don’t have a college degree. I don’t have an inheritance. No one in my family is famous nor do they have connections. I was a dirt poor kid from Louisiana who only knew one thing: hard work. And with that hard work, coupled with the grace of God, I’m officially a homeowner. I just want to thank everyone who believed in me, and supported me. This truly does change everything…
🚨Masai Ujiri has finally broke his silence since parting ways with the Raptors.
Some quotes:
"It's been 12 incredible years with the Toronto Raptors, and I am so grateful and thankful for the opportunity. Fans, my family, colleagues, coaches, players, the owners, everybody has been incredible to me. And Toronto, I love you Toronto, it's a great part a great journey in my life and it's time. Great things come to an end."
On whether he is anticipating being in the NBA in the future:
"Now it's day to day with the family... And honestly, now is a time to really look at it from the top, and I know there are great things coming!"
He also had a lot to say about Giants of Africa:
"We will continue to build courts, and continue to build infrastructure in really difficult areas. Really, continue to inspire young girls. And honestly, this game has taken me incredible places, and I want the youth of Africa, the youth of the world, they need opportunity, and I hope through sports we continue to grow the game."
Masai, all class as always.
Updated odds to win the Eastern Conference next season via @DKSportsbook:
Cavaliers: +250
Knicks: +285
Magic: +550
Sixers: +1100
Celtics: +1100
Bucks: +1200
Hawks: +1200
Pistons: +1700
Pacers: +2800
Heat: +6500
Absolutely wide open race in the East next season.
Lost in the Masai Ujiri firing was the Raptors signing Chucky Hepburn to a two-way contract per @ShamsCharania who won DPOY last season in the ACC.
Strengths:
- Poised and mature floor general
- Strong pick and roll decision maker
- Tough on-ball defender with quick hands
- High basketball IQ
Weaknesses:
- Undersized with average athleticism
- Struggles finishing over length
- Inconsistent three-point shooter
- Limited isolation creation ability
The Raptors are not going to rush this process but are planning to move fast.
"The urgency is to find the right person. If that's next week perfect. If that's in a month that's fine too. And if it's in two months that's okay. That's the number one priority is to find the person that can get us back to winning championships."