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Following the official schedule announcement on Monday, the 2019-20 NBA season is quickly approaching, and the upcoming campaign is shaping up to be one of the best in recent memory.
Both Los Angeles teams will be contenders after adding some of the biggest names in the NBA, while the addition of Russell Westbrook could be enough for the Houston Rockets to finally end their wait for a title.
Meanwhile, a number of teams in the East will be hoping to benefit from Kawhi Leonard's departure from Toronto, and many are eager to see if Giannis Antetokounmpo can take his game to the next level after winning his first MVP title.
Further trades are also likely in the final weeks leading up to the new season, and here are all the latest news and rumors you need to know for August 14th.
Los Angeles Lakers sign Demetrius Jackson
The Los Angeles Lakers had one final roster spot heading into the new season, although the team has now filled that final spot by signing Demetrius Jackson. The guard will add depth to a backcourt that lacks quality, although it remains to be seen how much Jackson will play as he competes for minutes with Alex Caruso, Rajon Rondo, and Quinn Cook.
Jackson was drafted 45th overall by the Boston Celtics back in 2016, although the point guard has played just 26 NBA games across three seasons, averaging 1.8 points in 5.2 minutes per game. He spent last season with the Philadelphia 76ers but played just six times.
Nevertheless, Jackson impressed during his time in the G-League, averaging 19.4 points, 7.4 assists, and 4.5 rebounds. The Los Angeles Times is also reporting that Jackson's deal could be converted to a two-way deal, which would allow the Lakers to sign a veteran star such as Carmelo Anthony.
Josh Richardson looking forward to playing for the Philadelphia 76ers
Josh Richardson has spent the past four seasons with the Miami Heat, although the 25-year-old shooting guard will link up with the Philadelphia 76ers for the upcoming campaign after being included in the deal that sent Jimmy Butler to Miami.
Regarding the move, Richardson told the Miami Herald that he was surprised to be included, but was looking forward to playing on a contending team:
I got excited once I saw our roster that we’re going to be working with, and I think we’ve got a good chance to come out of the East. And I’m excited to be able to go and play for a contender.
The 18-19 NBA season was the best of Richardson's career as he averaged 16.6 points, 4.1 assists and 3.6 rebounds per game.
Justin Patton signs with the Oklahoma City Thunder
The Oklahoma City Thunder have endured a turbulent offseason, although the franchise is now looking to build for the future. Sam Presti is currently focused on bringing in young talent, and the Thunder have announced the signing of free-agent center Justin Patton.
The 22-year-old was selected by the Chicago Bulls with the No.16 overall pick of the 2017 NBA Draft but was traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves later that night. During his spell in Minnesota, Patton made just one appearance and he also played just three times during the 18-19 season with the Philadelphia 76ers.
Nevertheless, Patton made an impression with the Delaware Blue Coats of the G League, and the Thunder organization still believe that the young center has untapped potential. Following his signing, Patton will compete for minutes with Steven Adams and Nerlens Noel.
