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After a somewhat modest showing in round one, the 2019 postseason is starting to kick into full gear. The Rockets are locked in a bitter series against a Golden State team looking to win a third consecutive championship, while Kawhi Leonard is demonstrating exactly why he will be in high demand this summer.
The annual NBA draft is also just six weeks away, and all eyes are on Zion Williamson -- who many experts have labeled as the most promising teenager to enter the NBA since LeBron James back in 2003.
The futures of upcoming free-agents such as Kyrie Irving, and Kevin Durant are also constant topics for speculation, so, here are all the latest news and rumors you need to know for May 8th.
Russell Westbrook and Paul George undergo surgery
Over the course of the 18/19 season, both Russell Westbrook and Paul George struggled with injuries. George notably fought with a shoulder issue as the Thunder exited the playoffs to Portland, whereas Westbrook missed time at the start of the season due to a knee issue. The health of both players is paramount heading into next season, and OKC yesterday announced that their All-Star duo have undergone surgery,
Russell Westbrook underwent successful surgery to repair a ligament on the fourth metacarpophalangeal joint (MCP) of his left hand. Westbrook also had a successful elective arthroscopic procedure on his right knee in preparation for offseason training. The 2016-17 NBA MVP is expected to return to full basketball activities in approximately three weeks.
Paul George had successful elective surgery on his right shoulder to repair a partial thickness supraspinatus tendon tear. George will also address a small labrum tear in his left shoulder with a procedure in the coming weeks. An update on the six-time All-Star’s return-to-play status will be provided prior to the start of the 2019-20 NBA season.
This season, Westbrook averaged a triple-double for a third consecutive season, while George averaged career highs in points (28.0), rebounds (8.2), assists (4.1).
Is Klay Thompson unhappy with the Warriors?
Following his underwhelming performance in Game 4 of the Western Conference playoff semifinals, Klay Thompson's future with the Warriors has been heavily debated. Some have questioned whether Thompson is worth a max deal this summer, although ESPN's Stephen A. Smith told First Take that Thompson himself may be frustrated in Golden State,
I'm not speaking about opinion here/ I got this from a few people. I'm told Klay Thompson -- I have not spoken to Klay in fairness to Klay, let me be clear about that -- I'm told Klay isn't happy -- his number hasn't been called nearly enough. He's tired of sitting around and getting, this is a quote, the 'crumbs' left behind by other people.
Thompson will become an unrestricted free agent this summer, and he is expected to attract interest from teams such as the Los Angeles Lakers.
LeBron James Wants Tom Thibodeau to Join Lakers' Coaching Staff
Tyronn Lue is expected to finalize a deal to become the new Los Angeles Lakers head coach in the coming week, and Frank Isola of The Athletic is reporting that LeBron James is keen to see Tom Thibodeau bought in as an assistant:
If the Lakers finalize a deal to make Tyronn Lue the team's new head coach, Lue will want to add Tom Thibodeau to his coaching staff. LeBron James has also expressed his desire to have Thibodeau with the team, instructing close associates to gauge Thibodeau's interest in becoming a top assistant. However, some of the downside that could keep Thibodeau from joining Los Angeles is how much money he is owed from the Timberwolves and a possible preference for a head coaching gig.
Thibodeau was fired by the Minnesota Timberwolves last season, although it is questionable whether he will be willing to take on an assistant role.
