Wednesday scores and links
The Knicks are just plain good.
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Nikola Jokic's loyalty doesn't have to be a curse
The Joker verbally recommitted to the Nuggets last week, saying he'll re-sign next summer. That allows Denver to operate without fear but also takes his leverage off the table, which may result in that single championship he's already won. That's okay.
Watching for drop-outs
In the NBA's new lottery system, the biggest tanking risk is from teams who could make a run at the play-in but choose instead of fall out of the race and improve draft standing. How will we tell when teams do this?
3 highly consequential rookie extensions still on the table
Four class of 2023 first-rounders have secured extensions heading into preseason. There are three highly important ones still looming.
The Pistons showed us the unbreakable power of restricted free agency
The Pistons had their star center in a very difficult spot, gave him minor concessions and in the 11th hour, he accepted them. The system is set up to this if teams have the will. Plus: Victor Wembanyama stands up to sports betting and the Blazers do an oopsie.