Pope of Basketball.

Summary

Yang Rui proposed draft suggestions after the holiday, with only one first-round pick remaining after trading away second-round picks. He aims to select forward Kyle Kuzma with the 30th pick, emphasizing the importance of re-signing seasoned veterans like Norman Powell and Malcolm Brogdon over drafting new rookies. The 2017 draft saw notable selections, including Markelle Fultz by the 76ers as the first overall pick and Lonzo Ball by the Lakers as the second. Jayson Tatum was picked by the Magic, while the Clippers selected Tony Bradley, who was later traded to the Jazz. The NBA Awards Ceremony on June 27 faced criticism for its late timing, overshadowed by Yang Rui's retirement news. Draymond Green won the Best Defensive Player award, and Joel Embiid was named Best Rookie despite not being a 2016 rookie. Kevin Durant controversially received the MVP award after joining the Wizards. New awards were established, including the Sai Ge Courage Award, honoring Montie Wei Lian Mu Si for his compassion after personal tragedy. Yang Rui observed that the NBA was increasingly resembling a variety show, with the free market opening in July leading to exorbitant contracts for players, including Otto Porter and Kai Lue. The Clippers maintained their lineup with minimal adjustments, signing Jeff Green as a replacement for the retired Dawei Li. The upcoming season promises to showcase the team's depth and talent.

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