LAS VEGAS — Dillon Jones, despite not playing a single minute in the NBA Finals, played a key role in helping coach Mike Brown secure the championship as a sort of unofficial adviser.
As part of the 2025 Championship Thunder, Jones gained insights into how to navigate various situations. Brown sought guidance from younger players and took at least one of their suggestions to heart: he had the Knicks rewatch their Game 3 loss to the Spurs.
A similar strategy was used by the Thunder last year to inspire Jones when he was a bench player. “Honestly, it speaks more to the coach himself than it does to me or what I have to offer,” Jones mentioned after helping his team beat the Pistons 86-75 in Summer League. “The fact that he came to me for advice and asked if I could contribute in any way… I think that resonates with him more than anything I’d say. His openness to listen to everyone around him is really nice. It feels good to help the team in some manner.”
Jones said the suggestion to rewatch Game 3 arose from a casual conversation with Brown. “It wasn’t anything specific, just a chat we had. It just naturally came up in our discussion. I wasn’t strategizing or anything—sometimes you throw out ideas and see what sticks. I’m glad I could assist the team.”
Currently, Jones is vying for a spot in training camp.
On the Injury Front
Mohamed Diawara (left ring finger injury) and Pachom Dadiette (right foot soreness) were both out on Monday, yet the Knicks shrugged it off, riding rookie Jack Cale to their initial Summer League victory.
Cale, a second-round draft pick who played in Germany last year, led the team with 19 points and three steals in 29 minutes. “He’s a very talented kid,” Jones remarked. “It’s impressive how he quickly adapted to the team, despite his late arrival. That says a lot about his background and development in Europe. He’s someone who won’t shy away from the spotlight… he has a bright future ahead.”
Cale joined the summer league late due to some contract issues with his German club and expressed a desire not to remain hidden overseas this season.
Free Agency Buzz
Another center isn’t on the roster yet, or maybe he is?
Jonas Valanciunas seems to have responded to reports from abroad suggesting he signed with Lithuanian team BC Zalgiris, posting on social media: “When I wake up, I realize that everything is decided. I don’t have to do anything myself. Thank you, journalists,” along with a laughing emoji.
Still, an agreement between Valanciunas and Zalgiris is expected, although it might not be finalized, according to sources. Valanciunas, 34, is a free agent after being released by the Nuggets and is said to be on the Knicks’ radar, as they currently lack depth at center, with only Karl-Anthony Towns and Andre Drummond on the roster.
