Harden, Rockets beat Bucks 111-92 (Sports Betting News)

The Milwaukee Bucks have emerged as the strong favorites to sign Goran Dragic.

Dragic cleared waivers on Thursday after his buyout agreement with the Chicago Bulls.

Dragic strongly considered the Bucks last season when he instead joined the Brooklyn Nets.

The Bucks believe Dragic will add depth in the backcourt.

The Portland Trail Blazers have agreed to a multi-year contract extension with General Manager Joe Cronin.

Cronin was originally named the General Manager on May 10, 2022 after serving in the role as interim since December 3, 2021. In the past three seasons, Cronin has engineered roster moves that have improved the team’s overall talent level and competitiveness going forward. Through trades, Cronin spearheaded the additions of Jerami Grant in July of 2022, Deandre Ayton and Toumani Camara in September of 2023, and Deni Avdija in July of 2024.

Under Cronin’s direction, the Trail Blazers have also added talent through the draft selecting Shaedon Sharpe in 2022, Scoot Henderson in 2023, and Donovon Clingan in 2024. Both Sharpe (2023) and Henderson (2023, 2024), along with Camara (2024), have been named to NBA Rising Stars teams at multiple All-Star weekends.

“Joe has demonstrated leadership and vision during his time as General Manager, and I’m excited to see him continue building the foundation for a long-term, winning team,” said Jody Allen, chair of the Portland Trail Blazers. “We are all thrilled with the team’s forward momentum and excited for the future of Trail Blazers basketball.”

“I am honored that Jody and Bert have put their continued trust in me and thank them for believing in this opportunity to further our pursuit of building a winning team in Portland,” said Joe Cronin, Portland Trail Blazers General Manager. “My vision is to have a competitive roster with the potential for sustained success, while creating a culture that helps all our players, coaches and staff thrive. I couldn’t be more excited for what’s to come.”

Since first joining the team as an intern, Cronin has gained experience within the organization across a variety of front office roles. Now with 19 years of front office experience, including extensive knowledge of the salary cap, proven management skills, player evaluation prowess, and player contract expertise, Cronin will continue to lead the Trail Blazers.