The Boston Celtics faced a critical moment in Game 2 against the New York Knicks, down 91-90 with 12.7 seconds left. In a surprising decision, head coach Joe Mazzulla opted not to call a timeout, allowing Jayson Tatum to attempt a drive that resulted in a turnover and a game-sealing steal by Mikal Bridges. Mazzulla explained his choice, citing a successful previous play that had led to an easy Tatum dunk. However, the Knicks adjusted defensively, making it hard for Boston to execute the same strategy.

This loss puts the Celtics at 0-2 in the Eastern Conference semifinals, leaving them with no room for error as they head to New York for two critical games. The pressure mounts on both Mazzulla and his team to quickly adjust and find a way to bounce back, especially with a hostile Madison Square Garden crowd awaiting them.

DeAndre Liggins, a prominent figure for the Oklahoma City Thunder during the 2012-13 season, wore jersey No. 25, a number that has been sported by 12 players in the franchise's history. Liggins, selected 53rd overall in the 2011 NBA Draft, started his career with the Orlando Magic before joining OKC. In his sole season with the Thunder, he averaged 1.5 points and 1.4 assists, marking a brief yet significant tenure as part of the team's evolving identity.

The Thunder's jersey history is rich, encompassing the legacy of the Seattle Supersonics, whose jerseys become part of the Thunder's narrative if a new team emerges in Seattle. This historical context adds depth to the significance of individual players like Liggins, whose contributions, although modest statistically, are part of a larger tapestry of the franchise's evolution.

The Golden State Warriors have a long and storied history, having featured over 600 players wearing more than 60 different jersey numbers since their inception in 1946. Among these, the No. 11 jersey has been worn by 23 players, with Coby Karl being the 22nd. A product of Boise State, Karl went undrafted in 2007 but made his mark by signing with the Los Angeles Lakers. After stints in the G League and overseas, he joined the Warriors in 2010, where he averaged 7.0 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game during his time in Golden State.

Mike Woodson returns to the NBA as the Sacramento Kings' assistant coach under Doug Christie. This marks Woodson's first official role in the league since his time at Indiana, where he coached for four seasons. Known for his previous head coaching stints with the Atlanta Hawks and New York Knicks, Woodson brings substantial experience to a Kings team aiming for a deeper playoff run.

Christie, who was promoted to head coach following a decent run after Mike Brown's departure, is tasked with leading the Kings, a franchise struggling with playoff success for nearly two decades. Woodson’s addition could provide a much-needed reset for the team, which hasn't won a playoff series since 2004 and has only made the playoffs once in the last 19 seasons.

The Detroit Pistons are looking to build on their surprising playoff appearance last season, emphasizing continuity as their primary goal for the upcoming offseason. After achieving 44 wins, the franchise's leadership, including president of basketball operations Trajan Langdon, is optimistic about internal growth rather than major roster overhauls. Key players Jaden Ivey and Jalen Duren are slated for potential contract extensions, while the team is also evaluating the futures of veterans Malik Beasley, Tim Hardaway Jr., Paul Reed, and Dennis Schroeder. Although nothing is confirmed, Beasley has expressed a strong desire to return, having made significant contributions throughout the season.

Langdon highlighted the importance of maintaining the team's young core, with all returning players under 23, and fostering their development through a healthy season. The looming draft also adds depth to the strategy, with the Pistons holding the 37th overall pick. Langdon's insights suggest a focused approach to talent acquisition, weighing options between moving up in the draft or retaining their current position. The Pistons are determined to build upon their recent success while ensuring the long-term growth of their promising roster.