Kawhi Leonard Mentors Blazers' Yang Hansen Amid NBA Draft Doubts

The 2025 NBA offseason has featured notable developments, particularly surrounding rising stars and rookies. Luka Doncic praised his former Dallas Mavericks teammate Jalen Brunson, now a key player and captain for the New York Knicks, highlighting their mutual respect as both lead their teams toward potential title runs. Meanwhile, the Portland Trail Blazers made a surprising move by selecting 7-foot-2 center Yang Hansen 16th overall in the 2025 NBA Draft, a pick considered a draft reach by many NBA executives but one that Portland strongly supports due to Hansen's passing and shot-blocking skills. Hansen's impressive Summer League performance caught the attention of established players like Kawhi Leonard, who has taken Hansen under his wing, offering advice on adjusting to the NBA's fast pace and even seeking Mandarin trash-talking lessons ahead of a planned trip to China. Despite some skepticism from league executives, the Blazers remain confident Hansen will contribute as a backup center and develop alongside their young roster. This mentorship and the developing rivalry between Doncic and Brunson promise an exciting NBA season ahead.