Explore Pier Avenue

Stretching from Pacific Coast Highway to the Strand, Pier Avenue is the central artery of Hermosa Beach. Along this winding road youll find restaurants, cafes, bars, and boutique shops. Grab a parking space somewhere in the middle, and explore this eclectic street on foot.

Stars Antique Market, located in a historic building from 1917, is an iconic site along Pier Ave. Pop in to enjoy a range of vintage and antique goods from over 65 vendors. Our visit coincided with the holidays, and I enjoyed a large display of vintage ornaments and decorations at the front of the shop.

Java Man Coffee House opened shortly after Jason and I moved to Hermosa Beach, and it soon became my go-to spot for coffee and a muffin after my morning walk along the Strand. I was delighted to see that its still open and doing well. In addition to indoor seating, they also offer a large outdoor patio -- a great spot to watch life unfold along this bustling street.

You cant miss curious with its aqua blue exterior and festively decorated windows. But the inside is even better. I spent almost 30 minutes browsing their fun collection of gifts, books, puzzles, and cards. Clearly, the owners Andrew and Bryce have a great sense of humor.

At the base of Pier Ave. is Pier Plaza, a pedestrian-only street full of restaurants and bars. In the evenings and weekends, this part of town has a party vibe. But tucked in between all the restaurants is Spyder Surf II, a fun store selling casual clothes for men, women, and children. Their main store on Pacific Coast Highway has been selling surfboards, snowboards, and related gear since 1978.

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The Best Things To Do In Beautiful Hermosa Beach, Plus Where To Eat And Stay - TravelAwaits

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If you blinked, you missed most of the 2020 NBA offseason action.

In a little over a week, we saw rosters revamped by the draft, trades and free-agent signings. And while not every team operated with the relentless transactional fury of the Oklahoma City Thunder, who swung deals with 10 organizations, it was still easy to come out of the experience feeling as dazed as Trevor Ariza, who shuttled between four teams in a matter of hours.

These offseason grades will assess how each organization did with the resources it had at its disposal, keeping in mind that not everyone had cap space, high draft picks or useful trade chips. There's no curve here, but we'll acknowledge each team's varying goals and positions in the league hierarchy as we evaluate their work.

In some cases, win-now moves made sense. In others...not so much.

We'll be tough but fair, though judging by the plethora of high marks we'll see, it seems like several teams used the lengthy hiatus from March to July to get their plans in order.

Then again, maybe the Detroit Pistons and Charlotte Hornets could have used a few more weeks.

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Notable Additions: Danilo Gallinari, Bogdan Bogdanovic, Kris Dunn, Rajon Rondo, Tony Snell, Onyeka Okongwu

Notable Subtractions: Dewayne Dedmon, Jeff Teague, DeAndre' Bembry, Vince Carter

Notable Re-Signings: None

The Atlanta Hawks weren't stingy with their cap space, handing 32-year-old Danilo Gallinari a three-year, $61.5 million deal and following that with a $72 million offer sheet for Bogdan Bogdanovic.If short-term improvement was the goal, Atlanta achieved it.

A partial guarantee on the third year of Gallo's deal offers the Hawks protection against the veteran's decline. If Gallinari ages poorly, Atlanta can get out from under the last year of his contract for a nominal fee.

Rajon Rondo addresses the playmaking void that opened whenever Trae Young sat last seasonthough at far too high a price (two years, $15 million)and Kris Dunn is an ideal defense-first fit in the backcourt. Throw in Tony Snell and Onyeka Okongwu, and the Hawks have essentially added six rotation pieces.

It's fair to worry that Atlanta spent too aggressively in ways that might compromise long-term flexibility and, ultimately, lower the franchise's ceiling. But the Hawks also wisely held off on a big extension for John Collins and could flip him for future assets to offset their recent win-now expenditures.

Snatching Okongwu with the sixth pick could also go down as a draft success. There's a nonzero chance he winds up the best big in the 2020 class, and his versatility makes him a clean fit in the modern game.

In all, the Hawks paid handsomely to improve. The playoffs aren't just a goal; they should be the expectation.

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Notable Additions: Tristan Thompson, Jeff Teague, Aaron Nesmith, Payton Pritchard

Notable Subtractions: Gordon Hayward, Enes Kanter, Brad Wanamaker

Notable Re-signings: Jayson Tatum

Under no circumstances should the Boston Celtics have met the market rates set by the Charlotte Hornets for Gordon Hayward, who opted out of his $34.2 million 2020-21 salary to sign a four-year, $120 million agreement with Charlotte.

That said, if the Celtics could have pulled off a sign-and-trade with the Indiana Pacers for Myles Turner and Doug McDermott, asGary Washburn of the Boston Globereported was being discussed, that's a glaring missed opportunity. Now Hayward's gone, and Boston has nothing to show for it but a slightly lower tax payment.

Tristan Thompson and Jeff Teague are decent rotation options, though the former might be overpaid at the full mid-level exception (MLE), while the latter looked close to his NBA expiration date last season. Turner would have been an ideal fit in the starting five andbonuswould have given Boston the kind of mid-tier matching salary it could use in a future trade for a superstar.

The only reason Boston ekes out an average grade: Jayson Tatum is locked up at the full max after signing a rookie-scale extension that could be worth up to $195 million. It was tempting to dock the Celtics a half-grade for failing to get Tatum on a full five-year deal; he managed to negotiate a player option on that fifth season.

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Notable Additions: Bruce Brown, Landry Shamet, Jeff Green

Notable Subtractions: Garrett Temple, Dzanan Musa

Notable Re-signings: Joe Harris

No spectacular additions here, as the Brooklyn Nets seem justifiably content with a healthy Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving constituting their major offseason talent infusion.

Bruce Brown can defend (and not shoot), while Landry Shamet can shoot (andmaybe defend a little) on the guard line. Those two give Brooklyn some lineup versatility, and both fit with the KD-Kyrie core.

Joe Harris' eye-popping $75 million deal showcases the price of shooting while also underscoring governor Joe Tsai's willingness to spend. Nobody would have batted an eye if Brooklyn had decided that four-year contract was too rich for a player who, in the absolute best-case scenario, profiles as a third option. But the Nets ponied up for an elite sniper, and their status as fringe contenders gets a boost because of it.

There's still probably a blockbuster trade to be made (looking at you, James Harden) that would significantly alter the roster and force a regrading. For now, the Nets' offseason looks pretty averagewith a little boost thrown in for having the guts to pay Harris like a star.

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Notable Additions:LaMelo Ball, Gordon Hayward, Vernon Carey Jr., Nick Richards, Grant Riller

Notable Subtractions:Dwayne Bacon, Nicolas Batum (waived), Willy Hernangomez

Notable Re-signings:Bismack Biyombo

The Charlotte Hornets looked at last season's 23-42 record, whichoversold the team's qualitywhen measured against its net rating, and decided they were one player away from...something.

Thirty wins? The eighth seed in the East? A shot at the play-in tournament?

It's hard to say.

An easier task: labeling Hayward's four-year, $120 million contract as one of the most ill-advised signings of the past several years. Hayward, a fine player, figures to top out at "quality second option on a winner" over the life of this new deal, which will take him through his age-33 season. Price in age-related decline, the lack of proven help around him and an alarming recent injury history, and you've got all the ingredients for a disastrous deal.

The Hornets should know something about that, as they may have towaive and stretch the last one of those they signed, per ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski. To make room for Hayward, Charlottecould be forced to spread thefinal year of Nicolas Batum's albatross contract over the next three years. That would amount to $9 million in dead money on the cap in each of the next three years.

On the plus side in that scenario, Batum doesn't have to be on the Hornets anymore. He gets an A for the offseason.

If you're high on LaMelo Ball and believe he's got superstar upside, there's hope. But it's faint.

The Hornets broke the bank for an aging former star who might be good enough to nudge them toward .500. This offseason might as well become the playbook for how to stay mired in sub-mediocrity forever.

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Notable Additions:Patrick Williams, Devon Dotson, Garrett Temple

Notable Subtractions:Kris Dunn, Shaquille Harrison

Notable Re-signings:Denzel Valentine (qualifying offer)

It was surprising to see the Chicago Bulls prioritize Denzel Valentine, who got a qualifying offer, over Kris Dunn and Shaquille Harrison, who didn't. The latter two are among the league's best backcourt defenders, and Dunn even proved he could handle duties as a de facto small forward last season.

Valentine, often injured, doesn't have a standout skill. But he's a more balanced talent than either of the guards Chicago kicked to the curb. Versatility is apparently a point of emphasis for the new front office led by Arturas Karnisovas, perK.C. Johnsonof NBC Sports Chicago.

Patrick Williams rocketed up everyone's draft board the nearer we drew to Nov. 18, but it was still unexpected to see the Bulls take him at No. 4. Outside the top three picks, the 2020 draft was viewed as something of a crapshoot, though, so it's difficult to be too critical.

Devon Dotson is an intriguing undrafted free agent. Arguably the best player on the Kansas Jayhawks, who finished the truncated 2019-2020 NCAA season ranked No. 1 in the country, Dotson is a blur in the open floor and a dynamic scorer at the point. If he carves out a rotation role, the decision to move on from Dunn and Harrison will make a lot more sense.

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Notable Additions: Isaac Okoro, JaVale McGee, Damyean Dotson

Notable Subtractions: Tristan Thompson

Notable Re-signings:Matthew Dellavedova

When Andre Drummond opted in for $28.7 million last week, the Cleveland Cavaliers' cap space disappeared. That was a foreseeable outcome, though, so it's not like Cleveland's grand plans for free agency were dashed unexpectedly.

The Cavs' big move came in the draft, as Isaac Okoro fits into a hole on the wing and should quickly become one of the team's top defensive weapons. Rookies take time, but Okoro's athleticism and effort should offer immediate help. If he hones his jumper and adds a little more to his off-the-dribble game, he's got a chance to be a high-end wing starter for a long time.

But let's not get carried away with comparisons to Jimmy Butler just yet.

Damyean Dotson should have gotten more interest around the league, and the New York Knicks would have done well to prioritize keeping him. Their loss is Cleveland's gain. The 6'5" guard is a solid shooter on the catch at 36.1 percent for his career.

Cleveland didn't have the opportunity to get much done this offseason, so the relative lack of activity doesn't result in a poor grade. Whatever improvement happens with the team this year will come organicallynot via splashy acquisitions.

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Notable Additions: Josh Richardson, James Johnson, Wes Iwundu, Josh Green, Tyrell Terry, Tyler Bey

Notable Subtractions: Seth Curry, Delon Wright, Justin Jackson

Notable Re-signings: Willie Cauley-Stein, Trey Burke

The Dallas Mavericks needed wing defenders, and they got them.

Josh Richardson should thrive as a shutdown option who won't be pressed into quite so many offensive responsibilities with the Mavs. He wasn't his best self with the Philadelphia 76ers, but he should be in a role that fits his game more cleanly.

Losing Seth Curry in the Richardson trade stings, but the latter's deal will likely come off the books (via a player option) after this season, a bonus for a Mavs team committed to preserving 2021 cap space.

Speaking of which, there can be no doubt the Mavericks have big dreams for next offseason. The Delon Wright salary dump was another clear indication of the team's aimsas was the James Johnson acquisition. The veteran forward's contract expires, you guessed it, after 2020-21.

Rookie Tyrell Terry could offer much of the shooting Curry did for a fraction of the price, and Trey Burke's return after a stellar showing down the stretch last year further bolsters the guard rotation. Draftee Josh Green is another ready-to-play option with serious defensive potential.

Dallas got better where it needed toon defenseand simultaneously increased its future flexibility. That's a tough two-step to pull off.

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Notable Additions: Facundo Campazzo, JaMychal Green, Zeke Nnaji, R.J. Hampton, Isaiah Hartenstein

Notable Subtractions: Jerami Grant, Mason Plumlee, Torrey Craig

Notable Re-signings: Paul Millsap

It was tempting to knock the Denver Nuggets down to the C range, but we can't fault them for failing to compete with the foolish spending of other teams. Of course, it has to be noted that Denver reportedly matchedthe Detroit Pistons' gross overpay for Jerami Grant.

Grant was critical to the Nuggets' rotation, a key defensive component and a starter after a strong postseason showing. But they should count themselves lucky that Grant preferred Detroit's three-year, $60 million offer to theirs. That's just too much for a quality defender who can't create any of his own offense.

It should go without saying that the Nuggets were wise to also let the Pistons blow their cash on a ridiculous $25 million deal for Mason Plumlee. That absurd outlay will be studied by puzzled salary-cap scholars for decades.

Facundo Campazzo will dazzle with his passing and aggression at the point, and R.J. Hampton still has a bit of that top-prospect shine on him. He's a high-variance pick at No. 24, but Denver has had good recent luck with celebrated amateurs who slip in the draft for one reason or another. See: Porter Jr., Michael.

In feel-good news, Paul Millsap will return to the rotation. It's not ideal that Denver may need him to play a larger role at 35 than he did at 34, but that's where the Grant and Plumlee departures leave the team.

Denver may have taken a small step backward, but it still profiles as a contender. More than ever, its fate depends on Porter's rise and Jamal Murray's ability to play like a superstar for a full season.

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Notable Additions: Jerami Grant, Mason Plumlee, Jahlil Okafor, Josh Jackson, Delon Wright, Rodney McGruder, Killian Hayes, Isaiah Stewart, Saddiq Bey

Notable Subtractions: Christian Wood, Langston Galloway, Bruce Brown, Luke Kennard, Tony Snell, Khyri Thomas

Notable Re-signings: None

Charlotte's deal with Hayward is the most damaging long-term agreement signed this offseason, but Detroit's three-year, $25 million pact with Mason Plumlee might be the most ridiculous.

In what world is a non-stretch center worth nearly the full MLE? Christian Wood would have only cost another $5 million per season. The mind reels.

Grant's contract is also a significant overpay, especially because Detroit has nowhere near the playmaking Denver did. Defensively, Grant will be fine. But he's not a get-your-own offense player, and the Pistons' decision to add 17 new centers will only cramp spacing, further limiting Grant's ability to contribute as a dependent scorer.

Worst of all, Detroit swung more than one deal, adding Dewayne Dedmon and Zhaire Smith, for the express purpose of waiving and stretching those salariesall so it could fit Plumlee and Grant into space.

Credit Detroit for being active, and for snagging Killian Hayes at No. 7. But, holy smokes, did the Pistons ever botch this offseason.

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Notable Additions: Kelly Oubre Jr., Kent Bazemore, Brad Wanamaker, James Wiseman, Nico Mannion

Notable Subtractions: Ky Bowman

Notable Re-signings: None

The Golden State Warriors had no control over the worst part of their offseason. Klay Thompson's torn Achilles, suffered on the eve of the draft, was the gut punch felt 'round the world.

While it wasn't always a certainty that the Dubs would use their $17.2 million traded player exception (TPE), the Thompson injury upped the odds. Kelly Oubre Jr. won't replace Thompson's production, but the 24-year-old brings necessary youth, transition verve and defensive activity. Presumably a starter, Oubre is about as much as the Warriors could have hoped for with that TPE.

Old pal Kent Bazemore is back, and he'll also provide much needed two-way play in the wing rotation. He and Brad Wanamaker are terrific gets at a minimal cost, and the Warriors still have their taxpayer MLE and a $9.3 million disabled-player exception in the war chest for midseason moves or buyout candidates.

Finally, though everyone agreed the 2020 draft was as uncertain as they come, James Wiseman feels like the right pick. He profiles as a potential starter right away, and his off-the-charts athleticism should make him useful as a paint protector and lob threat. If his skills develop quickly, we could see the Warriors trust him to space the floor and survive in a more switch-heavy defensive scheme.

The 7'1" David Robinson clone (just talking physical aesthetics) gives Golden State its best chance at a superstar bridge to the post-Stephen Curry era.

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Grading Every NBA Team's Offseason so Far - Bleacher Report

Masaaki Yuasa's Japan Sinks: 2020might've been a letdown, but the director also oversaw one of 2020's success stories, the delightfully addictive and highly memedKeep Your Hands Off Eizouken!Based on the manga bySumito Owara, it's the story of three female students and their passion project. When main protagonist Midori Asakusa, a talented artist with a boundless imagination and a knack for drawing incredible landscapes, meets a young model named Tsubame Mizusaki, an equally talented artist who prefers drawing the human form, sparks fly. Seeing a business opportunity, Asakusa'sinfinitely more sensible best friend, Sayaka Kanamori, suggests that they team up and create their very own anime.Their school already has an anime club, however, so the girls decide to start a motion picture club ("Eizouken" in Japanese) as cover for their ambitious project.

From its catchy opening song (getting "Easy Breezy" by rap duo Chelmico out of your head is a legitimate challenge) to the free-flowing animation from the team at Yuasa's studioScience SARU, this show is 12 episodes of unbridled joy. "There are a few anime that pop-up every few years that are life affirmingly wonderful, and Keep Your Hands Off Eizouken! is definitely one of them," Forbessaid in its review, calling the series"a love letter to anime as a whole" on account of Midori's obsession withFuture Boy Conan,aseminal early series from Studio Ghibli co-founder Hayao Miyazaki.

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The best anime of 2020 - Looper

The Thunders Executive Vice President and General Manager Sam Presti couldnt discuss much in terms of player acquisitions and transactions after the conclusion of the 2020 NBA Draft on Wednesday night. Before announcements could be made, trades must be made official and follow the formal NBA process. However, after the dust settled following a whirlwind of a draft night and trades became final, the Thunder emerged on Thursday with several new additions to the roster with the goal as always to generate value for the organization, present and future.

On Thursday, Thunder fans got a glimpse at how this goal translated with the acquisitions of Aleksej Pokuevski, James Johnson, Admiral Schofield, Vit Krej and Vincent Poirier to the roster.

In a draft-night trade with Minnesota to obtain the rights of the No. 17 pick, the Thunder acquired 7-foot Serbian Aleksej Pokuevski. The forward spent last season playing in Greece for Olympiacos where he posted extremely well-rounded numbers for a player at his size 10 points, seven rebounds and three assists making him one of the most intriguing players in this years draft class. At just 18 years old, Pokuevski, or Poku as he is also known, was among the youngest players in Wednesday nights draft and yet already touted professional experience from his time in the EuroLeague with Greece.

Originally from Novi Sad, Serbia, Pokuevski has spent the last five years in Greece playing for Olympiacos and moved his way up to play in Greeces second division by age 18. In addition to his rare size and versatility, the international prospect explained after the draft that Oklahoma City gained more than just his physical attributes as a player.

I know I'm going to bring energy, said Pokuevski. Whatever they ask me to do, I'm going to do it 100 percent and work to help the team, whatever that means.

The Thunders trade with Minnesota also included the acquisition of 11-year NBA veteran James Johnson. The 6-foot-7 forward averaged 8.7 points, 3.7 rebounds and 2.3 assists last season for the Timberwolves.

In addition to Pokusevski and Johnson, the Thunder also acquired Admiral Schofield from Washington on Thursday as well as the draft rights from the Wizards to Vt Krej, the No. 37 overall pick in Wednesdays draft.

Schofield completed his rookie campaign with the Wizards where he appeared in 33 games and averaged three points, 1.4 rebounds and 11 minutes. In addition, the 23-year-old also saw 33 games (all starts) with the Wizards G-league affiliate the Capital City Go-Go where he posted 16 points, 5.5. rebounds and 2.2 assists in 30.9 minutes.

Prior to the NBA, Schofield was a standout at the University of Tennessee where he ranked seventh in program history in three-pointers made and career field-goal percentage. Under head coach Rick Barnes, the Illinois native helped propel the Volunteers to the NCAA Sweet 16 in his senior season.

Across the Atlantic, Krej spent last season playing for Casademont Zaragoza in the Spanish ACB, Basketball Champions League and Spanish Cup. The 20-year-old, 6-foot-8 guard grew up two hours outside of Prague, Czech Republic before leaving at age 14 to play in Zaragoza, Spain, roughly 200 miles west of Barcelona. In the 2019-20 season Krej averaged 3.2 points, 1.2 rebounds and 9.2 minutes in his 37 appearances.

In a separate transaction on Thursday, the Thunder received 7-foot center Vincent Poirier from the Celtics as well as cash considerations in exchange for a protected 2021 second-round draft pick. The French native averaged 1.9 points and 2.0 rebounds in 5.9 minutes per game in his rookie season. During his four appearances with the Maine Red Claws, Bostons G-League affiliate, Poirier notched 16.3 points, 9 rebounds, 2.3 assists while swatting away a team-best three blocks per game.

After a draft night unlike any other in NBA history, Presti and the Thunders front office navigated the uncharted waters confidently focused to continue building on the path of repositioning and replenishing the organization for the ultimate goal of long-term success.

It's a continuation of the things that we've talked about since last summer, which is continually trying to reposition the team after 12 years of extremely high performance results, and ultimately continuing to try to replenish our flexibility and tools for us to continue to build a platform for an elite team going forward but full well knowing that that's going to take time, said Presti on Wednesday night following the draft.

Some of the Thunders new players took to social media to express their excitement for the opportunity ahead of them in Oklahoma City. Schofield wrote in a caption on Instagram, Excited for the opportunity! Lets work! #ThunderUp

Krej also shared a message to the organization in an Instagram video saying, Id like to thank the OKC organization for putting their confidence in me, said Krej.

Im happy to be a part of this great organization and Im ready to get to work.

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The Newest Additions to the Thunder Roster | Oklahoma City Thunder - OKCThunder.com

Hawaii is welcoming travelers.

While daydreaming of the soft sand, warm ocean breezes and inviting waters of Hawaii, you have to do extra planning before making your way to the recently reopened paradise.

First, adults have to sign up for the states Safe Travels online program, which monitors visitors to the islands. Then, within 72 hours before flight departure (if you have connecting flights, the timing has to be 72 hours from the last leg), you have to take a nucleic acid amplification test from a list of approved testing and travel partners. You can choose to skip the pre-flight coronavirus test, but this will require that you quarantine for 14 days. If youve taken the first test, after landing at Honolulu International Airport, you will undergo a secondary screening.

When you are ready and safe to travel, you can rest a little easier knowing that Hawaii has a good record thus far in terms of the coronavirus. As of November 14, the state has the lowest rate of confirmed COVID-19 cases nationally (51.5 cases per 100,000 people) and the second-lowest death rate (0.2 deaths per 100,000 people), according to Hawaiis Department of Health. Of course, you should consult the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention before any trips and take any necessary precautions.

Forbes Travel Guide offers tips on what to expect on several islands and how to make the most of your much-needed Hawaiian getaway.

Make a break for the Big Island.

Keep your charger handy. As part of the Safe Travels program, youll need your cell phone throughout the pre-arrival process to upload information and to share a QR code that proves your negative test results at the airport, with ground transportation and at hotels. In addition, youll have to do daily check-ins for two weeks.

The Hawaiian style de jour is not just the aloha shirt a mask is the required clothing throughout the islands. The state mandates that everyone wears a face covering their nose and mouth in public, and businesses are to refuse entry to anyone without a mask.

Check into The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach.

Oahu

Hawaiis most populated island is ready for visitors. Many of its best attractions, including the USS Arizona, Iolani Palace, Kualoa Ranch, Waimea Valley, the Bishop Museum and the Honolulu Museum of Art, are open.

While hotels likeHalekulaniandFour Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olinaare taking this time to close and renovate (they will reopen in summer 2021 and March 11, 2021, respectively), there are plenty of excellent choices for places to stay.The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beachs soothing suites with kitchens lend themselves to extended stays, and they have been in demand since the hotel reopened. For the first time, its exclusive Sushi Sho is offering takeout. You no longer have to land a hard-to-get reservation at the intimate 16-seat restaurant to enjoy its nuanced cuisine all you have to do is place an order a day in advance.

Trump International Hotel Waikiki, which marked its 10th anniversary in 2019, is wooing couples with its wedding packages. Exchange I do on Waikiki Beach or go for a more intimate ceremony with select family and friends on a terrace overlooking the famed strip of sand, all while letting the hotel wedding planner take care of all of your needs, from the photographer to the permit.

Get your own floor at Espacio.

In September 2019,Espaciodebuted across from Kuhio Beach with nine luxurious suites, each receiving its own dedicated floor. Although the hotel wont reopen until February 2021, its Japanese-French fine-dining restaurant Mugen is creating takeaway meals, from a weekly rotating bento box to an elaborate seven-course meal with cocktail pairings.

For another boutique hotel option, try the sleek, bathed-in-white enclaveThe Modern Honolulu by Diamond Resorts. Book at least three consecutive nights Sunday to Thursday through January and youll receive a complimentary night (use the reservation code MIDWKSTAY).

Stay in one of the newly updated accommodations.

Big Island

On Hawaiis most rugged and largest island, visit Wailuku River State Park to see water gushing from the 80-foot Rainbow Falls or Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, home to two of the worlds most active volcanoes.

The islands longstanding luxury icon,Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, emerges from lockdown December 1 with a fresh look. The ongoing refurbishments include an overhaul of the rooms, a new six-bedroom oceanfront bungalow constructed next to Kumukea Beach, and the resorts top three villas are to double in space with second-story additions. New amenities are being added, including a culinary academy and a 3,000-square-foot golf instruction and practice facility.

While Four Seasons Hualalai offers four alfresco restaurants, it will introduce social-distancing-friendly private dining experiences on the beach and in remote resort areas, along with new room service menus for meals on guest room lanais.

The newMauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collectiondebuted in January and was only open for seven weeks when the pandemic forced its closure. But it opened back up November 15 and now you can take advantage of its Kainalu Ocean Adventures & Activities, where youll pair up with professional athletes for adventures in paddling, diving and more. Later this month, Gwyneth Paltrows Goop will open a permanent store in the hotel. It will be the modern lifestyle brands first Hawaii shop.

Take in the scenery from your lanai.

Maui

Experience blissful beaches and unforgettable scenery in the Valley Isle. Haleakala National Park is open (though some areas are closed) and taking reservations to see the sunrise from one of the best vantage points on the island, the summit. And cruising the 52-mile road to Hana on Mauis northeastern shore is the ultimate social-distancing activity.

Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, which reopens November 20, and the other Four Seasons hotels across the state collaborated with PS at LAX to provide private experiences for those flying on commercial flights. Book certain hotel suites and youll receive your own suite in the private terminal, which has its own TSA and customs clearance, and a luxury car will shuttle you to your aircraft. The Maui hotel also will provide 24/7 onsite physicians who can administer rapid antigen COVID-19 tests that guarantee results within 15 minutes.

Dont miss the Four Seasons Virtual Classroom, a complimentary service where kids will be supervised as they work so that parents can catch a break at the stunning pool.

Make time for the pool.

Speaking of which, youll want to spend all of your time atThe Ritz-Carlton, Kapaluas renovated three-tier pool with new in-water seating and a sun shelf. In a nod to Makaluapuna Point, a sacred outcrop fronting the property, the 10,000-square-foot pools cascading waterfalls are surrounded by lava rock. If youre on a workation, use the Ka Lumi Ao Learning Lab with individual workstations and socially spaced homework areas. Students can study on their own or with a tutor who covers everything from counting numbers to nuclear physics.

NeighboringMontage Kapalua Bayhas its own remote learning program. Montage Academy offers students in-person activities beyond their virtual curriculum, like physical education (beach clean-ups and coastal hikes) and science (discovering local flora and fauna). In December, adults can partake in the Work & Play package, which includes all office essentials (from monitor to mouse) and select gym equipment delivered to your room.

While the pandemic brought a halt to many luaus, Montage found a way to adapt. It curated an in-room experience that tells the story of the people of Polynesia through food (the family-style feast includes poke, prawns, local fish and more), dance and music from local artists.

Get close to the ocean.

The latest enhancements atWailea Beach Resort Marriott, Mauiinclude the Oceanfront Sundeck Collection 22 ground-floor rooms with extended decks and well-appointed outdoor living spaces steps from the water and a new adult pool bar named Sunsets (check out Its 5 Oclock Somewhere, a frozen mai tai crawl at each of the resorts five pools). It also will unveil Waileas only butler service in 2021.

In addition, the hotel invested $2 million to build a solar farm. The energy generated by the farm is estimated to reduce the use of oil by 1,086 barrels annually and reduce its island carbon footprint, which equals approximately 7,753 palm trees and 612 acres of tropical rain forest.

AtGrand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort, let one of the wellness ambassadors create a remote office or book a gym pod for you. They also can assist with your childs virtual schooling, arranging for desks, supplies and a tutor.

Find seclusion in Lanai.

Lanai

For a secluded and luxurious Hawaiian getaway, venture to Lanai. The states smallest inhabited island used to be a pineapple plantation, but now its main attractions are its two Four Seasons resorts, which reopen November 20.

If you want a traditional beachfront escape, head toFour Seasons Resort Lanai. But theres much to do outside of the water. Embark on hotel adventures, including an archery and shooting range session; hiking, biking or riding a 44 Jeep to explore the diverse terrain; playing a round at the Jack Nicklaus Signature Manele Golf Course; or taking a guided sunrise hike to Puupehe (or Sweetheart Rock), one of Lanais landmarks.

The adults-onlySensei Lanai, A Four Seasons Resortis a wellness destination. Ensconced in flourishing gardens, the new upcountry 96-room property boasts outdoor facilities like a 24-hour gym, movement studios and yoga spaces. A sensei guide will help you form healthier habits for personal growth, fulfillment and well-being.

Start your wellness journey here.

To help preserve the islands, the Hawaii Tourism Authority recently launched the MlamaHawaii (mlamameans to take care of something) initiative. Hotel partners like Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea will offer special packages that include a volunteer opportunity on property or with a local non-profit. Most of the offers are available through 2021 and include a free extra night when participating in the designated volunteer activity.

Each hotel offers its own promotion and volunteer project, but the latter could include planting native trees or participating in beach clean-ups.

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Where To Travel Now: Hawaii - Forbes

Ricky Rubio is one of the newest members of the Minnesota Timberwolves.

The Minnesota Timberwolves were active on draft night, to say the least. The Wolves made three picks in the top 28 and facilitated draft trades that included the departure of James Johnson and reunion of Ricky Rubio.

With all the hustle and bustle of the day, lets look at some insight on each new addition to the Wolves roster, including undrafted free agent signings. Well dive into each players previous stats over the last season, short-term and long-term outlooks, and finally what to expect from each player in 2021.

If youre simply looking for insight on the three first-round selections, check out out our immediate reaction, post-draft grades.

So kick back, relax, and learn about your new Timberwolves additions for the 2020-21 season!

The Minnesota Timberwolves added Anthony Edwards with the first-overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft.

As a freshman at the University of Georgia in 2019-20, Edwards earned Second Team All-SEC, was the SEC Freshman of the Year, and a top-fve finalist for the Jerry West Award for the nations best shooting guard.

Expect to see glimpses of brilliance early, yet dont expect an instant All-Star.

The transition to the NBA can be a hard one for rookies and there will definitely be an adjustment period for Edwards entering the 2021 season. The start of the season is one month away, meaning there will be a shortened offseason/learning period.

Edwards will also need to adjust to not being the top scoring option for the first time in his entire career.

Looking a bit further out, Edwards could absolutely become a borderline All-Star player, but that will depend largely on his work ethic. He has all the natural-born ability and athleticism to be consistently at that level, but pushing his limits in the gym and weight room will be key.

If the Wolves could get someone with a Kevin Garnett-like mentality around the facility and working with this kid and then we could practically guarantee his success.

Additionally, finding a strategic Xs & Os coach to help him play to his strengths could really go a long way, but that is a story for another day. With a true work ethic, Edwards can be an All-Star-level player. Without that piece of the puzzle, we could be looking at Andrew Wiggins 2.0.

In 2021, realistic expectations need to be set. Lets not expect a Ja Morant or Zion Williamson level of instant impact.

In a shortened offseason, with a still-inexperienced coach, and Edwards finding himself as the third option with two All-Stars on the roster already, we should be preparing for a slower start compared to last years top rookies.

There remains a real chance that he may not even start immediately. Expect for the season to start slow but the latter half to start seeing the flashes of brilliance that made him the No. 1 overall pick.

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Minnesota Timberwolves: What each 2020 draft night addition brings to the Wolves - Dunking with Wolves

This was an odd draft. It had been denigrated in many quarters. Those quarters are typically the ones that talk, almost constantly, about the top five picks. Those are the franchise defining players (one way or another), but they dont represent all that much of a draft class. When there is no clear star, or even potential star, in those top five picks, and no clear pecking order in which they should be picked, its A Bad Draft.

This draft was one that might make a team glad that a rare #1 pick hadnt settled on them. But what about later picks? There seemed to be rotation pieces, and starters, throughout the draft. This comes with the usual caveats regarding how many players actually make it from the later picks. The idea being outside the first few picks, odds arent great for many players sticking around long.

Id argue that those top picks might experience something like the same attrition if they werent freighted with franchise expectations, and tied to the jobs of various GMs and coaches. In a rational world, no one gives Wiggins the big contract he got, for example.

That aside, lets move off the top shelf of this draft for now (perhaps I can work up a Lamelo Ball slander piece). Its not that I think hes bad, just that I think the Ball family should be drafted closer to 20 than 2. But this ones different, right?

Anyhow, whats the Rockets week look like?

First, the Rockets hired an assistant coach from Australia-New Zealand NBL, Will Weaver, and look to sign his favorite player, JaeSean Tate. Jeremy Brener wrote him up here. If you are like me, and dont think too much of another NBL pick (no, not R.J. Hampton) compare their reels from Australia, and consider that this is the BEST they look. (Sure one is a kid, but the other is a street FA.) Tate is clearly quicker than almost anyone around him in that league. Hes a strong, fast, solidly-built, 64. Does that remind you of anyone? Could he be PJ Tuckers platoon? Tucker used to play around the basket more, too.

Then theres the oblique second rounder, Kenyon Martin Jr. The details of how the pick came to the Rockets are confusing, and if you want to believe it was a $4.6 million second rounder, fine. But the Rockets probably got a first round talent there. Theres absolutely nothing about Martin that suggests hes not an NBA level talent. His combine measurements prompted some to comment that he was the best athlete in the draft. He can hit the corner three, too. Its a funky shot, but its almost a set shot. If it becomes one, the pump fake and baseline drive is open. Like his dad, hes a constant physical menace. We dont know a lot, but a shot at a potentially top talent in the mid second is great value.

Finally theres undrafted signing Mason Jones. Hes an older pick, but one that could be a late bloomer. Hes a James Harden impersonator. No, really. He studied how James Harden attacks the basket and forces the defender to either concede the layup, or foul. Guess what? It worked. He had the highest FT rate in the NCAA, and one of the highest true shooting percentages. Hes a guy who started playing basketball late, shed pounds, and blossomed into a genuine menace in the NCAA. The odds are worse with older NCAA players, but this is just the sort of story to look for. This is a great interview with him.

Did the Rockets, against all expectations, get a wing, a shooting guard, and a big? They might have.

Also, some gratuitous Thunder slander, while everyone is gushing about their assets. When you can trade NBA players and picks to get The Serbian Zhou Qi #17, you pretty much are obligated to do so. To be fair, though, Zhou Qi is considerably more muscular, and played at higher levels.

No, no, Im sure hes Euro Durant. He must be, the Thunder picked him.

The week is probably just beginning for the Rockets, though. The start of FA should bring more news.

Link:
Rockets additions - The Dream Shake

Jordan Nwora is a 6-foot-7, 22-year-old wing who played three seasons at Louisville.(Photo: Jeremy Brevard / USA TODAY Sports)

If nothing else, the Milwaukee Bucks' selections in Wednesday night's NBA draft illustrated just how much they value outside shooting.

Both of their picks Jordan Nwora at No. 45 and Sam Merrill at No. 60 are among the elite shooters in this year's draft class and are both older prospects who should be capable of contributing right away off the bench. As a team constantly looking for shooting and trying to chase a championship this year, these additions seem like ideal fits.

Nwora isa 6-foot-7, 22-year-old wing who played three seasons at Louisville. He averaged 18.0 points and 7.7 rebounds per game while shooting 40.2% from long range in his final season with the Cardinals en route to earning consensusthird-team All-America honors. He particularly excels as a catch-and-shoot three-pointer shooter, a situation he may find himself playing a lot in Milwaukee as the recipient of kickout passes.

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RELATED:NBA draft 2020 tracker: First-round analysis for each pick

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Outside of college, Nwora played for Nigeria in theFIBA World Cup qualifiers in June 2018, averaging 21.7 points, 8 rebounds and 2.7 assists over three games. His father, Alexander Nwora, is the coach of the Nigerian national team.

The Bucks acquired the 45thpick hours before the draftin a deal with the Orlando Magic.

The Magic sent the Bucks pick No. 45 in Wednesday's draft in exchange for two future second-round picks. Milwaukee will send a second-round pick received from Indiana in the Malcolm Brogdon trade in either 2022, 2023 or 2024. When that pick conveys depends on picks dealt in a separate deal between Indiana and Brooklyn.

The Bucks also will send their second-round pick to the Magic in 2026 to complete Wednesday's deal.

Sam Merrill, the oldest player in the draft at 24, was chosen by New Orleans but is expected to come to the Bucks as part of a not-yet-completed deal featuring Jrue Holiday.(Photo: Orlando Ramirez / USA TODAY Sports)

Merrill isn't officially headed to Milwaukee just yet, but this year's "Mr. Irrelevant" is expected to be part of the yet-to-be-completed trade between the Bucks and New Orleans Pelicans that will send Jrue Holiday to the Bucks. Merrill is a 6-foot-5 guard out of Utah State who, like Nwora, is regarded as one of the draft's elite outside shooters.

During his four years at Utah State, Merrill shot about 42% from three-point range on a high volume of shots. He averaged 19.7 points, 4.1 rebounds and 3.9 assists per game as a senior last season while making 41.0% of his three-pointers and hitting 89.3% of his free throws.

Unlike Nwora, though, Merrill is considered to be more than just a catch-and-shoot guy. Merrill can take a shot out of virtually any action and has a quick release to get it off, even in highly-contested situations.

At age 24, Merrill was the oldest player selected on Wednesday night. He took a two-year Mormon mission to Nicaragua before starting his collegiate career.

As is the case with most rookies, there are questions about how Nwora and Merrill will perform on defense. It doesn't help that they're only about a month away the start of the NBA season. Still, their shooting should be able to translate to the next level, which is likely what the Bucks are banking on.

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Bucks grab a pair of mature shooters in the second round of the NBA draft - Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

10:21 PM ET

Tim BontempsESPN

Free-agent guard Joe Harris has agreed to a four-year, $75 million deal to return to the Brooklyn Nets, his agent, Mark Bartelstein of Priority Sports, told ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski.

Harris, 29, averaged a career-high 14.5 points per game last season for Brooklyn while shooting 42.4% from 3-point range. His return -- along with the additions of Landry Shamet and Bruce Brown in trades earlier this week -- should help the Nets provide spacing for stars Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving.

Signing Harris represents a massive financial commitment from Nets owner Joe Tsai. Brooklyn is now well into the luxury tax and still has a few open spots on its roster.

The 6-foot-6 guard resurrected his career in Brooklyn over the past four years, going from a castoff after a season-ending injury in his second year with the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2015-16 to one of the league's best 3-point shooters. Among 208 players to attempt at least 400 3-pointers since the start of 2017-18, only Seth Curry has a higher 3-point field goal percentage.

Harris' development helped the Nets recover following the 2013 trade for Kevin Garnett and Paul Pierce that left the team without control of its first-round pick for five years.

During that time, Brooklyn relied on finding underused talent to rebuild -- players such as Harris, Spencer Dinwiddie and D'Angelo Russell, who similarly resuscitated their careers.

The Nets' player-development success helped attract the attention of Durant and Irving, who signed with Brooklyn as free agents in the 2019 offseason.

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Agent - Joe Harris agrees to return to Nets on 4-year, $75 million deal - ESPN

The ballot for the Baseball Hall of Fame Class of 2021 has been revealed and former Boston Red Sox outfielder Shane Victorino is among the new additions to the list of eligible candidates.

Victorino joins a crowded ballot of 25 former players, 11 of whom are joining the ballot for the first time this year. Members of the Baseball Writers Association of America who are eligible to vote are allowed to select up to 10 candidates on their ballot.

Eight of Victorinos 12 major league seasons were spent with the Philadelphia Phillies following a brief debut with the San Diego Padres. He spent the second half of the 2012 season with the Los Angeles Dodgers before coming to Boston for parts of three seasons and then wrapping up his career with a partial season with the Los Angeles Angels.

Victorino hit .275 with a .765 OPS, 108 home runs and 231 stolen bases in his 12-year career. He was a two-time All-Star, four-time Gold Glove award winner, and a key contributor on a pair of World Series championship teams.

In three seasons with the Red Sox from 2013-2015, Victorino hit .282/.339/.418 with 18 home runs and 28 steals. He was a spark plug in the lineup who energized the club and established himself as a fan-favorite.

Victorino immortalized himself as a postseason hero with his 7th-inning grand slam in Game 6 of the 2013 ALCS against the Detroit Tigers. The game-winning blast over the Green Monster at Fenway Park sent the Red Sox to the World Series where Victorino would earn the second championship ring of his career.

Injuries limited Victorino to 30 games in 2014, paving the way for Mookie Betts to make his major league debut that year and steal the starting spot in right field.

Boston traded Victorino to the Angels at the 2015 deadline, allowing the veteran to finish his career with a contender. Los Angeles ultimately fell a game short of the Wild Card but they came a lot closer than a Red Sox team that finished in the AL East basement that year.

At least one player has been elected to the Hall of Fame in their first year of eligibility in each of the last seven years but there are no sure-fire first-ballot additions this year. Most of the new additions could be one-and-done if they fail to receive at least five percent of votes to remain on the ballot next year.

Roger Clemens, Manny Ramirez, and Curt Schilling are the other notable former Red Sox players who are holdovers on the ballot. All three are worthy based on their production but the former two stars have had their legacies tarnished by performance-enhancing drugs while the latter has cost himself votes with his combative relationship with the media members who vote for the Hall of Fame. It will be interesting to see if any of them make any progress on this years ballot.

Victorino doesnt have a Hall of Fame resume but with an underwhelming crop of first-time eligible players combined with several holdovers who remain in limbo due to their PED-tainted past, he might garner enough attention to squeeze over the threshold for staying on the ballot.

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He was never a serious MVP candidate but Victorinos multiple All-Star appearances, Gold Glove awards and postseason heroics warrant some consideration. Those who refuse to vote for the PED guys but still prefer to fill all 10 spots on their ballot could toss Victorino a vote.

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Former Red Sox outfielder among new additions to Hall of Fame ballot - BoSox Injection