• The promise of Hong Kong fades.

When the British colony returned to Chinese rule 20 years ago, it was seen as a prosperous and modern example that Beijing could emulate.

But the city’s democratic evolution, sought by a majority of the population, has stalled.

The Chinese president, Xi Jinping, arrived in the territory today for ceremonies marking the anniversary. Follow our live briefing.

• A bright side for the Knicks, maybe.

The team ousted Phil Jackson, its president, on Wednesday and needs years of rebuilding without interference, our sports columnist writes. (Gone, too, is Jackson’s much-maligned triangle offense.)

• Best of late-night TV.

On “Full Frontal,” Samantha Bee expressed concerns about the Senate health care bill. “It turns out, 13 rich white guys alone in a room isn’t how good legislation happens.”

• Quotation of the day.

“I made eye contact with a couple of people, and they made a sad face. I guess it was a nice human moment.”

— KC Brown, a subway rider who thought she had a second chance to board a crowded train when the doors reopened, but the car was too full.

Back Story

Estonia, the smallest of the three Baltic States, takes on a big task for the first time this week: the rotating presidency of the Council of the European Union.

The six-month role will give the country an outsize voice in European politics, and leaders will converge on Tallinn, the capital, for meetings.