Trade Talk

That’s an interesting structure of a deal for the Cs. Opens up spots for vets in free agency.

KyleCleric wrote:That’s an interesting structure of a deal for the Cs. Opens up spots for vets in free agency.

not really as the team would be over $145M in salary next season.

kdp59 wrote:actually...IF those rumors have any truth...a BIG IF...then a three team trade will work between all those teams as follows:

Boston Gets

M.Turner- Ind
J. Holiday- NO

Indiana gets:

G. Hayward- Bos
Robert Williams- Bos
#26 and #30 picks- Bos

NO gets:

V. Oladipo- Ind
E. Kanter- Bos
C. Edwards- Bos
#14 pick- Bos



hmmmmmmmm.

I wouldn't mind seeing that one happen.

Although, in theory, I'd hate to lose all three picks, that would be the cost of doing business.

Might push the team higher into the tax, I think, but would improve the defense and the quality of the bench.

Call Danny with that one.

kdp59 wrote:

KyleCleric wrote:That’s an interesting structure of a deal for the Cs. Opens up spots for vets in free agency.

not really as the team would be over $145M in salary next season.

I meant roster spots, not cap space. Still would have exceptions for Wanamaker, mid level, etc. Cs would have a clear top 7 with Walker, Holiday, Smart, Brown, Tatum, Turner and Theis.

maybe we should resign Big baby Davis

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9rGVnvme9x8

dboss wrote:maybe we should resign Big baby Davis

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9rGVnvme9x8

DBoss,

I'd rather have the big baby in your avatar.


Bob


.

https://sports.yahoo.com/breaking-down-the-nba-freeagent-shooting-guard-market-130015884.html



Breaking down the NBA free-agent shooting guard market


Keith Smith
Thu, November 12, 2020, 4:39 PM PST·8 min read



In a free-agent class that isn’t overly deep, shooting guard features some of the better options. The top-end depth is dependent on player options, but there are solid contributors throughout this group.



DeMar DeRozan has a player option and could be on the market. (Photo by Jacob Kupferman/Getty Images)


1. DeMar DeRozan (player option)
Age: 31

DeRozan’s potential availability seems to change with each report. Yahoo Sports’ Chris Haynes reported DeRozan would opt out without a contract extension. DeRozan refuted the report, but then several others indicated he’s been unhappy in San Antonio. If DeRozan opts out, he’s clearly the best available shooting guard. DeRozan shot a career-high 53.1% this season and averaged 22.1 points per game. He’d be a solid fit for the Knicks, Pistons or Hornets if they intend to push rebuilds forward quicker than expected. That said, DeRozan is likely to opt in, and test free agency next summer.

Fits with: Spurs, Knicks, Pistons, Hornets


2. Bogdan Bogdanovic (restricted)
Age: 28

Bogdanovic is a little older than most first-time free agents due to coming over several years after being drafted. He’s proven to be a solid scoring option as a starter or reserve for the Kings. Sacramento will reportedly match any offers Bogdanovic gets as a free agent. The Kings may be forced into that, as Bogdanovic is a great fit for any of the teams with cap space this offseason.

Fits with: Kings, Hawks, Hornets, Suns, Knicks, Pistons


3. Joe Harris
Age: 29

Harris has become one of the NBA’s best shooters and did so while on a bargain contract. The Nets might not get such a nice hometown discount this time around. Brooklyn needs to keep Harris, as his ability to space the floor and play without the ball is needed in a lineup full of ball-dominant players. That ability also makes him attractive to any number of contenders, which means Sean Marks will likely have to pony up with a big offer this offseason.

Fits with: Nets, Lakers, Hornets, Clippers


4. Tim Hardaway Jr. (player option)
Age: 28

Hardaway has a tough option decision. If he opts in, he’s back in Dallas for one year at $18.9 million. If he opts out, he’ll have some solid options, but may not see much of a bump in pay. Hardaway has found a home in Dallas as kind of a designated shooter alongside Luka Doncic and Kristaps Porzingis. It’s likely Hardaway opts in and hits the market next offseason.

Fits with: Mavericks


Kentavious Caldwell-Pope has played well with the Lakers this season. (Photo by Katelyn Mulcahy/Getty Images)


5. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (player option)
Age: 27

No player improved his fortunes more during the re-start than Caldwell-Pope. For his first two years with the Lakers, Caldwell-Pope was largely written off as being there because he’s represented by LeBron James’ agency. Last season, KCP proved those skeptics wrong. He played mostly off the bench as part of a wing defense trio with Danny Green and Avery Bradley. With better spacing around James and Anthony Davis, Caldwell-Pope has also shot a career-high 47% from the floor, including 39% from behind the arc. After starting for a champion, Caldwell-Pope is now likely to test the market this offseason.

Fits with: Lakers, Hawks, Hornets, Warriors


6. Evan Fournier (player option)
Age: 28

Like Hardaway Jr., Fournier is in a tricky spot. He’s coming off a career-year for the Orlando Magic, but it’s a tough season to be a free agent. Only a handful of teams have cap space, and the cap itself has so much uncertainty right now. Fournier has a $17.2 million player option. That’s a touch lower than he could get as a free agent, making it a tough decision. If Fournier does opt out, Orlando would like to retain him. He’s their best scorer and playmaker off the dribble. He also brings some outside shooting to a team that is inconsistent at best from deep. He could also fit with a handful of the cap space teams as a top wing-scoring option.

Fits with: Magic, Hornets, Pistons, Knicks


7. Malik Beasley (restricted)
Age: 24

Since his trade to Minnesota at the deadline, we saw just how good Beasley can be with more minutes. He nearly doubled his playing time and field goal attempts with the Wolves, and it came with good results. Beasley averaged 20.7 points on 47/43/75 shooting splits. In a class short on good, young wings, Beasley would normally be a hot commodity. The challenge is he’s had some recent legal issues. That makes his market more of an unknown for a player of his potential.

Fits with: Timberwolves, Hornets, Pistons, Knicks


8. Wesley Matthews
Age: 34

Matthews has hit the “solid veteran” part of his career, but that doesn’t make him less valuable. Three-and-D wings are still prized around the league and Matthews is the best available player to fit that role. He doesn’t do much beyond spot up and defend, but that’s perfect for multiple teams, including the Bucks. And coming off a veteran minimum contract, Matthews is one of the less-expensive options in free agency.

Fits with: Bucks, Clippers, Raptors, Mavericks


9. Jordan Clarkson
Age: 28

Clarkson has finally found his ideal NBA role: scoring guard off the bench on a playoff team. He’s not good enough defensively to start, but his ability to score in bunches can turn games around. Utah’s structured offensive system also seems to have harnessed Clarkson’s former wildness in a good way. He can still create something out of nothing, but he also benefits from playing off Donovan Mitchell, Mike Conley and others. Bench scorers are always in demand, so Clarkson will have lots of options this fall.

Fits with: Jazz, Hawks, Nets, 76ers, Suns



Avery Bradley will likely be back with the Los Angeles Lakers. (Katelyn Mulcahy/Getty Images)


10. Avery Bradley (player option)
Age: 30

After a couple of tough seasons with the Detroit Pistons, Los Angeles Clippers and Memphis Grizzlies, Bradley was rejuvenated with the Lakers. Defensively, Bradley handles the opponent’s point guard. On offense, he plays off the ball as a cutter and shooter. He bounced back to 36% from behind the arc last season. Bradley’s ability to make shots and defend either guard spot will bring him suitors. The challenge is if he’ll make more than the $5 million player option he has for next season. Because of that, he’s likely to be back with the Lakers.

Fits with: Lakers, Celtics, Hawks, Warriors, 76ers


11. Justin Holiday
Age: 31

Holiday has become a good reserve. He can shoot (career-high 40.5% this season from three), handle the ball a little and he’s competitive defensively. That’s the kind of game that keeps getting him jobs. Holiday enjoys playing with his younger brother Aaron in Indiana, but keep an eye on older brother Jrue in New Orleans. The Holidays like being together, so Justin could prioritize either spot over other suitors.

Fits with: Pacers, Pelicans, Nets, Clippers, 76ers, Celtics


12. Pat Connaughton
Age: 27

Connaughton has gone from an afterthought, depth signing on a two-year, veteran minimum deal to a key contributor to the best team in the NBA. While his numbers won’t blow you away, you’re left with the sense Connaughton could put up bigger numbers with more minutes and a bigger role. That could eventually be what takes him away from the Bucks this offseason.

Fits with: Bucks, Celtics, Clippers, Rockets, Hornets, Pistons, 76ers


13. Tony Snell (player option)
Age: 29

Snell has become the type of wing shooter all good teams have. Unfortunately, the Pistons aren’t a good team. That means Snell is a bit of a luxury for them. Even more unfortunate for Detroit, who is one of the few teams with a bunch of cap space this summer, Snell has a player option for $12.2 million. It’s highly unlikely he opts out with so much uncertainty this offseason.

Fits with: Pistons


14. Bryn Forbes
Age: 27

Forbes is the kind of guy who doesn’t get many kudos, but consistently contributes to winning. Essentially, he’s the perfect Spur. Forbes is undersized for a two-guard, but his shooting is better than most. He’s a career 40% shooter from three. Forbes is probably miscast as a starter, but as a bench shooter he’d fit in anywhere.

Fits with: Spurs, Celtics, Clippers, Lakers, Bucks, Rockets, Raptors, Heat, 76ers


15. Svi Mykhailiuk (team option, restricted)
Age: 23

There is little chance Detroit lets Mykhailiuk hit the market. He’s only 23 and he shot over 40% from three this year. He’s not the kind of guy you let get away, especially when he’s signed for the minimum. If the Pistons do decline his option, Mykhailiuk will be restricted anyway. That gives Detroit the chance to match any offers he might get.

Fits with: Pistons


The Next Five

Kyle Korver shot 41.8% from three last season. (Aurelien Meunier/Getty Images)


16. Kyle Korver

Age: 39

Fits with: Bucks, Celtics, Clippers, Heat


17. Dion Waiters

Age: 29

Fits with: Lakers, Magic, Warriors


18. Jordan McRae

Age: 29

Fits with: Pistons, Magic, Clippers, Cavaliers


19. E’Twaun Moore

Age: 31

Fits with: Pelicans, Clippers, Warriors


20. Rodney Hood (player option)

Age: 28

Fits with: Trail Blazers

Other free-agent shooting guards: Dwayne Bacon (restricted), Nicolas Batum (player option), Marco Belinelli, DeAndre’ Bembry (restricted), Sterling Brown (restricted), Alec Burks, Troy Daniels, Hamidou Diallo (team option, restricted), Damyean Dotson (restricted), Courtney Lee, Theon Pinson (team option, restricted), Garrett Temple (team option), Allonzo Trier (restricted)


Bob


.

https://sports.yahoo.com/breaking-down-the-nba-freeagent-small-forward-market-013204838.html



Breaking down the NBA free-agent small forward market


Keith Smith
Thu, November 12, 2020, 3:05 PM PST·7 min read


The small forward crop of free agents features a couple of top-tier talents and then about 10-15 rotation-level players. It’s not a banner group, but outside of a couple of players, no one should break the bank. All in all, small forward could be the position where the best values are found in free agency this year.


1. Brandon Ingram (restricted)
Age: 23

Ingram and the Pelicans didn’t come to an agreement on a contract extension, but he’s likely to get a max deal in New Orleans anyway. Coming off his first All-Star appearance, Ingram has no reason to expect anything less. He’s an established wing scorer, an improving defender and an already solid rebounder and passer. The only question at this point seems to be if he’ll get a 3+1 deal from the Pelicans or a 4+1 deal? It’s hard to imagine New Orleans will even let it get to the point of him signing an offer sheet with another team.

Fits with: Pelicans


2. Gordon Hayward (player option)
Age: 30

For the first time since breaking his left leg on opening night in 2017, Hayward looked like he was back. Not just flashes of being back, but actually back. Did you know he pushed a 50/40/90 shooting season? Hayward finished at 17.5 points per game on 50/38/85 shooting splits. His defense and passing were back to his old standards as well. Health remains a concern, as Hayward missed most of the Celtics playoff run. The main question is if Hayward will opt in for $34.2 million? Or will he opt out for a long-term deal with Boston? Or could he take the Al Horford route and opt out for a new deal elsewhere?

Fits with: Celtics



Derrick Jones Jr. has found a home in Miami, but will he return next season? (Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)
3. Derrick Jones Jr.
Age: 23

Jones Jr. has found a home in Miami. His all-out style of play fits perfectly with the Heat culture. He’s become a rotation player and put up career-high stats nearly across the board. Only Jones’ lack of a three-point shot keeps him from being the kind of player who could garner $20 million a year as a free agent. The challenge for Jones is that Miami has big dreams for their cap space next summer. He could be back with the Heat on a big one-year deal, or he could get an offer elsewhere that offers more long-term security.

Fits with: Heat, Pistons, Knicks, Hawks, Mavericks


4. Jae Crowder
Age: 29

Crowder’s team-friendly five-year, $35 million dollar deal that he signed with Boston in 2015 is finally expiring. It’s just expiring four additional teams later. In part because of his easily moved contract, which complements his solid play, Crowder has been traded four times since the summer of 2017. In Miami, Crowder seems to have found the magic that made him a valuable player with the Celtics. He hit shots and defended at a high level once again. Someone will talk themselves into Crowder, but it’s unlikely to be Miami on a long-term deal. Not with the Heat’s cap space aspirations down the line.

Fits with: Hawks, Trail Blazers, Warriors, Wizards, Suns


5. Otto Porter Jr. (player option)
Age: 27

It was a lost year for Porter, just as it was a lost year for the Chicago Bulls. As injuries wrecked his year, Porter’s team was hampered by injuries as well. Now, without the benefit of seeing how he fits with Zach LaVine, Cody White and the Bulls young big men, Porter has to decide on his $28.5 million player option. Given his health issues and the lack of cap space around the league, Porter is going to opt in. He’ll bet on better health leading into a better free-agent market in 2021.

Fits with: Bulls


6. Torrey Craig (restricted)
Age: 30

After becoming the Nuggets’ best defensive player, Craig’s role was in flux this season. Michael Porter Jr. got some of the minutes Craig had played the previous year. Craig’s lack of a consistent outside shot has also kept him from locking down a rotation role. Because he’s a restricted free agent with a low qualifying offer ($2.5 million), Craig is likely to be back in Denver. The Nuggets roster is getting expensive and they don’t have the resources to add depth. That means Craig is probably back for at least one more year.

Fits with: Nuggets


7. Maurice Harkless
Age: 27

It was a bit of a topsy-turvy year for Harkless. He was included in a trade that sent him from Portland to the LA Clippers, as LA rebuilt around Kawhi Leonard and Paul George. At the trade deadline, Harkless was dealt again, this time to the New York Knicks. Despite the moves, and a smaller role in LA than the one he had in Portland, Harkless seemed to re-find his game. He was shooting over 50% from the field and nearly 35% from behind the arc. Because of his age and ability to fit in seamlessly with superstars, Harkless will have no shortage of suitors this summer.

Fits with: Rockets, Warriors, Nets, Mavericks, 76ers, Wizards


8. Josh Jackson
Age: 23

Surprised to see Jackson here? You’re not alone! Jackson was part of a salary dump when the rebuilding Grizzlies picked him up from the Suns. Memphis had more than enough wings, so they stashed Jackson in the G-League with hopes he’d figure some things out. As injuries struck the Grizzlies, Jackson was eventually called up and delivered the best play of his young NBA career. In 22 games in Memphis, Jackson averaged nine points per game on 44% shooting. That little bit of promise, combined with the fact that he’s only 23, could see Jackson high on the list of wing-needy teams this summer.

Fits with: Grizzlies, Warriors, Pistons, Knicks, Wizards, Rockets


Glenn Robinson III will likely not be in Philadelphia after this season. (Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)

9. Glenn Robinson III
Age: 26

It was a weird year for Robinson. He signed with the Warriors hoping to provide some depth for a title contender. As Golden State’s season crumbled due to injuries, Robinson turned in the best basketball of his career. He averaged 12.9 points per game on 48/40/85 shooting splits with the Warriors. However, with their season going nowhere, Golden State traded Robinson to Philadelphia at the trade deadline. Robinson wasn’t happy about the trade, and given his improved play with the Warriors, it’s not likely to be a long-term stay for him. Someone else will happily give him more than the minimum this offseason.

Fits with: Warriors, Wizards, Rockets, Celtics, Magic


10. Kent Bazemore
Age: 30

After five years as a rotation wing in Atlanta, Bazemore was a bit of a clunky fit in Portland. He was a sometimes starter, but never found his rhythm around the Blazers ball-dominant guards. A midseason trade sent him to Sacramento and Bazemore seemed to find his game again with the Kings. With his ability to fill the three-and-D role, Bazemore should have his pick of offers from contenders.

Fits with: Warriors, Rockets, Celtics, Grizzlies, Wizards, Magic


The Next Five


James Ennis III was traded from Philadelphia to Orlando last season. (Kim Klement-Pool/Getty Images)

11. James Ennis III (player option)

Age: 30

Fits with: Magic, Warriors, Wizards


12. Solomon Hill

Age: 29

Fits with: Heat, Wizards, Rockets


13. Wilson Chandler

Age: 33

Fits with: Nets, Rockets, Warriors


14. Wesley Iwundu (restricted)

Age: 25

Fits with: Magic, Hawks, Wizards


15. Michael Kidd-Gilchrist

Age: 27

Fits with: Mavericks, Warriors, Wizards, Rockets

Other free-agent small forwards: Deonte Burton (team option – restricted), Vince Carter, Melvin Frazier (team option – restricted), Treveon Graham, Marion Hezonja (player option), Stanley Johnson (player option), Malcolm Miller (restricted), Abdel Nader (team option – restricted), Semi Ojeleye (team option – restricted), Andre Roberson, Thabo Sefolosha, Evan Turner, Denzel Valentine (restricted), Kenrich Williams (restricted)


Bob


.

https://sports.yahoo.com/breaking-down-the-nba-freeagent-power-forward-market-191745735.html



Breaking down the NBA free-agent power forward market



Keith Smith
Thu, November 12, 2020, 1:56 PM PST·10 min read



No position has changed more in recent years than power forward has. If you’re a four in today’s NBA, you better be able to play up and give your team some minutes as a small-ball center. If you can’t, then you have to be able to stretch the floor as a shooter. The pure power forward is largely a thing of the past. Those players have been relegated to bench roles and reserve minutes for the most part.

The good news for this free-agent class is that the vast majority of available players fit the new-school approach. The power forward position also rivals the depth of the shooting guard class. The difference is that shooting guard features some younger, upside players, while power forward is stocked with solid veteran options.


1. Anthony Davis (player option)


Anthony Davis will be a free agent, but he will be returning to the Lakers. (Photo by Brian Rothmuller/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
Age: 27

After winning a title, Davis will opt out of the final year of his contract. Then, it’s just a question of how long Davis re-signs with Los Angeles for. If the cap is a concern, Davis could opt for a shorter contract and hit the market again when his max starting salary will push close to $40 million. If the max salary isn’t a concern, Davis will sign long-term this summer. He’s not going anywhere after spending half a year angling to get to Hollywood and winning the 2020 championship.

Fits with: Lakers


2. Danilo Gallinari
Age: 31

Gallinari had another solid season in his first year in Oklahoma City. Did you know he averaged a career-high 13.2 field goal attempts per game? Gallinari has also aged well, as he had his fourth year out of his last five in the high-teens in points per game. Most importantly, Gallinari stayed healthy for the Thunder. Because of his ability to score and stretch the floor, he’ll be in demand as a free agent this offseason. If he goes to a contender, Gallinari probably heads there via sign and trade.

Fits with: Nets, Suns, Trail Blazers, Hawks


3. Jerami Grant (player option)
Age: 26

Grant’s excellent play in the bubble changed his free-agent fortunes quite a bit. Due to some Denver injuries, he started at small forward and more than held his own. Normally, Grant has come off the bench and brings great energy to the game. Grant is able to use his cutting, and better-than-you-think spot-up shooting, to play off the Nuggets’ talented passing centers. Because of his great play during the restart, Grant has a healthy market as a free agent and will opt out.

Fits with: Nuggets, Pistons, Hornets, Trail Blazers, Hawks, Knicks, Suns


4. Davis Bertans
Age: 28

Bertans slotting in this high is a bit of a surprise, until you look at how he shoots from deep. Bertans is a career 41% shooter from behind the arc, and this season ramped up his volume big time. He nearly doubled his previous career-high in three-point attempts at 8.7 per game this season for Washington. He’s also become a decent rebounder as well. With floor-spacing more important than ever, Bertans will get paid handsomely.

Fits with: Wizards, Celtics, Nets, Suns, Hawks, Knicks


5. Montrezl Harrell



Age: 26

Is Harrell a four or a five? Does it matter? He’s just awesome off the bench. Harrell is the exact type of player teams are looking for as a backup big man. He can hold his own at either position and brings a ton of energy when he hits the floor. Harrell won Sixth Man of the Year, after coming close in 2019. This is despite his range being measured in terms of inches vs feet. Even without being able to shoot, Harrell fits in almost anywhere and he’s going to get paid for the first time in his career.

Fits with: Clippers, Hornets, Trail Blazers, Knicks, Hawks, Pistons


6. Serge Ibaka
Age: 31

Ibaka put together quite the late-career season. He averaged a career-high 15.4 points per game, and grabbed the second-most rebounds per game of his career at 8.2. He also shot 38.5% from behind the arc. Ibaka is no longer the athletic force he once was (he had fewer than a block per game for the first time), but he’s still a solid backup big man option. If the Toronto Raptors make one more run at it with their current group, look for him to get a big one-year deal. If not, he’ll have plenty of options as a free agent.

Fits with: Raptors, Trail Blazers, Lakers, Celtics, Mavericks, Clippers


7. Marcus Morris Sr.
Age: 31

Morris can play either forward spot and is equally good as a starter or coming off the bench. He’ll be 31 at the start of next season, but has the kind of game that should age well. After taking a one-year, $15 million deal from the Knicks, Morris might be looking for more long-term security. The bigger paydays might come with one-year deals, however. The Clippers gave up a first-round pick for Morris, which signals they’ll look to re-sign him this summer.

Fits with: Clippers, Nets, Lakers


8. Paul Millsap
Age: 35

Millsap is fully into the “wily veteran” phase of his career. Injuries hit Millsap again this year and he’s probably best sliding into a backup role in the next year or so. But Millsap also never shot the ball better. He hit a career-high 43.5% from behind the arc this season. His ability to defend both the four and five, and increased ability to space the floor will keep him a rotation player for at least a few more seasons.

Fits with: Nuggets, Nets, Mavericks, Suns, Lakers, Hawks


9. Derrick Favors
Age: 28

Favors is another “Is he a four or a five?” guy. He played center with New Orleans for most of this season, but with Utah, he was primarily a power forward. A big part of Favors’ value was that he can start at the four, then slide over and play as the backup five. That allows teams to run a three-big rotation. The challenge is Favors looked slow and out of sorts in the bubble. New Orleans would like Favors back alongside Zion Williamson. That would give them time to continue to develop Jaxson Hayes as the center of the future. Hayes has potential, but is very raw. If Favors is open to a short-term deal, look for him to stay with the Pelicans. If not, he’s probably headed to a contender for a year.

Fits with: Pelicans, Suns, Trail Blazers, Lakers, Nets, Clippers


10. Carmelo Anthony


Carmelo Anthony had a bounce-back season for Portland. (Ashley Landis-Pool/Getty Images)

Age: 36

Just when it looked like his career was over, Anthony signed with Portland and showed he has a lot left in the tank. You can’t build an offense around Anthony any longer, but he’s still solid enough to be a third or fourth scoring option. After a couple of years focusing on the three-ball, Anthony went back to his diverse scoring game and delivered 15.4 points per night. He also pulled down 6.3 rebounds per game. His time with Portland this year was enough to show he can still help a playoff team at the four.

Fits with: Trail Blazers, Nets, Clippers, Suns


11. Dario Saric (restricted)
Age: 26

Saric has bounced around for a couple of years now, but he’s continued to put up solid numbers. He’s become a decent shooter from behind the arc at 35.8% for his career. Saric is also a good rebounder. His numbers never look amazing, but he’s played his entire career alongside Joel Embiid, Karl-Anthony Towns and DeAndre Ayton. At just 26 years old, Saric is intriguing for a number of teams. Phoenix will have match rights, but with other holes on their roster, a big enough offer sheet could pry Saric away. The Suns may also go the cap space route, and let Saric become unrestricted.

Fits with: Suns, Knicks, Trail Blazers, Nets


12. Bobby Portis (team option)
Age: 25

Portis’ career has had a strange arc thus far. He showed plenty of promise in his first two years with the Chicago Bulls, then blossomed in years three and four. He simply hit free agency at a weird time and the Knicks fit became weird when Portis became the team’s eighth power forward. His team option will be declined and Portis will be better off going to a stable environment where he can play and continue to develop.

Fits with: Suns, Nets, Trail Blazers, Celtics


13. JaMychal Green (player option)
Age: 30

Green’s second year with the Clippers was up and down. He had some injuries and was the fourth big in the rotation for the majority of the season. When deciding on his player option, Green will have to weigh a limited role on a title contender against a bigger role elsewhere. His per-36 minutes numbers are still good. Green can be a solid rebounder and defender, and he’s become a decent shooter. One thing working against him? He doesn’t really play up as a small-ball center or down on the perimeter. That limits his opportunities.

Fits with: Clippers, Nets, Suns, Trail Blazers, Knicks, Hawks, Lakers


14. Juancho Hernangomez (restricted)
Age: 25

For a few years, we’ve wondered what Hernangomez could do with more minutes. His opportunities in Denver were very hit or miss. After being traded to Minnesota, we got an idea of what Hernangomez could do with consistent minutes. In 29 minutes per game over 14 starts, Hernangomez scored 12.9 points and grabbed 7.3 rebounds per game. He also shot 42% from deep on 4.9 attempts per game. Like his trade partner Malik Beasley, Hernangomez may have found a home with the Timberwolves.

Fits with: Timberwolves, Suns, Hawks, Trail Blazers, Knicks


15. Chris Boucher (restricted)
Age: 27

Boucher didn’t exactly come from out of nowhere, as he was an NBA prospect before tearing his ACL in his final year at Oregon, but he stepped up his game big-time. As Toronto’s frontcourt was ravaged by injuries, Boucher took advantage. He became a rotation player simply by playing with more energy off the bench than his opponents. Boucher can score inside, has a developing jumper, is a decent rebounder and a good shot-blocker. Without much cap space available, especially for restricted free agents, Toronto may be able to retain Boucher on a team-friendly deal. And, with his injury history and already being 27 years old, Boucher may look for security over a bigger payday.

Fits with: Raptors, Suns, Trail Blazers, Knicks


The Next Five

16. Rondae Hollis-Jefferson


Rondae Hollis-Jefferson played 60 games last season for the Toronto Raptors. (AAron Ontiveroz/MediaNews Group/The Denver Post via Getty Images)

Age: 25

Fits with: Raptors, Nets, Knicks, Suns, Trail Blazers


17. Markieff Morris

Age: 31

Fits with: Lakers, Nets


18. Jabari Parker (player option)

Age: 25

Fits with: Kings, Suns, Trail Blazers


19. Thon Maker (restricted)

Age: 23

Fits with: Pistons, Suns, Celtics, Lakers, Nets


20. Jontay Porter (team option, restricted)

Age: 21

Fits with: Grizzlies

Other free-agent power forwards: Bruno Caboclo, DeMarre Carroll, Cheick Diallo (team option), Jared Dudley, Wenyen Gabriel (restricted), Jeff Green, Udonis Haslem, Alize Johnson (team option), James Johnson (player option), Patrick Patterson, JaKarr Sampson, Caleb Swanigan, Noah Vonleh, Marvin Williams


Bob


.

https://www.yahoo.com/sports/breaking-down-the-nba-freeagent-center-market-212748528.html



Breaking down the NBA free-agent center market



Keith Smith
Thu, November 12, 2020, 3:33 PM PST


While the center position has gone out of vogue, big men still have value. Teams no longer build around the post, but everyone wants a solid defender and rebounder to anchor the defense. This free-agent class features a good mix of young players with upside and solid, defensive-minded veterans.



Christian Wood dominated after Andre Drummond was traded last season with a stat-line of 22.8 points, 9.9 rebounds and one block per game. (Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

1. Christian Wood
Age: 25

At first glance, you might say, “Who?” But Wood had a breakout year with the Detroit Pistons. His presence as a younger (and less expensive!) option is a big part of why Detroit was willing to trade Andre Drummond. In his first season as a full-time rotation player, Wood delivered big numbers, averaging 13.1 points per game on 56.7% shooting from the floor, while he grabbed 6.3 rebounds per game in just over 21 minutes a night. Wood also expanded his range to the arc, as he knocked down 38.6% on over two three-point attempts per contest. If that wasn’t enough, Wood dominated after Drummond was traded with a stat-line of 22.8 points, 9.9 rebounds and one block per game. He’ll be handsomely rewarded this summer, likely by the Pistons.

Fits with: Pistons, Knicks, Hornets, Suns, Hawks


2. Andre Drummond (player option)
Age: 27

Drummond is in a bit of an interesting spot. He got only eight games with the Cleveland Cavaliers after they acquired him at the trade deadline. But those eight games, and an uncertain free-agent market due to COVID-19 have it looking like Drummond will exercise his $28.7 million player option for next season. Drummond is young enough to fit with the Cavs young core, so it’ll be one more year of growing together. After that, Drummond will hit what should be a more stable and flush with cash, market in 2021.

Fits with: Cavaliers


3. Tristan Thompson
Age: 29

Thompson has had a kind of weird career. Right as he was figuring out his place in the NBA, LeBron James returned to Cleveland and the Cavs were title contenders. A few years later, James and Kyrie Irving were gone and Thompson was a luxury for a rebuilding team. Now, he’s finally a free agent. With Andre Drummond likely the Cavs center moving forward, and Kevin Love (and his giant contract) entrenched at power forward, Thompson is probably moving on. Several contenders will lineup to add the veteran big in free agency.

Fits with: Lakers, Clippers, Celtics, Warriors, Mavericks, Rockets, Nuggets



Is this the end of the road for Marc Gasol in the NBA? (Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

4. Marc Gasol
Age: 35

Could this be it for Gasol? The veteran center is fully into the role player phase of his career. Gasol is now a stretch-five, as over half of his shot attempts come from behind the arc. He’s still a solid defender and rebounder, but has slipped far from his Defensive Player of the Year days. If the Raptors run it back one more year, Gasol probably comes back. If Toronto goes another direction, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see Gasol call it a career. Or he could go home and play in Spain to wrap up his career. If he wants to keep playing in the NBA, but not for the Raptors, several contenders will offer Gasol a role as a 15 minutes per game opener in the middle.

Fits with: Raptors, Clippers, Lakers, Warriors, Nuggets


5. Aron Baynes
Age: 34

Baynes’ year with the Phoenix Suns was up and down. He missed time with injuries, but when he played, Baynes had a career-year. He nearly doubled his previous career-high, averaging 11.5 points per game, and Baynes did it by embracing the stretch-five role. He took four three-pointers per game and hit 35% from deep. If he’s willing to accept the backup center role behind DeAndre Ayton, Baynes would do well to stay in Phoenix. But as he enters his mid-30s, he might want to chase a title and should have plenty of opportunities to do so.

Fits with: Suns, Clippers, Lakers, Warriors, Celtics, Nuggets, Mavericks


6. Jakob Poeltl (restricted)
Age: 25

Poeltl was the young piece in the Kawi Leonard trade. He hasn’t become the starting center San Antonio hoped he would, but that could be more about LaMarcus Aldridge playing more at the five than expected. Centers tend to take longer to develop and Poeltl is just 25. Most encouraging? His per 36-minute line shows a double-double player who can pass and block shots. Poeltl looks like your classic late-bloomer, and that’s not a guy the Spurs will let get away.

Fits with: Spurs, Hornets


7. Harry Giles
Age: 22

The Sacramento Kings blew it when they declined their fourth-year rookie scale team option on Giles. Now, Sacramento is capped at paying him just $3.9 million (the equivalent to his fourth-year option). That’s a number that other teams can, and likely will, beat easily. Giles has had health issues, but no available center offers his mix of youth, scoring, rebounding and passing. Multiple teams would do well to offer Giles a large chunk of the Mid-Level Exception and be happy with the production they get for the next few years.

Fits with: Knicks, Hornets, Pistons, Mavericks, Warriors, Celtics, Clippers


Hassan Whiteside was perhaps having a career year with the Blazers. (Photo by Alika Jenner/Getty Images)

8. Hassan Whiteside
Age: 31

This may have been Hassan Whiteside’s best season. He’s played more minutes with Portland than all but one of his Miami years. He scored 15.5 points per game on 62% shooting. And he led the league in blocked shots at 2.9 per game, while also pulling down 13.5 rebounds a night. The challenge is that Whiteside still doesn’t play with fire on a regular basis and he’s done this contract-year thing before. Buyer beware!

Fits with: Hornets, Trail Blazers, Mavericks


9. Robin Lopez (player option)
Age: 32

Lopez joined his brother Brook in Milwaukee this season and was everything the Bucks hoped for. His defense and screening and passing on the second unit have helped Milwaukee maintain their excellent play when they go to the bench. Given the uncertain market, the Bucks being a title contender and getting to play with his brother, Lopez will likely pick up his $5 million player option for 2020-21.

Fits with: Bucks


10. Mason Plumlee
Age: 30

Plumlee has been the perfect backup to Nikola Jokic in Denver. His passing ability allows the Nuggets to run a lot of the same sets when Plumlee is in the game as they do with Jokic. He’s also a good rebounder and his defense has improved enough to where opponents don’t regularly target him. He got overpaid on his current contract, so he might be willing to take something team-friendly to stay with the contending Nuggets.

Fits with: Nuggets, Celtics, Clippers, Warriors


The Next Five


Bismack Biyombo and Willie Cauley-Stein will both be on the market this offseason. (Jacob Kupferman/Getty Images)

11. Willie Cauley-Stein (player option)

Age: 27

Fits with: Mavericks, Rockets, Clippers


12. JaVale McGee (player option)

Age: 32

Fits with: Lakers


13. Dwight Howard

Age: 35

Fits with: Lakers


14. Kelly Olynyk (player option)

Age: 29

Fits with: Heat


15. Meyers Leonard

Age: 28

Fits with: Heat, Clippers, Warriors

Other free-agent centers: Bismack Biyombo, Tyson Chandler, John Henson, Willy Hernangomez, Damian Jones (restricted), Frank Kaminsky (team option), Enes Kanter (player option), Skal Labissiere (restricted), Alex Len, Ian Mahinmi, Mike Muscala (player option), Nerlens Noel, Jahlil Okafor, Kyle O’Quinn, Ante Zizic


Bob


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bobheckler wrote:

dboss wrote:maybe we should resign Big baby Davis

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9rGVnvme9x8

DBoss,

I'd rather have the big baby in your avatar.


Bob

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Bob, did you see the video? He's so big I cannot figure out if he is coming or going

Christian Woods fits our timeline but we cannot afford him.

No one else on the list moves the needle much although Baynes would be a solid veteran addition.

https://www.yahoo.com/sports/austin-rivers-says-decline-player-150036104.html


Austin Rivers says he will decline player option with Houston, become free agent


Kurt Helin
Fri, November 13, 2020, 7:00 AM PST


Austin Rivers is on a minimum contract, he has nothing to lose.

Rivers told Mark Berman of Fox 26 in Houston that he would decline his player option for next season and become a free agent, exploring his options.

Mark Berman
@MarkBermanFox26
Guard @AustinRivers25 reiterates he’ll decline his player option with the #Rockets & explore free agency: “It’s for obvious reasons. I love Houston and I love the Rockets. It’s not like I don’t want to play there. U owe it to yourself to look at the best situations & where you..”
6:16 PM · Nov 12, 2020 from Houston, TX





Rivers also said this had nothing to do with Russell Westbrook seeking a trade out of Houston or the future of James Harden with the team. That tracks, this is simply a money thing.

Austin Rivers is scheduled to make $2.4 million next season, just above the league minimum (he played for the minimum last season and would have a small raise this season). He’s a legit NBA player and would make at least that again with another team, but by opting to test free agency Rivers makes it possible another team would offer him a little more to be their backup point guard.

It’s a thin crop of free agent point guards. Fred VanVleet will get paid well, Miami will likely give Goran Dragic a one-year oversized offer to keep him, and after that it’s D.J. Augustin, Rajon Rondo, Jeff Teague, Reggie Jackson, Trey Burke, and others of that level — all guys who will get a minimum or slightly larger offer from a team, but not more. Rivers fits in that group.

It makes sense to become a free agent for Rivers and see if he can get $3 million or a little more from a team on a few year deal to be their backup point guard. If not, he signs another minimum contract and is back exactly where he was a year ago, no real loss.


Bob


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Morey and D'Antoni destroyed that team and left town.....now everyone wnats to get as far away form Harden as they can...LOL

https://nba.nbcsports.com/2020/11/14/tom-thibodeau-reportedly-pushing-for-win-now-moves-for-knicks/



Tom Thibodeau reportedly pushing for win-now moves for Knicks



By Kurt Helin

Nov 14, 2020, 1:00 PM EST



What drives the reports that the Knicks are a potential landing spot for Russell Westbrook in a trade? Or the rumor that New York has interest in Boston’s Gordon Hayward.

It could be fueled by people partial to Knicks’ new coach, Tom Thibodeau. Unsurprisingly, Thibodeau is pushing for win-now moves, reports Stefan Bondy of the New York Daily News.

From what we’ve gathered from two sources who’ve been in contact with the Knicks about roster decisions, Tom Thibodeau is pushing win-now moves. That’s predictable. It’s how the coach is wired. Thibodeau is also a former team president who acknowledged having a say in New York’s roster construction.

This is Thibodeau’s MO. Remember, in Minnesota he traded Zach LaVine, Kris Dunn, and a first-round pick (which Chicago used to select Lauri Markkanen) for Jimmy Butler. While that Timberwolves team made the playoffs, Butler clashed with Karl-Anthony Towns and then-Timberwolves wing Andrew Wiggins, and pushed his way out the door one season later (he was traded to Philadelphia, where he played a season then took his talents to South Beach).

What is Knicks’ president Leon Rose‘s MO? Good question. Nobody knows, he’s never had a position like this before and he’s been silent about the Knicks’ intentions. Will they make a move for a Westbrook or Hayward or Victor Oladipo and add some veterans, looking to push up into the East playoffs next season? Or, will he take a slower, developmental building approach while keeping the cap space alive to chase Giannis Antetokounmpo or another superstar free agent in the 2021 offseason?

We’ll find out in the coming weeks what Rose wants to do. We already know what direction Thibodeau wants to go.


Bob
MY NOTE:  Thibs is NOT a "player development" coach like Brad is.  He wants the grizzled veterans, he doesn't want a multi-year rebuild (so why he'd sign with the NY Dumpster Fires I have no idea).  I'm not sure who he'd be willing to give up, though.  Randle?  I'll bet Danny would be interested in him.

Per an NBA Trade Machine Hayward = Randle + #8 works salary-wise.  I'm not confident of this, but they say so.

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Lakers finalizing talks with OKC to trade Danny Green plus the Lakers' #28 pick for Dennis Schroder.

Jeez, Danny. You didn't see this coming?


Bob


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Nov. 20: Start of free agency


Although the free-agency period opens on Nov. 20, only negotiations will be permitted at that time, with actual signings not allowed until Nov. 22. Then it will be a quick turnaround for the start of training camps on Dec. 1.  


Bob
MY NOTE:  It doesn't matter when the contracts are signed (unless you're DeAndre Jordan).

Draft Day is this Wednesday.  Free Agency is this Friday.  Camp begins 2 weeks from Tuesday.

I like off-seasons like this...

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here's one I didn't see coming at all

Farbod Esnaashari: A source is telling me that the Nets have engaged in talks with the Rockets. James Harden for a variation of: Spencer Dinwiddie, Caris LeVert, Taurean Prince, and Jarrett Allen. Nothing finalized, but Harden to Nets seems like real possibility. If finalized, announced on Nov 22. – via Twitter Farbod_E

Harden AND Irving on the same team...how many balls they gonna use?

kdp59 wrote:here's one I didn't see coming at all

Farbod Esnaashari: A source is telling me that the Nets have engaged in talks with the Rockets. James Harden for a variation of: Spencer Dinwiddie, Caris LeVert, Taurean Prince, and Jarrett Allen. Nothing finalized, but Harden to Nets seems like real possibility. If finalized, announced on Nov 22. – via Twitter Farbod_E

Harden AND Irving on the same team...how many balls they gonna use?

Kdp,

Why wait until 11/22?  No free agents involved, it could be announced tomorrow.

IF TRUE my gut says the odds of the rumored Hayward to NYK trade goes up.  Knicks would want to keep pace with their crosstown rivals.  I don't know what that trade would look like, though.  The Knicks have the #8, but what players could they throw in that would move the salary needle?


Bob


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THE MORATORIUM ON TRADES IS LIFTED ON

MONDAY 11/15 @ NOON EST.

Gonna start getting crazy starting lunchtime (for most of you) tomorrow.


Bob


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The Knicks can clear up cap space to absorb Hayward's salary by not picking up Portis, Gibson and Ellingtons' options (would get them about $31M under the cap ).

But Hayward for the #8 Pick only?

that would seem to be selling low, unless Ainge already has that deal in place to send #8 to NO for Holiday.

I really don't see anyone else on the Knicks roster I would want except for RJ Barrett. and are the Knicks really that dumb to trade Barrett and #8 for an expiring Hayward?

they are the Knicks I guess, so one never knows.

to me it all sounds like some wishful thinking by the Knick or their fans to get ANY quality NBA player to add to the roster.

There’s no way New York should give up the #8 pick for Hayward.
How many more wins will that bring New York?
That’s if Gordon can stay healthy.
The Knicks need to take their lumps and not waste draft picks or their few young, good pieces for 30+ year old veterans who will do little to make them better.

All these rumors are started on those blogs, guys making up crazy trades, just thinking that if they can match the numbers it will all be fine and dandy. Boy, thank God this is coming to an end soon. I just read three trades that were absolutely ridiculous. I give up, it cannot come soon enough. I can imagine how Hayward feels right now. Who would want to come back to a place where so many fans want him gone. UGH

tjmakz wrote:There’s no way New York should give up the #8 pick for Hayward.
How many more wins will that bring New York?
That’s if Gordon can stay healthy.
The Knicks need to take their lumps and not waste draft picks or their few young, good pieces for 30+ year old veterans who will do little to make them better.

yea but it IS the Knicks...so get them to send us Barrett too for a bag of balls!!

All trades and stuff from around the league goes here, but any CELTICS trades should get their own thread (at least, that's what I plan on doing).  There'll be a lot of posts about any trade Danny makes so let's not make this thread an extra couple of pages longer and bury info that deserve to see the light of day too.


Bob


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