Drew Gooden: Latest News, Rumors, Speculation on Free-Agent Forward
Drew Gooden is coming off his worst season in the NBA, but that might not keep the 34-year-old from finding employment this summer.
Continue for updates.
Gooden Fielding Interest from Teams
Thursday, July 7
According to The Undefeated's Marc J. Spears, the Toronto Raptors, New York Knicks, Los Angeles Clippers and Los Angeles Lakers have contacted the free-agent big man.
Earlier Thursday, ESPN.com's Marc Stein reported the Washington Wizards had released Gooden to free up salary-cap space. In 30 games last year, Gooden averaged 2.7 points and 2.8 rebounds per contest. His three-point shooting was a disaster, as he made just 17.1 percent of his attempts from beyond the arc.
Even as a role player, Gooden might not be able to contribute much for a new team unless he can turn back the clock. He shot 41.2 percent and 39.0 percent from three-point range in 2013-14 and 2014-15, respectively. But after a dreadful year in the nation's capital, that version of Gooden may never come back.
Gooden's presence could have a positive impact in the locker room, though, which may be the biggest motivator for teams looking to sign him. He has been in the league for 14 years and made six trips to the playoffs.
With most of the top frontcourt options already off the market, some general managers may be looking toward cost-effective veterans such as Gooden to fill out their rosters.
