NBA Rumors: Examining Potential Moves from Around the League
The NBA rumor mill has slowed down since the first week of free agency, but general managers aren't done trying to improve their rosters.
Although the big names are off the board, organizations will keep looking for quality talent either through free agency or trades right up until the start of the regular season and possibly beyond. For the teams that still have a lot of space, look for some aggressive moves in the coming weeks.
There is still a lot of work to do as the offseason progresses, but here is a look at the latest rumors from around the league.
Dion Waiters to the Nets?
The Philadelphia 76ers—a team that is desperate for perimeter scoring—appeared to be a good fit for Dion Waiters this offseason, but the two sides are far apart on any potential deal, according to Keith Pompey of the Philadelphia Inquirer. The restricted free agent is reportedly not willing to accept just a two-year deal being offered.
On the plus side for Waiters, there is reportedly interest coming from the nearby Brooklyn Nets.
Brian Lewis of the New York Post noted the team's plan:
"As The Post has reported, the Nets have maintained interest in the Thunder’s Waiters, but after losing out on both [Allen] Crabbe and [Tyler] Johnson when Portland and Miami matched two contracts worth a combined $125 million, that interest has intensified.
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League personnel believe Oklahoma City would match two-year offers for the career 12.8 ppg scorer, meaning it could take a sizable four-year deal to convince the Thunder to let him go.
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The Nets were unable to keep either Tyler Johnson or Allen Crabbe after both restricted free agents agreed to an offer sheet, but they will hope third time's the charm with Waiters.
Still, returning to Oklahoma City remains a decent possibility for the shooting guard. The Thunder already lost Kevin Durant, and while there is a big difference between the two perimeter scorers, Waiters could at least help the squad remain competitive. He could also see an increased role next season.
It might simply come down to how desperate the Nets, or the 76ers, are to bring in the young guard.
Anthony Bennett Back in the League?
While he is already considered one of the biggest draft busts in history, Anthony Bennett's career might not necessarily be over.
The former No. 1 overall pick scored just 28 points in 19 games last season for the Toronto Raptors before being waived in March. However, there appears to be a chance he could return next season, according to Michael Scotto of the Associated Press:
Whether they add Waiters or not, the Nets are desperate to add talent. According to Yahoo Sports, they have over $28 million left in cap space, but they have had a hard time convincing top players to join the organization.
This is generally what happens with a team that won just 21 games last year and will likely be worse going forward.
So when you don't have draft picks and can't sign free agents, it's important to get creative and take chances. This is what the team would be doing with Bennett, who clearly has upside thanks to his athleticism and decent jump shot.
Considering the forward is still just 23 years old, this would be a worthwhile risk for Brooklyn.
Jimmy Butler Staying Put?
One of the biggest stories on draft night was the pursuit of Jimmy Butler. Derrick Rose was already gone, and it appeared as though the Chicago Bulls were ready to rebuild.
General manager Gar Forman later denied the fact he was shopping the All-Star, per Nick Friedell of ESPN.com: "We never made a single call. We're not looking to move Jimmy."
However, it's clear there was at least some discussion regardless of who initiated the calls.
Despite the interest, however, Butler no longer seems on the brink of being traded.
Zach Lowe of ESPN.com reported, "Butler is off the market for now, per league sources, and it's tempting to read Chicago's all-in splash as an effort to maintain a winner around him."
Chicago did add Rajon Rondo and Dwyane Wade to try to contend for a playoff spot. On the other hand, letting Pau Gasol and Joakim Noah go means the team is unlikely to really be a threat in the Eastern Conference.
Lowe also added: "There just doesn't appear to be a real plan beyond buying time." Butler could still be traded down the line for picks and young assets to key a turnaround while the short-term deals of Rondo and Wade won't slow things down too much.
Considering there aren't often players of Butler's caliber available for trade, willing teams should continue to monitor this situation.
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