The Zach Randolph Trade Watch Starts Now

The Zach Randolph Watch Begins
The World Famous LayupDrill Rumor Mill
11/13/08

Mike D’Antoni and the New York Knicks seem determined to make some moves before the holidays.

Though Knicks management continue to say they are not ready to waive Stephon Marbury, NY Newsday is reporting that the Nuggets, Cavs, and Bulls have all expressed interest in Zach Randolph.

Randolph, who up until arriving in New York was a 20 and 10 guy, is only 27-years old, and his best is yet to come.

If a team like Cleveland can land Randolph to compliment King James, it might actually be a better fit than if the Cavs signed Antonio McDyess.

In other possible moves, DallasBasketball.com is reporting that the Mavs and Bulls are in a bidding war over free agent guard Lindsey Hunter. Chicago is looking for Hunter to fill the void opened by the injury of Kirk Hinrich. Dallas is looking for Hunter to be a much-needed veteran backup to Jason Kidd. Word is Hunter will be making his decision as early as today.

Former Sonic great and current NBA TV analyst Gary Payton almost came out of retirement to play this season.

No, not in the league, but overseas, in China. Payton’s agent was in talks with the Shanxi Zhongyu team, but the two sides could not agree over salary. Reportedly, Payton was being offered $50,000 for 1 season, and Payton wanted $100,000. I’m pretty certain he is making more than that sitting in the NBA TV studio with Ahmad and C-Webb talking trash nightly.

We reported yesterday that the Lakers coach Phil Jackson was not going to commit to any long-term contract in the current season, and how the signing of Jackson will have a direct effect on if Kobe resigns with LA next summer.

The LA Times is reporting this morning that former Laker great, and current New Orleans Hornets coach Byron Scott, has always been intrigued about coaching his former team. The native of Inglewood, CA had his glory days as a player in a Laker uniform, and the possibility of coaching a roster that is loaded. Byron’s current contact with New Orleans ends after the 2009-10 season. Stay tuned.