NBA Trade Rumors: Latest trade and free agent rumors
We are less than a month away from the Feb. 21 trade deadline and it is once again time to break down the latest rumors around the league.
Jan 28, 2013; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Memphis Grizzlies forward Rudy Gay (22) celebrates making the game winning shot with forward Zach Randolph (50) during the fourth quarter against the Philadelphia 76ers at the Wells Fargo Center. The Grizzlies defeated the Sixers 103-100. Mandatory Credit: Howard Smith-USA TODAY Sports
Toronto Raptors interested in Rudy Gay
By dumping some contracts in a trade with the Cleveland Cavaliers, the Memphis Grizzlies naturally killed off a lot of the rumors surrounding Rudy Gay and Zach Randolph. Despite solving the immediate luxury-tax issue, it seems like Memphis are still taking calls from teams that are interested in acquiring Gay’s services, according to Mark Stein, of ESPN,
Now, the Grizzlies are not actively seeking to break up the core of the team, but the Toronto Raptors are, allegedly, persistent in wanting to make a deal for Gay.
While Andrea Bargnani, Ed Davis, Kyle Lowry and Jose Calderon are all tradeable, it would probably take a third team to set up a functioning deal.
The Boston Celtics, who recently lost Rajon Rondo for the season (torn ACL), could very well decide to start the rebuilding process right now. Paul Pierce would most likely have to be part of a potential 3-way trade, but it is uncertain whether the Celtics are ready to break the bond with the long-serving small forward.
January 27, 2013; Orlando FL, USA; Orlando Magic shooting guard J.J. Redick (7) reacts after he made a three pointer against the Detroit Pistons during the first quarter at Amway Center. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
J.J. Redick’s future in Orlando remains uncertain
Redick is undoubtedly the most valuable trading block that the Orlando Magic currently possess, and it seems that he has come to terms with the fact that his name will continue to circulate in the rumor mill for at least another 3 weeks.
According to RealGM, Redick said this of his situation:
"“My agent (Arn Tellem) has kept me in the loop and Rob has kept me in the loop,” said Redick. “Nothing is imminent, nothing is in the foreseeable future. I expect that there will be more discussion, more serious discussion I should say, around the deadline. If I’m here, I’m here. If I’m not here, I’m not here. There’s nothing I can do to control that situation.”"
The Magic have to make a decision on whether Redick is worth a long-term contract, as he himself wants to stay in Orlando, or if he should be dealt before the deadline.
A couple of weeks ago it was reported that the Celtics covet Redick. With the tricky situation brewing in Boston, the two teams could very well look to work something out.
Dec 16, 2011; Portland, OR, USA; Portland Trailblazers center Greg Oden (52) poses for a photo during media day at the Rose Garden. Mandatory Credit: Craig Mitchelldyer-USA TODAY Sports
Miami Heat, Cleveland Cavaliers on top of Greg Oden’s list?
A lot of teams have expressed an interest in signing Greg Oden, who is recovering from his chronic knee issues.
CBS Sports report that the 7-footer is leaning towards signing a contract with either Miami or Cleveland. Oden will, reportedly, visit the Heat and meet with GM Pat Riley next week.
The Cavaliers have the obvious advantage of offering the free agent more money, as the Heat could, realistically, only offer him a minimum salary.
However, Pat Riley is known for being able to convince free agents to take less money, in order to play for the title contender that is the Miami Heat, so it wouldn’t be surprising if Riley worked his magic once again.
May 23, 2012; Philadelphia, PA USA; Philadelphia 76ers former guard Allen Iverson before the start of game six against the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference semifinals of the 2012 NBA Playoffs at the Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports
Allen Iverson won’t play for the Mavericks’ D-League affiliate
It was recently reported that the Dallas Mavericks reached out to former superstar Allen Iverson, offering him a spot in the D-League.
Today Iverson announced that he would not play in the D-League over his twitter:
"I thank Donnie and Dallas for the consideration and while I think the D-League is a great opportunity, it is not the route for me.I realize my actions contributed to my early departure from the NBA, should God provide me another opportunity I will give it my allMy dream has always been to complete my legacy in the NBATo my fans, I love yall! Not a day goes by that I am not asked when am I coming back, we all must accept my return is not up to just me"
The 37-year-old Iverson has not played professional basketball since leaving the Turkish team Besiktas in 2011. By refusing to play in the D-League, A.I. has made his return to the NBA highly improbable.