NBA Trade Rumors: Latest on Grizzlies, Celtics and more
Feb 7, 2013; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Boston Celtics forward/center Kevin Garnett (5) raises his right arm in celebration during the last minutes of the fourth quarter against the Los Angeles Lakers at TD Banknorth Garden. The Boston Celtics won 116-95. Mandatory Credit: Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports
Zach Randolph will most likely stay in Memphis…
Several rumors have mentioned that Zach Randolph might be the next one out of the door, despite the fact that the Memphis Grizzlies solved their immediate luxury tax issues by trading Rudy Gay. According to Ronald Tillery, of Commercial Appeal, Randolph will most likely stay in Memphis:
After trading Rudy Gay, most expected Memphis to move forward with the team that they had, but the constant trade rumors seem to have had an effect on the team, as the Grizzlies have lost 3 out of their last 4 games.
…but the Grizzlies are not done dealing?
According to Ric Bucher, the Grizzlies are still open to making deals, but they will not look to strip the roster of its remaining core. Instead they could look to add some pieces to fill out the recently acquired cap space. The Boston Celtics could be a potential partner in trade talks:
"Acquiring SG Courtney Lee, who Boston would consider flipping for some frontline help, was discussed but the Celtics aren’t looking just to drop salary but add size."
Since Rajon Rondo tore his ACL, the Celtics have been on a roll, which has in turn cooled down most of the trade rumors. Still, the Celtics could still be active before the deadline and mix it up by trading some of the team’s complimentary pieces.
Latest on the Bargnani – Boozer trade rumor
Last night Marc Stein broke the news that the Chicago Bulls and the Toronto Raptors had engaged in trade discussion for a blockbuster deal. The Chicago Tribune expanded on the possible trade today:
"Though talks are not currently active, a source said the Raptors know the trade is available and could expand to include Nate Robinson and John Lucas III. Another source suggested it’s unlikely the Raptors would take on Boozer’s contract, which has $9.1 million more than Bargnani’s over the next two seasons."
Ever since signing for the Chicago Bulls, Carlos Boozer has not met the expectations, although he has played quite well recently. On the other side, the Raptors are openly wanting to get rid of Bargnani, but the question whether Boozer is worth the extra money remains. Boozer and Rudy Gay would most likely be able to carry the team into the playoffs next year, but Boozer will be owed over $32 million over two years after this season, which the Raptors could consider to be too much.
Andre Miller unhappy?
Andre Miller’s name has not really been tossed around in the rumor mill, but the 36-year-old veteran has made it clear that he is not particularly happy with his current situation in Denver. According to Gazette.com, Miller said:
"“I want more minutes,” Miller said. “If we were losing I would really be complaining. But it’s going as it goes.”“I don’t know how much longer they want me here. I definitely would like to contribute more,” Miller added when I asked if he wants to finish in Denver. “I’m not just going to sit back and settle in and be a backup and let my career just fade away. I’m competitive in that way.”"
The Denver Nuggets lack a franchise player, and while the team is very solid it is hard seeing them being a true contender. Ty Lawson is running the show at the point guard position for Denver and while Andre Miller might not request a trade just yet, he isn’t happy with the current situation.
For all the latest trade rumors, news and updates stay tuned to KJG and follow Vytis on twitter: @VytisLasaitis
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