NBA Trade Rumors: Latest Trade and Free Agency Buzz Around The League
While the NBA Finals are right around the corner, the rest of the league is not just watching. There are a lot of rumors around the NBA right now, with teams considering potential trades before the NBA Draft and free agents starting to consider their future destinations. Here are the latest rumors around the league.
May 15, 2013; Miami, FL, USA; Chicago Bulls point guard Nate Robinson (2) shoots over Miami Heat point guard Mario Chalmers (15) in the first half in game five of the second round of the 2013 NBA Playoffs at American Airlines Arena. Mandatory Credit: Robert Mayer-USA TODAY Sports
Nate Robinson considering a return to New York
With Derrick Rose making a return to the Chicago Bulls lineup next season, the team will have a stacked backcourt which will naturally push Nate Robinson back in the rotation. As such, Nate would welcome a return to the Knicks. Carmelo Anthony has said that he would like to see the team add another scorer, and Robinson fits the description. After a successful postseason, Nate’s value is going to be up in the open market, and New York has limited money to spend, but the two parties could potentially reunite.
June 7, 2012; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Celtics shooting guard Ray Allen (20) works for the ball against Miami Heat small forward LeBron James (6) during the first half in game six of the Eastern Conference finals of the 2012 NBA playoffs at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports
Ray Allen to opt out and sign with the Boston Celtics?
People close to Ray Allen claiming he is thinking about opting out of his contract hoping to return to Boston for 1 year & retire a celtic.
— Patrick J. Gilroy (@GilroyonHoops) June 3, 2013
This rumor sounds far-fetched and highly improbable. After leaving the Celtics to join the Heat, why in the world would Allen opt out of his contract and return to Boston? He was obviously attached to the franchise and many would have liked to see him retire a Celtic, but surely it is too late now? Besides, would the fans and the team be happy to let Allen return to the team? We’ll choose to shoot this one down.
May 16, 2013; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks shooting guard J.R. Smith (8) during the fourth quarter against the Indiana Pacers in game 5 of the second round of the 2013 NBA Playoffsat Madison Square Garden. Knicks won 85-75. Mandatory Credit: Anthony Gruppuso-USA TODAY Sports
JR Smith will opt out of contract with Knicks
According to ESPN, New York Knicks Sixth Man of the Year, JR Smith, will opt out of the final year of his contract worth $2.9 million. After an overall great season, Smith will look for a long-term deal, but he has previously said that he wants to re-sign with the Knicks. He would probably be able to get more money than the Knicks can offer in the open market, but it is still quite likely that he will return to the team next season.
Apr 29, 2013; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Hawks forward Josh Smith (5) struggles to keep the ball away from Indiana Pacers center Ian Mahinmi (28) in game four of the first round of the 2013 NBA playoffs at Philips Arena. Mandatory Credit: Marvin Gentry-USA TODAY Sports
Philadelphia 76ers target Josh Smith, Houston’s plan b?
If Rockets are unable to recruit Dwight Howard, I'm told second preference is Josh Smith. Sixers also targeting Smith, says a source
— Peter Vecsey (@PeterVecsey1) June 3, 2013
Josh Smith is one of the top free agents this summer and will naturally be highly coveted. The Atlanta Hawks have shown no interest in re-signing Smith, as the team clearly does not believe that he is worth a max contract. However, the 76ers, who will probably let go of the failed investment that is Andrew Bynum, could target Smith.
Houston Rockets are trying to take Dwight Howard away from the Los Angeles Lakers. Still, the Rockets realize that signing Howard is far from a done deal as a lot of teams are going to try to lure him in. If Howard does end up staying with the Lakers or going elsewhere, Smith is apparently plan b.
Dec 29, 2012; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves forward Kevin Love (42) against the Phoenix Suns at the Target Center. The Timberwolves defeated the Suns 111-107. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports
Minnesota Timberwolves not trading Kevin Love to Cleveland Cavaliers
Source also repeated what different source said earlier in week: Wolves going out of way to make it clear Kevin Love is not available.
— Sam Amico (@AmicoHoops) June 1, 2013
It is well- known that the Cavaliers are openly shopping the first overall pick in the 2013 NBA Draft, and the team had their crosshairs set on the versatile Kevin Love. However, it seems the Wolves have no intention of letting go of their superstar, who was limited due to injuries last season.