As free agency approaches, there have been many NBA rumors. Justin Herbert from the Los Angeles Chargers spoke to the NFL about how the team can succeed in this season. And there’s an update on the possible fate of Deshaun Watson in the NFL.
NBA Roundup:
In the off-season, Lillard will be offered a $100 million extension by the Portland Trail Blazers to his deal as a star guard. Lillard stated in his past that he would stay in Portland to try and win the championship with the Blazers. He is one of a few NBA players who remains loyal to their team. As they seek to make the Blazers a contender for the playoffs, Jerami Grant was traded by them.
Toronto Raptors guard Fred VanVleet is expected to sign an extension of his four-year deal worth nearly $100 million. VanVleet will be an integral part of any Raptors run. VanVleet averaged 20.3 points and 6.7 assists per season. He also aided in 4.4 rebounds and 1.7 steals.
Initial indications suggest that Tyler Herro, the Miami Heat’s guard, will agree to a contract that would allow him to make nearly $25 million annually. Herro, who is only 22 years old, still has plenty of potential to improve and grow his game. Victor Oladipo, who is set to undergo free agency testing, will be able to give Herro a larger role and more responsibilities.
Rival NBA teams have mentioned Washington Wizards forward Kyle Kuzma as “available for trade.” Kuzma had a decent season last year, averaging 17.1 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 3.5 assists. Many teams could use Kuzma’s offensive skills, but he has shown to be a liability on the defensive end.
Mitchell Robinson, the New York Knicks’ center, will reportedly re-sign on a nearly $60million deal. Robinson is not yet playing up to his full potential, with an average of 8.5 points and 8.6 rebounds per game, along with 1.8 blocks, last season. Robinson is expected to be an important force in the post for many years.
Malik Monk was previously a free agent and stated that he would like to come back to the Los Angeles Lakers, but on a smaller salary. It seems now that Monk is looking for better deals. Monk played a significant role in last season’s team, alongside Russell Westbrook and LeBron James. Monk scored 13.8 points last season on 47.3% shooting and 3.4 rebounds. He also had 2.9 assists.
Bradley Beal, Washington Wizards’ star guard, declined the $36 million option. Beal is free to enter the market and many playoff teams are interested. Beal was averaged at 23.2 points and 6.6 assists per game last season.
Milwaukee Bucks forward Bobby Portis is “destined” to sign a four-year deal, worth around $40 million, to remain in Milwaukee. Portis had 14.1 points and a shooting percentage of 47.9%, with 9.1 rebounds. Portis will likely be Giannis Antetokounmpo’s backup center and starting point forward.
James Harden of the Philadelphia 76ers declined his $47.4,000,000 player option. Although he has entered free agency, it is likely that he will re-sign for the Sixers.
Patty Mills, Brooklyn Nets’ guard, declined his $6,000,000 player option. He will be entering free agency.
New York Knicks, Miami Heat and Dallas Mavericks have expressed interest in Dallas Mavericks Guard Jalen Brunson. Brunson will need to be offered a $125 million contract for five years if the Mavericks wish to sign a new deal. Brunson is likely to meet with each of the three teams but the Knicks stand out as the frontrunner.
Russell Westbrook is eligible to receive a $221 million four-year extension. Westbrook’s contract expires in the 2022-2023 seasons.
“Rival executives” think that the Lakers could target Chicago Bulls guard Coby White when free agency opens tomorrow. White is expected to be Westbrook’s backup if Westbrook signs with the Lakers.
If Jae Crowder leaves Phoenix Suns, the Miami Heat are the favourites to sign him. After losing P.J. The Heat are looking to bring Tucker back to the Sixers and replace Tucker by Crowder.
Dejounte Murray was traded to Atlanta by the San Antonio Spurs. He is now the San Antonio Hawks’ Dejounte-Murray trade. For the full story to the trade and analysis, see RedState’s report from earlier: NBA Analysis: San Antonio Spurs Trade Dejounte Murray to the Atlanta Hawks
NFL Roundup:
Justin Herbert, star quarterback of the Los Angeles Chargers discussed his expectations for a successful season. SiriusXM NFL Radio interviewed him about:
“It’s all about consistency. We have to put together a full season for us to play the football that we want to.”
The Chargers added a lot of defensive firepower — edge rusher Khalil Mack, cornerback J.C. Jackosn, and veteran Kyle Van Noy. Los Angeles selected Zion Johnson as an offensive lineman to protect Herbert during the new season.
The NFL is more likely to accept the judge’s ruling, if Deshaun Watson is suspended. Earlier, it was reported that NFL is “more likely” to accept a six-to-eight-game suspension, and they will not appeal. This hearing will go on through Thursday.