TITLE: Around the Rim: Hayes-Davis Targets Record EuroLeague Deal; Mills Weighs Options; Early 2026 Cap Space Picture; Lacob Eyes Padres; Seattle Expansion Talk
SLUG: around-the-rim-hayes-davis-mills-2026-cap-lacob-seattle
CONTENT:
Veteran forward Nigel Hayes-Davis is expected to clear waivers later today after being traded from the Suns to the Bucks on Thursday and immediately released, putting him on the verge of free agency.
Hayes-Davis Could Return Overseas
The 2025 EuroLeague Final Four MVP for Fenerbahçe is considering a return to Europe and reportedly hopes to become the league’s highest-paid player. The current top salary belongs to Vasilije Micić at $5.6 million (post-tax), with Kendrick Nunn next at $5.3 million. Fenerbahçe, Panathinaikos, and Hapoel Tel Aviv have contacted his representatives, but Panathinaikos owner Dimitris Giannakopoulos said on Instagram that the forward declined the Greek club’s offer.
Patty Mills Still Looking to Play
Guard Patty Mills, who appeared for the Jazz and Clippers last season but has not played in the NBA this year, is not ready to retire. Sources told BasketNews.com that the 35-year-old is exploring EuroLeague opportunities.
Early 2026 Cap Space Projections
With the trade deadline complete, analysts Keith Smith (Spotrac) and Yossi Gozlan (The Third Apron) list the Lakers, Bulls, and Nets—in varying order—as the franchises currently positioned to hold the most salary-cap room in the summer of 2026. Exact figures remain fluid because of draft picks, cap holds, and option decisions.
Lacob Mulling MLB Bid
Golden State Warriors owner Joe Lacob is interested in purchasing the San Diego Padres and is weighing a bid before preliminary offers are due later this month, according to The Athletic.
Seattle Pushes for NBA Return
Washington governor Bob Ferguson held an introductory Zoom meeting with NBA commissioner Adam Silver on Thursday to discuss a potential league expansion that would bring the SuperSonics back to Seattle. Ferguson’s office described the conversation as positive and said the governor offered assistance as the NBA evaluates new markets. Seattle is widely viewed as a leading candidate if the league expands.
Source: HoopsRumors
