NBA Draft Notes: Bucks Target Nate Ament, Pelicans Explore Lottery Options, Suns Issue Qualifying Offers, Pacers Weigh Backup Centers
nba-draft-notes-bucks-ament-pelicans-lottery-suns-qualifying-offers-pacers-centers
Milwaukee, WI — The Milwaukee Bucks remain closely linked to Tennessee forward Nate Ament as the June 26 draft approaches. League sources told The Stein Line’s Jake Fischer that general manager Jon Horst and new head coach Taylor Jenkins recently traveled to meet with the 6-foot-9 prospect, who is viewed by some executives as a potential top-10 pick. Rival clubs believe the 10th selection, held by Milwaukee, represents Ament’s draft floor. The Clippers, Nets and Mavericks have also shown interest.
Pelicans Working to Reenter Lottery
New Orleans continues to search for a way back into the top 14, with Fischer reporting that the Pelicans are interested in Ament should they secure a lottery pick. Golden State owns the No. 11 choice and has been linked to Pelicans wing Trey Murphy III. While the Pelicans are reportedly open to discussions involving Murphy, one opposing executive said the asking price remains steep.
Suns Extend Offers to Williams and Brea
The Phoenix Suns tendered qualifying offers to center Mark Williams and guard Koby Brea, making both players restricted free agents, according to Keith Smith of Spotrac. Williams, acquired from Charlotte last summer, averaged 11.7 points and 8.0 rebounds in a career-high 60 appearances but missed time late with injuries. Phoenix has repeatedly signaled a desire to retain the 7-footer and is also focusing on new contracts for guards Collin Gillespie and Jordan Goodwin.
Pacers’ Backup Center Competition
Indiana’s depth chart at center could shift during training camp. Tony East of Circle City Spin reported that Micah Potter and Jay Huff are expected to compete for reserve minutes behind starter Ivica Zubac. Potter enters an option year, while Huff remains on a minimum contract.
Source: Hoops Wire
