Lakers Interested in Mitchell Robinson; Pistons in Stalemate With Duren, Clippers Field Leonard Inquiries
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The Los Angeles Lakers are prepared to extend center Mitchell Robinson a long-term deal at roughly the value of the non-taxpayer mid-level exception once free agency opens, according to ClutchPoints’ Brett Siegel. The Brooklyn Nets are also viewed as a contender for the New York Knicks veteran, who enters the market as an unrestricted free agent.
Knicks weigh alternatives
Should New York decline to re-sign Robinson amid owner James Dolan’s second-apron concerns, the front office is considering less expensive options in Nick Richards and Kevon Looney, Siegel reports. Richards’ agent, Max Saidman of CAA, has a longstanding relationship with president Leon Rose, while Looney maintains ties to head coach Mike Brown.
Duren seeks max, Pistons resist
Siegel confirms that contract talks between the Detroit Pistons and restricted free-agent center Jalen Duren, 22, remain far apart. Duren is requesting a maximum-salary deal, but Detroit has yet to make such an offer and is not entertaining sign-and-trade scenarios.
Lakers explore other front-court options
Los Angeles is not expected to pursue Duren this offseason, per Siegel’s sources. The club does hold interest in Naz Reid, though the Charlotte Hornets—who recently obtained Reid in the Lonzo Ball trade with Minnesota—have indicated no plans to flip the center. Charlotte is, however, open to moving forward Miles Bridges.
The Lakers have also been linked to Dallas Mavericks center Daniel Gafford. Dallas was reportedly willing to discuss Gafford earlier this week if it could secure a second top-20 draft pick—the Mavericks selected Morez Johnson at No. 9—but the team’s current stance is uncertain.
Market forms for John Collins
Free-agent forward John Collins is drawing interest from the Chicago Bulls and San Antonio Spurs, Siegel writes, while the Philadelphia 76ers could also emerge as a suitor. Philadelphia may likewise consider unrestricted free agent Dean Wade.
Clippers listen on Kawhi Leonard
League sources tell Siegel the Los Angeles Clippers are not actively shopping Kawhi Leonard, who turns 35 on Monday, but the team is open to incoming inquiries. The Golden State Warriors, Minnesota Timberwolves and Detroit Pistons each checked on Leonard ahead of February’s trade deadline and again this offseason, yet discussions did not advance and L.A. never indicated a willingness to move the seven-time All-Star.
Source: Hoops Rumors
