NBA Rumor Roundup: Cavaliers Pursue Jonathan Kuminga, Pelicans Revisit Trey Murphy III Price, Mavericks Court Tarik Biberovic
nba-rumor-roundup-cavaliers-kuminga-pelicans-murphy-mavericks-biberovic
Cleveland Cavaliers
The Cavaliers remain one of several clubs exploring a sign-and-trade for Hawks forward Jonathan Kuminga, league sources told HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto. Cleveland has spoken with Atlanta about a deal for the 23-year-old, joining the Bucks and Kings in the chase.
Atlanta declined Kuminga’s $24.3 million team option earlier in the offseason, a move designed to open cap space while retaining Bird rights. That decision keeps the door open for either a new contract at a lower salary or a sign-and-trade. Kuminga, selected eighth overall in 2021, is considered one of the most appealing free-agent options because of his age, athleticism and upside.
New Orleans Pelicans
After Jaylen Brown was removed from trade discussions, executives are monitoring whether Trey Murphy III could emerge as the next marquee name on the market. Scotto reported that New Orleans has lowered its asking price from the equivalent of four first-round picks to roughly three, sparking mixed opinions around the league.
The Warriors, Pistons and Hawks remain engaged, while the Celtics and Clippers are also tracking the situation. Golden State’s interest may depend on the outcome of its pursuit of LeBron James before committing to another significant move.
Dallas Mavericks
Dallas is preparing a sizable contract offer for EuroLeague wing Tarik Biberovic, according to Eurohoops. The Mavericks obtained the 25-year-old’s NBA rights in the Santi Aldama trade and have already opened talks with his representatives, Marc Stein of The Stein Line added.
The primary obstacle is a reported $2 million buyout with Turkish club Fenerbahce. NBA rules allow Dallas to pay part of that amount. Biberovic shot nearly 42 percent from three-point range last season and helped Fenerbahce capture the EuroLeague title.
The situations involving Kuminga, Murphy and Biberovic are expected to remain fluid as teams finalize rosters ahead of training camps.
Source: Hoops Wire
