San Antonio, Phoenix and Detroit took center stage in the NBA rumor mill this week, each for very different reasons.
Wembanyama opts for smaller starting salary
Rookie of the Year Victor Wembanyama agreed earlier this month to a five-year rookie-scale maximum extension projected at roughly $252 million. The contract does not include Rose Rule language, so his 2027-28 salary will start at 25 percent of the salary cap instead of the possible 30 percent that could have been triggered by all-NBA honors next season.
Wembanyama told The Athletic he purposely declined the clause to give the Spurs more spending flexibility. Team officials estimate the decision could trim about $50 million from the club’s future payroll. That space could prove critical as fellow lottery picks Stephon Castle and Dylan Harper become extension-eligible over the next two summers.
Suns outline vetting process on Miles Bridges
At Miles Bridges’ introductory news conference Wednesday, Suns general manager Brian Gregory said the organization performed “extensive homework” before trading for the veteran forward. Bridges pleaded no contest to a felony domestic violence charge in 2022 and received three years’ probation. He missed the entire 2022-23 campaign while the case proceeded and served a 10-game league suspension to open 2023-24.
Gregory said Phoenix reviewed the incident, Bridges’ accountability and his efforts at personal growth, including counseling and therapy. The executive stated the franchise was satisfied Bridges could meet organizational standards. The forward acknowledged that reactions to the deal are mixed and said his focus is on being a better father and community member while regaining trust in Phoenix.
Pistons shuffle supporting cast around Cade Cunningham
Detroit avoided a headline-grabbing blockbuster but still overhauled its roster. Center Isaiah Stewart and guard Caris LeVert were dealt, Tobias Harris departed in free agency, and guard Marcus Sasser was moved elsewhere. Incoming pieces include forward John Collins, wing Taurean Prince and guard Isaiah Joe, with shooters Kevin Huerter and Javonte Green re-signed. The club also traded up in the draft for point guard Ebuka Okorie.
Observers believe the Pistons will miss Stewart’s interior defense and the leadership Harris provided, yet the franchise addressed a glaring need for perimeter shooting next to Cunningham. The biggest outstanding question is restricted free agent Jalen Duren; Detroit’s offseason grade could hinge on both the price of a new deal and the 22-year-old center’s next developmental leap.
Source: Hoops Wire
