Hornets Keep Connaughton; Knicks Sought Mazzulla; Warriors Plot Seth Curry Return; Mavs Make Roster, G League Moves
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The Charlotte Hornets’ decision to waive veteran guard Spencer Dinwiddie after signing him to a guaranteed minimum deal this summer raised eyebrows around the league, according to Marc Stein. While some observers expected Pat Connaughton to be the odd man out, Charlotte retained the 32-year-old wing because of his popularity in the locker room and his championship résumé. Connaughton’s $9.4 million expiring contract could also become a trade chip before the February deadline.
Stein reports the New York Knicks tried to contact several coaches under contract elsewhere during their search to replace Tom Thibodeau, but every formal request was denied. Rumblings indicate New York even explored a run at Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla. That pursuit stalled, and one month after the Knicks hired Mike Brown, Boston extended Mazzulla. Though the Celtics only described the deal as multiyear, Stein hears the 37-year-old likely received a six-year contract.
On the West Coast, Stein says there is “zero doubt” the Golden State Warriors will re-sign veteran guard Seth Curry. Golden State could technically bring Curry back as early as November 11, but waiting slightly beyond that date would preserve additional room below the second-apron hard cap—an option the team is weighing.
The Dallas Mavericks waived Jeremiah Robinson-Earl, Dalano Banton and Dennis Smith Jr. on Friday. The organization expects Robinson-Earl and Banton to open the season with its G League affiliate, the Texas Legends, which already hold their returning rights. Dallas is also optimistic Smith will join the Legends; however, his rights currently belong to the Wisconsin Herd, meaning an NBAGL trade would be required. Banton, who was on an Exhibit 10 deal, is the only one of the trio eligible for a bonus if he remains with the Legends for at least 60 days; Robinson-Earl and Smith were on Exhibit 9 contracts.
Source: Hoops Rumors
