Raptors decline 10-day return for Mo Bamba; Knicks weigh defensive trade targets; Simons strengthens Celtics case; Walker’s two-way clock ticking
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TORONTO — The Raptors have opted against bringing back center Mo Bamba on a 10-day contract, according to Sportsnet.ca’s Michael Grange. Team officials reportedly discussed the idea after waiving Bamba on Tuesday, but with starting center Jakob Poeltl nearing a return from an eight-game absence caused by back soreness, Toronto no longer views an additional big man as urgent. Re-signing Bamba would also have pushed the club deeper into the luxury-tax range.
Grange added that Toronto intends to be selective with short-term deals before the Feb. 6 trade deadline. Rookie Collin Murray-Boyles’ recent play eases frontcourt concerns, and the Raptors could consider Tony Bradley — just signed to a 10-day contract by Indiana — if the Pacers do not extend him for the rest of the season.
Knicks explore perimeter stoppers
James L. Edwards III of The Athletic reports the Knicks are evaluating options to bolster their defense. New York is said to have interest in Pelicans guard Jose Alvarado ($4.5 million salary), Kings guard Keon Ellis ($2.3 million) and Jazz wing Ochai Agbaji ($6.4 million). While Agbaji’s trade value is considered lowest among the trio, fitting his contract into the Knicks’ books would be the most complicated.
Simons proving his worth in Boston
Anfernee Simons, acquired by Boston over the summer and long viewed as a potential trade chip, is making a strong case to stay. Over his last six games, the guard is averaging 17.3 points in 24.8 minutes while shooting 48.6 percent from the field, 53.1 percent from three and 88.9 percent at the line. Head coach Joe Mazzulla has praised Simons’ attitude, and moving his $27.7 million salary purely for financial relief is reportedly losing steam as the Celtics outperform early expectations.
Walker’s two-way days running out
Sixers forward Jabari Walker has been active for all Philadelphia contests this season, but his two-way limit is approaching. NBA rules allow a maximum of 90 combined games for two-way players when a team keeps an open roster spot; Walker is capped at 50 of those. The tallies stand at 72 for all two-way appearances and 35 for Walker individually. “Every now and then it crosses my mind, but I’m focusing on what I can control,” Walker told The Philadelphia Inquirer, adding he simply wants to leave “an impact on my teammates” whenever he plays.
Source: HoopsRumors
