TITLE: Clippers, Kings Held Early Trade Talks on DeRozan; Mavericks Likely to Retain Davis, Other Market Notes
SLUG: clippers-kings-derozan-trade-mavericks-davis-market-notes
CONTENT:
The Los Angeles Clippers and Sacramento Kings explored a trade that would have sent forward DeMar DeRozan and guard Keon Ellis to Los Angeles for center John Collins and a small additional contract, according to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype.
League sources told Scotto the conversations took place before the Clippers won 11 of their last 13 games. Los Angeles, once 6-21, has improved to 17-23 and is tied with Memphis for 10th place in the Western Conference, reducing the likelihood of a major roster shake-up.
Additional items from Scotto’s reporting
Mavericks unlikely to move Anthony Davis: Multiple front-office executives believe Dallas will keep Davis while he recovers from a hand injury, unless the club decides to offload his salary. The Atlanta Hawks, long linked to the big man, are no longer pressing for a deal in light of his latest setback.
Jonathan Kuminga market update: Miami’s interest in the Golden State forward has cooled, and Washington is not expected to make a serious push. Portland, however, is still viewed as a potential suitor.
Raptors testing Jakob Poeltl’s value: Toronto has quietly gauged interest in the 28-year-old center, who is battling back issues and is owed $103.5 million over the next four seasons after this one. His health and contract terms are considered hurdles to a strong return.
Trade discussions are expected to intensify as the deadline approaches, but for now the Clippers appear content with their turnaround, while teams such as Dallas and Toronto weigh the market for their injured or high-priced veterans.
Source: Hoops Rumors
