Cavaliers Push to Retain Dean Wade; Wizards Eye Watkins, Kleber Looks to Europe, Bonga Seeks NBA Return
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The Cleveland Cavaliers are negotiating with forward Dean Wade in an effort to finalize a new contract before leaguewide free agency opens Tuesday at 5:00 p.m. CT, according to Chris Fedor of Cleveland.com. Both sides remain in active talks and have not ruled out a deal that would keep the 27-year-old in Cleveland.
Re-signing Wade has been a stated priority for the Cavaliers, but the front office is also working to stay below the NBA’s second tax apron for a second straight season. A separate cost-cutting move could be required to fit Wade’s next contract under the threshold.
Other Free-Agency Notes
Jamir Watkins: The Washington Wizards are “highly likely” to re-sign the restricted free-agent wing, reports Josh Robbins of The Athletic. Washington declined Watkins’ minimum-salary team option and extended a slightly higher qualifying offer, signaling plans for a multi-year agreement with the former Florida State standout.
Maxi Kleber: Veteran big man Kleber is preparing to leave the NBA after nine seasons and pursue a EuroLeague contract, Donatas Urbonas of BasketNews.com reports. The 34-year-old German forward/center, who finished last season with the Los Angeles Lakers, is evaluating opportunities overseas after recent injuries diminished his mobility and outside shooting.
Isaac Bonga: While Kleber eyes Europe, fellow German forward Bonga is targeting an NBA comeback, per Urbonas. Following a career-best campaign with Partizan Belgrade, the four-year NBA veteran has multiple lucrative EuroLeague offers but intends to gauge NBA interest before deciding on his next move.
The NBA’s free-agency negotiating period begins Tuesday at 5:00 p.m. CT.
Source: Hoops Rumors
