With NBA free agency opening Tuesday evening, the Utah Jazz, Chicago Bulls and Phoenix Suns are each maneuvering to secure key roster pieces.
Jazz ready for possible bidding war over Kessler
Restricted free-agent center Walker Kessler has scheduled meetings with several clubs at Creative Artists Agency headquarters in Los Angeles once the market opens, according to Tony Jones of The Athletic. Utah extended a qualifying offer on Monday, retaining the right to match any forthcoming deal.
The Jazz and Kessler’s representatives have been in talks during the team’s exclusive negotiating window. Utah is believed to have proposed a five-year package worth roughly $140 million, though discussions have reportedly stalled. Despite the hiccups, league insiders expect the 7-foot-2 center to remain in Salt Lake City, Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints reported.
Utah is also exploring options for a veteran guard to pair with its young backcourt.
Bulls emerge as suitor for Norman Powell
The Chicago Bulls are considered a potential destination for veteran scorer Norman Powell, first noted by Michael Scotto of HoopsHype and echoed by Grant Afseth of Dallas Hoops Journal. Tim Reynolds of The Associated Press added that Powell is not pursuing sign-and-trade scenarios with the Miami Heat.
Powell, 31, is coming off his best NBA campaign, earning his first All-Star nod while averaging 21.7 points, 3.5 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 1.1 steals across 58 games. He shot 47.0 percent from the field, 38.0 percent beyond the arc and 82.7 percent at the foul line.
Suns focus mid-level exception on backcourt depth
The Phoenix Suns are targeting backcourt help with their taxpayer mid-level exception, John Gambadoro of Arizona Sports 98.7 reported. Two initial options, Kevin Huerter and Landry Shamet, are expected to stay with the Detroit Pistons and New York Knicks, respectively.
Remaining names on Phoenix’s list include Luke Kennard, Collin Sexton, Jordan Clarkson and DeAnthony Melton as the club seeks additional guard depth.
The NBA free-agency negotiating period begins Tuesday at 6 p.m. ET.
Source: Hoops Wire
