Raptors, Rockets, Kings and Magic Feature in Latest NBA Trade and Free-Agency Buzz
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Los Angeles — The Toronto Raptors continue to surface as the most likely destination for Kawhi Leonard if the Los Angeles Clippers decide to part with the two-time Finals MVP, league sources told Marc Stein and Jake Fischer of The Stein Line.
Leonard is reportedly open to signing an extension in Toronto, keeping the Raptors in pole position should the Clippers entertain offers. The Dallas Mavericks have also shown interest, but front-office executives do not view Dallas as a realistic landing spot at this stage.
Stein and Fischer added that some members of the Clippers’ front office hold interest in New Orleans Pelicans forward Brandon Ingram, seeing the 26-year-old as a way to stay competitive while getting younger.
Los Angeles is still weighing several roster-building options heading into the offseason. According to league sources, the club has not ruled out creating cap space and remains open to re-signing free-agent forward John Collins.
Rockets Intensify Push for Marcus Smart
Houston’s pursuit of Marcus Smart is gaining traction. After initial reports linked the Rockets to the 30-year-old guard over the weekend, Stein and Fischer now describe the franchise’s interest as “increasingly serious.”
Dan Woike of The Athletic echoed that sentiment, noting expectations that Houston will present Smart with a three-year deal once he declines his player option.
Kings Eye Mitchell Robinson but Face Cap Hurdles
The Sacramento Kings have joined the Lakers and Nets in exploring a move for New York Knicks center Mitchell Robinson, Stein and Fischer reported. Sacramento currently projects to be above the first tax apron, meaning additional transactions would be necessary to free up space for a competitive offer.
Magic Plan to Hold On to Goga Bitadze
Orlando does not intend to trade center Goga Bitadze, despite the Clippers’ recent inquiry, per Stein and Fischer. The Magic are bracing for the possibility that Moritz Wagner departs in free agency, making Bitadze an important depth piece. Wagner is expected to receive considerable interest on the open market.
Source: Hoops Wire
