NBA Rumor Roundup: Heat keep eye on Klay Thompson, Pistons lean on Cade Cunningham in star pursuit, Grizzlies clear path for youth after Caldwell-Pope buyout
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Miami, FL — The Miami Heat remain interested in veteran guard Klay Thompson but are prepared to wait for a potential buyout with the Dallas Mavericks before making a move. The club views Thompson as a floor-spacing shooter who could ease defensive pressure on Giannis Antetokounmpo and Bam Adebayo. If the 34-year-old reaches free agency, Miami is expected to consider using a portion of its non-taxpayer mid-level exception to sign him, according to the Miami Herald.
Detroit, MI — In Detroit, franchise cornerstone Cade Cunningham reportedly took the lead in recruiting marquee talent during the offseason. ESPN’s NBA Today revealed that the third-year guard personally contacted Austin Reaves, Kevin Durant, Kawhi Leonard and Kyrie Irving in hopes of bringing another star to the Pistons. Although none of the efforts materialized, the aggressive approach underscores Detroit’s push to build on last season’s progress. With external pursuits on hold, the front office is turning its attention to re-signing restricted free agent Jalen Duren and negotiating an extension for Ausar Thompson.
Memphis, TN — The Grizzlies and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope mutually agreed to part ways, a move that freed the veteran wing to chase a championship elsewhere while opening minutes for Memphis’ younger players. Caldwell-Pope finalized a buyout to join the Philadelphia 76ers, giving the 11-year pro another opportunity to contend for a title and allowing the Grizzlies to streamline a previously crowded wing rotation.
Source: Hoops Wire
