Pacific Division Roundup: Butler Rehab Update, Reaves’ New Deal, Suns Bet on Peat, Clippers Select Ngoy
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San Francisco — Speaking Thursday at a Golden State Warriors event unveiling the club’s new jersey-patch sponsor, veteran wing Jimmy Butler said his recovery from last season’s right ACL tear is ahead of schedule. The 36-year-old expects to begin running in roughly six weeks.
“I can dunk off my left leg; I just can’t land on my right,” Butler told reporters, noting the rapid progress of his rehab. Entering the final season of his contract, the six-time All-Star praised Golden State’s organization, adding, “When I say I don’t want to be anywhere else, this is it.” Butler becomes eligible for a contract extension on February 6.
Lakers Keep Reaves on Four-Year Max
Guard Austin Reaves acknowledged to The Athletic that he briefly doubted he would remain with Los Angeles before finalizing a four-year maximum-salary agreement. “It was a sigh of relief,” the former undrafted free agent said. “My heart’s been in L.A. every morning I woke up, hoping we could get this done.”
Suns Emphasize Development With No. 30 Pick Peat
Suns general manager Brian Gregory said first-round selection Koa Peat offers high character, competitiveness and rim-attacking ability. While the No. 30 pick is not viewed as an immediate contributor, Phoenix believes the 18-year-old’s winning background suits its need to cultivate young talent in the absence of premium draft assets.
Ngoy Plans to Play at Auburn After Surprise Selection
French center Narcisse Ngoy, taken 57th overall by the Clippers, did not anticipate being drafted and still intends to suit up for Auburn next season, according to Law Murray of The Athletic. Recent NCAA rule changes allow the 19-year-old to attend college while the Clippers retain his NBA rights, effectively making him a domestic draft-and-stash prospect. Team officials and Ngoy’s camp are discussing next steps.
Source: Hoops Rumors
