TÍTULO: Veterans, Call-Ups and Returns Shape Southwest Division Roster Moves
SLUG: southwest-division-middleton-nembhard-murphy-prosper-barnes
Dallas — Middleton stays, Nembhard promoted
Head coach Jason Kidd confirmed that forward Khris Middleton will finish the season with the Dallas Mavericks, opting against a buyout that could have sent him to a postseason contender. Kidd said the three-time All-Star’s experience and shot-making are “exactly what our locker room needs,” adding that the staff will guard against taxing Middleton with excessive minutes.
Middleton’s decision coincided with guard Tyus Jones reaching a buyout agreement with Dallas, clearing a spot on the 15-man roster. The Mavericks immediately filled that vacancy by converting rookie guard Ryan Nembhard from a two-way deal to a standard NBA contract. Nembhard, who went undrafted out of Gonzaga last June, said landing his first full contract “feels great” and praised the organization for its long-standing interest, noting that Dallas tried to trade for a second-round pick to draft him last year.
New Orleans — Murphy back from shoulder injury
Pelicans wing Trey Murphy III returned Sunday after missing five games with a right shoulder contusion. Interim coach James Borrego called the 23-year-old “a versatile player operating at a high level” and said Murphy’s presence elevates the team’s energy and ceiling as New Orleans pushes toward the postseason.
Memphis — Prosper making case for full contract
Grizzlies two-way forward Olivier-Maxence Prosper has started five straight contests, filling in at small-ball center while averaging 15.2 points on 62.8 percent shooting overall and 47.1 percent from three since Feb. 6. Head coach Tuomas Iisalo described Prosper as “one of the highest-motor players in the league” and credited his improved perimeter stroke. The 6-8 rookie has only six NBA games left on his two-way allotment, increasing speculation that Memphis may need to convert his deal to keep him active.
San Antonio — Barnes adjusts to bench role
Veteran forward Harrison Barnes, removed from the Spurs’ starting lineup in February after 775 consecutive starts spanning four teams, continues to receive steady minutes off the bench. Teammate Keldon Johnson called Barnes “as professional as it gets,” while the 31-year-old prepares to enter unrestricted free agency this summer.
Source: Hoops Rumors
