Sochan Cleared to Pursue Trade as Multiple Names Surface Ahead of Deadline
sochan-cleared-to-pursue-trade-as-multiple-names-surface-ahead-of-deadline
The San Antonio Spurs have authorized forward Jeremy Sochan to explore trade options, according to Marc Stein. Selected ninth overall in the 2022 draft, the 22-year-old started regularly during his first two NBA seasons but has slipped out of the rotation this year, appearing in just 27 games and averaging 4.2 points, 2.7 rebounds and 1.0 assist in 13.1 minutes. Sochan is on a $7.1 million expiring deal and would become a restricted free agent in July if tendered a qualifying offer. The New York Knicks are viewed league-wide as a possible destination for low-cost front-court depth.
Lakers’ Knecht Available
Stein reports that second-year Lakers swingman Dalton Knecht could also be moved. The 2024 first-round pick is logging 12.5 minutes per game over 36 appearances and has not seen action outside of garbage time for the past two weeks. Last season, Knecht was briefly dealt to Charlotte in a trade for Mark Williams that was ultimately voided.
Pelicans Set High Price for Murphy and Jones
The New Orleans Pelicans are asking for a package comparable to last summer’s Desmond Bane deal—four future first-round picks plus a first-round swap—before considering offers for Trey Murphy III or Herbert Jones. Despite sitting near the bottom of the Western Conference standings, New Orleans faces no contractual pressure; both players are signed long-term.
Jazz Confident on Retaining Kessler
Utah is optimistic about re-signing center Walker Kessler, who is sidelined for the season after left shoulder surgery. The Washington Wizards are expected to pursue Kessler as a front-court partner for Alex Sarr, but the Jazz can match any offer when the restricted free agent hits the market.
League Watches Knicks and Towns
Rival teams are monitoring whether the Knicks will move Karl-Anthony Towns before the trade deadline or keep him as a potential centerpiece in any future pursuit of Giannis Antetokounmpo, Stein adds.
Widespread Interest in Keon Ellis
Approximately 14 teams have inquired about Keon Ellis, and the Kings guard is viewed as one of the players most likely to be dealt prior to the deadline, according to the report.
Dinwiddie Eyes Houston
Free-agent guard Spencer Dinwiddie told a recent podcast he hopes to sign with the Houston Rockets after parting ways with Bayern Munich earlier this month. Houston, however, is expected to wait until after the deadline before making any roster additions.
Source: Hoops Rumors
