The Golden State Warriors are finalizing an agreement to keep free-agent center Kristaps Porzingis, according to Marc Stein and Jake Fischer of The Stein Line. The sides are expected to reach terms before the league’s exclusive negotiating window ends on Tuesday, when free agency officially opens.
While moving toward a Porzingis deal, Golden State is still preparing a pitch for Los Angeles Lakers free agent LeBron James. As of Friday, James had not held substantive contract talks with the Lakers. The Warriors believe their proximity to James’ Southern California home—closer than any team except the Clippers—could bolster their case.
Salary-cap constraints limit Golden State to the projected $15 million mid-level exception, with the exact figure tied to the outcomes of Porzingis’ contract and Draymond Green’s future.
Should James stay with the Lakers or choose another destination, the Warriors plan to explore other options. Targets include reserve big man Jock Landale and guards Anfernee Simons and Collin Sexton, the latter two identified as potential backcourt scorers. Milwaukee guard Kevin Porter Jr. would have been considered had he not exercised his player option.
Collins Drawing Wide Interest
The Minnesota Timberwolves have shown interest in free-agent forward John Collins as they search for a replacement for Julius Randle, Stein and Fischer report. Budget limitations, however, could prevent Minnesota from making a competitive offer. The Orlando Magic, San Antonio Spurs, and Philadelphia 76ers are also expected to pursue Collins, with San Antonio and Philadelphia linked to several top forwards on the market.
Trail Blazers Eye Triano for Staff Role
Dallas Mavericks assistant coach Jay Triano is a candidate to join new Portland Trail Blazers head coach Micah Nori, according to The Stein Line. Nori previously worked under Triano during Triano’s tenure as head coach of the Toronto Raptors. Triano has spent more than two decades on NBA benches and has held head coaching positions in the league and with the Canadian national team.
Harden Nearing New Cavaliers Contract
Guard James Harden is also expected to finalize a new deal with the Cleveland Cavaliers before Tuesday. Stein and Fischer report the agreement could be completed at any moment.
Source: Hoops Rumors
