As the calendar edges towards October, the NBA preseason buzz intensifies, but not without its share of pre-season drama. A flurry of roster adjustments, coupled with the unfortunate specter of injuries, paints a complex picture for several teams. Just as the storylines were beginning to solidify, new developments have emerged, impacting the Philadelphia 76ers and the Los Angeles Lakers.
First, let's examine the latest roster cuts. The Indiana Pacers, wasting no time, waived veteran point guard Monte Morris, shortly after acquiring him. This decision stems from a nagging calf injury that has sidelined Morris. According to Michael Scotto, Morris' contract was non-guaranteed, allowing the Pacers to part ways without significant financial burden.
In Charlotte, the Hornets released guard Nick Smith Jr. Despite averaging a respectable 9.9 points, 2.4 assists, and 2.1 rebounds in 60 games last season, Smith's contributions were deemed insufficient. While his 37areer three-point percentage is respectable, those who watched him play recognized glaring weaknesses on the defensive end, coupled with questionable shot selection and an apparent inability to grasp the team's offensive schemes. Whether another team will take a chance on the young guard remains to be seen.
Turning to the City of Brotherly Love, the 76ers are navigating choppy waters. Negotiations with restricted free agent Quentin Grimes have reached a standstill. Both Grimes and the Sixers have publicly expressed a desire for a continued partnership, however, the stalemate lies in the financial details. Gina Mizell, a 76ers beat reporter, revealed that the team has offered Grimes a four-year, $39 million contract. Grimes, reportedly, believes his market value is closer to $25 million per year. This significant difference in valuation creates a considerable hurdle for both parties as the clock ticks down to the start of the season.
Adding to the Sixers' woes, rookie guard Terquavion McCain suffered a setback during training camp, sustaining a torn ulnar collateral ligament in his right thumb. This injury comes on the heels of a previous setback, a torn lateral meniscus in his left knee that required surgery and prematurely ended his promising rookie season. During his debut season, McCain averaged 15.3 points, 2.4 rebounds and 2.6 assists in 25.7 minutes, topping the rookie rankings multiple times, and cementing himself as a front-runner for Rookie of the Year. The Sixers medical staff, along with McCain, are consulting with specialists to determine the best course of treatment. The injury further complicates the 76ers ongoing negotiations with Grimes.
Across the country, the Los Angeles Lakers find themselves entangled in familiar trade rumors, this time involving Utah Jazz center Walker Kessler. With reports suggesting that Kessler and the Jazz have failed to reach an agreement on a contract extension, he is poised to enter restricted free agency next summer. Ashish Mathur, a Lakers insider, reports that the Lakers plan to reignite their pursuit of Kessler. However, the Jazz's asking price for the promising young center remains astronomical. Whispers indicate that the Lakers would need to part with Austin Reaves, along with multiple first-round picks, to secure Kessler's services.
Last season, Kessler posted impressive numbers for the Jazz, averaging 11.1 points, 12.2 rebounds, 1.7 assists, 0.6 steals, and 2.4 blocks in 58 games, while shooting an impressive 66.3rom the field. He recorded 28 double-doubles. Whether the Lakers are willing to mortgage their future for Kessler remains to be seen.
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