There have been a lot of NBA rumors as free agency looms. In the NFL world, Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert spoke about what the team needs to do to succeed this upcoming season. And there’s an update on the possible fate of Deshaun Watson in the NFL.
NBA Roundup:
The Portland Trail Blazers are expected to offer star guard Damian Lillard a two-year, $100 million deal extension in the off-season. Lillard has always stated that he will remain in Portland and try to win a championship with the Blazers, as he is in the minority of NBA stars remaining loyal to a franchise. The Blazers traded for forward Jerami Grant, as they hope that will propel them to a playoff run.
The Toronto Raptors expect guard Fred VanVleet to sign a four-year, nearly $100 million deal extension. VanVleet is going to be an essential piece for any run the Raptors have planned. Last season, he averaged 20.3 points, 6.7 assists, 4.4 rebounds, and 1.7 steals per game.
Early indications show that guard Tyler Herro and the Miami Heat are expected to agree on a contract that will allow him to earn nearly $25 million per year. Herro is 22 years old and has a lot of room to grow and improve his game. Victor Oladipo is expected to test free agency, which opens up a more prominent role for Herro with more responsibilities.
Rival NBA teams have mentioned Washington Wizards forward Kyle Kuzma as “available for trade.” Kuzma had a decent season last year, averaging 17.1 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 3.5 assists. Many teams could use Kuzma’s offensive skills, but he has shown to be a liability on the defensive end.
New York Knicks center Mitchell Robinson is expected to re-sign with the team on a four-year, nearly $60 million deal. Robinson has not played up to his potential yet, as he averaged 8.5 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks last season. The Knicks are hoping Robinson can be a dominant force in the paint for years to come.
Free agent guard Malik Monk previously said he would want to return to the Los Angeles Lakers on a reduced salary; now, it seems like he is searching for more lucrative deals. Monk had a big role last season while playing with LeBron James, Russell Westbrook, and Anthony Davis. Monk averaged 13.8 points on 47.3% shooting, 3.4 rebounds, and 2.9 assists last season.
Washington Wizards star guard Bradley Beal declined his $36 million player option. Beal will enter free agency, and there will be several playoff teams that will be interested in Beal. Last season, Beal averaged 23.2 points, 6.6 assists, and 4.7 rebounds per game.
Milwaukee Bucks forward Bobby Portis is “destined” to sign a four-year deal, worth around $40 million, to remain in Milwaukee. Portis averaged 14.1 points on 47.9 percent shooting, and 9.1 rebounds. Portis is expected to be the starting center or backup power forward to star forward Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Philadelphia 76ers star guard James Harden declined his $47.4 million player option. He will enter free agency; however, he is expected to re-sign with the Sixers.
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Brooklyn Nets guard Patty Mills declined his $6 million player option and will enter free agency.
Dallas Mavericks guard Jalen Brunson is receiving interest from the New York Knicks, Miami Heat, and Dallas Mavericks. If the Mavs want to re-sign Brunson, they will likely need to offer him close to a five-year, $125 million deal. Brunson is expected to meet with all three teams, but the Knicks have positioned themselves as the frontrunner.
Since Los Angeles Lakers star guard Russell Westbrook picked up his $47 million option, he is eligible for a four-year, $221 million extension. Westbrook will be on an expiring contract during the 2022-2023 season.
“Rival executives” think that the Lakers could target Chicago Bulls guard Coby White when free agency opens tomorrow. White will be a backup to Westbrook if the Lakers sign him.
The Miami Heat have emerged as the favorites to sign Jae Crowder if he leaves the Phoenix Suns. After losing P.J. Tucker to the Sixers, the Heat will look to replace Tucker with Crowder.
The big trade of the day: The San Antonio Spurs traded Dejounte Murray to the Atlanta Hawks for Danilo Gallinari and three, first-round picks. For the full story to the trade and analysis, see RedState’s report from earlier: NBA Analysis: San Antonio Spurs Trade Dejounte Murray to the Atlanta Hawks
NFL Roundup:
Star quarterback Justin Herbert discussed how the Los Angeles Chargers will have a successful season. He told SiriusXM NFL Radio:
“It’s all about consistency. We have to put together a full season for us to play the football that we want to.”
The Chargers added a lot of defensive firepower — edge rusher Khalil Mack, cornerback J.C. Jackosn, and veteran Kyle Van Noy. Along with the defensive additions, Los Angeles drafted offensive lineman Zion Johnson for Herbert to have extra protection going into the new season.
The NFL is more likely to accept the judge’s ruling, if Deshaun Watson is suspended. Earlier, it was reported that NFL is “more likely” to accept a six-to-eight-game suspension, and they will not appeal. The hearing continues on Thursday.
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