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1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.6.1Damian Lillard requests a trade!
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http://www.ebooksnet.com/damian-lillard-requests-a-trade/#respondSun, 02 Jul 2023 23:30:50 +0000http://www.ebooksnet.com/?p=269260Team Odds to land Damian Lillard.
On Saturday July 1st, one day after start of NBA Free Agency, Portland Trail Blazers star Damian Lillard requested a trade.? Lillard specifically expressed his desire to contend in the NBA and win a championship on multiple occasions.? Furthermore, Lillard didn't want a say in the NBA Draft, nor free agency, and requested a trade after both ended.? Let's take a look at the best odds where Damian Lillard will land.? ?If you are looking for the best betting odds and stats, here is information to know.
Damian Lillard- Guard/Portland Trail Blazers
(Photo by Sam Forencich/NBAE via Getty Images)
Damian Lillard has spent his entire career with the Portland Trail Blazersand was the 6th overall pick in 2012.? During Lillard's tenure, he was named the 2013 Rookie of the Year, was named to the NBA 75th Anniversary Team, and is a 7x NBA All-Star. In addition, Lillard was All-NBA First Team in 2018, a 4x All- NBA Second Team, and a 2x All-NBA Third Team. In 11 years with Portland, he led the Blazers to 8 playoff appearances from 2013-2020.? Although Portland made the playoffs for several years, they've never got past the Western Conference Semifinals.? After years of denying trade requests, Lillard stayed loyal to Portland for over a decade.??
Lillard preferred destination.
According to Marc Spears, 'Damian Lillard wants to play for the Miami Heat, and that he has told the Blazers that.'? Also, Damian Lillard does not have a no trade clause in his contract, meaning he can't control where he lands. However, it's been clear Lillard ONLY wants to be trade to Miami.? With that said, it looks as though the Trail Blazers value Lillard highly and will talk to multiple teams. According to ESPNS' Adrian Wojnarowski, “The Blazers’ front office, their organization made it clear to teams who called yesterday about Damian Lillard that they are open for business everywhere in the league on him."
It's certainly been clear Lillard wanted to remain with and win a championship with Portland. However, they missed the playoffs the last three years, and Portland wasn't able to unload the third overall pick.? Instead of trading the third overall pick for a veteran all-star, they selected G-League Ignite sensation Scoot Henderson.? In addition, the Trail Blazers signed Jerami Grant in free agency, and didn't have other moves to build around Lillard.Damian Lillard is one of the best guards in the league, and the Portland Trail Blazers assumingly will ask for a large package in return for Dame.??
According to ESPNS Adrian Wojnarowski, the Blazers will "do what's best for the organization" and are "gonna be open to every possibility."? With that said, Portland GM Joe Cronin has stated he is aware Damian Lillard wants out, and the Blazers are still committed to winning per Chris Hanes.?
Miami Heat? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? -500 Brooklyn Nets? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? +300 Philadelphia 76ers? ? ? ? ?+700 New York Knicks? ? ? ? ? ? +900 Los Angeles Clippers? ? ? +1200 San Antonio Spurs? ? ? ? ?+1400 Los Angeles Lakers? ? ? ? ?+1600
Miami Heat -500
Miami Heat's star Tyler Herro has officially removed 'Miami Heat' from his twitter bio, is it time to speculate?? It's no secret the Miami Heat is the ONLY preferred destination of Damian Lillard.Over the past few weeks, Heat's Jimmy Butler posted photos of Lillard's music on Instagram, which sparked rumors. In addition, Damian Lillard was listening to "Welcome to Miami" on his Instagram Live, which I happened to catch.??
Miami is led by Head Coach, Erik Spoelstra, who has led the Heat to two NBA championships.? In addition, Miami made the Finals, in which they came up short against the Denver Nuggets.? Although the Heat are $54 million over in cap space, they recently lost guards Gabe Vincent and Max Strus in free agency.? Furthermore, Miami signed Kevin Love, Josh Richardson, and Thomas Bryant this week.?
I honestly don't blame Damian Lillard for wanting to play in Miami.? The Heat are led by Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo, who are desperately seeking a third star.? According to Chris Haynes, "Miami has been waiting for this domino to fall and will quickly engage with Portland in trying to get a deal done, sources say,” writes Haynes. “Heat star Jimmy Butler has relayed to the team that Lillard is his No. 1 target, sources say.”
Why the Heat make sense.?
Chris Hayes also reported that the Heat are "prepared to offer a package centered around Tyler Herro, with possibly Duncan Robinson and picks." Tyler Herro is coming off a hand fracture, and both him and Robinson are deadly three-point shooters.? They are viewed as key tradeassets, given the two of them are owed a combined $45 million next season.?In addition, veteran guard Kyle Lowry is due to make nearly $30 million this season, and Miami has 2024-2027 first round picks.? However, they only have two tradable picks due to their pick swap with the Thunder in 2025.?
With Gabe Vincent and Max Strus gone, the Heat desperately need a playmaker who can score and facilitate the ball.? Lillard would fit in great with a system that is known for developing young and undrafted players.? It would also be ideal if Miami could retain Caleb Martin, who was a big part of their postseason success last season.?
Brooklyn Nets +300
The Brooklyn Nets are an intriguing team, who is full of young talent, and have a multitude of future draft picks.? Last season, the Nets traded both Kyrie Irving and Kevin Durant,which they received a lot of value in return.? ?In return, the Nets received Mikal Bridges, Cam Johnson, Jae Crowder and four unprotected future first-round picks. In addition, the Nets traded Kyrie Irving to the Dallas Mavericks for Spencer Dinwiddie, Dorian-Finney-Smith, 2027 and 2029 first-round picks, and a 2029 second round pick. With that said, the Brooklyn nets have the most assets and future trade picks to trade for out of any team, in my opinion.?
In Free Agency this week, Brooklyn resigned Cam Johnson to a 4-year $108 million contract, along with Lonnie Walker IV, and Dennis Smith Jr.? With Ben Simmons status in the air, he is on the books for $37 million next season, along with Spencer Dinwiddie, who is owed $20 million.? The Nets are only $28 million over cap space and could move players around to make this deal happen.? It's unknown if Lillard wants to play with a young core, however, they are an extremely talented group.? The addition of Lillard to Johnson, Bridges, and Claxton would make them an immediate contender in the Eastern Conference.?
Philadelphia 76ers +700
The Philadelphia 76ers were informed this week that star guard James Harden requested a sign and trade deal. With that said, the 76ers still have MVP winner Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey, although Maxey would most likely be part of the deal. ?After failing to beat the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference Semifinals, Philadelphia fired head coach Doc Rivers, and hired Nick Nurse.? Although this is an unlikely scenario, the 76ers are looking for a guard to replace Harden, and to team up with Embiid.?
Damian Lillard averaged a career-high 32.2 points per game this last season, and there are no signs of him slowing down.? Philadelphia has been in playoff contention for a number of years, however, has lost three straight Eastern Conference Semifinals. To me, Philadelphia could be contenders with Lillard and Embiid. However, the 76ers could lack depth at the point guard position with Harden on the way out, especially if Tyrese Maxey is included in the trade.?
Overall, the departure of James Harden and the acquisition of very few players in free agency could be a turn off for Lillard.? The 76ers added veteran Patrick Beverly in free agency, and have role players in Tobias Harris, P.J Tucker, and De'Anthony Melton.??
New York Knicks +900
Much like Brooklyn, the New York Knicks are changing their narrative and are a big market team.? Led by star guard Jalen Brunson, the Knicks can be viewed as a destination for stars.? New York recently signed Donte DiVincenzo in free agency, and have big man Julius Randle, RJ Barrett, Josh Hart, and Mitchel Robinson. It's highly likely that RJ Barrett would be included in the trade, along with Mitchell Robinson.??
Although the Knicks have a defined core, would it be enough for Damian Lillard? After several years of playoff drought, New York made the playoffs last season, and Damien Lillard would fit great alongside star Jalen Brunson. It's important to note the Knicks have 8 first-round picks that are tradable. Perhaps New York finally gets another superstar, and possible a third team involved.?
Other Teams:?
As of right now, the Trail Blazers will consider each team, and will pick which scenario will be best for the team.? I believe the Lakers are out, especially the recent splash they made in free agency.? With the addition of Gabe Vincent, Austin Reaves, and D'Angelo Russell, I don't see a fit for Lillard on that team.??
According to Ramona Shelburne, Lillard has 'deep respect' for the San Antionio Spurs Organization.? This would be an interesting fit, given they drafted Victor Wembanyama #1 overall.The Spurs are known for being a winning organization, are led by Head Coach Gregg Popovich, and have a young core, and tradable assets.? ?Victor Wembanyama was scouted as a generational talent, and the idea of teaming up with him could be lucrative to any star.? In addition, San Antonio has up to 29 draft picks over the next several years, and have young talent in Devin Vassell, Keldon Johnson, and Tre Jones.
Damian Lillard would make sense for the Clippers, however, they resigned Russell Westbrook, and there are rumors James Harden will land there.??
Dark Horse Team: The Utah Jazz
The Utah Jazz have undergone quite the roster transformation over the past year and is one of the teams that would make the best sense.? Per the Athletic, the Utah Jazz are expected to show interest in Damian Lillard.?
The Utah Jazz finished 12th in the Western Conference after unloading stars Donovan Mitchell and Rudy Gobert.? Although they had a sub .500 record, Danny Ainge, an executive for the Utah Jazz, and has put together championship teams during his Celtics tenure.? In addition, the Jazz have a core that includes Collin Sexton, Lauri Markkanen, Jordan Clarkson, Kelly Olynyk, and Talen Horton-Tucker.? The Jazz recently traded for Atlanta's John Collins, and could easily package Sexton, another player, and future picks.??
If there is anything the Utah Jazz have, it's an abundance of draft assets and players.? Will Danny Ainge and Justin Zanik get this trade done??
For More NBA Betting Info & Game Predictions,?Follow us at @BallislifeBets.
Sara Jane is a full-time content creator,?focusing on both college basketball, the NBA, NFL, and writer of www.ebooksnet.com.?Don’t forget to follow her on Twitter/YouTube/Kick/Twitch/Instagram: @GGirlSports.
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]]>http://www.ebooksnet.com/damian-lillard-requests-a-trade/feed/0Los Angeles Clippers v Portland Trail BlazersPORTLAND, OR - MARCH 19: Damian Lillard #0 of the Portland Trail Blazers looks on during the game on March 19, 2023 at the Moda Center Arena in Portland, Oregon. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE (Photo by Sam Forencich/NBAE via Getty Images)Kyrie Irving: Free Agency Odds
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http://www.ebooksnet.com/kyrie-irving-free-agency-odds/#commentsFri, 30 Jun 2023 20:57:07 +0000http://www.ebooksnet.com/?p=269249Teams' odds to land Kyrie Irving in free agency.
Today is the start of NBA Free Agency negotiations at 6 PM EST. There are many notable free agents, who won't be able to sign a contract until July 6th.? In this article, we will break down Kyrie Irving, and his odds to land with certain teams.Kyrie Irving was traded to the Dallas Mavericks last season, after a tumultuous run with the Brooklyn Nets. In addition, he is an unrestricted free agency currently. The last article written broke down the difference between restricted and unrestricted free agents.? Take a lookhereto learn all about the types of free agents, and player odds. ?If you are looking for the best betting odds and stats, here is information to know.
Kyrie Irving- Dallas Mavericks
ATLANTA, GEORGIA - APRIL 02: Kyrie Irving #2 of the Dallas Mavericks dribbles against the Atlanta Hawks during the first quarter at State Farm Arena on April 02, 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia.(Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
Kyrie Irving was asked about his free agency back in March, in which he gave a blunt and honest answer. According to CBS Sports, Irving quoted, "I am in no rush to make a decision," Irving said?about his free agency last month. "I know what's ahead of me for the rest of my career."
Kyrie Irving is a veteran of the league and has arguably some of the best handles in the NBA. However, he's been unpredictable in the past, which makes NBA Free Agency even more exciting. Although there's been some issues on and off the court in the past, Irving is an extremely talented guard who has an NBA Championship under his belt.? Last season, Irving grew frustrated with the Brooklyn Nets, and was traded to the Dallas Mavericks for Spencer Dinwiddie, Dorian Finney-Smith, a 2029 unprotected first-round pick, and a 2027/2029 second-round pick.? In addition, Kyrie Irving exercised his 2022-2023 option for $36 million, and is now a free agent.? It's important to note, Irving signed a four-year $136 million contract with the Brooklyn Nets in 2019.
Just a few weeks ago, Yahoo Sports reported that there 'was no market for Irving.'According to Chris Haynes, Kyrie Irving intends to meet with the Suns at the start of the free agency.? Just a few days ago, Marc Stein reported Kyrie Irving is expected back to the Dallas Mavericks. However, as of today, CBS Sports indicates Irving could meet with the Houston Rockets, Lakers, Clippers, Suns, and Heat.
The Mavericks are currently $74 million over in cap space, in which Luka Doncic is slated to make $40 million this season alone.? In addition, Tim Hardaway is bound to make $17 million this season, and Richaun Holmes $12 million.? Kyrie Irving last signed a max contract with the Brooklyn Nets in 2019 and is eligible to sign a five-year $272.9 million max contract with Dallas.? There are very few teams that could afford Irving, and according to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, "The Market for Kyrie Irving- legitimate places that he would leave Dallas for that make sense and are available to him---- is extremely limited, perhaps nil."
Although the Mavericks missed the playoffs, Kyrie Irving played 20 games with Dallas, in which he averaged 27 points, 6 assists, 1.3 steals, and shot 51 percent from the field, and 39.2 percent from the three.? Once considered a high risk, Irving teamed up with All-Star Luka Doncic, Dallas got a star they desperately needed to play alongside Doncic. Irving expressed during his media introduction that the Mavericks told him to be himself, something Irving expressed he hasn't felt with teams prior.? Dallas is the team that can pay Irving the most and seems like a destination that can continue to allow Kyrie to play his game without distractions. The only downside is the Mavericks don't have the best role players.
Kyrie Irving on his future
As of March 30,?2023, Kyrie Irving spoke to the media, and addressed his future with the Dallas.According to Grant Afseth of Sports Illustrated, Kyrie Irving quoted, "I think the realistic view is that when I came here, this was going to be a growing process,” “This was for the long term, and this was for something that’s bigger than ourselves, and we can’t just be a championship team overnight, especially me coming here. It certainly seems possible that Kyrie Irving could end back in Dallas.
Lakers +550
If you didn't know, Kyrie Irving won an NBA Championship back in 2016 with the Cleveland Cavaliers and Lebron James.? Although James is 38, he is still playing at a high level, along with Kyrie Irving.? The duo played well together in Cleveland, and Kyrie Irving would fit the piece the Lakers have been missing.? Los Angeles has Anthony Davis at Center, along with LeBron James. However, they've been missing a shot creating point guard, who can consistently score and facilitate.? Irving would fit this role perfectly and be a player who can take pressure off Davis and LeBron nightly.
The Los Angeles Lakers are $104 million over in cap space, and only the Rockets, Pacers, Spurs, and Magic have the financial room to sign Irving. Although some of those teams are very young, it's doubtful Irving would sign with any of them.? There could certainly be a sign and trade deal, and the Lakers make the most sense besides the Mavericks.? Both Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura are restricted free agents, two players that played a crucial role in the playoffs. With the Lakers expected to lose Mo Bamba and Malik Beasley, they will make a decision on Irving before attempting to resign D'Angelo Russell or Dennis Schroder. The Lakers are a lucrative destination for Irving to win, however, can he be himself and will the Los Angeles media get to him?
Miami Heat +1000
The Miami Heat made the NBA Finals last season, and far exceeded expectations.? We saw the emergence of Gabe Vincent, along with Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo.? With the uncertainty of Vincent and Kyle Lowrys future, they lack a true point guard who can facilitate and score.?The Heat are projected to be $64 million over in cap space, and Jimmy Butler, Bam Adebayo, Kyle Lowry, and Tyler Herro are all slated to make between $27-$45 million next year.? It was just reported Victor Oladipo exercised his 2023-2024 salary for $9 million, and Kyle Lowry is in the final year of his $29.6 million contract.? Perhaps the Heat could try to find a trade partner to take on Lowry's contract.?
If Miami is able to pull it off, the addition of Irving would most likely put them right back into a champion contender, especially if the Heat can find a trade suitor for Lowry.? Imagine a lineup with Kyrie Irving, Jimmy Butler, and Bam Adebayo??If they sign Irving, Max Strus and Gabe Vincent would likely sign somewhere else.?
Clippers +1200
As of 4 PM EST today, CBS Reports that Kyrie Irving is expected to meet with the Los Angeles Clippers, along with other teams.??The Clippers have stars in Paul George, and Kawhi Leonard, although they've been injured.? Since their four-year contract signings, Kawhi Leonard has played just 147 regular season games with the Clippers, while Paul George has only played 119.? Paul George led the Clippers for a majority of the 2022-2023 season, however, they were missing one of the best two-way players in the game in Leonard.
The Los Angeles Clippers are $71 million over in cap space, and according to Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports. ' Los Angles has made Ivica Zubac available in trade conversations." Zubac is slated to make $10 million this season, $11 million next season, and will be an unrestricted free agent in 2025. Trading Zubac would make sense for the Clippers, who desperately need a point guard.? It would free up $10 million next season and start to pave the way for a signing.?
Why the Clippers make sense.
If Kawhi Leonard and Paul George could stay healthy, adding Irving could make them an instant contender and a huge threat in the western conference.? Although losing Zubac would be a crucial loss, especially defensively, Irving would bring championship experience, along with exceptional playmaking and scoring abilities. It's also possible the Clippers could move Marcus Morris Sr., who's due to make $17 million this season.??
Bulls/Timberwolves/Suns/Rockets +2500
The Suns just completed a trade for Bradley Beal and gave up several years of first round draft picks with the addition of Kevin Durant.? To me, the Suns would make the most sense for Irving, although Phoenix has a loaded back court between Devin Booker and Bradley Beal.? The Suns expressed their desire to keep center Deandre Ayton and are currently $80 million over in cap space.? Although the Suns have three stars, they currently only have 8 players signed to their roster, with Cameron Payne as their primary bench player.?
It seems the Suns chances of signing Kyrie Irving are minimal. They don't have the financial space nor the assets to trade for Irving. If they traded anyone, it would have to be Deandre Ayton.? The Combination of Devin Booker and Kyrie Irving, along with Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal would make the Suns one of the best contenders in the league.?
Other Teams
Although it's unlikely Kyrie Irving will make a decision tonight, other teams, such as the Bulls or Timberwolves could emerge as dark horses.? Lonzo Balls future is looking bleak due to injuries, and the Bulls still have stars Zach LaVine and DeMar Derozan on the books.? Chicago is currently $46 million over in cap space, can they trade LaVine, or cut other players? The Rockets currently have the most in cap space at $52 million.? Will Irving join a promising young core in Amen Thompson, Jalen Green, Kevin Porter Jr., and Jabari Smith Jr.?
For More NBA Betting Info & Game Predictions,?Follow us at @BallislifeBets.
Sara Jane is a full-time content creator,?focusing on both college basketball, the NBA, NFL, and writer of www.ebooksnet.com.?Don’t forget to follow her on Twitter/YouTube/Kick/Twitch/Instagram: @GGirlSports.
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]]>http://www.ebooksnet.com/kyrie-irving-free-agency-odds/feed/2Dallas Mavericks v Atlanta HawksATLANTA, GEORGIA - APRIL 02: Kyrie Irving #2 of the Dallas Mavericks dribbles against the Atlanta Hawks during the first quarter at State Farm Arena on April 02, 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)James Harden Free Agency Odds
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http://www.ebooksnet.com/james-harden-free-agency-odds/#respondFri, 30 Jun 2023 17:21:50 +0000http://www.ebooksnet.com/?p=269231NBA Free Agency: Odds to land James Harden.
Today is the start of the 2023 NBA Free Agency, which beings today at 6 PM EST. Today allows teams to communicate and negotiate contracts with players, however, those contracts cannot be signed until July 6th, 2023. In this article, we will break down James Harden, and his oddsto land with certain teams. It is one of the most unpredictable times of the year, and all eyes will be watching tonight. If you are looking for the best betting odds and stats, here is information to know.
Restricted vs. Non-Restricted Free Agents
It's very important to know the difference between a restricted and non-restricted free agent.? When a player becomes an unrestricted free agent,it means they are free to talk and sign with any team.? With a restricted free agent,those players have the same right to talk to other teams, however their former team can match an offer and resign the player.? This is important, because it will affect the odds when it comes to betting on the signing of a particular player.
Notable Biggest 2023 Free Agents?
James Harden- Philadelphia 76ers
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - MAY 11: James Harden #1 of the Philadelphia 76ers dribbles against the Boston Celtics during the third quarter in game six of the Eastern Conference Semifinals in the 2023 NBA Playoffs at Wells Fargo Center on May 11, 2023 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images)
James Harden is a star in the NBA, and his name is not new when it comes to free agency.? In his 13-year NBA Career, Harden has played with the Oklahoma City Thunder, Houston Rockets, Brooklyn Nets, and the Philadelphia 76ers. We've seen Harden Traded to the Rockets, where he signed a four-year $160 million extension in 2017.? Additionally, he's been traded to the Brooklyn Nets, and from there, the 76ers.
This week, ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski reported that James Harden would opt into his $35.6 salary next season, and that the "76ers would work together to find a trade."? There was assumption that Harden would remain with the franchise, especially after they hired Head Coach Nick Nurse,however, that's not the case.
According to Sam Amick, from the Athletic, James Harden was "extremely upset" with the Sixers handling of the situation and made his dissatisfaction clear to the organization." Harden has a chance to win with Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey, along with a new head coach, but wishes to leave the organization.? Let's break down his contract, and odds to land with certain teams.
James Harden spent almost a decade of his career with the Houston Rockets, and rumors have been swirling that there may be a possible return back to Houston. The Rockets are a very young team and hired new Head Coach Ime Udoka.?A veteran presence would be great for this Houston team, who has an average age of 22.3.? The Rockets selected guard Amen Thompson in this year's draft, to play alongside guard Jalen Green.? Although James Harden is 33 years old, it's hard to envision him having a role off the bench. It was reported this week, Jalen Green made comments on a podcast, which didn't sit right with James Harden.?
According to Kelly Iko, from the Athletic, "James Harden caught wind of Jalen's podcast with Paul George, and he wasn't too keen on some of the things Jalen Green was saying... For Jalen to say it could be good, it could be bad, James didn't like that very much.??
It's important to note the Houston Rockets have the most cap space ($52 million) in the NBA and has some pieces to move for James Harden.? The question is, can Harden overcome Greens comments, and is he willing to lead a young core??
Los Angeles Clippers +200
To me, the Los Angeles Clippers make the most sense for James Harden.? Although the Clippers have superstars in Paul George and Kawhi Leonard, both haven't been able to stay healthy, and underachieved in the playoffs.? The Clippers are over the cap space by $71 million, however, have the assets to trade for Harden.? According to Sam Amick of The Athletic, Kawhi Leonard and Paul George "are said to be on board with the idea of Harden potentially joining their core." Also, there have been reports that Harden wants to play with Clippers, per Sports Illustrated.
Why the Clippers make sense.
The Los Angeles Clippers were without Kawhi Leonard and Paul George in 2022-2023 playoffs due to injury.? The Clippers finished 5th in the Western Conference and picked up veteran guard Russell Westbrook, who is now a free agent. We've seen Harden link up with other all-starts, such as Kevin Durant, Westbrook, and Kyrie Irving. If Leonard and George can stay healthy, this would be a potentially scary lineup, especially with the competition in the Western Conference.? With the new CBA coming out, it could potentially affect a deal like this, or the organizations financially ability to build around the stars.
The Clippers had point guards in the past, such as Terrance Mann, Reggie Jackson, John Wall, and most recently, Russell Westbrook. Along with injury concerns, it certainly feels Los Angeles has lacked a true point guard who can create their own shot, and score.? When healthy, both George and Leonard have lacked a true skilled point guard.? Although the Clippers are over the cap space, they can offer future first round picks and players.? That includes Marcus Morris ($ 17 Million), Nicolas Batum ($11 Million), Robert Covington ($11 Million), or Normal Powell ($18 Million). To be this make the most sense for Harden to go back to his hometownand chance to win an NBA Championship.
New York Knicks +300
The Knicks acquired start guard Jalen Brunson last free agency and surprised many by making the playoffs.? The Knicks have talent around Brunson, including RJ Barrett ($23 Million), Julius Randle ($25 Million), Josh Hart ($12 Million), and Mitchell Robinson ($15, Million).? Although Barrett is a great player, James Harden could be the player the Knicks so badly need alongside Jalen Brunson. According the Spotrac, the New York Knicks are over the cap space by $24 million.??
Jalen Brunson is an incredible, player, and I do think he's a better point guard then Harden is currently.? We've seen James Harden play off the ball with Kyrie Irving, and I personally feel he's better with the ball in his hands. It would be hard to envision how Brunson and Harden would work alongside each other, considering they are primary ball handlers. The Knicks declined to pick up Derrick Rose $15 million and have future first round picks.? However, the likely hood of them sending Barrett or Randle could be likely.? I truly believe there are better destinations for James Harden.?
Los Angeles Lakers +600
In a perfect world, James Harden would make sense for the Lakers.? Los Angeles has stars LeBron James and Anthony Davisand have experimented with the point guard position for some time now.? From Russell Westbrook to D'Angelo Russell, the Lakers have struggled to find a true point guard who can score, create their own shot consistently, and dish out the ball.?The Lakers are losing players in Malik Beasley and Mo Bamba, and only have a handful of players on contracts currently.
Austin Reaves proved how valuable he is as a guard in the playoffs. It's important to note both him and Rui Hachimura are both free agents.? The Los Angeles Lakers are over the cap space by $104 million, however, could truly use Harden at the point.
Phoenix Suns +1000
According to Sam Amick of the Athletic, James Harden has "serious interest" in getting traded to the Suns for multiple reasons, including the fact he attended Arizona State University, owns a house in Phoenix, and considers it his "third home of sorts."?
As we all know, Bradley Beal was traded from the Washington Wizards to the Phoenix Suns, which leaves them $80 million over the cap space.? Although Chris Paul was included in the trade deal, the Suns owe the next 7 years of first round picks to the Brooklyn Nets and Washington Wizards.? In addition, the suns don't have many trade pieces, aside from Deandre Ayton.? Besides, Devin Booker, Kevin Durant, Bradley Beal, and Ayton, the Suns have Cameron Payne and Ishmail Wainright. The Suns are lacking financially freedom and lack of depth at this time.? Before the Beal trade, I would say Harden to the suns makes perfect sense, but now it's looking like a long shot.?
Other options
There may be other Darkhorse teams considered, such as the Boston Celtics, and the Miami Heat.? My prediction will be the Clippers, based off their assets to trade, and the fact they have two superstars there.? However, with Max Strus and Gabe Vincent not guaranteed to come back, Miami needs a true playmaker alongside?Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo.? Brad Stevens and the Celtics traded back several times in the draft. Do they have something up their sleeves??
For More NBA Betting Info & Game Predictions,?Follow us at @BallislifeBets.
Sara Jane is a full-time content creator,?focusing on both college basketball, the NBA, NFL, and writer of www.ebooksnet.com.?Don’t forget to follow her on Twitter/YouTube/Kick/Twitch/Instagram: @GGirlSports.
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]]>http://www.ebooksnet.com/james-harden-free-agency-odds/feed/0Boston Celtics v Philadelphia 76ers - Game SixPHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - MAY 11: James Harden #1 of the Philadelphia 76ers dribbles against the Boston Celtics during the third quarter in game six of the Eastern Conference Semifinals in the 2023 NBA Playoffs at Wells Fargo Center on May 11, 2023 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images)
