NBA Rumors: Pro Sports Daily

Trail Blazers refute reports deal is done with Hedo Turkoglu

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July 3

Oregonian

"Despite published reports to the contrary, Hedo Turkoglu has not reached an agreement with the Trail Blazers, a team source announced at 2:20 p.m. Friday. ESPN first reported that a deal had been reached in principle, but general manager Kevin Pritchard and Turkoglu agent Lon Babby have not confirmed the deal. The 6-foot-10 small forward, one of the top commodities in this year's free agent market, arrived in Portland on Thursday afternoon and is expected to leave Saturday morning. If a deal is struck, the Blazers can not officially sign Turkoglu until July 8, when the league's free agent moratorium is lifted. Teams have been allowed to contact and negotiate with free agents since midnight ..."

Magic contact Rasheed Wallace's agent; likely won't re-sign Gortat

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July 3

Orlando Sentinel

"The Orlando Magic have contacted Rasheed Wallace's agent and likely will not match the Dallas Mavericks' pending offer sheet for Marcin Gortat and want perhaps one last chance at re-signing Hedo Turkoglu. Magic General Manager Otis Smith told the Sentinel on Friday that he has been in contact with Wallace's agent, Bill Strickland. Smith disputed reports that Wallace was making a visit to Orlando, although he said "it was possible" a some point. Smith agreed that Wallace, a veteran 6 feet 11 power forward, would be a nice "fit"alongside center Dwight Howard, but "it just depends on what Rasheed wants to do." Gortat, according to reports, has committed to sign the Mavs' offer sheet, with ..."

Avery Johnson is Pistons' lead candidate

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July 3

Detroit Free Press

"Pistons president of basketball operations Joe Dumars needs to get moving if he wants to have a coach in place by the time the team leaves for play in the Las Vegas summer league next week. Former Pistons coach Doug Collins withdrew his name from consideration, which would appear to open the door for former Dallas Mavericks coach Avery Johnson. Collins told ESPN.com late Wednesday night that he thanked Dumars for the consideration, but he would remain an analyst for TNT. Johnson appears to be the front-runner to replace Michael Curry, who was suddenly fired Tuesday on the eve of the NBA's free-agency period. Dumars has said he wants an experienced coach to lead the Pistons as he tries to ..."

Turkoglu, Blazers agree

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July 3

ESPN.com

"Hedo Turkoglu has reached an agreement in principle to join the Portland Trail Blazers, according to sources. Although a verbal commitment may be announced sooner, the terms of the contract cannot be finalized until Wednesday, after the NBA informs teams what next year's salary cap will be. Turkoglu The Orlando Magic's recent trade for Vince Carter, who has a large salary and plays small forward -- which is Turkoglu's position -- made it highly unlikely Turkoglu would be back in Orlando. The Toronto Raptors expressed interest, but that was constrained by their other efforts to keep Shawn Marion and Carlos Delfino. Turkoglu, a 6-10 forward from Turkey who played a prominent role in the ..."

Kidd Staying Put

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July 3

Hoopsworld.com

"In this week's section geared exclusively towards the latest rumors floating around the NBA … Kidd Staying Put: An informed source has told HOOPSWORLD that Jason Kidd intends to return to the Dallas Mavericks for a three-year, $24 million contract. Kidd has indicated to the Mavericks and New York Knicks that he'll mull over their respective offers over the weekend. The Knicks are said to be offering Jason a guaranteed three years at the Mid-Level Exception (MLE) which works out to be approximately $18.1 million. Barring a surprising change of events, Kidd is expected to notify the Dallas on Monday that he'll take their offer which would start at approximately $7.25 million for the ..."

Griffin eager for chance with Suns

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July 3

Arizona Republic

"Taylor Griffin was in the green room of Madison Square Garden's theater on draft night just like the top picks. But when Phoenix drafted him four hours into it, he had left to eat with family, including the top pick, brother Blake, who brought him there. "I never got my draft hat," he said. Griffin got his Suns gear this week, donning practice duds for workouts at US Airways Center. He's getting acclimated to the team he could make - even as a second-round pick with no guarantees. The 6-foot-7, 235-pound Oklahoma forward could be the 13th man on the Suns roster. With the chances of Amaré Stoudemire remaining a Sun increasing, Phoenix would have 10 guaranteed contracts once first-round ..."

C's press for Rasheed Wallace

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July 3

Boston Herald

"The Celtics' hopes are now obvious. Rasheed Wallace is Plan A. The other free agents on their list are strictly Plan B. With the Big Three lending their considerable clout to the recruitment process, a large Celtics delegation visited the 7-foot free agent in Detroit yesterday afternoon and wasted no time in offering him a contract, according to two well-placed league sources close to the negotiations. According to both sources, the C's have offered Wallace a two-year contract for the $5.8 million mid-level exception. Danny Ainge, the team's executive director of basketball operations, Kevin Garnett, Ray Allen, Paul Pierce, coach Doc Rivers and co-owner Wyc Grousbeck were all on hand for ..."

Rubio hasn't made a decision about Spain

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July 3

Hoopsworld.com

"More Moves Made: Day 3 of NBA Free agency had a lot more movement. Marcin Gortat gave a verbal commitment to the Dallas Mavericks, while Ron Artest chose the Lakers, Trevor Ariza in turn chose the Rockets and Rasheed Wallace got an offer from Boston that's he's seriously considering. Here are some notes for today. Bibby And Hawks: Mike Bibby and the Atlanta Hawks have exchanged some contract ideas and sources close to the situation say they are making progress towards a deal. The Philadelphia 76ers apparently reached out to gauge Bibby's interest and were turned away. Sources near the situation say Bibby's camp made it clear Mike wants to return to Atlanta and the Hawks seem like they ..."

Timberwolves' draft pick Ricky Rubio reportedly will stay in Spain for two years

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July 2

St. Paul Pioneer Press

"The Minnesota Timberwolves' top draft pick, Ricky Rubio, 18, will remain in Spain to play for his DKV Joventut basketball team for the remaining two years of his contract rather than try to move to the NBA this season, El Periodico reported today. The Barcelona newspaper also says Rubio, who was paid $97,000 last season, plans to withdraw his contract lawsuit against DKV Joventut."

Suns have to trade Stoudemire

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July 2

East Valley Tribune

columnist Scott Bordow

"To know Amaré Stoudemire is to understand that what comes out of his mouth shouldn't be taken seriously. The man is a walking, talking contradiction. Stoudemire is done; so are Suns He all but campaigned for the firing of coach Mike D'Antoni, then, feeling handcuffed by Terry Porter, longed for the offensive freedom D'Antoni gave him. He was ecstatic when the Suns traded for Shaquille O'Neal, saying the move would allow him to play power forward, his natural position. A few months later, he was complaining that there wasn't enough room in the lane for him to operate. And, of course, there are his constant proclamations about wanting to be "the guy" yet never wanting to be held accountable. ..."

Cleveland Cavaliers reportedly make a play for Ron Artest and Trevor Ariza

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July 2

Cleveland Plain Dealer

"Two players who didn't seem like they were going to be available to the Cavaliers ended up in the team's crosshairs at the end of day one of the NBA free-agency period. According to several league sources, the Cavs are attempting to land Houston Rockets free-agent forward Ron Artest, and the pitch included a meeting with LeBron James on Tuesday night in Los Angeles as both were in Southern California for various events. In addition, a league source indicated the team is trying to attract Los Angeles Lakers swingman Trevor Ariza, who appears to be disgruntled with the Lakers' early attempts to re-sign him. Ariza's agent, David Lee, told the Riverside, Calif., Press-Enterprise Wednesday, ..."

Trevor Ariza talks with Rockets

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July 2

Los Angeles Times

"The Trevor Ariza NBA tour has officially begun. The Lakers' free-agent forward is meeting today in Las Vegas with Houston Rockets General Manager Daryl Morey and Coach Rick Adelman, according to Ariza's agent. "They both flew in to meet him," agent David Lee said. Ariza has also had a discussion with Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James about joining the Cavaliers."

Artest mulling options in free agency

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July 2

San Antonio Express-News

"If LeBron James or Kobe Bryant are looking for a little help, Ron Artest is taking calls. The Rockets star forward, an unrestricted free agent, will consider a team's chances of winning an NBA championship when deciding where he'll bring his skills next season, his agent says. David Bauman said Wednesday that his client would like to return to Houston, but Artest would also think about signing with a contending team - and that might rule out the Rockets if Yao Ming's broken left foot keeps him out for the season. Bauman wouldn't say which teams have contacted him about Artest. But he said he would expect Artest to talk to James and Bryant if the Cavaliers or Los Angeles Lakers were ..."

Dallas Mavericks make offer to free-agent center Gortat

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July 2

Dallas Morning News

"The Dallas Mavericks have made an offer to Marcin Gortat, the 6-11 center from Poland who has become one of the hottest free agents in the NBA."

Report: Rudy Fernandez 'unhappy' with Blazers

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July 2

OregonLive.com

"Chris Sheridan and ESPN.com have been told today by "sources" of some displeasure coming out of Spain surrounding the Trail Blazers possible acquisition of free agent Hedo Turkoglu: Portland's pursuit of a certain player from Turkey has infuriated the Trail Blazers' lone remaining Spanish player, Rudy Fernandez, to the point where he'd prefer to play in Greece, Russia or even Spain again, ESPN.com learned Tuesday.A league source told ESPN.com that Fernandez has already been courted informally by European powerhouses Olympiacos, Real Madrid, FC Barcelona and CSKA Moscow as word spread that the Blazers had become the apparent front-runners to land free agent Hedo Turkoglu."

Cavs' Anderson Varejao to be free agent

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July 2

Akron Beacon Journal

"In a move that surprised no one, Cavaliers forward Anderson Varejao opted out of the final year of his contract, one that would bring him about $6.2 million, to test the free-agent waters. Two seasons ago, Varejao and the Cavs were involved in a protracted contract dispute that strained the relationship between the sides. Any differences were eventually worked out and Varejao has said on more than one occasion during the past year that he wants to remain with the team. Cavs General Manager Danny Ferry has said Varejao remains a valued part of the organization. This season, Varejao had career highs in starts (42) and scoring (8.6 points per game), but he is recognized for the defensive ..."

Shaquille O'Neal hints that his fun with the Cleveland Cavaliers could last beyond the 2009-10 season

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July 2

Cleveland Plain Dealer

"There was some laughter and fun this afternoon at Shaquille O'Neal's official introduction to Cleveland. With Shaq, there always is. But there was also plenty of business. Wearing a black suit with a pink shirt and pink tie, O'Neal wanted to make two points as he spoke to media, team personnel, children from St. Martin DePorres school and season ticket and suite holders. One was his intention to help the Cavaliers and his friend LeBron James win a championship next season. The other is he's still hoping to land a two-year contract extension. He made both points with his brand of humor with firmness. "My motto is simple," O'Neal said. "Win a Ring for the King." Then -- after showing a ..."

Lakers are far apart with free agents Trevor Ariza and Lamar Odom

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July 2

Los Angeles Times

"The Lakers had a near-perfect June, breezing through the NBA Finals in five games and capping it off with a victory parade and championship rally under sunny Southern California skies. The first day of July, however, wasn't as picturesque. The Lakers remained far apart on negotiations Wednesday with their two main free-agent pieces, forwards Lamar Odom and Trevor Ariza. In particular, Ariza and his agent weren't thrilled by the Lakers' annual offer of $5.6 million over an unspecified number of years. Ariza, 24, was hoping for $7 million to $8 million a year. Odom, 29, is believed to be seeking $10 million a year, though it was unclear what the Lakers offered him. Ariza's agent, David Lee, ..."

Gortat would look great in Rockets' red

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July 2

Houston Chronicle

"Marcin Gortat told the Rockets he wanted playing time and to be part of a winning team. Welcome to the intersection of opportunity and availability. Now, if his agent will stop yapping about money long enough to let the young man sign the contract Daryl Morey offered, the Rockets will have taken a step in the right direction. "We really believe in this kid," a member of the Rockets' brain trust said. "We see him as a draft pick." That's because the 6-11, 245-pound Gortat has played just 825 NBA minutes, because he's only 25 years old and because he has many of the skills the Rockets are looking for in a big man. The Rockets have been tracking him closely for the last 18 months and believe ..."

Not just Wallace

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July 2

San Antonio Express-News

"It is widely believed Rasheed Wallace is at the top of the Spurs free-agent target list. Yet they are hardly putting all their eggs in the Wallace basket. In addition to Wallace, the Spurs have contacted at least two other big men during the early throes of free agency. According to an NBA source, the Spurs have also been in touch with Antonio McDyess, Wallace's soon-to-be-former Detroit teammate, and Dallas forward Brandon Bass. McDyess would be an intriguing fallback option should the Wallace plan not work out. The Pistons are interested in re-signing McDyess, who returned to Detroit after being included in the Chauncey Billups-Allen Iverson deal last fall, but it is believed he could be ..."

Free-agent Miller not adjusting price for Sixers

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July 2

PhillyBurbs.com

"A struggling economy, teams gearing up for 2010 free agency and impending decreases in the NBA's salary cap and luxury-tax threshold resulted in the Jazz's Carlos Boozer and Mehmet Okur declining to opt out of their contracts Tuesday. Boozer and Okur, who had been expected to be in demand if they hit the free-agent market, didn't want to try it because they knew signing for less was quite possible under the circumstances. With that in mind, might Sixers' point guard Andre Miller, who became a free agent Wednesday, and agent Andy Miller (no relation) have to adjust what they want? The answer apparently is no. A three-year contract worth close to $30 million - the 33-year-old Miller made ..."

Time to go shopping

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July 2

Indianapolis Star

"The hill in the Eastern Conference continues to get steeper for the Pacers. Washington, Atlanta and Detroit have already made significant moves to improve their roster. You're not about to see president Larry Bird and general manager David Morway suddenly start hammering away on the panic button. The Pacers say be patient, they have a three-year plan. You're probably thinking that's easier said than done, especially since you haven't seen the Pacers in the playoffs since 2006. The Pacers are optimistic they'll be able to sign some good players this summer. They just plan on doing it with a "Dollar General" shopping mentality. Don't expect the Pacers, who have about $8 million to spend, to ..."

Celtics to court Rasheed Wallace

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July 2

Boston Herald

"Danny Ainge kicked off free agency yesterday by targeting a player who reportedly is going to be very receptive to Celtics overtures - former Pistons center Rasheed Wallace. "We hope to meet with him soon," Ainge, the Celtics general manager, said last night, debunking an Internet report that team management already had met with Wallace on Tuesday night. Wallace, who also is expected to receive pitches from San Antonio and Cleveland, can expect a heavy recruiting effort from several members of the C's organization."

Ariza keeps his intentions unknown

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July 2

Orange County Register

"Trevor Ariza wants to remain with the Lakers. He said as much during his exit interview. But the free agent didn't say much more than that during a radio interview Wednesday, declining to reveal if he will re-sign with the team. Ariza, Lamar Odom and Shannon Brown became free agents Tuesday night. Ariza is expected to be one of the hottest free agents on the market because of his athleticism and defensive abilities. He is expected try to double his current $3.1 million Lakers contract. "It's a business and I understand that business side of it," Ariza said on KSPN/710. "(And) I have to do what I have to do in the business side of things. It's exciting, it's a good experience for me and I'm ..."

Glen Davis monitors offers

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July 2

Boston Herald

"Glen Davis' first free agent experience appears to be off to an expedient start. The Celtics forward's agent, John Hamilton, received what he termed "a couple" of calls from potential suitors after midnight Tuesday. "Things are generally slow for restricted free agents, but I was pleased to have a couple of them call," said Hamilton, who declined to name the teams. "I guess some teams have identified him." Now that the Celtics have made their qualifying offer to Davis, all general manager Danny Ainge can do is sit back and watch the market develop. With matching rights on the young forward, Ainge now gets to see what the market will bear. It could be a lot. "Right now, Glen will be out ..."

Spurs get in line to woo Wallace

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July 2

San Antonio Express-News

"The Spurs put in a call to representatives for Rasheed Wallace not long after NBA free agency opened at 11:01 on Tuesday night. Now, the wait is on. "There's interest, mutual interest, I would say," Wallace's agent, Bill Strickland, said Wednesday. "I would say the Spurs have a job to do." Wallace, considered to be the top free-agent target for a Spurs team in desperate search for a big man, fielded similar calls from Orlando, Cleveland, Boston and elsewhere in the first few minutes of free agency. All of the above teams, including the Spurs, can make Wallace approximately the same offer, a short-term deal starting at the mid-level exception, expected to be worth around $5.6 million. The ..."

Two suitors for Millsap?

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July 2

Salt Lake Tribune

"Only a day into free agency, Paul Millsap 's options appeared to narrow to two suitors in the Jazz and Oklahoma City, while Millsap's agent, DeAngelo Simmons , couldn't be sure how long it would take for either to make an offer. Simmons said he'd researched Wednesday how long it had taken previous restricted free agents to reach agreements in the past. The answers varied, from a matter of days to a matter of weeks to sometimes more than a month. "It's going to be time-consuming and it's going to take a minute or two," said Simmons, who had not had a second conversation with Jazz general manager Kevin O'Connor as of late Wednesday afternoon. "All we can do is be prepared for the ..."

Hornets are looking to land needed help including Jannero Pargo

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July 2

New Orleans Times-Picayune

"Although Hornets General Manager Jeff Bower initially said addressing the team's frontcourt depth was a priority in free agency, one of the first calls he made after midnight Wednesday morning was to guard Jannero Pargo's agent, Mark Bartelstein. Teams could begin negotiating with free agents at 12:01 a.m. Wednesday, but players cannot sign contracts until July 8. "I talked with Jeff, and they remain interested in Jannero," Bartelstein said. "But he said they still have things to work out with their roster." Bower could be working on a trade before any contract offer is extended to a free agent. Multiple league sources said last week the Hornets have been shopping starting center Tyson ..."

Seeking Legitimacy, the Knicks Pursue Kidd and Hill

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July 2

New York Times

"The Knicks are a team caught between eras, with one foot in the past, their heart in 2010 and a head full of conflicting goals. Their off-season shopping list reflects the confusion, but also abundant optimism. On the first day of free agency, Knicks officials met with Jason Kidd and reached out to Grant Hill, two aging stars who still have enough ability and clout to restore some pride to Madison Square Garden. Landing either player is a long shot, but it demonstrates an aggressive agenda by Donnie Walsh, the team president, and Coach Mike D'Antoni as they try to resuscitate the franchise. They also made contact with the restricted free agents David Lee and Nate Robinson, two young ..."

Nets' plans all for naught?

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July 2

Bergen Record

"As Nets president Rod Thorn explained on a conference call with season-ticket holders the reasons Vince Carter was traded, he talked about what the team could do next year. "We're going to be far enough under the salary cap if we so choose to [we can] sign two max-out type players," Thorn said. As of this writing, the Nets should be roughly $27 million under the cap next summer when LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, Chris Bosh, Amare Stoudemire and Carlos Boozer could be free agents. But does anyone really believe the Nets will sign two maximum contracts next summer? This is no knock on Thorn, one of the NBA's best and shrewdest executives. He's going to do everything he can to make the Nets ..."

Childress in play?

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July 2

Atlanta Journal-Constitution

"From Athens to Milwaukee and back to Atlanta, the name Josh Childress is being tossed around in every direction these days. Childress is in Milwaukee today visiting the Bucks with his agent, Jim Tanner. What that means for the Hawks is that they might get a do-over with Childress, a restricted free agent again this summer as he was last summer. Last summer they lost him as an asset when he chose to sign with Greek power Olympiakos (for $20 million post taxes). What the Hawks didn't lose was the right of first refusal on Childress if he decided to return to the NBA this summer. And two of my spies have made it clear that were Childress to receive any sort of "reasonable" NBA offer (the $5.8 ..."

Celtics have target

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July 2

Boston Globe

"Danny Ainge was on the telephone at his HealthPoint office when the NBA free agent market opened at midnight yesterday. Among Ainge's first calls was to Bill Strickland, agent for center-forward Rasheed Wallace. "I made some calls,'' said Ainge, the Celtics' president of basketball operations. "Rasheed is a guy we have interest in. We made calls with quite a few free agents' representatives late last night from my office to let them know we have interest. We contacted 10 free agents and tried to get some feedback in what they are looking for and their interest long term. But that's about it. Mostly for something down the road.'' The Celtics' interest in Wallace is not for the long term, ..."

Nuggets in L.A. to get Birdman back in Denver

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July 2

Denver Post

"After the first official day of free-agent negotiations, there is optimism that the Nuggets will be able to sign unrestricted free agent Chris Andersen. "I think it's fair to say that both sides are motivated," Nuggets director of basketball operations Mark Warkentien said Wednesday afternoon. "That's why we're in L.A. and meeting today." Warkentien is currently in Los Angeles meeting with Andersen's representatives, notably Denver-based attorney Mark Bryant and agent Steve Heumann of the L.A.-based Creative Arts Agency. Bryant said the goal is to try to get Andersen a five-year deal around the mid-level exception (in the $5 million range annually). "I think that's possible. But we're a ..."

Gortat drawing interest

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July 2

Florida Today

"As the free-agent offers for Hedo Turkoglu reportedly continue to soar to as high as $50 million, the likelihood of reserve center Marcin Gortat returning to the Orlando Magic also has increased. The Houston Rockets launched an all-out pursuit of Gortat on Tuesday, meeting with the Magic's coveted center minutes after midnight early Wednesday morning. Rockets general manager Daryl Moray announced his recruitment of Gortat with a mass e-mail on his Facebook.com page and he also urged Rockets fans to leave notes for the Polish-born player at the e-mail address rocketsfanslovegortat@gmail.com. But because Gortat, a two-year NBA player, is a restricted free agent, the Magic have the right to ..."

Raps setting their sights on Knicks' big man Lee

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July 2

Toronto Star

"The Raptors are widening their NBA free-agent search that now includes one of the more intriguing players on the market. Capping a whirlwind 24 hours to open the negotiating period, league sources say Toronto is trying to obtain David Lee, an energetic rebounder who is a New York Knicks restricted free agent. The sources couldn't say whether the move on Lee would be a straight offer or whether it would be a sign-and-trade transaction with any of Toronto's current free agents. Lee's name is added to a list that began with Charlie Villanueva – who ultimately signed a five-year, $40 million deal with the Detroit Pistons – and Denver's Linas Kleiza, a solid if unspectacular part not in the ..."

Suns pursuing McDyess, other bigs

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July 2

Arizona Republic

"Suns General Manager Steve Kerr spent a few hours at Grant Hill's Orlando house Wednesday to begin re-recruiting him, and team personnel put in calls to free-agent big men Antonio McDyess, Channing Frye, Sean May, Joe Smith and Chris Wilcox. Nobody can attest to the interest or the sales pitch better than McDyess or Hill. Beyond using some of the mid-level exception for Hill, the Suns will bank on their system, city, point guard Steve Nash and winning history to lure others with minimum contracts and maybe the biennial exception. Hill is receiving interest from several teams, including Boston, Denver and New York, because he rejuvenated his career in Phoenix. The Denver Post reported he ..."

Jazz plan to re-sign Millsap — unless offer's 'crazy'

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July 2

The Deseret News

"As Carlos Boozer trade rumors continued to swirl Wednesday, Jazz restricted free agent Paul Millsap negotiated the first full day of the NBA's summer free-agency shopping market. Much of the interest in Millsap is known to have come from Oklahoma City, which has enough team payroll salary cap space to sign Utah's backup power forward to an offer sheet. For now, however, caution seems to be the name of the game. "I think that in this economy, a lot of teams are second-guessing themselves and doing their research to make sure they're making the wise decision," said DeAngelo Simmons, Millsap's uncle and representative. Even if Oklahoma City and Millsap agreed to terms, the Thunder would face ..."

Two suitors for Millsap?

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July 2

Salt Lake Tribune

"Only a day into free agency, Paul Millsap 's options appeared to narrow to two suitors in the Jazz and Oklahoma City, while Millsap's agent, DeAngelo Simmons , couldn't be sure how long it would take for either to make an offer. Simmons said he'd researched Wednesday how long it had taken previous restricted free agents to reach agreements in the past. The answers varied, from a matter of days to a matter of weeks to sometimes more than a month. "It's going to be time-consuming and it's going to take a minute or two," said Simmons, who had not had a second conversation with Jazz general manager Kevin O'Connor as of late Wednesday afternoon. "All we can do is be prepared for the ..."

Wolves to interview Williams

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July 2

St. Paul Pioneer Press

"The Timberwolves' coaching search has its first confirmed candidate. Portland Trail Blazers assistant Monty Williams told The Oregonian on Wednesday that he will interview for the position, perhaps as early as this weekend. "I'm flattered," Williams said. "I'm someone who wants to be a part of a rebuilding process. But at the same time, I'm still a Blazer. So there's initial excitement, but in reality, nothing has changed. I'm looking forward to the process." Williams, 37, has been an assistant in Portland for the past four seasons and is widely credited with the development of Travis Outlaw and Nicolas Batum. Williams played 10 seasons as a forward for the New York Knicks and San ..."

With the free-agency period underway, the Hornets are looking to land needed help

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July 2

New Orleans Times-Picayune

"lthough Hornets General Manager Jeff Bower initially said addressing the team's frontcourt depth was a priority in free agency, one of the first calls he made after midnight Wednesday morning was to guard Jannero Pargo's agent, Mark Bartelstein. Teams could begin negotiating with free agents at 12:01 a.m. Wednesday, but players cannot sign contracts until July 8. "I talked with Jeff, and they remain interested in Jannero," Bartelstein said. "But he said they still have things to work out with their roster." Bower could be working on a trade before any contract offer is extended to a free agent. Multiple league sources said last week the Hornets have been shopping starting center Tyson ..."

Thunder talking with 2 free agents

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July 2

The Oklahoman

"In the opening hour of free agency, the Thunder targeted two players who could help solidify Oklahoma City's inside game for the foreseeable future. Thunder general manager Sam Presti made calls to representatives of forward Paul Millsap and center Marcin Gortat shortly after teams could begin negotiating with free agents at 11 p.m. Central Time on Tuesday, according to multiple sources.Millsap, a 6-foot-8 forward with Utah, and Gortat, a 6-foot-11 center with Orlando, both are restricted free agents, giving their teams the right to match any offer Oklahoma City presents.Millsap, 24, and Gortat, 25, are both reserves but are considered two of the best up-and-coming big men in the league. ..."

Thunder enters preliminary talks with Utah's Paul Millsap

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July 2

The Oklahoman

"The Thunder has reached out to representatives for Paul Millsap, the Utah Jazz restricted free agent forward, according to a source with knowledge of negotiations. Oklahoma City entered into preliminary talks with Millsap's camp about 30 minutes into the start of free agency late Tuesday night. Teams were permitted to begin negotiating with free agents at 11 p.m. Central Time. Jazz officials were the first to call Millsap's agent, DeAngelo Summers, but the Thunder was second in line shortly after Utah general manager Kevin O'Connor ignited talks of re-signing the 6-foot-8 Millsap. Early discussions between the Thunder and Millsap's representatives have been described as positive, but there ..."

Thunder interested in Orlando free agent center Marcin Gortat

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July 2

The Oklahoman

"Add Marcin Gortat to Oklahoma City's free-agent wish list. The Thunder has expressed legitimate interest in Orlando's reserve center, making the restricted free agent one of a handful of players the team targeted as soon as free agency began late Tuesday night. Oklahoma City general manager Sam Presti called Gortat's agent, Guy Zucker, about 45 minutes after teams could begin negotiating with free agents at 11 p.m. Central Time on Tuesday. An offer isn't believed to have been made, but the two sides did have more of an in-depth discussion regarding contract possibilities although the nature of the call was more along the lines of general interest. Gortat, however, appears to be a secondary ..."

Sources: Pistons, Ben Gordon agree to $50M deal

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July 1

Detroit News

"The Pistons have reached an agreement with free-agent guard Ben Gordon. The Pistons offered Gordon a five-year deal worth more than $50 million. According to sources on both sides, Gordon accepted the parameters of the deal. No deal can be signed until July 8. Gordon and Charlie Villanueva showed up at the practice facility Wednesday to meet with president Joe Dumars. Negotiations with Villanueva were ongoing. Gordon and Villanueva, teammates on the 2003-04 Connecticut team, have been the top free-agent targets for the Pistons for a couple weeks. Gordon, 26, averaged 20.7 points for the Bulls last season, and was brilliant in the seven-game playoff series against the Celtics, averaging 24 ..."

Mavs offer Kidd three-year deal

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July 1

ESPN.com

"The Dallas Mavericks opened the free-agent period early Wednesday by letting guard Jason Kidd know that they are prepared to sign him to a three-year deal, according to sources with knowledge of the negotiations. The specifics to be determined in those talks center on the money, with the Mavericks believed to be proposing a deal in the $21 million to $25 million range for the 36-year-old guard, and Kidd said to be seeking more. Kidd also attended his scheduled Wednesday meeting at Madison Square Garden with New York Knicks president Donnie Walsh and coach Mike D'Antoni, who works with Kidd as an assistant coach with Team USA. Kidd has legitimate interest in the Knicks given his strong ties ..."

Gordon, Villanueva visit Pistons; Gordon could get a deal today

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July 1

Detroit Free Press

"Free agents Ben Gordon and Charlie Villanueva flew into Detroit today for a meeting with Pistons president of basketball operations Joe Dumars and could be approaching deals to bring their talents to Motown. Both are unrestricted free agents and their acquisitions would be significant as Dumars could then concentrate on upgrading the talent along the frontcourt. The Pistons are the clear favorite to sign Gordon and a deal could be reached as early as this afternoon as the Bulls have salary-cap issues that may make their interest in retaining Gordon moot. It's expected he will command a salary in the range of $9 to $10 million per year. Gordon, 26, a five-year veteran with the Chicago ..."

Jason Kidd holds three-hour meeting with Knicks at Madison Square Garden

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July 1

New York Daily News

"Jason Kidd met for three hours with Knicks officials early Wednesday at Madison Square Garden. Kidd, the veteran free agent point guard, gave Dallas the first crack at talking to him when he met with Mavericks owner Mark Cuban just after midnight. The Knicks feel they have a good chance to sign Kidd. However, the Mavs can offer him more money than the Knicks. Kidd greeted reporters but declined to comment."

Turkoglu to meet with Blazers' hierarchy

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July 1

ESPN.com

"Portland Trail Blazers coach Nate McMillan is flying to Orlando to have a Wednesday night dinner with the Blazers' top free-agent target, Hedo Turkoglu. Turkoglu's agent, Lon Babby, said Wednesday that Turkoglu will then travel to Oregon for a Thursday tour of the Blazers' facilities and meetings with Portland general manager Kevin Pritchard and assistant GM Tom Penn. With the Blazers projected to have $8 million to $9 million in salary-cap space this summer -- with firm figures not known until the league announces next season's salary cap on July 8 -- and the Orlando Magic lacking the financial flexibility to re-sign Turkoglu after trading for Vince Carter last week, Turkoglu is widely ..."

Mark Cuban set to talk with Jason Kidd before Knicks' meeting

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July 1

New York Daily News

"By the time the Knicks take Jason Kidd on a grand tour of Madison Square Garden Wednesday, Mark Cuban will have already made an offer to keep the veteran point guard in Dallas. Cuban, the Mavs owner, confirmed to The News in an e-mail Tuesday that he planned to meet with Kidd at 12:01 a.m., the official start of the free agent recruiting period. It is believed that the Mavs will offer Kidd a contract starting at $8 million per over two years with an option for a third. Unless the Knicks negotiate a sign-and-trade with Kidd and Dallas, the club can offer him only its mid-level exception starting at approximately $5.8 million. Knicks president Donnie Walsh and coach Mike D'Antoni are hoping ..."

Blazers pursue Hedo Turkoglu as NBA free agency opens

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July 1

Oregonian

"The Trail Blazers' summer agenda was revealed late Tuesday night at the minute the free agent market opened. That's when general manager Kevin Pritchard and assistant general manager Tom Penn called agent Lon Babby to begin the courtship of small forward Hedo Turkoglu. "Kevin Pritchard and Tom Penn called me at the earliest possible moment and expressed enthusiasm for engaging in discussions about Hedo becoming a Trail Blazer," Babby said late Tuesday night. "We have begun that process." Pritchard said he first contacted guard Brandon Roy and forward LaMarcus Aldridge, who both are seeking contract extensions with the Blazers, before inquiring about Turkoglu. Turkoglu, 30, is a 6-foot-10 ..."

Nuggets, Andersen working on deal

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July 1

Denver Post

"The negotiations between Chris Andersen and the Nuggets have begun. Nuggets vice president of basketball operations Mark Warkentien is currently in Los Angeles, meeting with Andersen's representatives, notably Denver-based attorney Mark Bryant and agent Steve Huemann of the Los Angeles-based Creative Arts Agency. Bryant said the goal is to try to get Andersen a five-year deal around the mid-level exception (in the $5 million range annually). "I think that's possible. But we're a team player," Bryant said this morning. "We'll make the necessary adjustments if we can and find the right fit." There are numerous teams inquiring about the NBA's No. 2 shot-blocker from last season, notably ..."

Suns, 2 words on Amaré: Be careful

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July 1

Arizona Republic

"The NBA rumor mill is so out of control that this message came across Twitter on Tuesday: Breaking News! Amar'e Stoudemire to the Lakers!! He might take less money to win a championship. The sender? Amaré Stoudemire. Even the Suns forward is having fun with a big decision that the franchise has been mulling. Do you trade him, gain financial freedom but likely lose fans and games while in an unpopular rebuilding mode? Or do you continue to build around your go-to guy but risk being locked into a no-leverage future? When a team is willing to deal its centerpiece, "it's generally not for talent purposes but for financial reasons or personality conflicts," Orlando Magic Senior Vice President ..."

Utah Jazz first to call new free agent Paul Millsap

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July 1

Salt Lake Tribune

"The Jazz were the first team to express interest in restricted free agent Paul Millsap at the start of the negotiating period Tuesday night, with general manager Kevin O'Connor calling at 10 p.m., according to Millsap's agent, DeAngelo Simmons. Simmons called O'Connor a "class act" for the gesture, adding, "I think it was great that they called and expressed their interest. That's good on their part." As for which team called second, Simmons would not say. He spoke with several teams, most of whom wanted to talk about how Millsap would fit in their system, but Oklahoma City was one of the teams that called. "Nothing concrete in stone," Simmons said. "A lot of guys called. They were ..."

Blazers open for business in '09 free agent market

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July 1

Oregonian

"Wednesday is the day Trail Blazers general manager Kevin Pritchard has been pinpointing for years: The opening of the 2009 NBA free agent market. With calculated trades and contract decisions, Pritchard has positioned the Blazers to have a payroll of $50 million, making them one of five teams that expect to come in under the NBA's salary cap, which is expected to be announced July 8. Because the Blazers will be under the cap, they can lure a free agent by offering the amount they are under, which is expected to be between $7 million and $9 million. Or the Blazers could opt to make an uneven trade, meaning they can execute a deal without having to match the salaries of the players ..."

Ben Gordon, Charlie Villanueva visit Pistons today

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July 1

Detroit News

"Chicago Bulls guard Ben Gordon and Milwaukee Bucks forward Charlie Villanueva will be at the Pistons' practice facility Wednesday, meeting with president Joe Dumars and maybe take a tour of the area and do a little home shopping. That's how serious the courtship is between the two free agents and the Pistons. There is a chance a verbal commitment could be reached soon."

Bryant decides not to opt out

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July 1

Orange County Register

"Kobe Bryant isn't going anywhere, just as he said. At least it seems not for the coming year. By not contacting the Lakers via phone or fax by Tuesday's 9 p.m. deadline, indications are the star guard elected not to terminate his contract early and become an unrestricted free agent, a move that could give him leverage down the road. Bryant, who will earn $23 million next season, is believed to be seeking a new five-year deal from the Lakers worth $135 million. "This is my home," Bryant told the crowd during a rally at the Coliseum after the team's celebratory parade. Bryant, who turns 31 in August, could have opted out and sought another team to pay his hefty asking price. But only ..."

Stalking Tall

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July 1

New Orleans Times-Picayune

"After addressing his team's backcourt needs through the NBA draft last week, Hornets General Manager Jeff Bower now turns his attention toward landing a quality backup frontcourt player in free agency. Bower was able to begin negotiating with free agents at midnight today. Though teams can negotiate deals for the next seven days, players cannot sign contracts until July 8. With use of mid-level and bi-annual exceptions, the Hornets could spend up to $7.4 million on free agents. But they likely won't spend near that amount. Their payroll has escalated to $77.5 million, well over the expected salary cap. The Hornets could sign one or two free agents using just their mid-level exception, ..."

Nets will wait for next year's free-agent class

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July 1

Bergen Record

"The free agent negotiation period began at midnight with Nets' executives Rod Thorn and Kiki Vandeweghe on their phones, but not ringing any doorbells. Next summer, with about $27 million to spend, the Nets will be in position to show up at the home of LeBron James, Dwyane Wade or Chris Bosh. This time around, Net officials will abuse their cellphone minutes' plan, maybe dine with a player here or there, and mostly bide their time before signing someone. "I think we're going to sit back and see what happens," said Thorn, the Nets' president. "I think at the end of the day it's a more prudent way to do it. We're not in the ballgame for those guys who think they're going to get a ton of ..."

Late moves may factor hugely in free agency for Pistons

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July 1

Detroit Free Press

"The final two days before the NBA's free-agency period begins brought two developments that could impact how the Pistons proceed when they can start signing free agents next Wednesday. Utah's restricted free-agent power forward Paul Millsap could be in play as the Jazz will have to pay power forward Carlos Boozer and center Mehmet Okur, who both decided Tuesday against opting out of their contracts and will remain with the Jazz. That doesn't stop trade possibilities. The Jazz has said it wants to retain Millsap, but that could prove tricky. Teams may shy away in these dire economic times from Boozer's $12.6-millon salary for next season. Millsap, who stands 6-feet-8, is coming off a ..."

Can Lakers keep pieces to championship puzzle?

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July 1

Orange County Register

columnist Jeff Miller

"Even fate, it now appears, is a Lakers fan. Can't you just see fate, in a purple-and-gold feather boa, Kobe jersey and Kurt Rambis glasses, looking cheerleader enough to work in local radio? That can be the only explanation for why everything keeps coming up Laker these days. From the forgiving end of the regular season to the accommodating run through the playoffs to the friendly pairing with overmatched Orlando to this: A free-agent period thin enough on money and buyers that the Lakers might be able to keep both Trevor Ariza and Lamar Odom. What next, Vic the Brick's beard refereeing next season's Lakers-Cavaliers Finals? In a normal world, the economy wouldn't have eroded to the point ..."

Chicago Bulls and Detroit Pistons courting Ben Gordon

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July 1

Chicago Tribune

"A busy Tuesday for Joe Dumars began with the Pistons' president of basketball operations firing coach Michael Curry and ended with him making overtures for guard Ben Gordon as NBA free agency began at 11:01 p.m. Chicago time. The Bulls planned to contact Raymond Brothers, Gordon's agent, who has turned down offers of $50 million over five years and $54 million over six years the previous two summers. Gordon, the Bulls' leading scorer for the last four seasons, never has backed off his publicly stated desire to remain in Chicago. He reiterated that desire to close associates on Tuesday. Similarly, general manager Gar Forman consistently has said the Bulls want to re-sign Gordon. However, ..."

Magic will let free agent market settle before offering Turkoglu a new contract

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July 1

Orlando Sentinel

"The Orlando Magic will make another long-shot run at re-signing small forward Hedo Turkoglu while patiently waiting to bargain-shop after the green flag drops on free agency. Teams can begin courting Turkoglu and other players on Wednesday and begin signing them to contracts on July 8. General Manager Otis Smith said Monday he would reach out to Turkoglu again, but Smith didn't anticipate making any free agent an offer at the first allowable contact — 12:01 a.m. on Wednesday morning. He expects to wait for a cost-conscious market to settle unless a deal comes together. "I'll sit still," Smith said. "I won't be in a big hurry. There's a lot of guys available and not a lot of money out ..."

Celtics tender offer to Glen Davis

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July 1

Boston Herald

"The Celtics took the first step in their attempt to retain the services of Glen Davis by tendering the forward a qualifying offer last night. But the chase is far from over. Based on his playoff performance - beyond Kendrick Perkins he was arguably the Celtics' best player during the conference semifinals against Orlando - Big Baby is anticipating a big paycheck. According to a league source, Davis, as a restricted free agent, will carry a mid-level exception (approximately $5.8 million) price tag into the marketplace. He also qualifies as a so-called "Early Bird" exception free agent (two years with the same team), meaning the Celtics can sign him for up to 175 percent of last season's ..."

After busy draft, Minnesota Timberwolves expect to cool it during free agency

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July 1

St. Paul Pioneer Press

"With the salary cap projected to stay about $58.7 million and teams saving their money for 2010, the NBA's free-agency period is expected to be a relatively low-key affair this summer, and the Timberwolves are no exception. They still have some holes to fill after last week's draft, but the Wolves aren't looking to be busy shoppers in free agency, which began at 11:01 p.m. CDT Tuesday. "I think it's secondary, just looking at the players that are out there and available," Wolves owner Glen Taylor said. "To me, we also have to look at trades to get the balance on our team that we need. We've got Ryan (Gomes) at the three position, but I don't think we have a backup there yet. You've either ..."

As NBA free agency starts, Rockets target center

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July 1

Houston Chronicle

"While their cornerstone center considered treatment options, the Rockets began the free-agent shopping season at the front door of a player they hope will fill in for him. Rockets general manager Daryl Morey began his recruiting efforts to sign Magic backup center Marcin Gortat at 11:01 p.m. Tuesday, the first minute teams could begin speaking to free agents. Though free agent guard Ron Artest has indicated that his decision will not be impacted by the uncertainty surrounding Yao Ming, and the team held out hope that Yao would return next season, the Rockets wasted no time starting the chase for a backup big man to fill the middle while Yao is out, and beyond. Players cannot sign ..."

Miami Heat won't be big shoppers when free agency opens Wednesday

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July 1

Palm Beach Post

"When free agency opens at 12:01 a.m. Wednesday, the Heat won't be in the running for high-profile players such as Jason Kidd, Allen Iverson, Ron Artest and Rasheed Wallace. Miami already has an estimated $70 million payroll for 2009-10, which exceeds the projected salary cap of $58 million, and is right at the projected luxury tax. So instead of going shopping, the Heat will hope to improve by getting more out of forward Dorell Wright and center Jermaine O'Neal, who were slowed by injury last season. Wright, 23, played only six games last season, his fifth with the Heat. Coach Erik Spoelstra said Tuesday that getting a good season from him would be "almost like getting a free agent player. ..."

George exercises player option to return to Mavs

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July 1

Dallas Morning News

"The Mavericks were informed Tuesday that swingman Devean George has exercised his player option for the 2009-10 season, his agent said.George, 6-8, has been injury plagued for most of his three seasons with the Mavericks but also has enjoyed stretches of solid play as a backup and starter. He signed a two-year deal before last season and is scheduled to make $1.6 million next season. Agent Mark Bartelstein confirmed George's intentions.While taking the option year keeps George on the roster, it's no guarantee he will be with the team in September when training camp opens. His contract ends after next season, which makes him an attractive trade chip that could be added into any deal to make ..."

Pacers' priorities start from within

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July 1

Indianapolis Star

"The NBA's free agency period starts today, but the Indiana Pacers' shopping list is short. They have about $8 million to spend, and their priorities are to re-sign restricted free agent Jarrett Jack and stay below the luxury tax, expected to kick in at about $68 million next season. Team president Larry Bird said the Pacers are in the second year of a three-year rebuilding plan and have no intention of deviating. "We're going to get down below that and we're going to build with a young core group," Bird said. "Then we won't have any complaints to go forward with." The Pacers made qualifying offers to Jack and forward Josh McRoberts on Tuesday, giving them the right to match any offer ..."

Diogu might stay; McCants out

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July 1

Sacramento Bee

"As the beginning of the free agency process approached Tuesday, Kings basketball president Geoff Petrie said the club would not extend qualifying offers to reserves Ike Diogu and Rashad McCants. Both players were scheduled to become unrestricted free agents and able to sign with any team after Tuesday's 9 p.m. deadline. While the Kings have no interest in re-signing McCants, they plan to approach Diogu about returning. The 6-foot-9 center-forward spent most of his time on the bench after being acquired at midseason. In his final five games, however, he averaged 20.0 points, 7.8 rebounds and 29.3 minutes, and provided a physical presence at both ends. "We need to add at least one more big ..."

Amare deal on life support

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July 1

Contra Costa Times

"What seemed like a near certainty on draft night - the Warriors acquiring power forward Amare Stoudemire - has fizzled into an unlikely trade. The Warriors declined to comment, per team policy, but recent reports indicated Stoudemire doesn't want to play for Golden State, which figures to end any possibility of the trade happening. A source told MediaNews that Stoudemire thinks the Warriors would be giving up too much (leaving him with little left to work with) and that he doesn't want to play center. Also, the Arizona Republic, quoting Stoudemire's agent Charles Grantham, reported Stoudemire's focus is on winning an NBA title, preferably in Phoenix. Considering the Warriors are a ways ..."

Kerr to meet with Hill face-to-face

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July 1

Arizona Republic

"There are plenty of ways to contact Grant Hill. He has a landline, a cellphone and video calling. But as he did June 18 with Steve Nash, Suns General Manager Steve Kerr is choosing to have a face-to-face talk at Hill's Orlando home on Wednesday. If words do not suffice, Hill will have the feel of a handshake and the look on Kerr's face to know he is the Suns' free-agency priority. "Grant is our biggest priority and that's why I'll be in Orlando," Kerr said. "He's an important part of our team and we'll make sure he knows that." With free-agency contact starting Tuesday night with some calls, the Suns plan to reach out to five or six free agents. They are targeting veteran big men, ..."

Pistons agree to deal with Bulls' Gordon

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July 1

Detroit Free Press

"The Pistons have a new shooting guard: Ben Gordon. Gordon, a free-agent from the Chicago Bulls, agreed in principle Wednesday to join the Pistons, the Free Press has learned. Teams cannot officially announce deals until July 8, but the deal is believed to be worth $55 million over five years."

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