NBA Rumors Flying Before The Draft

by The Boss on June 23, 2010


With less than 24 hours until the NBA Draft, there are plenty of rumors floating around the league about teams moving up, down, and in the first round. There are also some pretty prominent names that may be trading places in the very near future. Check out our roundup below.

1. Zach Randolph is done in Memphis.
This is all but certain. Though Randolph had a stellar statistical year for the Griz, his offseason off the court troubles have Memphis ready to part ways. Randolph is an attractive trade due to his one year remaining on his deal, and the Timberwolves are the likely partners for Memphis. Minnesota would send Al Jefferson in return, and then would likely waive Randolph. Zach would certianly land a job somewhere in the league next season, with Boston and Cleveland both being potential spots in 1 year contracts.

2. Tracy McGrady wants to be a Laker?
T-Mac and Kobe, together? If it is up to McGrady, he will be wearing purple and gold next season. T-Mac knows he won’t get a multi year deal, however, his “short” list of potential landing spots include the Lakers(at the top), Spurs, Magic, and Cavs. Ironically, McGrady had first said he wanted to go somewhere he could start, but he would almost certianly be a sixth man at all of those destinations.

3. Who will the Nets take 3rd?
New Jersey knows that John Wall will be gone and Evan Turner likely at 2. Staring at the 3 spot will be DeMarcus Cousins of Kentucky and Derrick Favors of Georgia Tech. While both players have tremendous upside, New Jersey is reportedly undecided on which one. There is still talk of the Nets trying to package the 3rd pick with Devin Harris for Chris Paul, if he is available as well.

4. Will Lakers look to upgrade point guard?
Jordan Farmar’s days as a Laker appear to be over, and with Derek Fisher getting a year older and Shannon Brown likely to opt to become a free agent, L.A may look to the draft to get some help in the backcourt.

5. The LeBron effect.
While James wasn’t likely to sign with either the Wizards or Sixers, New Jersey was one of the five teams hoping to land his services. As it stands, the Cavs, Bulls, Knicks, Nets, and Heat are the most likely to see James wear their jersey next year. Those close to him will be closely watching what those teams do on draft night. If I was a betting man, and someone asked me to put in order where James will sign, I would say the following, from most likely to least:

1. Cavs – as long as they secure Chris Bosh or Chris Paul
2. Bulls – most talent already in place
3. Heat – James and Wade sells tickets, but could they co-exist?
4. Knicks – Plenty of money and they have MSG.
5. Nets – Only because of Jay-Z

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