The 2017 NBA Free Agency is now alive and kicking. Almost all teams are in a mad scramble to land big names. Some of the bigger names who elected free agency this season are no longer on the market. Chis Paul was traded to the Houston Rockets while his teammate Blake Griffin signed a new five-year deal with the Clippers. Some of the bigger names are still out there and the question is: who goes where.
Gordon Hayward signing with the Boston Celtics
Gordon Hayward, one of the biggest names in this year 2017 NBA Free Agency, has chosen the Boston Celtics as his new team.
He chose the maximum contract offered by the Celtics over those of the Jazz and the Heat. The small forward had spent his first six seasons with the Utah Jazz. His comfort and familiarity with Celtics coach Brad Stevens were said to be the deciding factor in his decision. Hayward thanked the people of Utah for their support while playing for the Jazz.
ESPN News reported that the deal is worth $128 million over four years. A player option is included for the 4th year in the deal. This could allow him to become a free agent again in his 10th year as a pro. The Boston Celtics plan to unload some players to make the salary cap requirement. He hopes to win a title for his new team this year.
Kyle Lowry Stays with Toronto Raptors
Another big-name that hit the 2017 NBA Free Agent market is Kyle Lowry. The Los Angeles Clippers were eying him in case Chris Paul decided to bolt the team. Unfortunately for the Clippers, Chris Paul was traded to the Rockets but Kyle Lowry re-signed with the Toronto Raptors. He recently signed a contract for three years, worth $90 Million.
The amount could reach $100 million after factoring bonuses and incentives.
Carmelo Anthony: To Waive No-Trade Clause in Contact?
Carmelo Anthony may be open to waiving his no-trade clause with the New York Knicks. He is open to a trade involving either the Houston Rockets or the Cleveland Cavaliers. Chris Paul was recently traded to the Rockets and they could form a new Big 3 with James Harden if traded there.
LeBron James of the Cavaliers is one of Anthony’s buddies in the NBA and a trade there gives him the chance to realize his dream of winning a championship ring in his career.
On another front, New York Knicks’ center Kristaps Porzingis is uncertain about his future with the team. He is being bothered by the squabble between management and Carmelo Anthony. He skipped the season end exit interview with Phil Jackson. Knicks management is listening to trade offers from other teams and there are thoughts that he might be traded.
The 2017 NBA Free Agency is barely two weeks old. There are still a lot of things that can happen and a lot of teams would like to invest for their franchise's future. Talks are happening as we speak and the wheeling and dealing is not yet done