We're now two weeks into NBA free agency and most of the big names have agreed to deals with teams, but there are still a few quality players available. There are also a few interesting trade rumors coming out of Summer League, specifically centered around the future of Russell Westbrook in Oklahoma City. Here are the latest NBA rumors and news from you need to know.
Westbrook latest
The Oklahoma City Thunder point guard has been quiet about his future with the team after the departure of Kevin Durant, even amidst various reports of him being traded or leaving in free agency next offseason. The only thing Westbrook has said about his future to this point has come from his youth camp, according to The Oklahoman's Erik Horne:
Multiple witness accounts from Westbrook's OKC camp had the Thunder star being asked by campers if he'll be back at the camp in 2017, to which Westbrook said yes. Other than that subject-to-change answer to his young fans, it's been quiet in regard to his future.
The social media posts and word-of-mouth stories contrast the directness of recent NBA stars following the loss of a key teammate in free agency.
That answer indicates he will be in Oklahoma City next summer, but it doesn't mean he will necessarily be with the Thunder. Numerous teams have reportedly called the Thunder about a potential trade already, yet OKC isn't expected to make any deal until the season begins.
Celtics trade not imminent?
The Sporting News reported yesterday that the Celtics were close to making a huge three-team trade to acquire Blake Griffin, but that may not be happening. According to Steve Bulpett of the Boston Herald, Boston hasn't been involved in any talks about acquiring Griffin or Westbrook in "quite some time":
There should be no question by now the Celts still believe they need to make changes to their roster before the season begins, and it has been confirmed they are trying to accomplish this via multiple avenues — to no avail thus far.
Sources indicate the Celtics are very much open to major moves, but while situations certainly remain fluid and they have expressed interest in Blake Griffin and Russell Westbrook in the past, there have been no discussions regarding those players in quite some time.
Boston will continue to monitor the availability of both players throughout the season, hoping to land a game-changing superstar that can make them a legitimate title contender.
Wizards "very active"
The Washington Wizards are reportedly not done filling their roster, and are looking to free agency to fill those spots rather than trade. According to CSN Mid-Atlantic's J. Michael, Washington has been "very active" on the market:
I said this yesterday but didnt put it in writing: Wizards are still "very active" in the market, league sources tell @CSNMA #WizardsTalk
— J. Michael (@JMichaelCSN) July 14, 2016
It's unclear who the Wizards are targeting at this point, but they are expected to make a move sooner rather than later.
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