Earlier in the week, we passed along the latest trade rumors on the Clippers, something that was particularly intriguing to watch ahead of the trade deadline given the uncertain statuses of Kawhi Leonard and Paul George.
Coach Ty Lue provided more clarity on Leonard’s situation, telling the media that the former Finals MVP is “probably not” coming back this year.
“We know Kawhi’s probably not gonna come back, we don’t know the status of PG, but these guys continue to keep fighting,” Lue said while expanding on how much he’s impressed with the team’s performance without the two stars.
“Every single night. And so that’s kind of how I had to play, that’s how I had to make it, so just seeing how these guys scrap and compete every single night, just makes me feel good – that’s the enjoyment I get from coaching this team.”
More NBA Rumors, News & Notes
- Kyrie has beef with the Cavs? Kyrie Irving infamously requested a trade from the Cavaliers in 2017, as he felt that he wasn’t treated properly by the organization and felt like he was stuck in LeBron James‘ shadow. He was also unhappy with how his associates were not given the same treatment by LeBron’s entourage. “When LeBron returned to Cleveland, the Cavs hired his trainer, his security and his personal assistant,” Joe Vardon of The Athletic wrote. “Irving couldn’t get the same treatment for his associates, and it bothered him. But not just him.” The Cavs had to do everything to keep LeBron happy, but it’s totally understandable how Irving felt slighted with the Cavs seemingly giving him no say in decisions around the organization.
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The Timberwolves are busy: The Timberwolves may explore trading Patrick Beverley, and could target Marcus Smart to help fill the void in the starting lineup. However, both Darren Wolfson of 5 Eyewitness News and Jon Krawczynski of The Athletic don’t see Beverley being moved. The only two untouchable players on Minnesota’s roster right now are Karl-Anthony Towns and Anthony Edwards.
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Schroder Gone? Momentum is shifting in the direction of the Celtics trading Dennis Schroder ahead of the trade deadline. The Bulls could look to trade for him with both Lonzo Ball and Alex Caruso out for an extended period of time. A package of Troy Brown Jr. and a second-round pick may get the job done for Schroder.
- Jazz Interested in Multiple Wings: The Jazz are interested in adding Josh Richardson or Josh Okogie. They are also interested in Harrison Barnes and Robert Covington. Richardson and/or Okogie may be more realistic since the Jazz may not have the assets for Barnes or Covington.
- Raptors Interested in Williams: The Raptors are interested in Robert Williams as they look for a center. The Celtics will probably hold off on moving Williams, but Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown are the only known untouchables at this point in time.
- Blazers on the Move? Robert Covington is seen as the most likely TrailBlazer to be moved. Ben McLemore‘s name has also come up in discussions.
