The NBA's trade and free agency rumors are heating up, with several teams and players in the spotlight. Here's a breakdown of some key developments, including the Trail Blazers' pursuit of Jaylen Brown, the Rockets' interest in Marcus Smart, and the Hawks' search for frontcourt help.
Trail Blazers and Jaylen Brown
The Trail Blazers have been actively pursuing Jaylen Brown, according to Marc Stein and Jake Fischer of The Stein Line. This interest dates back to Damian Lillard's first stint with the team, and the Blazers are considered the club most frequently described by sources as 'actively' pursuing the Celtics star. While the Rockets were initially cited as a potential suitor, they haven't talked to Boston recently and don't appear to be seeking a trade for Brown.
Rockets' Interest in Marcus Smart
The Rockets are keeping an eye on another one of head coach Ime Udoka's former Celtics players, Marcus Smart. If Smart declines his $5.4MM player option with the Lakers to reach free agency, the Rockets would be among the teams in on him. This development adds another layer of intrigue to the Rockets' frontcourt, as they also continue to explore potential trade opportunities involving veteran wing Dorian Finney-Smith.
Hawks' Frontcourt Search
The Hawks remain in the market for frontcourt help and mulled the possibility of making a run at Isaiah Hartenstein before he reached an agreement with the Thunder. The team's search for depth in the frontcourt is an ongoing process, and the Hawks are keeping their options open.
Bucks Center Myles Turner
Bucks center Myles Turner has generated some trade interest, but Milwaukee isn't 'actively engaged' in trade negotiations to send him elsewhere, according to a league source. This suggests that the Bucks are content with their current roster and are not actively seeking to make a trade.
Thunder's Acquisition of Isaiah Joe
The Thunder acquired Isaiah Joe from the Pistons in exchange for two draft picks: Minnesota's 2030 second-round selection and Detroit's own 2031 second-rounder. This acquisition makes the Pistons less likely to pursue another sharpshooting guard like Norman Powell or Tyler Herro, though the possibility remains on the table.
Pelicans' Kevon Looney
With New Orleans declining its team option on Kevon Looney, the veteran big man could be an option for the Knicks, who will likely lose Mitchell Robinson in free agency. Knicks head coach Mike Brown, a former Warriors assistant, overlapped with Looney in Golden State from 2016-22, adding another layer of familiarity to the potential reunion.
