There's been plenty of NBA speculation in the wake of free agency. In the NFL world, Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert spoke about what the team must do to make it successful this season. There's also information on the likely fate of Deshaun Watson's career within the NFL.
NBA Roundup:
The Portland Trail Blazers are expected to give star guard Damian Lillard a two-year, $100 million extension of his contract in the off-season. Lillard has stated repeatedly that he would stay in Portland and will try to achieve a title with the Blazers since he's among the few NBA players who remain committed to a particular team. The Blazers made a trade for forward Jerami Grant in the hope to propel them into a playoff.
The Toronto Raptors expect guard Fred VanVleet to sign a four-year, almost $100 million extension to his contract. VanVleet will be a key player in any offensive plan the Raptors plan to run. The last time he played, he averaged 20.3 points. He also had 6.7 assists, 4.4 rebounds, along with 1.7 steals on a per-game basis.
Early indications indicate guard Tyler Herro and the Miami Heat are likely to reach an agreement on a deal that would enable him to earn more than 25 million dollars per year. Herro is just 22 and has plenty of potential to develop and develop his game. Victor Oladipo is expected to try free agency, which could open an opportunity to play a larger job for Herro with more responsibility.
Other NBA teams have noted Washington Wizards forward Kyle Kuzma as “available for trade.” Kuzma was a solid player in the past, scoring 17.1 points. He also had 8.5 rebounds, as well as 3.5 assists. A lot of teams could benefit from Kuzma's offensive talents, however Kuzma has proven to be an issue on the defensive side.
New York Knicks center Mitchell Robinson is expected to renew with the team in an eight-year, $58 million contract. Robinson hasn't played at the level he should have and he only was averaging 8.5 points and 8.6 rebounds, as well as 1.8 blocks last season. The Knicks hope Robinson will be a dominating player in the paint in the years to come.
Free-agent guard Malik Monk previously said he would like to join the Lakers on a reduced salary. However, it appears that he's looking for better deals. Monk played a major part in last season's game alongside LeBron James, Russell Westbrook, and Anthony Davis. Monk was averaging 13.8 scores on 47.3 percent of shooting, 3.4 rebounding, as well as 2.9 assists during the season.
Washington Wizards star guard Bradley Beal rejected his player option of $36 million. Beal will be entering into free agency and there are several playoff teams keen on Beal. In the last campaign, Beal averaged 23.2 points, 6.6 assists, and 4.7 rebounds per game.
Milwaukee Bucks forward Bobby Portis is “destined” to sign a four-year contract worth about $40 million, in order to stay in Milwaukee. Portis was averaging 14.1 points, on 47.9 percent shooting and 9.1 rebounds. Portis is likely to be the starting center or the backup power forward to the star forward Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Philadelphia Sixers Star guard James Harden declined his $47.4 million player option. James Harden will be entering into free agency. However it is expected that he will sign a new contract with the Sixers.
Brooklyn Nets guard Patty Mills has opted out of the player option worth $6 million and will be entering free agency.
Dallas Mavericks guard Jalen Brunson is being sought by the New York Knicks, Miami Heat, and Dallas Mavericks. If the Mavs decide to renew their contract with Brunson and they are interested, they'll require him to sign the possibility of a five-year $125 million contract. Brunson will likely speak with all three teams, however, the Knicks have made themselves the leading contender.
Los Angeles Lakers star guard Russell Westbrook picked up his option of $47 million and is now eligible for a four-year two-year extension worth $221 million. Westbrook is with the team until the 2022-2023 season.
“Rival executives” think that the Lakers might be interested in Chicago Bulls guard Coby White when the free agency period opens on April 1. White is expected to be a backup for Westbrook in the event that the Lakers decide to sign White.
The Miami Heat have emerged as the favorites to take on Jae Crowder, if he decides to leave with the Phoenix Suns. After losing P.J. Tucker for the Sixers, The Heat are looking for a replacement for Tucker in the form of Crowder.
The biggest trade of the day was the San Antonio Spurs trading Dejounte Murray to the Atlanta Hawks for Danilo Gallinari and three first-round draft picks. For more details on the trade and the analysis check out RedState's report earlier: NBA Analysis: San Antonio Spurs trade Dejounte Murray to Atlanta Hawks
NFL Roundup:
A star quarterback, Justin Herbert, discussed how the Los Angeles Chargers will have an enjoyable season. He said on SiriusXM NFL Radio:
“It's all about consistency. We must put together an entire season to be able to play the game we'd like to.”
The Chargers have added plenty of defensive power including edge rusher Khalil Mack and cornerback J.C. Jackosn, and veteran Kyle Van Noy. In addition to the defensive reinforcements, Los Angeles drafted offensive lineman Zion Johnson for Herbert to be protected in the season ahead.
There is a chance that the NFL will more often agree with the decision of the judge, in the event that Deshaun Watson's suspension is lifted. In the past, reports indicated that the NFL has been found to be “more likely” to accept the suspension of six to eight games and will not contest the decision. The hearing will continue on Thursday.
