On the eve of free agency, teams around the NBA are all preparing to improve their rosters with key signings. With the free agency period officially starting at 12 am midnight, deals will start to take fold from the minute July 1st begins. The Cleveland Cavaliers are no exception to this as they intend to offer a max contract to their All Star point guard, Kyrie Irving.
According to ESPN’s Chris Broussard, the Cavs plan to offer a max extension worth up to $90 million over 5 years for Irving. While there have been doubts surrounding Irving’s potential over this past season, Cleveland seems to be expecting him to serve as their franchise player for years to come. By securing Irving to an extension, Cleveland will be able to continue addressing their team needs as they hope to have a playoff contender next season.
Other News From Around The League:
- The Orlando Magic parted ways with longtime player Jameer Nelson by waiving him. The announcement came earlier today as the Magic thanked Nelson for his years of service as a member of their organization. In the middle of a rebuilding phase, the move signifies a change in direction for the franchise. Nelson was drafted by the Magic in 2004 and has played there his entire career. In Nelson’s 10 years with the organization he was apart of that Eastern Conference Championship team that would eventually lose in the Finals to the Lakers. In a statement released by Nelson earlier today he thanked the Magic organization while expressing his desire to continue his NBA career elsewhere. “All good things must come to an end, however, and it’s time to move on. I look forward to continuing my career as an NBA player, and will never take for granted my time in Orlando.’’ As a veteran point guard that can still contribute, it wouldn’t be surprise if contending teams reached out to Nelson in free agency. Nelson ranks first on Orlando’s all time assists records, and second in games played.
- The Indiana Pacers will not be extending a qualifying offer to Evan Turner, making him an unrestricted free agent. Jeff Zillgitt of USA Today reported the news earlier today. Turner was traded from the Philadelphia 76ers to the Pacers in the middle of last season. As a former number two overall pick in the NBA draft, Turner’s time in Philadelphia was considered to be underwhelming by many. His brief stint in Indiana wasn’t enough to sway the organization in his favor, thus allowing Turner to explore other teams to continue his professional career. Without a qualifying offer on the table, Turner is an unrestricted free agent able to sign where ever he pleases.
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