NBA Rumors 2016-17 Season: Mirotic Could Go to Thunder, Ezeli Out for Season
The following are the latest trade rumors for the 2016-17 NBA Season.
1. Nikola Mirotic to the Oklahoma City Thunder
According to the latest trade rumors, Nikola Mirotic might be traded by the Chicago Bulls as a result of a growing dissonance between him and the organization.
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Mirotic is having a hard time with the Bulls. On a per game basis, he is currently averaging 8.7 points, 5.7 rebounds and 1.0 assist. Aside from his production, he has been involved in several acts questioning his professionalism.
For one, Mirotic missed the team walk-through which resulted in a fine. Mirotic said sorry to the Bulls, saying "No, I'm not that kind of guy. Even if things are not how I'd like them to be, I'm a professional. It's not my first year here. Those guys respect me, I respect them, I wouldn't do anything like that. I just forgot."
The Chicago Bulls currently have a standing of 13 wins and 13 losses, putting them at 8th place in the Eastern Conference. Most notably, the team has a three game losing streak, which prompted head coach Fred Hoiberg to keep Mirotic on the bench.
Putting Nikola Mirotic on the trading block may be one move that the Bulls can do to improve their roster. While there are no legitimate reports from the organization, there seem to be teams that are a better fit for Mirotic.
One team that the Bulls can negotiate with is the Oklahoma City Thunder. In particular, the Bulls will get Enes Kanter while the Sixers get Mirotic. This exchange of big men may work for both teams, as Kanter is more of a strong post player which is common in the East, while Mirotic will work well with Westbrook in a drive and kick situation.
2. Festus Ezeli Out for Season
According to Fox Sports, Festus Ezeli may be out for the entire 2016-17 NBA season as he will undergo knee surgery.
Ezeli hasn't played a single game for the Portland Trail Blazers due to health issues with his left knee. He was sent to the Blazers from the Golden State Warriors. Last year, he averaged 7.0 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game.
An article from The Vertical mentioned that Ezeli will definitely have knee surgery, but the date is not yet final. If this is the case, then the Trail Blazers must submit an application for a Disabled Player Exception, which is worth $3.7 million. But to do this, Portland must have a roster spot vacated.
Ezeli has been injury ridden since the past two years. Last season and the season before that, he only played 46 games with the Golden State Warriors.
