NBA Trade Rumors for 2016-17 Season: Paul George to Celtics, Gordon Hayward to be Traded, Ray Allen to Make a Comeback
The latest NBA rumors come in various shapes and sizes. Some talk about teams convincing super starts to join their roster. Some discuss the future of NBA players that are nearing free agency. Others talk about retired players trying to make a comeback. As the regular season draws near, expect to hear more rumors and speculations; here are some of the latest.
1. Paul George to Boston Celtics
The Boston Celtics are said to be interested in acquiring Indiana Pacers superstar Paul George. In their bid to win an NBA championship, getting a superstar to play for their team may be the only thing missing to be a solid contender.
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Boston made a few successful off-season moves to improve their talented roster. For one, they acquired Al Horford, an offensive talent in the front court. But according to Danny Ainge, general manager of the Boston Celtics, the team needs one more superstar. They tried to get Kevin Durant but he decided to play for the Golden State Warriors instead.
To get Paul George, the Celtics are willing to trade Jae Crowder, Isaiah Thomas, or 1st round picks for 2017 and 2018. The Indiana Pacers may be willing to give away Paul George if the team doesn't make any positive strides this season.
2. Gordon Hayward to be Traded
According to Inquisitr, the Utah Jazz will seriously consider trading Gordon Hayward in this 2016-17 NBA regular season. That's because Hayward is expected to test the free agency in the 2017 off-season.
Trading Hayward before he decides to leave may help alleviate the incoming financial burdens that the Jazz franchise is facing. If the Jazz opts to keep Hayward, giving him a max contract may quickly put the low market team into luxury tax.
Some teams that could use Gordon Hayward's talents include the Los Angeles Lakers, Chicago Bulls and Boston Celtics.
In particular, the Celtics could offer Jae Crowder or Jaylen Brown; two young and talented players that would give the Jazz more opportunities for their future. The Los Angeles Lakers could use Hayward's skills and experience to accelerate the team's rebuilding phase.
3. Ray Allen Makes an NBA Comeback
Ray Allen is a constant subject in the NBA rumor mill, saying that he will make a comeback after two years of absence in the league. The 41-year old even had invitations from teams who could use his shooting prowess.
In particular, the Miami Heat, which had a dismal year shooting beyond the arc, was reported to have been actively pursuing Ray Allen to come out of retirement. Allen, however, declined the offer.
A tweet by Gary Washburn, Boston Globe writer, says, "Doc Rivers on Ray Allen: " won't talk about what we talked about but I think if Ray was in the right spot, he may play #Celtics #Clippers.'" The tweet fueled Ray Allen comeback rumors.
If Allen decides to play again, he will probably come off the bench, shooting threes for 10 minutes per game, and giving veteran advice to young players.
Ray Allen averaged 9.6 points, 2.8 rebounds and 2.0 assist per game during the 2013-14 season. His career averages are 18.9 points, 4.1 rebounds and 3.4 assists per game on 40 percent shooting from three.
