Clippers, Knicks discuss potential trade Nirlence Noel

The clippers And the nicks Participate in ‘exploratory’ discussions about potential trade involving a hub Nerlence Noelleague sources Michael Scotto from HoopsHype.

Knicks tries to clear the cover room needed for a serious tour of the free agent guard post Galen Bronson And you have a surplus of future draft picks to present a team ready to take on Noel’s contract, which he will pay $9.24 million in 2022/23. Noel’s transfer will increase the expected cover room to approximately $25 million.

Meanwhile, the Clippers own a Trade exception Big enough to take over Noel’s contract without sending any salary and may be seen as a solid position rotation option, especially if the free agent is a big guy Isaiah Hartenstein Do not stay in Los Angeles.

Clippers already project to be a taxpayer and will significantly increase their luxury tax bill by adding another $9 million contract to their books, but Steve Ballmer He’s one of the sport’s richest owners, so that might not be an urgent concern. The opportunity to help the Eastern Conference club fire a major free agent from a Western competitor may also provide some additional incentive as the Clippers consider a potential deal.

Here’s more from Scotto about the free agency and commercial marketplace:

• Four NBA executives who spoke to Scotto thinks so Trail Blazers Protect Forever Simmons He could sign a contract in the $80 million range for four years, possibly with incentives that could increase his value.
• Based on conversations with six league executives, Scotto wrote that the Warriors Center kevon looney You could make over $9 million a year as a freelancer this summer, while on guard Gary Payton II You can earn 6-7 million dollars annually. It is said that my color It is considered likely to To re-sign with Golden State.
• On the night of the clouds, it was pistons landing center Galen Doreen With pick number 13 after agreeing to a deal that includes New York and Charlotte. If they can’t come to an agreement on the 13th pick and Doreen slips to 14th, the Pistons have discussed offering multiple picks, including their first future manager, to CavaliersScotto says. It’s unclear if Cleveland would have any interest in such an offer.