More Newsworthy NBA Rumors Circling Around. Over the last couple of days, fans have been told some more news from around the league. Some of which aren’t too important. However, there are some more pieces that could hold some major weight. Here are some more newsworthy NBA rumors.
Indiana Could be Interested in Buddy Hield and Myles Turner Trade to Lakers?
A report came out earlier about the Pacers and their probable plans. It was reported that Indiana “might” entertain an offer of those two players in exchange for two first-round picks. It is unknown whether the Lakers would be interested in this package. They would be foolish not to accept an offer of this level. If they were to make this trade, they would have a new starting center in Turner and a very capable scorer in Hield. Still, it’s purely speculation at this point so this report should be taken with a grain of salt. It’s still a realistic trade that could possibly happen since the Lakers are desperate to find some answers.
Paul Reed Playing the Four and Five in Practice?
Reed is coming off another mediocre season as a second-year second-rounder. However, it has been reported that Reed has been insanely active in this year’s training camp. He supposedly gained an extra eight inches to his vertical, giving him a max vert of 36 inches. It has also been reported that he was playing power forward along with center in practice. Not to mention he was playing next to Joel Embiid at times. His defensive play is definitely going to give his coaches something to think about because of how active he is there. If he can up his playing time this year, he may be looking at a fantastic statistical season from the defensive end.
Scottie Barnes Learning to Shoot Like Steph?
Barnes has been playing point guard at times during training camp. Another thing to note is that he has been practicing his shooting a lot. Over the course of his rookie season, he shot 49% from the field, but just 30% from three and 74% from the line. If he can up those numbers and provide consistent three-point scoring, an All-Star appearance will be in the near future. The 21-year-old has nowhere to go but up at this point. Expect Barnes to have an astronomical sophomore campaign as the team’s prized fourth overall pick from last year’s draft.
Obi Toppin Vying for More Minutes?
Coach Thibs isn’t known for playing his second unit as much as his starters, so Toppin will have his work cut out for him. Over the course of the offseason, Toppin has been working on his shooting and defensive abilities. If Toppin can convince Thibs to play him more, his value could increase dramatically. Still, he has to face Julius Randle for minutes at the three. As much as it stinks to not see him and Randle together, Thibs has already said that he will possibly test at this pre-season to see if they can work together. If that happens, expect Toppin to gain much more playing time than he has in the past.