The Raptors have interest in Anthony Bennett should he clear waivers, Darren Wolfson of 1500 ESPN Twin Cities hears (Twitter link). Earlier today, it was reported that Bennett and the Wolves are making progress on a contract buyout.
Here’s more from the Atlantic Division:
- The expectation is that Bennett will land with an NBA team, but Michael Grange of Rogers Sportsnet (Twitter link) believes it’s unlikely that Toronto signs him due to the team’s full front court rotation.
- Eric Koreen in a full length piece for the National Post opines that Toronto probably won’t land the power forward. Koreen believes that the Raptors could give Bennett an opportunity to earn minutes at the four and they would be smart to kick tires on the 22-year-old. However, the scribe isn’t optimistic about Toronto’s chances because he believes that Philadelphia will claim him off waivers.
- Coach Lionel Hollins has been impressed with Brook Lopez‘s attitude and effort this summer, Mike Mazzeo of ESPN.com relays via Twitter. Lopez re-signed with the Nets for $60MM over three years this offseason.
Bennett seems like a perfect player for the Sixers to gamble on. I don’t think he will clear waivers either.
If the Wolves are negotiating a buyout, doesn’t that mean they expect him to clear waivers? He’s due 5.8M and his option for next year 7.3M has to be picked up next month, I think? Sixers will lose the cap space they’ve been hording for salary dump trades. Portland has like $19M in cap space and is gambling on disappointments Ed Davis and Noah Vonleh. I think he clear waivers the Raptors can have him if they want him. If not, then Hinkie will offer him a four year deal, two guaranteed and two non guaranteed, like all his other developmental projects.
Agreed, smittybanton. I do think he would clear waivers if he’s released, and that it would be a lot for either the Sixers or the Blazers to spend. However, if he does hit waivers and is claimed, the Timberwolves would be off the hook for his entire salary, no matter the terms of the buyout. And his new team would be responsible for that entire salary.