The Heat have repeatedly been cited as a potential suitor for Suns forward Jae Crowder, and Ian Begley of SNY.tv confirms that Miami has touched base with Phoenix about a possible deal. Begley hears from sources that some people in the Suns’ organization view Max Strus as a player who would have to be part of any Heat package for Crowder.
Like Crowder, Strus is on an expiring contract and will be an unrestricted free agent next summer. However, as Begley notes, the Heat would likely to be averse to moving the young swingman, who is on a minimum-salary contract and has established himself as an important piece of Miami’s rotation, averaging a career-high 14.2 PPG on .447/.359/.786 shooting in his first 12 games (32.2 MPG) this season.
Here’s more from Begley:
- Gabe Plotkin and Daniel Sundheim, who own a minority stake in the Hornets, are open to selling a “sizable portion” of their share, Begley reports in the same story. Michael Jordan‘s stake in the Hornets would not be affected if the team’s minority shareholders were to sell most or all of their portion of the franchise.
- The Knicks have received some early-season inquiries about potential trades involving guard Immanuel Quickley, sources tell Begley. While New York would probably be reluctant to move Quickley, rival teams look at a crowded Knicks rotation and believe the club will consider trading at least one young player before this season’s deadline, Begley explains.
- Knicks wing Quentin Grimes, who has played just 32 total minutes in four games this season, continues to be viewed by head coach Tom Thibodeau as a “situational” player for the time being, according to Begley (Twitter links). “He’s missed a lot of time,” Thibodeau said. “So the conditioning part of that is part of that equation. As he gets opportunities, he’ll play more and more.”
Grimes looked so good in SL. Not just his game. But he came in much leaner and quicker. Thibs is right. Game shape is a whole other thing. So get in shape player, we can wait.
I always believed if Grimes got his handle tighter. He can take a major step up. Cause the guy plays D. Big upside for a 2way player. And that handle will help his scoring. Cause he’s got the touch. Just needs to be able to get his shot. If he wants to start.
Randle has looked good so far. But he is still a ball stopper at times. It’s why I rather see Obi1 starting. Unfortunately Thibs seems still infatuated with him. Obi in the offense with Jalen running it. Works better for this team. I’m all about us getting better. Randle has to go.
Quickley, Randle, Fournier, even Mitch , plus our picks. Should all be in play.
Knicks should be monitoring the TWolves situation. Imo that will never work. Rudy in the Garden will definitely get folks excited.