Veteran forward Marcus Morris remains unsigned over a month into free agency, but it sounds like he has no shortage of options. Sources tell Keith Pompey of The Philadelphia Inquirer that the Sixers, Cavaliers, Hornets, Pistons, Heat, Pelicans, and Timberwolves have all shown some level of interest in Morris.
According to Pompey, Philadelphia and Cleveland appear to be the most likely landing spots for Morris. The Sixers are the 34-year-old’s hometown team and could use a power forward, but they’re limited to offering a minimum-salary contract. Morris finished last season with the Cavaliers, who are willing to offer him nearly double the minimum salary, sources tell Pompey.
Morris said that he “really enjoyed” his time in Cleveland and referred to the organization as “top-notch,” but also admitted he likes the idea of returning to his hometown team in Philadelphia.
“It felt like it was something that just helped my career,” Morris said of playing for the Sixers earlier in the 2023/24 season. “You know sometimes you’ve been doing it for so long that you find different things that get you up for playing. Being home is one of those things for me. … I just felt so free. I just felt so much love. So it’s like, yeah, man, I would definitely entertain coming back. I just hope … we can get something going hopefully.”
As Pompey explains, the 76ers currently have 13 players on standard contracts and will likely keep a 15-man roster spot open to start the regular season, so they’ll likely add just one more player. It’s unclear if Morris is their top target. Sources tell The Inquirer that Philadelphia also has some interest in sharpshooting power forward Davis Bertans.
As for the Cavs, this is just my speculation, but they may want resolution on Isaac Okoro‘s restricted free agency before they move forward with other free agents. Whether they re-sign Okoro or sign-and-trade him, resolving his situation would give them a better idea of where their team salary stands relative to the luxury tax line and tax aprons.
As Morris weighs his options and waits for offers, he tells Pompey that he’s willing to be patient as he prioritizes finding the right fit.
“I know the game. I’ve been around 14 years. I’m still playing,” the veteran forward said. “I just want to come in and help a team, be a voice, be a vet, but still compete at a high level. I also want to be somewhere I already know what the team needs. I want to be a piece that’s versatile and playing, either starting or coming off (the bench), and helping younger guys and things like that.
“… I’m just taking my time, because everybody needs a vet that can still play and (be a part of a) good situation in the locker room. I’m just taking my time to see what comes to be, what’s good for both sides.”
Morris is a good veteran addition. Hoping the Cavs get him, though Isaiah Mobley deserves reps.
I believe the Cavs didn’t extend a qualifying offer to Isaiah making him a UFA.
I hope the Cavs do not get him myself.
He would get more minutes in Philly. That is what his career needs
The Morris twins have spoken often about wanting to play together again. Although Markieff has a handshake deal to return to the Mavs, the wiser course of action would be for Marcus to accept the minimum from the Cavs, which opens up Markieff to take the other half. Problem solved.
Yeah, I’m sure Cleveland is dying to have both Morris brothers.
That would require them to play with a full roster of 15. Markieff would back Allen at center.
“…and I will shot the damn ball every time it touches my hands regardless of the situation.” Left that part of quote out.
One shot per minute
He was electric in game 5 and kept Cleveland in the game after disastrous outings from everyone else. Mobley got it going waaaaaaay too late. Can’t believe I’m saying this, but hope he returns to Cleveland. Particularly with our lack of acquisitions.
I felt like he really calmed the bench down last year, theyve lacked that steady veteran hand since Ricky left and hes been the closest thing since. Would be a disappointing off-season for the Cavs if he walks
That’s a good point. Plus he provides some toughness lost with Lamar. I think he deserves another shot.
He would look pretty good on the Cavaliers with a few plays designed for him. On the 2nd unit of course. Question is if he was bothered by his friend JB Bickerstaff being fired?