Veteran free agents such as Carmelo Anthony, J.R. Smith, and Jamal Crawford remain without a team, while a big name such as Chris Paul could still be traded. Due to this, there should be no shortage of drama heading into the new season, and here are all the latest NBA news and rumors you need to know for October 5th
#1 DeMar DeRozan is discussing a new deal with the San Antonio Spurs
DeMar DeRozan joined the San Antonio Spurs last summer in the blockbuster trade for Kawhi Leonard, and the 30-year-old has established himself as a key player under Gregg Popovich.
DeRozan is heading into the final guaranteed season of his contract, and reports in recent months have suggested that the Spurs are reluctant to hand him a new deal.
Nevertheless, Shams Charania of The Athletic is reporting that the Spurs and DeRozan remain engaged in contract talks.
During his first season in San Antonio, DeRozan averaged 21.2 points and 6.2 assists per game. The four-time All-Star played a key role as the Spurs surpassed expectations to qualify for the postseason, although the team lost a seven-game series to the Denver Nuggets in the first round.
#2 Draymond Green says the Warriors will need time to adapt
The Golden State Warriors have reached five consecutive NBA Finals, although many analysts have written the team off following a summer of changes. Kevin Durant, Andre Iguodala, and Shaun Livingston all exited the team, while Klay Thompson is set to miss much of the campaign through injury.
Nevertheless, Draymond Green believes that the Warriors can still compete, but is well aware that the new roster will need time to mesh:
The 2019-20 season will be Green’s eighth in the NBA, and the 29-year-old will be hoping to return to the All-Star picture after missing out last year.
#3 Pascal Siakam seeking a maximum contract extension from the Toronto Raptors
Pascal Siakam was the breakout player from the 2019-19 season, and the 25-year-old has just one year remaining on his existing deal with the Toronto Raptors. Nevertheless, while Siakam is keen to remain in Toronto, The Athletic is reporting that the 2019 Most Improved Player is seeking a maximum extension:
Siakam was selected by Toronto with the 27th pick in the 2016 NBA Draft and is eligible to sign a five-year contract worth around $170 million. After establishing himself as a key player during the regular season, Siakam’s form during the postseason was excellent as he averaged 19.0 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 2.8 assists over 24 playoff appearances.
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