NBA Rumors

On the eve of draft night, there is the usual flurry of rumors; here’s a brief rundown of what is being heard:

• Lakers and 76ers are talking about swapping Lamar Odom and Andre Igoudala, with Lakers forward Luke Walton finding his place somewhere in that trade scenario. It sounds 50-50 at this point, but don’t be surprised if they suddenly reach an agreement. This trade would make sense for both sides. Philadelphia will save a significant amount of cash and the Lakers fill a need of their own. Igoudala is a premier defender with the ability to get to the rim.
• Spurs and Blazers have been in discussions that would send Tony Parker and the #29 pick to Portland in exchange for Andre Miller, Nicolas Batum, and the #21 pick. Trade talks died down after the Spurs insisted on trying to package Richard Jefferson in that deal. His hefty contract is unwanted. Talks could resume again tomorrow between these teams, but I wouldn’t count out Parker being dealt elsewhere.
• T-Wolves are saying they will select Enes Kanter instead of Derrick Williams, but as most know, they are also shopping that #2 pick. Their trade-down will happen and Derrick Williams will be the #2 pick.
• Rockets are in the middle of trading up to the #8 pick by trading the 14th and 23rd pick to the Detroit Pistons.  At this point, Detroit is considered to be seriously entertaining the offer, but I wouldn’t bank on it if I were a Rockets fan.
• Bismack Biyombo shouldn’t get past Charlotte at #9 unless the Bobcats trade that pick. He wowed Charlotte in his most recent workout and is offering just the type of rebounding and shot-blocking center that the Bobcats want and need.
• Kemba Walker could be taken at #11 by Golden State or #13 by Phoenix from what I’m hearing.

That’s it for now. More rumors are sure to follow, but I’ll be back with another summary before the draft begins. Remember, NBA Draft tomorrow on ESPN at 7:30 ET/4:30 PT. With the looming lockout, it will be interesting to see.

—–TWOnSports