Kent Bazemore’s name has been dripping into the trading block well for some time now. The 29-year-old Atlanta Hawks swingman has reportedly been involved in trade talks as the team is looking to rebuild the roster with Trae Young at the helm.
Rumors have swirled that the Hawks want to get rid of Bazemore’s salary in exchange for a young player or first-round draft pick. Bazemore is to be paid roughly $18 million next season and $19 million in 2019. With the minutes of younger small forwards like DeAndre’ Bembry and Taurean Prince projected to increase under new coach Lloyd Pierce, the Hawks are willing to let go of Bazemore.
Kelly Iko of Rockets Wire has an update on Bazemore’s situation, saying the wing is open to a move to the Houston Rockets or Milwaukee Bucks.
Source: Kent Bazemore’s list of suitors also includes Milwaukee, who recently contacted the Hawks but initial trade talks didn’t get very far. Kent loves Atlanta, but would be open to a move to HOU/MIL since he knows both coaches well and would be joining a contender.
— Kelly Iko (@KellyIkoNBA) August 7, 2018
With Bazemore turning 30 next year, an opportunity to play in the postseason will be a priority. The Rockets will once again be one of the best teams in the league, and he could slot in as a starter or key bench player after they just acquired Carmelo Anthony.
Source: Atlanta would be open to taking Ryan Anderson’s remaining $41 million back, but would need draft pick + one of Houston’s young guys. A package of Anderson, Melton and a 2019 first might be enough to get a deal done, but Houston is high on Melton and his upside.
— Kelly Iko (@KellyIkoNBA) August 7, 2018
The Bucks could also use a bit more firepower after losing Jabari Parker to free agency, and Bazemore could help them challenge for the Central Division crown.
Known as a solid defensive stopper, Bazemore logged respectable numbers last season to the tune of 12.9 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 3.5 assists in 27 minutes of play per game. His excellent 39.4 percentage beyond the arc makes him a stellar 3-and-D player.
The post Report: Hawks’ Kent Bazemore’s list of suitors include Bucks, Rockets appeared first on ClutchPoints.
