Scotto’s Latest: Harrell, Cavaliers, Knicks, Trent Jr., Jones

July 27, 2021

Lakers center Montrezl Harrell remains undecided on his player option as a Saturday deadline looms, sources tell Michael Scotto of Hoops Hype. Harrell is described as “50-50” on the option, which would pay him $9.7MM for next season.

Picking up the option would make the 27-year-old a trade chip for the Lakers, who are hoping to add another star to their roster. There was a report over the weekend that L.A. has discussed moving Kyle Kuzma and the 22nd pick to the Kings in exchange for Buddy Hield, and multiple sources tell Scotto that Harrell has been included in several variations of that trade.

Sacramento may view Harrell as a replacement for Richaun Holmes, who is headed toward free agency, and Scotto identifies the Mavericks, Hornets and Raptors as teams that are likely to enter the bidding for Holmes. He adds that the Lakers offered Kumza and the 22nd choice to the Pacers for pick No. 13 and salary filler, but Indiana turned it down.

There’s more from Scotto:

  • The Cavaliers have been contacted about the No. 3 pick by the Raptors, Thunder, Warriors and Knicks, but Oklahoma City didn’t include Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who was reportedly part of an offer the Thunder made to the Pistons for the top overall selection. Cleveland would like to acquire another top 10 pick, Scotto adds.
  • Before the Pelicans agreed to trade the 10th pick to the Grizzlies, the Knicks made an unsuccessful offer involving the 19th and 21st selections, according to league sources. New York is believed to be focused on Oregon’s Chris Duarte.
  • Gary Trent Jr., who received a qualifying offer from the Raptors on Monday, could get an offer sheet in the neighborhood of $18MM to $20MM per season.
  • The Grizzlies are making back-up point guard Tyus Jones available in trade talks, according to league sources. Jones will make $8.38MM next season in the final year of his contract.