The new NBA Season kicks off next week, but it does not stop trade rumors surrounding the league's best players. Latest reports from ESPN say defensive specialist Iman Shumpert may be shipped to Minnesota Timberwolves and Rudy Gay of Kings might join the Miami Heat.
To begin, let's start with trade rumors about Iman Shumpert of Cleveland Cavaliers. According to ESPN reporter Zach Lowe, several teams have reached out to the Cavaliers management about the availability of the 6′ 5″ guard, including the Minnesota Timberwolves.
With their new head coach Tom Thibodeau, the Wolves are expected to improve their defensive strategy to enter the next season's playoffs. The team ranked 23rd in the league last season. They surrendered an average of 106 points per game. In addition, opposing teams shot 47.1 percent from the field against them. Sports analysts say the Wolves definitely need a strong backcourt defender if they want to win more games in the upcoming NBA season.
As a whole, the Wolves are composed of young players. Andrew Wiggins, Karl-Anthony Towns, Zach LaVine and Kriss Dunn are expected to bring high-powered offense this season. However, the team has few solid role players. With the addition of Shumpert, he can help the Wolves in defensive department with his championship experience.
Meanwhile, let's talk about Rudy Gay's rumored trade to Heat guard Goran Dragic. Michael Scotto of Basketball Insiders reported that there have been trade talks between the Kings and Heat that would send Gay and Darren Collison to South Beach for Dragic.
We previously reported that Gay already confirmed he'll leave the Kings organization. The 30-year-old forward is expected to receive $13.3 million this season. If he exercised his player option next summer he would get $14.3 million.
According to experts, Gay's desire to leave his present team could pressure the Kings officials to trade him sooner rather than later. Trade is the best option for the organization rather losing the forward in the 2017 NBA free agency.
Earlier this year, Gay said he did not like the management of Kings after Coach Michael Malone and general manager Pete D' Alessandro left the organization.
If the Heat acquires Gay, he would be a good addition to the team's offensive lineup. In addition, he can help Chris Bosh under the basket to get some rebounds. The small forward averages 17.2 points, 5 boards and 1.4 steals last season.
