Andrew Wiggins Excused from Canadian National Team, Warriors Playing Hardball in Trade Talks
ICARO Media Group
In the latest NBA trade rumor, it has been confirmed that Andrew Wiggins will not be a part of the Canadian national team this summer. According to reports from Doug Smith of The Toronto and Michael Grange of Sportsnet.ca, the Golden State Warriors are "playing hardball" with Wiggins, who they are actively looking to move in potential trade negotiations.
Despite being insured and medically cleared by Canada Basketball, the Warriors seem unwilling to risk Wiggins' health during trade talks, especially considering his ankle issue last season. While the decision may not sit well with Wiggins, Anthony Slater of The Athletic refers to it as a mutual one.
Reports suggest that Wiggins is one of several veterans on the Warriors' roster that could be headed out if a major deal materializes. Alongside Wiggins, players like Kevon Looney and Gary Payton II could also be potential outgoing pieces for Golden State. Additionally, the future of star point guard Chris Paul remains uncertain, as the Warriors have until Friday to decide on his non-guaranteed $30 million salary.
Shifting gears to other trade rumors around the league, the Houston Rockets are reportedly looking to pursue younger trade targets whose timeline aligns better with their core. According to Sam Amick and Anthony Slater of The Athletic, the Rockets have their eyes on players like Devin Booker of the Phoenix Suns, Donovan Mitchell of the Cleveland Cavaliers, and Zion Williamson of the New Orleans Pelicans. However, there is currently no indication that any of these players will be available for trade this summer.
In terms of potential trade partners for the New Orleans Pelicans and forward Brandon Ingram, Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports mentions the Sacramento Kings, Philadelphia 76ers, Atlanta Hawks, and Cavaliers as possibilities. However, discussions between the Pelicans and Hawks have not progressed since their talks about Dejounte Murray in February. The Cleveland Cavaliers are reportedly reluctant to part ways with any of their core players, including potential Pelicans target Jarrett Allen. Additionally, it remains unclear how interested the Philadelphia 76ers are in acquiring Ingram.
Lastly, the Utah Jazz's goal this offseason is to extend the veteran forward, Lauri Markkanen, while also acquiring another star player to complement him. Adrian Wojnarowski echoed this sentiment during ESPN's draft broadcast. The Jazz previously expressed interest in Dejounte Murray in talks with the Atlanta Hawks in February, and they were also intrigued by Mikal Bridges before he was traded to the New York Knicks by the Brooklyn Nets.
As the NBA offseason heats up, trade rumors continue to swirl around the league. Fans and analysts eagerly await the resolution of these speculations, as player movements could significantly reshape the landscape of the upcoming season.