Free agent Lamar Stevens is reportedly drawing interest from several teams as clubs are looking to finalize their roster. HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto said in his latest rumor article that the Boston Celtics, Houston Rockets, Minnesota Timberwolves, and Miami Heat are among Stevens’ potential suitors.
NBA Rumors: 4 Teams Named As Suitors For Free Agent Lamar Stevens
Stevens entered the open market on July 17 after being released by the San Antonio Spurs. San Antonio acquired the versatile forward, along with Cedi Osman, as part of a three-team that sent Max Strus from Miami to Cleveland.
Stevens is a slasher who is an excellent finisher around the rim. But the 26-year-old is better known for his defense. He averaged 5.3 points and a career-high 3.3 rebounds last season. Stevens also set a personal best by shooting 31.6% from the 3-point line and starting 25 of his 63 appearances.
The Four Reportedly Interested Parties
Stevens was among several veterans who worked out with the Celtics last month. While the Celtics did not sign any of those players, they did ink Svi Mykhailiuk to a one-year deal. Mykhailuk received a partial guarantee of $200,000 on his $2.3 million contract.
Mykhailiuk’s addition gives Boston 15 players with standard contracts. However, the Celtics have just 12 players on fully guaranteed deals. The C’s are also reportedly considering bringing back Blake Griffin.
Boston could use a defensive ace after they traded Marcus Smart and Grant Williams.
Minnesota also has an open roster spot. Stevens would fit nicely on the Timberwolves second unit behind Anthony Edwards. However, they already have Troy Brown Jr.Houston has a full training camp roster. But the Rockets only have 14 players on standard contracts, with two owning non-fully guaranteed pacts — Aaron Holiday and Boban Marjanovic. The Rockets are now seeking to unload Kevin Porter Jr., charged with assault and strangulation on his girlfriend.
Miami also has 21 players who have agreed to attend training camp. The Heat have 13 players on standard contracts, with 12 fully guaranteed. But the Heat is in a holding pattern, waiting for the Damian Lillard trade to either come to fruition or fall through.
