NBA Rumors: Latest Buzz Surrounding LeBron James, Paul George and More

Rumors surrounding the NBA’s biggest names have sparked widespread intrigue as front offices evaluate rosters going into the offseason.

As Cleveland Cavaliers star LeBron James prepares for an eighth consecutive trip to the Eastern Conference Finals, a bit of information leaked about his desired role for the future. What does it mean for an ideal team fit going forward?

Center Hassan Whiteside saw the court sparingly during the 2017-18 postseason. For the most part, he watched the Miami Heat lose the series to the Philadelphia 76ers in five games, averaging 15.3 minutes per contest. What’s the latest on the 7-footer in South Beach?

Forward Paul George has kept his offseason options open in the public eye, but has he already made his decision?

We’ll delve into rumors for all three storylines and what it means for each player.

LeBron James Prepared to Play Off-Ball Small Forward in Philadelphia?

James went into Zero-Dark 30-23 mode, so it’s all about chasing a title in his world. However, FS1’s Chris Broussard appeared on the Colin Cowherd Show and shared what he’s been told about the superstar player’s desired role for the future.

“I’ve been told by somebody that would know that LeBron wants to play off the ball. I’m talking about LeBron going to Philly and playing more of a true small forward. What I was told is that LeBron has [played on the ball] because he’s never really had a teammate who was a playmaker for other guys. Ben Simmons is that.”

For James, the role change seems logical going into his 16th season. He could still facilitate in an offense, but a pure passer would handle the bulk of the work as a primary ball-handler. At this stage in his career, preservation comes to mind. The four-time league MVP averaged the most minutes played per game in the last two seasons.

Broussard took a bold stance and attached a team to James’ new destination. The Boston Celtics eliminated a young Sixers team with much room to grow behind Simmons and Joel Embiid who had their first taste of playoff experience.

Philadelphia would have its leading trio with Markelle Fultz still in his developmental stage. Key role players Robert Covington and Dario Saric have multiple years left on their deals.

While we’re connecting the dots, consider the fact Simmons signed to Klutch sports agency. Rich Paul, James’ agent and close friend, founded the company:

It sounds like a cozy landing spot for James, who would join forces with an upgraded roster, but how would he mesh with their pieces as an off-ball forward? Does the front office see a good fit?

Perhaps James completes the process in Philadelphia.

Paul George Set to Move on from Oklahoma City?

Since coming up short in six games against the Utah Jazz, George hasn’t stuck his foot in the ground with a strong stance on offseason plans. He didn’t commit to the Thunder or rule out an extended future with the team after an early postseason exit, per Erik Horne of The Oklahoman:

“It’s too soon,” George said. “I’d love to remain a Thunder, but that’s what the summer is for. So, we’ll address that in the summer.”

However, ESPN’s Ryen Russillo shared an insider tip on his podcast that suggests otherwise:

“Today is the first time I’ve heard from anybody that I trust, that George is gone. I don’t know where. It’s a, ‘He’s gone’ deal.”

Oklahoma City came into the season with the hope of pushing the Golden State Warriors in the Western Conference. They split the season series but failed to advance past the first round. George can look at this in two ways. The Thunder have what it takes to beat the best or just enough to win low-stakes games without the makeup to make a significant playoff push.

Expect George to consider his on-court chemistry with Russell Westbrook as a significant factor in his decision.

Miami Heat Leaning Toward Trading Hassan Whiteside?

Nearly two years ago, Whiteside signed a four-year, $98 million extension with the Heat. Based on the contract, the front office saw him as a valuable centerpiece in the starting lineup and a building block for the franchise.

During the 2017-18 postseason, the 7-footer became an afterthought. Team president Pat Riley shared the reason why, per Associated Press reporter Tim Reynolds:

Whiteside dealt with a bone bruise in his left knee and didn’t like wearing a brace to protect the ailment. The differences likely contributed to the tension behind the scenes and lackluster play, giving credence to the term “Bracegate.”

According to Miami Herald reporter Barry Jackson, those inside the Heat organization already want to hit the eject button on Whiteside’s seat on the roster:

“There is strong support among numerous people inside the Heat to trade Hassan Whiteside, and the question this offseason becomes this: To what measures will Pat Riley go to dump the two years and $52 million left on his contract.“

The 28-year-old only played 25.3 minutes per game in 54 appearances after averaging 32.6 over 77 contests last year. Big men don’t hold the same value as they did a decade ago. Whiteside would also come with a $25.4 million cap hit, per Spotrac, which makes it difficult to move him.

Riley may have a better chance at mending fences within the organization than moving Whiteside during the offseason. If he does find a trade partner, the team can increase backup center Bam Adebayo’s workload in his second season.

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