Offseason Thread

[Bob Saccamano]

Originally Posted by jlb1705

I'm all about any trade that would bring Barbosa to the Cavs. That guy would be a starter on all but 4 or 5 teams in The Association, and he just happens to be on one of them at the moment.

I'd love to bring him in, but I don't think we have enough of what the Suns want. They have interest in Gooden, but you won't see a straight up trade for multiple reasons. I think the chances of us getting him are slim, but I'm still hoping for it to happen!

Anyway, todays news:

http://realgm.com/

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Al Harrington Traded To The Pacers</TD></TR><TR><TD>20th July, 2006 - 11:39 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>WTHR.com - According to WHTR 13 in Indianapolis, a deal has been completed that will send Al Harrington to the Indiana Pacers .

The full details of the trade are yet to be released, but RealGM.com will continue to update our users as the deal becomes official.

The Pacers have a $7.5 million trade exception, which will likely be involved in the deal.

The Warriors and Bulls were the two other teams believed to be most interested in acquiring Harrington.</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Bulls Send Smith To Denver For Eisley And Two 2nd Round Picks</TD></TR><TR><TD>20th July, 2006 - 7:45 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>Press Release - The Chicago Bulls announced today the team has traded guard J.R. Smith to the Denver Nuggets in exchange for Howard Eisley and two 2007 second-round draft picks from the Nuggets. The two second-round selections are Denver’s regular second-round pick in 2007, as well as the less favorable of Golden State’s 2007 regular second-round selection and Boston’s 2007 regular second-round selection.

Eisley, a 6-2, 185-pound point guard, was selected by the Minnesota Timberwolves in the second round (30th overall) of the 1994 NBA Draft. A 12-year veteran, he has played for eight different teams and posted averages of 6.5 ppg, 3.5 apg, 1.7 rpg and 20.4 mpg in 786 career appearances (167 starts).</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Banks Officially Signs Contract With Phoenix</TD></TR><TR><TD>20th July, 2006 - 7:57 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>Press Release - The Phoenix Suns today signed unrestricted free-agent point guard Marcus Banks to a multi-year contract. Per club policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

A three-year NBA veteran, Banks blossomed last season following a midseason trade to Minnesota. In 40 games with the Timberwolves, the 6-2, 200-pound playmaker averaged 12.0 points and 4.7 assists in 30.7 minutes per game, while starting the team’s final 28. He was acquired from the Boston Celtics in a seven-player trade on Jan. 26, 2006.

“We are really excited to bring Marcus Banks and his defensive abilities and quickness to our club,” Suns Head Coach and Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations/General Manager Mike D’Antoni said. “We think he’ll be a big part of our success next season.” </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Nene Finally Signs Contract With Denver</TD></TR><TR><TD>20th July, 2006 - 2:27 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>SI.com - Nene finally signed a six-year, $60 million contract on Thursday with the Denver Nuggets .

The contract was agreed upon in early July while Nene was on his honeymoon.

The Nuggets called an afternoon news conference with Nene, coach George Karl and director of player personnel Mark Warkentien to discuss the deal.</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Sergio Rodriguez Signs Rookie Contract With Blazers</TD></TR><TR><TD>20th July, 2006 - 1:47 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>RealGM - RealGM's Christopher Reina has confirmed with Herb Rudoy, agent for Sergio Rodriguez, that the Spaniard has indeed signed his rookie contract with the Portland TrailBlazers.

The Blazers were able to complete a buyout of his contract with Spanish League club Adecco Estudiantes, according to Rudoy.

It was reported earlier in the month that the Blazers had initially hoped Rodriguez would remain in Spain instead of coming over for the 2006-2007 season, but the 6-3 point guard nicknamed 'Spanish Chocolate' will be joining fellow rookies LaMarcus Aldridge and Brandon Roy in Portland.

The Phoenix Suns selected Rodriguez with the 27th overall pick in last month’s draft, but he was quickly dealt to the Blazers for cash considerations.</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>No Contract Extension Plans for Nets and Carter</TD></TR><TR><TD>20th July, 2006 - 12:03 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>Newark Star-Ledger - After the Celtics extended Paul Pierce, Nets star Vince Carter appears to have been left without the same opportunity from the Nets.

Both Carter and Pierce had signed identical contracts five years ago, calling for a $15.1 million salary in 2006-07 and a player option ($16.3 million) the next season.

"There's nothing really going on regarding him," Thorn said. "I think Vince's plan is to play this year and see what happens."</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Raptors Sign 2005 Second Rounder Slokar</TD></TR><TR><TD>20th July, 2006 - 11:49 am</TD></TR><TR><TD>SiOL - A popular Slovenian website is reporting that Uros Slokar will join fellow countryman Rasho Nesterovic to play center for the Toronto Raptors .

Slokar had three teams interested in his services, the other two are expected to have been Euroleague teams, but Slokar ultimately decided to play in the NBA.

Slokar will join the team after the world championships in Japan.</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

Interesting to see Al return to Indy. That makes the Pacers more of a threat to the Cavs.

I don't see why the Bulls didn't try to get more out of JR Smith. He has a ton of upside. I didn't think Eisley and 2 second rounders was enough. Good deal for Denver, in my opinion.

[jlb1705]

http://www.sportsline.com/nba/story/NBA_SC-RUMOR

Cleveland Cavaliers Updated:07/20/2006
Damon Jones is being shopped by the Cavs, according to the Akron Beacon Journal. <st1:city w:st="on"><st1>Cleveland</st1></st1:city> is also keeping an eye on Jay Williams, who has worked out for 10 teams in the past month.

[Bob Saccamano]

Yeah DJ has been on the block for about a week or so. Hopefully someone wants his contract and we get something fairly decent for him. Maybe he'll be dealt with Drew.

I don't know about Williams. I don't think we should spend to much on him ecspecially since he's coming off a career threatening injury. I guess it wouldn't be to bad if we can't find a good deal for Drew. Honestly I'd rather settle for Wesley than Williams.

[Bob Saccamano]

http://www.realgm.com/

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Salmons Backs Out Of Toronto Deal</TD></TR><TR><TD>22nd July, 2006 - 2:05 am</TD></TR><TR><TD>TSN.ca - John Salmons has decided against joining the Toronto Raptors .

According to the Toronto Star, Salmons has backed out of a 5-year, $23 million sign and trade deal that would sent Salmons to the Raptors for a second round draft pick in 2007.

"Upon reviewing the basketball situation in Toronto, John decided it's not the best fit for him," said a statement released Friday from Salmons' agent, Joel Bell.

"In a very stressful and tough decision, he decided he could not accept the opportunity to play for the Raptors, even though he was excited about the prospect of being in Toronto."

Salmons previously had to make a decision as to whether he wanted to join the Raptors or the Phoenix Suns , but the Suns offer is now off the table after the team signed guard Marcus Banks to a deal similar to that rejected by Salmons.

"I'm sorry it didn't work out, I wish him the best," Toronto president and general manager Bryan Colangelo said last night.

Philadelphia have also rescinded their qualifying offer to Salmons, making the guard an unrestricted free agent.</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=2 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD vAlign=top width="1%"> </TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%"><TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Yao Says His Foot Feels Great</TD></TR><TR><TD>21st July, 2006 - 12:23 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>Washington Post - Yao Ming spoke confidently about his injuries during a press conference held on Friday.

"As to my injury, I don't have any major concerns. Everything's going really smoothly," Yao told reporters.

Yao was wearing sneakers and walking without a trace of discomfort, adding there were no worries about his recovery.

"Do I look like a guy with a foot injury?" he asked. </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Marvin Williams Named MVP Of Rocky Mountain Revue</TD></TR><TR><TD>22nd July, 2006 - 12:35 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>ESPN - Hawks forward Marvin Williams has been named Most Valuable Player of the Rocky Mountain Revue, after averaging a Revue-best 23.2 ppg, 5.0 rpg, 3.2 apg and 0.6 spg in 31.8 mpg (.549 FG%, 2-2 3FGs, .879 FT%), playing in five of the six games.

The rest of the all-tournament team consists of Utah's Ronnie Brewer and Paul Millsap, Philadelphia's Steven Smith and Louis Williams and Seattle's Andre Emmett.</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Gooden Talks Continue</TD></TR><TR><TD>22nd July, 2006 - 5:15 am</TD></TR><TR><TD>The Morning Journal - It appears that Drew Gooden and the Cavaliers are no closer to a resolution, according to The Morning Journal, but the two sides are still talking.

His agent, Calvin Andrews, spent the day with Gooden in Orlando on Thursday briefing him on negotiations.

''There's nothing going on,'' Andrews said. ''I spent the day with Drew. We're having dialogue. We talked to those guys (the Cavaliers), but there's nothing concrete.''

''I think there's progress. I don't know which way -- signing him or possibly a sign-and-trade. I feel good about the talks that we're having.''

One thing more important than contract negotiations is going on with the Cavaliers. General manager Danny Ferry's wife, Tiffany, was supposedly going into labor with the couple's fifth child. </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Judge Rules For Michael Jordan In Legal Battle With Woman</TD></TR><TR><TD>22nd July, 2006 - 12:26 am</TD></TR><TR><TD>AP - A judge ruled Friday for Michael Jordan in a legal battle between the former NBA star and a woman who claimed Jordan reneged on a promise to pay her $5 million in hush money when she claimed she was pregnant with his child.

Judge Stuart E. Palmer ruled in Cook County Circuit Court that any alleged agreement between Jordan and Karla Knafel would be invalid, pointing to definitive tests that showed Jordan is not the child's father. </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Pollin Will Do Everything He Can To Keep Arenas</TD></TR><TR><TD>21st July, 2006 - 11:31 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>Washington Times - Wizards' owner Abe Pollin said that he will do everything he can to keep Gilbert Arenas in Washington.

"I talked to Gilbert and he's not interested in opting out -- I've talked to him personally," Pollin said. "He wants to win a championship. I said, 'Gilbert, what do you think I want to do? I want to win a championship, and that's why I'm doing everything I can to win a championship. And I won't stop doing it until we win one.'

"And," Pollin continued, "we are going to win a championship. Maybe not this year, but we are going to win one soon. That is our goal."</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Sura Begins Practicing Again In Comeback Attempt</TD></TR><TR><TD>21st July, 2006 - 11:29 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>NBA.com - After being sidelined for the past 15 months, Bobby Sura is practicing for the first time since undergoing micro-fracture surgery on his right knee.

"I want to give it one more shot because I miss it so much," Sura said. "It's not going to be for another contract and it's not going to be for the money. It's strictly for the love of the game."

Sura, who had surgery to clean out loose particles in his knee, has already worked out with the Rockets four times.</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

[Bob Saccamano]

http://www.realgm.com/

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Raptors Could Make Another Pitch To Ukic</TD></TR><TR><TD>22nd July, 2006 - 8:28 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>Toronto Sun - With John Salmons backing out of a deal that would send him to Toronto, the club could make another pitch to 2005 second-round pick Roko Ukic, a 6-foot-5 point guard from Croatia.

"Until the window of opportunity is closed, I can't say it's not open," said Marc Cornstein, Ukic's agent, who held talks with Colangelo last month. "I'd still say it's more unlikely to happen than likely at this point, but stranger things have happened." </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Gooden Talks Continue</TD></TR><TR><TD>22nd July, 2006 - 5:15 am</TD></TR><TR><TD>The Morning Journal - It appears that Drew Gooden and the Cavaliers are no closer to a resolution, according to The Morning Journal, but the two sides are still talking.

His agent, Calvin Andrews, spent the day with Gooden in Orlando on Thursday briefing him on negotiations.

''There's nothing going on,'' Andrews said. ''I spent the day with Drew. We're having dialogue. We talked to those guys (the Cavaliers), but there's nothing concrete.''

''I think there's progress. I don't know which way -- signing him or possibly a sign-and-trade. I feel good about the talks that we're having.''

One thing more important than contract negotiations is going on with the Cavaliers. General manager Danny Ferry's wife, Tiffany, was supposedly going into labor with the couple's fifth child. </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Lakers And Heat To Meet On Christmas For 3rd Straight Year</TD></TR><TR><TD>22nd July, 2006 - 8:34 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>Los Angeles Times - A league source has confirmed to the L.A. Times that the Lakers and Heat will meet again on Christmas Day for the third consecutive year.

The Heat have won three out of the four games against the Lakers since Shaquille O'Neal was traded to Miami. </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Evans' Agent Optimistic He'll Stay In Denver</TD></TR><TR><TD>22nd July, 2006 - 8:30 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>Rocky Mountain News - Maruce Evans' agent, Dan Fegan, said he and the Nuggets are "working through a number of things," and he was optimistic Evans would return to Denver.

"We're still confident that he'll end up with the Nuggets," Fegan said Friday. "I think it'll work out."

The odds of Evans re-signing went up dramatically after the club elected not to match the offer sheet that Francisco Elson signed with San Antonio.</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Marvin Williams Named MVP Of Rocky Mountain Revue</TD></TR><TR><TD>22nd July, 2006 - 12:35 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>ESPN - Hawks forward Marvin Williams has been named Most Valuable Player of the Rocky Mountain Revue, after averaging a Revue-best 23.2 ppg, 5.0 rpg, 3.2 apg and 0.6 spg in 31.8 mpg (.549 FG%, 2-2 3FGs, .879 FT%), playing in five of the six games.

The rest of the all-tournament team consists of Utah's Ronnie Brewer and Paul Millsap, Philadelphia's Steven Smith and Louis Williams and Seattle's Andre Emmett.</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Salmons Backs Out Of Toronto Deal</TD></TR><TR><TD>22nd July, 2006 - 2:05 am</TD></TR><TR><TD>TSN.ca - John Salmons has decided against joining the Toronto Raptors .

According to the Toronto Star, Salmons has backed out of a 5-year, $23 million sign and trade deal that would sent Salmons to the Raptors for a second round draft pick in 2007.

"Upon reviewing the basketball situation in Toronto, John decided it's not the best fit for him," said a statement released Friday from Salmons' agent, Joel Bell.

"In a very stressful and tough decision, he decided he could not accept the opportunity to play for the Raptors, even though he was excited about the prospect of being in Toronto."

Salmons previously had to make a decision as to whether he wanted to join the Raptors or the Phoenix Suns , but the Suns offer is now off the table after the team signed guard Marcus Banks to a deal similar to that rejected by Salmons.

"I'm sorry it didn't work out, I wish him the best," Toronto president and general manager Bryan Colangelo said last night.

Philadelphia have also rescinded their qualifying offer to Salmons, making the guard an unrestricted free agent.</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Judge Rules For Michael Jordan In Legal Battle With Woman</TD></TR><TR><TD>22nd July, 2006 - 12:26 am</TD></TR><TR><TD>AP - A judge ruled Friday for Michael Jordan in a legal battle between the former NBA star and a woman who claimed Jordan reneged on a promise to pay her $5 million in hush money when she claimed she was pregnant with his child.

Judge Stuart E. Palmer ruled in Cook County Circuit Court that any alleged agreement between Jordan and Karla Knafel would be invalid, pointing to definitive tests that showed Jordan is not the child's father. </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

Congrats to Danny and his 5th child!

[Bob Saccamano]

http://www.realgm.com/

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Anthony Johnson Is Going To Dallas</TD></TR><TR><TD>23rd July, 2006 - 4:11 am</TD></TR><TR><TD>Indianapolis Star - The Indiana Pacers are on the verge of finalizing a deal with the Mavericks for veteran point guard Darrell Armstrong in a sign-and-trade deal, according to people with knowledge of the situation. According to the Indianapolis Star, the Pacers will give up guard Anthony Johnson in the deal, while also receiving Mavericks forward Josh Powell.

According to the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Rawle Marshall will also be included from the Mavericks.

The deal is pending league approval, which could happen as early as Monday.

Johnson, who spent three seasons with the Pacers, was a steady contributor despite roles that ranged from third-string point guard to starter. He averaged 20.0 points, 5.2 assists and 5.0 rebounds while outplaying New Jersey's Jason Kidd in the Pacers' six-game, first-round playoff loss last season.

Trading Johnson, who said the team's "culture has to change" at the end of last season, avoids a point guard controversy with Jamaal Tinsley. Pacers president Larry Bird said Tinsley is "as good as you're going to get" if he is healthy in his season-ending news conference. Tinsley has battled injuries each of the past three seasons.

Sarunas Jasikevicius is also a candidate to be traded in the Pacers' crowded backcourt. Rookie James White and newly acquired Marquis Daniels can also play point guard.
The acquisition of Armstrong, a 13-year veteran, would give the Pacers a veteran voice in the locker room. He has averaged 10.1 points and 4.4 assists in his career. Powell, a rookie last season who went undrafted in 2003, averaged 3.0 points and 2.2 rebounds in 37 games last season.

This is the second offseason trade for the Pacers, who sent Croshere to Dallas for Daniels.

Shooting guard Fred Jones could be the next Pacer traded. The Toronto Star reported today that Jones is headed to the Raptors. The deal could be finalized in the next couple of days.</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Duffy: Jones Will Sign With Raptors</TD></TR><TR><TD>23rd July, 2006 - 10:36 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>FOX Sports - According to Fred Jones' agent Bill Duffy, his client will sign with the Toronto Raptors in the next few days.

The Pacers made a qualifying offer to Jones earlier this summer but rescinded the offer last week, making Jones an unrestricted free agent.

"We were behind the eight-ball," Duffy said. "Other situations were not available that would have been available because time had elapsed."</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Wolves Target Wright And Evans</TD></TR><TR><TD>23rd July, 2006 - 11:46 am</TD></TR><TR><TD>Star Tribune - Reportedly, the Wolves are targeting Lorenzen Wright or Reggie Evans. At this point, the market for big men remains a little rich for the Wolves, so they hope that it cools and they are able to sign either Wright or Evans.</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Avery, Cuban Clash On Contract</TD></TR><TR><TD>23rd July, 2006 - 6:38 am</TD></TR><TR><TD>Fort Worth Star-Telegram - Talks of a contract extension and/or enhancement between the Mavericks and the representatives for head coach Avery Johnson have been shelved, the Fort Worth Star-Telegram is reporting.

According to sources, at issue is Johnson's current contract, which has three years remaining at approximately $2.5 million per season. The deal ranks in the bottom third of the NBA's 30 coaches.

Each of the other seven coaches who took teams to the Western Conference playoffs last season was paid more than Johnson.

Johnson's inexperience explains his current salary. His rapid success, however, would make Johnson a hot commodity able to command big money on the open market.

It's not uncommon for coaches coming off successful seasons to have their contracts restructured in "good faith" gestures from the club. Mike Brown (Cavaliers), Eddie Jordan (Wizards) and Byron Scott (Hornets) each signed new deals recently.

So far, communication between Cuban and Johnson has been scarce, according to the sources. Cuban and Johnson both declined comment.

The sources also said Johnson would be agreeable to an extension with a significant bonus that would up his average salary in line with other top coaches in the $5 million range, but Cuban has kept a hard-line stance by refusing to renegotiate.

Negotiations on a new contract between Cuban and the agent for assistant coach Del Harris also have stalled.</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Warriors' 6-Foot-11 Murphy Takes Field With Newark Bears</TD></TR><TR><TD>23rd July, 2006 - 12:39 am</TD></TR><TR><TD>Associated Press - Troy Murphy of the Warriors was in very unfamiliar territory on Friday night.

Instead of standing under a basket going for a rebound or behind the 3-point line taking a jumper, Murphy found himself in the third base coach's box, working for the Newark Bears of the Atlantic League as part of "Troy Murphy Night."

"I'm a huge baseball fan," the NBA forward said about 90 minutes before lifting his 6-foot-11 frame off the bench in the dugout and trotting to the coach's box in the bottom of the first inning.

Once there, the New Jersey native looked out of position -- literally. </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>U.S. Team Adjusting Well To International Game Differences</TD></TR><TR><TD>23rd July, 2006 - 12:19 am</TD></TR><TR><TD>AP - Chris Paul already has a handle on the slick-surfaced, extra-bouncy, two-tone basketball he'll use in the world championships next month.

"It looks different and it feels a little different, but I don't really have a problem with it," the Hornets guard says, holding the Japanese-made, orange-and-tan ball in his left hand after practice with the U.S. national team. "There's a lot of different things about this tournament."

Indeed. Elsewhere on UNLV's practice courts on Saturday, Elton Brand was getting reacquainted with the international game's trapezoidal key during a scrimmage officiated by FIBA referees, while Carmelo Anthony waited for the chance to steal an opponent's rebound off the rim, something that's illegal in the NBA. </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Lakers And Heat To Meet On Christmas For 3rd Straight Year</TD></TR><TR><TD>22nd July, 2006 - 8:34 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>Los Angeles Times - A league source has confirmed to the L.A. Times that the Lakers and Heat will meet again on Christmas Day for the third consecutive year.

The Heat have won three out of the four games against the Lakers since Shaquille O'Neal was traded to Miami. </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Evans' Agent Optimistic He'll Stay In Denver</TD></TR><TR><TD>22nd July, 2006 - 8:30 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>Rocky Mountain News - Reggie Evans' agent, Dan Fegan, said he and the Nuggets are "working through a number of things," and he was optimistic Evans would return to Denver.

"We're still confident that he'll end up with the Nuggets," Fegan said Friday. "I think it'll work out."

The odds of Evans re-signing went up dramatically after the club elected not to match the offer sheet that Francisco Elson signed with San Antonio. </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

[Bob Saccamano]

http://www.realgm.com/

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Kings Sign Salmons, Will Let Wells Walk</TD></TR><TR><TD>24th July, 2006 - 8:50 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>NBA.com - The Sacramento Kings signed free agent guard John Salmons to a multi-year contract, it was announced by Kings’ President of Basketball Operations Geoff Petrie. The deal is speculated to use the Kings full mid-level exception

“We’re excited to add a versatile player like John to our team,” said Petrie. “He can play three positions. We feel he’s still an emerging player in the NBA. He’ll add to the youth and overall skill level of our backcourt, and I’m really looking forward to watching him play for the Kings.”

Geoff Petrie appeared on KHTK-AM show Sportsline 1140 with Grant Napear and Mike Lamb to announce the deal and also clarify that the team would no longer pursue re-signing Bonzi Wells. </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Marion Withdraws From Contention For US Japan Trip</TD></TR><TR><TD>24th July, 2006 - 11:35 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>ESPN - Suns star Shawn Marion pulled out of contention for a spot on the 15-man roster that will be Japan-bound because of a left knee injury, ESPN's Andy Katz is reporting.

Players who don't make the trip aren't being cut from the overall national team program, which is a three-year commitment.

"The process [of picking the team] was great,'' Marion said. "Everybody feels a part of the family for all three years. If I'm not there, I'll still feel like I'm there cheering them on.''

"My knee has been bothering me a bit. I sat out the last two days of practice. I just came in here and got right into it. So, I'm going to check it out [Tuesday]. I'll make sure there's nothing wrong with it, rest it and take care of it.''

The 15 players who likely will return to Las Vegas on July 31 for exhibition games will be announced Tuesday morning at the Wynn Hotel.

Marion's departure trims the roster down to 17, leaving two more possible cuts -- likely Seattle point guard Luke Ridnour and former Gonzaga forward and Charlotte Bobcats first-round draft pick Adam Morrison.

That means the 15 players likely to travel to Asia are: Carmelo Anthony, Gilbert Arenas, Shane Battier, Chris Bosh, Bruce Bowen, Elton Brand, Dwight Howard, LeBron James, Antawn Jamison, Joe Johnson, Brad Miller, Chris Paul, Amare Stoudemire, Dwyane Wade and Kirk Hinrich.

The coaching staff will meet Tuesday morning before the news conference to make the final call.

Ridnour looks to lose out to Chicago's Hinrich, and Morrison is up against veteran options.</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Bowen Makes Team USA Cut</TD></TR><TR><TD>24th July, 2006 - 9:21 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>San Antonio Express-News - Spurs defensive guard Bruce Bowen was one of 15 payers chosen to participate in a continuation of training and a series of “friendly” games against international teams in China, Korea and Japan as a tune-up for the team's participation in the 2006 FIBA World Championships, scheduled for Aug. 19-Sept. 3 in Japan, the San Antonio Express-News is reporting.

The 12-man team that will represent the United States will be selected from the 15-man roster that will head to Asia after an exhibition game against Puerto Rico's national team on Aug. 3.

While the roster for the Asian tour won't be formally announced until Tuesday, a source close to the selection committee said Bowen made the cut.</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Johnson Fine With Contract</TD></TR><TR><TD>24th July, 2006 - 7:20 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>Dallas Morning News - Dallas Mavericks coach Avery Johnson said that if there ever was a point when the coach’s contract was a problem, those days are past.

Johnson hinted that his contract may have been amended.

“Right now, I have a contract,’’ said Johnson, 41, who will earn about $2.5 million next season. “And if there is a time that Mark wants to revisit it, we will. But nobody else is going to know." </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Pacers Announce Dallas Trade</TD></TR><TR><TD>24th July, 2006 - 3:24 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>Press Release - The Indiana Pacers announced Monday they have acquired guard Darrell Armstrong, swingman Rawle Marshall and forward Josh Powell from the Dallas Mavericks in exchange for point guard Anthony Johnson.

Armstrong is a 6-1, 180-pound 11-year veteran who played the majority of his career with the Orlando Magic . He has career averages of 10.1 points per game and 4.1 assists per game. He played 62 games with the Mavericks last season, averaging 2.1 ppg and 1.4 apg.

Powell is a 6-9, 235-pound forward from North Carolina State. He played 37 games for Dallas last season, averaging 3.2 ppg and 2.2 rpg. Marshall is a 6-7, 190-pound forward/guard who played collegiately at Oakland University in Michigan. He played 23 games last season, averaging 3.1 ppg and 1.3 rpg. Both players were signed by the Mavericks as rookie free agents in August 2005.

“Darrell Armstrong is a good fit, a solid professional, a great guy in the locker room and someone who brings a lot of energy to a team,” said Pacers President of Basketball Operations Larry Bird. “Both Powell and Marshall are young and talented players who possibly can help us and we’re excited to take a look at them. Their experience with a championship-caliber team like Dallas last season gives them the mentality of what it takes to win at the highest level.

Bird added, “We appreciate everything Anthony Johnson did for the organization, on and off the court. He performed well for us, both as a starter and as a backup.” </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Pistons Sign Blalock To Multiyear Contract</TD></TR><TR><TD>24th July, 2006 - 3:22 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>AP - The Pistons signed second-round draft pick Will Blalock to a multiyear contract on Monday.

"We are pleased," said Joe Dumars, the Pistons' president of basketball operations. "Will had a good showing at the Vegas summer league and we are excited about his potential and ability to give us depth at the point guard position."

The Pistons selected Blalock out of Iowa State with the 60th and final pick of last month's NBA draft.</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Raptors Officially Sign Garbajosa</TD></TR><TR><TD>24th July, 2006 - 1:18 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>Raptors.com - The Toronto Raptors announced Monday they have signed free agent forward Jorge Garbajosa to a multi-year contract.

“Jorge Garbajosa has contributed toward winning at every stop in his professional career,” said Bryan Colangelo, president and general manager of the Raptors. “We anticipate he will bring experience, leadership and toughness to this basketball team.” </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Harrington To Indiana Deal Almost Done</TD></TR><TR><TD>24th July, 2006 - 10:23 am</TD></TR><TR><TD>ESPN - The Indiana Pacers are closing in on acquiring Al Harrington via a sign-and-trade deal, according to a report on ESPN by Marc Stein.

Multiple front office sources believe that the deal is as good as done.

The Pacers' chief competition, the Golden State Warriors , expect Harrington to end up in Indiana with a six-year $57 million deal.

Harrington, sources said, initially told interested suitors he was expecting a six-year deal worth at least $66 million. For the Pacers to pay that much, Atlanta almost certainly would have to be willing to accept a package built around Indiana center Jeff Foster. But Foster, by all indications, is not part of the forthcoming trade.

Indy's unforeseen trade exception from the Peja Stojakovic sign and trade gets Harrington fairly close to his financial target and the team he likes best.

With a modest cash payment believed to be in the $250,000 range, Indiana convinced the Hornets to participate in a sign-and-trade swap for Stojakovic instead of signing him outright.

Without the $7.5 million trade exception resulting from that maneuver, Indiana wouldn't be able to complete a sign-and-trade for Harrington unless the Hawks were willing to take back contracts in the same monetary range as Harrington's new first-year salary. </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

[jlb1705]

Originally Posted by GregOden50

Yeah DJ has been on the block for about a week or so. Hopefully someone wants his contract and we get something fairly decent for him. Maybe he'll be dealt with Drew.

I don't know about Williams. I don't think we should spend to much on him ecspecially since he's coming off a career threatening injury. I guess it wouldn't be to bad if we can't find a good deal for Drew. Honestly I'd rather settle for Wesley than Williams.

Yeah, I knew Jones was on the block. I just posted the rumor due to the mention of Jay Williams. That was the first time I'd seen the Cavs mentioned in regards to him. I'm not sure about him either, but he may be worth the gamble if the Cavs can sign him for cheap. At the very least, with the Cavs' needs at PG, they should be giving him a look.

[Bob Saccamano]

http://www.realgm.com/

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Iverson Off The Table</TD></TR><TR><TD>25th July, 2006 - 6:24 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>Philadelphia Daily News - This was going to be the summer Allen Iverson's days in Philadelphia would come to an end. On Tuesday, Billy King said that the Iverson era will continue, as he confirmmed that there will be no more discussed deals involving the All-Star.

"Allen and I have talked about it, and he wants to be here and is excited to be playing for us."

King said he is "still working the phones, talking to people [about prospective deals]."

"We're trying to do what's best to make us a better ballclub," he said. "That's not including Allen in our discussions."</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>USA Cuts Down To 15</TD></TR><TR><TD>25th July, 2006 - 2:24 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>The Star - The USA finalized their 15-man roster on Tuesday, which includes LeBron James, Carmelo Anthony, Dwyane Wade, Shane Battier, Bruce Bowen, Elton Brand, Dwight Howard, Antawn Jamison, Joe Johnson, Brad Miller, Gilbert Arenas, Amare Stoudemire, Kirk Hinrich, Chris Bosh and Chris Paul.

Coach Mike Krzyzewski and his staff must trim the roster to 12 players before the world championships.

Shawn Marion, Adam Morrison and Luke Ridnour were cut in this round.

The team will play five warmup games in Las Vegas, China and Korea before opening the world championships in Japan on Aug. 19. </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Kevin Love Will Attend UCLA</TD></TR><TR><TD>25th July, 2006 - 5:55 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>ESPN.com - Kevin Love, arguably one of the top two players in the class of 2007 with guard O.J. Mayo of North College Hill (Ohio) High, could go against his summer-league rival at least twice in 2007-08 if Mayo follows through with his private proclamation to the USC staff that he would sign with the Trojans.

The big Oregonian center decided that he would attend UCLA today.

"It would be crazy if we were both there [in L.A.]," Love said. "We have a good friendship and it would be a lot of fun. It'd be huge for the USC-UCLA rivalry."

Apparently, UCLA coach Ben Howland was so ecstatic that, according to Love, the UCLA coach was near tears.

Howland was recently met with a long-term contract extension from the legendary college program. </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Raptors Sign P.J. Tucker To Multi-Year Deal</TD></TR><TR><TD>25th July, 2006 - 5:15 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>TSN.ca - P.J. Tucker has agreed to a multi-year contract with the Toronto Raptors .

Financial details were not disclosed.

Tucker, 6-foot-5, 225 pounds, was an early entry candidate for the draft after three seasons at the University of Texas. He was taken by the Raptors with the 35th overall pick in June's NBA Draft. </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Redick Named ACC Male Athlete Of The Year</TD></TR><TR><TD>25th July, 2006 - 2:51 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>Associated Press - Recently drafted sharp shooter J.J. Redick was named the Atlantic Coast Conference Male Athlete of the Year today.

Redick claimed the Anthony J. McKevlin Award after he became the A.C.C's all-time scoring leader with 2769 points while setting an NCAA record with 457 three-point field goals.

Redick was selected with the 11th overall pick in this year's NBA Draft by the Orlando Magic </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Bucks Sign Markota To Multiyear Deal</TD></TR><TR><TD>25th July, 2006 - 2:23 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>Sportsline - The Milwaukee Bucks signed Croatian forward Damir Markota (59th overall pick) to a multiyear contract on Tuesday.

Markota was from the San Antonio Spurs in exchange for the better of Milwaukee's two second-round draft picks in 2007. </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Terry Returns From Bahamas To Sign $50 Million Deal</TD></TR><TR><TD>25th July, 2006 - 1:20 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>Star-Telegram - Jason Terry returned from his vacation in the Bahamas to sign a six-year $50 million contract with the Mavericks.

Terry had agreed upon the contract on July 1st.

“For me, it’s a no-brainer,” Terry said. “I’m at the prime of my career, so getting a long-term deal now was the No. 1 priority.”

“It means a lot to me — the commitment that the Mavs have shown to me and the support they’ve shown me all year long,” said Terry, who spent five seasons with the Atlanta Hawks . “For me, personally (coming to the Mavs) I knew it was an opportunity to play on a winning team and to finally get to the playoffs where I could showcase my skill level.

“But I also knew this was a chance for me to become a better player all-around. This is truly a blessing.” </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Joe Johnson Expected To Make U.S. Roster For Japan</TD></TR><TR><TD>25th July, 2006 - 12:17 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>Cox News Service - Joe Johnson's inclusion with the other 25 players on the national team roster is a sign that his relentless work ethic, talent and potential are appreciated.

"I don't know if there can be a more solid player," Team USA coach Mike Krzyzewski said. "He can play four positions, he shoots, he defends and doesn't say a peep about anything. There's high maintenance, low maintenance and no maintenance. Joe's no maintenance... I think he's a star."

Johnson is a good bet to be one of the players named today to the travel roster for next month's World Championships in Japan, as the list is cut to 15 players.

The roster will be trimmed to its final 12 on the eve of going to Japan. </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

[Bob Saccamano]

http://www.realgm.com/

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Iverson Relieved To Be Staying In Philly</TD></TR><TR><TD>26th July, 2006 - 12:41 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>Philadelphia Daily News - Gary Moore, Allen Iverson's manager, confirmed that Billy King flew to Atlanta on Tuesday and with Iverson for roughly 2 ½ hours in a hospitality suite in an area hotel.

"We have never been more excited,'' Moore said last night. "We couldn't be more excited. Allen is very excited to be part of the team, and is looking forward to training camp.

"Allen wasn't as surprised as he was relieved. He always wanted to be in Philadelphia, but he felt he had deserved better as far as communication.''

Moore termed the meeting "long overdue.''

Said Leon Rose, Iverson's agent: "He's happy, excited and can focus on the task at hand. I'm not surprised. I said I didn't think he'd be traded. That was my gut.'' </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Raptors Buy Out, Release Alvin Williams</TD></TR><TR><TD>26th July, 2006 - 11:22 am</TD></TR><TR><TD>NBA.com - The Toronto Raptors have released Alvin Williams after the two sides came to an agreement on a buy out.

“I have the greatest respect for Alvin Williams, both as a basketball player and as a human being,” said Bryan Colangelo, president and general manager of the Raptors. “Parting ways is simply something that needed to be done for this franchise and Alvin to both move forward.”

Williams has been sidelined by an injured right knee that has limited him to one game since March 19, 2004. He had microscopic surgery on the knee November 22, 2004 and arthroscopic surgery in December.</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Barkley Thinking About Running For Governor</TD></TR><TR><TD>26th July, 2006 - 2:37 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>USA Today - Charles Barkley is leaning towards the Democratic side of things of late and once again is considering a run at governor of Alabama.

"Alabama, that's my home. I'm thinking about running for governor; they need my help," the always quotable Charles Barkley said.

"What I've said is I'm rich like a Republican, but I'm not one," Barkley said in remarks reported by The Birmingham News.</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Grizzlies Have Yet To Speak To Swift</TD></TR><TR><TD>26th July, 2006 - 12:38 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>Commercial Appeal - Mike Fratello confirmmed that the club has yet to speak to Stromile Swift, who was re-acquired by the Grizzlies as part of a draft day trade for Rudy Gay.

Swift's agent, Andy Miller, told The Commercial Appeal earlier this month that his client would "make this work." </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Bonzi's Agent Say Sign-And-Trade Options Will Be Discussed</TD></TR><TR><TD>26th July, 2006 - 12:31 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>Sacramento Bee - William Phillips, agent for Bonzi Wells, told the Sacramento Bee that he will discuss sign-and-trade options with the Kings.

His optimism that a sign-and-trade deal can get done appear futile, as the Kings will likely try to stay below the luxury tax threshold.

The club has $800,000 remaining from their mid-level exception and a separate exception worth $1.75 million.</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Celtics Sign Undrafted Rookie Kevin Pittsnogle</TD></TR><TR><TD>26th July, 2006 - 11:37 am</TD></TR><TR><TD>ESPN - Free agent Kevin Pittsnogle has signed a two-year contract with the Boston Celtics , his agent said Wednesday.

Pittsnogle, a 6-foot-11 center who is West Virginia's career 3-point leader, was passed over in June's NBA draft.</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Fran Vasquez Signs Huge Deal With FC Barcelona</TD></TR><TR><TD>26th July, 2006 - 11:32 am</TD></TR><TR><TD>Mundo Deportivo - A Spanish sports newspaper is reporting that 2005 Orlando Magic lottery pick has signed a long-term contract with a large buyout sum with FC Barcelona.

The deal is a four-year contract. He will earn 1.4 million euros ($1.75 million USD) per year and he will have an approximately 8.5 million euros ($10.75 million USD) buyout.</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Salmons: "I Didn't Feel Toronto Was Where God Was Leading"</TD></TR><TR><TD>26th July, 2006 - 10:26 am</TD></TR><TR><TD>Philadelphia Daily News - John Salmons chose an interesting way to explain why he decided to ultimately walk away from a verbal agreement with the Toronto Raptors .

"Originally, I felt like I had to make a decision," Salmons said. "But I didn't really feel [Toronto] was where God was leading me..."It was hard to tell [Bell], but I had to," he said. "It took all the courage in the world. I had faith something good would happen, but I'm human like anyone else; I was still nervous. I tried not to worry. Joel was pulling out his hair. Then a couple days later, he told me Sacramento had called... I slept on it. It felt right." </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

[Bob Saccamano]

http://www.realgm.com/

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Milwaukee, Portland Discussing Magloire Deal</TD></TR><TR><TD>28th July, 2006 - 10:17 am</TD></TR><TR><TD>FAN 1080 - Ian Furness, a host for Portland's FAN 1080 is reporting a proposed deal where the Blazers would send Steve Blake, Brian Skinner and Ha Seung-Jin to Milwaukee for Jamaal Magloire.

RealGM.com will keep you updates as these trade talks progress.</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Harrington Deal Close But Stalling</TD></TR><TR><TD>28th July, 2006 - 2:33 am</TD></TR><TR><TD>Atlanta Journal-Constitution - The terms of the sign-and-trade deal that will send Hawks free agent Al Harrington to Indiana are nearly done, according to two people familiar with the negotiations.

According to a report by Sekou Smith of the Atlanta Journal-Constitituion, the Hawks will sign Harrington to a six-year deal worth an estimated $60 million and then send him and reserve center John Edwards, both former Pacers, back to Indiana in exchange for cash, a future draft pick and a trade exception.

The sticking point of the deal is the cash the Hawks will receive according to those familiar with the negotiations. The Hawks want more than the Pacers are willing to give. A deal for Harrington has stalled nearly a month after the NBA's free-agent negotiating period began.

"No, there is no deal. There is nothing new to report," Hawks general manager Billy Knight said Thursday afternoon.

While frustrated fans continue to wonder how long it will take for the deal to be done, Knight said he's not experiencing the same frustrations.

"I'm not exasperated at all," he said. "All you can do is see what happens at the end of the day and just let this thing play out."

"Obviously we're disappointed at the pace of the transaction," Harrington's New York-based agent Andy Miller said Thursday, "but I will say that everybody is working diligently to find a solution to execute."

The Pacers secured a $7.5 million trade exception in an earlier sign-and-trade deal with New Orleans/Oklahoma City that allows them to make the deal with the Hawks.

They're over the NBA's salary cap and would not be able to acquire Harrington without it.

Pacers president Donnie Walsh told the Indianapolis Star on Thursday that they are waiting on Knight.

"It's up to Billy now," he said.

"We're just waiting to here where we are. I have hope it can get straightened out, sooner rather than later. That's important to us. But I don't think we've reached a point where we say 'We have to get it done or we can't use the [trade] exception.'

"We'll just keep working on it and see if we can get it done."</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Kings Waive Monia</TD></TR><TR><TD>28th July, 2006 - 1:42 am</TD></TR><TR><TD>Blazers Blog - The Kings requested waivers on small forward Sergei Monia.

The 23-year-old came to Sacramento from Portland in a Feb. 23 trade and played in only three games. His departure will clear about $1 million off the Kings' books.

Monia was waived due to his desire to return to Europe and resume his career overseas.</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Shinn: Hornets Are New Orleans' Team To Lose</TD></TR><TR><TD>28th July, 2006 - 1:39 am</TD></TR><TR><TD>Associated Press - New Orleans Hornets owner George Shinn said Wednesday that the team is still headed back to New Orleans.

Shinn said the $350 million purchase of the Seattle Sonics will have no effect on the Hornets, who are about to spend their second season in Oklahoma City, where the team temporarily relocated after Hurricane Katrina.

"Technically, the Hornets are New Orleans' team to lose," Shinn said. "Right now, everything is going in a positive direction and all indicators are that we'll be going back. What happens, I don't know. I can't read tea leaves and predict the future. But I'm just at total peace that whatever happens, it's going to be God's will. That's all I can do."</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Suns Sign Sean Marks</TD></TR><TR><TD>27th July, 2006 - 7:36 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>Press Release - The Phoenix Suns added frontcourt depth today by signing unrestricted free-agent forward/center Sean Marks to a one-year contract.

A seven-year NBA veteran, Marks joins his fifth NBA team (Toronto, Miami, Seattle, San Antonio) and has averaged 3.1 points and 2.0 rebounds in 9.6 minutes in 105 career games (signed a 10-day contract with the Sonics in the 2000-01 season, but did not play).

The 6-10, 250-pound forward/center enjoyed his best season in 2001-02 when he posted career highs of 4.6 points and 3.6 rebounds in 15.2 minutes in 21 games with the Heat. Last season Marks, who turns 31 on Aug. 23, averaged 3.2 points and 1.7 rebounds in 7.2 minutes in a career-high 25 games for the Spurs.

Marks, who became the first native of New Zealand to play in the NBA when he made his debut with the Toronto Raptors vs. New Jersey on March 16, 1999, is the sixth international player on the Sun roster, joining Steve Nash (Canada), Boris Diaw (France), Leandro Barbosa (Brazil), Raja Bell (Virgin Islands) and Pat Burke (Ireland).</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Raptors Sign 6-Foot-11 Slovenian Forward Slokar</TD></TR><TR><TD>27th July, 2006 - 5:18 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>AP - The Raptors signed Slovenian forward Uros Slokar to a one-year contract on Thursday, making him the latest European to join the team.

Toronto selected Slokar with the 58th overall pick in the 2005 NBA draft.

The 6-foot-11 Slokar played for Italy's Benetton Treviso the past three seasons and participated in the Raptors' entries in two summer leagues in 2005. </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Nets Acquire Mikki Moore From Seattle</TD></TR><TR><TD>27th July, 2006 - 3:01 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>Press Release - The New Jersey Nets have acquired center Mikki Moore from the Seattle SuperSonics for a second round draft pick in 2009, Nets President Rod Thorn announced today.

“We are pleased to add Mikki to our roster,” said Thorn. “He is a veteran presence who will add depth to our frontcourt rotation.”

The 7-0 Moore has career marks of 4.5 points and 3.1 rebounds in 303 games. Last season, he appeared in 47 games for Seattle, averaging 3.3 points and 2.8 rebounds. The eight-year veteran has played for seven NBA teams (Detroit, Boston, Atlanta, New Jersey, Utah, Los Angeles Clippers and Seattle).</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Magic Re-Sign Ariza</TD></TR><TR><TD>27th July, 2006 - 1:23 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>NBA.com - The Orlando Magic have re-signed restricted free agent forward Trevor Ariza, General Manager Otis Smith announced today. Per team policy, terms of the deal are not disclosed.

Ariza (6’8”, 200, 6/30/85) played in 57 games with both the Magic and New York last season, averaging 4.6 ppg., 3.8 rpg., 1.1 apg. and 1.00 stlpg. in 17.5 minpg. He was traded to Orlando by the Knicks on Feb. 22, 2006, along with the expiring contract of Anfernee Hardaway, in exchange for Steve Francis. During 21 games with Orlando, Ariza averaged 4.7 ppg. and 3.9 rpg. in 13.8 minpg.

“We are very pleased to bring Trevor back, as he is a key part of our young core,” General Manager Otis Smith said. “His athleticism and explosiveness will be a great asset to our team on both ends of the floor.” </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

Suns signing Sean Marks is not a good sign for Cavs fans...

[Bob Saccamano]

http://www.realgm.com/

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Knicks Sign Jeffries to Offer Sheet</TD></TR><TR><TD>28th July, 2006 - 9:01 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>Washington Post - According to the Washington Post, league sources have confirmed that the New York Knicks have signed restricted free agent, Jared Jeffries, to an offer sheet this afternoon. Terms of the offer sheet were not immediately available, but the Knicks had their full Mid Level Exception still available meaning they could have offered Jeffries an offer sheet of up to 5 years for $30,247,000.

The Wizards will have 7 days to either match the Knicks' offer sheet or let the 11th pick in the 2002 NBA Draft become Isiah's highest profile move so far this offseason. </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Milwaukee, Portland Discussing Magloire Deal</TD></TR><TR><TD>28th July, 2006 - 10:17 am</TD></TR><TR><TD>FAN 1080 - Ian Furness, a host for Portland's FAN 1080 is reporting a proposed deal where the Blazers would send Steve Blake, Brian Skinner and Ha Seung-Jin to Milwaukee for Jamaal Magloire.

RealGM.com will keep you updates as these trade talks progress.</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Rockets Re-Sign Lucas III</TD></TR><TR><TD>28th July, 2006 - 11:25 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>AP - The Rockets signed free agent guard John Lucas III to a multiyear contract on Friday after waiving him in January.

The 5-foot-11 Lucas originally signed with Houston on Dec. 29. He was waived on January 4, then signed two 10-day contracts before he was released on January 28.</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Luke Walton To Appear On CBS Soap</TD></TR><TR><TD>28th July, 2006 - 6:37 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>Associated Press - Los Angeles Lakers forward Luke Walton is taking another page out of his dad's playbook.

Luke recently taped his acting debut on the CBS soap opera "The Young and the Restless," in which he plays a game of one-on-one basketball with actor Kristoff St. John. The episode will air Aug. 30.</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Nuggets Sign Jamal Sampson</TD></TR><TR><TD>28th July, 2006 - 4:47 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>Yahoo.com - The Nuggets on Friday signed forward-center Jamal Sampson.

Terms of the deal were not released, but Sampson did make $745,248 as a member of the Kings this past season.

The 6-11 Sampson appeared in just 12 games in his only season with the Kings, averaging 0.8 points and 1.5 rebounds in 3.2 minutes.</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Pacers Sign Baston</TD></TR><TR><TD>28th July, 2006 - 2:58 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>Press Relase - The Indiana Pacers announced Friday they have signed free agent Maceo Baston. Per club policy, terms of the contract were not disclosed.

Baston, a 6-9, 215-pound forward, spent the last three seasons in Israel playing for Maccabi Elite Tel Aviv, averaging 13.3 points and 6.5 rebounds per game. Prior to playing in Israel, he played 16 games for the Toronto Raptors in 2003, where he averaged 2.5 ppg and 1.4 rpg in 16 games.</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Bobcats Re-Sign Bernard Robinson</TD></TR><TR><TD>28th July, 2006 - 12:45 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>NBA.com - The Bobcats have re-signed Bernard Robinson, their second round pick in 2004.

“Bernard has been a good fit for our team over our first two seasons and his versatility on both ends of the court allows him to help us in several ways,“ Bobcats General Manager and Head Coach Bernie Bickerstaff said. “We look for him to further develop his game and continue to be a quality team player on and off the court.” </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

[Bob Saccamano]

http://www.realgm.com/

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Bucks And Blazers Reach Agreement</TD></TR><TR><TD>29th July, 2006 - 7:37 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>Journal Times - The Bucks have verbally agreed to deal the veteran center to the Portland Trail Blazers for guard Steve Blake, forward Brian Skinner and center Ha Seung-Jin, according to Gery Woelfel of the Journal Times.

The deal won't be announced until all players pass physicals and the trade is officially approved by the league offices.

The trade has been discussed for several weeks because Portland was reluctant to give up Blake, who started 57 games for them last season, his first in Portland. </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Martin Works Out At Pepsi Center But Remains On The Block</TD></TR><TR><TD>29th July, 2006 - 1:22 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>Rocky Mountain News - According to multiple team sources who spoke with the Rocky Mountain News, Kenyon Martin took part in pickup games with Carmelo Anthony and other teammates earlier this month at the Pepsi Center

Martin remains on the trading block after being suspended for insubordination during the playoffs.</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Rytas Vilnius, Maccabi Tel-Aviv Chasing Ron Mercer?</TD></TR><TR><TD>29th July, 2006 - 1:36 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>Eurobasket - Are Ron Mercer's days in the NBA over?

According to Eurobasket, Lithuantian team Rytas Vilnius are chasing Mercer to help strengthen their team, but they are not alone in their pursuit of the guard's services.

The piece also indicates that Maccabi Tel-Aviv are also interested in Mercer to replace the loss of Anthony Parker, who recently signed a contract with the Toronto Raptors .

Mercer sat out last season due to injury after being waived by the New Jersey Nets as their amnesty waiver.</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Wizards Will Be At Luxury Tax Threshold If They Match Jeffries' Offer</TD></TR><TR><TD>29th July, 2006 - 1:12 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>New York Daily News - Sources indicated the Wizards might be prevented from matching the Knicks' offer to Jared Jeffries because the contract would place them right at the luxury tax threshold.

The New York Times reports though that all indications are that the Wizards intend to match the offer.</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Warriors Getting In On Magloire</TD></TR><TR><TD>29th July, 2006 - 1:07 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>Journal Times - According to a source that spoke with Gery Woelfel this week, the Warriors are still in the picture for Jamaal Magloire. Golden State attempted to acquire Magloire before he was dealt to Milwaukee by the Hornets.

The Bucks are reportedly interested in Troy Murphy but have reservations about his pricey contract.</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Clippers Close To Signing Aaron Williams</TD></TR><TR><TD>29th July, 2006 - 6:26 am</TD></TR><TR><TD>L.A. Times - Looking for depth along their front line, the Los Angeles Clippers are expected to sign 12-year veteran Aaron Williams to a two-year, $3.54-million deal, pending a physical examination this weekend, the Los Angeles Times is reporting.

"We're close to agreement," Mark Bartlestein, Williams' agent, said from his Chicago office Friday.

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Rockets Re-Sign Lucas III</TD></TR><TR><TD>28th July, 2006 - 11:25 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>AP - The Rockets signed free agent guard John Lucas III to a multiyear contract on Friday after waiving him in January.

The 5-foot-11 Lucas originally signed with Houston on Dec. 29. He was waived on January 4, then signed two 10-day contracts before he was released on January 28.</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

[Bob Saccamano]

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Bucks Officially Deal Magloire To Portland</TD></TR><TR><TD>31st July, 2006 - 3:45 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>ESPN - Jamaal Magliore is now officially the newest member of the Portland Trail Blazers .

The Blazers on Monday acquired Magloire from the Milwaukee Bucks for point guard Steve Blake, forward Brian Skinner and 7-foot-3 center Ha Seung-Jin.

Magloire, 28, has one year left on his contract worth $8.3 million and was deemed expendable when the Bucks decided to move 7-footer Andrew Bogut to center. Last October, Milwaukee acquired Magloire from the New Orleans Hornets and used Bogut, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2005 draft, at power forward.

In Portland, the 6-11 Magloire will likely split time in the middle with Joel Przybilla, who was recently re-signed to a five-year contract.

"Jamaal is a talented, big body that will give us options in our frontcourt and help us be more competitive against the Western Conference big men," Trail Blazers coach Nate McMillan said. "He will be a strong addition to our ballclub and hopefully help us win more games."

"We are very excited to bring someone of Jamaal's stature to our organization," Trail Blazers president Steve Patterson said. "He made the All-Star team just two short years ago and was a big part of Milwaukee gaining a playoff spot in the East this past season. He's an excellent rebounder who gives up depth and talent up front, and you can never have too many quality bigs in the NBA."

The Bucks were shopping for a point guard after trading starter T.J. Ford to Toronto for forward Charlie Villanueva earlier in the month. Blake would likely serve as a backup to Mo Williams and allow Charlie Bell to play more time at shooting guard behind All-Star Michael Redd.

"In Steve Blake, we added a talented point guard who had one of the best assist-to-turnover ratios in the league last season," Bucks general manager Larry Harris said. "Brian was a solid contributor to our team two years ago and, along with Ha Seung-Jin, will give us added size up front."


</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Hawks Deliver Stipulations For Pacers If They Want Harrington</TD></TR><TR><TD>31st July, 2006 - 12:32 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>ESPN.com - The rumored sign-and-trade deal between the Hawks and Pacers involving Al Harrington is becoming more clear as Atlanta has laid out their demands.

According to sources, the Hawks want the Pacers to part with a future first-round pick, absorb the contract of third-year center John Edwards and kick in $3 million in cash considerations, which is the maximum amount any team can add to a trade.

It's believed that the Pacers want to either scale back the quality of the draft pick or reduce the cash contribution, which is the reason that the trade has yet to be completed.

Industry sources say no one else but the Pacers are presently chasing Harrington, as officials from around the league see his return to Indiana as an inevitability.

Atlanta is expected to sign Harrington to a six-year contract worth nearly $57 million and send him to Indiana. Separate trade exceptions to add Harrington and Edwards to their payroll, without shipping any players to the Hawks, would then enable the Pacers to complete the exchange.


</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Hawks To Kick Off Season In Philadelphia</TD></TR><TR><TD>31st July, 2006 - 8:32 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>Atlanta Journal-Constitution - The NBA schedule is not set to be released until Tuesday, but the Atlanta Journal-Constitution is giving Hawks' fans a sneak peak at how their 2006-07 season schedule will look.

In their first five games of the season the Hawks will face 76ers star Allen Iverson on November 1, New York under Isiah Thomas in their home opener Nov. 3, Atlanta native Dwight Howard and Orlando at home Nov. 5, LeBron James in Cleveland on Nov. 7 and former Georgia Tech star Chris Bosh in Toronto on Nov. 10.

NBA champion Miami will come to Philips Arena on Nov. 18 for a Saturday night game. The Hawks won't face defending Western Conference champion Dallas until after the All-Star break, Feb. 26 in Dallas.

</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Atkins Re-Signs With Memphis</TD></TR><TR><TD>31st July, 2006 - 8:28 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>Sports Illustrated - The Memphis Grizzlies signed guard Chucky Atkins for another year, the team announced Monday. Terms were not disclosed.

He came to Memphis in January from the Washington Wizards . With the Grizzlies he averaged 11.4 points, 1.7 rebounds and three assists in 43 games.

"Having him and Damon Stoudamire as experienced point guards who can mentor our younger players is invaluable to this team," team president Jerry West said in a statement.

</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Miami's Williams Undergoes Successful Surgery</TD></TR><TR><TD>31st July, 2006 - 8:21 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>Press Release - The Miami Heat announced today that guard Jason Williams underwent successful surgery to repair a partial tear of his right patella tendon which caused him to miss 18 games this past season.

The 60-minute surgery was performed by HEAT team physician Dr. Harlan Selesnick on July 21 at Baptist Doctors’ Hospital.

After being examined today by Dr. Selesnick, Williams has been cleared to begin the rehabilitation process. There is currently no timetable for his return to the court.

</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Dirk Names USA "The Team To Beat"</TD></TR><TR><TD>31st July, 2006 - 6:00 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>Yahoo.com - German superstar Dirk Nowitzki has labelled the United States "the team to beat" in the forthcoming FIBA World Championship in Japan.

The versatile 7-foot Mavericks forward feels the Americans' depth is their best asset, and backs them to cope even with the absence of Kobe Bryant from their squad.

"The Americans are the favorites," Nowitzki said following Germany's 95-75 win over Canada in a warmup game on Sunday. "They are really stacked. The only guy they don't have is Kobe. But they still have Dwyane Wade and LeBron (James) and plenty of other guys.


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<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Chicago Signs Adrian Griffin</TD></TR><TR><TD>31st July, 2006 - 4:19 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>Press Release - The Chicago Bulls announced today the team has signed free agent guard/forward Adrian Griffin to a contract. Per team policy, terms of the contract were not disclosed.

"We are extremely pleased to have Adrian back. We missed his presence last season and it will be great to have him on board with us again,” said Bulls Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations John Paxson. “He played well for Dallas last season and we believe he fits the direction we are heading as a team. He is also a proven leader and competitor and will be a key component of our roster.”


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<TABLE cellSpacing=8 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=wiretap_key_header>Bobcats Sign Second Rounder Hollins</TD></TR><TR><TD>31st July, 2006 - 3:50 pm</TD></TR><TR><TD>The Charlotte Observer - The Charlotte Bobcats signed center Ryan Hollins, the team's second-round draft pick in the 2006 NBA Draft.

Hollins, a starter on UCLA's NCAA Final Four team this past season, was the 50th overall selection.

"Ryan Hollins is a terrific athlete for a seven-footer and he is an intelligent player who works hard. He will have an opportunity to earn playing time with our team as he continues to develop," Bobcats General Manager & Head Coach Bernie Bickerstaff said. "We are fortunate to get a player with his size and athleticism with the 50th pick."

"I have waited for this day to come for a long time. I am thrilled to be joining a first-class organization and to have the opportunity to be a part of something special," Hollins said. "This is a really talented team with a great coaching staff and I look forward to being a part of the Charlotte community and getting to know the fans."


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[exhawg]

This change also would have given the Cavs the 3 seed in the East so they wouldn't have had to face the Pistons until the third round of the playoffs. Of course that means that they would have had to play the NBA champion Heat in the second round so who knows if they would have done any better. IMHO the Cavs matched up better with the Heat than they did with the Pistons.

NBA changes seeding format for playoffs
By BRIAN MAHONEY, AP Basketball Writer
August 2, 2006

The NBA is changing the way teams are seeded in the postseason, looking to avoid the controversy that surrounded last season's playoffs.

Starting in the upcoming season, the top four seeds -- the three division winners and the second-place team with the best record -- will be seeded according to their win-loss total, guaranteeing that the top two teams in each conference can't meet until the conference finals, the league announced Wednesday.

The NBA had given the top three seeds to division winners regardless of record, meaning a second-place team could not do better than the No. 4 seed, even if it had a better record than a division champion.

That rule came under fire last season when division rivals San Antonio and Dallas were forced to meet in the second round of the Western Conference playoffs, even though the second-place Mavericks had a far better record than division champions Phoenix or Denver.

Dallas knocked off the first-place Spurs in a thrilling matchup of 60-game winners, capturing Game 7 on the road in overtime.

The league's board of governors also voted to expand the postseason rosters to 15, instead of 13, with 12 players active for each game. That duplicates the rule used in the regular season.

The NBA champion Miami Heat were among those that criticized the policy that forced teams to carry fewer players in the playoffs than during the season.

Also, if a team has two 60-second timeouts left in the final 2 minutes of regulation or in overtime, one will be reduced to a 20-second timeout. Teams will now have two 60-second timeouts and one lasting 20 seconds in overtime, instead of three 1-minute timeouts. Clubs will no longer be permitted to carry over a 20-second timeout from regulation into overtime.

"Our owners are intent on making the playoff seeding more fair for all teams going forward and in quickening the pace of the end of games," NBA executive vice president Stu Jackson said in a statement. "The board also thought it made sense to allow teams to utilize the same 15-man roster in the playoffs that they use during the regular season."