The offseason doesn't officially open for two weeks but NBA rumors are flying, including about Zion Williamson, Chris Paul and Dillon Brooks.
NBA rumors: Pelicans part ways with Zion's favorite assistant coach
According to Shams Charania, the Pelicans are parting ways with Teresa Weatherspoon. Weatherspoon and Zion Williamson were very close and have been good friends for years. As Charania states, Williamson had developed a very strong relationship with Weatherspoon and had been a big piece of keeping him happy in New Orleans.
This is a small sign that the relationship between the Pelicans and Zion is getting worse, quickly. Williamson hasn't been able to be healthy during his time with New Orleans and rumors are increasing about them quietly shopping Williamson this offseason.
Reporters have said that the Pelicans and Williamson are not in direct contact during the offseason and he has not been around the team. To be fair, this is something Williamson has done every offseason and it is not a new development. Still, a Williamson trade seems increasingly likely.
NBA rumors: Brooks may end up with Houston
It seems like Dillon Brooks may have a found spot where he can land after flaming out in Memphis. According to Adrian Wojnarowski, the Rockets may be targeting Brooks this offseason. In terms of actual play on the court, Brooks is one of the better free agents out there. But he brings more than just his play — creating conflict with physical fouls and wild statements.
A place like Houston might be a perfect spot for the player if the Rockets flame out on James Harden and other marquee-free agents. There are enough other talented young players that he his worst offensive tendencies would be limited and he'd be far from the center of attention, something that is probably a good sign at this point.
Brooks is also an aggressive, physical defender, something the Rockets really need to help show their young players what it takes to compete for a playoff spot.
NBA rumors: Chris Paul wants to stay in Phoenix
As stated by the Duane Rankin of The Arizona Republic, Chris Paul wants to stay in Phoenix. The Suns are reportedly considering waiving Paul's contract before it becomes guaranteed, as well as a possible trade. If they stretch and waive the contract it would create a mid-level exception they could use to add another player. Still, it seems like there is a chance that Paul stays after being cut. He could be signed on a mini-contract, but only if the Suns cut him without stretching him.
Paul will most likely take meetings with other teams but it seems like Phoenix has a good shot to keep the player if they cut him. It was reported by Chris Haynes that the Suns were waiving Paul but later clarified the decision wasn't finalized.
As Haynes said, Paul believes that he has multiple years left in the league and wants to go to a contender. There is a small chance that the Suns could trade Paul for role players. A team could treat Paul like an expiring contract after this season due to the way his contract is structured.
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