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Free Agents around the league can now officially sign with their new teams, and at this point, the remaining pool of available players is pretty shallow.
However, NBA teams will start to look towards trades over the coming weeks, and a number of major moves could still be in the works. So, with plenty going on around the NBA, here is all the latest news and rumors you need to know for Monday, July 8th.
Trio of playoff contenders interested in Russell Westbrook
Russell Westbrook has spent his entire career with the Oklahoma City Thunder, although following the surprise departure of Paul George, the organization may be willing to part with their star man.
In terms of a destination, The Athletic is reporting that the Detroit Pistons and Miami Heat are among the potential trade partners for the Thunder.
The report states that the sheer amount of money owed to Westbrook has scared off many potential suitors. However, the Heat and the Pistons remain realistic landing spots for the 30-year-old.
Meanwhile, Tim MacMahon of ESPN is reporting that Westbrook is also attracting from within the Western Conference, with the Houston Rockets keen to pull off an unlikely deal:
The Houston Rockets are among the teams interested in trading for Oklahoma City All-Star point guard Russell Westbrook... One Rockets source, however, described trading for Westbrook as a "long shot" due to the challenge of finding pieces that fit with the Thunder
Westbrook has averaged a triple-double in each of the past three seasons and still has four years remaining on the supermax deal he signed back in 2017.
Kevin Durant will wear No. 7 with the Nets
Kevin Durant has worn No.35 during his twelve years in the NBA, although following his move to the Brooklyn Nets, the former MVP has opted to change to No.7.
The All-Star made the announcement on social media, highlighting the impact that the No. 35 has had on his lengthy career in the NBA. But, Durant emphasized that a number change was necessary as he looks to start 'a new chapter' in Brooklyn.
Durant has spent the past three seasons with the Golden State Warriors, winning two titles. However, the 2014 MVP has often been criticized for joining the NBA's best team, and Durant's move to the Nets will allow him to change the narrative about his career.
Durant agreed to a four-year contract worth $164 million and will be joined in Brooklyn by Kyrie Irving and DeAndre Jordan.
Jabari Parker could return to the Wizards
Jabari Parker is one of the most notable names left on the free agent market, and during an interview with Khobi Price of The Chicago Tribune, Parker revealed that he would be keen on a return to the Washington Wizards:
Man, my time in Washington was everything and more. It was like being in jail for a couple of months, and then when you’re free, you just want to be yourself again and catch up on lost times. Those guys in Washington are always going to be on the top of my list as far as my loyalty goes.
Parker joined the Chicago Bulls last summer, although a move to his hometown didn't work out for the 24-year-old. Parker was subsequently traded to the Wizards and made 25 appearances, averaging 15.0 points and 7.2 rebounds per game.
