NBA Rumors: OKC Thunder Pursuing Danny Granger; Miami Heat, San Antonio Spurs Also in Mix
The Oklahoma City Thunder are emerging as another possible landing spot for former All-Star small forward Danny Granger, who will reportedly be bought out of his contract after the Indiana Pacers traded him to the Philadelphia 76ers last week.
The Thunder might still be looking to add firepower to their lineup despite their inactivity before last week's trade deadline. According to source, the Miami Heat and the San Antonio Spurs are the most favorable destination for Granger, but the Thunder might be a darkhorse in the Granger sweepstakes.
The 30-year old Granger was averaging 8.3 points and 3.6 rebounds per game for the Pacers before he was traded to the Sixers in exchange for Evan Turner and Lavoy Allen. Sources indicated Granger is planning to play for a contender, not a rebuilding team like the Sixers.
On Monday, the Granger and the Sixers have reportedly agreed in principle for a buyout, allowing the small forward to become an unrestricted free agent at this point of season.
"Danny Granger rumors have the Philadelphia 76ers approaching a buyout decision. The 76ers didn't trade for Granger to play him and rumors have surfaced that several teams would be interested in signing him should he reach free agency," via the Examiner.
"According to a report from NBC Sports on Monday (Feb. 24), the team and the agent of their newly acquired player are working on a buyout number that would take him off the roster. He would immediately be able to sign with any team other than Philadelphia and the Indiana Pacers," the site added.
Thunder, Spurs and Heat looking for depth
The San Antonio Spurs have expressed their desire to sign Granger, while the Heat remains the top team in the Eastern Conference to get the forward. However, the Thunder are reportedly interested in getting the service of Granger, who could give star forward Kevin Durant some breather in the postseason.
"For Danny's destination, the Jakes are hearing the Miami Heat is likely, New York probably not, San Antonio might be, and OKC is a chance also," SB Nation reported.
"But Granger clearly does not want to be in Philly and is expected to push for his release to try to work his way to Miami, OKC, SA, etc," ESPN Marc Stein stated.