NBA Rumors: Heat, Klay Thompson, Pistons, Cade Cunningham, Grizzlies

Heat

The Heat’s reported interest in Klay Thompson isn’t just about adding another recognizable name.

According to Anthony Chiang of the Miami Herald, Miami views Thompson as the type of floor spacer who would complement Giannis Antetokounmpo and Bam Adebayo, giving defenses another shooter to worry about.

Actually getting him is another matter.

Chiang suggested the Heat are willing to wait to see if Thompson eventually reaches a buyout agreement with the Mavericks. If that happens, Miami could use part of its non-taxpayer mid-level exception to bring him aboard.

That said, patience appears to be the plan.

Pistons

The Pistons may not have landed a marquee name this offseason, but they certainly took some big swings.

Appearing on ESPN’s NBA Today, Vincent Goodwill reported Cade Cunningham played an active role in recruiting several stars, including Austin Reaves, Kevin Durant, Kawhi Leonard and Kyrie Irving.

None of those pursuits paid off. Still, it offers another glimpse into Detroit’s aggressive approach after last season’s breakthrough.

The Pistons’ attention now shifts to taking care of their own, with restricted free agent Jalen Duren and extension candidate Ausar Thompson remaining atop the offseason to-do list.

Grizzlies

Kentavious Caldwell-Pope’s departure appears to have worked out for everyone involved.

Damichael Cole of the Memphis Commercial Appeal wrote that Caldwell-Pope wanted another opportunity to chase a championship, while the Grizzlies needed to clear a crowded wing rotation.

The veteran ultimately landed with the 76ers after agreeing to a buyout with Memphis, giving him another shot at competing for a title while opening additional minutes for the Grizzlies’ younger players.