The Cleveland Cavaliers and Philadelphia 76ers have each shown interest in bringing back veteran forward Marcus Morris, per Keith Pompey of the Philadelphia Inquirer.
Others who have displayed at least some interest include the Charlotte Hornets, Detroit Pistons, Miami Heat, New Orleans Pelicans, and Minnesota Timberwolves, Pompey noted.
Cleveland and Philadelphia are considered the frontrunners to land Morris. Sources told Pompey that the Cavs are prepared to offer Morris nearly twice the veteran’s minimum. The Sixers, it seems, are willing to offer only the veteran’s minimum — but there’s a sense Morris could return to his hometown of Philadelphia.
Morris, 34, is 6-foot-8 and finished last season with the Cavaliers after being released by the Sixers. For both teams, he proved to be a valuable, scrappy and determined veteran off the bench, all while playing fluctuating minutes.
The Cavs are among three teams that have yet to sign an outside free agent this summer (joining the Los Angeles Lakers and Boston Celtics).
Overall, Morris appeared in 49 games last season, averaging 6.4 points and 2.7 rebounds, shooting 43.9% from the field and 40.3% on 3-pointers. He played in 12 regular-season games with the Cavs and averaged 5.8 points and 2.1 rebounds.
The Cavaliers are still in talks with restricted free agent Isaac Okoro while signing Donovan Mitchell, Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen to contract extensions. They continue to look for help around the edges of the roster. They also hired Kenny Atkinson as coach.
Meanwhile, the Sixers have already added Paul George, Caleb Martin, Andre Drummond and Eric Gordon as veteran free agents. Morris could find a tougher time getting minutes in Philly than in Cleveland.
Looking for the latest NBA Insider News & Rumors?
Be sure to follow Hoops Wire on TWITTER and FACEBOOK for breaking NBA News and Rumors for all 30 teams!
