NBA Notes: Russell Westbrook, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Grizzlies, refs

Russell Westbrook remains unsigned with opening night just over a week away, but he’s not eyeing an overseas detour.

According to Marc Stein of The Stein Line, there have been “zero discussions” about the former MVP continuing his career outside the NBA.

Reports over the weekend indicated “strong mutual interest” between Westbrook and the Kings, who are searching for a veteran reserve guard. The 36-year-old is said to be focused solely on landing his next NBA opportunity — even if it comes later in the season.

Giannis’ Knicks ties keep growing: Giannis Antetokounmpo’s rumored interest in the Knicks — if he ever decides to move on from Milwaukee — is being viewed as a win in New York.

As Newsday’s Steve Popper put it, it’s a sign the franchise’s image has changed under team president Leon Rose, who has helped rebuild the Knicks’ credibility around the league.

Meanwhile, the New York Post’s Stefan Bondy laid out a few hypothetical trade scenarios, though any deal involving the Bucks star remains purely speculative at this stage.

Grizzlies add Brown, waive Burton: The Grizzlies have signed veteran guard Charlie Brown Jr. and waived forward Tyler Burton, the team announced.

Brown, 28, has played for five NBA teams since 2019 and spent last season with Raptors 905 in the G League, where he averaged 12.5 points and tied a league record with nine steals in a game.

Memphis already has 15 guaranteed contracts, so Brown is likely headed for the G League’s Memphis Hustle on an Exhibit 10 deal that could pay him a bonus of up to $85,300.

Burton, who played college ball at Richmond and Villanova, will likely rejoin the Hustle after averaging 2.5 points in limited minutes last season.

Quick Hit: NBA referees have been testing earpieces during the preseason to improve on-court communication. Per Stein, the devices could become standard issue once the regular season tips off.