NBA Rumors: Draft, Clippers, Thunder, Cameron Boozer, Mavericks, Kings

The Clippers could become one of the more interesting teams to watch on draft night.

According to Kevin O’Connor of Yahoo Sports, there is an expectation around the league that Los Angeles will listen to trade-down offers involving the No. 5 overall pick.

The Clippers currently control the highest selection outside the widely projected top tier of prospects, making them a potential target for teams hoping to move up the board.

That naturally has fueled speculation about several possible suitors.

Thunder remain wild card

One team frequently mentioned in draft discussions is Oklahoma City.

The Thunder own picks No. 12 and No. 17 and have one of the league’s deepest collections of future draft assets.

O’Connor floated the possibility of Oklahoma City attempting to move into the top five, potentially with an eye toward eventually making a larger push up the board.

He also speculated about whether Chet Holmgren could become part of a blockbuster scenario, though there has been no indication the Thunder are actively shopping the former All-Star.

League observers continue to view Oklahoma City as one of the few teams capable of making a massive draft-night move if it chooses.

Whether the Thunder actually want to do so remains another question.

Boozer drawing mixed evaluations

Former Duke star Cameron Boozer remains one of the draft’s most intriguing prospects.

One NBA general manager told Jeff Goodman of Field of 68 that Boozer may not project as a franchise cornerstone but should still become a highly effective NBA player.

“I don’t think he’s a franchise player, but I also know exactly what I’m getting with him,” the executive said.

The same evaluator suggested AJ Dybantsa and Darryn Peterson may possess higher superstar upside.

Mavericks, Kings linked to Acuff

Meanwhile, Arkansas guard Darius Acuff continues to generate interest.

According to Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints, the Mavericks are exploring potential pathways to move up for Acuff, who is widely projected to be selected inside the top seven.

The Kings, who own the seventh overall pick, have also been linked to Acuff and are viewed by some as the floor for his draft range.

Sacramento has reportedly also been impressed by Houston guard Kingston Flemings as the draft draws closer.

With just weeks remaining until draft night, movement around the board appears increasingly likely.