Call off Karl Malone’s boycott of Jazz training camp. Sources say Utah’s walking contradiction has agreed to a four-year extension (plus an option) with owner Larry Miller for an average of $16.5 million.
Meaning the NBA’s premier power forward, 36, is guaranteed to finish his career in Salt Lake City, if he doesn’t demand a trade the next time he opens his mouth.
Sources also reveal that the Celtics and Antoine Walker have come to terms on a six-year extension for the $84M maximum. Take that, Jerry Krause! The Bulls GM was observed praying to the statute in front of the United Center that Boston owner Paul Gaston wouldn’t go the vault for the Chicago native.
Why hasn’t Tom Gugliotta accepted the Timberwolves’ maximum-allowed offer that’s been on the table for a good week?
Agent Richard Howell swears to VP Kevin McHale his client has nothing against Stephon Marbury, contrary to what I’m told. Swears he’s not angling to wind up a Laker, contrary to what I’m told. And swears there’s nothing going on with any other team, contrary to what I’m told.
Again, so why hasn’t Gugliotta re-signed for more money than is available anywhere else? People in the know claim he’s simply biding his time to see whether Antonio McDyess returns to Phoenix, or prefers the snow, shaky organization and lack of competitiveness that Denver has to offer.
Just in case Gugliotta gets shut out in Phoenix and wants to become a Laker, after all, the T’Wolves are not the least enthused with L.A.’s offer: Elden Campbell, Eddie Jones and Sean Rooks in return for Guggs, Anthony Peeler and Paul Grant. If the Suns get shut out by both McDyess and Gugliotta, their only option is to move from America West back to Veterans Memorial Coliseum.
Because of Ike Austin’s friendship with Penny Hardaway and his desire to live in Florida, the Magic have a shot at signing him for well below ($4M to start) his asking price of $9M per. If they don’t get a center, management has decided to lock itself out for the remainder of the season.
Look for the 76ers to sign Harvey Grant to a $1M veteran exception. … The Blazers were prepared to pay Scottie Pippen $80M for six seasons if the Bulls would agree to sign and exchange him for Brian Grant, Stacey Augmon and Kelvin Cato. … Contrary to reports, the Knicks have no interest in Dennis Rodman. … Pistons are ready to sign Christian Laettner (cleared to start practicing on his torn Achilles come the middle of March) if they’re unable to get McDyess or Gugliotta.
No wonder Rod Strickland is outraged. The Wizards, say sources, only offered him $14M per for three years. Washington refuses to sign and trade devalued playmaker. Owner Abe Pollin told David Falk, “If you don’t like it, go find a team with more cap room.” … Bulls will get Martin Murecepp, Bubba Wells and Mark Bryant from the Suns for signing Luc Longley and forwarding him to Phoenix.
Sonics gave Dale Ellis, 39, four-year guarantee for $6M. … Celtics and Raptors are still in hunt for Michael Stewart. Meanwhile, Rick Pitino gave Duane Schintzius (out of the league last year) a one-year guarantee. Makes you want to go shoot your parents for not marrying someone taller.