Andrew Bogut is set to hit the free agent market in search of a team that could win him another NBA championship, after reportedly being traded from the Dallas Mavericks to the Philadelphia 76ers.
The Cleveland Cavaliers, San Antonio Spurs, Houston Rockets and Boston Celtics are expected to be in the hunt to sign the Australian.
Bogut has reportedly been shipped to the 76ers in a multi-player deal, just before the end of Thursday’s trade deadline.
Australian rookie Ben Simmons and former NBL and Boomers coach Brett Brown are also at the struggling 76ers.
Bogut, perhaps with just a few years left to play in the NBA and keen to add another title ring to his resume, reportedly was not keen to stay and indicated he wanted to be a free agent.
The 76ers unsuccessfully tried to trade Bogut so they began contract buyout discussions.
“With no second trade looming for Andrew Bogut, league sources say Bogut and the Sixers will immediately begin contract buyout discussions,” ESPN’s Marc Stein reported.
Bogut, 32, is in the final year of a three-year $US36 million contract.
The reigning champion Cavaliers, who know Bogut’s hard-nosed game well after battling him and the Golden State Warriors in the past two NBA finals series, are reportedly interested in signing him.
Bogut would likely play back-up centre to the Cavs’ Tristan Thompson.
If the Spurs sign Bogut he would join his Boomers team-mate Patty Mills.
The Boston Celtics are also believed to be keen to add Bogut’s size and leadership.
Houston, with its run and gun style, might not be a good match for the aged Australian.
Bogut did not hide his love for the San Francisco Bay area so likely would not mind returning to the Warriors where he helped the star-studded team win the 2014-15 NBA title.
Bogut was shipped from the Warriors to the Mavericks in last year’s off-season to make way for the Warriors to sign eight-time All-Star Kevin Durant, but it proved to be a bad fit for Bogut in Dallas.
He has been dogged by injuries in Dallas and only played four games since January 9.
RBBAnnonymous
Guest
Cleveland or GSW would actually be a pretty good fit if they can make that happen. Bogut brings good size in the middle and is a more than decent rim protector. He also is an excellent passer of the ball for a big and would be very handy in finding those open 3 point shooters. Nice to know your wanted. He should be able to pick up a decent contract.
Sam Walker
Roar Guru
Yeah i doubt he goes back, Cleveland or Houston are apparently close to front runners with the Celtics not far behind, I think the Celtics should take a look at Terrence Jones who New Orleans just bought out. He might be able to put a fair bit more into a game than Bogut could.
KingCowboy
Guest
that would be beyond weak if he went there. Hopefully he comes to the Celtics!!
Sam Walker
Roar Guru
Bogut will be bought out shortly. Golden State may actually sign him up if they wish.
Swampy
Guest
The Sixers should trade for Delly, Exum, Ingles and Baynes haha