Newz Forum: BASKETBALL: NBA Rumors and News 16/08/04

Payton doesn't want to be a Celtic
Boston Herald

Although Gary Payton said this weekend that he would rather "quit" than play in Boston, his agent told the Herald's Mark Murphy that his client still hasn't decided if he will join the Celtics. Payton would prefer to play for the Timberwolves, Clippers or Rockets.

Yao reaches breaking point
Houston Chronicle

Pau Gasol smashed into Yao, with both crashing to the floor. Yao was called for his fifth foul and leaped to his feet, marching angrily toward the official before stomping off the court and throwing himself into the bench with a show of anger he has rarely demonstrated with the Rockets or Chinese national team.

Isiah takes last shot at Dampier
New York Daily News

Their chances are considered slim, if not none, but the Knicks could find out as soon as today if Erick Dampier is going to wind up as their starting center for next season... One person with knowledge of the trade talks said last night that Memphis is out of the running, adding, 'We all expect Dampier to go to Atlanta. They've got more money than anybody else.' ...While Thomas keeps his fingers crossed on Dampier, the Knicks are almost certain to re-sign Vin Baker this week.

Williams a tough call for O'Connor, Jazz
Salt Lake Tribune

Should he stay or go? The case for matching the Bucks' offer to keep Mo Wiliams: l He's only 21 and should keep improving.

Curry on Grizzlies' radar
Chicago Tribune

According to the Memphis Commercial Appeal, the Grizzlies have inquired about Curry but aren't willing to send Bonzi Wells and Stromile Swift to the Bulls as proposed. According to a league source, three other teams have presented the Bulls with offers for Curry, but Bulls general manager John Paxson remains somewhat hesitant.

Stojakovic skipped out on the Olympics, but won't cop out on the Kings
San Antonio Express-News

Trust this, though: Stojakovic will be firing up that flick-of-the-wrist jumper in purple and black Kings garb once again, just as Carter is going to open the season in Toronto, and Allen in Seattle. Players can make all the demands they want, but if they want to get paid, the teams that have their rights can make demands of their own: Give us your best effort, as always.

Rumors and News sources

Fox Sports

Pro Sports Daily

Payton doesn't want to be a Celtic

Can you blame him? They haven't been making the moves to make them legitimate contenders. That's what he's looking for at this point in his career. I'd love it if he ends up in minnesota, except for the fact that they'd have to give up on Cassell...

Williams a tough call for O'Connor, Jazz

Keep him, keep him, keep him. Weve got a quality young team here, another playoff run of 20+ years is not out of the question...