While the buyout market has not been as robust as expected around the league, there could be a rush with a few more in the coming days — guys need to be bought out and clear waivers by March 1 to be eligible to join another team’s playoff roster.
One guy who it looks like will be available: Corey Brewer. Via Marc Stein of the New York Times.
Veteran swingman Corey Brewer is in advanced negotiations toward securing a buyout from the Lakers to become a free agent, league sources say
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) February 28, 2018
A buyout must be completed with the Lakers by Thursday -- March 1 -- to make Corey Brewer playoff-eligible this season with another team
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) February 28, 2018
Brewer has played a limited role for the rebuilding Lakers, coming off the bench for about 13 minutes a night, averaging 3.7 points per game, and he has not been efficient doing it. He’s been a good presence in the Lakers’ young locker room, but on the court he’s had a minimal impact.
If he’s willing to save the Lakers some money (taking less than what he is still owed on his $7.6 million contract), the Lakers will do it.
Where could he land? Via Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN and Sam Amick of the USA Today:
After Corey Brewer’s buyout with the Lakers, a reunion with his college coach Billy Donovan in Oklahoma City is a serious possibility, league sources tell ESPN. He will talk to other teams too.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 28, 2018
OKC not expected to make any additions until after March 1, I’m told, but Corey Brewer definitely on their radar. T-Wolves, Jazz, Pelicans also expected to be in mix (already mentioned Cavs, Wiz, Portland, Bucks). Teams also monitoring Trevor Booker situation in Philly.
— Sam Amick (@sam_amick) February 28, 2018
Since the loss of Andre Roberson, the Thunder could use some depth and help on the wing, although Brewer provides leak outs not defense. Still, he would fit better than some of the guys currently on the OKC roster. Other playoff teams will make a pitch as well. Brewer wants a rotation role on one of these teams, but he’s going to have to play better than he has to keep it.
We’ll see if the Lakers cut ties with the guy who might draw more interest as a buyout candidate: Brook Lopez. He also means far more to them on the court, so it may not happen.