Sacramento waived forward-center Mikki Moore, and New York has been in on-and-off buyout talks with disgruntled veteran guard Stephon Marbury, who does not interest the Lakers. Los Angeles Times
The agent for forward Mikki Moore said he spoke with the Nuggets about his client, but the 11-year veteran probably is headed east. Moore, who averaged 3.5. points and 3.3 rebounds for the Sacramento Kings this season, was waived Thursday and reportedly will sign with the Boston Celtics. Agent Mark Bartelstein talked to the Nuggets this week; he said Moore likely will make a decision on his future this weekend. Rocky Mountain News
Ex-NBA swingman Bryon Russell is hoping to get back in the league, possibly with the Celtics. Russell and his agent, Daryl Floyd, have called several teams, including Boston, Philadelphia, Oklahoma City, and Phoenix. The 38-year-old said he is in condition to play 15-20 minutes per game and has been away too long after letting a knee injury heal. Russell hasn't played since the 2005-06 season with Denver. "I want to help some playoff teams and get back into the game that I love," said Russell. "I work out every day. The rust part can get worked out just by playing with the fellas. I wouldn't take away from The Big Three [in Boston]. I would love to play with them. I have nothing to prove. I want to lend a helping hand with the loss of [James ] Posey by playing defense, knocking down jump shots, and basically playing the role of a Posey. I got some life in these legs. Now that the [trade] deadline is over, I think people are looking to add a veteran on their squad. I'm hoping I can provide that." Boston Globe
The prime target remains Joe Smith. And while he’s said he’s not looking for a buyout from Oklahoma City, there are different rumblings behind the scene. Word is strong that, after being sent to New Orleans in a deal that was ultimately reversed last week, he could be on the move. “I don’t know too much right now,” Smith told the Herald. “This week has been a crazy week all around, as far as being traded and the trade being rescinded. I don’t have too many answers right now about what’s going on in the office or what’s going on with my agent and talks with the team. Boston Herald
“I didn’t know what to think before the trade deadline. You heard so many things. And now it’s almost the same situation. I hear my name as far as being bought out and a lot of teams inquiring about it. But I really don’t know. I don’t expect anything to happen, but I’m not sure.” The 6-foot-10 Smith has done an admirable job of honoring his employer, but it did please him to know the Celtics would have such interest if he gets free. “That’s very flattering,” he said. “Obviously KG and I played together in Minnesota, and we talk quite often. And this is the defending champions. They accomplished a lot last year and this year, too. For them to feel that I can be a piece of their puzzle, that’s very flattering.” Boston Herald
