2024 NBA Draft rumors: Latest on trades, Marcus Smart, Durant and more

The 2024 NBA Draft is on the horizon, and the rumor mill is in full swing. Speculations about potential draft-day trades, big-name free agents and even veteran trade packages are rife. But amidst this buzz, the question lingers: how much truth is there to these rumors, or are they dead-end conversations?

With the draft only hours away, teams are constantly evaluating and considering all their options to enhance their roster. The decisions they make in the coming days could significantly shape the future of their franchise. These teams are actively exploring their possibilities and testing the waters, ready to seize any specific opportunities.

Here's the latest NBA news leading up to the 2024 draft. While these rumors are not set in stone, they could offer valuable insights into the future, keeping you one step ahead in the game.

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Hawks not interested in trade talks for top pick

French forward Zaccharie Risacher is a strong contender for the Atlanta Hawks' top pick in the 2024 NBA Draft. However, the exact No. 1 overall pick is still up in the air, adding an element of suspense to the upcoming draft.

ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski has reported that the organization has made it clear that the Hawks are resolute in their decision not to entertain any trade offers for the No. 1 overall pick.

Grizzlies' Marcus Smart linked to Rockets in trade-down talks

The Memphis Grizzlies' Marcus Smart is reportedly being discussed in trade talks with the Houston Rockets to potentially move down in the 2024 draft board, according to The Athletic's Kelly Iko.

The Houston Rockets finished the 2023-24 season with a 41-41 record, and now they are seeking to make significant improvements in the coming years.

Should the trade involving Marcus Smart materialize, the 6'3 guard could significantly bolster the Rocket's backcourt depth and provide reliable perimeter defense, especially in the absence of Fred VanVleet. With Houston actively exploring multiple trade options, the potential impact of Smart's addition keeps the audience engaged in the team's future.

Kevin Durant trade rumors swirling for draft night coup

According to ESPN's Brian Windhorst, the trade between the New York Knicks and the Brooklyn Nets on Tuesday was followed by a secondary deal between the Nets and the Houston Rockets. Windhorst reported that this deal involved draft pick swaps between the two teams. This would give the Brooklyn Nets control of their next two first-round draft picks in exchange for as many as four possible draft picks from the Phoenix Suns.

Rumors have circulated about the Rockets' interest in trading for Kevin Durant. According to Windhorst on ESPN's First Take on Wednesday, if the Rockets select Donovan Clingan with the No. 3 overall pick, they could offer Alperen Sengun and the Phonix picks they recently acquired from Brooklyn to the Suns in exchange for Kevin Durant.

Paul George drawing trade interest

Paul George is still a hot topic in trade discussions ahead of the draft. According to ESPN's Brian Windhorst, the Los Angeles Clippers are prepared to offer George a deal similar to Kawhi Leonard's. This deal is a three-year contract that falls short of the maximum amount, something that George has been clear that he is looking for.

"He wants the full-out max, and I'm told there are a number of teams out there that are prepared to give it to him, and are prepared to trade for him. One of those teams is up the coast in Golden State. Golden State is big-fish hunting," according to Windhorst.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: NBA draft rumors: Latest news on possible trades for draft night