Billups withdraws from Cavs’ job
CLEVELAND — Chauncey Billups spun away from the Cavaliers.
After discussing a lead role in Cleveland’s front office, Billups withdrew from consideration Monday. The former All-Star guard had been in discussions with Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert about joining the Eastern Conference champions, but Billups said the “timing just isn’t right.”
The Cavs have been looking for a general manager since David Griffin parted with the club just before the draft. Griffin helped guide Cleveland to three straight Finals appearances but could not resolve issues with Gilbert, who has yet to give a contract extension to any of the four GMs who have worked for him since 2005.
Billups met with Gilbert in Detroit and Cleveland. The 40-year-old does not have any front-office experience, but his solid reputation attracted him to Gilbert, who has known him since he played for the Pistons. It is believed Gilbert asked Billups to be the president of basketball operations.
Billups released a statement to ESPN on his decision. He’s an analyst for the network.
Durant agrees to 2-year deal
OAKLAND, Calif. — The NBA Finals MVP gladly accepted a pay cut.
One day shy of a year after announcing his decision to join the powerhouse Warriors, Kevin Durant took far less than he could have to help make sure they stay winners and chase more championships. KD agreed to terms Monday on a contract worth approximately $53 million over the next two years.
Lakers sign draft picks Ball, Kuzma, Hart
EL SEGUNDO, Calif. — The Los Angeles Lakers have signed first-round draft picks Lonzo Ball, Kyle Kuzma and Josh Hart.
The Lakers formalized the deals Monday.
Ball is expected to make $33.4 million over four years in his contract slot as the second overall pick. The Lakers didn’t announce the terms of the deal.
Magic Johnson called Ball “the new face of the Lakers” at his introductory news conference last month. Ball led the nation in assists during his only season at UCLA.
Kuzma is a power forward chosen with the 27th overall selection. The Lakers acquired the pick in a draft-night trade with Brooklyn.
Hart was selected by the Jazz with the 30th overall pick and traded to Los Angeles. He was the Big East’s player of the year at Villanova last season.
Hornets sign top pick Monk
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Charlotte Hornets have signed first-round draft pick Malik Monk, the 11th choice in the NBA draft.
Contract terms were not immediately available Monday.
Monk was the Southeastern Conference’s player of the year. The star guard averaged 19.8 points, 2.5 rebounds and 2.3 assists as a freshman at Kentucky.
Monk is not participating in the Hornets’ summer league games because of an ankle injury. He was hurt during workouts before the NBA draft.