Several NBA teams are trying to take advantage of the buyout market in hopes of acquiring talent to help push for the playoffs. Big names are becoming available following contract buyouts and will seek to sign on with a contending team for the remainder of the season. Kevin Martin is one of the latest names available to sign, and at least three teams are emerging as options for the veteran.
The buyout market has already seen names likes Joe Johnson and Ty Lawson arrive. The Miami Heat picked up Johnson while Lawson is receiving offers. Martin now officially joins them after the Minnesota Timberwolves bought out his contract. The shooting guard was scheduled to make $7.4 million, and now he is on the market in hopes of getting to the playoffs. The Timberwolves already bought out the contract of Andre Miller as they intend to invest heavily in their young talent. The guard was quick to thank the Timberwolves before his exit.
"The past two years have been the toughest to witness what you guys have gone through," Martin said. "Just know it has helped me respect more than just the game. I was blessed to learn so much, on and off the court, from my favorite two NBA legacy families."
The San Antonio Spurs are the favorite to sign Martin. The team has already agreed to a contract with Miller and is now aiming to pick up his teammate. The Spurs have dealt with injuries this year to both Tim Duncan and Manu Ginobili that are leading them to eye depth on the market. Martin is a quality pickup for the Spurs. He has averaged 17.6 points throughout his career while being a lifetime 38.5 percent shooter from long range. While the Spurs might be the favorite, they are not the only team interested.
The Atlanta Hawks, Dallas Mavericks and Houston Rockets are also seeking to make a run at Martin. The Hawks have Jeff Teague and Dennis Schroder occupying the backcourt but could use extra scoring help when one of the two players struggle. The Rockets just waived Lawson and could use Martin to replace him. The Mavericks are one of the many Western Conference teams looking to beef up their roster in order to challenge the Golden State Warriors. Martin is the best player available at the moment.
If Martin wants to sign with a playoff contender, he will head to San Antonio. The Spurs are still in the hunt in the Western Conference. The Rockets are slipping in the standings while the Hawks hold on to the fifth place in the East.
