NBA: Cameron Payne Could Be Valuable Addition to These Contending Teams

PHOENIX, ARIZONA - Cameron Payne (#15) of the Phoenix Suns handles the ball during Game Four of the NBA Western Conference Semifinals at Footprint Center. (Photo : Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

Cameron Payne may find himself joining a new team soon after the San Antonio Spurs waived the 29-year-old guard on Monday, September 11.

The Spurs acquired the 14th overall pick of the 2015 NBA Draft last July, along with a 2025 second-round pick plus cash from the Phoenix Suns in exchange for a protected second-round pick in 2024, NBA.com reported.

Considering Cameron Payne had a credible showing in the 2023 Western Conference playoffs, he would have been a person to watch on a rebuilding San Antonio Spurs squad.

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Unfortunately, the former Murray State Racer would have to contend with other young players on the Spurs roster to get ample playing time. Hence, it made more sense for Payne to possibly join a contender instead, ESPN reported.

Clippers, Nuggets, and Heat could sign Payne

Once he clears waivers, Payne is expected to be pursued by multiple teams. Those who could explore a deal with the 6-foot-1 guard include the Los Angeles Clippers, Denver Nuggets, and the Miami Heat.

The Clippers have long had problems having a legitimate point guard, although Russell Westbrook is there. But after the veteran guard, guys like Terance Mann, Bones Hyland, and Jason Preston remain unreliable. Payton could be an interesting addition to ensure the Clippers backcourt does not struggle.

For the Nuggets, filling up the void vacated by Bruce Brown could make sense for Payne. Although the defensive comparison is questionable, the 29-year-old guard could make up for it with his outside shooting.

As for the Heat, Payne could be a backup option if Miami fails to get a Damian Lillard trade done. Questions are in the air regarding the future of Tyler Herro and Kyle Lowry. There is a current void after Gabe Vincent opted to leave South Beach and join the Los Angeles Lakers in the offseason.

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