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The two-month dance between the Nets and Anthony Bennett has reached a new stage, tweets Mike Scotto of Sheridan Hoops and AP.
Sources: Former No. 1 pick Anthony Bennett and the Nets have mutual interest. He's played for Canada in FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament.
— Michael Scotto (@MikeAScotto) July 11, 2016
The Nets worked the 6'8" Bennett out for two days at a vets' mini-camp in May and he did well, according to various reports. Scotto, Ian Begley and Mike Mazzeo have all reported on a level of Nets interest. Bennett also worked out for the Knicks earlier this summer. He'd be somewhat of a risk, but a very small one, particularly with a small contract.
Still only 23, Bennett is seen as one of the biggest draft busts ever. After a disappointing season with the Cavaliers, the team that drafted him, he was traded along with Andrew Wiggins to Minnesota for Kevin Love. The Timberwolves bought out his rookie contract at the end of last season. He signed with his hometown Toronto Raptors this season, only to be waived again, making him an unrestricted free agent. Since being waived, Bennett has changed his body, losing body fat and firming up.
In the just concluded FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Manila, Bennett averaged 6.5 points and 5.0 rebounds. Canada lost to France in the Finals on Saturday.