There were speculations of interest in a reunion in Charlotte and rumors that other clubs might be interested in pursuing Kemba Walker if the Pistons buy him out and he becomes a free agent.
However, the buyout has not yet taken place. At The Athletic, James Edwards III wrote an article on it.
"I stated that Walker's buyout by the Pistons and subsequent free agency was the team's plans. Detroit still desires that to occur. However, the Pistons' end of the delay is not the issue. The two sides must agree on a buyout figure that benefits both parties for the Pistons to agree to pay less than the full $9 million owed to the veteran point guard this season. That figure should benefit Walker by giving him a significant portion of the money owed while enabling him to find a better situation. It should also benefit the Pistons by allowing them to receive a small discount in exchange for letting Walker go.
According to insiders, Walker and the Pistons had agreed on a sum that was a few million dollars less than what he was entitled to.
Why, then, hasn't it occurred? Edwards concludes logically that Walker hasn't yet found a new residence. Players typically forfeit the sum they would have received from another team in a buyout, ensuring they maintain their financial well-being. In contrast, the team saves millions ($2.7 million in Walker's case). Walker has not yet located a new residence, though he might lose the money if he accepts a buyout.
That might alter when clubs complete their rosters ahead of training camp or discover they require a backup point guard once they arrive at camp if Walker is willing to take on that position. He played in just 37 games in New York last season, averaging 11.6 points and 3.5 assists per game due to knee issues. If he can hold up physically, he could help a team in a limited bench role, but is a team willing to bet on his health?
The Pistons don't need him, with Cade Cunningham, Cory Joseph, and Killian Hayes already on the roster.
Before Walker contracts with a franchise, expect Walker's rumors to surface. The Pistons are prepared to buy him out when that club steps forward.
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