Ira Winderman of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel reports: Agent Don Cronson said Wednesday the Bucks still appear the most likely landing spot for his client. One scenario would bring the Knicks into play. Should New York gain an injured-player salary-cap exception because of Larry Johnson's retirement, it then could pursue Scott Williams or Ervin Johnson from the Bucks. That, in turn, would clear enough space for the Bucks to sign Mason without exceeding the luxury-tax threshold.

In addition, there is thought Denver could pursue a sign-and-trade transaction with the Heat for Mason, as a way to compensate for the injury absence of Antonio McDyess.

In a related article, Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald reports: The Heat has inquired about Milwaukee point guard Sam Cassell as part of a sign-and-trade involving free agent forward Anthony Mason. The Bucks haven't ruled it out, but they are unlikely to deal their starting point guard for Mason.


The Bucks have their $4.5 million exception, but giving it to Mason would push Milwaukee over the luxury tax threshold, which ownership opposes. Mason wants a four-year, $20.8 million deal, but the Bucks are offering fewer years and less money. The Heat has rejected Milwaukee's offer of Scott Williams or Greg Foster for Mason.