Monta Ellis, one of the premier players remaining on the free agent market, parted ways with his longtime agent, Jeff Fried, on Wednesday.
Ellis, who opted out of the final year of a six-year, $66 million deal, is frustrated that he has yet to receive a high-paying contract offer. Industry sources expect him to sign with agent Dan Fegan.
"I only wish Monta and his family the very best," Fried said. "He is a superstar on the court and a character individual with tremendous integrity off the court."
As of Tuesday, Ellis was hoping to have a deal in place within the next 36-48 hours. His split with Fried, however, may extend that timetable.
Ellis, who averaged 19.2 points and 6.0 assists for Milwaukee last season, has not been offered superstar money thus far. Having rejected a contract extension from the Milwaukee Bucks that would have enabled him to make $36 million over the next three years, he is hoping to make $40 million over four years.
But few teams have that much cap space left. Thus, Ellis is hoping for a sign-and-trade deal that may enable him to get close to his desired figure.
The Atlanta Hawks, Dallas Mavericks, Sacramento Kings and Charlotte Bobcats have shown the most interest in the 27-year-old Ellis. The Chicago Bulls, New York Knicks and the Los Angeles Lakers have interest but lack the cap room to pay Ellis anywhere near what he believes he is worth.
