Joe Smith and OKC close to a buyout?

Word out of Cleveland says so:

Several league sources said Friday that Smith and his agent, Dan Fegan, have been talking to the Thunder about securing a buyout. The Cavs have expressed interest, setting up what could be intensifying negotiations ahead of Sunday’s midnight deadline for players to be released and still be eligible to join playoff rosters.

But with many factors at play, including the public positions on the matter of Smith and Thunder coach Scott Brooks, it is far from a sure thing.

So there’s that. I have a feeling it will happen especially with Smith sitting out the last five and with Malik Rose getting run instead of Smith last night.

And if you’re looking for a little Saturday afternoon reading, Joe and I answered some questions for MVN yesterday about the Thunder.