Goodman: Anthony Bennett Clears Waivers, Will Sign With Toronto

Earlier today. Yahoo Sports' Adrian Wojnarowski reported that Anthony Bennett cleared waivers Friday, 48 hours after being bought out by the Minnesota Timberwolves. The Portland Trail Blazers had the option of claiming Bennett and his full contract, but they chose to pass.

Sources: Philadelphia, Portland, Utah, Cleveland pass on making waiver claim for Anthony Bennett, clearing way for him to become free agent.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@WojYahooNBA) September 25, 2015

Later, Jeff Goodman of ESPN reported that not only had Bennett cleared waivers, he was expected to return to his hometown, joining the Toronto Raptors as soon as Monday.

Former No. 1 overall pick Anthony Bennett is expected to clear waivers and sign with Toronto, source close to situation told ESPN.

— Jeff Goodman (@GoodmanESPN) September 25, 2015

Anthony Bennett was linked to the Blazers for multiple reasons. Portland assistant coach Jay Triano worked with Bennett over the summer as part of Team Canada, speaking highly of his progress. And Portland was one of the only teams with the cap space to absorb his contract. The Blazers apparently felt that he was not worth the price of a contract for a #1 pick. And for Bennett, the lure of returning to his hometown proved impossible to resist.

The Blazers have 17 players signed to the roster heading into training camp next week. Over the following month, they'll need to cut two players to reach the 15 player limit by the start of the season.

Training camp opens Monday, September 28th.

[Hat tip to WessyWesIsTheBessyBest, who posted this first in the Fanshots]