1.   His attorney, Zachary Jones, initially said Smith left after hearing his name in trade rumors.

2.   All those trade rumors involving Barkley are drying up faster than a solitary raindrop striking hot cement.

3.   Among other things, he told the players not to worry about the many trade rumors that are swirling about.

4.   Amid the trade rumors, he finally came to New York and showed off his wares Saturday night.

5.   And after winning two NBA championships with Houston, he was a subject of many trade rumors that never became fact.

6.   And it could cause a hiatus in the trade rumors that often include his name.

7.   And trade rumors continue to surround Charles Barkley, the Dream Team forward from the Phoenix Suns, who may be dealt to Houston within the week.

8.   And, by the way, the Rice trade rumors are heating up again.

9.   And with that, there is a possibility his name will come up in trade rumors.

10.   Another flurry of Wayne Gretzky trade rumors were swirling Sunday, and they were met with more stern denials by the Kings.