Real Madrid is interested in signing Theo Maledon, a 1.93-meter-tall, 23-year-old French point guard currently playing for ASVEL Villeurbanne and excelling in the Euroleague. He has been named MVP of the week three times this season. Maledon is known for his offensive skills, combining physical strength with excellent shooting. He is currently the fourth-highest scorer in the Euroleague, averaging 18.8 points per game (54.2% on two-point shots and 39.8% on three-pointers) and ranking second in PIR with 23.4 credits per game. He also contributes in rebounds (4.2) and assists (4.8).

Real Madrid has already felt the impact of Maledon's talent. In their recent 80-78 loss to ASVEL, Maledon dominated with 23 points (5/7 in two-pointers, 2/5 in three-pointers, 7/7 in free throws), two rebounds, seven assists, and a PIR of 31 in 30:50 minutes on the court. During his time in the game, his team led by 17 points.

Real Madrid's interest in Maledon isn't new; they showed interest a few weeks ago but were deterred by ASVEL's high asking price. Now, with Madrid's Euroleague campaign in need of improvement, the club is once again pursuing Maledon, hoping to lower the cost by including shooting guard Xavier Rathan-Mayes in the deal. Rathan-Mayes has fallen out of favor with coach Chus Mateo, having been left out of the last two games against Río Breogán and Paris Basketball.

Madrid is keen to sign Maledon not only to strengthen their current season but also with a long-term view, aiming to secure him on a multi-year contract. However, they face competition from financially stronger Greek and Turkish teams, who are also tracking Maledon’s performance. ASVEL is also eager to keep him, as his contract expires in June.

Additionally, Maledon could consider a return to the NBA. He has prior experience in the league, having been drafted 34th by the Philadelphia 76ers in 2020 and traded to the Oklahoma City Thunder, where he played two seasons. Maledon later moved to the Houston Rockets, Charlotte Hornets, and Phoenix Suns, appearing in 177 NBA games with averages of 7.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.9 assists.

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