Hapoel Tel Aviv Explores Tamir Blatt as Backup Plan Amid Yam Madar Contract Talks

Hapoel Tel Aviv is preparing for the possibility that star guard Yam Madar will exercise his $300,000 exit clause in his contract, which expires Tuesday at 23:59. Despite this, the club intends to continue negotiations with Madar to retain him, potentially offering an improved salary. Madar had previously rejected Hapoel's initial $2.5 million offer.

Anticipating Madar's possible departure, Hapoel has initiated talks with representatives of Tamir Blatt, another leading Israeli national team guard who recently became a free agent after finishing his contract with Maccabi Tel Aviv. Blatt, who averaged 7.1 points and 5.2 assists in 19.5 minutes per game in the EuroLeague last season, is reportedly seeking a $1.5 million salary, while Maccabi offered him $900,000.

Hapoel's discussions with Blatt's representatives are in the early stages, focusing on feasibility rather than a formal offer. The club remains hopeful that Madar will stay but is actively exploring alternatives to maintain competitiveness in the Israeli Basketball Premier League. The talks with Blatt are expected to continue within the next 24 hours.