Which NBA Players Will Be Traded?
Added on Mar 08, 2012 by Scott in
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Next Thursday’s NBA trade deadline is approaching fast. Several players are rumored to be involved in different scenarios as teams look to either bolster a contending roster or dump salary during a lost season. As is the case every year, not all the names on the block will be dealt, but the odds of a couple of blockbuster deals going down are good. Here’s a quick look at some the players who could be moved.
Dwight Howard (Magic) – The Magic would prefer to add not subtract, but if they can’t land another elite scorer to help Howard’s cause, they may have no choice but to unload their stud center before he becomes a free agent in the offseason. However, signs seem to be pointing toward him staying put even if they don’t add another weapon.
Rajon Rondo (Celtics) – With Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen’s expiring contracts ripe for the picking, it seems unlikely Rondo, who is only 26, will be sent packing. However, he is the Celtics best bargaining chip, so if the right offer came their direction, anything is possible.
Pau Gasol (Lakers) – The Lakers big man has been linked to a host of teams in recent weeks, despite his consistent play throughout the season. L.A. needs depth at small forward and point guard, but it will take a quality player or two coming back to give up Gasol.
O.J. Mayo (Grizzlies) – Memphis probably won’t mess with the chemistry as they currently sit in the #3 seed in the West. That said, Mayo is always rumored to have one foot out the door, and his long-range prowess is coveted by teams lacking perimeter scoring.
Steve Nash (Suns) – Phoenix is going nowhere in 2012, which has lead some to believe Nash will be unloaded prior to him entering free agency. The problem is the Suns think they can convince the 38-year-old point guard to stick around for another two years. However, with the Knicks, Mavericks and Trail Blazers showing interest, the odds of Nash staying in the desert seem remote.
Monta Ellis and Stephen Curry (Warriors) – Considering the Warriors are once again floundering in the Western Conference basement, it’s logical to assume either Ellis or Curry could be swapped for a much-needed post player. Both are very talented outside shooters, but Curry’s ailing foot should be a concern to potential trade partners.
Deron Williams (Nets) – The Nets are deplorable, and unless they trade for Dwight Howard or prove to Williams they can coax him to Brooklyn this summer, Williams is all but gone when he hits free agency. But with Williams the only trade value on the roster, the Nets are backed into a corner.
