As the NBA season continues to unfold, many different trade rumors continue to arise. From quality role players to absolute stars, it appears that a plethora of players may be made available for trade. Certain teams are in desperate need of change while others may just need another player or two to build a contending team. While absolutely none of these NBA trade rumors are a done deal, don’t be surprised if any or all of these trades occur sometime in the future.
Trade Rumors from Around the NBA
Jrue Holiday to the Miami Heat
Pretty much everyone can agree that Jrue Holiday is a very valuable player. He brings top-notch defense while also providing very stable offensive production. The problem here is that the New Orleans Pelicans are not contenders and are just eating up his large contract for nothing. Paolo Songco from Clutch Points has pointed out that a Holiday trade is very possible. He also listed the Miami Heat as a top destination.
For Miami, he would be a system fit who could contribute immediately. Miami likely won’t want to give up too much in return, however. They currently have one of the most talented young cores in the entire NBA and are producing at a very high level. They would likely be willing to part with players such as Goran Dragic, Dion Waiters, and Kelly Olynyk.
New Orleans would likely want substantially more than this in exchange for a player of Holiday’s caliber. Dragic would be a good starting piece, but they would likely require a player such as Justise Winslow, Tyler Herro, or Kendrick Nunn in return. These are all key players for Miami, so getting a deal done may be difficult.
Russell Westbrook on the Move
While it may seem like a longshot for Russell Westbrook to be traded yet again, there is some speculation out there that he may be available. Ryan Russillo of the Ringer has stated that he believes Westbrook may be available for the right price. In the past, Houston Rockets General Manager Daryl Morey has been open to trading just about anyone except for James Harden. This potential trade could be a huge mistake.
Moving a contract like Westbrook’s would be no small task. While he hasn’t quite lived up to expectations this season, it hasn’t hurt the Rockets so far. They still currently hold one of the better records in the entire NBA and are a threat to beat just about anyone. Westbrook also can get hot at any given moment. This could give the Rockets a huge boost come playoff time. So while this potential trade is possible, it is highly unlikely given the possible ripple effects for this organization.
Tristan Thompson to the Toronto Raptors
Tristan Thompson knows exactly what it takes to win a championship. He has the veteran experience and leadership to help out a possible contender this season. If Thompson wants even a chance at winning a title this season, it’ll have to be on a different team. Rudi Schuller from sportingnews.com has speculated that the Toronto Raptors could be a potential trade destination for the veteran center.
For the Cleveland Cavaliers, they could potentially receive some good value out of this trade. It would need to be a package deal to make the deal work for both sides. Players such as Norman Powell, Fred VanVleet, and Patrick McCaw could all potentially be made available. Cleveland could stockpile picks and young talent for the future while Toronto could add a veteran center to help in the playoffs.
While none of these trades are set in stone by any means, many are possible. As the February trade deadline draws closer and closer expect to hear more trade rumors from around the NBA.
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