With last year being one of the busiest in league history, this year’s NBA trade deadline could be one of the most eventful in recent history. Many players with star potential and team-altering capabilities could be on the move. Every year we hear rumors of the next star to demand a trade, but this year those moves come to a reality. With that being said, here are the six names to watch for the 2021-2022 trade deadline.
Names to Watch Before NBA Trade Deadline
De’Aaron Fox, Sacramento Kings
The Kings have been struggling since the 2005-2006 season. Since then, they have gone through 10 coaches and still have not had a winning season. This season, De’Aaron Fox has been one of the few bright spots for the Kings, with his aggressive and attacking offensive playstyle. However, this has led hit to become one of the hottest young players on the trade market. Fox’s contract is guaranteed until 2026, but he easily be unhappy with the way the Kings have been playing, and the way the front office is building the team around him.
Potential Suitors for De’Aaron Fox: New York Knicks, Dallas Mavericks, Philadelphia 76ers.
Ben Simmons, Philidelphia 76ers
Ben Simmons refusing to play in the 2021-2022 season for the 76ers has been the most perplexing decision an NBA player has made. The 76ers have said they are in no rush, but the rumors continue to swirl. Simmons is always available, and this trade deadline could finally be the time for Simmons’ departure. As the 76ers look to improve their team in hopes of contending for an NBA title, any return in this trade is an addition, without subtraction. The 76ers say they are waiting for the right trade, but the sooner they cash in, the better they become.
Potential Suiters for Ben Simmons: Sacramento Kings, Portland Trail Blazers, Brooklyn Nets.
Myles Turner, Indiana Pacers
It was already a given that the Pacers were open to trading many of the players on their roster, and that only became more clear on Sunday afternoon when they traded Caris Levert to the Cleveland Cavaliers. Now, Domantas Sabonis is also on his way out. In his five and a half years in the NBA, Myles Turner has made himself known for his impressive shot-blocking ability and three-point shooting, which is spectacular for a player in his position. Therefore, it should be expected that Turner will be a name thrown around in many trade talks this week. He can bring a lot of value to contending teams, and based on the state of the Pacers front office the price tag will not be extreme.
Potential Suiters for Myles Turner: Los Angeles Lakers, Boston Celtics, Brooklyn Nets.
Jerami Grant, Detroit Pistons
Jerami Grant has found his name to be one of the most prevalent among rumors around the trade deadline. His high offensive ceiling and defensive motor give Grant the ability to fit on most contending teams. The question at the deadline is not if Grant will be traded, as opposed to where he will be traded. The Pistons would love to free up cap space, as Detroit will pay Grant $20 million this year and next. The Pistons could also create playing time for their younger forwards, like Saddiq Bey and Josh Jackson, who would love chances to show their continued improvement.
Possible Suiters for Jerami Grant: Utah Jazz, Washington Wizards, Brooklyn Nets
James Harden, Brooklyn Nets
It is highly unlikely that James Harden gets traded any time soon. However, it would be a disservice not to mention him in this article. James Harden is reportedly unhappy with some players on the roster, especially co-star Kyrie Irving. If the 32-year-old Harden desires a new team before the deadline, he will find himself on one, and the possibilities are endless. No team would not give a substantial offer for the 2018-2019 MVP, even if they are likely to be rejected.
Possible Suiters for James Harden: Philadelphia 76ers, Miami Heat
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Bradley Beal, Washington Wizards
Like Harden, Bradley Beal is a name that should be mentioned. The Wizards haven’t been good this season, leading to speculation about Bradley Beal and his future in Washinton. While there is no visible displeasure, the Wizards could look to move on from Bradley Beal and kick off their rebuild. The 28-year-old Beal is in his prime and could accrue a lot of trade value in a trade. If the Wizards find a deal that is satisfactory, then we could see a rebuild coming soon in Washington. However, this is now complicated by Beal choosing to undergo season-ending surgery.
Potential Suiters: Philadelphia 76ers, Atlanta Hawks, Dallas Mavericks.
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