Los Angeles Lakers: Talen Horton-Tucker
Before you ask: yes, we considered Russell Westbrook.
Why didn’t we go with him? We’ll give you about 47 million reasons why not. Westbrook has one of the biggest contracts in the league, so the suggestion that he’s likely to get moved feels misguided. Meanwhile, Talen Horton-Tucker still holds some intrigue at 21. He’s probably this team’s best trade chip, so given their dire need to improve, it seems likely that they’ll move him.
Los Angeles Clippers: Luke Kennard
The Clippers project as another team who’s likely to hold serve. In all likelihood, they won’t need more than good health to compete for the NBA Championship in 2022-23. With that said, Kennard is a reliable floor spacer, and only 25. If the Clippers have a win-now upgrade under their sleeves this summer, he’s their most likely trade candidate.
Memphis Grizzlies: Brandon Clarke
The Grizzlies are yet another team who may not make a move this summer. After a surprising 56-win season, they could bank on internal development to take the next step. With that said, this team has a surplus of quality frontcourt players. If they were looking to diversify their lineups by moving one of them, Clarke may be the most expendable.
Miami Heat: Duncan Robinson
If we were listing the players’ teams would most like to move, Duncan Robinson would be an even more obvious choice for the Heat. Currently, they’re paying him $16.9 million dollars a year only to be unplayable in the playoffs. Defensive warts aside, Robinson is an elite three-point threat. If the Heat were willing to attach sweeteners to his contract, they should be able to relocate him.
Milwaukee Bucks: Jordan Nwora
The Milwaukee Bucks could have had a much different season if Khris Middleton hadn’t gotten injured. They could justify making minimal moves this summer. Still, Jordan Nwora is a young wing with some intrigue that wasn’t ready to contribute to a contending team last season. Some rebuilding team could be interested in taking a flier on him.
Minnesota Timberwolves: D’Angelo Russell
Rumors suggest that the Wolves are ready to move on from Russell. After his subpar performance in the 2021-22 playoffs, it’s not hard to imagine why. Still, Russell is an above-average playmaker and adequate floor spacer. The Wolves should be able to find a taker among the league’s most point guard needy teams.