New Orleans Pelicans: Myles Turner
Yup. Myles Turner again.
We’ll reiterate: Turner is one of the most portable players in the league. It makes sense that plenty of teams could use him. The Pelicans have their offensive infrastructure in place between Zion Williamson, Brandon Ingram, and C.J. McCollum. A low-maintenance big man who spaces the floor and protects the paint would be a perfect addition to the squad.
New York Knicks: Tyus Jones
Realistically, the Knicks have loftier expectations. It feels like this organization always does. They’ve been linked to names like Donovan Mitchell, Kyrie Irving and Jalen Brunson this summer. Frankly, this roster isn’t developed enough to justify that type of expenditure. The Knicks would do better to land a cheaper, lower usage option at the point. With his league-best assist-to-turnover ratio in 2021-22, Jones would be a great option.
Oklahoma City Thunder: Russell Westbrook
If you wear glasses, there’s no need to clean them. We did just name Russell Westbrook as the Thunder’s ideal trade target.
Realistically, the Thunder are targeting the Lakers’ 2027 first-round pick here. If there’s a three-team deal that could help them land that at the cost of absorbing Westbrook’s contract, they should get involved in it. It’s an expiring deal, and they get a pick. Plus, Westbrook’s reunion with the team would sell some tickets. If they’re still looking to tank, anyone who’s watched Westbrook over recent years shouldn’t be worried about him generating wins.
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Orlando Magic: Dillon Brooks
Having selected Paolo Banchero with the first overall pick in the 2022 draft, the Magic are hoping to have their offensive focal point of the future. They might as well begin surrounding him with young, complementary pieces. Brooks could be exactly the type of 3-and-D wing that enhances Banchero’s game.
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Philadelphia 76ers: Eric Gordon
Between Joel Embiid, James Harden, and the emerging Tyrese Maxey, the top of this Sixers pecking order is clearly established. This summer they ought to go about filling out the rest of the roster with two-way veterans. If they’d like an elite floor-spacer who plays solid perimeter defense and has experience playing alongside Harden, Eric Gordon is their man.
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Phoenix Suns: Kevin Durant
For many of these teams, we aimed to identify a solid role player who would enhance the team. With the Suns, we got a little bold.
We don’t need to highlight the benefits of adding Durant to a roster already featuring Chris Paul and Devin Booker. It would make the Suns instant title contenders. If he’s on the trade market, a package centered around Deandre Ayton and Mikal Bridges ought to make for a competitive offer.
