The closer we get to the NBA trade deadline, the more rumors we’ll begin to hear. By now, the whispers are growing louder. We’re starting to hear talks about some major players who may be on the move.
For most fans, this is exciting. A blockbuster trade gets everyone around the league on their feet. Suddenly, the league’s landscape has shifted, and nobody can wait to see how it plays out.
This deadline may be a slightly quiet one. It’s a buyer’s market, so we may not see as much movement as usual. Still, there are major players around the league who are likely to be on the move.
Here are the best landing spots for the biggest names on the trade market.
Pascal Siakam
We’re not in the habit of giving gambling advice. Still, we’re willing to say this: don’t bet on Siakam staying on the Toronto Raptors past this year’s deadline. If that happens, we’ll be completely shocked.
The Raptors have every incentive to move Siakam. His fit alongside Scottie Barnes is questionable, and he’s the franchise’s future. Meanwhile, the Raptors have already gotten their rebuild underway by sending O.G. Anunoby to the New York Knicks.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Pascal Siakam, Toronto Raptors Updates
Meanwhile, Siakam will have a market. Rumors about his unwillingness to extend with certain teams will limit that market, but he remains a two-way force who would complement most contenders. Look for someone to give up a haul for the star forward
Best Landing Spots: Indiana Pacers, Atlanta Hawks, Oklahoma City Thunder
Dejounte Murray
Once again, this is a matter of fit. Dejounte Murray is a point guard who’s best with the ball in his hands. So is Trae Young. It doesn’t look like Murray can play with Young. As a result, many expect the Hawks to move on from Murray.
What will his market look like? It’s hard to say. At one time, Murray was widely held to be one of the best defensive guards in the NBA. By now, his defense has regressed. How much will that hurt his market?
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Dejounte Murray, Atlanta Hawks Updates
To some extent, with that said Murray is having a career-best shooting season. He’s also a strong playmaker. If a team is willing to gamble on him returning to his defensive form, they may be willing to make the Hawks a significant offer.
Best Landing Spots: Los Angeles Lakers, Miami Heat, San Antonio Spurs
Donovan Mitchell
We told you not to bet against Siakam moving. We won’t offer the same advice with Donovan Mitchell. Where he’s playing after the deadline is anyone’s guess.
Realistically, the safe money is on him sticking with the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Cavs are playing well. Rumors suggest that they’re not looking to move Mitchell. Why would they be? He’s one of the best offensive guards in the NBA.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Donovan Mitchell, Cleveland Cavaliers Updates
Only, it’s long been suggested that he’d prefer to play in a bigger market. If that’s true, the Cavs may be looking to avoid a trade request. The Cavs are likely to hang onto Mitchell, but they may move him. All we can do for now is wait until the deadline.
Best Landing Spots: New York Knicks, Brooklyn Nets, Miami Heat
