NBA Trade Rumors: Michael Beasley & Eight Bargain Deals

Not every playoff hopeful can swing a blockbuster trade. These eight “bargain” deals help ensure that a contender can step forward without breaking the bank.

As Bleacher Report’s resident NBA GM, I recently cooked up some pretty crazy trade ideas.

However, today’s transactions reasonably increase a team’s playoff chances while still keeping the door open if bigger opportunities materialize.

The Minnesota Timberwolves badly need a shooter. The Kings need a starting small forward.

A straight-up swapping of Michael Beasley for Marcus Thornton would have to wait until after March 1st due to Thornton’s contract, but it would be worth it. Both guys can score over 20 points per game, and Beasley’s contract expires next season if the Kings don’t like what they see.

The Los Angeles Clippers need some additional length and a guy who can spot minutes at the three. This deal gives them that while spotting the Memphis Grizzlies a little more ball handling and saved cash.

The Knicks are ready to win now. The Charlotte Bobcats are desperate for some athleticism and upside. This trade makes both sides happier.

The Boston Celtics are putting together one last run. They could use a versatile wild card in the mix. The Milwaukee Bucks need a body at center, and they wouldn’t mind saving some money a year early.

This swap for the Utah Jazz is expensive, but it buys from a position of strength to cover a gaping hole. The Toronto Raptors certainly wouldn’t refuse this one for their future.

The Los Angeles Lakers probably still have a blockbuster in the works, but bringing back this guy would be a reasonable gamble on recapturing old magic. The New Orleans Hornets save enough money over two years by ditching a bad contract. 

The Boston Celtics make the list again with the same option for a different guy. This improves them at center while again saving Milwaukee a few… bucks.

The Dallas Mavericks are saving money for an offseason shopping spree, but they’re also trying to defend their title. They need another versatile spark off the bench.

This deal saves Dallas a little money over a slightly longer contract, but it also provides the Denver Nuggets with the perfect lanky option to play with Nene and Danillo Gallinari.

As always, show me the depth of your love/hate for these ideas, and be sure to leave your own trade proposals!

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