NBA Trade Rumors: Predicting the Landing Destination for Top 10 Rumored Players

NBA owners and players are still in a deadlock over the new collective bargaining agreement, but that hasn’t stopped trade rumors from running rampant throughout the league, with names like Dwight Howard and Monta Ellis popping up everywhere we turn.

There is an unprecedented number of star caliber players who are considered as being on the trade block. Whether it is fear of a player leaving via next year’s free agency, a team looking to get younger or just trying to clear some cap space, never before have we seen this type of trade market.

Of course, all rumors and speculation will not be able to reach the potential of fruition until the lockout is over, but it is still interesting to see where teams and players stand as far as negotiations though.

Which stars will get traded? Where will they land? Which players are bound to stay put?

With the aforementioned questions in mind, let us take a look at the top players rumored to be on the move and see where each is bound to end up.

Russell Westbrook of the Oklahoma City Thunder

Russell Westbrook's name made its way into trade speculation right after the Oklahoma City Thunder were eliminated by the Dallas Mavericks in the Western Conference finals, with many citing his struggles as the premiere reason.

Westbrook had a career year. He averaged 21.9 points and 8.2 to assists per game, emerging as one of the league leading point guards. However, during the postseason, it became evident that when the pressure was on, he was indecisive and lacked cohesion with the pillar of Oklahoma City: Kevin Durant.

There was some speculation that the New Orleans Hornets would consider swapping Chris Paul for Westbrook, but such a rumor was shot down by Hornets GM Dell Demps.

Such a deal lacked foundation and would make some believe this slide should be reserved for Paul instead, but the fact is Oklahoma City is more likely to consider trading Westbrook than New Orleans is Paul.

Paul may make it obvious that he is going to leave the Hornets, in which case they will then trade him, but until that becomes clear, they will do everything possible to hold on to their star.

Westbrook, on the other hand, is not the face of his franchise; Durant is.

If Westbrook does not exhibit the ability to play alongside Durant any longer, the Thunder will certainly entertain offers for the point guard. However, that may be getting ahead of ourselves. 

Westbrook had a rocky postseason, but he and Durant have had some success in the past, and Oklahoma City will most likely give it another season before they opt to move Westbrook.

Additionally, finding equal value in return for Westbrook would be near impossible. The Paul trade made sense but lacked merit.

Prediction: Russell Westbrook Remains with Oklahoma City Thunder

Josh Smith of the Atlanta Hawks

Josh Smith of the Atlanta Hawks seems to have fallen out of favor with the organization, largely in part due to his negative locker room presence and was actively being shopped.

Smith averaged 16.5 points, 8.5 rebounds and 1.6 blocks per game last season, helping Atlanta grab the fifth seed in the Eastern Conference and upset the Orlando Magic in the first round of the playoffs.

Ironically, the team that has exhibited the most interest in Smith is the Magic, who are looking for guys who can persuade Dwight Howard that Orlando is serious about contending for a title.

It is unclear what assets would be exchanged in the deal, but Ken Berger of CBSSPORTS.com reports that the talks are legitimate and very possible.

Orlando would almost certainly have to hand over Jameer Nelson in any deal for Smith, and while they have Gilbert Arenas to step in and take over the point guard duties, he is a shell of his former self.

Ultimately, there may not prove to be many suitors for Smith aside from the Magic. His attitude has tarnished his image, and his contract doesn’t help. Smith is also not the bona fide star that Atlanta is trying to make him out to be.

Orlando, in desperation, is likely to fall victim to this façade though. While he would be a good addition talent wise, he may not be enough to keep Howard in Orlando. It would probably take a Gilbert Arenas resurgence as well.

And such an occurrence has about as great a chance as happening as the Magic walking away from any Smith deal: Slim to none.

Prediction: Josh Smith to Orlando Magic

Rudy Gay of the Memphis Grizzlies

After the Memphis Grizzlies showed what they could do without Rudy Gay in the lineup, his name appeared on the trade block.

Gay averaged 19.8 points, 6.2 rebounds and 1.7 steals in 54 games for the Grizzlies last season, but Memphis’ success without him led many to believe he was expendable. Trade chatter on Gay began all the way back in May, but Memphis Grizzlies’ owner Michael Heisley attempted to put such speculation to rest.

However, there will still be a number of teams that may inquire about his availability once this lockout ends. The Lakers could be a team who is interested, as could the Hawks, the Nets and even the Clippers.

Memphis would be remissed if they didn’t at least listen to offers. This being said, with Gay’s contract and teams’ belief that he is now expendable, the Grizzlies will probably not find an offer that matches his value to their team.

Prediction: Rudy Gay Remains with Memphis Grizzlies

Lamar Odom of Los Angeles Lakers

Lamar Odom has probably been mentioned in more potential deals than anyone else on this list.

The reigning Sixth Man of the Year averaged 14.4 points and 8.7 rebounds per game for the Los Angeles Lakers last season, yet the team is still actively looking to move him.

It is not so much that the Lakers are unhappy with Odom. He has been solid for the Lakers, but he is 31, and Los Angeles believes they are in need of a young star to pair with the aging Kobe Bryant to return to relevance.

Odom has been mentioned in a number of trades. Bill Plaschke of the Los Angeles Times reported that that Lakers should trade Odom and Andrew Bynum for Howard, and Los Angeles’ sixth man has also been mentioned in Monta Ellis negotiations.

Additionally, should the Lakers choose to pursue the likes of Andre Iguodala, Rudy Gay, Steve Nash or Tony Parker, Odom would be included in any deal. He is just the type of consistent and hardworking player that every team craves.

 As hard to admit as it may be, moving Odom may become a necessity in the Lakers plans to become serious contenders. Kobe is aging and will not be around much longer, and Los Angeles needs someone in place for when that time comes, as well as to make the rest of Kobe’s time in the league full of purpose.

Look for the Lakers to acquire a sharpshooter who relieves the scoring burden off Kobe and will still be there to pick up more of the burden when the time comes for Bryant to retire.

Prediction: Lamar Odom to Golden States Warriors

Carlos Boozer of the Chicago Bulls

The Chicago Bulls may be shopping Carlos Boozer after his subpar playoffs performance this season.

On the season, Boozer averaged 17.5 points and 9.6 rebounds, but he struggled in the playoffs and has always been a liability on the defensive end of the ball. As a result, his name has come up in trade talks.

Alex Kennedy of HOOPSWORLD reported that not only would the Bulls shop Boozer, but that Orlando could be a potential suitor. He also wrote that Dwight Howard has made it “very clear” to Otis Smith that he would like to play with Boozer.

Outside of the Magic though, no other strong reports have surfaced. Teams like Philadelphia and the Warriors could become interested, but because of Boozer’s contract, that is unlikely.

If Howard really feels that strongly about Boozer, than Orlando will certainly pursue him. However, unlike the Hawks in regards to Josh Smith, the Bulls are not strictly looking for a salary dump. Boozer can still help Chicago win, meaning they will look for actual value in return.

And the Magic are lacking in the assets department.

Prediction: Carlos Boozer Remains with Chicago Bulls

Andre Iguodala of the Philadelphia 76ers

Andre Iguodala is a name that is present on the trading block for what seems like season after season, yet he is still with the Philadelphia 76ers.

But for how much longer?

The most serious rumor involving Iguodala came courtesy of ESPN The Magazine’s Ric Bucher, who reported the 76ers were exploring a deal that would send their star guard to Golden State for the likes of leading scorer Monta Ellis.

Iguodala, who averaged 13.8 points, 6.2 assists, 5.6 rebounds and 1.5 steals per game last season would be an offensive drop off for the Warriors, but new head coach Mark Jackson’s focus is defense, and he certainly fits that bill.

The proposed deal seemed to have serious credibility, yet talks seemed to die down even before the NBA lockout became official.

Other teams like the Lakers, who remain active in any trade negotiations, could get involved, but such organizations may leery of taking on Iguodala’s contract.

Aside from the Ellis trade, there seem to be nothing of legitimacy out there at this time. Philadelphia would pull the trigger on an Ellis deal immediately, but the Warriors may not revisit talks once the lockout is over.

So how much longer will Iguodala be in Philly? 

At least another year.

Prediction: Andre Iguodala Remains with Philadelphia 76ers

Monta Ellis of the Golden State Warriors

Monta Ellis has proven to be a scoring machine during his time with the Golden State Warriors, but with new coach Mark Jackson emphasizing defense, he is believed to be on the trading block.

Additionally, the Warriors used the 11th overall pick of the 2011 NBA draft to select shooting guard Klay Thompson, which further indicates Ellis may be on the move.

Stephen Curry has publicly stated he wants Ellis to stay, but this may not turn out to be the case, as Golden State’s backcourt is becoming awfully crowded.

Last season, Ellis averaged 24.1 points and 5.6 assists per game, but he still drew criticism for his shot selection. He did seem to become a more unselfish player yet still has some growing to do in that area.

As the previous noted, Ellis has been mentioned in talks with the 76ers and Andre Iguodala, but those talks have died down. The Los Angeles Lakers remain interested in Ellis though, as they search for a star to pair with Kobe.

Ken Berger of CBSSPORTS.com, reported just before the draft that the two sides were in negotiations that would land Ellis in Los Angeles and Lamar Odom and Shannon Brown in Golden State.

Talks are non-existent now obviously during the lockout, however they could resume once it is over.

Other teams like the Bulls and Knicks who have possible hole at shooting guard could enter the fold, but Chicago may be hesitant to give up anything of real value and the Knicks may still prefer the Chris Paul route.

There is still a possibility that Ellis remains in Golden State. However, should the lockout end in time, the Warriors will look to move the star point guard quickly.

And if that turns out to be the case, the Lakers will be first in line.

Prediction: Monta Ellis to Los Angeles Lakers

Tony Parker of the San Antonio Spurs

Tony Parker’s name has been among the top trade rumors ever since he publicly stated that the San Antonio Spurs were no longer championship contenders.

Parker was on the trading block last season as well but wound up inking a four-year, $50 million extension this past fall. This same extension makes it harder for the Spurs to find a taker for the 29-year-old point guard.

Last season, Parker averaged 17.5 points and 6.6 assists per game. He has been an integral part of San Antonio’s offense since they drafted him back in 2001.

Parker has been linked to a number of teams. Before the draft, rumors were swirling that had him being a part of potential deals with the Sacrament Kings, Portland Trail Blazers and Toronto Raptors. However, no such-draft day deal came to fruition.

The New York Knicks have also been mentioned in the Parker saga. However, in a video posted courtesy of the New York Post, Parker, along with Steve Nash, pretty much dismisses the possibility of playing in New York.

Other teams that could come into play here are the Lakers, who are in need of an upgrade over the ever aging Derek Fisher, the Warriors, who may be shopping Monta Ellis and could use a capable point guard alongside Stephen Curry, or even the Magic who are looking for anyone who may help keep Dwight Howard in Orlando.

Ultimately though, the Spurs will not be able to find an adequate return on Parker. Tim Duncan is aging, and San Antonio wants to remain relevant as long as he is playing, which they know that they can do with Parker.

Prediction: Tony Parker Remains with San Antonio Spurs

Steve Nash of the Phoenix Suns

Steve Nash has been a name that has been thrown around a lot in trade rumors and speculation since last season’s conclusion.

Nash has been most heavily linked to the Knicks, who inquired about his availability back in June, but their solely enticing asset was Chauncey Billups’ expiring contract.

However, Nash’s contract also expires at next year’s end, so a straight up deal would make no sense for Phoenix.

Other teams like the Los Angeles Lakers who are in desperate need of making a move could come into play. Also, with Monta Ellis on the block, could consider getting into the mix.

However, the Knicks remain the most likely destination for Nash. After New York drafted Iman Shumpert, who drew high praise and interest from Phoenix, they gained the ability to offer a more enticing package.

Shumpert was rated higher than Jimmer Fredette on Phoenix’s list and the Suns reportedly even considered drafting Shumpert with the 13th overall pick in the draft but opted against making such a reach.

If interest was that strong in Shumpert from the Suns’ camp, then a package of him and Billups would most certainly be enough to pry Nash out of Phoenix should they decide to move him and his 14.7 points and 11.4 assists per game.

As previously seen, Nash dismisses the possibility of landing in New York, but he may come to find that he is mistaken.

Prediction: Steve Nash to New York Knicks Knicks

Dwight Howard of the Orlando Magic

Orlando Magic superstar Dwight Howard has been a name that has been linked to almost the whole league because of his sheer presence and ability to become a free agent next summer.

Every team in the league would be interesting in acquiring Howard and his 22.9 points, 14.1 rebounds and 2.4 blocks per game, but his situation is very complex. He has all the leverage in negotiations and therefore would have to approve the location.

Teams like the Warriors could dangle Monta Ellis, but Golden State may not be a market he is interested in playing in. The same goes for teams like the Oklahoma City Thunder, who could put together a package of Russell Westbrook and some fillers.

Bigger market teams are likely to catch Howard’s attention most. The Knicks, Bulls, Lakers and even Nets are teams that he would almost certainly approve a trade to.

Back in June, Bill Paschke of the Los Angeles Times reported that the Lakers should trade Lamar Odom and Andrew Bynum to the Magic for Howard, which has prompted many of the trade rumors involving Los Angeles.

The Lakers are looking for a second star to pair with Kobe Bryant, and Howard is their preference because of his value as a center.

However, the Bulls are also team that Howard has also been linked to. Michael Wilbon of ESPN even endorses Chicago’s pursuit of the star center.

The Bulls could put together a package with Joakim Noah as the centerpiece, which should be enough to at least peak the Magic’s interest. However, Orlando may insist on including Deng as well, which could prove to be a deal breaker.

Yet another viable team who may pursue Howard’s services are the New Jersey Nets, who are looking for players to put around Deron Williams in an attempt to keep him as they prepare to move to Brooklyn.

According to ESPN.com’s Marc Stein, the Nets are going to make a hard push to make a Howard and Williams pairing a reality. And there is an argument to be made that Brook Lopez, draft picks and another piece or two would be enough to catch the Magic’s eye.

There is also the notion floating around that Howard will remain in Orlando. Unfortunately, guys like Josh Smith and Carlos Boozer, whom the Magic have been linked to, are not enough to get Howard to sign an extension.

After the LeBron James ordeal last year, Orlando cannot keep Howard unless he signs a deal. And he won’t sign a deal unless the team acquires another adequate star.

As a result, he probably gets traded. And with all the leverage in negotiations, he will most likely push to be sent to a team with a younger superstar.

Most may believe he winds up with the Lakers, but I believe Kobe's aging body will be a major concern for Howard.

Prediction: Dwight Howard to New Jersey Nets