NBA Trade Talk: Josh Smith and 5 Players the New Jersey Nets Should Target

In order for the Nets to keep Deron Williams around, they’re going to need to bring in enough talent to keep him happy. With Kris Humphries potentially leaving via free agency and a massive hole at the small forward position, there are certain guys the Nets could trade for that could instantly transform them into a contender.

No moves will be made until the lockout ends, and some of these guys are already in admirable situations, but anything could happen. The Nets are going to desperately want to keep Williams around. If guys like Dwight Howard aren’t available, acquiring one of these five would be the next best thing.

5. Roy Hibbert, Indiana Pacers

Roy Hibbert had his coming out party in 2010-2011. He set career highs in PPG, blocks and rebounds and showed great durability, starting in 80 games.

He’s only 24 years old and has an extremely high basketball IQ for his age.  He cleans up around the rim, and his defense is only improving. He’s from Queens, New York and would likely jump at the opportunity to play in New York when the Nets move to the new arena.

Hibbert could potentially move in exchange for Brook Lopez. Each player is considered to have a high ceiling by scouts, and each could benefit from an exchange of scenery.

4. LaMarcus Aldridge, Portland Trailblazers

LaMarcus Aldridge would be the perfect replacement for Kris Humphries, should Humphries leave via free agency this offseason. He’s extremely athletic for his size and an excellent scoring option around the basket.

At 6’11”, Aldridge could help elevate Brook Lopez into one of the league’s elite. The combination of the two big men down low would be extremely difficult for opposing defenses to contest.  Aldridge also gives excellent effort on defense and is constantly improving.

The Trailblazers aren’t very likely to part with their young forward. However, the Nets have the young pieces to make almost any move a possibility.

3. Josh Smith, Atlanta Hawks

Josh Smith is a freak athlete and would bring electrifying dunks to New Jersey, the likes of which that haven’t been seen since the departure of Vince Carter. He is a flashy player, but he also brings a well-rounded basketball skill set to the table.

Smith would be an excellent replacement for Kris Humphries and could, alone, be enough talent to keep Deron Williams in a Nets uniform. His presence in the post would help New Jersey for years to come.

The Hawks are still considered a contender, but they may need to rebuild to take the next step. If that’s the direction they decide to go in, then Smith would be one of the most coveted pieces on the market.

2. Danny Granger, Indiana Pacers

Danny Granger has averaged at least 20 PPG in each of his last three seasons for the Pacers. He’s a dynamic scorer and would fill the Nets apparent hole at small forward.

Some scouts are concerned that Granger has already reached his ceiling, but he remains one of the better small forwards in the league. If Granger can’t get better on his own, Deron Williams could take him to the next level.

The versatility of Granger makes him an extremely intriguing target. The Pacers like Danny, but for the right price, he could move if they feel he’s done improving.

1. Luol Deng, Chicago Bulls

The Nets’ needs at small forward are undeniable.  Travis Outlaw has been a terrible investment since signing last offseason, and Stephen Graham is not an NBA starter. 

Luol Deng would provide New Jersey with much-needed consistency at the position.  Deng is solid in all facets of the game. His mid-range jumper has been excellent, and he seems to be constantly improving his range. On defense, Deng can hang with the league’s best.  His length gives him an advantage over many of the league’s other contributors at the position.

Deng would be an excellent target for Deron Williams and would instantly improve a suspect New Jersey defense. He’s also a great teammate and could be moved if Chicago wants to free up cap space for a more aggressive scorer.

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