NBA Draft Rumors: Breaking Down Latest Trade Speculation Surrounding 2012 Draft

The 2012 NBA draft is drawing nearer and a number of franchises are looking to make a splash by either trading for a pick or flipping theirs before the event.

There is always a ton of movement—via sold selections, pick swapping and trades for established players—during the draft. It should be no different this year.

Let’s take a look at some potential trades that are being rumored around the league right now.

Charlotte Bobcats Trying to Trade No. 2

Alex Kennedy of HoopsWorld is reporting that the Bobcats have clearly made the second overall selection available. They have been in talks with a number of teams and are looking to bring back a young star like Rudy Gay or James Harden that could make an immediate impact.

If they don’t find a suitable deal, Kennedy found it is likely the franchise will select Thomas Robinson.

Chicago Bulls Want in Lottery

Sam Smith of Bulls.com has heard talk that Chicago is attempting to move into the lottery by flipping Luol Deng for a top pick. They would be doing this for cap relief that would allow them to sign a veteran guard as well as get an elite prospect like Bradley Beal or Harrison Barnes.

Some possible partners that Smith mentioned would be the Kings, which own the No. 5, and the Rockets, which possess Nos. 14 and 16.

Oklahoma City Thunder Like No. 28

There has been lots of talk that OKC does not want to bring in another prospect with their late first-rounder and were trying hard to trade it.

Steve Kyler of HoopsWorld is refuting that claim and has “well placed Thunder sources” that have stated the organization will likely keep the pick.

Oklahoma City is down 2-1 in the 2012 NBA Finals against the Miami Heat right now, but Thunder scouts and GM Sam Presti must still diligently prepare for the draft.