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One Player from Every NBA Team Who Needs to Change Teams to Fulfill Potential

Maxwell OgdenJun 1, 2018

The NBA is a land of great opportunity. If you prove worthy of such a chance to thrive, the rewards could be limitless.

Unfortunately, that moment of glory may never come for some unlucky players.

Whether they're stuck behind established stars or simply undervalued by the coaching staff, a select few could go through their careers in a manner that does not properly reflect their abilities. This will lead to nothing short of disappointment for athletes who deserve greater appreciation.

Here's a list of one player that fits that bill from each NBA team.

Atlanta Hawks

1 of 30

Player: Jeff Teague

Position: Point Guard

Age: 24

Reason for Relocation

Jeff Teague is a relatively young player who was thrust into the starting role in 2012 after starting a combined 10 games in 2010 and 2011. He had questionable point guard skills and was expected to be the facilitator for a team that had made three consecutive Eastern Conference Semi-Finals appearances.

As expected, Jeff Teague and the Atlanta Hawks fell short of what was expected of them.

Although Teague had a solid stat line, he never looked comfortable running point. Even more important than the fact that he's a player with a score-first mentality is the unfortunate truth that he's never had a true mentor at the position.

Praise Kirk Hinrich all you'd like, but he just isn't the kind of guy who will breed a legitimate point guard.

Due to this fact, Jeff Teague would certainly benefit from relocating and finding himself a teacher at the position. A pass-first veteran would do wonders for Teague as Andre Miller has for Ty Lawson. The athletically gifted Wake Forest alum would also not have to deal with a position battle.

It's hard to imagine Teague not suffering a decrease in minutes if Devin Harris and Lou Williams turn it up this season.

2012 Season Averages

15.83 PER, 12.6 PPG, 4.9 APG, 2.4 RPG, 1.6 SPG

Boston Celtics

2 of 30

Player: Brandon Bass

Position: Power Forward

Age: 27

Reason for Relocation

During the Boston Celtics' 2012 postseason series against their division rival Philadelphia 76ers, Brandon Bass was the most consistent player on the roster. While some may have had great games, Bass was the only Celtic to score in double-figures in each of the series' first five games, including a 27 point outburst that guided the Celtics to a critical victory in Game 5.

He also threw in 16 points during the deciding Game 7.

Once the NBA Eastern Conference Finals rolled around, however, the ball stopped going Brandon Bass' way. Boston was more inclined to rely on their superstars than continue their "whoever is open" approach. This became a trend throughout the season as Paul Pierce, Ray Allen and Kevin Garnett would all register double-digit shot attempts, regardless of how poorly they shot.

Ignoring how well Brandon Bass always seemed to be playing.

Should Bass end up elsewhere, he could become the player his abilities suggest. He has legitimate all-star talent and could put together a season that mirrors another undersized 4: Paul Millsap of the Utah Jazz.

Throw in the fact that rookie Jared Sullinger is hot on his heels and you have a player in need of a relocation.

2012 Season Averages

14.21 PER, 12.5 PPG, 6.2 RPG, 0.9 BPG

Brooklyn Nets

3 of 30

Player: Tornike Shengelia

Position: Forward

Age: 20

Reason for Relocation

Tornike Shengelia is entering a promising situation. The Brooklyn Nets have a solid international fan base and could offer Shengelia a quality mentor in either Gerald Wallace or Kris Humphries. What they cannot offer Shengelia, however, is a guarantee of playing time.

Wallace, Humphries, Reggie Evans and Mirza Teletovic have all made sure of that.

While many will view Tornike Shengelia as a project player, that's more of a reaction to the fact that the average fan has never seen him play. Shengelia is, in fact, much more NBA-ready than a majority of the players taken before him in the 2012 NBA Draft.

He simply won't be able to prove that in the foreseeable future should he remain with the Nets.

A change of scenery, however, could open the door for an increase in minutes. Minutes that Tornike Shengelia is more than capable of making the best of.

2012 Season Averages

N/A

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Charlotte Bobcats

4 of 30

Player: Tyrus Thomas

Position: Power Forward

Age: 25

Reason for Relocation

The term 'bust' has become synonymous with Tyrus Thomas. Another term to describe Thomas, however, could be 'freakish,' for his unbelievable athleticism and supreme shot blocking abilities.

For evidence, check the only month that Tyrus Thomas saw consistent playing time in 2012: January. Thomas averaged 7.5 points, 5.0 rebounds and 2.1 blocks on a fluctuating rate of 28.2 minutes per contest.

Could we be writing Thomas off too soon? Could the still young power forward have a solid career left in him? After watching Tyson Chandler go from 6.5 points and 6.2 rebounds per game with Charlotte in 2010 to Defensive Player of the Year with New York in 2012, anything is possible.

When given the minutes, Thomas has always posted solid numbers. While he isn't a big scorer, he alters shots and controls the glass in a respected manner. He also goes all-out when he feels wanted, something Charlotte has been unable to offer.

The defensive specialist could contribute elsewhere. All he needs is a combination of solid minutes and an actual mentor as he turns his promising career around.

2012 Season Averages

9.06 PER, 18.8 MPG, 5.6 PPG, 3.7 RPG, 1.1 BPG

Chicago Bulls

5 of 30

Player: Taj Gibson

Position: Forward

Age: 27

Reason for Relocation

Many have predicted that Taj Gibson's breakout season will come in 2013. Unless Carlos Boozer gives up some playing time or is on his way out via the amnesty clause, it's unlikely that we'll see anything different than we did in 2012.

Kyle Korver's absence will create more opportunities for Gibson to play the 3, but that simply won't be enough. A great season for a reserve is all he'll be able to post as his true potential will, once again, go unmet.

Until Taj Gibson starts, that will not change.

With a change of scenery, Taj Gibson would receive the opportunity necessary for him to shine. His budding offensive game, which includes a much improved mid-range game and a ferocious attack of the basket, would make him an instant fan favorite. Gibson's tenacious defense and brutal blocks would only add to the appeal.

Most importantly, they'd make Taj Gibson what he's capable of being: a star.

2012 Season Averages

16.90 PER, 20.4 MPG, 7.7 PPG, 5.3 RPG, 1.3 BPG

Cleveland Cavaliers

6 of 30

Player: Samardo Samuels

Position: Power Forward

Age: 23

Reason for Relocation

Samardo Samuels had a disappointing second season, failing to contribute in the inconsistent playing time he found behind Antawn Jamison, Tristan Thompson and Anderson Varejao. His strong finish to the 2011 regular season instantly lost its value.

While Samuels is far from a future star, he is a young player with an NBA-ready body. He's also a guy who is capable of putting up solid numbers and playing a significant role in a contender's rotation.

With rookie Tyler Zeller added to an already promising frontcourt, such an opportunity lacks for Samardo Samuels in Cleveland.

The low-post powerhouse is not very reliable on the defensive end of the floor and lacks the necessary foot speed to go beyond his brute force on offense. With that being said, Samuels is the type of second unit player who could put up 10 points on any given night when given the chance to play.

A change of scenery would grant him that opportunity.

2012 Season Averages

11.13 PER, 15.3 MPG, 5.4 PPG, 3.3 RPG

Dallas Mavericks

7 of 30

Player: Dominique Jones

Position: Guard

Age: 23

Reason for Relocation

Dominique Jones is a versatile guard who has the size to play the 2 and ball handling skills to run point. Unfortunately, Jones is stuck behind the recently signed O.J. Mayo and competing with first round draft choice Jared Cunningham for second unit playing time.

Throw in the presence of Darren Collison and Rodrigue Beaubois at the point, and you have a player searching for chances; a search that shouldn't be this difficult for a player of Jones' caliber.

Dominique Jones wowed viewers during the Summer League games. He displayed elite scoring ability and a much-improved stroke from distance. Pair that with his overwhelming upper body strength and blazing quickness and you've got yourself an offensive star in the making.

The former USF star is not just a scorer, though. Jones possesses elite rebounding skills for his position and a solid enough passer to start at the point guard position for a team. He also has the activity in the passing lanes to make a difference on D.

Should Jones find a new home, thus receiving more consistent playing time, his star potential could be met.

2012 Season Averages

11.87 PER, 8.1 MPG, 2.7 PPG, 1.3 APG, 1.3 RPG

Denver Nuggets

8 of 30

Player: Quincy Miller

Position: Small Forward

Age: 19

Reason for Relocation

Quincy Miller hasn't even hit the court yet, but what are the Denver Nuggets expecting here? Where will Miller fit in behind both Danilo Gallinari and Wilson Chandler? Is he a lock to steal playing time from Corey Brewer?

No matter how you cut it, this kid is buried beneath highly paid talent. Talent that is hardly older than he, which proves an important point: if George Karl isn't hands on with Quincy Miller, the 'JaVale McGee experiment' may be a failure in this instance.

Miller is an outstanding prospect due to his size, unbelievable length and athleticism. Some have compared him to Kevin Durant as a result of that combination, which is a tremendous but not unrealistic estimation.

Unfortunately for Denver, the lack of opportunity and veteran presence will lead to Quincy Miller failing to reach his full potential. Should he opt to sign elsewhere once his rookie contract expires, however, Miller could maximize his star potential.

Keep a close eye on the former Baylor Bear.

2012 Season Averages

N/A

Detroit Pistons

9 of 30

Player: Austin Daye

Position: Small Forward

Age: 24

Reason for Relocation

Austin Daye is a 6'11" small forward with solid enough athleticism to fit the position. He's also stuck behind Tayshaun Prince, Corey Maggette and rookie Khris Middleton on the depth chart. No playing time is available in Detroit.

After putting up solid averages of 7.5 points and 3.8 rebounds in 20.1 minutes per game during the 2011 season, many had high hopes. Daye had shot 40.1 percent from distance and displayed a level of upside that had many believing the Detroit Pistons had found their successor to Tayshaun Prince.

A horrendous 2012 campaign, which saw a major decrease in playing time and production, it appears as if the Pistons have moved on from that original belief.

While Daye may not have a great track record, he has the size and shooting ability to contribute to any team. Should a franchise take a risk on him, they'll likely discover just that.

Don't count Austin Daye out just yet.

2012 Season Averages

7.19 PER, 14.7 MPG, 4.7 PPG, 2.2 RPG, 21.0% 3PT

Golden State Warriors

10 of 30

Player: Jeremy Tyler

Position: Forward

Age: 21

Reason for Relocation

Towards the end of the 2012 NBA regular season, Jeremy Tyler began to fill up the stat sheet and show the world what he's made of. In 2013, all of that will come to an end as David Lee will now be paired with Carl Landry at the 4.

Two of the worst interior defenders in the NBA.

If Jeremy Tyler wants to become a one-dimensional player, this is a perfect situation for him to stay in. He's athletic enough that adding a legitimate mid-range game could make him a fan favorite in the way that Josh Smith had been before he found a defensive touch. Chances are, Tyler will be looking for more than just scoring.

If the grounded Andrew Bogut can take Tyler under his wing, of course, this experiment could work. It could also backfire, however, as Bogut plays a different position and is built physically in a way that differs from what Jeremy Tyler may be capable of.

A move to a team with a more experienced head coach could also do wonders for the young athlete.

2012 Season Averages

10.46 PER, 13.5 MPG, 4.9 PPG, 3.3 RPG, 0.5 BPG

Houston Rockets

11 of 30

Player: Marcus Morris

Position: Forward

Age: 22

Reason for Relocation

When your coach doesn't believe in you, there really isn't a logical option outside of finding a new place to play. As is life for Marcus Morris, who found the bench early and the D-League directly following the delegation during the 2012 regular season.

Don't let the turbulent season steer you in the wrong direction, though; Marcus Morris is ready for the NBA.

Morris has an excellent mid-range jump shot and is as good as any young player at using the glass. He's also a rugged player who plays physical defense and possesses the physical necessities to play both the 3 and 4.

The issue for Morris will be defining his position.

Although his wingspan is shorter than desired, he has the strength and interior toughness to play the 4. Morris also has the athleticism and quickness necessary to play the 3, with his solid mid-range jump shot serving as a reliable weapon in his arsenal.

As long as he gets out of Houston, where Chandler Parsons and Royce White will control playing time at the 3, Marcus Morris can show just that.

2012 Season Averages

3.85 PER, 7.4 MPG, 2.4 PPG, 0.9 RPG

Indiana Pacers

12 of 30

Player: Gerald Green

Position: Small Forward

Age: 26

Reason for Relocation

When Gerald Green signed with the Indiana Pacers this offseason, many were taken by surprise. The reason for this shock is the fact that Green has the talent to start in the NBA right now.

He also has a solid 2012 campaign to build off of.

In 31 games with the then New Jersey Nets, Green averaged 12.9 points, 3.5 rebounds and 0.9 steals. He also shot 48.1 percent from the floor and 39.1 from distance. Throw in the fact that Gerald Green is now paired with the term 'monster dunk' and you have what could be a franchise player.

At the least, you have a starter in the NBA.

Green improved his game in a major way while playing in the D-League, improving his jump shot and becoming a much greater defender than he was in 2009, his most recent season in the NBA. This should make him a starter, but instead, he's poised to back up Danny Granger in Indiana.

2012 Season Averages

15.88 PER, 25.2 MPG, 12.9 PPG, 3.5 RPG, 0.9 SPG, 39.1% 3PT

Los Angeles Clippers

13 of 30

Player: Eric Bledsoe

Position: Point Guard

Age: 22

Reason for Relocation

If Eric Bledsoe intends on spending one or two more seasons under Chris Paul's wing, then he's making a brilliant move. After that, however, Bledsoe must get as far as he possibly can from the moniker of backup point guard.

The athletically gifted Kentucky alum proved what he was worth during the postseason. His energy was remarkable and defense smothering. His 23 points in Game 1 of the Western Conference Semi-Finals are evidence of such. His insignificant statistical performances against the Memphis Grizzlies, however, are what meant most.

The ability to breathe life into a motionless offense is incredibly undervalued.

As for what he's capable of doing in 2013, Bledsoe could be a contender for Sixth Man of the Year. Unfortunately, he won't receive the opportunity; not after the Los Angeles Clippers' active, backcourt-padding offseason.

With the addition of Chauncey Billups and Jamal Crawford, it appears as if the Clippers are not so trusting of Bledsoe's abilities just yet. Time to find a team who does before you're stuck behind Chris Paul for the remainder of his career, Eric Bledsoe.

2012 Season Averages

11.24 PER, 11.6 MPG, 3.3 PPG, 1.7 APG, 1.6 RPG, 0.8 SPG

Los Angeles Lakers

14 of 30

Player: Darius Morris

Position: Point Guard

Age: 21

Reason for Relocation

Darius Morris did not see the floor very often during his rookie season. In 2013, that trend is unlikely to change as two-time MVP Steve Nash takes over the starting role in Los Angeles and Steve Blake remains the second unit floor general.

Quite the head-puzzling decision, as Morris' size, athleticism and ball handling is exactly what the Los Angeles Lakers' reserves need.

At 6'4", Darius Morris is bigger than the average point guard. He's also a strongly-built player who runs the floor well and can finish in traffic. While his passing skills must improve, his taking over the second unit and working with Steve Nash could be exactly what the Lakers need.

With all due respect to Steve Blake, Morris would also a major upgrade.

The Lakers have needed size and athleticism on the perimeter. They've also needed a second unit facilitator who can conduct an offense to a respectable level. While Morris may be raw, he's the perfect player to have run behind Steve Nash.

But Steve Blake? C'mon man.

2012 Season Averages

5.22 PER, 8.2 MPG, 2.4 PPG, 1.1 APG

Memphis Grizzlies

15 of 30

Player: Marreese Speights

Position: Center

Age: 24

Reason for Relocation

The Memphis Grizzlies are a good fit for Marreese Speights, as he actually plays well in the role of reserve big. With that being said, it's hard to understand why the 24-year-old would sign a two-year deal with the team with no signs of starting on the horizon.

Speights has an outstanding mid-range jump shot and the combination of size and strength necessary to take over a game. Unfortunately, he has always been an underwhelming defender and has never been able to find consistent playing time in Philadelphia or Memphis.

This makes the two-year deal slightly more understandable. Nevertheless, a one-year deal seems better fit for a player searching for an opportunity to start and carve out a role as the team's go-to big.

Unless Zach Randolph goes down with yet another injury, Marreese Speights does not appear likely to receive that opportunity in Memphis.

2012 Season Averages

14.12 PER, 22.4 MPG, 8.8 PPG, 6.2 RPG

Miami Heat

16 of 30

Player: Norris Cole

Position: Point Guard

Age: 23

Reason for Relocation

Norris Cole was a key contributor to the Miami Heat's title run in 2012. His energy and increased defensive effort was huge in every game he played. His ability to put the ball on the floor and drive was equally as valuable.

Unfortunately, Cole is stuck on a depth chart in which Mario Chalmers and LeBron James serve as the point guard and point forward. In other words, the former Cleveland State star will never be anything more than a role player on the Miami Heat.

Staying with the team for another year is wise, as Cole is benefiting greatly from the veteran leadership of Chalmers, James and Dwyane Wade. Beyond 2013, however, Cole cannot fool himself into believing that he'd be best off with Miami.

While the rings would be more likely to pile up with the Heat than with any other team, playing time and opportunity should play an equal role in his decision-making. The opportunity to start elsewhere and carve out a solid career cannot be passed up.

2012 Season Averages

7.99 PER, 19.4 MPG, 6.8 PPG, 2.0 APG, 1.4 RPG, 0.7 SPG

Milwaukee Bucks

17 of 30

Player: Ekpe Udoh

Position: Power Forward

Age: 25

Reason for Relocation

With the Golden State Warriors, Ekpe Udoh was rapidly developing into a premier young interior defender. With the Milwaukee Bucks, Udoh finds himself fighting for playing time with Ersan Ilyasova, John Henson and Larry Sanders.

Not the ideal move for one of the more promising forwards in the game.

Should Ekpe Udoh find himself elsewhere, he'd be able to continue his rapid development. He's already one of the better shot blockers in the game and has improved his mid-range jump shot tremendously. While he still has plenty of room to grow, Ekpe Udoh could be a legitimate contributor to a contending franchise.

Unfortunately, that opportunity is unlikely to come with the Milwaukee Bucks. Time to relocate and revitalize your career, Mr. Udoh.

2012 Season Averages

12.49 PER, 21.1 MPG, 5.6 PPG, 4.2 RPG, 1.7 BPG

Minnesota Timberwolves

18 of 30

Player: Derrick Williams

Position: Forward

Age: 21

Reason for Relocation

After the umpteenth trade rumor, you'd think that Derrick Williams and the Minnesota Timberwolves would have parted ways. Apparently not, as the 2011 NBA Draft's second overall draft choice remains under contract and in limbo.

At the small forward position, Williams will be competing for playing time with Chase Budinger and Andrei Kirilenko. At the power forward position, Williams will not start a single game unless Kevin Love gets injured. Regardless of how you cut it, Derrick Williams is the odd man out.

With tension rising and the term "poor situation" a pure understatement, Derrick Williams has every reason to want a trade. In fact, Williams should be begging for a trade as another franchise offers him the opportunity he deserves.

Don't forget, it's the Timberwolves who have hung him out to dry. It's not he who has done the trashing of public images.

2012 Season Averages

12.98 PER, 21.5 MPG, 8.8 PPG, 4.7 RPG

New Orleans Hornets

19 of 30

Player: Xavier Henry

Position: Shooting Guard

Age: 21

Reason for Relocation

Xavier Henry was selected 12th overall in the 2010 NBA Draft. Henry was praised for his length, exceptional jump shooting and an uncanny ability to finish strong at the rim. Through two seasons in the NBA, however, not very many positive traits have translated.

The former Kansas Jayhawk has averaged just 4.9 points per game throughout his career, shooting less than 40 percent from the floor and just 26.5 from distance. While his inability to remain in shape has played a major role in these struggles, there is no way around how bad a fit New Orleans truly is.

Eric Gordon is going to command a significant amount of playing time at the 2. Austin Rivers is also likely to spend time at the position, which doesn't leave much playing time to be sent Xavier Henry's way. More importantly, it doesn't offer Henry a veteran presence to point him in the right direction.

No matter how you cut it, Xavier Henry should not be in New Orleans. With his unique combination of length, athleticism and shooting ability, Henry deserves the chance to fight for minutes on a team with veterans.

2012 Season Averages

9.24 PER, 16.9 MPG, 5.3 PPG, 2.4 RPG, 0.6 SPG

New York Knicks

20 of 30

Player: Pablo Prigioni

Position: Point Guard

Age: 35

Reason for Relocation

Pablo Prigioni is a dark horse contender for Rookie of the Year and is more than capable of taking playing time away from both Jason Kidd and Raymond Felton. He's also in a situation where he begins his career at 35 years of age and ranked third on the depth chart.

Signing somewhere else may have been a better option for Argentina's elite assist man.

Prigioni is not in a situation to learn from a veteran; aside from being 35, he's also experienced in play against NBA players. Instead, Prigioni should be competing for the starting role on a team while settling for nothing short of the second unit point guard.

Instead, he's stuck behind an aging player whose name and contract outweigh his abilities in Jason Kidd. He's also stuck behind a player who could return to the stellar form he displayed when last with the Knicks in Raymond Felton.

Not a promising situation for Prigioni, no matter how talented he may be.

2012 Season Averages

N/A

Oklahoma City Thunder

21 of 30

Player: Reggie Jackson

Position: Point Guard

Age: 22

Reason for Relocation

It's far too early in Reggie Jackson's career to define his upside. It is not too soon to determine what a bad career situation looks like, however, and that is what Jackson is in.

Ahead of the former Boston College star are youngsters Russell Westbrook and Eric Maynor, who have both earned security in the Oklahoma City Thunder lineup. Considering each are upside-ridden players who have proven their current worth, the chances Jackson finds playing time are slim to none.

Not the greatest situation for a young player in need of a veteran presence.

While this is not to propose Reggie Jackson has star potential, it is an acknowledgement of his exceptional athletic ability and knack for finishing in the paint. Should he find a veteran presence to guide him through the early stages of his career, that could lead to more than just a few Summer League highlight reels.

2012 Season Averages

9.22 PER, 11.1 MPG, 3.1 PPG, 1.6 APG, 1.2 RPG

Orlando Magic

22 of 30

Player: Glen Davis

Position: Power Forward

Age: 26

Reason for Relocation

Glen Davis was outstanding during the first round of the 2012 NBA postseason. Against the Indiana Pacers' dominant interior defense, David posted averages of 19.0 points and 9.0 rebounds per game. He kept each game competitive and was a key player in the Magic's shocking Game 1 victory.

And the Orlando Magic have done nothing but undervalue the man they call Big Baby.

During the 2012 NBA Draft, the Magic selected power forward Andrew Nicholson out of St. Bonaventure. They also acquired Gustavo Ayon this offseason and seemingly value the upside of 22-year-old Justin Harper. As solid a unit as that may sound, it does one thing that cannot be overlooked.

The insurgence of depth begins the slow process of pushing Glen Davis out of the rotation.

While Davis may not have many believers, he deserves a leap of faith. He's a notoriously great postseason performer and made significant strides in 2012 once his playing time became more consistent. Unfortunately, that playing time will once again fluctuate in Orlando.

2012 Season Averages

13.28 PER, 23.4 MPG, 9.3 PPG, 5.4 RPG, 0.7 SPG

Philadelphia 76ers

23 of 30

Player: Thaddeus Young

Position: Forward

Age: 24

Reason for Relocation

Since breaking out during the 2011 NBA Playoffs, Thaddeus Young has been one of the best role players in the NBA. His combination of length and athleticism make him an excellent defender and unstoppable matchup, while his much improved motor and tenacity suggest top tier performances in a greater volume of minutes.

Unfortunately, Young's 'best player' talent is about to go to waste in Philadelphia.

The small forward position for the Philadelphia 76ers includes Andre Iguodala, rookie Maurice Harkless and sharpshooter Dorrell Wright. The 4 has youngsters Lavoy Allen and Arnett Moultrie, which proposes a question that Philly fans dread to hear: "Is Thaddeus Young better off with another franchise?"

The answer is simple. The answer is yes.

2012 Season Averages

18.93 PER, 27.9 MPG, 12.8 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 1.2 APG, 1.0 SPG

Phoenix Suns

24 of 30

Player: Kendall Marshall

Position: Point Guard

Age: 20

Reason for Relocation

When the Phoenix Suns selected Kendall Marshall with the 13th overall pick in the 2012 NBA Draft, many began to label him as the second coming of Steve Nash. Now that the Suns have signed Goran Dragic, Marshall has gone from second coming to second unit.

Oh, how the tides have turned.

While Marshall will gain valuable experience from playing under head coach Alvin Gentry, Dragic has far too little experience to be considered a mentor at the position. This leaves Marshall in a questionable situation as he attempts to adjust to the pace of the NBA with a player whose proven work is as inconsistent as any.

Throw in the fact that Marshall has the facilitating abilities to start right off of the bat and you've got yourself a poor fit. Kendall Marshall needs to find a new home.

2012 Season Averages

N/A

Portland Trail Blazers

25 of 30

Player: Nolan Smith

Position: Guard

Age: 24

Reason for Relocation

Every time we have heard about Nolan Smith, a coach is usually praising him for how smart of a player he is. If it's not that, it's usually a praise of how immensely talented Smith is and how he fits so well at both guard positions.

And it has all led to nothing.

Nolan Smith will play behind rookie Damian Lillard at point guard and the well-rounded Wesley Matthews at the 2. He will also be forced into the point guard position as rookie Will Barton plays at shooting guard. The pressure is mounting and opportunity to start all but gone.

Once the next two seasons pass, Nolan Smith must move on from Portland.

2012 Season Averages

7.82 PER, 3.8 PPG, 1.4 APG, 1.3 RPG

Sacramento Kings

26 of 30

Player: Tyreke Evans

Position: Combo Guard

Age: 22

Reason for Relocation

Where do we begin?

Tyreke Evans is a positionless player who has found serious struggles with the absence of a mentor in Sacramento. His 2010 Rookie of the Year award suggests that he could be a superstar if the phenomenal ball handling and disappointing decision making come together in brilliance.

As a member of the Sacramento Kings, hope is all that can be had. The team has a surplus of point guards and have learned time and time again that Evans is not fit for the position. Marcus Thornton, meanwhile, is a much better fit for the 2 while Evans failed miserably while playing the 3.

Regardless of how impressive his stat line might be, there's only one option left to salvage a very promising career: get Tyreke Evans out of Sacramento as soon as possible.

Evans would benefit greatly from the presence of a veteran mentor and experienced coach. He'd be able to carve out an actual role and position, while altering his style of play according to what fits his team.

Tyreke Evans can still be a superstar. He cannot maximize that potential in Sacramento, though, which means he must go on the move.

2012 Season Averages

16.48 PER, 16.5 PPG, 4.6 RPG, 4.5 APG, 1.3 SPG

San Antonio Spurs

27 of 30

Player: James Anderson

Position: Shooting Guard

Age: 23

Reason for Relocation

This slide will be dedicated to an unrestricted free agent who reportedly wants to return to the San Antonio Spurs. That player, of course, is 23-year-old shooting guard James Anderson.

Since being drafted by the San Antonio Spurs in 2010, Anderson has never found himself on the receiving end of consistent playing time. This is quite the shame, as the former star of the Oklahoma State Cowboys can light up the scoreboard in a variety of ways.

Anderson has a very long wingspan and a sensational jump shot when in rhythm. He's also strong enough off of the dribble and in the paint to finish at the basket. Throw in his disruptive tendencies in passing lanes and you have yourself a player to believe in.

Unfortunately, San Antonio has yet to believe. That's unlikely to change as Manu Ginobili, Stephen Jackson and Daniel Green hold down the shooting guard position.

2012 Season Averages

8.87 PER, 11.8 MPG, 3.7 PPG, 1.5 RPG

Toronto Raptors

28 of 30

Player: Amir Johnson

Position: Center

Age: 25

Reason for Relocation

Amir Johnson may not be a stat sheet stuffer but he certainly filled the paint in 2012. His physicality and nose for the ball helped him average 7.1 points, 6.4 rebounds and 1.1 blocks in just 24.3 minutes per game.

In 2013, it now appears as if the defensive specialist is the odd man out.

Johnson will be stuck in a battle for playing time with Andrea Bargnani, Jonas Valanciunas and Ed Davis. Bargnani is in no position to lose his starting job, while rookie Valanciunas is a Top 5 draft choice and Ed Davis is another young player with loads of promise.

While Johnson would once again thrive in Toronto if the opportunity presented itself, he is hardly guaranteed of that situation. Amir Johnson must get out of Toronto and build his career with a franchise who trusts his abilities.

2012 Season Averages

14.40 PER, 24.3 MPG, 7.1 PPG, 6.4 RPG, 1.1 BPG

Utah Jazz

29 of 30

Player: Gordon Hayward

Position: Guard/Forward

Age: 22

Reason for Relocation

Many Utah Jazz fans will argue that this is preposterous. Others will argue that it's rather premature to already evaluate Gordon Hayward's career with the Utah Jazz. The fact of the matter is, Gordon Hayward cannot maximize his potential with a franchise like Utah.

Not when the Jazz are as frontcourt heavy as they appear to have been in 2012.

Hayward is athletic enough to get out in transition and throw it down for two the quick way. He's also a threat to come up with a steal at any time due to his active hands. That's what happens when you're long, athletic and well-coached.

In Utah, however, it's not just about where their offense focuses. Instead, it's the fact that the Jazz completely overlook how exceptional a ball-handler Hayward could be. As soon as a new franchise does that, Hayward could have a long, safe career.

2012 Season Averages

15.59 PER, 11.8 PPG, 3.5 RPG, 3.5 APG, 0.8 SPG

Washington Wizards

30 of 30

Player: Trevor Booker

Position: Power Forward

Age: 24

Reason for Relocation

The 2012 regular season saw Trevor Booker put together a solid campaign en route to carving out his status as one of the better young rebounders in the league. Although his offensive contributions were limited, Booker was always efficient and made a name for himself on defense.

In 2013, however, playing time does not seem to be available.

Jan Vesely, Kevin Seraphin and Nene will all spend time at 4 with Emeka Okafor joining the frontcourt. This could push Booker into irrelevancy and turn him into a candidate to be moved at the trade deadline.

A move that he should be praying for.

Booker is an excellent option for a contender looking to add a tough interior defender who can crash the boards. Although undersized, he's a solid athlete whose powerful frame creates space in the paint. His energy and nonstop hustle make him all the more attractive.

2012 Season Averages

15.46 PER, 25.2 MPG, 8.4 PPG, 6.5 RPG, 1.0 SPG, 0.9 BPG

What Should LBJ Do Next? 👑

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