Ranking the Top 15 Players on the NBA Trade Block
The next couple of weeks before the NBA trade deadline will feature much buzz about who may be dealt. Who are the top 15 players, such as Pau Gasol and Carmelo Anthony, that are currently on the trade block?
We'll witness players traded for a variety of reasons. Some teams will seek to make a timely acquisition that bolsters their playoff positioning or title push. Other squads will simply be looking to shed salary or stash an extra draft pick.
We should never be surprised at what transpires at the deadline. Sometimes the hype is evident and very little happens. On other occasions, a marquee player is suddenly shipped with little forewarning.
Let's rank who is currently on the trade block and who could very easily be meshing with new teammates in the near future.
Honorable Mention
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Emeka Okafor, Phoenix Suns
There is one simple reason why Emeka Okafor is mentioned here: Money.
Okafor hasn't logged a minute during 2013-14, but he's a noteworthy trade chip because his salary could help a trade get done. He's making $14.4 million this campaign, and his contract expires at the season's conclusion.
What's more, because of his neck injury, an insurance policy is now covering 80 percent of what's remaining on his deal.
A team seeking financial flexibility for the future could desire adding him. This is likely to happen, especially because the Phoenix Suns should be buyers at the deadline, as they're in the thick of the playoff hunt in the Western Conference.
If they can flip Okafor and one of their handful of draft picks, then they could probably acquire a veteran playmaker (or two) who's capable of fortifying their depth chart. Truthfully, the Suns would be foolish to not go this route since they have an asset in Okafor who's alluring from a business standpoint.
We should certainly anticipate him being dealt, especially considering what Yahoo! Sports' Adrian Wojnarowski recently indicated, "All along, the Suns' plans have been to flip Okafor's expiring and insured deal before the trade deadline."
Andre Miller, Denver Nuggets
Andre Miller is not a happy camper with the Denver Nuggets. He hasn't played in over a month after berating coach Brian Shaw.
Since then, a trade has seemed imminent, but a deal has yet to get done. Due to Nate Robinson's recent knee injury, the Nuggets are thin in the backcourt, and it would be ideal if they could swap Miller for a young, serviceable floor general.
It has been reported, according to Sean Deveney of the Sporting News, that the Minnesota Timberwolves and Sacramento Kings are possible destinations for the unhappy Miller.
While Miller is not worthy of starter's minutes at this stage of his career, he could still adequately fill a void in a second unit. He's a veteran who scores in crafty ways and has always been a quality distributor.
If Miller lands somewhere new, it won't be a headline move, but it could still impact a team's potential down the stretch. He's the type of player who could provide some spark—an X-factor who supplies the intangibles.
Rodney Stuckey, Detroit Pistons
Rodney Stuckey possesses an expiring contract, and his scoring prowess could be an asset that a buying team desires.
Stuckey is currently averaging 14.0 points per game for the Detroit Pistons, and he could be a nice fit anywhere where he can emerge as a spark plug off the bench.
It will by no means be a blockbuster move if he's dealt, but his presence could still become a factor if he finds a niche with a playoff-caliber squad.
15. Trevor Ariza, Washington Wizards
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Trevor Ariza boasts an expiring contract and could be an attractive trade chip for buyers at the deadline.
Ariza is piecing together a stellar year and is a threat on both ends of the floor. Plus, he also carries championship experience from the title run he made in 2009 with the Los Angeles Lakers.
Interestingly, it has been reported, according to CSNWashington.com, that the Washington Wizards hope to retain Ariza at season's end.
However, it just doesn't seem logical for the Wizards to not at least consider offers, because Ariza's value on the open market come the summer will likely make him tough to re-sign.
While their tentative plan may be to keep Ariza, don't be surprised if he winds up in a new location because the Wiz receive an offer that's difficult to turn down, especially in view of Ariza's impending free agency.
Rumors surrounding Ariza are definitely worth monitoring over the next couple weeks because they could unsurprisingly change in an instant if Washington suddenly has an enticing offer on their hands.
14. Dion Waiters, Cleveland Cavaliers
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Dion Waiters possesses undeniable offensive skills, but things just aren't working for him with the Cleveland Cavaliers.
His attitude is a growing concern amid the mess that has become the Cavs. Waiters was recently kicked out of a practice, according to Mitch Lawrence of the New York Daily News.
At this point, a trade involving Waiters seems like a must for Cleveland. Steve Kyler of Basketball Insiders reports:
"The Cavaliers are open for business. The two names mentioned most around the league are second year guard Dion Waiters and veteran forward Alonzo Gee. Waiters and lead guard Kyrie Irving has not meshed well together and the Cavs seem to be accepting that moving Waiters has to happen.
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Waiters is in just his second season, and he could blossom into a potent 20 PPG scorer somewhere in the future. But it doesn't look like that place will be Cleveland.
We'll see what the asking price is for Waiters, but the Cavs may eventually have to simply accept the best package they receive. It just doesn't seem like it's a wise maneuver to hold on to Waiters, because things are growing increasingly toxic.
13. Eric Gordon, New Orleans Pelicans
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Eric Gordon is a high-risk, high-reward trade candidate. When he's healthy and playing well, he performs like one of the better shooting guards in the league.
But two major downsides stand in the way: 1) His contract; and 2) His injury history.
According to ShamSports.com, he is owed over $14.3 million this season, $14.9 million during 2014-15 and he carries a player option for $15.5 million during 2015-16. It's almost a guarantee that he'll accept that option.
Therefore, is there anyone willing to take on Gordon's hefty contract, when he's averaging just 15.9 points per game and at times struggles with inefficiency? Plus, when considering his injury history, the thought of pursuing Gordon becomes even more suspect.
With that said, Gordon could be had for fairly cheap (meaning a couple expiring contracts and maybe a draft pick) considering the concerns, and he could be a missing piece to a franchise's current roster.
There's no denying that Gordon is a formidable scoring weapon when he's on his game, and perhaps a suitor will be enticed by his offensive versatility. The fact that he has been healthy during 2013-14 is also a plus.
We'll see if anybody comes knocking, because it likely won't take much to convince the New Orleans Pelicans to ship him elsewhere.
12. Omer Asik, Houston Rockets
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The window to trade Omer Asik may have closed. Ben DuBose of ClutchFans.net recently revealed comments from Daryl Morey, the Houston Rockets' general manager:
"At this point, Omer is very likely going to be here until the end of his contract at the end of next season, not this season. The window to trade him was [in December], and teams weren’t aggressive enough to get him, so we’re excited about him being a part of our future.
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There's clearly a strong likelihood that Asik stays in Houston, but keep in mind that Morey did say "very likely." There are no guarantees here. If a team inquires about Asik and is willing to make a substantial offer, then Asik could easily find himself in a different uniform.
Asik is definitely capable of being a difference-maker, namely because of his top-notch rim-protecting abilities that are hard to find. Remember that he averaged a double-double during 2012-13 and remains just 27 years old. He's also getting healthy after dealing with a right thigh/knee issue.
Asik has been disgruntled since Dwight Howard latched on with the Rockets, but Houston has strangely kept him while seemingly asking for too much in return for his services. Perhaps everything surrounding this will change in the next couple of weeks.
Asik would certainly be happy to don a new uni where his skills are utilized more effectively.
11. Taj Gibson, Chicago Bulls
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Taj Gibson has always been a superb defender with a knack for contesting shots and halting the interior moves of big men.
But he is now much more than that. His offensive repertoire has rounded into form. He has become a guy the Bulls can actually run plays for in the low post.
He's currently averaging a career-high in points per game (12.2) and has flashed the ability to score via the post or by knocking down the mid-range jumper.
Since he's now a force on both ends of the floor, why would the Bulls trade him? This is an especially valid question considering that Chicago will likely use the amnesty clause on Carlos Boozer come the summer. Gibson could then have the opportunity to finally start.
Well, if the Bulls desire to chase a top-notch free agent, like Carmelo Anthony, during the offseason, then they'll need to shed some salary to create cap space. (Listen to the Chicago Sun-Times' Joe Cowley break down this potential scenario.)
If the Bulls make Gibson available, teams will surely be interested. He's a two-way big guy amid his prime, and he also carries a reasonable contract.
There's a good chance he'll remain in the Windy City, but if a suitor is willing to overpay for him, the Bulls will most likely strongly consider it.
10. Spencer Hawes, Philadelphia 76ers
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Spencer Hawes is having a career year, and for him, it's conveniently a contract season.
He currently makes $6.6 million, but that figure should ascend during the offseason. Since the Philadelphia 76ers may not want to risk losing him for nothing, his name is popping up on the trade block.
Hawes' ability to contribute in an array of ways provides him with unique value at the center spot. He's particularly coveted because of his touch from the three-point range, and he has also shown improvement on the boards.
Plus, he's only 25 years old, and a prospective team may hope to net him, show their commitment to him for the remainder of the season and then re-sign him to a long-term deal over the summer.
Or, a playoff team may simply long for an upgrade at center for the upcoming months. In fact, Sam Amico of Fox Sports has even indicated that some Western Conference contenders have interest in the big man. Phoenix is one such option, according to Fansided.
Hawes would be a nice add, and the Sixers are bound to trade him. He's the type of player who could have a significant impact on the playoff race and potentially the title picture, depending on where he lands.
9. Evan Turner, Philadelphia 76ers
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Evan Turner is compiling the best season of his young career, but he'll likely be starting a new chapter in the next couple of weeks.
The Sporting News' Sean Deveney has reported that the Sixers are "eager to net a draft pick for Turner." Eliot Shorr-Parks of NJ.com has indicated that a handful of teams are interested in adding the 25-year-old wing.
It seems that Turner is one of the most likely to get traded included in this slideshow. It appears that dealing Turner will be a step in Philly's ongoing rebuilding process.
Turner is a talented offensive threat who can instigate offense in an array of ways. He attacks the rim and has developed a respectable mid-range game. He has also always been an adept passer.
Turner could certainly provide an upgrade on the perimeter for a handful of ball clubs. One thing is for sure: He's available, and a deal should get done before the deadline buzzer sounds.
8. Jeff Green, Boston Celtics
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Jeff Green is under contract with the Boston Celtics for next season and carries a player option for 2015-16. As the Celtics are in rebuilding mode, it's probable that the veteran Green is not a major part of their future outlook.
Expect the Celtics to be more than willing to trade him in the next couple of weeks, and anticipate there being a handful of teams intrigued at the thought of adding him.
Green is recognized for his versatility. He's a decent offensive player who can make plays at the rim and also splash jumpers from the perimeter. He's also an active defender capable of containing monsters like LeBron James and Kevin Durant.
There aren't many players who can produce across the board like Green, so he should be a hot commodity at the deadline.
Plus, while his contract does run for a few more years, it's less than $10 million for each campaign, which is nothing to complain about when Green contributes in a bevy of manners.
If Green winds up filling a void for a contending team, then his name could be heard a great deal down the stretch and in the playoffs. He's a glue-guy who leaves his imprint on every game.
7. Thaddeus Young, Philadelphia 76ers
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Hawes and Turner may not be the only Philly players relocating in the next couple weeks. Thaddeus Young could also be on his way elsewhere.
Since Young is only 25 years old, the Sixers may choose to retain him, but they may also be content to load up on younger talent and position themselves better for this summer's loaded draft.
Dealing Young would not only net a worthwhile package in return, but it would also make their upcoming months much more bumpy. He's currently averaging 17.4 PPG, 6.3 rebounds per game and a whopping 2.2 steals per outing.
Here's the bottom line: If you remove these figures from Philly's lineup, they're in better "tanking" position.
Young is a quality asset, and he is likely only reaching the front side of his prime. Furthermore, his contract is a bargain, considering he'll make less than $10 million a year through 2015-16.
The likelihood is that the offer for Young will have to be just right for the Sixers to pull the trigger. They simply shouldn't trade him just to trade him, because he's too good and remains youthful. The price will have to be right.
6. Pau Gasol, Los Angeles Lakers
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Pau Gasol is a veteran with championship experience, and he could soon be taking his savvy play to a new city.
In fact, talks between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Phoenix Suns have already occurred, but according to ESPN's Marc Stein, Phoenix is being careful and first wants to see how Gasol recovers from a strained groin.
A deal with the Suns for the aforementioned Emeka Okafor is a realistic possibility for both sides, as Stein outlines:
"One option for the Suns, by virtue of their $5.6 million in available salary-cap space, is swapping the expiring contract of injured big man Emeka Okafor for Gasol, even though Okafor's $14.5 million salary this season falls well shy of Gasol's $19.3 million. A trade for Okafor's expiring deal would save the Lakers $4.8 million, taking them less than $3 million away from the league's luxury-tax threshold, meaning one more smaller deal before the trade deadline could conceivably be enough to take them out of tax territory completely.
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There appears to be much promise surrounding a potential deal between the Lake Show and Suns.
If such a deal doesn't transpire, others squads will likely come knocking, but the challenge will be making the finances work. Since Gasol's 2013-14 contract is close to $20 million, the Lakers will be forced to take back a heavy contract(s), and there aren't many (if any) that work as conveniently as Okafor's.
At any rate, if Gasol soon wears a different uniform, he should instantly enhance his new squad's output in the frontcourt. While he's now 33 years old, his finesse-style is still productive when he's healthy, evidenced by his current marks of 17.0 PPG and 10.2 RPG.
5. Kyle Lowry, Toronto Raptors
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Kyle Lowry's eye-opening play has raised eyebrows across the league. He has far exceeded expectations during 2013-14, enabling the Toronto Raptors to compete effectively in the Eastern Conference.
However, they are now faced with a difficult decision. Lowry's contract expires after the season, and he'll then test the free-agency waters. Therefore, do they keep him since he's playing so well and attempt to win a playoff series? Or, do they ship him to avoid the chance of losing him for nothing come the summer?
According to ESPN New York, here's how the Raptors are viewing this:
"The Raptors reportedly are going to see how things play out over the next two weeks before they decide what to do with Lowry. They’d been asking for a first-round pick earlier in the season, a price the Knicks weren’t willing to meet.
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If Lowry is traded, his new owners will receive a point guard playing at an All-Star level. Lowry is currently averaging 16.6 PPG, 7.5 assists per game and 2.5 three-pointers made per contest, all of which are career-bests.
Lowry is performing so well that he could be worth "renting" for the remaining months. He could provide the extra spark a title-seeker needs to really contend.
4. Arron Afflalo, Orlando Magic
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Arron Afflalo has blossomed as a member of the Orlando Magic, becoming a complete two-guard with an impressive stat line: 19.9 PPG, 3.7 APG, 4.2 APG and a 42.7-percent clip from distance.
What's more, his contract is a bargain, as he makes $7.5 million this year and next, with a player option at the same price for 2015-16.
Because of this, there's a good chance that Orlando hangs on to him, but there are positives to trading him. Obviously, the Magic could acquire something noteworthy in return, but his absence would also open the door for rookie Victor Oladipo to thrive.
Steve Kyler of Basketball Insiders highlights Orlando's presumed status with Afflalo:
"Magic guard Arron Afflalo is the top incoming request; however, it seems unless moving Afflalo yields another lottery pick or a means to thin out the roster, the Magic may pass. Admittedly that was Orlando’s move with Redick, and they ultimately made a trade so don’t count Orlando out. They are just squarely on the fence about making a trade.
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It will be interesting to see how this plays out because Afflalo would be a superb addition to any club. He may lack appeal since he can easily be forgotten about in Orlando, but he's a two-way guard whose offensive game has vastly improved.
3. Greg Monroe, Detroit Pistons
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Greg Monroe has proven his value as an offensive beast, but the Pistons are currently not utilizing him to his strengths.
The addition of Josh Smith has ultimately led to a clogged frontcourt with little chemistry. Monroe's decreased numbers are evidence of this.
The time has come for Monroe to go because the Pistons could net some nice pieces in return, and they could also then slide Smith to the four-spot while keeping Andre Drummond at center. Everything points in the direction of dealing Monroe, who remains just 23 years old.
Monroe does carry some defensive limitations, as he's not much of a rim protector. But his offensive skill set is unquestionable, with the upside of him one day being an All-Star.
A squad seeking a post threat should definitely give Detroit a call, because Monroe could fill a void in a big way.
2. Rajon Rondo, Boston Celtics
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Rajon Rondo did not look like his old self when he first returned from his ACL injury, but he's now rounding into form. His value on the trade market is rising.
We currently have no indication that the Boston Celtics are seeking to trade Rondo, their best player and floor leader.
However, ESPN's Chad Ford (subscription required) has indicated that rival executives think the Celtics will trade Rondo for future assets rather than letting him stay through the rebuilding process.
It's hard to decipher how this will all unfold, but if an enticing offer falls in Boston's hands, don't be surprised if Rondo is soon running point in a new city.
Elite point guards who make everybody better are hard to find, and Rondo is this. Keep an eye on how Boston approaches the deadline, because Rondo could dramatically shake up the playoff outlook if he lands with a contender.
1. Carmelo Anthony, New York Knicks
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At what point do the New York Knicks grasp that Carmelo Anthony's tenure in the Big Apple is not going in a good direction?
ESPN's Stephen A. Smith recently advocated for the Knicks to trade 'Melo because it's becoming more and more apparent that Anthony will likely bolt during the offseason.
Who knows how the Knicks' management is processing all of this, but they have to at least consider the thought of trading their superstar while avoiding losing him for nothing in the summer.
They could potentially inherit a package that garners them numerous future assets, which is something their dysfunctional, veteran-laden roster needs.
A trade involving Anthony would spark buzz across the NBA landscape. If he wound up with a club featuring a handful of proven players who understand their roles, then the sky's the limit for what 'Melo can accomplish.
With New York it's not working because his supporting cast is limited and lacks continuity. But just imagine what 'Melo could do when all the other pieces to the puzzle are in place.
We might get a chance to witness this if Anthony is soon dealt.
Haddon Anderson is an NBA Featured Columnist for Bleacher Report. Follow him on Twitter here.
