NBA Trade Rumors: Rumblings Surrounding Brook Lopez, Miles Plumlee and More
Now that we are officially less than one month away from the NBA trade deadline on Feb. 19, rumors haven't slowed down one iota. A flurry of deals made early in the season have led to optimism for this year's deadline to be one of the best in recent memory.
One of the hottest names on the trade market has been Brook Lopez, whom the Brooklyn Nets are reportedly still shopping. The big man has plenty of value, but his numbers have dipped slightly this season.
Outside of Lopez, several other crucial pieces have been discussed on the rumor mill. With potential playoff teams looking to make a push at the end of the season, the time is now to make huge deals.
Here's a look at the latest crop of rumors from around the league.
Brook Lopez
He may not be the most interesting man in the world, but Lopez certainly is one of the most coveted in the NBA. It seems like nearly every day another potential suitor arises for the imposing center.
Just before the weekend started, Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo Sports shared another team looking to add Lopez:
Of all the teams looking to acquire Lopez, the Houston Rockets might be the most intriguing. With Dwight Howard already in the fold as the starting center, having Lopez as a reserve or playing alongside Howard would make for a dominant frontcourt.
Then again, Wojnarowski would later report a Nets scout told him they are "Standing pat at this time. There was nothing we liked." Just when it seemed to get exciting, the balloon was popped.
If the Rockets can somehow find a way to pull off the trade, they would instantly have two solid centers. Trying to make it through a tough bracket in the Western Conference would be much easier with Lopez and Howard clogging up the middle.
Miles Plumlee
Speaking of centers who fill up the paint, Miles Plumlee is another name that has entered the trade market. With his numbers taking a dramatic drop this season, the Phoenix Suns are reportedly looking to part ways with Plumlee for assets.
Marc Stein of ESPN reported the latest discussions around Plumlee:
Following that tweet, Stein also reported that the Suns are looking to get a future first-round pick for the center. Several teams could use a player like Plumlee coming off the bench, but would they be willing to make a deal for that price?
With his minutes dwindling and Alex Len finally living up to the hype, Plumlee will be an interesting player to watch over the next several weeks. Wherever he lands, he'll bring youth and talent to the bench or starting lineup.
The Boston Celtics recently acquired Tayshaun Prince and might already be looking to move him. Ironically enough, they could be trading partners with the Los Angeles Clippers yet again.
Ken Berger of CBS Sports provides the most recent rumors for Prince:
A veteran small forward, Prince is now in his 13th year in the NBA. While he isn't in his prime anymore, Prince has been a decent contributor for the Memphis Grizzlies over the last three seasons.
Regardless of where he lands, Prince will bring a veteran presence and experience in the playoffs. For a team like the Clippers, having a presence like that can only improve the team late in the season.
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