NBA Trade Rumors and Speculation: An Ideal Target for Every NBA Team

NBA trade rumors and speculation are running rampant despite the league being in a lockout, and it shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon.

Is Dwight Howard going to be dealt by Orlando?

Where is Monta Ellis headed?

Will Andre Iguodala be a 76er when the season starts?

Is Tony Parker actually on the trade block?

The aforementioned players are just some of what has been dominating the trade headlines as of late. It seems that every team has a particular target in mind and is anything but shy about letting the public know it.

With this is in mind, let's take a look at what may not necessarily be a team's primary target, but what target I think each team would ideally like to make a move for.

Atlanta Hawks: Monta Ellis of Golden State Warriors

The Atlanta Hawks have made it clear they are shopping Josh Smith and are unsure about what they will do with unrestricted free agent Jamal Crawford, and given the uncertainty in these two cases, Monta Ellis becomes an ideal trade target for them.

The Golden State Warriors are shopping Ellis and have had discussions with a number of teams, including the Hawks. Josh Smith could be a part of said trade, but Golden State may want more given they would be relinquishing a player who could play both the 1 and 2, for just a forward.

If Atlanta is serious about wanting to move Smith and not wanting to invest big dollars in the aging Crawford, Ellis is a perfect target. He can run the point like Crawford can, and he can score better than both Crawford and Smith.

Ellis averaged 24.1 points, 5.6 assists and 2.1 steals per game last season, and he shot over 36 percent from beyond the arc. He drew criticism for his shot selection, but he did at least improve upon becoming an unselfish player.

Additionally, Ellis gets knocked on for his defense, but his athleticism allows him to be quite capable. He takes a lot of chances going for the steal, but as his 2.1 swipes per game show, he can be quite successful in that department.

With Ellis, the Hawks get younger, more athletic, and add another star to play along side Joe Johnson. Smith and Crawford are both good players, but not on the level Ellis is and where he will be soon.

If the Warriors are willing to deal Ellis to Atlanta for a package they can offer, the Hawks would undoubtedly jump on any proposal.

Boston Celtics: Dwight Howard of the Orlando Magic

Dwight Howard could essentially land on every slide in this here 'show, and he will no doubt be on multiple, but the Boston Celtics would no doubt love to trade for the dominant center anytime they could.

Boston has not been linked to any serious trade rumor. There was the tweet from Chris Mannix of Sports Illustrated back in June that suggest Rajon Rondo would be available for a big offer, but nothing really came of that.

It would be puzzling for the Celtics to trade Rondo because he is their youngest star that gives them hope for the future. Boston is having trouble admitting it may be time to rebuild. Paul Pierce, Ray Allen and Kevin Garnett have all seen the best of their days already, and the end is coming soon.

Howard would be a great addition to pair with Rondo and the rest of the Celtics. His 22.9 points, 14.1 rebounds and 2.4 blocks per game would bring them to a level they have never know before. 

Dealing for Howard is unrealistic for the Celtics right now because Orlando may demand Rondo be a part of the deal, but then again, is Boston willing to part with him? One thing is for certain though is that Howard would cost the Celtics some combination of their "big four" if you will.

That being said, would it be worth it for Boston to give up two member of their "big four" to obtain Howard?

Yes, because regardless of which two are left, the Celtics become instant contenders for at least the next few years with Howard as the pillar of the organization. He keeps the Magic relevant every year without that good of a supporting cast, so think of what he could accomplish with an aging, but albeit capable supporting cast in Boston.

The Celtics would love to find out.

Charlotte Bobcats: Monta Ellis of the Golden State Warriors

Michael Jordan and the Charlotte Bobcats already made a splash in the trade market prior to the NBA lockout, acquiring Corey Maggette from the Milwaukee Bucks and the seventh overall pick in the 2011 draft, which turned into Kemba Walker, from Sacramento Kings.

Walker proved he is an extremely capable guard while at UConn, but he will not be instantly ready to be the star of the team. Additionally, he needs someone capable in the backcourt as versatile as he is to pick up the slack while he is still developing.

Enter Monta Ellis.

Ellis, like Kemba, can play the point guard and shooting guard positions. At 24.1 points and 5.6 assists per game, Ellis is both an electrifying scorer and passer. Charlotte lacks that superstar presence, and I think Ellis would fill that void.

Furthermore, Ellis, could serve as a model for what Walker can become. The Warriors do not seem to keen on having two Ellis types on the team, one being Ellis the other Stephen Curry, but the Bobcats would welcome such a reality.

With Ellis and Kemba, Charlotte would have their backcourt set for the foreseeable future and could begin to focus on putting together a more dominant frontcourt. Do not underestimate Ellis' value to teams; his ability to run the point as well as assume the shooting guard roles is a hot commodity.

And the Bobcats would no doubt welcome his addition to their rotation.

Chicago Bulls: O.J. Mayo of the Memphis Grizzlies

The Chicago Bulls are in desperate need of an answer at the shooting guard position. Keith Bogans is just not cutting it.

Monta Ellis is probably on the Bulls' radar, and although I'm usually an advocate for a strong backcourt, Derrick Rose and Ellis would just not gel together. Both would require too many touches. 

O.J. Mayo, on the other hand, would be the perfect fit. He is a solid role player, and does not require nearly as many touches as Ellis would, thus complementing the reining MVP Rose perfectly.

Last season Mayo averaged 11.3 points and one steal in 26 minutes of action per game. He is a solid defender and makes smart decisions on the court. And 11.3 points per game is a solid number, but he is capable of more production than that, it's just in Memphis, the ball went through Zach Randolph and Marc Gasol before him.

Additionally, he is only 24 years old and still improving. He has a great attitude, which has been ruffled by being on the trade block for the past year, but is still salvageable. He is a solid three point shooter at nearly 38 percent for his career.

As previously stated, Mayo is certainly available, but the bad news for the Bulls is that they would likely want to get rid of Carlos Boozer in said deal, or move him before making such a deal, and Memphis certainly has no need for Boozer.

As Chicago continues to shop Boozer they should look for a taker who can give them something in return that may interest the Grizzlies, because with Mayo, the Bulls get an upgrade at the shooting guard position and form one of the better backcourt tandems in the league.

And they also set themselves up to once again be among the league's best.

Cleveland Cavaliers: Josh Smith of the Atlanta Hawks

The Cleveland Cavaliers are among the teams in the league that have the capacity to be quite a pleasant surprise next season.

With Omri Casspi, Daniel Gibson, Ramon Sessions and Kyrie Irving on the roster, they have a strong young core in place. Veterans Antawn Jamison and Baron Davis are also solid mentors for the Cavs' young guns.

However, the Cavs could use an upgrade in the frontcourt, and Josh Smith would be the perfect acquisition for him. Jamison is a solid player, but he is 35 and declining fast. He would be better served as a role player, despite making nearly $16 million next season.

Last season, Smith averaged averaged 16.5 points, 8.5 rebounds and 1.6 blocks per game for the Atlanta Hawks. He is a versatile power forward who has deep enough range to play the small forward position, but aggressive and strong enough to play some emergency minutes as a center.

It is widely know that the Hawks are interested in moving Smith, and while the favorites seem to be the Orlando Magic at this point, if Cleveland is willing to part with Sessions or Gibson they should be able to strike a deal. Sessions has been the subject of trade talk for quite some time and with the abundance of point guards Cleveland has, he is expendable.

Smith is known to have a huge ego that effects his relationships with teammates, but he is a capable player who may be served better playing for an even smaller market team in the Cavs.

Additionally, after putting up with LeBron James for the better part of a decade, Smith may seem like a piece of cake to handle for Cleveland.

Dallas Mavericks: Ramon Sessions of the Cleveland Cavaliers

J.J. Barea proved to be more than a capable backup point guard for the Dallas Mavericks last season, but with the potential for him to bolt for a different team and a starting position, the 2011 NBA champs should shift their focus to Ramon Sessions of the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Sessions averaged 13.3 points and 5.2 assists in 26.3 minutes of action per game last season. He is an above-average defender and can drive the lane as good as anyone. His ball handling is also a major asset to any team he plays for.

Cleveland, as noted on the last slide has room to move Sessions, with Daniel Gibson, Kyrie Irving and Baron Davis on the roster, and it has also been reported that the Cavs have considered doing just that.

Sessions would be the perfect backup to Jason Terry and Jason Kidd, and also gives the Mavs someone in place for the future to take over when either one leaves/retires. It is unclear what it would take to obtain him from the Cavs though. No one really know how valuable Cleveland considers him.

However, Dallas should at least make an inquiry on his behalf so that they do not get burned in the Barea negotiations. 

Denver Nuggets: Monta Ellis of the Golden State Warriors

The Denver Nuggets are one of the most complicated teams in the league, where everyone on their team is expendable yet invaluable.

After the Carmelo Anthony trade, the team made up of role players made quite a run and turned a lot of heads. However, Raymond Felton is already gone, and J.R. Smith, Kenyon Martin, Arron Afflalo and Chandler Wilson may follow, which puts the Nuggets in a very delicate situation.

Right before the Felton trade, the Nuggets said that they will explore all the avenues open to them, and the aforementioned trade proved that they weren't kidding. And this is why the Nuggets should and would be open to a trade for Monta Ellis.

Denver has the potential to lose two shooting guards in Afflalo and Smith, as well as a forward who can also play the shooting guard position in Chandler. It is likely that the Nuggets will make a play to keep Nene, and with Kenneth Faried, Chris Anderson, Al Harrington and Danilo Gallinari, their front court is set.

The Nuggets are even in good shape with Ty Lawson and Andre Miller splitting time at the point guard positions, but when it comes to the shooting guard position there is potential to be a gaping hole.

And what better way to fill that gaping hole with one of the best scorers in the game who averaged 24.1 points and 5.6 assists last season. Golden State, though stating they were pushing back on Ellis trade talks, is known to be shopping the shooting guard, and a sign and trade deal involving Chandler and/or Afflalo would not be out of the question for the Warriors to accept.

If Denver is truly serious about exploring all avenues, this will be one they will explore. 

Ellis gives them the star caliber player they do not currently have, and he and Danilo Gallinari, who is on the verge of stardom, would form quite a tandem, capable of producing for years to come.

Not to mention it may help further heal the wounds left from the Anthony trade.

Detroit Pistons: Rudy Gay of the Memphis Grizzlies

Newly hired head coach Lawrence Frank has his work cut out for him in Detroit, and a trade for Memphis Grizzlies forward Rudy Gay would be a great addition for a team currently searching for a direction.

Gay became quite expendable for Memphis after they made their impressive run with their star forward on the bench. Memphis Grizzlies' owner Michael Heisley attempted to quiet such rumors back in May, but not really to any effect.

In limited action last season, Gay averaged 19.8 points and 5.6 rebounds per game. He is only 24 and gives the Pistons a small forward for the foreseeable future as Tayshaun Prince continues to age. Gay also fits the Pistons quiet, but deadly profile, this referring to the likes of the title teams that had players like Chauncey Billups on them.

Detroit is looking to move Richard Hamilton and/or Tayshaun Prince, and should they succeed in doing so, Gay will be hot on their radar. It may take an arm and a leg to pry him away from Memphis, a team has maintained they think they would have done better with Gay on the court, but it could prove to be worth it.

Gay could be a cornerstone for Detroit to build upon. They have multiple solid players in Ben Gordon and Rodney Stuckey, should he return, but they lack that star power. Gay brings that.

And he also brings hope for the future.

Golden State Warriors: Eric Gordon of the Los Angeles Clippers

The Golden State Warriors pushed back their shopping of shooting guard Monta Ellis, but are still in the market for a better fit for their team.

Eric Gordon serves as a great replacement for Ellis to pair along side with Stephen Curry. Last season, he averaged 22.3 points, 4.4 assists and 1.3 steals per game. His stats are similar but slightly less productive than Ellis' yet he serves the purpose for the Warriors.

With Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson and David Lee on the roster, their offensive purposes are almost served, they just need that unselfish scorer to add to that arsenal. While Ellis became more unselfish than people give him credit for, he requires too many touches. Gordon would spread the floor and balance the offense better.

Additionally, while Ellis average 1.1 steals more per game, Gordon is the better overall defender, which is bound to catch new head coach Mark Jackson's attention. He is also only 22 and allows the Warriors to avoid sacrificing any of their present or future plans.

Gordon was an integral part of the Los Angeles Clippers offense last season, but he may become available if Ellis is offered up.

Gordon and Ellis are very similar on paper, but Gordon fits what the Warriors need much better. And even though Golden State was in discussions with the Philadelphia 76ers for a potential Ellis and Andre Iguodala swap, indications are that when they backed away from all Ellis negotiations, they were hesitant on Iguodala.

And who could blame them. Iguodala is a risk, whereas Gordon is surefire production.

Houston Rockets: Rudy Gay of Memphis Grizzlies

Surprisingly, even after Yao Ming retiring, the largest hole to fill on the Houston Rockets roster is not the center position, rather the small forward position.

Rudy Gay fits the bill perfectly for the Rockets who are not high on guys with large egos (see Tracy McGrady). As previously mentioned, Gay was productive in limited action for the Memphis Grizzlies last season averaging 19.8 points and 5.6 rebounds per game.

Gay is only 24, with plenty of solid seasons left in him, and would compliment Luis Scola and Kevin Martin quite nicely. Gay is extremely versatile and has great ball handling skills, even for a small forward.

At the risk of becoming repetitive, the Grizzlies have tried to publicly squash Gay rumors, but with the season basically had without him, he could be had for the right number of draft picks/salary cap relief.

Houston would almost certainly be willing to absorb the rest of Gay's contract because with him they become a playoff caliber team. Martin and Scuola are very good players, and Chuck Hayes is no joke either, but the Rockets are missing a few pieces.

While Gay does not necessarily make Houston title contenders, he does give them playoff hopes as well as a promising future. 

And the Rockets will not have any problem with that.

Indiana Pacers: David West of the New Orleans Hornets

The Indiana Pacers are in need of an upgrade at the power forward position because Tyler Hansborough may be better served coming off the bench.

David West would be a great place to start. The New Orleans Hornets power forward averaged 18.9 points and 7.6 rebounds last season. New Orleans denied shopping him back in February, but he could become "actually" available if the Hornets decide to clean shop or rather should Chris Paul indicate he is not returning.

West will be 31 when the season is slated to start, so he still has a few solid years left in him. He is an upgrade over Hansborough, who while is solid, still has some developing to do. West would serve as the perfect mentor and add some scoring power to the Pacers rotation.

Additionally, should West become readily available, the Hornets would most likely be willing to part with him for draft picks/salary cap relief, entering complete rebuilding mode. 

West would compliment Danny Granger quite nicely and give the ever improving Darren Collison one more person to pass to who can finish consistently. Indiana barely made the playoffs this past season and would like to make some serious noise next season.

West gives them the opportunity to do so and allows the Pacers to avoid taking on an ego centered player, such as Josh Smith.

Los Angeles Clippers: Monta Ellis of the Golden State Warriors

Monta Ellis has frequented this list quiet a bit thus far and here he is again as the ideal target for the Los Angeles Clippers.

Most can understand the slide that states Eric Gordon is a better fit for the Warriors than Ellis, but is Ellis a better fit for the Clippers than Gordon?

Yes, because he is a more prolific player. At 24.1 points, 5.6 points and 2.4 steals per game, Ellis is the star power that the Clippers desire to pair along with Blake Griffin. Gordon is a fantastic player, but Ellis is simply more dominant, and a better passer to boot.

With a duo of Ellis and Griffin, the Clippers become more intimidating and serious playoff candidates. Add Chris Kaman, should they hold on to him, and Randy Foye to the mix, the Clippers are a serious threat.

Targeting Ellis is purely star motivated and is nothing against Gordon's game. It is just that Ellis commands more attention and opens up the floor better for what the Clippers need to do. 

However, there is another possibility here. The Clippers and 76ers were discussing a potential Andre Iguodala for Chris Kaman trade, and the Warriors may oblige to an Ellis for Kaman trade. This allows the Clippers to hold on to Gordon while adding Ellis.

It gives them a plethora of talented guards, but Ellis and Gordon could form quite a tandem if Ellis runs the point.

And that is an enticing possibility for the Clippers.

Los Angeles Lakers: Dwight Howard of the Orlando Magic

Dwight Howard should come as no surprise as the most coveted target to the Los Angels Lakers, though some at this point may have expected me to throw Monta Ellis on the headline once again.

Bill Plaschke was one of the first to fuel the Howard to Lakers fire, writing that Los Angeles should trade Andrew Bynum and Lamar Odom for the star center.

The Lakers are in disarray, for lack of a better word. This is the same team who won a championship a little over a year ago, yet they seem so much older now. Kobe Bryant has rendered himself human and susceptible to the fragility of age, Odom has hit an awkward age leaving the Lakers confused about whether or not to move him, and Andrew Bynum is coming along slower than anticipated.

Many view Howard to Los Angeles as a very real possibility and it is hard to believe the Lakers would pass on obtaining the guy who has carried the Magic for the better part of this decade. Howard's 22.9 points, 14.1 rebounds and 2.4 blocks per game would be a major upgrade over Bynum.

Additionally, Howard brings further clout to Los Angeles, allowing the team to contend for the rest of Kobe's career and beyond.

It is unclear whether the Magic will trade Howard or not, but if they decide to take such action, the Lakers are one of Howard's preferred destinations, as well as one of the few teams who can offer a capable big man with a lot of potential in return.

Relinquishing will be a tough sell to the Lakers fan base. He is a fan favorite and reining sixth man of the year, and his consistency has proved extremely valuable to this Lakers team. However, he may be necessary collateral damage to obtain Howard.

Howard is the type of guy who can literally carry a team on his back, and is just the star power the Lakers crave to pair alongside Kobe. Whether him and Kobe can coexist remains to be fully seen. We have not forgotten the Shaquille O'Neal debacle.

But Howard is not O'Neal. He is just as dominant, but where Shaq had an ego, Howard has a six pack.

And that may be something Kobe can get on board with.

Memphis Grizzlies: Carlos Boozer of the Chicago Bulls

The Memphis Grizzlies' main focus this offseason will be ensuring that they keep restricted free agent Marc Gasol on the roster, but exploring a trade for Carlos Boozer is also in their best interests.

Boozer averaged 17.5 points and 9.6 rebounds per game for the Chicago Bulls last season. He is a great low post player and can also hit the mid-range jumper. His rebounding is also more than stellar.

Boozer had a weak display in the postseason for Chicago, and as a result it seems that they are open to moving the veteran power forward, and the Grizzlies would definitely be interested. Chicago may have some interest in O.J. Mayo whom Memphis is open to dealing, but it remains to be seen whether or not the Grizzlies would be open to paying Gasol, Rudy Gay and Carlos Boozer at the same time.

Memphis could insist on Chicago taking on Gay as well, which they would certainly do, or they could easily find another taker for him. Additionally, Boozer becomes a great option if Gasol walks.

One thing is for sure though, if the Grizzlies are willing to take on his contract, Boozer would add depth, scoring and rebounding to Memphis' roster, especially if Gasol gets incredibly overpaid from another center starved team. 

Boozer may have fallen out of favor in Chicago, but he could be just what the Grizzlies need to get to the next level. 

Miami Heat: Dwight Howard of the Orlando Magic

LeBron James and company made it to the NBA Finals in only their first year together, but the Mavericks defeat of the "big three" revealed that the Miami Heat had some gaping holes, specifically down low, and Howard could obviously resolve any such issue.

The LeBron for Howard rumors, while not ill advised, are just not going to come to fruition. Many could deem such a trade crazy, but do we not remember the success that David Robinson and Tim Duncan had down low together? Howard and Chris Bosh could do even more damage.

But that is whimsical thinking. The Heat are not going to break up LeBron and Dwyane Wade. However, should they be able to put together a proposal with Bosh as the centerpiece, than talks could get serious.

Bosh proved he was valuable to the Heat in the postseason, more so than James did anyway, but when it comes to Howard, Bosh is expendable. While Bosh, Howard and Wade may be a more effective "big three," LeBron, Howard and Wade would still be enough to propel Miami to a championship.

So don't expect a LeBron for Howard deal to go down. But if the Heat are willing to part with Bosh, the Magic may be apt to negotiating.

Milwaukee Bucks: Tony Parker of the San Antonio Spurs

The Milwaukee Bucks are in need of a star to pair with center Andrew Bogut, and while Stephen Jackson is a solid player, Tony Parker fits the bill much better.

Last season with the San Antonio Spurs, Parker averaged 17.5 points, 6.6 assist and 1.2 steals per game. His defense is a hot commodity, and he is a more than capable point guard who can pass and shoot.

Before the NBA draft, the Spurs indicated that they would be open to moving Parker, especially after he made some not-so-flattering comments in regards to the team competing for a championship. With the lockout, talks have obviously been put on the back burner, but could heat up again once it is over.

San Antonio is in desperate need of getting younger. At 29, Parker is not the oldest on the team, but his contract is a setback for the Spurs, who need to go after some younger guns. However, Parker's contract is not so much of a setback that he will be impossible to move.

Parker will be 32 by the time his contract concludes, and will probably continue to play at his level of play through its duration. The Bucks would welcome his leadership and Bogut would be undoubtedly ecstatic at having someone to relieve the scoring burden a bit more.

Draft picks, fillers and salary cap relief may be enough to get the deal done. The Spurs would value draft picks that they could use to acquire a better fit for their team.

Parker's comments may lead to him being exiled from San Antonio, but Milwaukee would welcome him with open arms. 

Minnesota Timberwolves: Andre Iguodala of the Philadelphia 76ers

Kevin Love and the Minnesota Timberwolves are off to an impression offseason, selecting Derrick Williams in the 2011 NBA draft and finally get Ricky Rubio to literally play ball, but they lack a proven player who can help push them toward the playoffs.

Andre Iguodala could prove to be the missing piece to this Minnesota jigsaw puzzle. He averaged 14.1 points, 6,3 assists, 5,8 rebounds and 1.2 steals per game. Iguodala can both score and defender extraordinarily well, and he is on the trade block.

Iguodala has been linked to trade talks involving a swap with the Golden State Warriors for Monta Ellis, but those talks have cooled down, leaving room for the Timberwolves to get involved. 

It is unclear what Philadelphia would want in return. The 76ers may want substantial value in return, or could decide to enter rebuilding mode and covet draft picks as well as cap relief. 

Luckily for the Timberwolves, they can offer both. They are considering a trade for the offensive heavy Michael Beasley, who became expendable after drafting Williams, but could also offer draft picks and willingness to take on Iguodala's contract, in return.

Iguodala could prove to be the missing link for these Timberwolves. He relieves both the defensive and offensive burdens off Love's shoulders. He also is one of the best rebounding guards in the league, and versatile enough to play the small forward position when needed.

Additionally, if they are able to keep Beasley in any deal, Minnesota could then keep him or move him for another valuable piece.

Minnesota needs to show love they are ready to compete if they do not want him to walk via free agency next year, and Iguodala would be a giant step in that direction.

New Jersey Nets: Dwight Howard of the Orlando Magic

The New Jersey Nets took a big, but necessary risk, when trading for Deron Williams without him guaranteeing he would sign an extension with the team. As a result, it is now New Jersey's job to give Williams a reason to stay, and Dwight Howard gives him more than just one.

Howard and his 22.9 points, 14.1 rebounds and 2.4 blocks per game would be a perfect fit along side Williams. Howard is the most dominant center in the game and would almost certainly agree to sign with the Nets should Williams do the same.

New Jersey is reportedly going to make a heavy push for Howard, and they have the basis for an impressive package, with the ability to offer Brook Lopez in any deal. The Orlando Magic are going to do whatever possible to try and entice Howard to stay, but if he does not indicate he is going to re-sign, than the organization cannot risk becoming a victim to the "LeBron James Rule."

Lopez is a great center, but he is no Howard. Howard would convince any player to remain with their respective team if he arrived. His sheer likable personality, coupled with his dominant play style means that no team could go wrong by acquiring.

The Nets want to be in place to make a huge splash when they move to Brooklyn and a true New York market. The New York Knicks are New York's basketball team, but a pairing of Howard and Williams would certainly result in the Nets staying relevant in the conversation.

Howard guarantees marketability and success for when New Jersey moves to Brooklyn, something the Nets and owner Mikihail Prokhorov are very much aware of.

And this certainly makes Howard the ideal trade target for the Nets.

New Orleans Hornets: Monta Ellis of the Golden State Warriors

Monta Ellis reportedly requested to be traded away from the Golden State Warriors, and although he has been mostly linked to the Lakers, the 76ers and even the Magic, the New Orleans Hornets could become major players should Chris Paul not show an inclination to sign an extension.

Ellis' 24.1 points and 5.6 assists per game would be a welcoming consolation prize for them losing Paul. Ellis can run the point and is a very good passer. He has a bad wrap in terms of shot selection, but he is still young and has not fully developed his game yet.

Ellis gives the Hornets someone to build upon for the future, and if they decide to hold on to David West, Ellis would be a great running mate. No one can replace Paul, but Ellis is as close as they come. And luckily for the Hornets, Ellis is being shopped.

So while having to trade Paul is not an ideal situation for the Hornets, Ellis is an ideal target in exchange.

If Paul decides he would rather take his talents outside of New Orleans, expect discussions with these parameters to take place. 

New York Knicks: Chris Paul of the New Orleans Hornets

Ever since Chris Paul made that infamous toast at Carmelo Anthony's wedding last summer, the rumor mill has been running rampant about him joining the New York Knicks.

After pulling the trigger on the lopsided Anthony deal, the Knicks proved they are committed to assembling a "big three" in the Big Apple. One of the issues that exists though is the Knicks have little assets that could be of value to the New Orleans Hornets.

The Knicks do have Chauncey Billups' expiring deal, the promising Iman Shumpert and fan favorite Landry Fields to dangle, but it may not be enough. New York gave up highly coveted prospects in Wilson Chandler and Danilo Gallinari,so they do not have much else to offer.

Losing Fields would be somewhat of a hit for New York, but Paul would prove to be worth it. He averaged 15.8 points, 9.8 assists and 2.4 steals per game last season, and he is the perfect candidate to run an offense with Anthony and Amar'e Stoudemire in it.

Prying Paul away from the Hornets will prove to be difficult, but you better believe the Knicks and their star-craved owner James Dolan are going to do all they can. 

Oklahoma City Thunder: Dwight Howard of the Orlando Magic

The Oklahoma City Thunder turned a lot of heads this past season, making it to the Western Conference Finals, and Dwight Howard could be just the push they need to make it to the finals and bring home a championship.

Oklahoma City can actually put together quite an enticing package for Howard if they are willing to part with Russell Westbrook. He and Kevin Durant proved to have some cohesiveness to still develop in this year's postseason. Rumors even started circulating that the Thunder were exploring a trade for Westbrook in a deal that would bring them Chris Paul, but they were shot down.

The Thunder can maintain that they are not interested in dealing Westbrook, but they would certainly consider just that if it meant obtaining Howard and his 22.9 points, 14.1 rebounds and 2.4 blocks per game. 

Additionally, Durant and Howard would form quite a tandem, one that would rival and possibly exceed that of Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O'Neal, minus the egos. Westbrook is a phenomenal young player, but he and Durant have already exhibited they can fall apart together, regardless of how well they have coexisted in the past.

Howard and Durant would quite possibly compliment each other better, and would give the Thunder the most dominant center in the game, thus making them serious contenders for years to come. 

Orlando Magic: Deron Williams of the New Jersey Nets

Preventing Dwight Howard from joining another team is the Orlando Magic's top priority, and to attain such a goal, the team needs to put another star along side their star center that will allow them to become a contender.

The Magic have been linked negotiations involving the Hawks' forward Josh Smith, who is a buddy of Howard's, but his addition may not be enough. Smith is a very efficient player, but he is not the bona fide star Orlando needs to keep Howard.

Deron Williams on the other hand is just that. It is fitting that the Nets could use Howard to make Williams say, and now vice versa. Williams' 20.1 points and 10.3 assists per game would be welcomed by both the Magic franchise and Howard himself.

Orlando would prefer Williams over Chris Paul because of his cleaner health bill. They do not want to take an unnecessary risks when it comes to Howard. Should Paul suffer a major injury while with the team, Howard may bolt. Additionally, Paul himself is a flight risk, having been known to prefer the Knicks.

Williams and Howard would contend for championships immediately and for the foreseeable future if they teamed up in Orlando. And it is this very notion that would catch appeal to Howard, and keep him with the Magic.

Philadelphia 76ers: Monta Ellis of the Golden State Warriors

Monta Ellis has been a frequent visitor to this list, and while his name may beginning to bore you, the fact is many teams would love to enlist his services, including the Philadelphia 76ers, a team that has already undergone negotiations with the Warriors.

Philadelphia is looking to move Andre Iguodala and the two parties have discussed a straight up swap for the two shooting guards. Ellis' 24.1 points and 5.6 assists per game would more than cover the offensive hole left by Iguodala.

As for defense, Iguodala is clearly the better player, but Ellis is not as terrible as everyone bellieves him to be in that department. He does take a lot of chances, but he averaged 2.4 steals per game last year.

Ellis provides the 76ers not only with a more than adequate replacement for Iguodala, but also gives them a foundation to build upon for the future. Not to mention that a straight up trade more than allows the 76ers to contend for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.

With Ellis, the 76ers do not becoming championship contenders, but it is a step in the right direction. Iguodala and Philadelphia have accomplished all they can together, and it is time for a change.

And Ellis would be a refreshing change of scenery for the 76ers fan base.

Phoenix Suns: Chris Paul of the New Orleans Hornets

Chris Paul being the ideal trade target for the Phoenix Suns will come as a bit of a surprise to many, but for a team that is entering a rebuilding stage, a top-tier point guard is exactly the type of cornerstone they need to build upon. 

Steve Nash is a great point guard, one of the best to ever play the game, but he is on his way out. He is 37 years old, and while he continues to produce, he is not the point guard of Phoenix's future. And despite what the Suns may say, they will definitely consider trading the point guard in an attempt to move on to someone younger.

Teams like the Knicks and Timberwolves have already inquired about Nash's availability, and talks will heat up once the lockout concludes. And should the Suns decide to move the veteran point guard, they will be in need of a replacement.

Phoenix would welcome Iman Shumpert of the Knicks because he was one of their higher rated prospects heading into the draft, but they would prefer someone more proven, like Paul. New Orleans will certainly consider trading Paul should it seem as if he will walk, and the Suns will certainly make a phone call if this becomes the case.

Paul averaged 15.8 points, 9.8 assists and 2.4 steals per game last season. His court vision, while not at the level Nash's, is one of the best in the league. He is also a better scorer and defender.

Additionally, Paul is still young, but possesses the experience needed to lead Phoenix to the greener pastures that they believe are within in reach.

A trade for Paul is a deal that the Suns would not be able to pass up. 

Portland Trail Blazers: Marc Gasol of the Memphis Grizzlies

The Memphis Grizzlies will do all they can to keep Marc Gasol, but should he indicate a desire to play elsewhere, the team will certainly consider completing a sign and trade deal, and the Portland Trail Blazers are a team that would extremely interested.

Memphis already extended Gasol a qualifying offer, but that shouldn't stop Portland from attempting to woo the 7-1 center. If the Trail Blazers put together a package consisting of Brandon Roy, draft picks and fillers, and are willing to take Shane Battier or O.J. Mayo off of Memphis' hands, than such a deal becomes a real possibility.

Gasol averaged 15 points and 11.2 rebounds last season for the Grizzlies, and was a key part of their impressive playoff run. He is a solid defender and has good range for a seven footer. 

The Trail Blazers made a great acquisition in Raymond Felton, and Gasol would prove to be another giant step in the right direction. Felton, Gasol and Lamarcus Aldridge would be a trio that is capable of leaving some major marks in the Western Conference.

Oft-injured Greg Oden is not going to cut it any longer. The Blazers need consistency and stability.

And Gasol provides just that.

San Antonio Spurs: Rudy Gay of Memphis Grizzlies

The San Antonio Spurs are an aging team in desperate need of a few young and capable players to keep them relevant for the remainder of Tim Duncan's career and beyond, and Rudy Gay of the Grizzlies fits that bill.

San Antonio is looking to unload Richard Jefferson's contract, and if they find a taker, they will be in the market for a solid small forward to take his spot. Gay's contract will not come cheap, but he can produce. In his limited action last season, he averaged 19.8 points and 6.2 rebounds per game.

Gay is an abover average defender and a very good three-point shooter. He can drive the lane with ease and would compliment Tim Duncan and Manu Ginobli perfectly. If the Spurs hold on to Tony Parker in such a trade, or just in general, they would become a serious championship contender again.

Additionally, Gay will only be 25 when the season begins, giving the Spurs a player in place for the future to build around.

Jefferson will prove hard to move, but if the Spurs find away, they will know that Memphis is only a phone call away.

Sacramento Kings: Tyson Chandler of the Dallas Mavericks

Tyson Chandler has a great season for the Dallas Mavericks, averaging 10.1 points, 9.4 rebounds and 1.1 blocks per game, helping Dirk Nowitzki and the Mavs to an NBA title.

Chandler is a restricted free agent this summer, and while the Mavs would love to hold on to him, he is aware that the team is coming to a cross-roads. Jason Kidd, Jason Terry and Shawn Marion are all aging,and Nowitzki cannot always do it on his own.

Additionally, Chandler is in line for a huge pay day, and while owner Mark Cuban will spend whatever it takes, he will not over invest in the center.

As a result, Chandler may consider joining a team with some up and coming players, who will be able to make some noise in the near future. The Sacramento Kings provide such an opportunity with Demarcus Cousins and Tyreke Evans on the roster, and they are in need of a center.

Samuel Dalembert is a free agent this summer, and because the NBA is a center starved lead, his price will be driven up and he is not worth major dollars. The mediocre stats he put up for the Kings are nothing to get excited about, so Sacramento is liable to let him walk.

If Dallas realizes that Chandler is no longer interested in staying, the Kings will certainly make a call. Chandler still has at least three to four more productive seasons left in him, and would give Sacramento the extra offensive and defensive push they need to become relevant again.

Evans are Cousins are a great foundation, but there is still a need at center that the Kings have been unable to fill.

And Chandler is more than capable of doing so.

Toronto Raptors: Al Jefferson of the Utah Jazz

Al Jefferson as the ideal trade target for the Toronto Raptors may come as a bit surprising, especially since the team has already been in talks prior to the draft with the Spurs in regards to point guard Tony Parker.

That being said, once again we revisit a David Robinson and Tim Duncan type setup, this time with Andrew Bargnani and Jefferson. Bargnani is an offensive weapon, but is no help on the defensive end. Jefferson and his 18.6 points, 9.7 rebounds and 1.9 blocks per game proves he is a threat on both ends of the floor.

Additionally, he would help fill the void left by Chris Bosh. Parker would be a good fit, but Jefferson would be a better one. He would give the Raptors a fighting chance at making the playoffs, as well as represent a step in the right direction for the franchise that is currently at a cross roads.

Jefferson is only 26, giving the Raptors immediate production, as well as a promising outlook on the future. The Utah Jazz are about to enter serious rebuilding mode, apparent by the organization dumping Deron Williams right before last season's trade deadline, and may be open to moving Jefferson now more than ever.

If this turns out to be the case, expect the Raptors to become major players in the Jefferson sweepstakes. A terrific duo in the low post worked for the Spurs before, and it could work just as well now for Toronto. 

Utah Jazz: Wilson Chandler of the Denver Nuggets

Wilson Chandler is just the athletic wingman that the Utah Jazz need to remain competitive in the tough Western Conference.

The Jazz are clearly entering rebuilding mode since they dumped Deron Williams just before last season's trade deadline. As a result, they are not looking for a high priced to star to pair along with Al Jefferson, whom they may opt to trade anyway.  Utah is instead in the market for a young player with enormous potential.

Chandler fits the above criteria perfectly. Last season, in stints with the Knicks and Denver Nuggets, Chandler averaged 13.9 points and 5.2 rebounds per game, stats that would have been much higher should trade rumors involving him ever ceased.

Chandler is as versatile as they come. He is strong enough to play the power forward position, yet possesses enough finesse to play the 2 and 3. Additionally, he is a great defender and rebounder, and one of the best low post wings in the league. He has also developed an outside game over the past year.

The Knicks have been linked to having been interested in bringing back Chandler, but while the Nuggets are not about to get in a bidding war for the forward, the organization is not likely allow him to walk for nothing. More likely than not they will execute a sign and trade to receive some value in return for Chandler, in which case the Knicks have little to offer.

Utah needs a player to replace the gaping offensive hole left by Williams. No, Chandler is not capable of running the point, but he is an offensive weapon the Jazz would love to have in their arsenal. And at only 24, he is a player that can be there for the long haul.

And the Jazz cannot really ask for any more than that.

Washington Wizards: Robin Lopez of the Phoenix Suns

The Washington Wizards are in need of a young, athletic center and while Brook Lopez would seem the obvious choice, the Nets are completely focused on getting Dwight Howard, and would not trade him for anyone else.

So Lopez's twin brother, Robin Lopez is the next best thing for them. The seven foot center had less than an eye catching season, averaging 6.4 points and 3.2 rebounds per game, but he is only 23 and still developing.

Lopez's rebounding definitely needs some work, and he needs to become more of a low post scorer, but his athleticism is more than evident, make it obvious he has enormous potential. The Wizards have a solid young core in place with John Wall, Andray Blatche and Nick young, and Lopez would only add to that.

The Wizards are bound to experience some growing pains next year, but adding Lopez would help the team endure such struggles. Strong centers are hard to come by in this league, and while Lopez is not there yet, there is a strong belief he will get there.

Is he a risk for Washington?

Sure, but the potential dividends his acquisition would pay far outweigh any risk involved. No one expects the Wizards to be title contenders next season anyway, so making an inquiry to Phoenix about Lopez's availability doesn't hurt.

Simply put, a Lopez inquiry is one the Wizards need to, and would be most certainly interested in making.