NBA Trade Speculation: 6 Aging Veterans That Should Be Dealt to Contenders

The NBA lockout has put a damper on the off-season, so we're forced to resort to speculating about potential trades.

Most, if not all, players play the game of basketball in pursuit of an NBA Championship. Some experience this joy early in their careers, but not everyone is so lucky. 

Take Steve Nash for example.

Nash is one of the top players in the game, but has no ring. Playing with a Phoenix Suns team that failed to make the playoffs last year, the chances for the 37-year-old to win a title don't look too good. 

Unless, however, he is traded. Nash is far from alone in this respect. There are a ton of players in the same boat. 

Here are six NBA veterans that should be dealt to a contender. 

Richard Hamilton—Detroit Pistons

The Detroit Pistons and Richard Hamilton have had a great run together, one that includes an NBA Championship. However, a breakup appears imminent after all that has transpired between Hamilton and the organization.

Even the firing of John Kuester won't save the relationship. 

Despite his age (33), Hamilton is still one of the best offensive shooting guards in the league. The Chicago Bulls almost landed Hamilton at the trading deadline last season and will surely try again once the NBA lockout is over.

Hamilton would step right in and solidify the Bulls' greatest hole. Chicago desperately needs another scorer for when Derrick Rose isn't on top of his game and Hamilton is perfect for that role. 

Grant Hill—Phoenix Suns

Grant Hill finds himself in a similar situation to teammate Steve Nash. He is actually older than Nash (he turns 39 in October) and has also never won an NBA Championship.

Despite his age, Hill is still producing. The past three years with the Phoenix Suns, Hill has averaged double digits in points, nearly 5 rebounds, and about 2.5. assists per game.

Not too bad for a player who was thought to be done years ago. 

Even more impressive is the fact Hill has only missed three games over the past three seasons combined. Once though to be an injury waiting to happen, Hill has become one of the most durable players in the NBA. 

While Hill won't lead the team in scoring, he would be a great rotation player coming off the bench for any contender. 

Baron Davis-Cleveland Cavaliers

Baron Davis has been called a lot of things over the years, but lazy is probably the word that best describes him. Since bolting for the Los Angeles Clippers five years ago, his play has severely dropped off.

With Blake Griffin leading the Clippers' resurgence last season, Davis showed he still had something left in the tank. He was rejuvenated, if only for a short period.

Unfortunately, he's now stuck with the Cleveland Cavaliers. A move to a contender could motivate him and revitalize his once promising career. 

Marcus Camby-Portland Trail Blazers

Marcus Camby has played in the NBA for 16 years for five different teams, but has yet to win an NBA Championship.

Playing for the Portland Trail Blazers won't help that. 

Camby is known for one thing—his defense. And while at age 37 his offensive skills are diminished, he is still considered one of the better interior defenders in the league. 

Despite playing only 26 minutes per game last season, he was still able to average over 10 rebounds per game, something he has done for nine consecutive seasons. He is also one of the best shot blockers in the league.

In a league where center depth is thin, Camby would be a welcome addition to just about any NBA front court. 

Antawn Jamison-Cleveland Cavaliers

Antawn Jamison hasn't had the best luck in his NBA career. He has played for bad teams almost exclusively.

Thought to be the missing piece for a championship in Cleveland, he struggled initially—the Cavaliers lost in the second round of the playoffs and we all know what happened after that.

A trade makes sense for both parties. The Cavaliers are clearly rebuilding and Jamison has only one year left on his contract. 

He has plenty of value as a player who can come off the bench, score, and hit the boards. He's not the star he used to be, but would be a fine sixth man for plenty of teams. 

Steve Nash—Phoenix Suns

At age 37, Steve Nash doesn't have many years left in him.

After seeing his former teammate and good friend, Dirk Nowitzki, win his first NBA Championship this season, I'm sure Nash is eager to get another chance.

But it won't happen with the Phoenix Suns.

There have been rumors of Nash going to the New York Knicks in the past, but Nash has said he wants to remain with the Suns. Deep down though, you have to believe he wants to play on a contender.

He's just too good of a guy to demand a trade. 

The temptation of playing with former teammate Amar'e Stoudemire and Carmelo Anthony could change that.