NBA Trade Rumors: Blockbuster Deals Waiting to Happen

Trade rumors have once again begun to run rampant throughout NBA circles and there are a handful of deals seem bound to go down at one point or another.

Whether it involves a player who was rumored to be on the move prior to the lockout or one who has only just made an appearance on the trade block, there are certain trades just waiting to happen.

An unprecedented number of superstars have emerged on the trading block, and as a result, an unheard of amount of blockbuster-caliber deals are sure to take place.

Monta Ellis for Andre Iguodala

A potential Monta Ellis for Andre Iguodala swap was discussed leading up to the lockout, and it is one that seems certain to be revisited now that the lockout is over.

The deal makes sense for both the Golden State Warriors and Philadelphia 76ers since it satisfies immediate needs on both ends.

Warriors coach Mark Jackson values defense above all else and Iguodala is an expert on that end of the court. The shooting guard's versatile nature and ability to score also ensures that Ellis' attributes are accounted for even in his departure.

In Ellis the 76ers get a high-octane scorer who can handle both the shooting and point guard duties. His production lines are consistent and he will be just the offensive punch Philadelphia needs to return to relevance.

Neither team is likely to find a better deal than the one they have already laid out amongst themselves.

Paul Millsap to the Indiana Pacers

The Indiana Pacers are clearly in the market for an effective power forward and are reportedly interested in pursuing Paul Millsap, whom the Utah Jazz seem open to dealing.

Indiana has been mentioned in regards to the likes of David West, Carl Landry and Kris Humphries, so it should come as no surprise that they are drawn to Millsap.

Millsap can score and defend, and is one of the more efficient big men in the league. The Pacers could use some help to sure up the middle, and the 26-year-old power forward would do just that.

While the aforementioned free agents all possess some appeal, Millsap's youth and athleticism is far more attractive. Expect the Pacers to place all their efforts into making this perfect match become a reality.

Josh Smith to the New Jersey Nets

The Atlanta Hawks opted to assess the trade market for forward Josh Smith, and the New Jersey Nets are believed to be among his list of preferred destinations.

Smith is a great fit for the Nets, who are in need of some additional offense and defense, as well as reasons for Deron Williams to stay long term. His consistent offensive abilities give Williams another target to dish off to and he could lead the Nets' charge on the other end of the ball.

While the Houston Rockets and Orlando Magic also remain possibilities, New Jersey has the largest number of assets and greatest need for a versatile forward out of the three. Smith not only gives Williams reason to remain, but also makes the Nets further appealing to Dwight Howard come next summer.

Don't be surprised to see Smith sporting a Nets jersey by the end of the trade deadline.

Chris Paul to the New York Knicks

Once Chris Broussard reported via Twitter that Chris Paul's preferred destination was the New York Knicks, and that he was willing to wait until free-agency to make such a move a reality, all the guess-work out of potential negotiations essentially vanished.

The Knicks and Paul have been linked since the point guard's infamous toast at Carmelo Anthony's wedding last summer, and rumors regarding a potential union are only going to increase from here.

Teams such as the Clippers and the Lakers could enter the fold as well, but neither has the luxury of being Paul's first choice.

New York does not have many assets to offer the New Orleans Hornets in exchange for Paul, but they do seem to have the star point guard on their side and potentially willing to exert his leverage.

And that should prove to be more than enough.

Dwight Howard to the Los Angeles Lakers

Dwight Howard has been the apple of the Lakers' eye for quite some time, and even after the lockout, the team plans to make a strong push for him.

Los Angeles has the ability to offer Andrew Bynum as a part of any deal, and that gives them an edge as he is arguably the most dominant big man who will be offered in exchange for Howard. He is nowhere near as consistent as Howard, but at least allows the Magic to remain competitive.

Lamar Odom is also certain to be part of any deal, and his versatility only helps the Lakers' case. The Clippers will attempt to enter the fold as well, but a Chris Kaman structured package is not as a appealing as a Bynum one.

If a big market is indeed what Howard craves, and if a superstar teammate is in fact a priority of his, a move to the Lakers is inevitable, as there are few markets as large as Los Angeles, and even less players with Kobe Bryant's abilities.

You can follow Dan Favale on Twitter here @Dan_Favale.