NBA Trade Rumors: Why Each Rumored Team Needs to Land Chris Paul

New Orleans Hornets guard Chris Paul now looks like he can be traded sooner rather than later, and there are plenty of teams lined up to acquire his services.

Here's a quick look at why each team needs to step up and land him.

Los Angeles Lakers

Dwight Howard would probably be a better fit in Los Angeles, but if they are intent on acquiring both players, then they can start with Paul. They need a makeover as a team and could benefit from acquiring a floor general at point guard.

As it stands now, the Lakers are exposed at point guard by most teams in the Western Conference.

Los Angeles Clippers

The Clippers have some young talent to offer and adding Paul to a team that includes Blake Griffin and others immediately makes them players in the West. After that they can turn their focus to Howard as well.

Golden State

The Hornets want Stephen Curry and while he would be very tough to part with, as it stands now the Golden State backcourt was the highest scoring duo in the NBA a season ago, but they are also one of the smallest.

Signing Tyson Chandler is also rumored to be a big help for Paul to sign an extension and the Warriors need a big man.

Boston

Danny Ainge is looking to make a splash to take advantage of his Big Three's best days winding down, and adding Paul might be just the thing. He's great defensively and would fit in nicely in Boston.

New York Knicks

The Knicks need to acquire Paul to put an end to all the speculation and the rumors that they eventually will get him in 2012. Despite not having the trade assets to deal for him, until Paul signs a contract extension, the Knicks still remain the front-runner for him next season.