Fantasy Basketball: Trade Rumors
The 2020-2021 NBA season has differed from past seasons in that it is shortened.
With fewer games, each one has more meaning. Teams want to make upgrades that can make them contenders or fill the final piece of the puzzle.
James Harden being traded in January sent shockwaves through the NBA community that changed the course of several teams. The trade deadline is March 25 and below we’ll discuss players who could be on the move.
Andre Drummond, C, Cavaliers
The double-double machine is having a solid season for the Cavs putting up 17.5 points and 13.5 rebounds per game.
However, when the Cavaliers acquired another center in Jarrett Allen, Drummond became expandable. Allen is a younger player on a cheaper contract. It was announced that Andre Drummond will sit out while the team looks for a trade partner.
Drummond is speculated to go to the Raptors, Knicks and/or Mavericks. A trade could boost his fantasy value for his usage and would also benefit Jarrett Allen, who would be thrust into a starting role.
Lonzo Ball, G, Pelicans
Lonzo Ball is a polarizing player who is seen in both a positive and negative light by fans.
This season, Ball has played as a spot up shooter, which has boosted his scoring but at the cost of limiting his playmaking. This season he is averaging 14 points per game, a career high, but only 4.7 assists and 4.3 rebounds per game, both career lows. Ball’s 3-point efficiency remains 38% and he shoots 50% from the field.
Ball never fulfilled his full potential since being drafted No. 2 overall. He is a free agent at the end of this season and his current team, the Pelicans, are unsure if they want to extend his contract.
A trade could mean a better role for Lonzo Ball and opening in the Pelicans rotation for other guards Eric Bledsoe and Nickeil Alexander-Walker.
Bradley Beal, G, Wizards
Out of the three players listed, Beal is the least likely to be traded. He is loyal to his team and does not want to be moved.
The Wizards guard is dominating this season and feels out of place on a 9-17 team, currently out of the playoff hunt. A trade could put Beal on a contending team and boost his chances to win a championship.
Beal was just named an East All-Star starter and justified that decision with stats of 32.8 points per game to go with 4.7 assists and 5.2 rebounds. Beal is leading the NBA in scoring and no matter what team he’s on, he will be a top fantasy option.
Matt Noah is a sophomore majoring in journalism. To contact him, email matthewnoah29@gmail.com.
