Hot NBA Trade Commodities Ahead of the Deadline

Story posted January 27, 2022 in CommRadio, Sports by Grant Sheets

With just over two weeks before the NBA trade deadline, a handful of organizations around the league are scrambling to bolster their rotations for a playoff push after the All-Star break. Likewise, we are bound to see a few struggling teams sell high and build for the future.

There are also the 18-31 Sacramento Kings, and no one really knows what to make of their positioning in the trade market. Some rumors suggest they could blow it all up and send off De’Aaron Fox, while others claim they may make a move for a disgruntled Ben Simmons in a matter of weeks.

Only time will tell what direction all 30 franchises will go when the clock strikes 3 p.m. on Feb. 10. In the meantime, let’s look at some of the hot names on the market and some potential suitors.

Jerami Grant, Detroit Pistons

In the basement of the Eastern Conference, the Detroit Pistons will likely look to ship off forward Jerami Grant, who has already provided a list of teams that he would prefer to be traded to.

Despite missing a large chunk of time due to injury, the 27-year-old is averaging a team-high 20.1 points per game. Grant is eligible for a contract extension after this season, a factor that will play a major role for potential suitors.

Thanks to Grant’s ability to play either forward position, the Pistons will be receiving plenty of calls over the next few weeks. According to Bleacher Report, the Wizards are “leading the chase,” with teams such as the Lakers, Knicks and Celtics also in the mix.

Marcus Smart, Boston Celtics

In the midst of an underwhelming season, the 25-24 Boston Celtics’ brass may feel inclined to make a big move at the deadline, potentially including one of their key veteran pieces.

According to Bleacher Report’s Dan Swartz, the Boston and the Atlanta Hawks are currently in talks regarding guard Marcus Smart. While Smart has been a steady force for Boston on both ends of the floor, it appears that the organization is ready for change.

One name that has surfaced as a potential trade piece for Smart is forward John Collins, who could fill an immediate hole in the starting lineup. Boston is yet to find consistency on the offensive end, so the versatility of Collins at power forward would certainly help create better spacing on a nightly basis.

Meanwhile, pairing Smart with All-Star guard Trae Young could be a lethal pairing in Atlanta as they continue to climb their way back into the playoff mix.

James Harden, Brooklyn Nets

While the Brooklyn Nets’ front office has stated that they are not looking to move guard James Harden, the former MVP is “frustrated” with the team’s recent performance.

One of his former teammates, Kendrick Perkins, recently stated that Harden desires to play in Philadelphia alongside All-Star center Joel Embiid. At this point in time, it appears that Perkins’ claims are merely speculation, but it is worth noting that 76ers’ president Daryl Morey has publicly shown significant interest in the Nets’ guard.

In the unlikely event that Brooklyn decides to part ways with Harden at the deadline, Ben Simmons would certainly be a name to watch in a potential trade package.

 

Grant Sheets is a first-year majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact him, please email gcs5231@psu.edu.