NBA Trade Rumors Intensifying Ahead of Deadline
As the NBA Trade Deadline nears, there are sure to be plenty of rumors to stir controversy. Often times, we see some of the largest names on the move. at the right price. Here are the latest centerpiece players to hit the rumor mill:
Kevin Loves clashing with management
The Cleveland Cavaliers and Kevin Love have been stuck with one another for far too long. As he sits under contract through the 2022-23 season, it’s been difficult finding a trade suitor with enough cap space to take on someone of Love’s caliber.
Recently, we have seen tensions rise both on and off the court. During a loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder, Love seemed visually frustrated with teammates towards the end of the first half.
After management threatened to fine him for his actions, Love doubled down claiming “Go ahead. I have plenty of money”.
The heavy favorites to land the veteran happen would be the Portland Trail Blazers. With a combination of draft picks and players on expiring contracts, the two sides will likely find time to negotiate a deal.
Conflicting Andre Drummond reports
Ahead of the deadline, the Detroit Pistons are expected to talk with multiple teams about the possibility of moving on from Andre Drummond. Among the suitors will be the Atlanta Hawks and Chicago Bulls.
When asked about the trade speculation, Drummond refuted any rumors that came to surface.
“I’ve been dealing with this since the year I signed my contract so the trade rumors will always come around, so this is another year for me,” Drummond said. “It’s always that time of year around January where trade talks come. Nothing’s happened. Obviously, the talks have started, so these questions will start to come. I’ve been looking forward to them coming, but for me, I’m just going to continue to play the game I play, play here in Detroit where I love to be, and whatever happens, happens.”
Lakers eyeing Kyle Kuzma trade?
Despite regarding Kyle Kuzma as “untouchable” during negotiations for Anthony Davis, the Los Angeles Lakers are now willing to listen to pitches for their forward.
While this is merely viewed as “due diligence” for Rob Pelinka and the rest of the front office, the Sacramento Kings have emerged as suitors. In order for a deal to take place, the Kings would need to include sharpshooter Bogdan Bogdanovic in any offer.
The Lakers, who are clearly in win-now mode, will likely receive multiple offers for him. However, it’s unlikely that any deal will be executed before the deadline.
Marcus Morris gaining interest
According to multiple reports, there is clear interest for New York Knicks’ Marcus Morris. The two teams heavily involved for the big man include the Philadelphia 76ers and Los Angeles Clippers.
The Clippers particularly are interesting, considering they are short on draft picks following their recent trade for Paul George. They do have their 2020 first round pick available, but would likely hold onto it for the time being.
The Knicks are high on Morris at the moment, and he has expressed his interest in remaining with the team past the deadline.
Photo Credit- Chris Schwegler, Getty Images
