Phoenix Suns point guard Goran Dragic could be available on the trading block, while the Portland Trail Blazers have reportedly shown interest in acquiring Gerald Wallace from the Boston Celtics.
The NBA trade period has officially begun with all players - including those signed just last summer - are now all available for trade discussions.
The Suns, who have apparently picked what they left off last season as a playoff contender, haven't done anything to improve their roster besides signing Eric Bledsoe to a lucrative five-year, $70 million deal in the offseason.
But according to Basketball Insiders writer EJ Ayala, the Suns could soon make their move on the trading front, and there's a chance Dragic or Isaiah Thomas might be used as trade bait to address other needs, especially at the center and small forward position.
"I do expect the Suns to be heavily involved in trade talks as we near the trade deadline. There's simply too much talent in the backcourt and something's gotta give. All those guys deserve minutes and while I know you said that you'd hate to see Goran Dragic stay I see both him and Isaiah Thomas as guys they could consider moving," Ayala stated on his recent chat session.
Dragic, who could become an unrestricted free-agent next summer by opting out from the final year of his contract, has already expressed his desire to test the free-agency market. According to NBA analysts, Dragic could get more than the $7.5M paycheck right now, as multiple teams are expected to call his numbers.
"Dragic has been vocal in the media saying he's willing to evaluate his options after this season considering the teams crowded backcourt and would surely command more than $7.5 mil a season when considering what guys are being paid these days," according to Ayala.
The 28-year old Dragic is averaging 16.1 points, 4.0 assists and 3.4 rebounds per game this season, which is slightly lower than the stats (20.3 points and 5.9 assists) he put up during his Most Improved Player of the Year run last season.
Meanwhile, the market hasn't dried out yet for Boston Celtics veteran small forward Gerald Wallace. Gary Washburn of the Boston Globe reported that the Blazers might be interested to bring back Wallace, who would provide them leadership and perimeter defending in limited minutes.
"Don't be surprised if a team such as the Portland Trail Blazers tries to make a bid for Celtics swingman Gerald Wallace and offers some unwanted expiring contracts for Boston's troubles. Wallace, 32, played parts of two seasons with Portland and enjoyed his stint there," Washburn stated.
"He was seen joking during the Celtics-Blazers game with Portland All-Star forward LaMarcus Aldridge. The closer Wallace's anchor-like contract nears conclusion, the easier it will be to move. Wallace is attractive to a club seeking a veteran leader who can defend in spot minutes."
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