Trade season has officially begun in the NBA with almost all players signed last offseason now available for trade discussions. For the Los Angeles Lakers, the time has arrived for them to make moves if they are determined to keep themselves in the Western Conference playoff race.
Although there isn't much talent left on their roster due to injuries, the Lakers are still capable to pull off a deal using some of their remaining 'trade assets' in the form of draft picks and expiring contracts.
Jordan Hill, who has become the best player for the Lakers outside Kobe Bryant this season, has already drawn trade interest from multiple teams.
Averaging 12.8 points, 8.6 rebounds and 1.0 block per game, the 27-year old Hill is certainly an interesting trade target for teams that need more beef to their frontline and an energy guy that could contribute solid numbers off the bench.
According to sources, the Lakers aren't too keen in dealing away Hill, who has a $10M team option for next season. However, their stance could change if a very enticing offer is presented on the table.
The Houston Rockets have always been mentioned as a perfect fit for Hill, while the Cleveland Cavaliers and Brooklyn Nets are other possible suitors for the service of the 6-foot-10 big man.
Meanwhile, the name of Jeremy Lin has also been thrown as a possible trade chip for the Lakers, because of his huge expiring contract ($8M. The 26-year old Lin started for the first 20 games for the Lakers, averaging 11 points and 5 assists. However, his inconsistency and defensive miscues prompted Byron Scott to pull him out of the starting five.
It's clear as crystal that Lin isn't happy at all with his current situation with the Los Angeles Lakers, more so after he was relegated to the bench. With the NBA trade season officially starting this week, there will be no shortage of rumors about the future of the Asian American star.
The Detroit Pistons could be an intriguing destination for Lin because of their fast-paced offense and their influx of talented big guys who could benefit well from Lin's pick-and-roll mastery.
The Pistons only need to dispatch Brandon Jenning's $8M per year contract in exchange for Lin's $8M expiring contract, which could get them the flexibility to sign a mid-level player next summer.
The Lakers might also package both Lin and Hill for a disgruntled star. Rajon Rondo, Josh Smith or even Brook Lopez are all available on the trading block, and it appears this combination of these players would be enough to get Kobe Bryant’s sidekick.
Then, there's Steve Nash's expiring contract worth more than $9M. Although it's still unknown which team will dare to eat such contract, the Knicks and Nets, two teams facing luxury tax problems, might be interested to absorb Nash.
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