The Los Angeles Lakers have also expressed interest in trading for former All-Star center Brook Lopez, who could end up playing with the Oklahoma City Thunder if the proposed three-team trade materializes.
Yahoo Sports NBA insider Adrian Wojnarowski reported that the Nets top-brass are now accelerating trade talks in an attempt to move Lopez, who hasn't lived up to his lucrative deal.
Lopez, who is earning at least $15M this season and could pocket roughly the same amount next season if he exercises his player's option, is averaging 14.6 points, 6.3 rebounds and 1.6 blocks in 26 minutes of playing time.
While his stat-line isn't shabby at all, Lopez inability to stay healthy over the past couple of years because of a nagging foot injury along with questionable work ethic has reportedly triggered the Nets front-office, headed by general manager Billy King, to pursue a deal.
However, Wojnarowski is now reporting that the Hornets have been dropped from the negotiation as the Nets now look to work out a straight-up deal with the Thunder involving Lopez and the expiring contract of Kendrick Perkins.
"Nets unwillingness on Lance Stephenson has Brooklyn focused on dealing directly with Thunder for Brook Lopez, league sources tell Yahoo," posted by Wojnarowski.
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