NBA Trade Deadline Countdown! 5 Potential Blockbuster Deals
Ben DiGiacomo
Host · Writer
Bruce Brown to New York
The New York Knicks have arguably been the best team in the Eastern Conference over the past month, and who is to say they won't make another move before the trade deadline? The OG Anunoby deal has been a slam dunk for them, so they might as well go all in. Bruce Brown is a name I'd like to see the Knicks inquire about since the Raptors appear motivated to flip him for picks as they rebuild, and the Knicks have plenty available. Brown can serve as this team's sixth man or even as a spot-starter, just as he did throughout the Denver Nuggets' championship run last season, so it makes sense for the Knicks to add to their roster.
Dejounte Murray to Los Angeles
Dejounte Murray and the Lakers have been linked for what feels like weeks now, and I expect a deal to be done eventually. According to reports, only the Lakers and Utah Jazz have made significant offers to the Hawks for Murray's services. I don't anticipate the Jazz surrendering enough assets to get a deal done when they aren't trying to win now. On the other hand, the Lakers are trying to milk every last ounce of potential from this current team, as it's unclear what LeBron James has in mind with his son expected to be drafted this June. The Lakers need a ball-handler, and D'Angelo Russell isn't getting the job done. I expect the Lakers to push their chips in, hoping to make a late-season run like last year.
Forwards to Dallas
Outside of Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, the Mavs lack scoring talent on the wings. Currently constructed, the Mavericks aren't good enough, despite the absurd season Doncic is putting together. I expect the Mavs' rumored interest in acquiring a scoring wing to come to fruition before the deadline. They should look into Miles Bridges, but I question if they are willing to part with the assets necessary to land him. I'm looking to his teammate PJ Washington to be a primary target for the Mavs. Washington has no issues scoring, and his defensive length would pair nicely with Dereck Lively II down the stretch. Other names like Kyle Kuzma and Jerami Grant could be of interest if the Mavericks want to add someone more long-term, but Washington feels like the easiest move for them to pull off.
DeMar DeRozan to Philadelphia
No one really has any idea what the 76ers will do at the trade deadline, especially considering the questions surrounding Joel Embiid's potential recovery. Still, DeMar DeRozan has been mentioned and seems like a great fit. I think the 76ers would like to take Tyrese Maxey out of a point guard role more often and use him in more off-ball situations. DeRozan is capable of carrying that load at times. His scoring punch and veteran presence are desperately needed for a 76ers team where Tobias Harris has struggled as the third option. Reportedly, the 76ers are willing to part ways with a first-round pick to land DeRozan, but I'd like them also to get Andre Drummond, as he would address their need for center depth during Embiid's absence.
Miles Bridges to Phoenix
It sounds like Miles Bridges will be traded, and it's just a matter of when. No team has been more linked to his services than the Phoenix Suns. The Suns need pieces, as their lack of depth has been evident. Bridges can provide energy as a starter but also lead the second unit offensively. The Suns may be able to pull off a deal for a couple of their prospects who don't see the floor and a handful of second-round picks. Bridges's immediate impact would be worth whatever they give up.
Bruce Brown to New York
The New York Knicks have arguably been the best team in the Eastern Conference over the past month, and who is to say they won't make another move before the trade deadline? The OG Anunoby deal has been a slam dunk for them, so they might as well go all in. Bruce Brown is a name I'd like to see the Knicks inquire about since the Raptors appear motivated to flip him for picks as they rebuild, and the Knicks have plenty available. Brown can serve as this team's sixth man or even as a spot-starter, just as he did throughout the Denver Nuggets' championship run last season, so it makes sense for the Knicks to add to their roster.
Dejounte Murray to Los Angeles
Dejounte Murray and the Lakers have been linked for what feels like weeks now, and I expect a deal to be done eventually. According to reports, only the Lakers and Utah Jazz have made significant offers to the Hawks for Murray's services. I don't anticipate the Jazz surrendering enough assets to get a deal done when they aren't trying to win now. On the other hand, the Lakers are trying to milk every last ounce of potential from this current team, as it's unclear what LeBron James has in mind with his son expected to be drafted this June. The Lakers need a ball-handler, and D'Angelo Russell isn't getting the job done. I expect the Lakers to push their chips in, hoping to make a late-season run like last year.
