Insider Request: Chad Ford Trade Watch

[gsuteke]

http://insider.espn.go.com/nba/insider/columns/story?columnist=ford_chad&page=TradeWatch-110126&action=login&appRedirect=http%3a%2f%2finsider.espn.go.com%2fnba%2finsider%2fcolumns%2fstory%3fcolumnist%3dford_chad%26page%3dTradeWatch-110126

[Joker]

Most people here aren't insiders. Post the part that involves us.

[capstone21]

The rumors are flying fast and furious. But, unlike in previous years, most NBA general managers are not burning up the phone lines.

It has been strangely quiet leading up to this year's trade deadline, and part of that has to do with the endless Carmelo Anthony saga. The on-again, off-again nature of the talks not only has kept fans and observers waiting but also has held up GMs all over the league. And with a potential Anthony trade now delayed even further, many teams are caught in limbo.

But it's not the only thing slowing down trade talks. With so much uncertainty surrounding a new collective bargaining agreement that could force a lockout this summer, many owners are reluctant to take on more salary or significant commitments, at least until they have a better handle on the new rules. So although there are plenty of teams selling big contracts, there are few takers right now.

Still, even with those two significant hurdles, we know there will be some trades in the next few weeks.

Who will be dealt before the deadline? After talking with teams throughout the league, here's a look at 10 players -- in addition to the one causing so much melodrama in Denver -- who could be changing uniforms by Feb. 24.

We'll keep updating this list until then as new rumors emerge and trades happen.

Impact players most likely to be moved

(Ranked from most likely to least likely to be traded)

Jamison 1. Antawn Jamison, F, Cavaliers

Jamison sat atop this list last year, as well, and was traded in February, from the Wizards to the Cavs. At the time, many believed Jamison was the missing piece of the puzzle in Cleveland's quest for a title. We all know how that worked out.

One year later, the Cavs are the worst team in the league. They are in the midst of a brutal 18-game losing streak, and owner Dan Gilbert is promising big changes. With one year left on his deal after this one, Jamison's contract isn't the easiest to move. But the veteran wants out, and he could still help a number of teams contending for a title. The odds are high that he'll be wearing a new uniform soon.

Miller 2. Andre Miller, PG, Blazers

Miller was also high on this list last year but, unlike Jamison, wasn't traded. The thinking last winter was that Miller had struggled to adapt to Portland's culture and, more specifically, to coach Nate McMillan. Miller's addition has always been viewed as less of a slam dunk and more of a desperation ploy by the Blazers, who felt compelled to use their cap space on Miller in the summer of 2009 after being spurned by Hedo Turkoglu.

Now, there's an entirely different problem. The team has been decimated by injuries, and dreams of competing for a title this season have flown out the window. Miller's contract is also not guaranteed next season, making the 34-year-old an attractive target for a veteran team trying to shore up its backcourt. The Blazers have been hunting for help just about everywhere, and if they can get a young player or an asset for him, they'll pull the trigger.

Prince 3. Tayshaun Prince, F, Pistons

We should just go ahead and rename this list the "Tayshaun Prince Trade Watch." Prince has been on the block for years, but the Pistons have yet to find a deal that works for them.

Why should this season be different? Several reasons.

One, Prince, along with teammate Rip Hamilton, has mentally checked out. Two, Prince's contract expires this summer, making him attractive to GMs who don't want to make long-term commitments right now. Three, he can still play (he averages 15 points and five rebounds per game) and would really help a number of teams competing for a title. Finally, the Pistons need to do something.

Although they've tried hard to trade Hamilton, there isn't a huge market for him -- if they can get some cap relief for him, they'll be happy. Prince is a better asset, and the rebuilding Pistons need to use him to improve their talent base. Although it's possible he won't get traded (again), it's never been more likely that he will be.

Randolph 4. Anthony Randolph, F, Knicks

OK, I'm cheating a bit here. Randolph isn't an impact player, by anyone's definition, but he's a player with big-time upside. Many GMs still believe that, with playing time and the right coach, Randolph could be a star. Unfortunately for Knicks fans, Mike D'Antoni and GM Donnie Walsh aren't in that group.

New York has been hunting for a first-round pick for Randolph to use in a Carmelo Anthony trade, but if Melo goes to New Jersey, the Knicks might settle for swapping Randolph for a veteran or two on short contracts who can help in the playoffs.

Randolph 5. Zach Randolph, PF, Grizzlies

Randolph is having another big, big season in Memphis, averaging 20 points and 13 rebounds. But he's an unrestricted free agent this summer, and it's unlikely the Grizzlies will re-sign him.

Not only has Randolph privately expressed a desire to play on a bigger stage but the Grizzlies probably can't afford him. They gave Rudy Gay a near-max deal this summer, greatly overpaid Mike Conley and have prioritized re-signing restricted free agent Marc Gasol this summer. Unless owner Michael Heisley wants his payroll to hit $65-67 million next season, Memphis likely will pass on re-signing Randolph.

But the Grizzlies don't want to lose Randolph for nothing, which is why we're hearing his name more and more the past few weeks. O.J. Mayo could be on the move, as well.

Williams 6. Mo Williams, PG, Cavaliers

Sources say that the Cavs have been quietly calling around looking for a home for Williams. Two years ago, Williams was an All-Star. Now, the team is struggling to get anyone to take on the two years and $17 million left on his contract after this season. A hip injury that Williams is nursing isn't helping matters, nor is the fact that Williams' shooting numbers are down across the board.

But he just turned 28 years old and can still help a team. Chances are the Cavs will find a taker.

Harris 7. Devin Harris, PG, Nets

The Nets are not sold on Harris as their point guard of the future, and things didn't get better when Harris' former coach, Avery Johnson, took the reins in New Jersey.

Harris would likely be part of any Anthony deal the Nets might do. But even if the Nets are really out of the Carmelo sweepstakes, Harris, along with their expiring contracts and draft picks, should help them get another key player.

Lewis 8. Rashard Lewis, F, Wizards

Lewis has already been traded once this season. Could it happen again?

That's the word we're getting from several GMs. The Wizards are in rebuilding mode, and Lewis' presence hasn't exactly turned the team around. The Wizards are 6-12 since the trade, and Lewis continues to struggle shooting the ball.

Lewis still has a full $21 million due to him next season and has a partially guaranteed contract for 2012-13 that will pay him a minimum of $10 million, so he's not cheap. But for a team a little closer to competing in the playoffs, he might be worth the risk -- at least, that's what the Wizards are hoping.

Granger 9. Danny Granger, F, Pacers

The Pacers have long maintained that Granger is the core of their team and off limits. However, as our own Marc Stein has reported, a number of GMs in the league now believe Granger could be had for two major assets. Granger isn't having a career season, but he is only 27, has a reasonable contract and is the type of player every coach wants in the locker room.

What is Indiana looking for? Ideally, it'd get a power forward and a 2-guard who can create his own shot off the dribble. It would take a pretty big package for Indiana to let go of Granger, but it sounds as if, for the first time, he's no longer untouchable.

Nash 10. Steve Nash, PG, Suns

Suns president Lon Babby has been adamant that he's not trading Nash. That's why Nash is at the bottom of the list and not at the top. But there are GMs who believe Babby's stance might soften as we get closer to the deadline.

The Suns are no longer a contender and are on the verge of a major rebuilding project. Although Nash has said publicly that he's standing by the Suns, it doesn't make much sense for either party to keep going this direction.

Nash is still playing like an All-Star and could have a chance at winning a title elsewhere. More importantly for the Suns, he's their only major asset right now. The other players on their roster don't have a lot of trade value, but several teams would give up a lot to land Nash. If the Suns are serious about rebuilding, it might be time to say goodbye.

[JohnnyCASH]

The rumors are flying fast and furious. But, unlike in previous years, most NBA general managers are not burning up the phone lines.

It has been strangely quiet leading up to this year's trade deadline, and part of that has to do with the endless Carmelo Anthony saga. The on-again, off-again nature of the talks not only has kept fans and observers waiting but also has held up GMs all over the league. And with a potential Anthony trade now delayed even further, many teams are caught in limbo.

But it's not the only thing slowing down trade talks. With so much uncertainty surrounding a new collective bargaining agreement that could force a lockout this summer, many owners are reluctant to take on more salary or significant commitments, at least until they have a better handle on the new rules. So although there are plenty of teams selling big contracts, there are few takers right now.

Still, even with those two significant hurdles, we know there will be some trades in the next few weeks.

Who will be dealt before the deadline? After talking with teams throughout the league, here's a look at 10 players -- in addition to the one causing so much melodrama in Denver -- who could be changing uniforms by Feb. 24.

We'll keep updating this list until then as new rumors emerge and trades happen.

Impact players most likely to be moved

(Ranked from most likely to least likely to be traded)

Jamison 1. Antawn Jamison, F, Cavaliers

Jamison sat atop this list last year, as well, and was traded in February, from the Wizards to the Cavs. At the time, many believed Jamison was the missing piece of the puzzle in Cleveland's quest for a title. We all know how that worked out.

One year later, the Cavs are the worst team in the league. They are in the midst of a brutal 18-game losing streak, and owner Dan Gilbert is promising big changes. With one year left on his deal after this one, Jamison's contract isn't the easiest to move. But the veteran wants out, and he could still help a number of teams contending for a title. The odds are high that he'll be wearing a new uniform soon.

Miller 2. Andre Miller, PG, Blazers

Miller was also high on this list last year but, unlike Jamison, wasn't traded. The thinking last winter was that Miller had struggled to adapt to Portland's culture and, more specifically, to coach Nate McMillan. Miller's addition has always been viewed as less of a slam dunk and more of a desperation ploy by the Blazers, who felt compelled to use their cap space on Miller in the summer of 2009 after being spurned by Hedo Turkoglu.

Now, there's an entirely different problem. The team has been decimated by injuries, and dreams of competing for a title this season have flown out the window. Miller's contract is also not guaranteed next season, making the 34-year-old an attractive target for a veteran team trying to shore up its backcourt. The Blazers have been hunting for help just about everywhere, and if they can get a young player or an asset for him, they'll pull the trigger.

Prince 3. Tayshaun Prince, F, Pistons

We should just go ahead and rename this list the "Tayshaun Prince Trade Watch." Prince has been on the block for years, but the Pistons have yet to find a deal that works for them.

Why should this season be different? Several reasons.

One, Prince, along with teammate Rip Hamilton, has mentally checked out. Two, Prince's contract expires this summer, making him attractive to GMs who don't want to make long-term commitments right now. Three, he can still play (he averages 15 points and five rebounds per game) and would really help a number of teams competing for a title. Finally, the Pistons need to do something.

Although they've tried hard to trade Hamilton, there isn't a huge market for him -- if they can get some cap relief for him, they'll be happy. Prince is a better asset, and the rebuilding Pistons need to use him to improve their talent base. Although it's possible he won't get traded (again), it's never been more likely that he will be.

Randolph 4. Anthony Randolph, F, Knicks

OK, I'm cheating a bit here. Randolph isn't an impact player, by anyone's definition, but he's a player with big-time upside. Many GMs still believe that, with playing time and the right coach, Randolph could be a star. Unfortunately for Knicks fans, Mike D'Antoni and GM Donnie Walsh aren't in that group.

New York has been hunting for a first-round pick for Randolph to use in a Carmelo Anthony trade, but if Melo goes to New Jersey, the Knicks might settle for swapping Randolph for a veteran or two on short contracts who can help in the playoffs.

Randolph 5. Zach Randolph, PF, Grizzlies

Randolph is having another big, big season in Memphis, averaging 20 points and 13 rebounds. But he's an unrestricted free agent this summer, and it's unlikely the Grizzlies will re-sign him.

Not only has Randolph privately expressed a desire to play on a bigger stage but the Grizzlies probably can't afford him. They gave Rudy Gay a near-max deal this summer, greatly overpaid Mike Conley and have prioritized re-signing restricted free agent Marc Gasol this summer. Unless owner Michael Heisley wants his payroll to hit $65-67 million next season, Memphis likely will pass on re-signing Randolph.

But the Grizzlies don't want to lose Randolph for nothing, which is why we're hearing his name more and more the past few weeks. O.J. Mayo could be on the move, as well.

Williams 6. Mo Williams, PG, Cavaliers

Sources say that the Cavs have been quietly calling around looking for a home for Williams. Two years ago, Williams was an All-Star. Now, the team is struggling to get anyone to take on the two years and $17 million left on his contract after this season. A hip injury that Williams is nursing isn't helping matters, nor is the fact that Williams' shooting numbers are down across the board.

But he just turned 28 years old and can still help a team. Chances are the Cavs will find a taker.

Harris 7. Devin Harris, PG, Nets

The Nets are not sold on Harris as their point guard of the future, and things didn't get better when Harris' former coach, Avery Johnson, took the reins in New Jersey.

Harris would likely be part of any Anthony deal the Nets might do. But even if the Nets are really out of the Carmelo sweepstakes, Harris, along with their expiring contracts and draft picks, should help them get another key player.

Lewis 8. Rashard Lewis, F, Wizards

Lewis has already been traded once this season. Could it happen again?

That's the word we're getting from several GMs. The Wizards are in rebuilding mode, and Lewis' presence hasn't exactly turned the team around. The Wizards are 6-12 since the trade, and Lewis continues to struggle shooting the ball.

Lewis still has a full $21 million due to him next season and has a partially guaranteed contract for 2012-13 that will pay him a minimum of $10 million, so he's not cheap. But for a team a little closer to competing in the playoffs, he might be worth the risk -- at least, that's what the Wizards are hoping.

Granger 9. Danny Granger, F, Pacers

The Pacers have long maintained that Granger is the core of their team and off limits. However, as our own Marc Stein has reported, a number of GMs in the league now believe Granger could be had for two major assets. Granger isn't having a career season, but he is only 27, has a reasonable contract and is the type of player every coach wants in the locker room.

What is Indiana looking for? Ideally, it'd get a power forward and a 2-guard who can create his own shot off the dribble. It would take a pretty big package for Indiana to let go of Granger, but it sounds as if, for the first time, he's no longer untouchable.

Nash 10. Steve Nash, PG, Suns

Suns president Lon Babby has been adamant that he's not trading Nash. That's why Nash is at the bottom of the list and not at the top. But there are GMs who believe Babby's stance might soften as we get closer to the deadline.

The Suns are no longer a contender and are on the verge of a major rebuilding project. Although Nash has said publicly that he's standing by the Suns, it doesn't make much sense for either party to keep going this direction.

Nash is still playing like an All-Star and could have a chance at winning a title elsewhere. More importantly for the Suns, he's their only major asset right now. The other players on their roster don't have a lot of trade value, but several teams would give up a lot to land Nash. If the Suns are serious about rebuilding, it might be time to say goodbye.

ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhh the sweetest is #10 :bedtime2:

[gsuteke]

Thanks Cap

[yungsta]

too bad we never look to make trades or any big moves

[capstone21]

Just because you don't hear anything does not mean that the Hawks have not been working the phones.

[bird_dirt]

no centers, but 4 of the top 10 are pg's.

i'd take miller, williams, harris or nash any day over teague or bibby starting.

granger for a pf and a a 2-guard who can create his own shot off the dribble? if we (as we are likely to) miss out on melo, i'd try to ship marvin and crawford to indy for granger. he's still not a c or pg, but it'd still help, and he'd cost us a lot less than melo would.

too bad we never look to make trades or any big moves

yeah, sixth man of the year and second leading scorer for scrubs doesn't amount to much. neither does trading for a big upgrade at pg for scrubs that helped push us into the playoffs for the first time years.

now, the subsequent re-signing or non-re-signing of said players is another story, but those trades were worthy moves that improved us, and seemed to come out of left field.

[yungsta]

yeah, sixth man of the year and second leading scorer for scrubs doesn't amount to much. neither does trading for a big upgrade at pg for scrubs that helped push us into the playoffs for the first time years.

now, the subsequent re-signing or non-re-signing of said players is another story, but those trades were worthy moves that improved us, and seemed to come out of left field.

i meant to put rarely make big moves. We did get crawford last year which helped us improve. Im just irritated with the hawks right now :(

Edited January 28, 2011 by yungsta

[Joker]

no centers, but 4 of the top 10 are pg's.

i'd take miller, williams, harris or nash any day over teague or bibby starting.

granger for a pf and a a 2-guard who can create his own shot off the dribble? if we (as we are likely to) miss out on melo, i'd try to ship marvin and crawford to indy for granger. he's still not a c or pg, but it'd still help, and he'd cost us a lot less than melo would.

yeah, sixth man of the year and second leading scorer for scrubs doesn't amount to much. neither does trading for a big upgrade at pg for scrubs that helped push us into the playoffs for the first time years.

now, the subsequent re-signing or non-re-signing of said players is another story, but those trades were worthy moves that improved us, and seemed to come out of left field.

I would take Nash. Harris at a price, I don't even want to trade Jamal for Devin. I would rather trade Marvin and picks. No Mo, I watch his games to see has he improved without Bron and he's a poor PG. He's not a starting NBA PG. He's more of a 6th man unless Lebron is controlling the offense.

[yungsta]

i would love to have nash but anyone else thinking about the future? we all know hes 36 years old

[dalamchops]

Smoove/Jamal + 1st for Granger/Collison

or

Smoove/Jamal for Granger/Ford.

[frosgrim]

Smoove/Jamal + 1st for Granger/Collison

or

Smoove/Jamal for Granger/Ford.

These deals have merrit. I would rather the first deal as I am not a big fan of Ford's game.

Wonder if Indy would go for it though? I think they'd rather do the second deal as they just traded for Collison.

[dalamchops]

Add teague also for collison

[macdaddy]

There are a lot of guys on that list that we could use. What about Zach for a half season rental? It probably wouldn't take much to get him. Nash would top my list, Harris would be nice, Granger and Prince would make us pretty potent.

[ATLNY7]

I would do a deal for Tayshaun Prince. He is shooting 49% from the field and 41% from three.

[frankthetank966]

IF ALL THESE RUMORS ABOUT PG's ARE TRUE, THATS A BIG IF. We need to make this happen. Bibby is over performing and will not be here past this year. We have a great chance to get a young stud PG such as Harris and Williams. We need to make this happen. We could become a beast of a team with one of those guys.

[Admin]

There are a lot of guys on that list that we could use. What about Zach for a half season rental? It probably wouldn't take much to get him. Nash would top my list, Harris would be nice, Granger and Prince would make us pretty potent.

The problem is that we don't have anyone with high enough salaries to move for these guys unless we're trading away our core players. Zach is making nearly $18 million so it would really deplete us to acquire him. Nash would be ideal because he's signed to an extremely good deal at $10 million, Harris' deal is even better at roughly $9 million and finally Granger and Prince aren't bad either at $11 million. Jamal or Marvin plus a little filler would have to be the big salary we're sending out in order to not break up our core, but for Granger it would almost certainly cost us Smoove.

A deal I'd LOVE to see would be something like Marvin/Teague/1st for Harris and Damion James. If they really don't believe that Harris is their future at PG and they aren't using him to acquire Melo they might consider that since Marvin would be an upgrade at SF for them and Teague would have a real chance at developing with the young Nets. Harris is young enough to be our PG of the future and instantly improves our offense and defense and not only do we get to keep Jamal but we now also have Bibby to score off the bench. You could move Evans into the starting lineup at SF or keep Smoove there long term and James could be brought along slowly but would be a solid defender to have off the bench on the wing.

[sasuke]

Any of those pgs will be cool for the right price.