NBA Trade Rumors: Expected Players to Be Traded in the Current Season

The NBA season is heating up, and trades are a common occurrence, especially as teams try to make strategic moves to improve their standings and future prospects. This article delves into some of the prominent trades expected in the current season, focusing on the Orlando Magic, Denver Nuggets, and other teams whose rotations and lineups could see significant changes.

Orlando Magic: Adjusting the Roster for the Future

Two big men from the Orlando Magic, Serge Ibaka and Nikola Vucevic, are expected to be traded before the deadline. Both players have faced expectations to contribute significantly to the team, especially to elevate Aaron Gordon to power forward, giving him more minutes and playing time. Vucevic, in particular, is 5 years younger than both Ibaka and himself, indicating the Magic's desire to build for the long term.

Potential trade destinations for Ibaka include the Toronto Raptors, Miami Heat, and Boston Celtics. These teams might see him as a versatile player capable of scoring, blocking shots, grabbing rebounds, and providing assists. Similarly, Vucevic could find a new home with any of these teams, given his skills and potential to elevate the play of his new team.

Denver Nuggets: Addressing Defense and Positioning

Another notable trade rumor involves the Denver Nuggets. Danilo Gallinari, a skilled scorer, is also expected to be traded this season. The Nuggets need more defensive options, and with multiple players, including Chandler Barton, Harris Barton, and Gees, clashing over shooting guard and small forward positions, a trade could alleviate this overcrowding.

Potential destinations for Gallinari include the Brooklyn Nets (now the L.A. Clippers) and the Toronto Raptors. Both teams value his sharp shooting and defensive attributes, which they believe can significantly impact their rotations and lead to better overall performance.

Philadelphia 76ers: Addressing the Big Men Underclass

One of the most talked-about trade scenarios in the Philadelphia 76ers involves trading either Nerlens Noel or Atiba Okafor before the deadline. With the presence of Ben Simmons and Joel Embiid, the Sixers have an excess of big men, and they have made it clear that Embiid is the future of the team. As a result, they could look to trade one or both of Noel and Okafor to regain more valuable assets or create more roster flexibility.

The Portland Trail Blazers have shown interest in Noel, while other potential trade targets could include teams like the Los Angeles Lakers or Cleveland Cavaliers. Okafor could also find a new home with teams looking to bolster their middle and power forward positions.

Chicago Bulls: Needing a Scoring Point Guard

The Chicago Bulls are also in the market for a player who can score from the bench and provide assist when needed. It is believed that the Bulls may trade Rajon Rondo to the Phoenix Suns in exchange for Brandon Knight. Rondo, known for his sharp shooting and ability to assist, could fit the Bulls' needs well.

Potential trade destination for Rondo is the Phoenix Suns, where his experience and tactical playmaking skills could benefit the Suns during the crucial early to mid-season period.

Conclusion

As the NBA season progresses, more trades and roster changes are likely to occur. These moves could significantly impact the balance of power within the league. Teams like the Orlando Magic, Denver Nuggets, Philadelphia 76ers, Chicago Bulls, and others are actively exploring ways to enhance their strategic position for the future.