As the NBA season rolls on, many around the league are dealing with injuries and juggling rotations. However, teams are also making preparations for the trade deadline - which is still two months away. Here are all the latest NBA news and rumors you need to know:
What The Hawks Want For Paul Millsap
The trade of Kyle Korver to the Cleveland Cavs is a clear sign that the Atlanta Hawks are willing and likely to move some of their older core pieces. At the top of that list is forward Paul Millsap, who is perhaps the most likely player to be dealt before the trade deadline. According to ESPN's Marc Stein, the Hawks want at least a quality first rounder as the starting point for a Millsap deal. The question is, will any team (the Nuggets, Raptors or another suitor) be willing to part with that first, plus other assets, for the 31-year old set to hit free agency this offseason?
Trail Blazers Want Tyson Chandler?
The Blazers aren't playing well, but that hasn't stopped them from exploring trade options. Stein reports they have their eyes on Suns center Tyson Chandler.
Word is Portland, of late, has been tracking Tyson Chandler as a potential trade target, since the Phoenix center could certainly help the Blazers with their defensive issues.
But with two years left on his deal, at $26.5 million, it remains unclear how the Blazers would take on his salary. Plus, who knows if the Suns want to move Chandler since they kept him despite interest during the offseason.
Will Heat Deal Dragic?
With the Heat's struggles this year compounded by the injury Justise Winslow, it seems likely they'll eventually give up on the season. That means a trade of Goran Dragic could be an option. But for the time being, the Heat's asking price for Dragic is too high, reports Stein. However, Stein adds that might not remain the case.
Nets' Asking Price For Brook Lopez
The Nets are in full-on rebuilding mode and perhaps their biggest asset left is big man Brook Lopez. But Stein reports their asking price is insanely high, with the Nets wanting two first round picks. Now maybe that assumes two late first rounders, but that's way too high for a back-to-the-basket big man who isn't rebounding well and has a large contract.
Who's Not Being Shopped?
Stein points to three well-known players who aren't being shopped by their teams. Jimmy Butler of the Chicago Bulls, Wesley Matthews of the Dallas Mavericks and DeMarcus Cousins of the Sacramento Kings are off the market, per Stein. The Bulls and Kings seem intent on building around their two stars, while the Mavs are rejecting trade overtures for Matthews.