The NBA trade season started with a major move by the Oklahoma City Thunder and Chicago Bulls. The Thunder traded young guard Josh Giddey to the Bulls for veteran guard Alex Caruso. This trade signals the beginning of the NBA’s busy trade season, laying the groundwork for the upcoming draft and free agency.
Knicks Considering Moving Mitchell Robinson
Reportedly, the New York Knicks are looking to trade center Mitchell Robinson. From a financial perspective, it is logical for them to try to extend the contract of key center Isaiah Hartenstein, but they are constrained by Early Bird Rights. The Knicks could give Hartenstein a pay increase of 75%; however, other teams may offer more money. New York may be leaning towards trading Robinson, who has had some reliability issues due to injuries despite his low salary. Substituting him with Precious Achiuwa, a cheaper alternative, may improve their team’s total worth.
Jazz is open to Trading Walker Kessler
Reportedly, the Utah Jazz are willing to trade their young center, Walker Kessler. Kessler, known for his skills in protecting the rim, is still under a cost-effective rookie deal for the next two seasons. The Jazz have experienced varying levels of success when Kessler plays as a reserve, and his compatibility with non-shooting forward John Collins is uncertain. If the Jazz opt to trade Kessler, they may net a substantial outcome, potentially revealing a broader game plan.
Bulls Struggling to Move Zach LaVine
The Chicago Bulls are having trouble trading Zach LaVine’s expensive deal. Getting rid of Alex Caruso could have been a bargaining chip in trading LaVine, but without Caruso, the Bulls don’t have much leverage for a LaVine trade. The Sacramento Kings could be an option; however, the match isn’t ideal due to their recent extension of Malik Monk. The Bulls continue to face a complex challenge in trying to trade LaVine’s contract.
Paul George’s Future Uncertain
The status of Paul George with the Los Angeles Clippers is uncertain. The Clippers are unsure about giving him a long-term, top-dollar contract, and other teams, such as the 76ers, are less interested now. ESPN’s Brian Windhorst suggested another option for George: keep his $48.8 million player option and ask for a trade. While the potential for risk exists, as shown by James Harden’s situation last year, this approach may result in George securing a lengthy contract sooner rather than later.
Conclusion
During the busy NBA trade season, teams are working to finalize their rosters for the upcoming 2024–25 season. The NBA trade between Thunder and Bulls is only the start, as there are big moves and speculation about players such as Mitchell Robinson, Walker Kessler, Zach LaVine, and Paul George. In the upcoming weeks, we can expect to see additional thrills and changes in strategy within the league.
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