The NBA trade deadline is fast approaching, and teams are buzzing with rumors and potential deals. With less than two days left, the league is abuzz with speculation and anticipation. While not many trades have been finalized yet, that is expected to change as the deadline draws nearer. Let’s take a closer look at some of the latest trade rumors circulating around the league.
Bucks Eyeing Andrew Wiggins
The Milwaukee Bucks are reportedly eager to make a trade, but they face some challenges in doing so. In recent years, trades for Jrue Holiday and Damian Lillard required a significant portion of their draft capital. Currently, all they have available are two second-round picks. Additionally, their roster lacks enticing young players, making it difficult to pursue big-name players without including Bobby Portis in the deal.
However, the Bucks have shown interest in Golden State Warriors forward Andrew Wiggins. Wiggins’ toughness and shooting ability have caught the attention of Bucks head coach Steve Kerr. Despite their need for frontcourt depth, the Bucks are hesitant to part ways with Portis. Nonetheless, their pursuit of Wiggins demonstrates their commitment to improving their perimeter defense, a weakness they hope to address before the trade deadline.
76ers Targeting Buddy Hield and Bojan Bogdanovic
The Philadelphia 76ers suffered a significant setback when MVP Joel Embiid was diagnosed with a torn meniscus that required surgery. Despite this setback, the Sixers remain active in the trade market. Two players they have set their sights on are Buddy Hield of the Indiana Pacers and Bojan Bogdanovic of the Detroit Pistons.
Both Hield and Bogdanovic are seasoned veterans known for their outside shooting prowess. Adding them to the Sixers’ roster would enhance their spacing and provide additional offensive firepower, whether or not Embiid returns to the court soon. Moreover, both players have contracts that make them attractive trade targets, as they would not burden the Sixers with long-term financial commitments.
Celtics Seeking Marginal Upgrades
The Boston Celtics currently boast the best record in the league and hold a comfortable lead in the Eastern Conference. However, they are still looking to bolster their roster. While their starting lineup is formidable, their bench has been inconsistent. As a result, the Celtics are exploring ways to make marginal upgrades, potentially utilizing their $6.25 million trade exception.
Among the players on their radar are Otto Porter Jr. of the Toronto Raptors and Lonnie Walker of the Brooklyn Nets. Porter brings championship experience and would provide the Celtics with another versatile wing player known for his defensive abilities. On the other hand, Walker has been a reliable scoring option off the bench for the Nets this season, offering the Celtics another offensive threat in the backcourt.
As the trade deadline looms, teams across the league are actively engaged in discussions and negotiations. While many deals have yet to materialize, the anticipation and excitement surrounding potential trades continue to build. Fans eagerly await the final hours leading up to the deadline, hoping to see their favorite teams make moves that will strengthen their chances of success in the NBA.