The NBA trade deadline always brings with it a whirlwind of excitement and speculation, and 2024 is no exception. As we approach this critical juncture, certain players who inked deals in the offseason are now eligible to be traded, injecting fresh dynamics into the league’s strategic considerations. Among them, Austin Reaves of the LA Lakers and other notable names are generating considerable buzz.
Austin Reaves: The Lakers’ Reluctant NBA Trade Chip
Despite the Los Angeles Lakers‘ less-than-stellar start this season, with a record of 19-21, the team appears ready for a significant revamp. Stars like Dejounte Murray and Zach LaVine have been linked with moves to LA, but the Lakers’ hesitation to include shooting guard Austin Reaves in trade talks has been a point of contention.
Dan Woike of The Los Angeles Times reports that the Lakers have not engaged in any discussions about trading Reaves. However, Reaves’ four-year, $53.83 million contract is now eligible for trade, opening the door for potential moves, especially if the Lakers become increasingly desperate to add a third star to their roster.
Toronto’s Jakob Poeltl: A Possible Move?
The Toronto Raptors, after trading two-way forward OG Anunoby to the New York Knicks, seem to be entering a phase of re-tooling. Having re-signed center Jakob Poeltl to a four-year, $78 million contract after his stint with the San Antonio Spurs, the Raptors have a valuable asset in Poeltl. Known for his solid rebounding, rim protection, and low-post scoring, the 28-year-old might be on the move as the Raptors look for younger options.
Rui Hachimura: Lakers’ Tradable Asset
Rui Hachimura of the LA Lakers, unlike Austin Reaves, seems more likely to be available for trade. With LA’s offensive rating struggling, Hachimura’s three-year, $51 million contract could be leveraged in a deal, potentially packaged with players like point guard D’Angelo Russell to attract a significant addition to the Lakers’ lineup.
The NBA trade deadline is 25 days away. It ends February 8th, 2024, at 3PM EST.
Should be fun! pic.twitter.com/ti7gCZcboC
— JDJackson (@TheWestWolfPod) January 14, 2024
Kyle Kuzma: High Demand for the Wizards’ Star
Kyle Kuzma of the Washington Wizards is enjoying a standout season, leading his team with 22.4 points per game. However, the Wizards’ poor record might push Kuzma, 28, towards the exit as he may not be keen on enduring a lengthy rebuild. His four-year, $102 million deal, augmented with $12 million in incentives, makes him an attractive option for teams looking for a proven player who can contribute significantly to a championship run.
Jerami Grant: The Prime Trade Target
Jerami Grant of the Portland Trail Blazers has been at the center of trade speculations in recent months. The veteran forward’s five-year, $160 million contract with Portland is substantial, but his consistent scoring ability and solid defense make him an appealing option for contenders despite the sizeable financial commitment.
The 2024 NBA trade deadline is shaping up to be a pivotal moment for many teams, with players like Austin Reaves, Jakob Poeltl, Rui Hachimura, Kyle Kuzma, and Jerami Grant in the spotlight. Their potential moves could significantly alter the landscape of the league, making this a period full of anticipation for fans and teams alike.
The decisions made in the coming weeks could define the futures of several franchises and set the stage for the next chapter in the NBA’s ever-evolving narrative.
