Odds on a trade deadline move for 4 marquee NBA teams
The Thunder and Cavs are buying, but what about the Warriors and Spurs -- what are they doing? SportsLine's oddsmakers break down the gameplans as Thursday's deadline looms.
The NBA trade deadline is Thursday, and annually it's an exciting time -- or nerve-wracking time -- to be a fan or player.
As teams look to improve for the stretch run or get a head start on its future, SportsLine's oddsmakers have set lines for four marquee teams looking to buy or sell (updated following the Lakers' trade for Isaiah Thomas involving Jordan Clarkson and Larry Nance).
CLEVELAND CAVALIERS
George Hill, Kings 5/1
DeAndre Jordan, Clippers 7/1
Kemba Walker, Hornets 15/1
The Cavaliers are unwilling right now to part with Brooklyn's first-round pick it is in ownership of -- their No. 1 trade chip -- which is hindering talks with the Kings and Clippers. Talks between the Cavs and Clippers for Jordan continued into Thursday And they're still working with the Kings as the clock ticks.Â
The Clippers would reportedly now be OK holding onto Jordan and Lou Williams for the rest of the season, though that report has been met with some skepticism. Cleveland has competition for Jordan, including the Trail Blazers and the rival Bucks, as well as the Wizards.
PICK: The Cavs aren't offering much more than roster filler for Hill. But if (when?) Sacramento decides it would prefer the financial flexibility it gets by trading Hill and the $19 million he's owed next year, and the Cavs up their offer just a little, he'll end up in Cleveland. Go with Hill.
GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS
No moves 1/2
Draft picks 3/1
The Warriors were reportedly looking to bolster their bench given its inconsistent play, and inquired about the Clippers' Avery Bradley. But talks didn't go anywhere. There are additional reports that center JaVale McGee is available. At age 29 and making the league veteran minimum, there are teams that may be interested.
But let's be real: The Warriors don't need to make moves for the present or the future.
"These other teams can build teams but to have the type of chemistry that the Warriors have I think is always what's going to make them impossible to beat in seven games," said retired forward Matt Barnes. "You may steal a game here or there but you're not going to beat this team four times. There's no chance."
PICK: The Warriors are under no pressure to make a move. They have four All-Stars, are the defending champions and the heavy, heavy favorites to win it all again. Expect no moves and just enjoy the show.
OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER
Tony Allen, Bulls 5/1
Avery Bradley, Clippers 5/1
Rodney Hood, Jazz 5/1
Jonathon Simmons, Magic 12/1
Dewayne Dedmon, Hawks 15/1
No moves 15/1
The season-ending injury to starter and defensive standout Andre Roberson caused a big shift in the rotation. His replacement, rookie Terrance Ferguson, has not filled Roberson's starting spot as well as hoped.
The Thunder have been linked to many names, and are definitely looking to add as the deadline looms. But they are not in a good place in terms of salary cap or attractive, tradeable assets. Their best chance is to make a last-hour move with a team desperate to unload before it's too late.
PICK:Â The top goal for the Thunder is to acquire Bradley, a lock-down perimeter defender. If the asking price is too high, they can get Allen at a lower price. But OKC is all-in on this year. Look for the Thunder to get it done and get Bradley.Â
SAN ANTONIO SPURS
No moves 2/1
Avery Bradley, Clippers 8/1
Joakim Noah, Knicks 15/1
The Spurs are 34-21 and in third place in the Western Conference despite having star forward Kawhi Leonard for just nine games (quad). Leonard has been "shut down indefinitely," so the Spurs may need reinforcements to remain a top-three team.
Avery Bradley is a big name to watch, but would the Spurs be willing to part with the reported asking price of a first-round pick? Tough to say at this point.
PICK: The Spurs have made just five trade deadline moves in the last 18 years, and none in the last five years despite almost always being in a buying position. The smart bet is on the team holding pat once again.
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