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1 Deal Each Team Could Make Before Trade Deadline

By Jake Hyman

Nov 21, 2015; Orlando, FL, USA; Sacramento Kings forward DeMarcus Cousins (15) looks for a passing lane during the first quarter of a basketball game against the Orlando Magic at Amway Center. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 21, 2015; Orlando, FL, USA; Sacramento Kings forward DeMarcus Cousins (15) looks for a passing lane during the first quarter of a basketball game against the Orlando Magic at Amway Center. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 16, 2015; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; New Orleans Pelicans forward Ryan Anderson (33) dribbles the ball as Utah Jazz forward Trevor Booker (33) defends during the first half at Vivint Smart Home Arena. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 16, 2015; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; New Orleans Pelicans forward Ryan Anderson (33) dribbles the ball as Utah Jazz forward Trevor Booker (33) defends during the first half at Vivint Smart Home Arena. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports /

1. Atlanta Hawks

A first-round pick is hard to relinquish for any team, but as a perennial playoff contender, Atlanta could sacrifice future plans for more immediate ones. At 18-12, the Hawks are just one game out from the No. 1 seed in the East and have ample amounts of competition in the much-improved Southeast Division.

Both Orlando and Miami have made the jump into playoff contender status after missing the festivities last season.

If Atlanta wants to make a quick fix and push for a higher ceiling in the East, New Orleans power forward Ryan Anderson looks to be an ideal target. Anderson’s name has consistently been brought up regarding trade talks in recent weeks and has crafted himself into one of the league’s premier stretch four players.

Anderson’s currently in the midst of another productive campaign in the Big Easy averaging 17.4 points and 6.5 rebounds per game. For the rebuilding Pelicans, a first-round pick is an enticing commodity to pair with what looks to be a high pick in this year’s draft.

Anderson would instantly be a frontcourt upgrade over Mike Scott, who also encompasses the stretch four role with a lower ceiling. He’d also be a bulletproof fit next to Tiago Splitter on the second unit and wouldn’t give up huge production when starter Paul Millsap needs a breather.

Shelvin Mack is a rotational guard who could give Alvin Gentry and the Pelicans depth and is shooting a solid 45.0 percent on the season.

It’s a risk to part with a first-round pick, but the trade makes sense for both teams as New Orleans could get a pick anywhere from 15 to 30 in a jumbled Eastern Conference race. It allows Atlanta to possibly take the next step in their repeat for an Eastern Conference Finals appearance.

Next: Boston Makes the Push for Cousins