NBA: Top trade targets still available following James Harden trade
By Dalton Sell
Although the NBA trade deadline is still nearly two months away, teams are already looking ahead following the recent James Harden trade.
The biggest trade domino in the NBA has fallen with James Harden being traded to the Brooklyn Nets. The disgruntled star being shipped to Brooklyn in a massive four-team deal forced teams to cross the most significant trade target off their list of options, and now, they must pivot elsewhere.
While there will not be many superstars to trade for, several names are potentially on the trade market that could allow some teams to make noise in the standings ahead of the postseason. Whether it be role players, stars, or a combination of both, several players could make this coming trade deadline a thrilling experience. Without further ado, here are some of the NBA’s top targets potentially still available on the market.
NBA top trade targets still available – P.J. Tucker, Houston Rockets
The Houston Rockets granted James Harden his wish by trading him, and swingman P.J. Tucker could be next. Tucker has voiced his frustration with the organization in the past several months due to his current contract situation, and teams have taken notice.
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The Athletic’s Kelly Iko recently reported that several teams have checked in on Tucker’s availability. On an expiring contract worth about $8 million, the forward has an easily digestible salary made more intriguing by his production level on the court. Averaging 6.8 points on .400/.369/.737 shooting splits, six rebounds, 1.2 assists, and 1.2 steals across the past three seasons, Tucker has been a viable role player on this team.
Tucker’s most compelling quality is undoubtedly his robust defensive prowess, able to guard even the most sizeable defenders, despite standing at just 6’5″. On top of that, the 35-year-old is a solid 3-point shooter, particularly from the corner. For teams looking to shore up their defense and add a serviceable threat from the perimeter, P.J. Tucker is someone they should make a run at.