The NBA Trade Deadline is next Thursday and rumors are swirling about multiple players. Whether or not we see a lot of deals remains to be seen, but all we can do until then is speculate.
With that said, what teams are the best fit for certain trade candidates? Here are the best landing spots for the four most rumored players.
4. Cam Johnson
Best fit: Cleveland Cavaliers
Johnson is in the midst of a career-best season, averaging career-highs in points (19.4), field-goal percentage (49.1 percent), and assists (2.9). His style of play is perfect for any contender, but Cleveland would be the best spot for him.
The Cavs have the best offensive rating in the NBA at 121.1, but adding Johnson would give them another off-ball scorer and shooter. He also gives them a bigger body on the wing, something that has been a weakness for Cleveland this season.
Johnson’s 3 and D playstyle is plug and play for the Cavaliers and helps them gear up for a deep postseason run in a tough Eastern Conference. I outlined before why Cleveland should do whatever it takes to acquire him and that should still be their goal.
3. Zach LaVine
Best fit: Milwaukee Bucks
After an injury-riddled season last year, LaVine has bounced back in a big way. He is averaging about 24 PPG on 51 percent shooting and a scorching 44.6 percent from three-point range. He has been one of the most efficient offensive players in the NBA, as he is near the top of the league in isolation scoring, pull-up jump shots, and transition scoring.
So how does he fit the Bucks? Well, outside of Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard, Milwaukee does not have a lot of scoring punch. They could use a third perimeter scorer, especially with Khris Middleton looking like a shell of himself.
The Bucks also have a defensive issue, specifically on the perimeter, and while LaVine may not fix that, he makes their offense even more explosive. There aren’t many teams that would be able to stop that offensive trio in the playoffs.
2. Jimmy Butler
Best fit: Golden State Warriors
With the Miami Heat lowering their asking price for Butler, many teams, including the Warriors have put themselves back in the mix.
Golden State is desperate for more scoring firepower outside of Stephen Curry and Butler fits the bill. He is in the midst of a down season, but much of that can be attributed to the fact that he has been trying to angle his way out of Miami.
Butler gives Golden State a proven playoff performer and consistent two-way ability that the roster lacks right now. Since December 1st, Golden State is in the bottom five in the NBA in offensive rating. They do not have a guy that can take the pressure off of Curry and Butler fits the bill. His slashing and playmaking ability will help solve their issues.
1. De’Aaron Fox
Best fit: San Antonio Spurs
Fox reportedly already has his eyes on the Spurs so he can team up with Victor Wembanyama and the fit is perfect.
San Antonio has been searching for a volume scoring guard to pair with their star big for the last two years and Fox fits their timeline perfectly. He is in the middle of his prime, averaging about 25 PPG and six assists, and is one of the best clutch scorers in the NBA.
In addition to that, Fox is a plus defender and pairing him with Stephon Castle would give the Spurs one of the best young backcourts in the West, especially as Castle continues to develop. Having an All-Star caliber guard next to Wemby would open the Spurs’ contention window for the next few seasons.