21 up-for-grabs players who may play a starring role in NBA trade deadline rumors

Malcolm Brogdon, Washington Wizards

Now on his third team in three seasons, it feels like Malcolm Brogdon's name is becoming a staple in these rumors. After being dealt to the Washington Wizards via the Portland Trail Blazers in a sudden draft night trade this past offseason, it wouldn't be surprising if teams immediately started calling to inquire about his availability.

Brogdon, 31, doesn't fit the timeline of the rebuilding Wizards, who are now fully committed to the growth of Alex Sarr, the No. 2 overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft. While it's nice to have a veteran in the locker room to guide the younger players, being able to stock up on assets could be an even better approach for a team so far off from contention.

The 2022-23 Sixth Man of the Year will likely have a decent market. In Portland last season, he put up 15.7 points, 5.5 assists and 3.8 rebounds per game while shooting 41.2 percent from behind the arc. Plenty of teams would love to have a sweet-shooting, playmaking guard who can also bring defense in their backcourt to provide a second-unit jolt.

Two things that might cause some hesitancy in a Brogdon trade are his contract and injury history. He's on the books for $22.5 million this coming season, which is hefty, especially when he hasn't played in 70 games since his rookie season and has played under 40 in two of the past three years due to various injuries. With those factors combined, some may view it as too much of a gamble.

Yet, if Brogdon starts the season with Washington, plays well and stays healthy, perhaps his expiring contract would become more enticing for teams looking to make a last-minute push.