The trading season has officially started when the Cleveland Cavaliers struck a deal to acquire Atlanta Hawks sharpshooter Kyle Korver. Korver is not expected to be the biggest name to be traded this season, as there are superstars who will likely be dealt before the deadline next month.
Los Angeles Clippers power forward Blake Griffin and Sacramento Kings center DeMarcus Cousins are two of the names who could change zip codes next month, Forbes reported. Both players have been mentioned in numerous trade rumors over the past several months.
Griffin has been the face of the Clippers franchise for the past several years. However, this season could be his last in Los Angeles if they fail to win or get close to winning a title this year.
Griffin, who is averaging 21.2 points and 8.8 rebounds this season, could become free agent after the current season. The 27-year-old could opt out of the final year of his contract - either to find a greener pasture elsewhere or get a more expensive contract from the Clippers.
The Clippers might decide to trade Griffin before the deadline instead of running risk of losing him for nothing next summer. However, it is worth noting that teams who are interested in Griffin might ask for a commitment from the 27-year-old power forward before giving up assets.
Meanwhile, Cousins is still continuously being mentioned in trade rumors. The Kings have already stated that they are leaning towards keeping Cousins, but most analysts are convinced that a blockbuster offer might turn the table around in Sacramento.
The Boston Celtics were named as a potential landing spot for the 26-year-old center, who is averaging 28.1 points and 10.0 rebounds per game this season. However, it remains to be seen if the Celtics have the necessary pieces to pull off a huge trade with the Kings next month.
But for now, Cousins is still in Sacramento and the Kings are not showing desire to move on from the mercurial center. In fact, the former Kentucky standout could receive a $200-million contract next summer, ESPN reported. The Kings could use their Designated Player Extension option to convince Cousins to stay in Sac Town.