Luol Deng rumors: Los Angeles Clippers trade unlikely

Cleveland Cavaliers’ forward Luol Deng should be a pretty highly sought after free agent.

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Although he will likely wait until after New York Knicks’ forward Carmelo Anthony decides between the Knicks, Chicago Bulls, Houston Rockets, Dallas Mavericks and Los Angeles Lakers to make a decision of his own, Deng will have plenty of suitors.

The Atlanta Hawks, Chicago Bulls, Dallas Mavericks, Houston Rockets, Los Angeles Clippers and Miami Heat all have their eyes on Deng.

However, according to Sam Amick of The USA Today, trading for Deng seems like a long shot for the Clippers.

"A sign-and-trade for Deng that would send him to the Los Angeles Clippers also has been discussed, although it appears the Clippers’ steep asking price on a possible return is likely too high. The Miami Heat also have serious interest, but if LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh ultimately re-sign, it remains to be seen if they will be willing to pay what it might take to add Deng. He could be a possibility if James signs elsewhere as well."

Deng’s desire for a salary averaging $12 million per season may also have an impact on what suitors come after him. The Clippers, of course would love to land Deng or any other talented swingman – they reportedly have their eyes on Washington Wizards’ forward Trevor Ariza and head coach Doc Rivers has spoken to Brooklyn Nets’ win Paul Pierce about reuniting in Los Angeles.

Last season, Deng averaged 16.0 points, 5.7 rebounds, 2.9 assists and 1.0 steals per game while shooting 43.1% from the field, 30.2% from three and 79.1% from the charity stripe.

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