NBA teams in need of a rim protector heading into the 2018 trade deadline will have no shortage candidates from which to choose.
While the market for shooters and wing defenders may be more tepid, rim protectors aplenty could find themselves on the move between now and Thursday. From reserves and middling starters to All-Star-caliber bigs, there’s a wide range of appealing trade targets.
The following rim protectors won’t all wind up on new teams by Friday, as their incumbent franchises’ asking price may be unreasonably high. The Chicago Bulls effectively set the price on first-round picks with their decision to ship Nikola Mirotic to the New Orleans Pelicans, which could adversely affect other trade conversations in the coming days.
Some teams that appeared poised to sell off their veterans could reevaluate those plans if they’re within striking distance of a playoff spot, while others may stubbornly refuse to accept the reality of their respective situations. It’s in the best long-term interest for the Memphis Grizzlies and Los Angeles Clippers to part ways with their respective franchise bigs, but breaking up with such cornerstones is easier said than done.
Which players will frontcourt-needy teams be sniffing around over the next 72 hours? Let’s dive in to explore.
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