NBA Trade Rumors: James Harden, Andrew Wiggins and other targets

NBA Trade Rumors: James Harden, Andrew Wiggins and this year’s most likely trade bait

LAKE BUENA VISTA, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 10: James Harden #13 of the Houston Rockets reacts during the third quarter against the Los Angeles Lakers in Game Four of the Western Conference Second Round during the 2020 NBA Playoffs at AdventHealth Arena at the ESPN Wide World Of Sports Complex on September 10, 2020 in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /

4 of 5

Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images /

2. John Collins

John Collins is another young player who may not fit in with his franchise’s long-term plans. The Atlanta Hawks spent a lot of money to bring in both Danilo Gallinari and Bogdan Bogdanovic during the offseason. The addition of Gallinari, in particular, gives Atlanta a crowded frontcourt rotation.

Remember, Atlanta already made a big move to land Clint Capela to man their center position last year. Collins is projected to start at the 4, but he needs to carve out the majority of his playing time at power forward, where Gallo is most effective.

The fact that Collins is looking for a massive contract extension only complicates matters for Atlanta. The Hawks’ front office hasn’t given any indication that they’re ready to give Collins anything close to a maximum-level extension. If these contract talks break down any further, it’s easy to envision Collins being placed on the trade block.

The reality is that the Hawks need to trade Collins before they either lose him for nothing in restricted free agency or wind up overpaying to retain him. Odds are Collins won’t be moving to a playoff team, but he still could be one of the biggest names moved during the year.

Home/NBA