Despite some fans, media members, and critics of the NBA saying this will be the worst NBA Finals in recent memory, and potentially in history, this finals matchup will actually be really good that’s beneficial to the league.

Not only is it beneficial to the league, but also to small market teams, rising players, overall storylines, the fate of the draft, and even how teams should be constructed for the future.

With all that being said, let’s dive right into this.

The Rise Of The Next Faces Of The NBA

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Tyrese Haliburton have been on a sensational tear season after season. Both players have had a historic season that resulted in individual career definers and team definers.

Haliburton is revolutionizing the point guard position and what it means to be an all-around player commanding an underdog team to an impressive postseason run.

Gilgeous-Alexander continues to prove why the mid-range game is still alive and well, boosting not only himself, but also his team. This season being the biggest for him, winning MVP and having the opportunity to become the Greatest OKC Thunder ever.

Besides both players showing their clutch abilities, abilities to not choke under pressure, and be an efficient machine, they both have taken the next step in their young journeys to become that superstar figure.

The amount of obstacles and postseason challenges they had to go through to get to this point is more than what some other superstar-caliber players have been able to do.

For fans, Anthony Edwards and Jayson Tatum are quickly being ruled out as the “next face of the NBA.” They find Tatum to be corny and not that guy, whereas with Edwards, they want him to be that guy but he continues to stumble each postseason. Plus, Edwards has gone on record to say he doesn’t want to be that guy.

Shai and Haliburton have made the game of basketball meaningful again with their styles of play, not just taking a bunch of threes and wishful shooting, as time after time rise to the occasion and become the “IT guy.”

Both these players want to be the faces of the league, ready to embrace the moments; you can’t force fans to accept a player as the new, exciting face of the league. Players like Shai and Haliburton have to gravitate towards the audience, and the audience is accepting them right now.

Smaller Market Teams Can Make It

One of the biggest critics the NBA has seen in recent memory is that the game of basketball has turned into big market franchises securing giant-name players and seeing who can spend the most to form “Big 3’s” and “superteams” to win rings. However, last season and this season have proven the exact opposite can happen.

This should not only change those narratives, but should give hope to the fans who are fans of small market teams.

Indiana built from the ground up and took a flyer on a guy who wasn’t even wanted by his original team – the Sacramento Kings. Indiana stuck with their core, developed their players (like Andrew Nembhard, Aaron Nesmith), made risk-free trades (like Obi Toppin), and drafted solid players. Plus, they didn’t give up much to acquire Pascal Siakam – a game changer for the Pacers.

The same can be said for OKC, how so? Well, they took a flyer on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and it paid off, they stuck with their core, they drafted very well, they made minimal-to-risk-free trades, and made sure not to blow it up quickly because things weren’t progressing fast enough.

Does it take time? Yes, absolutely. However, when you are patient and component in the decisions you make, then they’ll pay off. Coaching matters, so does the front office. Both teams put a lot of time and energy to get both corrected. Now both organizations are benefiting from that.

So many teams want to blow it up after a mediocre season, or just coming up short, but OKC and Indy did the exact opposite. Funny enough, both teams are in the postseason. See the Phoenix Suns as an example, they blew it up after just falling short of winning a championship and now are a bottom-feeding organization.

Patience and competence are important, it doesn’t matter if the market the team is in is big or small. Pacers and Thunder are living proof of that. Long-term over short-term is the better option.

More Storylines That Can Expand Fan’s Interests

When LeBron James retires, the NBA is going to need something new to talk about. New trendy topics, storylines, and players to focus on. It can’t always be revolved around the Los Angeles Lakers, Boston Celtics, or Golden State Warriors.

When the likes of LeBron and Stephen Curry step down and pass the torch, it will go to guys like Haliburton and Shai. The Thunder have a legit chance of being underdogs to going on a dynasty. From their overhaul of picks to developing talent that’s turning into legit talent, their future is not only set up, but has the chance of winning a couple of rings.

The Pacers can have the same future of always being a threat in the Eastern Conference; being able to be the “new blood” the East needed.

Storylines of new duos, East against West rivalries, small market teams finding success, new superstars being born, MVP races, and so much more can be birthed due to this NBA Finals matchup. The possibilities are endless. Think about how intense and enjoyable the Bucks-Pacers rivalry has turned into over two postseasons.

With both teams having young rosters, spearheaded by two superstars who are only 25 and 26 years old, this can bring in fresh waves of fun, entertainment, and new powers to both conferences.

This Highlights The Importance Of The Draft

Not only does this re-spark interest in the draft and what that would mean for teams of smaller, or larger, sized markets, but also fan interest. Beyond all that, there is a reassurance in draft classes for teams where they wouldn’t need to break the bank to get a high quality superstar when they can find one and develop.

The example of Chet Holmgren is a very good one, he was an immediate impact on the court for OKC. Another example that required some patience is Nembhard, as he was seen as a pseudo starter and an impactful role player in his second season in the league. That was last season.

While Holmgren went second, Nembhard went 31st. It goes to show how many good players are throughout the draft, plus combine that with correct development, then teams can really set up their future the right way.

Beyond the previous drafts, OKC has so many first-round picks that they’ll always be able to get solid quality and keep having strong depth and a young core. They are the ultimate blueprint on how a team should go about picks, goals for the future, and development on traded-for or drafted players.

The “Blow It All Up” Method Isn’t End-All-Be-All

From 2020 to 2022, Indiana had a dark period of being an underperforming franchise who couldn’t put together a winning season or find their way past the Play-In Tournament.

They had okay-solid pieces, but nothing to get them to that next level that was plaguing them in the East. In the 2022-23 season, where they finished 11th, Indiana could have easily blown it up.

The Pacers had Haliburton, Buddy Hield, Myles Turner, veteran talent, guys still in the development process (Nesmith), and new rookies (Bennedict Mathurin, Nembhard). Most rebuilding/struggling teams who can’t make it work will definitely trade majority of their players for either “win-now” guys or draft picks that put them regular season purgatory until they can cash in on those picks.

Despite doing what is so common in the NBA, the Pacers decided to make minimal moves that didn’t require a bunch of output to climb out of the hole they were in. They gave it another season, which saw them solidified as the sixth seed.

How did this happen? They didn’t break the bank to get Siakam, Toronto were ready to move on and Indiana jumped on it. They took a flyer on Toppin, who turned into a solid bench piece who has been explosive this current season/postseason.

The Pacers continued to develop players, trust their coach Rick Carlisle, allow for the team to gel together, and retain their young prospects from any potential trades. In a span of three seasons, Indiana went from being the 11th seed to the 4th seed.

They went from missing the postseason to making back-to-back ECF trips and finally punching their ticket to the NBA Finals. An incredible turnaround that wasn’t built on the “blow it all up” concept.”

Conclusion:

In short, this Pacers-Thunder NBA Finals matchup is a very good thing for the overall consumer of basketball, for the NBA, and for the product’s teams. This Finals matchup sets a new precedent of not blowing it up, patience over impatience, player development, trusting coaches more, and that it takes a team and not just two or three players.

It fizzled out with LeBron James and Luka Doncic, it also fizzled out with Anthony Edwards, Rudy Gobert, and Karl-Anthony Towns. It didn’t work for Phoenix’s “Big 3” of Devin Booker, Kevin Durant, and Bradley Beal. For the Warriors, Jimmy Butler and Stephen Curry couldn’t do it alone.

However, it didn’t fizzle out for OKC or Indy. Two teams people were calling “overhyped,” “overrated,” and who would crash and burn in the postseason. The exact opposite took place, as their whole depth chart took them to the NBA Finals.

That’s not luck, that’s skill, determination, and meticulous planning. Significant difference. For both teams, this isn’t the only year for them to win a championship. Honestly, that window can be from now into the next five years.

After seeing what these two organizations have done, don’t be shocked if other teams follow suit in their blueprint and try to mimic that.

Two weeks ago, The Athletic asked NBA players who they thought was the most overrated player in the association. Their response? Tyrese Haliburton. Fast forward two weeks, and the same “overrated” man has eliminated 64-win Cleveland Cavaliers in five games.

Even back it up a series prior where he dismantled Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Milwaukee Bucks, which some were not expecting.

After that horrific poll came out to slander his name, Haliburton has responded humbly and has let his performances do all the talking. In fact, that’s this entire Pacers’ team mentality and ability. I’ll address their underrated season(s) in a separate article.

For now, let’s explore why Haliburton is only not overrated, but most definitely underrated.

Game 2 Against The Cavs

To refresh memories, and to have a good start to lay the foundation, I take us all the way back to Game 2 where Indiana secured a 2-0 lead over Cleveland.

In 84 seconds, an “overrated player” scored seven points. This included the game-winning three-pointer to seal the deal. What makes this even better is the fact that Haliburton did it in Cleveland with fans chanting “overrated” and trying to get into his head.

When the moment calls for it, the 25-year-old rises up and doesn’t shy away. That’s what up-and-coming superstars do.

Game 5 Against The Cavs

To send Mitchell’s team home, Haliburton clutched up and dropped 31 points on them. He had a very efficient game of going 10/15 from the field. Plus, eight assists, six rebounds, one steal, and one block.

He was one of the main factors to the Pacers climbing out of a 19-point deficit. Let’s not forget about that tiny detail.

He left it all out on the court, statistically and what’s not counted, for his team to move onto the Eastern Conference Finals.

Overall Against The Cavs

Throughout this entire series, Haliburton was spot on and was electrifying to watch. Yes, he had a bad Game 3. However, he would later make up for that in Game 5. Game 4 was a pure domination from Pascal Siakam, Myles Turner, and Obi Toppin. He wasn’t needed in that game.

As a side note, which is the beauty of the Pacers. They have so many options on that team that can pop off at any moment that you don’t know who’s going to lead them statistically; not because they are bad, but because they are that good and talented.

When a team has quality, reliable depth, they won’t have to struggle game-to-game on who will be that guy. Indiana has at least five players who can be that guy when their number is called into the spotlight.

Plus, it helps when you have an orchestrator in Haliburton. I’ll get to that in a minute.

Haliburton Is The Epitome Of Mr. Clutch

Throughout this entire postseason and season, Haliburton has been able to showcase his composure in stressful situations and how to excel when the game is on the line.

Haliburton is 10-for-11 when taking a shot to tie or take the lead in the final 90 seconds of the 4th quarter or overtime this season.

That is 91% percent, and nobody nationally is giving him his props. Some players within the NBA is not giving him his props.

How could someone be overrated when they are producing this type of statistic?

Future star of the NBA Cooper Flagg said it best: “People hate him, but he’s so good.”

An absolute baller in the clutch. Not an emotional statement, but a factual statement; just take a look at the numbers.

Haliburton Is The Master Of Fast Breaks And Setting Pace

The Indiana Pacers averaged over 103 possessions per game this season, which saw them lead the league in pace. Haliburton led the charge, as his speed and understanding the tempo of the game allowed for his opponents to always be a step behind.

This didn’t just give them a few points here and there, it inflated them to new heights. They averaged 17.3 fast break points per game, which put them top-five in the league.

Combine that with them leading the league in pace, it made them one of the most deadliest teams in the NBA to try to guard – and it was all funneled by one Tyrese Haliburton.

His basketball IQ and understanding certain mechanics of the game allowed him to unlock a greater side of Indiana basketball, which head coach Rick Carlisle fueled immensely.

Beyond All That, His Playmaking Is Unmatched

People don’t realize how incredible this is, but the man averaged 9.2 assists per game with an outstanding 5.61 assist-to-turnover ratio, making him only the second player in NBA history to average at least nine assists per game with a turnover ratio above 5.5. The only other player to achieve this was Muggsy Bogues in the 1989–90 season.

Following the All-Star Break, Haliburton was averaging 11.9 assists per game and committing only one turnover per game. How could someone do something this great and be overrated?

This level of playmaking efficiency is almost unreachable, it brings him to a new level of superstar potential and downright greatness. Not hyping him up, simply just letting the numbers do all the talking.

Beyond this season, if we take a look back in 2023, fans thought he was the next up-and-coming Steve Nash, Jason Kidd hybrid. Why? Well, back in late December Haliburton was an absolute Point God tearing through the league and posting consecutive 20/20 games.

On December 28th, 2023, Haliburton dropped 20 points and 20 assists against the Chicago Bulls. Did he have high turnovers? Nope. In fact, he didn’t record a single turnover. But, wait, it gets even more impressive.

On December 31st, the man dropped 22 points and 23 assists against the New York Knicks. He joined John Stockton and Magic Johnson in being the third player ever with back-to-back games of 20 points and 20 assists.

To take it another step further, Haliburton combined for 43 assists and only two turnovers. That’s four less turnovers than Stockton, and six less turnovers than Magic. He had three more assists than Magic, and two more assists than Stockton.

What he’s been as of late isn’t a fluke, he’s been doing high-level playmaking since 2023. Performances like these are why he’s one of the most underrated players in the league, put them together with present-day games. Don’t ever call him the most overrated player again.

On Top Of Playmaking, Haliburton Can Score

This isn’t a wild concept, but Haliburton is most certainly a guard who can score and score at will.

Fun fact, he leads the NBA in clutch three-point shooting percentage at 40.7%. Would someone who is overrated be able to do this?

Haliburton in this season shot only 47% from the field, 38.8% from deep, and has a true shooting percentage of 61.6%. To say he is just efficient would be an understatement.

To have an elite, almost rare, efficiency level like his would make him one of the best in the league. However, he gets diminished for some ridiculous reason.

In addition to all this, when he is on the court this season, he was a +222. The season prior to this one, he was around +294. Not bad for an “overrated” player, if I do say so myself.

Postseason Success Can’t Be Undermined

Postseason success is a big make-or-break deal for a lot of players, especially if they are trying to become the “next big thing” in the NBA or that ultimate superstar in general or for their respected franchise.

For Haliburton, he is building an incredible resume, which is only getting started. This is back-to-back postseasons of his team reaching the Eastern Conference Finals, an incredible feat for a young and hungry organization.

They ran through the likes of the Bucks, New York Knicks, and tried taking on the eventual champs, the Boston Celtics. Many thought they couldn’t handle bigger teams due to their ups and downs against Boston, and facing a New York team who was banged up and without Jalen Brunson.

Without taking anything away from them, they competed hard and were the ultimate underdog team last postseason. This postseason, they decided to double down as the underdogs and rip through their competition.

Giannis and Mitchell were no match for Haliburton, as his team heads to the conference finals once more. From being the underdog to now being the top dog; something Indiana hadn’t had since the Reggie Miller days.

Many called his postseason performance last year a fluke and that he got lucky, Haliburton proved them all wrong Tuesday night to send one of the best teams in the league packing. There are no more excuses, the Pacers are a legit team that could be Finals bound here very soon.

Conclusion: Tyrese Haliburton Is More Underrated Than Overrated

If you’ve gone through this entire article and still agree with all the media analysts, players, and fans who are against Haliburton, then that is your prerogative and I understand that.

However, if I removed the name and face from this individual’s career and accomplishments for his team. Then many would overwhelming take this individual and crown him the second-coming for this fresh, young, hungry, ready-to-strike organization.

Haliburton is everything an organization would want in a player. He isn’t cocky, flashy, annoying, or loud with his words or actions. In fact, he is the complete opposite on and off the court. He lets his game do all the talking, has amazing perspective, and is incredibly humble.

His play is legit game-changing to the point where some teams have no answer on how to stop it. Haliburton knows the game better than some within the NBA, as his playmaking and overall decision making is spot on.

His shot creation and overall tendencies with the basketball is almost like poetry in motion. Something I continuously marvel at. Haliburton continues to prove that what he does and how he does it is not luck, is not some hopeful prayer to the universe; it is in fact hard work and being that guy.

The players who voted him as the most overrated player in the league are jealous of him, why? Because they aren’t him and will never be him.

For him to be this proven, so far, and to still be doubted and treated like he’s this small-time player continues to prove my point of him being underrated. If you’re legit and nobody respects or takes you serious, then how can you be overrated and not underrated?

Remember, Haliburton is no fraud. The stats, team-centered accomplishments, and individual accomplishments all speak for themselves. There’s a reason why he’s going back-to-back Eastern Conference Finals at another shot for the championship.

Like this team, he is special. Tyrese Haliburton is only going up from here, you all can quote me on that.

CourtSideHeat has released their top 15 players who should be watched closely as we approach closer to the NBA Trade Deadline. To jog memory, the deadline is February 6th.

While the exact destinations aren’t revealed yet, as some are still narrowing down, I will break down each player and where they’ll most likely end up. Plus, cover the basics of why they are getting traded, contracts, etc.

#1 – Jimmy Butler

Jimmy Butler being on the move should be no shock due to his antics, multiple team-imposed suspensions, and tripling down on wanting to get out of Miami.

The odds of him being traded increased significantly after reports said Pat Riley lowered the price tag for the aging talent. This indication came after teams like the Golden State Warriors didn’t want to unload their entire team for a 35-year-old who will hit free agency next offseason.

We suspect he will be traded sooner rather than later, as Miami has to get some return for Butler. Now, will it be the Warriors or the Phoenix Suns? That remains to be seen; there are many obstacles to getting to either team.

Those two franchises are the only ones willing to give Butler the payday he wants. Could there be another team? Sure, but, like many contending teams, they don’t want to jeopardize their positioning for an aging player who will cost too much.

Whether it’s the teams listed above or another team, teams are still trying to figure out if he’ll be a headache in the locker room, if his contract is too much, and if it’s worth having a 35-year-old on their roster.

With all that said, a team will potentially trade for him, and that’s why he is on this list.

#2 – De’Aaron Fox

A shocking name many didn’t expect to be on the chopping block; however, he is, and the bridges between him and Sacramento may be permanently burnt.

We all know the controversy surrounding him and the Kings, as the front office is ready to move on for a “star-like talent.” Fox has let it be known he wants to join the San Antonio Spurs, which would be a deadly combination of him and Victor Wembanyama, amongst all the other amazing talent.

Despite many teams wanting him, the Kings’ price tag is high, and many teams can’t afford him due to having limited assets. It would have been better to do it in the offseason, but the Kings were impatient.

If a team were willing to pay what Sacramento wants, then best believe De’Aaron Fox will be on the move. Fox isn’t a free agent until 2026-27, so he’ll be making $34 million this season and $37 million the following season.

This season, Fox has been a superstar offensively and defensively. Averaging 25.9 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 6.3 assists per game. Those numbers are why teams want him, as he is seen as a cornerstone piece by many.

A team like the Spurs has all the assets to make that deal happen. This is why fans must watch Fox for the next few days.

#3 – Zach LaVine

It wouldn’t be a trade deadline without hearing the rumors and reports of Zach LaVine potentially going somewhere new. Unlike last year, though, the 29-year-old is balling out, averaging 24.0 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game.

What looked like one of the worst contracts in the NBA for a team to take on now looks like a good contract that can lead a team to the Promise Land. No exaggeration, LaVine has 180’d his entire trade value through incredible, healthy play this season.

He’s making $43 million this season and $45 million the following season. He has a $48 million player option attached for 2026-27. Given his recent momentum swings, positively benefiting him, teams have kept an eye on him.

Two teams to monitor would be the Warriors and Denver Nuggets. They can afford to take on a huge contract, and it would greatly benefit them, who need the depth, experience, and talent.

#4 – Zion Williamson

Williamson may have finally eaten his way out of New Orleans, as the Pelicans may be looking to blow up their team and restart. They are 12-37, injuries have plagued them, and they have been dealing with Zion for way too long.

The Pelicans might have had enough and be ready to send him to another team for the right price. Williamson is in the second year of his five-year, $197 million contract.

Despite all the issues and roadblocks over the past six seasons, his potential and what he has shown on the court are unmatched. He is one heck of a basketball player with the ability to be a freak of nature and put fear into the hearts of his opponents. However, he can’t stay healthy to do that long-term.

Two teams that could make a run for Williamson would be the Heat and Charlotte Hornets. They have the assets, and both teams have been rumored to be interested in the big man. Miami could justify that getting Zion is enough to replace Butler. For Charlotte, he would be a solid addition to Brandon Miller and LaMelo Ball.

Something to keep track of.

#5 – Cam Johnson

Johnson has been a rising 3-and-D wing player since being traded to the Brooklyn Nets, as teams require a solid wing player who can play both sides of the ball pretty well. What makes him appealing is that he is averaging career-highs in points and field goal percentage.

He is having a breakout season at the right time. Nineteen points off 49% from the field is nothing to sneeze at. Plus, his contract is a very attainable, even affordable, one.

The 28-year-old is in the second year of his four-year, $94.5 million contract. He’s set to make $22.5 million this season, $20.5 million the following season, and $22.5 million in 2026-27. For a piece like Johnson, that is considered a steal.

Johnson’s value is at an all-time high, with teams like the Kings and Indiana Pacers heavily pursuing the wing player. CourtSideHeat projects he will most likely be traded at the deadline.

#6 – John Collins

A player who was once seen as negative about the Atlanta Hawks is now seen as positive by many during his time with the Utah Jazz. John Collins is on an expiring contract, averaging 18.0 points, 8.3 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and 1.1 steals per game.

With him being seen as less of a liability offensively and defensively, a number of teams may decide to take on his expiring contract and give him a new one to see if he can fit in with them.

According to Mike Scotto, the Kings had a trade in place to acquire Collins before the Fox news came out, and the concept was put on hold.

This is proof of life for Collins to not only be on a good team but a team that wants to contend for the playoffs.

#7 – Brandon Ingram

Brandon Ingram for Jimmy Butler? Some say it will happen; some say it won’t happen. Either way, Ingram is officially on the trade block and is a name that could be traded by February 6th.

His price tag isn’t as high as his teammate Zion Williamson or another high-caliber player. Plus, he is on an expiring contract and hasn’t played since early December due to an ankle injury.

New Orleans is a team reportedly set to hit the reset button and start from scratch. Even before this season began, the way last postseason ended for the Pelicans had reports about how Ingram’s time with the Pelicans was set to be over.

This would be a more straightforward player to move due to his expiring contract; how? Money ends this season, so it wouldn’t hurt moving forward beyond this season. Team’s salary caps wouldn’t be negatively impacted by taking on a rental unless they decided to give him a new deal.

A team to watch out for would be the Atlanta Hawks. Atlanta just lost Jalen Johnson for the season, and they want to remain competitive for a playoff spot, so they’ve been targeting Ingram. It wouldn’t require much to secure him and it would benefit the player and both teams.

#8 – Jusuf Nurkic

CourtSideHeat projects Jusuf Nurkic to most definitely be traded. Nurkic wasn’t horrific for Phoenix, but his time is certainly up in the Valley. Sadly, head coach Mike Budenholzer has alienated Nurkic and has decided not even to have a relationship with the player.

Add this to his sub-par play and with the Nick Richards trade; it is very likely fans will no longer see the center on their roster post-February 6th.

The biggest question remains of who will take him and whether the Suns have to incentivize teams by attaching a first-round pick. There isn’t a world where he remains on the roster, so why would Mat Ishbia and James Jones want $18 million sitting on their bench? Plus, think about how that would affect the locker room in the long term.

Unfortunately, Phoenix must sacrifice more to remove a giant headache from their locker room.

#9 – Bradley Beal

Despite Bradley Beal having a good run with the Suns, it is looking like he will be moved by the deadline. At least, that’s what certain fans and the team is hoping for. This is regarding acquiring Jimmy Butler.

Now, Beal’s contract is seen as one of the worst because of the number and the no-trade clause. Many teams, like the Bucks, have opted not to trade for him due to his no-trade clause and his big contract. Great player, but it’ll hurt a franchise.

There are many variables that can be used to get rid of Beal. Phoenix has to find the right team that Beal wants to play for and will take Beal, plus get any return that benefits them.

While the 31-year-old is on the chopping block for Phoenix, it looks uncertain whether a team will take him and give Phoenix something good. A handful of teams have already been ruled out by the Suns and Beal, so it only leaves a few left.

#10 – Nikola Vucevic

The Lakers and Warriors have been tied to Nikola Vucevic as they’ve shown interest in the big stretch, especially the Warriors, who would definitely want someone like Vucevic.

With their center having a terrific year, continuing to ball out, and having a career season, the Chicago Bulls should consider selling him for as much as they can get out of him from a team.

Chicago has made it clear they are listing everyone for sale except for rookie Matas Buzelis, which means a team with the right offer can come in and acquire Vucevic.

Golden State has made it known that they want the 34-year-old and are willing to pay whatever price they offer.

This season, Vucevic is going all-out with 19.9 points and 10.4 rebounds. In addition to those stats, shooting almost 40% from deep and 54.7% from the field. This is a player the Warriors will try to snatch before any other team can get him.

#11 – Clint Capela

Clint Capela has been a very underrated center in this league since joining the Atlanta Hawks; many seem to forget the paint monster he is, practically grabbing double-doubles each game.

With the 30-year-old on an expiring contract worth $22.2 million, Atlanta may try to sell off his contract to the highest bidder. One team to take notice of would be the Toronto Raptors. Reports have speculated a center swap of Jakob Poeltl going to Atlanta and Capela going to Toronto.

Beyond the Raptors, other teams need a starting center who is gritty-gutty, can secure rebounds, and bring intensity. The number one team in mind is the Lakers, who desperately need an upgrade at the center position.

Anthony Davis has been very vocal about Rob Pelinka getting a deal done that sees them getting a new center so Davis can play power forward again. A position he is more comfortable in.

The asking price for Capela isn’t high at all, which plays in the favor of Los Angeles. With that said, keep an eye out for a trade notification between these two teams involving Capela.

#12 – Kyle Kuzma

This doesn’t need much explanation as to why he is on the trade block and a player pasted onto CourtSideHeat’s list. Kyle Kuzma is the same player who has vocalized about not wanting to “fit in” with the current Washington Wizards. 

There have been rumblings in the past of moving Kuzma; now, there are loud roars of moving Kuzma to a team that hits their price range. 

The 29-year-old is having an awful year with horrible shooting splits across the board, as he is only hurting the team, not helping them. Beyond that, the development of the younger, newer talent suffers because of it. 

Team’s selling point of taking on Kuzma would try to reinvent his career and mix and match him with players to see where he best fits, as his contract is manageable. Washington took on the hard years. 

Beyond this season, Kuzma will be making $21 million and then $19 million before hitting free agency. 

As the days go along, fans will hear his name in more and more reports. 

#13 – Jonas Valanciunas 

Making roughly around $10 million a season, Jonas Valanciunas has a straightforward contract for a team to take and try to make him into a starting center again. That shouldn’t be hard, considering this is the first time in a season he’s been relegated to the bench in his career. 

Teams like the Lakers and others have been interested in the veteran big man who can still bring energy, motivation, discipline, experience, and production to a franchise. 

While 11/8 isn’t as impressive to look at, if you take a look at his per 36 minutes, then you’ll be more impressed. He’s averaging 21.2 points, 14.9 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per 36 minutes. Give him minutes and a good role, and he’ll be a beast for whichever team acquires him. 

#14 – Bruce Brown

Bruce Brown is an interesting name to see if he gets dealt or not, as Toronto’s use for him has dwindled due to injury, lack of production, and how massive his contract is. 

How much value will the Raptors get in return for the 28-year-old wing? Not a lot. He’s on an expiring $23 million contract and is expected to become a free agent. Teams won’t give up much for a guy they can sign in free agency at a cheaper contract, saving their assets. 

Despite that, the Raptors will still try to trade him to get any salvageable return for the championship-minded wing. This is very much a problematic contract to try to trade, as he may become a candidate for the buyout market if any trade doesn’t materialize. 

#15 – Lonzo Ball

The Bulls have everyone except for Matas Buzelis on the trade block. This includes fan-favorite Lonzo Ball. He would be a harder sell given his injury history, but there is still value in his playmaking abilities and three-point shot. 

Teams like the Hornets and Lakers have shown genuine interest in Ball, as he and LaMelo have been talked about becoming a duo. The Lakers reuniting with him as a backup point guard has been a growing possibility. 

Now, would the Lakers rather have him or a legitimate center? We all know the answer, but we can’t rule them out because we don’t know if they are only making one move, two moves, getting a center, not getting a center, or trading for a player like Lonzo. They could try to get a center in the buyout market, as it’s a real possibility. 

Charlotte has the assets, but won’t likely attach a pick of any significance. It wouldn’t make sense for them or any team to do that. But, they could attach players like Josh Green, Cody Martin, or even Vasilie Micić to get the deal done. 

The asking price isn’t high to start with; it is convincing a team to take on his salary, being okay with him being severely injury-prone, and giving up players to make it work. 

Nonetheless, Ball is a real option in the trade world before the deadline. 

Conclusion: 

This is the end of the list, as not all of these players will be traded, but they are most certainly players to keep an eye on in the chance they get acquired by another team. 

CourtSideHeat will continue to update all these situations on our social media accounts and website. Stay tuned for more updates.