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Will teams invest into the package of Bronny and LeBron?
Published
3 years agoon
By
Joshua
Will teams invest into the package of Bronny and LeBron?
Will teams invest into the package of Bronny and LeBron?
Speculation is rising about where Bronny is going to land in the 2024 draft and where his father is going to finish his career at. By the time that year comes, LeBron James will be 40-years-old and his son 20-years-old. Age is not a factor for bronny, but for his father it sure is a huge factor.
While we have seen many of the greats attempt, or achieve, to play at the age of forty; not many could do it at a good level, or at least a level to where they are playable and isn’t a liability. So, before we talk about Bronny and where he is projected to fall in the 2024 NBA Draft, let’s break down LeBron James.
Questions to ask:
- Will he be able to perform at 40 like he has been at 37?
- Will teams want to take a risk of taking Bronny and having to deal with LeBron?
- Would we see a decline in greatness from LeBron James at 40?
- Would it be worth the money, roster room, etc to house a potential player and final-year player?
- What will be the mindset of LeBron James coming into his 21st season?
- What will his play-style look like at age 40?
- Will teams want to take on LeBron and his son for a season together?
Those are some, not all, of the questions that should be asked. Today, I will be reviewing the presence of LeBron James today, what that’ll look like at age 40, the rewards and risks of signing ‘Bron and his son, and different questions and perspectives like those previously listed.
Because let’s face the truth, the truth is unknown. We have no idea how bad, or good, LeBron will be in year 21 or his son. All we have currently is speculation and imagining what he will be like. It will be interesting, but maybe our view points will change after this article. So, let’s just into it now.
Lakers have issues and it circles around LeBron James:
Controversy has been surrounding the Los Angeles Lakers as LeBron said he was going to play with his son… no matter where that takes him. Now should that be an issue? In my opinion, no. The man wants to play with his son and he should be able to say that without the NBA World crumbling, but what was the true reason behind the NBA World reacting the way they did to what LeBron said?
Even though the waters have been cleared up now, the reason why fans were reacting the way they did was due to the fact that LeBron was reportedly displeased with the franchise. The way they have been, the players (Westbrook, etc), the season in general, and the front office. Truly I could have went into more issues that faced this organization featuring LeBron James, but these are plenty for context.
Long-story-short, this is why you should never let two players construct an entire roster. It will lead to problems like this as the players they found caused more issues than anyone else in that organization. This all led to a lot of guessing and wondering where LeBron is going to go and the condition between the two.
Contract situation of LeBron James
His contract is for two-years, $85 million dollars as he won’t be a free agent until 2023. All guaranteed money and he is in the first year of his contract. Why is all of this relevant? It is relevant because with the tensions rising, or declining, it led many to ponder on if he would dare to ask to have his contract bought out and/or give up on this team before the expiration of the contract.
CourtSideHeat’s take on this situation is that he will honor his contract, even with anger and disappointment, and hope to see better days. This is a delicate, tricky, balance that everyone needs to understand as the Lakers have a lot riding on this as well as LeBron.
How so? Well, this plays into the contract. If, or when, his contract ends they must have done something great (like win another title) because if not then it will show that the LakeShow experiment was a disaster. Especially if the NBA Bubble Ring is all LeBron has to show for, because wouldn’t that damage his reputation and his image with LA?
Then for the Lakers, wouldn’t it be a monumental failure of having one of the G.O.A.Ts and not able to capitalize on the opportunity? So looking at all of this, we have to understand that this season and next season is critical to impacting legacies.
Let’s say that LeBron doesn’t want to re-sign with the Lakers… will the Lakers force him into re-signing with the franchise?
The Lakers could force the hand of LeBron James, how? Mainly through drafting his son, Bronny, and saying that they’ll give him a one-year deal to play with his son. So if they leave on bad terms, or decent terms, (hypothetically, of course) then it would leave ‘Bron the tough decision of either playing with his son or deciding against the long-awaited desire of playing with his son.
Now, Bronny could decide to force himself out of L.A. and forcing teams to sign his father if they want him. But will Bronny be in that power of position to dictate what happens and when? Probably not, I’ll get into that in a bit.
That is one cruel method of luring back the multi-time champion, would they do that? Probably not, but it all comes down to how LeBron plays at 39-turning-40.
Now, with the background stuff of LeBron done, let’s look at his current age and season:
The future HoFer is having a great season – a normal season that he causally does year-in and year-out. Currently, ‘Bron is 37-years-old and having a terrific season.
His stats:
- 28.9 points
- 8.0 rebounds
- 6.4 assists
- 1.6 steals
- 1.0 block
- 51.8% from the field
- 35.0% from beyond the arc
- 36.8 minutes
Like I said, stats amazing beyond comprehension. How many 37-year-olds do we see in the league (past time) doing what LeBron James has been doing? Words cannot express how amazing he has been. In midst of all this drama, craziness, players, management, and everything else that I may be leaving that out.
His stats, for this season, back up the Lakers when they need him. Sure he has had bad games, bad game-winning/tying shots that didn’t go in, etc but he is still 21-21 when the team has him available. The team without him are 6-11; may not seem as significant but it is.
They triple their points scored, double their rebounds, triple their assists, and have more PPG with LeBron on the court. That is just a sample-sized list of what LeBron has done for the Lakers, imagine if he was out for the entire year where they would be at? Scary to even try to picture… if you care for the LakeShow at all.
So to say the least LeBron’s age has not hindered his performance once-so-ever and, in fact, he has done very well for himself this season. This was his best season in terms of scoring since 2009 in his last season with the Cavaliers. That was his last season before heading off to Miami to form the Big 3 that had good times.
Age has not been a factor and it is not looking like it for the upcoming seasons… or will it.
Will LeBron James be able to play at such a high-level come the age of 40?
“Will teams invest into the package of Bronny and LeBron?” That is the question that needs to be answered as this revolves around LeBron mainly. This question we are trying to answer is all being tied into this section of the article; because if he can’t play efficiently at age 40, then how will teams look at him overall when he is a free agent?
Forty-years of age is starting to get old… especially in the world of sports. However, some men have done it. Can LeBron do it? He can and will, but will it be done at a level of which he can still produce and generate positive outcomes for his future team? That all depends on this season, when he is 38-years-old and beyond.
I’m not saying that he can’t or can, all that is being said is that factors can change the way he plays come age 40 or if he is able to play at all. Will teams want to invest into him at the age of 40? That’s a tough question as of right now it would be “yes” but come a year or two later it may change.
Now, by the age of 40, if he is able to average 15/5/5 per game then that is solid and will be perfect as a 40-year-old.
It is not so much as playing high-level but being able to play at a positive level to where it generates success on/off the bench and it doesn’t frustrate the team. I would say if he is generating good moments and periods that good a long way then it would a good resource for a team to pick up.
All of this depends on how teams view LeBron James and what they believe they can get out of him, if they draft his son. All very delicate and tricky.
Overall, should a team invest into the stock of LeBron James?
They should and I’ll tell you why. Firstly, if he continues to perform the way he has by carrying a team (or helping in a minor role) then it will work perfectly for that future team. Secondly, him being in a leadership role will work too. Why? Because he can be a player and a coach (in some ways) to help talent, younger players, and even his own son. That would be interesting as a guy who played 19 seasons, in counting, will give an insight or two. Thirdly, opponents will still take him as a serious threat.
Because even if he is only scoring 10/5/4, it is still profitable for the team and still a guy a team has to cover. Personally, I would be scared to cover LeBron James at the age of 40. Every man is a weapon in an area that they are most comfortable with; for LeBron, that is every area that is major or minor.
Those reasons let alone would be good to invest into LeBron, but these reasons are all subject to change. This all comes down to how his body holds up in two years, his mentality, and different things like that. His priorities are going to change as it will go from championship-mode to father/son-mode. Maybe I am correct maybe I am not, however, the priorities he has now will change in 2023-2024 and beyond.
Switching from LeBron to Bronny: who is he and what is his skill set?
The combo guard from Sierra Canyon is starting to take shape of his own identity and who he is exactly as a player. Bronny James is 6-3 and weighs 190, as he could be eligible for the 2023 draft if he graduates early. If not, then 2024 will be his Draft Class Debut.
247Sports gives him a 4/5 rating as he has some strengths and some weaknesses. The strengths would be his play-making skills, it is to be said that he is a fantastic passer. Potentially could be compared to LaMelo Ball and his play-making abilities from anywhere around the court. He is also a great catch-and-shoot player as that is one of his strengths as a shooter.
Being an offensive player is his style of choice, as it seems offense is the way to go for the son of LeBron James. He does give good effort defensively, but we can all tell he is better offensively. Not saying that he can’t play defense, but that he can do wonders offensively.
Bronny James has great vision of the court and has good shot mechanics, it is proving more and more that the 4-star guard could be getting draft in late first-round, early second-round. But the biggest thing for him to strive to achieve is being more physical and continuing to work on his skills as no man is perfect at the age of 19.
When can we see him drafted?
No one knows for sure, but many have estimated it to be in the second-round. Many executives around the league, when a report came out a few days ago, that they believe Bronny James is a second-rounder at best. It also has to be noted, when looking at the past few drafts that not many 4-star players are selected in the first-round. Brought to you by 247sports.
So, in short, he is expected to go in the second-round. But all of this is subject to change as he still has two NBA seasons to mature and get better at his craft.
CourtSideHeat projects Bronny James to go late first-round, early second-round.
Will teams want to take on LeBron and his son for a season together?
Again, all subject to change, but if I had my crystal ball handy then I would say that teams would be interested. The contingency is that Bronny pans out the way people project him to finish out his career before making it to the NBA Draft and how LeBron is before 2024. I could see teams willing to take a chance on LeBron and his son. Teams only have to give ‘Bron a one-year deal to wrap up his time in the NBA and then they can focus on the development of Bronny.
There are risks and rewards everywhere; however, I believe that teams will run the risk to get a combo guard and a future HoFer to see what they do in that season. Also, we must take a note of something. If Bronny takes the advanced route and is eligible for the 2023 season, then that would be great for LeBron. Why? Due to the fact that he will be a year younger and will allow teams to feel more confident in his ability to play the game efficiently.
More teams will be inclined to go all-in if it is 2023, but some will still be apt to go all-in come 2024. To me, it doesn’t matter as risk is going to be risk. Do you want a younger rookie or do you want an older HoFer? That is the type of question many will ask as it is a very valid one to ask.
I think they would but who knows, it just all depends on elevations and the market itself come 2023-2024.
ANSWERED: “Will teams invest into the package of Bronny and LeBron?”
Yes and no. I believe teams will invest if it works out for them and I believe some teams will not force it. Will some teams try their hardest to get a G.O.A.T and rookie that could pan out tremendously? Most likely, but it is all subjective to what happens in these next two seasons – for LeBron and Bronny.
Will the stock of Bronny rise or fall? Will we see teams be eager to get their figurative hands on the value of LeBron at the age of 39 and/or 40? Do teams want to face money issues if they made a bad investment? How will this all plan out? Questions upon questions can be asked and there will be so many different answers; in the end all that matters is that with each season passing by is another year down for LeBron and another up for Bronny.
Age, money, resources, etc all play an extreme part into what teams will decide. If you think we aren’t coming up on this, then you are crazy. People will begin to talk about this subject next season as they have previewed this topic right here, right now this season.
In essence, the value of LeBron James will determine when and where Bronny falls in his draft class. So let’s take this day by day and let’s see where the stock of LeBron goes – same with Bronny – as many will be waiting to hear and see what happens.
Conclusion:
Mixed answers are still good answers… especially when we are dealing with a subjective topic that will change at any given moment. A father and a son will unite in the NBA at any cost. LeBron may even take a pay-cut to ensure he is able to play with his son. Even if it is only for a year, how cool would it be to see a father-son duo? That would be pretty neat to see and pretty intriguing as to how the future team responds to that.
All I know is that teams will know what they are getting themselves into and what the calculated risks/rewards they are going to inherit. Truth be told, I have no idea that in the world is going to happen until his tenure with the Lakers are over.
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Featured
OPINION: Tyrese Haliburton Isn’t Overrated, He’s Underrated
Published
3 weeks agoon
May 14, 2025By
Joshua
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.
Featured
Top 15 Players On Trade Deadline Watch
Published
4 months agoon
February 1, 2025By
Joshua
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.
Featured
Why The Heat Will NEVER Trade Jimmy Butler To The Suns
Published
6 months agoon
December 17, 2024By
Joshua
Will Jimmy Butler be traded by the deadline? Maybe, but it won’t involve the Miami Heat and the Phoenix Suns. For Phoenix, it’ll be one of the greatest deals in recent memory. For Miami, it would put them in an uncomfortable situation in recent memory.
As it stands right now, according to multiple reports, the Suns would offer Bradley Beal and picks, most likely their 2031 first-rounder and some second-rounders.
Again, for Mat Ishbia’s team, this would be a home run—a significant addition to their championship odds. However, if this type of deal went through for Pat Riley’s team, it would cause present and future issues like fans have never seen before.
In today’s article, I will go through the top five reasons why Miami would never accept this deal in a million years.
Reason #1: Another Guard In The Rotation
Bradley Beal’s career has seen him play primarily at the two spot, shooting guard; this season with the Suns is the exception. Right now, he is playing small forward.
I bring this up to say if Miami acquires him, then they will have a guard room of Terry Rozier, Tyler Herro, Duncan Robinson, and Beal. Not only is that very competitive, but where will all the minutes be allocated?
The only way the minutes would work is for Beal to replace Butler as the team’s starting small forward, which could see a three-guard starting lineup.
This would be a true small-ball lineup that will force the front court, Haywood Highsmith and Bam Adebayo, to pick up the slack on defense and rebounding.
Beal is a fine defender. However, it could be proven difficult when a stronger, bigger opponent comes crashing into the paint/perimeter, and he may be unable to stop it. Add this to players like Rozier and Herro not being top-tier defensemen. Challenges will arise.
By adding another guard and turning him into a make-shift small forward, Miami will sacrifice elements of their team to compensate for a three-guard lineup.
Reason #2: Injuries & Availability
Since the 2019-20 season, Beal has only played an average of 52 games per season. At one point, fans saw him only play 40 games in one season (2021-22) and 50 in another (2022-23).
That’s beyond concerning when one of this team’s weaknesses is having players who are healthy and able to play more than 60 games in a season. What should concern Miami fans even more is that Beal will push through injuries to play in games; while admirable, this doesn’t mean his productivity and usefulness will be positive.
Since 2019-20, Butler has played an average of 58.2 games per season. While some can argue that he needs to play more games and has a history of getting hurt, the 35-year-old has been resilient and put the team on his back during their two trips to the NBA Finals.
He holds a different level of impact, one of which Beal does not possess. It’s not a knock on Beal, but Butler is available when his team needs him the most. Whether that be important stretches of the season or postseason.
Reason #3: Beal’s Contract
The 31-year-old is making $50 million this season, $53 million next season, and has a $57 million player option in 2026-27.
That’s a lot of money given to a talented player who is hurt often, especially with age, and doesn’t possess the same Batman-like tendencies as Butler. Plus, on top of it, he has the less-than-charming no-trade clause in his contract.
He got the NTC from the Washington Wizards to keep him there until they decided to move him to Phoenix. James Jones’ team has to deal with his NTC if they want to trade him.
Now, let’s say there is a reality where Riley goes crazy and accepts the deal. They’ll be tied down to his NTC until the end of his contract expires.
Why is this a bad thing? It’s terrible because no team in the future will want to trade for an older, more injury-prone Bradley Beal with an expensive contract with that clause. Plus, it gives Beal the option to say no if the Heat dumps to some lower-tier team.
It puts them in a horrific spot, as they get him and probably will also eat that player option. Why? Because Beal won’t get that large contract again in his career, why wouldn’t he opt into it? He would be out of his mind not to.
This isn’t a favorable world to live in if I’m a part of the Heat’s front office.
Reason #4: What The Suns Can Offer Is Absolute Garbage
I don’t mean to be overly critical or rude, but the Heat only getting Beal in the deal is horrible.
Beal is not a horrible player, not in the slightest. He is a good, solid talent that can contribute to win. Even with all that, he is an aging player who can’t do it on his own, not to the level that Butler was able to do.
Due to Phoenix being a Second Apron team, they can only put in one player. It must be a 1+1 deal; they can’t put another into the deal to match the salary. This is why Beal is the number one player in these “trade talks.”
Giving up elite talent for a good player and a half-decent pick is not wise. A 2031 first-rounder and multiple seconds won’t help the Heat in the present or the future. We are at the end of 2024, heading into 2025, which means that pick can’t be used for six more years.
In addition to the trade, exchanging Butler for Beal is a massive downgrade. One could argue that the only reason this team is competitive is Butler, especially when multiple players are injured, fatigued, or not having their typical game.
Reason #5: Miami Could Easily Fall Into A Poverty-like State
This team has solid pieces yet has never been more than a play-in team. It’s somewhat perplexing, but that’s where this team is at.
Bam Adebayo has not elevated this team, Tyler Herro has not elevated it, and nobody besides Butler has taken it to new heights. I’m not saying that Herro and Adebayo are bad players, but they have that impact and command of the game that Butler does.
A team surrounding Beal, Herro, Adebayo, and Rozier isn’t a recipe for success. While they are individually good, they won’t be collectively good. There is a massive difference. One results in stats looking pretty, and the other is winning basketball, which translates into another Finals run.
To take it another step forward, if they get Beal, and it doesn’t work out in the next season or even two, they’ll blow up the team. Why? Miami will not allow itself to remain mediocre, especially without Butler.
The ramifications of this singular (potential) trade on the Miami Heat are severe. It’s not positive, and it’s highly damaging.
Conclusion:
I love Bradley Beal, but he cannot replace Jimmy Butler. Miami is in such a unique situation that if they lose Jimmy Butler, it will have to be for some good pieces. This is not the time to settle or take losses.
To summarize, Phoenix doesn’t have the assets, or allowed to add more assets, to make a solid trade offer to Miami. Even if the deal went through, the small-ball lineup would cripple them in health, defense, rebounding and force the team to go in a different scheme.
Miami would be tied down to Beal’s contract and jeopardize their future, even past the date of his contract expiration. Lastly, this team will be filled with good players, but not ones assembled to make a past-the-second-round or Finals run.
The answer is very clear as to why the Heat will NOT be trading Butler to the Suns.
The NBA’s trade deadline is February 6th, 2025.

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