The Los Angeles Lakers will be one of several Western Conference teams expected to burn the hotlines in the coming weeks towards February trade deadline. And according to several sources, Jordan Hill and Steve Nash's expiring contract emerge as the most enticing trade targets for several teams for contrasting reasons.
Hill, who has become the second-leading scorer for the Lakers this season (13 points along with 9 rebounds per game, is reportedly drawing interest from multiple teams, particularly contenders, as the 6-foot-10 big man provides depth and energy off the bench.
Meanwhile, Nash's expiring contract worth $9.7 million could entice teams looking to shed burdensome contracts in an attempt to create flexibility for next summer's free-agency period.
"Their two biggest and most realistic trade assets are the aforementioned Hill and the expiring contract of Steve Nash. Any number of teams with playoff and title aspirations (Cavaliers, Clippers, Suns, etc.) could inquire about Hill's services before the deadline if he continues producing at this level," Jabari Davis stated in his latest article on Basketball Insiders. "Any team looking to shed contracts for immediate salary cap flexibility could be interested in obtaining Nash's deal."
According to Davis, the Houston Rockets could inquire for Hill's availability, especially with All-Star center Dwight Howard and power forward Terrence Jones dealing injuries this early in the season.
"One intriguing frontcourt remedy that hasn't been mentioned for these Rockets could be a return of Jordan Hill. Hill is having a career-year for the Los Angeles Lakers (13.7 PPG, 9.8 RPG, 31.3 MPG), and has a deal that expires after next season."
"While not the impact player that Howard is, Hill could be used as a reserve at either power forward or center. He's an active body on the boards, isn't a guy you necessarily have to call or design plays for, and he does appear far more confident in his face-up game and on the offensive end in general recently."
As for Nash, the Lakers would only trade the veteran point guard in exchange for a young prospect. The Brooklyn Nets, Indiana Pacers, and Detroit Pistons could be interested in taking Nash's huge expiring deal.
