Al Jefferson and Joakim Noah (Photo : Getty Images)
The Charlotte Hornets are rumored to be exploring trade deals for big man Al Jefferson.
The Hornets have surprised the NBA and managed a seventh place in the Eastern Conference with a 15-11 record despite the absence of Jefferson.
Big Al has missed the Hornets' last nine games due to a calf injury, and is expected to miss another five games due to suspension after violating the league's anti-drug program.
Jefferson would be eligible to play for the Hornets on Dec. 26 against the Memphis Grizzlies, but it is unlikely coach Steve Clifford would immediately give him heavy minutes and insert him in the team's starting lineup.
Moreover, the Hornets have become effective playing a more athletic and young roster without Jefferson, creating speculations that Charlotte could be looking to dispatch Jefferson.
According to Rick Bonnell of the Charlotte Observer, the Hornets' priority for 2016 would be to re-sign Frenchman Nicolas Batum, who is expected to become expensive with how he is playing this season.
These factors make Jefferson the Hornets' tradable asset, but Bonnell noted it would be challenging for Charlotte to deal Big Al for "something that would fit both short-term and long-term."
"Jefferson makes $13.5 million in this, the final season on his contract," Bonnell added.
"So a team looking to acquire him would likely be searching for a salary dump."
While the Hornets have not officially made Jefferson available, one potential landing spot for him would be with the Chicago Bulls.
The Bulls would be wise to acquire players who have expiring contracts as the team is gearing up the pending free agency of their top big man Pau Gasol next summer.
The Bulls have plenty to offer for the service of Jefferson, and one possible trade piece is Joakim Noah, whom according to Hoops Habit could be traded by Chicago before deadline.
"For one, his contract situation puts him in prime position to be moved," the reported disclosed. "On top of that, there is an argument to be made that perhaps with Noah out of the way, more players such as rookie Bobby Portis, can get a chance to shine."
Noah has been the talk of trade rumors this season due to his expiring contract and his decreased role with under Fred Hoiberg, leading to speculations that the long-haired big man is unhappy with the Bulls.
According to ESPN's trade machine, a straight swap of Noah for Jefferson would work for both parties.
The Bulls would receive another offensive big man in Jefferson who could help Gasol shoulder inside scoring, while Noah gives the Hornets a reliable defensive big man who fits well in Clifford's balanced offense.
The Bulls, like the Hornets, have yet to officially put Noah on the trading block, but there is still a possibility both teams are looking to shop their tradable players to make a push in a surprisingly tough Eastern Conference.
