More NBA trade rumors emerge as the season approaches its end. Even playoff-bound teams are not spared.
The LA Clippers spent the entire season in turmoil with both on-court and off-court issues but they still managed to lock up 4th place in the Western Conference. However, their run without Blake Griffin should open up some questions that they may need to address this offseason.
Winning solves everything, but there is a big possibility that this is far as the Clippers would go. If the playoffs started now, they would likely face the ailing Memphis Grizzlies, but a collision course with the Golden State Warriors in the second round could be the end.
Speaking of a team with drama, the Chicago Bulls will probably face a tragic ending for the gallant crew that former coach Tom Thibodeau led. Joakim Noah, Pau Gasol and possibly Taj Gibson could don new uniforms next season, and maybe even their anointed superstar Jimmy Butler.
The Jimmy Butler rumors are all the rage and teams looking for a superstar were all linked to him: Boston Celtics, LA Lakers and the Orlando Magic among others.
According to Basketball Insiders Steve Kyler, history is against the Bulls making a major trade but they might be pushed to take drastic action at this time.
"If the Bulls want real change, making a bold trade might be the answer. However, it's been a long time since they were even open to a major trade, let alone consummating one," Kyler recounts. "Rival teams would love to pry Butler away in trade, there is almost no doubting that. The problem for the Bulls is that Butler might be the only person the franchise can really count on, especially if Noah and Gasol are allowed to walk in free agency."
With that, a report from CSN Chicago contributor Mark Schanowski has the Clippers and Bulls swapping their stars.
"Yes, we've heard the rumors about Jimmy Butler's possible availability in trade this summer, but if the Bulls really are thinking about trading their best player, a deal needs to be centered around a bigger target than Okafor, like Clippers power forward Blake Griffin," Schanowski reasoned. "Like all players, Butler has his faults, but he's still a top-15 or 20 talent in the league and shouldn't be moved unless the Bulls are able to make a home-run deal."
Both teams need to make decisions and perhaps the players also could also benefit from a change in scenery. Butler may have to concede his alpha status again but he will have the benefit of playing with a "pass-first" point guard Chris Paul. Blake Griffin will move to the East and become the main frontline anchor for the Bulls.