Brook Lopez (Photo : Getty Images)
Brooklyn Nets center Brook Lopez is rumored to be on the trading block amid the team's terrible start into the 2015-2016 NBA regular season.
According to Anthony Riccobono of the International Business Times, Lopez is one of the Nets' three players that could be traded before the deadline.
As noted on the report, Lopez is still considered one of the NBA's best centers. His trade value is certainly high after carrying the Nets into the playoffs last season and averaging solid numbers this year with 19.5 points and 8.4 rebounds in 13 games.
Sports Blog believes Lopez "could offer a lot to a team" and the Nets could acquire great value in return.
In addition, Lopez would certainly boost the chances of team that are in the picture to contend for an NBA championship, but Oklahoma City Thunder seems a good fit for the 27-year-old center.
Earlier this year, the Thunder expressed interest to acquiring Lopez when the Nets are exploring trades for the big man. Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo Sports has reported that OKC was close to acquiring Lopez for ex-Thunder PG Reggie Jackson.
Wojnarowski added that the Thunder has long been intrigued with Lopez, who could play a significant role in making a push for the playoffs. A superstar core of Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook, Serge Ibaka and Lopez would not only excite fans, but would also bring threat to other Western team contenders.
According to Real GM trade checker, a straight swap for OKC's Enes Kanter is possible. Kanter is tradable before Nov. 30 as he just signed an offer sheet that has been matched. But the Thunder must ask for his consent before dealing him to another team.
However, Lopez's history of injury could potentially lower his value as a trade chip, although the 7-foot center appears to be in good shape in the past two years.
It is likely the Nets would pull off a trade before the deadline, with the franchise looking to rebuild for the future. The only question is if Lopez would be among the Nets' trade baits.
