NBA Trade Deadline Preview: 24 trade candidates and possible deals

NBA LeBron James Anthony Davis (Photo by Jayne Kamin-Oncea/Getty Images)
NBA LeBron James Anthony Davis (Photo by Jayne Kamin-Oncea/Getty Images)
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NBA Chicago Bulls Robin Lopez (Photo by Tim Bradbury/Getty Images)

Robin Lopez, Chicago Bulls 

Likeliness to get traded: 3/10    

Robin Lopez was an early trade and/or buyout candidate and was even linked to the Golden State Warriors, but recent events have decreased the likeliness of his being traded. Wendell Carter Jr. went down with a thumb injury requiring surgery and will be on the sidelines for 8-12 weeks.

This, to me, pretty much eliminates the rumors of Lopez being traded because it would leave Chicago with just one healthy center. Unless the team could find an alternative option in a potential deal.

Even before Carter’s injury, I thought a buyout was the more likely option anyways, as he is a little overpaid for what he produces on the court. With that said, Lopez on a minimum contract, after he gets bought out, would be a great move for any playoff team.

Trade Idea: Buyout after the deadline.