NBA Trade Rumors: In an attempt to improve the roster, the Denver Nuggets may be trending toward a Bones Hyland move at the deadline.
This is an exciting time in the Association, the All-Star break is around the corner, teams have crossed the halfway point, and the NBA trade deadline is creeping closer. Currently, the rumor mill is working overtime and the Denver Nuggets are caught up in the scuttle.
Per Mike Singer of the Denver Post, the Nuggets are seeking a first-round pick for former first-round pick, guard Bones Hyland. Whether or not they will get one is to be determined. There are always plenty of teams searching for an additional guard leading up to the deadline and then across the buyout market that follows.
Overview of Bones Hyland
Hyland has been effective for the Nuggets this year, appearing in 41 games while averaging 12.3 points per game on 40 percent shooting from the floor, 37 percent accuracy from beyond the arc, and dishing three assists per game.
His numbers are solid, but are they solid enough to command a first-round pick? Probably not, unless it is highly protected, projected to be a late pick, or a team becomes desperate to add a guard.
Potential Trade Partners for the Denver Nuggets
Teams that immediately jump out that could look to add Hyland’s services would be the Los Angeles Lakers who are constantly looking for additional talent. Two other potential landing spots could be the LA Clippers, who are also reportedly looking for guard depth, and the Minnesota Timberwolves, who need to fortify their roster somewhat for a push toward the playoffs.
Those are just teams from the Western Conference; he could draw interest from Eastern Conference teams too.
Overall, many different teams could garner interest to add Hyland’s services, which will quickly become irrelevant if Denver’s asking price is too high. Hyland does not do one thing great, but he does do many things pretty good and he has the potential to help a team fortify its roster ahead of a playoff push.
However, the question must be asked, is Hyland as good as advertised, or is Denver simply looking to shed a little salary and gain an asset in the process?