The 2017-18 NBA season is finally underway — but a wild offseason could give way to a wild regular season as teams start to figure out they aren’t as good as they expected.
As the season progresses, more and more teams will decide to pack things in and try and bank on a Sixers-like haul in upcoming drafts. Which means the following five NBA stars could be on the move before the February deadline.
1. DeMarcus Cousins, 2. Anthony Davis Pelicans
Just because he was sent to New Orleans at last year’s All-Star break doesn’t mean Boogie’s future is there. If the team can’t figure out a way to turn into a reasonable playoff contender with their two stud, young centers in Cousins and Davis, the team could make an epic tank and trade both away, presumably for some really good future draft picks, and pull their own “Process.”
Potential landing spots: Cavaliers, Wizards, Celtics
3. DeAndre Jordan, Clippers
The Clippers don’t really know who they are yet without Chris Paul, and perhaps a dup of Jordan and Blake Griffin will be a successful one. But if chemistry or injury-woes become a factor, they may try and sell high before Jordan is due a likely max-contract.
Potential landing spots: Wizards
4. Marc Gasol, Grizzlies
Gasol’s name was floating around during the offseason and with Gordan Hayward out for a while, the Danny Ainge might be itching to make some kind of move. Details would be tough to figure out but after the salary cap issues are figured out there are no shortage of assets on Boston’s side.
Potential landing spots: Celtics
5. Jahlil Okafor, Sixers
Okafor is a lower-tier potential move at center for a few teams looking for scoring off the bench. The former third overall pick is the odd man out in Philly still, and a healthy Joel Embiid could make his price pretty low on the market.
Potential landing spots: Celtics, Pacers
