NBA Trade Rumors: Lakers, Cam Johnson, Patrick Williams, Suns, Pelicans, Mavs

As the February 6 NBA trade deadline looms, the Los Angeles Lakers are expected to make only minor tweaks to their roster rather than chasing a high-profile move.

According to The Athletic’s Jovan Buha, the Lakers are focused on finding marginal improvements, with players like Gabe Vincent and second-round picks available for trade.

While fans may be hoping for a bigger splash, such as a deal for a star player, the team remains cautious about giving up its precious first-round picks unless a game-changing opportunity arises.

Additionally, the Lakers are still seeking a traditional center to pair with Anthony Davis, though they’ve already made one notable acquisition this season in Dorian Finney-Smith.

Johnson Drawing Significant Interest

Brooklyn Nets forward Cam Johnson continues to be one of the most highly sought-after trade targets.

Reports indicate that several teams, including the Sacramento Kings, Indiana Pacers, and Cleveland Cavaliers, are in talks with the Nets about acquiring the 6-foot-8 wing.

Johnson has impressed with his scoring ability, averaging 19.5 points per game and shooting 42.6% from three.

Despite growing interest, Brooklyn has maintained a firm stance, refusing to lower its asking price of two first-round picks. Johnson’s combination of scoring, shooting, and defense makes him one of the most attractive options on the trade market.

Bulls Ready to Move on from Williams

The Chicago Bulls, who took a risk by signing Patrick Williams to a $90 million contract just last summer, are now reportedly open to trading the 6-7 forward.

Williams has failed to take a significant leap in his development, averaging just 9.4 points and 3.9 rebounds per game while shooting 36.7% from three.

With four years and $72 million left on his deal after this season, it remains to be seen if the Bulls can find a fair offer for the underperforming forward.

Bucks Eyeing Beal Over Butler

Despite early reports linking the Milwaukee Bucks to Jimmy Butler, they are reportedly more interested in a trade for Bradley Beal, according to Marc Stein of The Stein Line.

However, trade complications loom due to both teams being over the second tax apron, which limits their flexibility.

Milwaukee would likely need to shed salary, potentially moving Pat Connaughton’s $9.4 million contract, before even considering a deal for Beal.

The Bucks are not actively pursuing a Butler trade, but their interest in Beal remains a topic of conversation.

Suns Yet to Approach Beal About Trade

As NBA trade rumors swirl around Beal, the Phoenix Suns have yet to discuss the possibility of a trade with the 31-year-old guard, who holds a no-trade clause.

Beal’s future with the Suns hinges on whether he’s willing to waive that clause, and while he may be open to a move, it would depend on the destination.

Teams interested in acquiring Beal would likely want him to drop the clause to allow for greater flexibility in any future trades.

Pelicans Rejecting Offers for Jones; Green Drawing Interest

The New Orleans Pelicans are firmly rejecting trade offers for 3-and-D wing Herbert Jones, despite growing interest from teams such as the Dallas Mavericks.

But Javonte Green, another wing on the Pelicans’ roster, is drawing more interest. Green, who has been thrust into a larger role due to injuries, is averaging six points per game and shooting 38.5% from three.

While not a game-changer, Green could be a useful depth piece for playoff-bound teams.

Mavs Looking to Shed Salary, Gafford Available

The Dallas Mavericks are exploring trades to address their need for perimeter defense, with center Daniel Gafford reportedly available.

Gafford has been productive in Dallas, averaging 12.1 points on 71% shooting and 6.2 rebounds per game, but the emergence of Dereck Lively II as the future starting center has pushed him into a reserve role.

With Gafford on a reasonable $13.4 million contract this season and $14.4 million next year, the Mavericks are open to listening to offers but may struggle to get the perimeter defender they seek in exchange.

Expect More Salary Dumps and Small Moves

With less than two weeks until the trade deadline, the NBA is primed for salary dumps and minor trades rather than blockbuster deals.

Teams such as the Bucks, Suns, and Mavericks are looking to shed salary or make small improvements, with some players, including Gafford, Kuzma, and Green, available on the market.

While the NBA trade deadline often sparks grand speculation, it’s the more pragmatic moves that could ultimately have the most impact as teams gear up for the stretch run of the season.