NBA Trade Rumors: Josh Smith Joins the Frenzy

Mar 31, 2014; Auburn Hills, MI, USA; Detroit Pistons forward Josh Smith (6) dribbles the ball during the fourth quarter against the Milwaukee Bucks at The Palace of Auburn Hills. Pistons won 116-111. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports
The draft and free agency are at hand. With them come the furious streams of NBA trade rumors. What are some of the biggest?
Pistons eyeing Derrick Williams and Jason Thompson for Smith
The Josh Smith experiment was a resounding failure for the Detroit Pistons. At least that is what new president Stan Van Gundy thinks. Indeed Smith averaged fewer points, fewer rebounds and fewer assists than he did the previous two seasons in Atlanta. This has led to speculation that the team wants to deal him for help elsewhere and the first team to come up is the Sacramento Kings. Nothing is set in stone but the basic idea is for the Kings to get Smith and pair him with DeMarcus Cousins and Rudy Gay. Meanwhile the Pistons get young power forwards Derrick Williams and Jason Thompson and salary cap space. It’s interesting, but nothing will come clear until after the NBA draft.
Bulls offer Taj Gibson, Tony Snell and picks for Kevin Love
The Chicago Bulls are staying on the offensive in terms of upgrading their roster. They’ve already been heavily involved in recruit free agent Carmelo Anthony but are also seeking options on the trade fronts too. Their biggest target is Minnesota All-Star forward Kevin Love. Keen on adding a second offensive threat to take pressure off Derrick Rose, adding Love would be a coup for Chicago. Rumors suggest they haven’t skimped on their offer to the Timberwolves either. In exchange for Love they promised to send stud defensive big man Taj Gibson, promising youngster Tony Snell and their 16th and 19th picks in the upcoming draft to Minnesota. Experts agree that while it doesn’t help the Timberwolves compete right away, it does set them up very well for the future. As yet they haven’t budged in any direction, but it’s clear if they do intend to move Love that Chicago is one of two likely landing spots.
76ers seek the #1 pick to go get Andrew Wiggins
The NBA draft isn’t immune to the trade fever either. After lucking out big time with the #1 overall pick, the Cleveland Cavaliers suddenly have a dilemma. Their primary target, Kansas center Joel Embiid is now considered an injury risk after off-season surgery on his foot. This following a back ailment that knocked him out of the NCAA tournament. Due to this, Cleveland is entertaining offers for the first pick. One option that is poised to think aggressive are the Philadelphia 76ers. Most agree they have eyes for Embiid’s teammate Andrew Wiggins, considered by many to have the highest ceiling of any player in the draft. They currently sit at #3, which is ideal for Cleveland who doesn’t want to fall too far back. Hints say that veteran guard Thaddeus Young would be included in a deal.