The Los Angeles Clippers seemed primed to be a playoff contender in the Western Conference even without Chris Paul when they opened the season with four straight wins. However, the Clippers have dropped 11 of their last 15 to fall to 8-11 overall. Injuries to Patrick Beverley, Danilo Gallinari and Milos Teodosic have taken their toll on the franchise to the point where the outlook in Los Angeles has shifted from playoff contention to building for the future. One name that continues to come up in potential trade rumors is center DeAndre Jordan, who could become a free agent this summer. The Clippers could still land a decent return for one of the league’s best big men if they move him in the near future so it will be interesting to see if they get a deal done. Here is a look at the most likely trade destinations for Jordan this season.
Cleveland Cavaliers
Cleveland has won eight in a row following a slow start to the season. Despite their hot streak, the Cavaliers are still a team that is being mentioned in countless trade rumors. Cleveland is expected to load up for one more championship run and with Kyrie Irving gone and Derrick Rose’s status in doubt there is every reason to believe they are looking to make at least one trade. Jordan could be a prime target for the Cavaliers as an elite interior defender that could finish at the rim. Cleveland owns the Brooklyn Nets 2018 first-round pick, which could be a major trade chip in any potential deal. It will be interesting to see if the Cavaliers would be willing to move that pick and other pieces for Jordan and a veteran guard like Wesley Johnson in a trade with Los Angeles.
Toronto Raptors
Another contender from the Eastern Conference that could have a significant interest in Jordan is Toronto. The Raptors have an intriguing core with Kyle Lowry, DeMar DeRozan and Serge Ibaka, but are still one or two pieces away from challenging for a spot in the NBA Finals. The addition of Jordan could be a key piece that helps them move one step closer and they definitely have the pieces to make a trade work. Jonas Valanciunas is one name that could offer plenty of intrigue. Lucas Nogeuira is another big man that the Clippers could be interested in. Factor in top prospects like Pascal Siakim and Jakob Poeltl and it’s clear Toronto could put together an interesting package if they feel that Jordan is worth making a push to acquire. Jordan’s defense and experience could make him a substantial upgrade at the five spot for the Raptors.
Dallas Mavericks
Remember a few years ago when the Mavericks had a deal in place with Jordan that fell through before he eventually re-signed with the Clippers? Dallas could get a second chance at landing Jordan if they are willing to entertain a trade with Los Angeles. The Mavericks are just 4-15 through 19 games so they could decide to shake things up and make a move for Jordan. The addition of Jordan would allow Dallas to move Dirk Nowitzki to power forward where he is a better fit. The Mavericks could entertain moving Nerlens Noel and another piece like Dwight Powell or picks to the Clippers in exchange for Jordan. Considering how close they were to landing Jordan a couple of years ago, it wouldn’t be a surprise if Dallas took another shot at the veteran big man.
Milwaukee Bucks
Another Eastern Conference team in need of some serious defensive help is Milwaukee. The Bucks rank 22nd in defensive rating and could use an athletic shot blocker at the center position to help protect the rim. Jordan would be a significant upgrade that could help mentor Thon Maker in the long run. Milwaukee could offer Los Angeles a group of prospects picked from a group that might include Jabari Parker and John Henson as well as draft picks. The Bucks are no longer as far away from contention as they were a couple of years ago. If they feel they are ready to be a major player in the Eastern Conference, Milwaukee could make a move for Jordan to significantly upgrade its center position.
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