The NBA trade deadline is approaching, but that’s not the only way contenders can pick up new players. Multiple players will reach buyout agreements with their current teams, then try to join a contender.
Danny Grange and Caron Butler were among the buyouts last season.
A number of teams could really use a boost heading into the final stretch of games and playoffs. The Clippers’ bench is horrible. The Blazers could use a swingman. The Mavericks need at least one backup big man. The Wizards need a scoring boost. The Cavaliers still want a backup point guard. The Heat need a lot of things. And so on.
Check out the top potential buyout targets below.
Amare Stoudemire
Stoudemire is the latest name to be linked to a potential buyout, since the Knicks have been struggling so much.
Stoudemire, 32, told Yahoo recently that he’s pondering his future. “It’s not an easy decision to make,” Stoudemire said. “Over time, we will see how things pan out. You give yourself a break during the All-Star break. You think about it with your family. ... That will give me a good solid week on how to weigh out the rest of the season.”
The 13-year-veteran said that he'll discuss the possibility with Knicks president Phil Jackson and general manager Steve Mills soon.
The 6'10” power forward/center has been dealing with injuries this season, but still presents an upgrade for a number of teams. In the 34 games he has played this season, he’s looked relatively fresh and spry, and has scored in double figures multiple times.
Teams looking for an offensive-minded big man off the bench will want to acquire Stoudemire. His defense, though, isn’t so great.
Teams that could use him: Mavericks, Warriors, Blazers, Clippers, Pelicans
Reported frontrunner: Mavericks
