The NBA trading season will conclude on Feb. 20, prompting teams to work double time to be able to seal the deal that would work for the benefit of the players and the entire team.
One of the most talked about trade rumors before the deadline approaches is between the Brooklyn Nets' center Brook Lopez and Charlotte Hornets' guard Lance Stephenson. The rumor was first heard earlier this month, but the buzz died down several hours after it reached the grapevine.
However, a recent report from Yahoo! Sports correspondent Adrian Wojnarowski mentioned that the teams have returned to the table to discuss the possible trade once again. According to the report, both teams are negotiating a larger package that may include Stephenson and another Hornets guard Gerald Henderson as well as forward Marvin Williams in exchange for Joe Johnson.
The Nets owes Johnson a whopping $24.9 million for his final season, yet the reported trade will not offer any salary cap relief for the team. Meanwhile the Hornets owes Williams $7 million next year, Henderson can collect $6 million during the last year under his contract, and Stephenson will reportedly get paid $9 million in the coming season.
Although Johnson is currently suffering from tendinitis, the report mentioned that Charlotte Hornets' team owner Michael Jordan is "intrigued" with what he can offer to the team, thus seriously considering getting him.
On a good season without injuries, Johnson has an average of 20 points per game between 2005 up to 2009.
In another news, Neil Olshey, the general manager of Portland Trail Blazers agreed to a very rare interview with Sirius XM radio last Thursday to discuss the trading status of the team. Olshey said that the team is definitely looking for a player who will step up and help improve the standing of the team. He particularly said that the Blazers need a capable shooter who can pass the ball when needed and knows how to defend well.
The announcement about who the Blazers can obtain during this year's NBA trade season is expected any day from now.
