The NBA trade deadline hype was well justified this season. We saw superstars like Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving find new homes, with multiple players rejoining teams they played for in the past.
The Western Conference is wide open, and there’s no shortage of talent in the Eastern Conference, either. So, we’re likely going to see some playoff matchups for the ages this season.
Even so, contenders might be far from done making moves. So, with the NBA trade deadline already in the history books, let’s take a look at the three best potential buyout candidates right now.
NBA Rumors: 3 Best Buyout Candidates
3. Derrick Rose
Derrick Rose – Getty Images
Derrick Rose has no place in the New York Knicks right now. They have Jalen Brunson playing heavy minutes, and the former MVP could be better used somewhere else right now, as much as he loves Tom Thibodeau and vice versa.
Rose could provide an offensive spark off the bench for a contender. He’s no longer the athletic freak he used to be, but he’s still a walking bucket and a guy who can set the table for the rest of the offense.
2. Will Barton
Will Barton – Getty Images
Will Barton might as well be one of the most underrated role players in the Association. He can score from all three levelsand is a streaky scorer who doesn’t need to have a green light to take some big shots.
More than that, Barton’s length and lateral quickness allow him to play and defend multiple positions. He can play on and off the ball, and he’s not a part of the Washington Wizards’ plans right now.
1. Russell Westbrook
Russell Westbrook – Getty Images
The Utah Jazz are reportedly considering keeping Russell Westbrook if he’s up for it. If not, then he’d undoubtedly become the top buyout candidate this season, even after his failed tenure with the Los Angeles Lakers.
While he may not be willing to agree to come off the bench again, Westbrook was playing like a legit Sixth Man of the Year candidate. He’s a first-ballot Hall of Famer and could most definitely help a contender.
