Los Angeles Lakers: 5 Trade Candidates For The NBA Trade Deadline

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Jan 24, 2015; Milwaukee, WI, USA; Milwaukee Bucks center

Zaza Pachulia

(27) and Detroit Pistons forward Greg Monroe (10) battle for a rebound in the second quarter at BMO Harris Bradley Center. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports

3. Greg Monroe

Roughly eight months ago, many would have assumed that Monroe would not only not re-sign with the Pistons this summer, but that he’d be traded by mid-season. However, following the team waiving Josh Smith, the Pistons have been flying high.

However, Monroe could still be on the out this summer after the two sides had such difficulty agreeing to a contract last summer. Monroe has responded with a better statistical season this year, averaging the same amount of points, more rebounds, almost the same amount of assists (0.1 less this year) all in less minutes per game.

To get Monroe, though, the Lakers would have to give up a large amount. At the very least, they’d need to give up Houston’s first round pick plus Jordan Hill. They may include either Nash’s expiring deal or Lin, who could help replace the lost production from losing Brandon Jennings to injury.