The NBA trade deadline is a week away. While only a few deals have been completed, several teams still appear to be plotting moves and determining which players to pursue.
According to an NBA insider, 14 teams are rumored to be interested in a $5,105,710 defensive stopper.
14 NBA Teams are Interested in Defensive Guard
This season’s buildup to the NBA trade deadline has been relatively quiet. While the league has seen players such as Trae Young traded to the Washington Wizards, another deal involving a player of that caliber has yet to materialize.
As the trade rumor mill continues, many teams are heavily scouting Giannis Antetokounmpo. Another notable name previously linked in speculation is Ja Morant.
However, NBA teams are reportedly more interested in acquiring a role player from the Sacramento Kings. According to NBA insider Marc Stein, 14 teams have expressed interest in Keon Ellis, who is in the final year of a three-year, $5,105,710 contract.
“An estimated 14 teams have registered varying degrees of trade interest in Sacramento’s Keon Ellis,” Stein reported.
Ellis is a shooting guard known for his defensive instincts. Despite limited minutes, he has consistently generated stops for the Kings over the past two seasons. This year, he is averaging 1.1 steals per game. Last season, he averaged a career-high 1.5 steals per game.
Because of his active hands and defensive effort, many teams are seeking to add a player who consistently hustles for loose balls. Among the 14 teams, the Los Angeles Lakers, New York Knicks, Boston Celtics, Minnesota Timberwolves, and Indiana Pacers are considered notable suitors.
This interest is particularly relevant for the Lakers. Throughout the season, Los Angeles has proven to be a volatile team, largely due to its lack of defensive presence. While there is no questioning the Lakers’ offensive ability, their defensive shortcomings have frequently contributed to their losses.
Beyond his defensive ability, Ellis has also proven to be a reliable shooter, hitting 41.4% from 3-point range in his career.
However, acquiring Ellis may be easier said than done. Reports suggest the Kings may only be willing to move Ellis as part of larger, more expensive trade packages that include stars such as DeMar DeRozan and Zach LaVine.
The NBA trade deadline is on Feb. 5. Outside of Ellis, several defensive players have generated interest in the market, including Herb Jones of the New Orleans Pelicans, Derrick Jones Jr. of the Los Angeles Clippers, and Ayo Dosunmu of the Chicago Bulls.
