16 trade options to push the OKC Thunder into title contention

T.J. Warren

T.J. Warren is one of the most improved forwards in the NBA averaging 18.1 points on 50.1 percent shooting and a scorching 43.1 percent from three. He’s also a popular member of the Suns organization thus prying Warren out of Arizona may not be the easiest of tasks.

In the trade below, the Thunder will need the assistance of Dallas to make a deal work.

Dallas receives defensive wing

Josh Jackson is the centerpiece of this deal for Dallas. The defensive-minded wing has failed to build on a sound rookie season and appears to need a change of scenery to fully realize his potential. Dallas is one of the best franchises developing talent and with the clubs shift toward building for the future, Jackson is a nice complimentary piece to surround Doncic with.

Alex Abrines and Patrick Patterson are salary fillers in the deal and offer Dallas more 3-point shooting. Both are excellent system players and stand to excel in Dallas’ ball-moving offense. Dallas receives a second-round pick via Phoenix in the deal.

Phoenix gets a point-guard at last

The Suns finally receive a point guard in Dennis Smith Jr to pair with franchise star Devin Booker. Dallas has been surveying the market for Smith since its elected to hand the keys over to rookie sensation Luka Doncic. Smith is a ball-dominant guard who struggled to play off the ball and appears in need of a fresh start. His skill set is a perfect compliment to Booker and Phoenix can finally move forward building around its young backcourt.

Dwight Powell is a reliable, blue-collar big man who contributes in a number of areas on court. He is an excellent piece behind star big man DeAndre Ayton, is excellent in the pick and roll and brings leadership to a wayward locker room

OKC get its scorer

T.J. Warren has established himself as a professional scorer, living in the mid-range before finally adding a 3-point stroke to his game. While he is a black hole on offense, he provides the Thunder with scoring off the bench and could find himself minutes closing with the starters. He is capable of playing both forward spots and offers OKC offense when it goes cold.

Maxi Kleber is solid big man offering depth up front. The German is solid from the mid-range, can knock down the occasional three, rebounds at a reasonable rate and is a solid shot blocker.