The dust has settled on the NBA trading deadline, and some NBA teams have set their sights on the buyout market, such as the Los Angeles Lakers. The US media "The Sporting News" predicted that 5 players will become the most sought after names in the buyout market.
Golan Dragic
Since falling out of the rotation with the Raptors, Dragic has been considered the biggest player in a potential buyout. He was traded to The San Spurs and is now likely to be bought out by the Spurs, meaning he will cause a re-scramble for the league's strong teams. The Bucks, Bulls, Lone Rangers and Clippers could all be his destinations.
Teams that need to be able to organize, shoot three-pointers, and provide defensive contributions can take a closer look at Dragic. He can also provide a wealth of leadership and experience to the team.
Thaddeus Young
As part of a deal to send Dragic to spurs, Young was sent to Toronto. The big man's experience at the Spurs has not been pleasant and has not been reused this season, appearing in only 26 games (only one start), mostly in Pelter's absence.
Young will be a free agent this summer, but in the meantime, teams looking for an older future to step up their interior depth will be watching the 33-year-old.
Schroeder
Schroeder may still blame himself for not getting a $84 million contract from the Lakers last season. Still, Schroeder has been traded to the Houston Rockets, what about the Germans now?
He may get some playing time at Houston, but he doesn't seem to fit in their direction to develop a young core — which is why John Wall decided not to play.
He only has a one-year, $5.9 million contract, so the Rockets could buy him out. For playoff contenders, Schroeder can add scoring to the team's second lineup, and he's a good choice.
John Wall
Admittedly, this may be an unattainable goal, but it's worth mentioning that the Rockets can't keep him out forever, can they? Can they?
Wall's contract makes it difficult for Houston to trade him — he's made $44 million a year this season and has $47 million in player selection next season, and he could be a name to watch.
Last season, Wall made 40 appearances and averaged 20.6 points, 3.2 rebounds and 6.9 assists per game.
The Lakers allegedly turned down Westbrook's deal with Wall before the deadline, but they would love to pick him up in the buyout market.
Kent Bazemore
Remember Kent Bazemore?
The veteran has only played 31 games this season, averaging 14 minutes per game, but if the Lakers really want to pursue someone in the buyout market, they will need to cut a player to make room on the roster. Bazemore is one of the candidates.
Teams looking for a stable 3D substitute player may be interested in Bazemore. Even at 32, he was a 36 percent professional three-point shooter and a useful outside defender.