Top 2024 NBA Buyout Candidates to Watch: Key Players That May Shift Teams
The NBA buyout market is an exciting time for teams and fans alike, as various players who are no longer fitting into their current situations look for new homes to continue their careers. As we approach the 2024 NBA trade deadline, several candidates are emerging as potential buyout options. These players are often seasoned veterans or young talents who can provide immediate impact for competing teams. Here are some key candidates to keep an eye on as the season progresses.
1. John Wall
After his time with the Houston Rockets and brief stints with other teams, John Wall has become a name to watch as a buyout candidate. His experience, playmaking ability, and ability to score make him an attractive option for teams looking to bolster their backcourt depth. If Wall is unable to find significant playing time or if the Clippers decide to pivot towards younger players, a buyout could be on the table. His veteran leadership and playoff experience can be crucial for a contending team looking for a second unit leader.
2. Blake Griffin
Blake Griffin, once one of the NBA’s elite power forwards, has quietly continued his career with the Boston Celtics. If Griffin is unable to secure a consistent role in the Celtics’ rotation, he could consider a buyout. Given his versatility and ability to stretch the floor, many teams would welcome the opportunity to add a player of his caliber. Griffin’s playoff experience and knack for making big plays in critical moments could greatly benefit a team vying for a championship run.
3. Carmelo Anthony
Carmelo Anthony remains a scoring machine even in the later stages of his career. Although he has been a valuable role player and mentor on various teams, the right circumstances could lead him to consider a buyout. If the Lakers or another team feels that they need to move in a different direction or want to influx younger talent, Anthony could find himself on the buyout market. His ability to come off the bench and provide an instant scoring spark could attract attention from multiple playoff-bound teams.
4. Taurean Prince
Taurean Prince has shown his skills as a versatile forward who can shoot from the perimeter and defend multiple positions. If the Minnesota Timberwolves choose to pivot their roster to develop younger players or move towards a different style of play, Prince could become a potential buyout candidate. His combination of youthful energy and defensive capabilities makes him an appealing option for teams in need of depth and balance. Competitors looking to fortify their bench would likely consider adding Prince for a playoff push.
5. Kent Bazemore
Kent Bazemore’s defensive prowess and three-point shooting make him a valuable asset in today’s NBA. Depending on the direction of the Sacramento Kings, Bazemore could be a buyout candidate if the team opts to give more minutes to younger players. He has been effective in previous seasons and possesses the experience necessary for playoff basketball. His ability to defend opposing wings while contributing on the offensive end could catch the eye of contenders looking to solidify their roster as they head into the postseason.