NBA insider Michael Scotto provided a detailed assessment of the league’s point guard trade market on YES Network Sunday, December 14.
Scotto identified four key trade candidates: Ja Morant, Trae Young, LaMelo Ball, and Darius Garland, noting that 90% of the league’s point guards are theoretically available under league rules.
Morant of the Memphis Grizzlies has drawn interest from the Minnesota Timberwolves and Sacramento Kings, with the Grizzlies sitting at 11–14 and Morant averaging 18.2 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 7.8 assists over 13 games this season.
Atlanta Hawks’ Young remains a potential trade candidate after missing time with injury, as the team evaluates his fit with rising forward Jalen Johnson and the health of Kristaps Porzingis. Young averages 17.8 points and 7.8 assists in five games this season.
Ball of the Charlotte Hornets faces injury concerns but holds a max-level contract, complicating trade possibilities. Ball averages 19.4 points and 8.5 assists in 16 games, while rookie Kon Knueppel and Brandon Miller provide complementary scoring and playmaking.
Garland of the Cleveland Cavaliers is also a candidate, with executives evaluating the backcourt pairing of Garland and Donovan Mitchell. Garland averages 15.5 points and 6.5 assists across 11 games this season, though past toe injuries factor into trade considerations.
Scotto stressed that teams must weigh injury history, contract size, and roster fit when pursuing point guards ahead of the trade deadline. Garland, Young, Morant, and Ball each present unique opportunities and risks for contending teams.
Scotto concluded that the point guard market is dynamic, with potential deals likely influenced by injuries, team performance, and the strategic direction of franchises.
