SH Blog: Trade Deadline Recap: Redick Dealt to Bucks, Brewer to Thunder, Josh Smith Stays in Atlanta

Josh Smith

Smith, as unique and enigmatic a player that exists in this league has been the subject of many trade rumors leading up to today. He’s averaging 17 points, eight rebounds and four assists in a contract year, which he expects to turn into a max-deal. For this reason his hometown Atlanta Hawks have cooled on the idea of re-signing him this offseason and are working tirelessly to find acceptable value for him before the deadline.

 

This would lead one to believe that the Phoenix Suns (who appeared to have folded on the flop earlier this week) and the Houston Rockets are the most likely candidates. Not so fast.

UPDATE (2:15 pm EST): 

JJ Redick 

UPDATE (2:50 pm EST): 

After a seemingly quiet trade deadline-eve, and Dwight Howard all but off the market, Smith is the first domino that needs to fall before others call or fold. The Milwaukee Bucks, according to ESPN’s Chris Broussard, will not include Monte Ellis in a deal for Josh Smith, but if they do, they will pursue Magic guard JJ Redick. So what is it?

 

Wait a second Milwaukee, you may not be the only team in heavy pursuit of Redick. According to Adrian Wojarnowski, the Spurs, Pacers, Grizzlies, Pistons, Wizards and Bulls have interest and Redick. So who is the frontrunner?

 

The Bulls may have ‘cooled’ on the idea of Redick because in reality, they are trying to stay under the cap and not give up any assets in the process. Bringing in Redick – a free agent at seasons end and will expect anywhere from $7-$10 million per year – does not fit that mold today. According to Wojarnowski, the Bulls will likely be sellers today.

 

With the Grizzlies realizing their limitations, it appears that the Spurs and Bucks will duel it out for Redick.