NBA Rumors: Teams Put Off With Noel's Habits, Heat Could Trade Whiteside

By Neal A. Lasta, CP Contributor Monday, December 19, 2016

The NBA trade deadline is fast approaching, and rumors continue to grow as teams assess their needs and improve their standings before the playoffs. Some players, like Nerlens Noel, have been in the rumor mill since last summer, and that hasn't changed as the situation in Philly hasn't changed as well.

The following are the latest trade rumors for the 2016-17 NBA Season.

1. Nerlens Noel Puts Off Teams With Not-So-Good Habits

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Nerlens Noel has only played in two games this season as he is still suffering from injuries. Nevertheless, at 22 years old, he still has a lot of potential and many teams recognize his talents especially on the defensive end.

Noel has recently been linked to the Los Angeles Lakers and the Boston Celtics. These two teams have had great runs in the past, but both are now in rebuilding mode and a young big man like Noel can definitely help in the long run.

Unfortunately, Noel has had off the court antics that could only hurt his trade value. A Bleacher Report article says that Noel is getting negative reports around the league regarding his behavior.

Adrian Wojnarowski of The Vertical says, "Nerlens Noel in Philly, the research teams have done on him is not good. They don't get good reports back on their intel, how he's carried himself there, of his habits. It's not a great return. So, there are teams willing to do a deal and bring him in, but they don't want to give up much."

2. Hassan Whiteside Situation

The Miami Heat currently has a 9-18 standing, putting them at 13^{th place in the Eastern Conference. It is rumored that the team may have to give up their best player, starting center Hassan Whiteside, to get some valuable pieces on board and hopefully have a better shot at making the playoffs before it's too late.}

Michael Saenz of FanSided says the current Heat roster is incapable of winning in the playoffs if they do make it that far. As such, they need to start over and try to get more talent into the team.

There are benefits, though, to keep Hassan Whiteside. He is averaging a career-high 17.4 points per game this season. He adds a league record 14.7 rebounds and 2.3 blocks per game. Indeed, he is one of the most dominant centers in the league today.

On the other hand, trading Whiteside would lead to acquiring assets, including younger players with potential and different talents.