Death. Taxes. And Brook Lopez’s name in trade rumors come February. The latest is New Orleans is looking to pair a skilled center with star big man Anthony Davis, and engaged with the Nets in talks over Lopez, according to The Vertical. While general manager Sean Marks did not return calls or emails, it seems unlikely any deal for Lopez is imminent. The Pelicans have talks ongoing with several teams, including Philadelphia for Jahlil Okafor according to USA Today. They’ve been shopping assets — including next year’s first-round pick — throughout the NBA. It’s been reported by The Post, ESPN and YES broadcaster Ian Eagle they may not view Lopez as off limits, but aren’t actively shopping the center and have put a high price tag on him. Sources have said it would take not one, but two first-round picks to land Lopez. Eagle also reported on a recent NetsDaily podcast the Nets would want a lottery pick this year and a first-rounder next year. Lopez, who turns 29 this season, is averaging 20.3 points and 5.2 rebounds. He’s also added range to his game, hitting 81-of-236 (34.3 percent) from behind the arc after being just 3-of-31 coming into the season. The NBA trade deadline is February 23 at 3 p.m. “Obviously at this time of the year all the GMs are talking,” New Orleans coach Alvin Gentry said Monday night, according to ESPN. “In that situation right there it’s best that you guys ask Dell [Demps, the Pelicans GM]. I don’t want to get misquoted or anything. Like I said, all the GMs are talking back and forth.” - See more at: http://nypost.com/2017/02/06/the-brook-lopez-trade-rumors-are-here/
