'Half the league' wants to trade for this two-time All-Star
Jrue Holiday has emerged as the hottest commodity in the NBA. The veteran guard is expected to be traded by the Portland Trail Blazers in the near future. Holiday was part of the three-team deal that sent Damian Lillard to the Milwaukee Bucks.
According to ESPN's Ramona Shelburne, four or five teams will likely have legitimate interest in Holiday. Shelburne also noted how those teams are the ones who would potentially look to extend Holiday's current contract.
"It is essentially free agency in late September right now. Because half the league wants Jrue Holiday," Shelburne said. "I think the list is probably going to go down to about four or five teams when all is said and done, in terms of teams that are interested in him, have the assets to acquire him, but also that he would re-sign with long-term...You want to make sure that you're not gonna give up all of these assets and him not be willing to re-sign."
Holiday, 33, is known for his elite-level defense and three-level scoring ability. The veteran guard could be a potential swing factor for contending teams. However, the Trail Blazers won't give up their new asset cheaply. Holiday has allowed Joe Cronin to double-dip following the Lillard trade, and he will look to maximize his returns.
The Bucks are seen as championship favorites. Yet, depending on where Holiday ends up, those betting lines could change. Teams such as the L.A. Clippers, Golden State Warriors and Boston Celtics have all been linked with a potential trade for the veteran guard. Yet, given the Trail Blazers' expected high asking price, Holiday's next destination is still unknown.
Wherever he ends up, Holiday projects have a significant role. The veteran guard has impressed during his tenure with the Bucks and is seen as a winning player with a championship mentality. Still, Holiday's current contract situation — where he can become an unrestricted free agent at the end of the season — is likely a sticking point for multiple teams.
With the new NBA season right around the corner, a potential Holiday trade will likely happen sooner rather than later.
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