The Phoenix Suns reportedly have center Miles Plumlee on the trade block. Phoenix, who have other attractive players such as guard Goran Dragic and swingman Gerald Green, are expected to be active in the days leading up to the trade deadline.
With the trade deadline around the corner, the latest report involving Phoenix claims the team is trying to move Plumlee.
"The Phoenix Suns are actively shopping big man Miles Plumlee in advance of the Feb. 19 trade deadline, according to league sources," ESPN's Marc Stein wrote Sunday night. "Sources told ESPN.com that the Suns are working in conjunction with Plumlee's agent, Mark Bartelstein, to try to find a new home for the third-year center, who has seen his playing time steadily dwindle as the season has progressed."
Phoenix is seeking at least one future first-round pick for him, according to Stein. Plumlee, 26, was selected No. 26 in the 2012 draft by Indiana and is averaging 4.7 points and 5.4 rebounds per game this season. His minutes have steadily declined since November, going from 23.5 minutes per game that month to just 13.5 this month.
Phoenix's recent acquisition of Brandan Wright from Boston will only further decrease Plumlee's minutes.
It's uncertain if any team sees Plumlee as being worth a first-round pick, but there is at least a market for centers that Phoenix can explore. Teams reportedly seeking a center include the Dallas Mavericks, the Golden State Warriors, the Los Angeles Clippers and the Miami Heat. With the exception of Miami, however, the aforementioned teams are looking for a serviceable backup at the 5-spot.
The Suns are expected to be active on the trade front leading up to the deadline. In addition to Plumlee, Dragic and Green have been mentioned routinely in trade rumors. Dragic can opt out of his contract in the summer and seems somewhat expendable because of Phoenix's crowded backcourt; Green is on an expiring contract and could draw some interest from teams in need of a wing player.
