The Brooklyn Nets, Oklahoma City Thunder and Charlotte Hornets are in talks about a 3-team trade that would involve Lance Stephenson and Brook Lopez, according to a report.
ESPN’s Chris Broussard says the three teams are discussing a trade that would send Stephenson to his hometown team the Nets, Lopez to OKC, and Jarrett Jack (from Brooklyn) and Jeremy Lamb (from OKC) to Charlotte.
Stephenson has not worked out in Charlotte as the team had hoped when they signed him to a 3-year, $27 million deal over the summer. Even as early as November there were reports about Stephenson being a problem for the Hornets. The Nets are said to be looking into whether or not he could be a fit for them.
Lopez, 26, is making $15.7 million this season and has a player option next year for $16.7 million. He is talented but has dealt with various injuries the past four seasons. Though the Thunder would improve with him on the team, the question is whether their money could be better spent elsewhere.
Jack, 31, has two years and $12.6 million remaining on his contract. Lamb has a $3 million club option on his contract next season.
Even if Lopez does not end up in Oklahoma City, it seems like he will be traded. The Nets have three max players on their roster in Lopez, Joe Johnson and Deron Williams, and they are looking to trade two of the three.
