HoopsWorld On Deng, Lowry, Gay, Gasol, Draft

Luol Deng's decision to play in this summer's Olympics rather than immediately undergoing wrist surgery has created some tension between the player and his NBA team, and Deng said this weekend that he wouldn't be shocked if the Bulls traded him. Both Alex Kennedy and Steve Kyler of HoopsWorld looked at the possibility of a deal, with Kennedy noting that the Bulls would "love to add a young star" in the draft lottery. Kyler adds that Deng's trade value takes a bit of a hit since he's expected to miss the start of the season, but says the Raptors and Warriors have shown "more than a passing interest."

Here are a few more Monday morning notes from the pair of HoopsWorld scribes on potential trades that could be consummated this week:

• According to Kyler, the Cavs have a standing offer to the Bobcats of their fourth and 24th overall picks for the second overall pick. Kyler explains that it could make sense for Charlotte to make such a deal if the team is targeting Thomas Robinson — Cleveland figures to be moving up to land Bradley Beal, and the Wizards would likely select Michael Kidd-Gilchrist at No. 3, meaning Robinson could still be available at No. 4.
• The Rockets have been gauging interest in Kyle Lowry and have discussed a few potential deals for the point guard, according to Kennedy.
• The Bobcats, Warriors, Raptors, and Nets are among the teams that have inquired on Rudy Gay's availability, but it's unclear if the Grizzlies are looking to move him, says Kennedy.
• More from Kennedy: The "general consensus" across the league is that the Lakers' asking price for Pau Gasol is too high.
• Austin Rivers' and Will Barton's stocks have been on the rise recently, says Kyler. Kyler puts Rivers' ceiling at No. 6 and Barton's at No. 21.
• Sources tell Kyler that the Magic could be looking to trade their first-round pick (No. 19) for a future first-round asset, to avoid the guaranteed salary this year.

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