Guard Carousel Brewing: Morant Young Ball Garland Harden

Multiple star point guards are drawing serious trade chatter as the deadline approaches. Jake Fischer reports Ja Morant, Trae Young, LaMelo Ball, Darius Garland and James Harden "all are being monitored in various front offices." Morant has been the flashpoint after a suspension and saying he "did not have joy playing basketball," while Cleveland’s heavy payroll makes Garland a candidate to move. Merlin senses a slow burn, not a whirlwind. Ball brings upside but carries injury risk, Young looks unlikely to be shopped according to Michael Scotto, Harden may stay put in Los Angeles, and Morant’s form and recent calf time lower his market value. Expect targeted calls rather than blockbuster panic.