Report: Nets, Thunder talking Brook Lopez for Reggie Jackson trade
The Thunder are discussing a trade for Nets center Brook Lopez, but Brooklyn first wants to be sure Oklahoma City guard Reggie Jackson would sign an extension, Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo Sports reports.
The two sides discussed a trade centered around Lopez in January, but the Nets reportedly pulled away from talks. At the time, the Nets would have received Kendrick Perkins and his expiring contract in exchange for Lopez.
Lopez, 26, has battled foot injuries over the past three years and missed time earlier this season with a back injury. Since returning to the lineup in late December, Lopez has averaged 14.9 points, 6.2 rebounds and 1.7 blocks in 25.3 minutes while primarily coming off the bench. An All-Star in 2013, Lopez has a $16.7 million player option for next season.
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On Wednesday, Wojnarowski reported Jackson had asked the Thunder for a trade, as his playing time has steadily decreased this season. In the 18 games since the Thunder acquired Dion Waiters, Jackson has averaged 8.5 points, 3.6 rebounds and 2.7 assists in just 20.0 minutes per game.
Jackson is behind Russell Westbrook in the Thunder's lineup and would have an opportunity for more playing time in Brooklyn. Nets point guard Deron Williams has two seasons worth more than $43 million left on his contract, but he has been plagued by injuries since joining the Nets in 2011.
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The Nets are 21-31 and the No. 9 seed in the Eastern Conference. They are one game behind the Miami Heat for the final playoff spot.
The Thunder won five of their last six games before the All-Star break to pull within a half-game of the Phoenix Suns for the No. 8 seed in the Western Conference.
- Paul Palladino
