NBA Trade Rumors: 3 players the OKC Thunder should keep out of trade talks

#2 Nerlens Noel

Oklahoma City Thunder v Washington Wizards

The Oklahoma City Thunder have been linked with a move for Kevin Love this month, and this has cast doubt over the future of Nerlens Noel. Nevertheless, Noel has accepted his role from the Thunder bench this season, and despite only playing 13.7 minutes per night, the center has still managed to average 5.1 points and 4.6 rebounds per game.

Noel has successfully provided backup to Steven Adams, and due to Noel's consistent performances from the bench, the Thunder no longer suffers when Adams takes time out from the game.

The 24-year-old is currently signed to the Thunder on a two-year deal, worth just $1.7 million for the season, although Noel can opt out of his contract at the end of the current campaign. Nevertheless, the Thunder should work on convincing Noel to stay, as the center could be vital to the team's playoff hopes.