NBA Rumors: 3 Bold Predictions for 2022

The NBA season has turned the page into 2022 and while the league looks to continue to move forward through a pandemic that is causing havoc on nightly lineups, it should be business as usual as we move forward into the new year. Here's three bold predictions surrounding some movement in the NBA.

Beal Gets His Wish from Washington

While Bradley Beal remains loyal, there's expectation that he would prefer to play somewhere else and would welcome a move out of Washington. While a mid-season trade may not materialize, expect to see Beal opt out of his contract at season's end and leave $36.4 million on the table. He would be hitting free agency at only 29-years-old, still in his prime and poised to sign a huge contract with a contender. 

Coach Pop Hangs Them Up

There is growing concern that this season will be the last for San Antonio Spurs head coach and NBA legend Gregg Popovich. His 26 year run with the Spurs is unbelievable and one of the best in all of sports. He's won everything under the sun and the 72-year-old is reportedly looking forward to enjoying some fine wine and putting his feet up. Trading in white boards and yelling at refs for beaches and wine glasses doesn't sound like a bad idea at all.

Toronto Raptors Make a Huge Trade

While it may not be for Damian Lillard or Ben Simmons, belief is the Toronto Raptors are exploring blowing up their core and moving on from forward Pascal Siakam. The Raps currently sit at 15-17 on the season and are on the outside looking in at the playoff picture. Siakam has been great so far this season, coming back from offseason surgery and recording 19.9 points per game, 8.1 rebounds and 4.1 assists. There would be a long list of suitors for the swing man's services so depending on the position of interest coming back the other way, the Raps will have a number of teams in the mix. Perhaps the Indiana Pacers and Raptors can work out a blockbuster move.

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