Nets interested in getting Smith from Hawks
The Brooklyn Nets are trying to acquire forward Josh Smith from the Atlanta Hawks.
A source told ESPN that the two sides have recently talked but a deal is not yet close.
The Nets are reportedly willing to trade power forward Kris Humphries and shooting guard MarShon Brooks to get the versatile Smith. It is believed, however, that the Hawks also want a young center or a first round pick in the deal.
Brooklyn has also inquired about trading Humphries to the Charlotte Bobcats for guard Ben Gordon.
The trade deadline is Feb. 21.
Other scenarios involving Smith include Atlanta guard Anthony Morrow being included in the deal or a third team being involved.
Smith is a free agent this summer and the Hawks are trying to decide if they should try to get something for him in a trade before his contract is up. Smith likely wants a maximum-salary deal if the Hawks decide they want to re-sign him.
The Hawks could also try to keep Smith to also lure his friend, star center Dwight Howard, but it is believed that Howard is not interested in playing for the Hawks. Howard is also a free agent at the end of the season.
