The Nets have one problem keeping them from being a true contender: interior defense. More specifically, the pick & roll, help rotations, close out on shooters type of interior D; not the post up, shotblocking type which the Nets already have to an extent.

The value of Kris Humphries' contract as a trade chip comes next year, when he is an expiring contract, rather than this year. So here is my list of players that could help out, would be under contract in 13-14, that also could realistically be dumped by their teams for Hump's expiring contract

Kevin Garnett

Why/How? If the Boston contention attempt fails spectacularly and they decide it's time to do the full rebuild and get salaries off their books.

Tyrus Thomas

Why/How? There's no scenario in which the Bobcats would not rather have Hump's expiring than Tyrus Thomas. So how is this a good move? Well A. Tyrus would be playing with Deron who has the best chance as anyone of reviving him B. His contract only runs for 2014-15 so he would be essentially a 2 year contract C. He's the mobile power forward the Nets lack, and just a few seasons ago he was absolutely key to the Bulls taking the Celtics to 7 games

Thaddeus Young

Why/How? Not exactly a power forward, but solves the mobile forward defender than the Nets need. If the Sixers see the need to acquire a more traditional PF (and one that some people in their circles are rumored to be interested in) or decide to clear up some cap space to improve a team that isn't really working, they may look to deal.

Jason Thompson/Chuck Hayes

Why/How? With Cousins getting a pay raise in 2014 and the presence of Thomas Robinson, the presence of both guys on the roster may mean one of them becomes expendable to provide salary relief to the financially constrained Maloofs.