Report: Nets believe there is a trade market for Deron Williams

The Brooklyn Nets are operating under the belief that there is a trade market out there for point guard Deron Williams, according to ESPN New York's Ohm Youngmisuk.

Good luck with that.

It's a nice thought, but how realistic the belief is remains to be seen. Youngmisuk reports the Nets are gauging whether other teams believe that the 31-year-old Williams could just use a change of scenery.

The obstacle of course is Williams' contract, which represents the closest thing there is to an albatross in today's NBA. While teams would surely consider adding a veteran point guard, even one who has lost a step, it's another thing to do it at $43 million over the next two seasons.

The Nets have already gone on record as saying Williams will not be bought out or "stretched," which would clearly indicate they intend to deal him or ride things out.

The No. 3 pick in the 2005 NBA Draft shot sub-40 percent for the first time in his career this past season, but went off for 35 points in a playoff win over the Atlanta Hawks - only his second 30-point game in two years.

Williams' backcourt partner, Joe Johnson, is also on the block, but his contract is more forgiving to the Nets. With one year and $25 million remaining, it's highly likely Big Shot Joe will be moved. Reports on Monday had Brooklyn in discussions with the Memphis Grizzlies.