Monta Ellis Trade Rumors Spread; Andre Iguodala Just One Target For Warriors

Monta Ellis trade rumors seem to be a constant circumstance of existence in today's NBA. The Golden State Warriors took Stephen Curry in the 2009 NBA Draft, and Curry excelled through two seasons. But, like Ellis, he's on the small side and has trouble defending true shooting guards. Given that Curry is also a solid playmaker -- a legit point guard in today's league -- and that he's cheap while Ellis is pricey, and that Curry is considered a "no drama" player while Ellis is a bit more high-maintenance, Monta is the guy on the block, and has been for some time.

Rumors picked up when Jerry West joined Golden State as a consultant; this week, they blew wide open with a report the Warriors were in talks to send Ellis to the Philadelphia 76ers for Andre Iguodala. But Rusty Simmons of the San Francisco Chronicle reports that the Sixers aren't the only team the Warriors have talked to about Ellis.

League sources said the Warriors also have discussed Ellis, among a variety of other players, in trade talks with Atlanta, Chicago, Memphis, Orlando and the Lakers.

It's unclear what pieces the Warriors are seeking for Ellis from those other teams, and it would make sense that other Golden State players -- David Lee, primarily, but also Dorell Wright and cap albatross Andris Biedrins -- would be in play. Defense seems to be and ought to be a priority for Golden State; new coach Mark Jackson emphasized defensive accountability in his first public comments on Tuesday. Iguodala is one of the best wing defenders in the NBA. Ellis is a minus on defense.