Trade rumors seem to have been surfacing much earlier this season than in recent years.

Before the season even began, San Antonio Spurs big man LaMarcus Aldridge dealt with trade rumors that were unfounded.

There are always rumors, but many of them never come to fruition although they never stop coming.

Recently, Los Angeles Lakers forward Luol Deng‘s name has begun to surface in the “likely to be traded” category. He was signed on to the team for four years at $72 million and was coveted for his leadership ability to help guide the younger players.

So far, Deng has been unable to find a spot within the Lakers' scheme, shooting just 33% from the field, and hasn't been much of a factor so far.

The team has been having successes despite his struggles, and his name is expected to be dangled in trade rumors until the February deadline.

Otherwise, the $72 million contract may be pitched across the league to find someone who will mesh with the team sooner than later.