Eric Gordon
Eric Gordon has played in just 18 games this season. sports-kings.com

Eric Gordon is one of the best young players in the NBA. He’s also one of the few big names that could be moved by the Feb. 21 trade deadline.

The New Orleans Hornets star is the latest player to be involved in trade rumors. ESPN’s Chris Broussard is reporting that Gordon could be dealt within the next week.

According to the report, multiple teams are interested in acquiring the 24-year-old. Broussard writes that the Dallas Mavericks, Golden State Warriors and Houston Rockets have inquired about the shooting guard.

There is a feeling around the league that Gordon would welcome a trade. He signed a four-year, $58 million offer sheet with the Phoenix Suns in the summer. At the time, Gordon made it clear that he was ready to leave New Orleans.

"After visiting the Suns, the impression the organization made on me was incredible,” Gordon stated. “Mr. (Robert) Sarver, Lon Babby, Lance Blanks, the Front Office Staff and Coach (Alvin) Gentry run a first-class organization, and I strongly feel they are the right franchise for me. Phoenix is just where my heart is now."

Even though Gordon expressed his desire to play in Phoenix, New Orleans matched the offer.

While the Hornets have been gauging interest in Gordon, it’s not likely that he’ll be traded. A source tells Broussard there is less than 10 percent chance of a deal being completed.

Gordon was sent to New Orleans in the deal that netted the Los Angeles Clippers Chris Paul. In his first three seasons with the Clippers, Gordon improved every year. In the 2010-2011 season, he set career-highs with 22.3 points, 4.4 assists and 2.9 rebounds per game.

Since moving to New Orleans, Gordon has been plagued by injuries. Last year, he played in only nine games. He’s missed another 35 this season, and may not be dealt because of a diminished trade vaule.

The Warriors might have the best shot of landing Gordon. Houston and Dallas will be wary of taking on an expensive three-year contract. Both clubs are hoping to save salary cap space and sign Dwight Howard if he doesn’t return to the Los Angeles Lakers.