Don’t expect big trades in West

Deadline trades can have a major impact on a playoff race. But don’t look for many blockbuster deals in the Western Conference.

Cleveland? Yes. The Cavaliers might acquire Antawn Jamison or another veteran.

Dallas? Mavericks owner Mark Cuban is never afraid to spend money.

But other Western Conference teams? Probably not.

The reason is simple: Teams with payrolls under the $57.7 million salary cap at the Feb. 18 trading deadline will receive an estimated $4.5 million windfall this summer. Teams over the luxury tax threshold pay dollar for dollar.

Toronto star Chris Bosh, a free agent this summer, might be traded. The Raptors also could keep Bosh and ship him this summer in a sign-and-trade deal.

Houston has been mentioned as a Bosh suitor. So has Oklahoma City. That’s highly unlikely.

Thunder general manager Sam Presti repeatedly has said he’s building for the long term. That’s why it’s doubtful Presti would trade for a player who could sign elsewhere in July.

One intriguing rumor is the Lakers trading Andrew Bynum for Bosh. But the Lakers will be in good shape whether they make a deal or not.

Since Portland lost both centers to season-ending injuries the Trail Blazers might trade Andre Miller or Steve Blake for a big man. But there are reports they could stand pat.

Denver would like to add an inside presence like Indiana backup center Jeff Foster. But the Nuggets also want to stay under the luxury threshold.

Utah might trade Carlos Boozer, but that would be a downgrade that would hamper the Jazz’s post-season chances.

New Orleans is trying to shed salary. But ignore rumors the Hornets might trade David West. They can get under the luxury threshold with a minor deal.

Because of his interior defense, Foster is drawing interest. But that’s not exactly a blockbuster.

Rumors will heat up the next month. But when the smoke clears it wouldn’t be surprising to see most West contenders have rosters similar to the ones they have now.