In the landscape of NBA front offices, the perception of roster players as untouchable often serves as a strategy to augment offers. However, most teams are fortunate to identify just one player they would truly hesitate to trade. As the 2025 summer approaches, potentially filled with trades, a closer look at the most untouchable names on each team is warranted. It is essential to acknowledge that, amidst recent trades like Luka Dončić's departure and the anticipated influx of transactions connected to the second apron, the notion of an untouchable player is becoming increasingly rare.

For instance, All-Rookie first-teamer and former No. 1 overall pick Zaccharie Risacher is not entirely impervious to a trade. Though both he and Most Improved Player Dyson Daniels represent valuable young assets under rookie-scale contracts, if the Milwaukee Bucks were to propose a deal including both for Giannis Antetokounmpo, it is likely the Hawks would entertain such an offer for an elite superstar. This reality affirms that most teams would consider trading any player for the right price, although it would require a considerable offer to extract players like Atlanta's promising rookie wing.

The Boston Celtics are in a precarious financial situation, potentially facing a $500 million payroll and tax obligation. Consequently, they may need to explore drastic measures, which could involve trading players like Jrue Holiday, Kristaps Porzingis, Derrick White, or even Jaylen Brown. However, Jayson Tatum is unlikely to be part of any cost-cutting strategies. The Celtics appear focused on restructuring their roster and financial commitments in anticipation of Tatum's return from a ruptured Achilles in the 2026-27 season or 2027-28. The situation begs the question: what offers might arise for Tatum during the summer, given that acquiring him would entail a hefty salary commitment of $54.1 million to sit out the next year, followed by another $260 million through 2029-30?

The Brooklyn Nets are not categorically opposed to trading Cam Johnson, but previous attempts by other teams to acquire him have not met Brooklyn's valuation. Relative to the rest of their roster, Johnson is deemed untouchable. The Nets, who are in the midst of a rebuild, would likely consider trading many other players for lower-tier returns. Last season, they dealt Dennis Schroder and Dorian Finney-Smith for deals that featured primarily second-round picks, while reports indicate that offers for Johnson would need to include first-round assets. Due to Johnson’s status as a capable starting forward under a $20.5 million contract for 2025-26, the Nets are justified in commanding a significant return.

In terms of young talent, Brandon Miller has begun to carve out a niche for himself as a potential cornerstone for the Charlotte Hornets, particularly when compared to LaMelo Ball. Miller's promising rookie season, which featured averages of 17.3 points per game and a 37.3 shooting percentage from three, positioned him as the third runner-up for Rookie of the Year honors. Although his second season has been cut short due to injury after averaging 21.0 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 3.6 assists, Miller's durability puts him in a favorable light next to an often-injured Ball who has not yet solidified his status as a franchise player despite multiple All-Star selections.

The Chicago Bulls have demonstrated a reluctance toward full-scale rebuilds, although they recognize the significance of young talent. Matas Buzelis, who completed a rookie season with averages of 8.6 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 2.8 assists, stands out as a player with considerable potential. While Coby White could be regarded as the Bulls' best player, averaging 20.4 points last season, the team’s financial strategy complicates his future with the franchise as he enters unrestricted free agency. Similarly, Josh Giddey might also emerge as a pivotal player, particularly regarding the Bulls’ matching rights in restricted free agency.

The Cleveland Cavaliers, coming off a disappointing playoff exit for the second consecutive year, may contemplate some adjustments, but trading Evan Mobley is improbable. Cavs president Koby Altman expressed the organization’s commitment to Mobley, emphasizing his importance as one of the best big men in the league. Mobley’s Defensive Player of the Year accolade and subsequent supermax contract through 2029-30 only solidify his status as a core figure on the roster, making him unlikely to be viewed as tradeable.

Although Cooper Flagg has yet to join an NBA roster, he is already being deemed untouchable by the Dallas Mavericks, where he is projected to be a cornerstone for the franchise moving forward. Expected to be selected first overall, Flagg represents an essential bridge to a future beyond the current core built around Anthony Davis and Kyrie Irving.

For the Denver Nuggets, Nikola Jokić stands as perhaps the most indispensable player across the league. The quantitative evidence illustrating the dramatic dip in performance when Jokić is off the court underscores his value to the team. The Nuggets' net rating is markedly worse in games without him, demonstrating his pivotal role. As a two-time MVP and reigning NBA champion, Jokić's departure would be unthinkable for a franchise that values winning.

Cade Cunningham's emergence as a stalwart for the Detroit Pistons marked an essential shift for the franchise, culminating in a playoff return after a lengthy drought. Cunningham was instrumental in leading the Pistons to 44 wins and played a decisive role in securing playoff victories, resulting in his designation as a cornerstone player due to both his potential and leadership qualities.

In Golden State, Stephen Curry’s value has remained unassailable for the franchise. Despite opportunities to trade him during transitional phases, the Warriors have consistently refrained from taking that step. Curry’s influence on both the team’s success and local sports culture reinforces his status as untouchable, with any change in that trajectory contingent solely upon his request.

The Houston Rockets possess a wealth of promising younger players, yet Thompson stands out as especially integral. After making the All-Defensive first team, Thompson emerged as one of the foremost young talents in the league. His defensive capabilities and playmaking acumen have made him a foundational aspect of the team's future, one the Rockets would likely avoid losing in trade discussions.

The Indiana Pacers, fresh off a successful playoff run, have fitted Tyrese Haliburton into a significant role as the orchestrator of their dynamic offense. His skill set and leadership have become essential to the team’s identity, making any consideration of trading him unlikely, especially as the franchise continues rising in prominence.

Kawhi Leonard remains the superstar of the Los Angeles Clippers despite ongoing concerns over his availability. With his contract looming large, the Clippers could be tempted to acquire a younger talent to mitigate the risks tied to Leonard's health. Meanwhile, James Harden's status remains uncertain, focused on achieving outcomes that could impact the Clippers roster moving forward as they navigate their own franchise timeline.

The Memphis Grizzlies have also identified Jaren Jackson Jr. as untouchable, given his emerging superstardom, particularly as he offers a two-way skill set that justifies prioritizing his retention over other players, such as Ja Morant. Jackson's recent performance has solidified his standing as a franchise centerpiece, while Morant’s off-court troubles create uncertainty surrounding his future with the team.

As the Miami Heat contemplate roster changes after a disappointing playoff performance, Bam Adebayo’s position appears secure. Adebayo is a defensive anchor and a proven performer on the biggest stages, making him unlikely to be traded as the Heat aim to bolster their roster around him.

The Milwaukee Bucks are fraught with speculation surrounding Giannis Antetokounmpo, particularly as he approaches a critical juncture in his tenure with the team. However, unless there is an explicit trade request from Giannis, the Bucks are unlikely to pursue a deal involving their superstar. Offers for him would surely flood in should he signal an intention to depart.

The Minnesota Timberwolves have taken a firm stance in asserting that Anthony Edwards is not available for trade, even amidst league-wide interest, signaling his status as a key player within their rebuilding framework. His consistent improvement and leadership qualities make him a cornerstone asset that the Timberwolves are reluctant to part with.

The New Orleans Pelicans should also be highlighted for their young talent, particularly Trey Murphy III, who has shown promise this past season. Following a contract extension, Murphy’s performance stands as a testament to his potential as a key player moving forward.

In New York, Jalen Brunson's contributions have positioned him as a beloved figure in the franchise’s recent history. His remarkable skill, coupled with a team-friendly contract, has contributed to the Knicks’ resurgence and underscores his untouchable status in possible trade discussions.

Oklahoma City Thunder general manager Sam Presti is primarily focused on retaining MVP candidate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who serves as their offensive engine. His multifaceted contributions on and off the court enable him to redefine the team’s culture, cementing his status as the most valued player within the organization.

The Orlando Magic, assessing future prospects, recognize that Paolo Banchero is an indispensable player who can only be traded in exchange for significant offensive talent. As an emerging star, Banchero's recent accolades and capabilities emphasize his importance going forward.

For the Philadelphia 76ers, Joel Embiid’s health and exorbitant contract complicate discussions surrounding his tradeability. In contrast, Tyrese Maxey stands out as the only player fulfilling the criteria of youth, star potential, and affordability on the roster, solidifying his role as a key player in Philadelphia's horizon.

Despite Devin Booker’s lack of recent All-NBA recognition, the Phoenix Suns remain unlikely to part with him. The team must navigate options to gain flexibility, but any trade of Booker is not on the table, even as they consider moves involving other star players.

The Portland Trail Blazers see Scoot Henderson as the key under-25 player moving forward, having exhibited significant growth and promise despite a challenging rookie year. His continued development assures his place within the franchise’s future plans, indicating he remains a core asset.

In Sacramento, the potential for significant change looms over the organization, with Keegan Murray identified as a player poised to remain. Murray's continued development as a perimeter defender and scorer could solidify his role within the team amidst a rebuilding effort.

Lastly, the San Antonio Spurs have an unshakeable commitment to Victor Wembanyama, who is regarded as a mainstay within the team for the long-term. His evolving skill set and physical attributes position him as one of the league's least likely players to move from his current role.