NBA Trade Season: A Quiet Prelude to Potential Deals

The NBA trade season unofficially kicks off on December 15, and while this year has seen a remarkably quiet 2025-26 campaign till now, the impending February 5 deadline has fans and analysts alike pondering if this lull is merely the calm before a significant storm. With the Eastern Conference appearing wide open and the Western Conference's Oklahoma City Thunder cooling down, teams are starting to strategize for possible trades as they seek to gain competitive advantages.

NCAA Prospects Looming Large

As the NCAA season progresses, bottom-tier NBA teams are closely watching college prospects like AJ Dybantsa (BYU), Cameron Boozer (Duke), and Darryn Peterson (Kansas). The impending trade deadline is anticipated to reveal teams prioritizing draft position over immediate wins, especially as some franchises look to rebuild. Understanding the potential deals in play can offer insights into how teams envision their futures in the rapidly approaching trade period.

Top Players on the Trade Block

With this context in mind, we delve into the top ten players likely to be involved in trades as the deadline looms, including potential landing spots for each:

1. Ja Morant - Memphis Grizzlies

Currently, the Memphis Grizzlies find themselves under the tax by $16 million, yet the future for Ja Morant is sketchy. Once a back-to-back All-Star (2022 and 2023), Morant has faced injuries and a suspension due to a recent off-court incident. Averaging just 20.8 percent from beyond the arc this season, his shooting struggles have further complicated his trade value. While the Grizzlies seem hesitant to offload him without a suitable return, the Miami Heat and Sacramento Kings are considered viable destinations for the guard as they hope to revitalize his once-explosive play.

2. Zach LaVine - Sacramento Kings

Like Morant, Zach LaVine's performance has been affected by injuries, yet he still averages 20.2 points per game, shooting 38.8 percent from three-point range for the Kings. LaVine aims to secure a longer-term contract and could be a valuable asset for teams desiring a scoring punch. The Brooklyn Nets, Milwaukee Bucks, and New Orleans Pelicans could be looking to leverage their assets in trades for LaVine, who may help bolster their offensive lineups.

3. Trae Young - Atlanta Hawks

Trae Young's tenure with the Hawks appears uncertain as the team's dynamics shifted during his recent absence. With contract negotiations looming, options exist where Atlanta could look to move him rather than retain his large salary for the subsequent years. Potential trade partners could include the LA Clippers and Washington Wizards, who may see value in adding Young to their rosters.

4. Coby White - Chicago Bulls

Despite averaging over 18 points a game, Coby White's efficacy has diminished this season due to injury. Though unlikely for a sizeable extension, teams may view his potential as a valuable addition. The Milwaukee Bucks, Minnesota Timberwolves, and Sacramento Kings appear poised to explore trades that might snag him from the Bulls.

5. Jonathan Kuminga - Golden State Warriors

Having fallen out of the rotation, Jonathan Kuminga's place in the Warriors remains murky, yet his youth and competitive contract make him an appealing trade candidate. Teams such as the Chicago Bulls, Sacramento Kings, and Utah Jazz might see his acquisition as a chance to unlock his potential within a new environment.

6. James Harden - LA Clippers

Despite rallying recent performances, the Clippers have critical decisions to make regarding James Harden. His contract situation presents financial flexibility dilemmas for the organization. However, should his value be deemed worthy, interest could arise from the Atlanta Hawks and New Orleans Pelicans to secure his services.

7. Anthony Davis - Dallas Mavericks

When healthy, Anthony Davis is a two-way powerhouse; however, his durability has raised questions. The Mavericks may be reluctant to offload him given the hefty contract and the implications of trading star players like Luka Dončić, but his name will likely surface in trade discussions with teams like the Atlanta Hawks and Golden State Warriors considering an aggressive team-building strategy.

8. Michael Porter Jr. - Brooklyn Nets

Averaging 25.9 points and hitting over 40% from three-point range, Michael Porter is thriving with the Nets. Given Brooklyn's intent to build for the future, moving him while his stock is high could be lucrative. Potential suitors include the Detroit Pistons and Milwaukee Bucks, both of whom seek to enhance their postseason chances.

9. Trey Murphy III - New Orleans Pelicans

Averaging 20.7 points per game, Murphy's solid performance has him catching attention, though the Pelicans appear in no rush to part ways with him. Acquiring teams, such as the Detroit Pistons and Utah Jazz, might have to pay a high price to secure his talents.

10. Giannis Antetokounmpo - Milwaukee Bucks

While Giannis appears integral to the Bucks' plans, speculation continually surrounds his future. Should he demand a trade, major franchises like the Atlanta Hawks and Miami Heat might scramble to acquire his services.

Conclusion: The Countdown to the Trade Deadline

As the NBA trade deadline approaches, teams will strategize, reshuffle rosters, and assess how best to position themselves for both short-term success and long-term planning. While whispers of potential trades abound, the reality is that making impactful moves requires intricate negotiation and considerable risk. Expect a slew of moves in the upcoming weeks as franchises navigate these critical decisions leading into one of the most pivotal spells on the NBA calendar.