Top 30 Players Likely to Move at 2026 NBA Trade Deadline
The 2026 NBA trade deadline is anticipated to bring significant changes to many teams and players. Following last year’s blockbuster trade of Luka Dončić for Anthony Davis, the landscape has shifted. Several teams are looking to optimize their rosters, while others find themselves in rebuild mode. With key contenders in both the Eastern and Western Conferences facing various challenges, there’s heightened speculation about potential trades.
Market Overview
This season appears to be a seller’s market. The championship race shows a clear separation, with 3-4 teams prominently positioned for title contention. Meanwhile, teams like the Oklahoma City Thunder, Denver Nuggets, and San Antonio Spurs are grappling with their circumstances. Injuries, inexperience, and playoff aspirations factor into decisions as the trade deadline approaches on February 5.
Top Players Likely to Move
- Giannis Antetokounmpo, F, Milwaukee Bucks
- Reason: Potential divorce from the Bucks.
- Return sought: 3-4 first-round picks and a young blue-chip player.
- Anthony Davis, C/F, Dallas Mavericks
- Reason: Mavs seeking to rebuild around Cooper Flagg.
- Return sought: Salary relief, a first-round pick, a promising young player.
- Karl-Anthony Towns, C/F, New York Knicks
- Reason: Knicks trying to maximize their championship window.
- Return sought: Star players or significant assets.
- Domantas Sabonis, C, Sacramento Kings
- Reason: Kings looking to overhaul their roster.
- Return sought: First-round pick or promising young talent.
- Michael Porter Jr., F, Brooklyn Nets
- Reason: All-Star form means selling high during a rebuild.
- Return sought: Two first-round picks or combination of picks and young talent.
- Ja Morant, G, Memphis Grizzlies
- Reason: The organization seems set to move on.
- Return sought: First-round pick and young player.
- Coby White, G, Chicago Bulls
- Reason: Expiring contract prompts the Bulls to explore trade options.
- Return sought: First-round pick and young talent.
- Kristaps Porziņģis, C, Atlanta Hawks
- Reason: Difficulty staying healthy makes him a trade candidate.
- Return sought: Draft compensation and salary relief.
- Zach LaVine, G, Sacramento Kings
- Reason: Seeking a fresh start as Kings rebuild.
- Return sought: Anything they can get.
- Tobias Harris, F, Detroit Pistons
- Reason: Large expiring salary can facilitate another transaction.
- Return sought: Starting-level player.
- Bobby Portis, F, Milwaukee Bucks
- Reason: Bucks aiming for a complete roster reset.
- Return sought: Future draft assets.
- Jeremy Sochan, F, San Antonio Spurs
- Reason: Approaching restricted free agency amid limited playing time.
- Return sought: Second-round draft capital.
- Jakob Poeltl, C, Toronto Raptors
- Reason: Unfavorable contract situation with frequent injuries.
- Return sought: Offloading the contract.
As the February 5 trade deadline nears, keep an eye on these players as teams navigate roster decisions. The landscape may shift dramatically, setting the stage for a different playoff picture in 2026.
