2026 NBA Trade Deadline: Top 30 Players Likely to Move

2026 NBA Trade Deadline: Top 30 Players Likely to Move

The 2026 NBA trade deadline is set for February 5, and it promises to bring significant player movement. Following a dramatic previous deadline, where Luka Doncic was traded for Anthony Davis, teams are eyeing potential trades for key players. This year, several players could shift rosters as teams compete for championship contention or undergo rebuilding phases.

Top 30 Players Likely to Move Before the 2026 NBA Trade Deadline

As the deadline approaches, here’s a list of players who are likely to be on the move:

  • Giannis Antetokounmpo, F, Milwaukee Bucks
    The Bucks may part ways with Giannis, with substantial returns expected, including multiple first-round picks and a young player.
  • Anthony Davis, C/F, Dallas Mavericks
    The Mavericks are retooling and might deal Davis for salary relief and draft picks, especially with concerns about his health.
  • Karl-Anthony Towns, C/F, New York Knicks
    While he might not be traded immediately, failing to reach the finals could push the Knicks to move him later.
  • Domantas Sabonis, C, Sacramento Kings
    With the Kings needing a fresh start, Sabonis is expected to attract interest for future draft picks.
  • Michael Porter Jr., F, Brooklyn Nets
    The Nets might trade Porter to maximize their return during his peak performance this season.
  • Ja Morant, G, Memphis Grizzlies
    The Grizzlies may be ready to move on from Morant, desiring a young player and a first-round pick in return.
  • Coby White, G, Chicago Bulls
    His expiring contract makes him a likely candidate for trade as the Bulls look to maximize assets.
  • Kristaps Porzingis, C, Atlanta Hawks
    An injury-prone player whose contract is expiring, Porzingis could be a trade asset for salary relief.
  • Ayo Dosunmu, G, Chicago Bulls
    The Bulls might trade him for future assets while he is performing well.
  • Zach LaVine, G, Sacramento Kings
    Seeking a change, LaVine could be traded for various returns as he embarks on a new chapter.
  • Tobias Harris, F, Detroit Pistons
    A large expiring contract, Harris could aid in facilitating trades to help the Pistons improve.
  • Goga Bitadze, C, Orlando Magic
    The Magic could look to move Bitadze for draft picks or another young player.
  • Bennedict Mathurin, G, Indiana Pacers
    With limited fit in Indiana, Mathurin could be traded for draft assets.
  • Daniel Gafford, C, Dallas Mavericks
    Prioritizing the future, the Mavericks might deal Gafford for flexibility and future picks.
  • Naji Marshall, F, Dallas Mavericks
    A team-friendly contract makes Marshall an attractive option for teams seeking depth.
  • Rui Hachimura, F, Los Angeles Lakers
    With uncertain future plans, the Lakers may look to trade Hachimura for draft assets.
  • Grant Williams, F, Charlotte Hornets
    A valuable veteran with playoff experience, Williams could yield future assets.
  • Keon Ellis, G, Sacramento Kings
    The Kings’ rebuilding may prompt them to trade Ellis for picks.
  • Anfernee Simons, G, Boston Celtics
    To reduce luxury tax concerns, Simons may be a salary-matching trade piece.
  • Bobby Portis, F, Milwaukee Bucks
    As the Bucks prepare for a rebuild, Portis may be included in trades for young assets.
  • Rob Dillingham, G, Minnesota Timberwolves
    An underperforming draft pick, Dillingham could be traded for a more effective point guard.
  • DeMar DeRozan, G, Sacramento Kings
    As the Kings look to rebuild, DeRozan may be on the move for draft compensation.
  • Jusuf Nurkic, C, Utah Jazz
    The Jazz may free Nurkic to accelerate their rebuilding process.
  • Jordan Poole, G, New Orleans Pelicans
    The Pelicans might trade Poole to clear payroll and focus on building a more balanced roster.
  • Gradey Dick, G/F, Toronto Raptors
    He could be part of a package for a center or playmaker.
  • Dalton Knecht, F, Los Angeles Lakers
    After requesting a trade, Knecht’s value could appeal to teams looking to strengthen their roster.
  • Kyle Kuzma, F, Milwaukee Bucks
    Expected to move as the Bucks assess options for Giannis deals.
  • Terrence Shannon Jr., G, Minnesota Timberwolves
    With little rotation opportunity, Shannon could be traded for depth assets.
  • Jeremy Sochan, F, San Antonio Spurs
    As the Spurs look to move on, Sochan’s potential can draw interest.
  • Jakob Poeltl, C, Toronto Raptors
    His difficult contract may lead to a trade if the Raptors seek greater flexibility.

As the trade deadline draws closer, many teams are weighing their options. The potential for high-profile trades is significant, underlining the competitive landscape of the NBA.