With the NBA trade deadline fast approaching, rumours are starting to fly about some of the league’s biggest stars. From Giannis Antetokounmpo in Milwaukee to Anthony Davis in Dallas, basketball fans could see some blockbuster deals over the next week or so.
At this point in the season, teams need to decide whether they’re loading up for a deep playoff run or selling off assets and planning for the future. This year’s trade market is littered with talent, but whether the marquee players end up being traded remains to be seen.
These decisions will have a major impact on the rest of the season, so let’s take a closer look at some of the biggest names to watch ahead of the NBA’s February 5 trade deadline.
Giannis Antetokounmpo, Bucks
It’s not every day that a two-time MVP is traded, but some insiders believe Antetokounmpo’s days with the Bucks could finally be numbered. Giannis is out with a right calf injury for the next four to six weeks, but would still make for a massive addition for any contending team.
While Giannis has not demanded a trade out of Milwaukee, it may be in the Bucks’ best interest to move on from their franchise player. With rumours of a potential deal to the Knicks or Warriors, Antetokounmpo’s next destination could redefine the balance of power in the NBA.
Ja Morant, Grizzlies
Once considered one of the league’s brightest young stars, off-court issues have made the former No. 2 overall draft pick expendable. He’s missed more than half of Memphis’ games this season to injury and continues to be a distraction for the Grizzlies, who would be better off maving on from the two-time All-Star.
Having said all that, Morant still has a ton of potential when healthy. He’s averaging 19.5 points and 8.1 assists this season, proving that he can still be an impact player in the league. He won’t come cheap, having signed a five-year, $197 million contract in 2022, but Morant is still just 26 and could return to his All-Star level if he finds the right fit with a new team.
Michael Porter Jr., Nets
A skilled shooter with size and scoring versatility, Porter Jr. is another big name being thrown around as we near the NBA trade deadline. He’s a veteran forward with significant playoff experience, having been a key contributor during the Nuggets’ championship run in 2023.
Now in his first season with the Nets, Porter Jr. is thriving. He’s putting up a career-high 24.9 points per game while shooting an efficient 38.9% from beyond the arc. With Brooklyn sitting near the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings, don’t be surprised if we see Porter Jr. shipped off to a playoff contender like the Pistons or Warriors.
Anthony Davis, Mavericks
It wasn’t that long ago that Anthony Davis was involved in a blockbuster trade, being sent to the Mavericks in exchange for Luka Doncic. It sounds like Davis could be on the move yet again, with his name continuing to come up as a possible trade candidate.
The veteran forward-centre can still get it done when healthy, a fact made evident by his 20.4 points and 11.1 rebounds per game this season. With Dallas currently outside the playoff picture, teams like the Hawks and Raptors have reportedly been in hot pursuit of the versatile big man.
LaMelo Ball, Hornets
One of the best young point guards in the NBA today, LaMelo Ball is one of the more intriguing names being thrown around heading into the trade deadline. Ball is an elite offensive playmaker known for his creativity and flair with the basketball. While he’s struggled at times this season, that’s nothing a change of scenery can’t fix.
The trade rumours started back in November, when Ball was reportedly “increasingly frustrated” with the Hornets franchise. While he refuted that report and stated that he was committed to Charlotte, a poor start to the campaign has put him back in the spotlight. It wouldn’t be a shock to see a point guard-needy team like the Lakers or Celtics make a strong push to acquire Ball at the deadline.
Jonathan Kuminga, Warriors
Kuminga and the Warriors have had a contentious relationship for some time now, so nobody was surprised when he requested a trade earlier this season. Golden State has already begun exploring potential trade options, making him one of the more likely trade targets at this year’s deadline.
For all of the drama in Golden State, Kuminga remains an effective offensive weapon. While he’s yet to reach his full potential since the Warriors took him in the first round of the 2021 draft, he’s got the size and athleticism teams desire. With rumours swirling of a potential trade to the Heat in exchange for Andrew Wiggins, Kuminga could soon get that fresh start he’s been looking for.