The 2025-26 NBA season is reaching a pivotal moment as teams assess their rosters, leading to heightened speculation surrounding potential trades. With the trade deadline set for February 5, 2026, franchises are weighing their options, including the future of star players and potential deals that could shake up the league.
Upcoming Trade Opportunities
The trade landscape is set to expand significantly on December 15, a date highlighted by ESPN’s Brian Windhorst during a recent episode of *The Hoop Collective* podcast. Windhorst noted that while immediate trades are unlikely next week, teams are starting to evaluate their roster’s weaknesses. Bobby Marks from ESPN echoed this sentiment, indicating that around 82 players will become eligible for trades on December 15.
Marks also referenced last year’s early trade, where Dennis Schroder was dealt from Brooklyn to Golden State on the first day players became eligible. The Dallas Mavericks are reportedly considering trades for several significant players, including Anthony Davis, as they currently sit at 10-16, clinging to the final play-in spot in the Western Conference.
Injury Updates and Trade Prospects
Injury news is also impacting trade considerations. Dereck Lively II, the Mavericks’ starting center, will undergo season-ending foot surgery, which could prompt the team to seek additional help in the frontcourt. Lively’s surgery follows a previous operation in July to address bone spurs in the same foot, limiting him to just seven games this season.
As teams navigate injuries, several are eyeing Anthony Davis, with interest reported from the Detroit Pistons, Atlanta Hawks, and Toronto Raptors. The Mavericks are also exploring trade options for veteran guards Klay Thompson and D’Angelo Russell as they seek to improve their standing.
Discussions are expected to grow more intense as players become eligible. For instance, the Golden State Warriors are willing to consider trades involving Jonathan Kuminga, whose $22.5 million salary could facilitate a larger trade package. Similarly, the Indiana Pacers are in the market for a center after losing Myles Turner to the Milwaukee Bucks in the off-season.
Trade Market Challenges
The trade market appears less favorable for stars like Giannis Antetokounmpo. Windhorst highlighted the reluctance among teams to part with multiple first-round picks, stating, “The mood in the NBA right now is not to give up four first-round picks for anybody.” He acknowledged that while there may be a demand for superstars, the current appetite for trades has shifted significantly compared to previous seasons.
As the February trade deadline approaches, the situation surrounding Giannis will be closely monitored. Reports indicate discussions are ongoing between the star and his agent, Alex Saratsis, regarding whether his best fit remains with the Bucks. Giannis is currently averaging 28.9 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 6.1 assists per game, but the team’s performance at 10-13 raises questions about their long-term trajectory.
In another notable development, Chris Paul, a 12-time All-Star, was sent home by the Clippers ahead of their game against the Atlanta Hawks. Paul signed a one-year deal with Los Angeles in the off-season but had reportedly been at odds with head coach Ty Lue for several weeks. He is currently averaging just 14.3 minutes and 2.9 points per game this season.
As teams continue to evaluate their strategies, the NBA trade landscape promises to deliver excitement and unexpected moves in the weeks leading up to the deadline. Fans and analysts alike will be keeping a close watch on how these dynamics unfold.
