The NBA trade deadline is looming, and Giannis Antetokounmpo seems to be at the center of everyone’s conversations. Finding a new home for the Greek star is challenging, but it looks like he might stay put until the summer when the Milwaukee Bucks could potentially accept a contract. No need for panic, though—there’s a whole roster of other players likely to be attractive in trade talks. For a deeper dive, you can check out our rundown of 30 potential trade candidates.
The NBA’s salary cap rules can make some deals practically impossible. Take, for instance, the idea of sending Zach LaVine to the Toronto Raptors, who really need help with shooting, in exchange for Jakob Poeltl and a first-round pick. Unfortunately, the salaries didn’t align. I even tried drafting a three-team deal, but it still didn’t work out.
Multiple teams are in a good position with draft picks, expiring contracts, and veterans looking for new opportunities. Some of these teams include the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Detroit Pistons—both aiming for championship titles—as well as play-in contenders like the Chicago Bulls and the Portland Trail Blazers. Here are a few trades that could be interesting.
Thunder Target Michael Porter Jr.
The Thunder are currently favorites for the title, but their shooting struggles, particularly from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, jeopardize their chances. A proposed deal sends Lou Dort and two first-round picks to Brooklyn in exchange for Michael Porter Jr. Known for his shooting skills, Porter averages nearly 40 percent from three-point range on almost ten attempts each game. While Dort has vital defensive qualities, the Thunder already have a solid lineup with Alex Caruso and Kason Wallace. They’d be trading Philadelphia’s current pick, projected to be 18th, and one from Denver in the next draft. It’s possible the Nets could flip Dort for extra draft assets this summer. Although OKC hasn’t been particularly dominant lately, this move could help them secure back-to-back championships.
Blazers Eye Ayo Dosunmu
The Blazers already began making moves by acquiring Vit Krejci from the Hawks, indicating they’re buyers at the deadline. They still owe the Bulls a lottery-protected first-round pick from a previous trade involving Lauri Markkanen and Larry Nance Jr. They might lighten the pick protection to the top four to snag Ayo Dosunmu from Chicago. Dosunmu, who’s gearing up for unrestricted free agency this summer, is having an impressive season with a shooting percentage of 45 from deep and solid defense. The Blazers need to strengthen their guard lineup if they want to make it to the playoffs. Next season could see a crowded backcourt with the potential return of Damian Lillard and Scoot Henderson, but Dosunmu’s speed and shooting fit well in nearly any rotation. Chicago would likely get a mid-first-round pick in return, cushion in case Portland misses the playoffs and lands a favorable lottery draw.
Pistons Buy Low on Coby White
What’s next for the Bulls as Coby White approaches free agency? The Minnesota Timberwolves are reportedly interested, but I’m not entirely convinced they’d accept a deal sending Joan Bellinger and Rob Dillingham to Chicago for White. If the Bulls are leaning towards the Pistons’ offer, they should really consider Minnesota, though honestly, Detroit’s package isn’t bad either. The Pistons need a reliable ball handler and shooter next to Cade Cunningham, and White can deliver instant offense at his best. This deal would also bring Paul Reed back to Chicago on a more affordable $5.5 million contract next year, adding depth at the big man position. Plus, the Bulls would receive four second-round picks that could land in the top half of that round. If they don’t plan to keep White, moving him now makes a lot of sense, even without getting a first-round pick.
James Harden’s Potential Return to Rockets
James Harden appears keen on leaving the Clippers, and a return to the Houston Rockets seems plausible. The two teams could negotiate some protection for a first-round pick in 2028. In exchange for Harden, three players who haven’t really contributed much this season for Houston may head to Los Angeles. At 36, Harden’s still capable of providing the shooting and playmaking the Rockets need to push for a playoff spot.
Hornets Go After Jaren Jackson Jr.
The Charlotte Hornets enjoyed a fantastic January, showing promising potential as long as LaMelo Ball remains healthy alongside Brandon Miller and Con Knuppel. Yet, they’re still in need of a shooter big man who can also protect the rim. Jaren Jackson Jr. could fit that mold perfectly. I debated whether Memphis should receive two or three future first-round picks, but either option makes sense for both teams. The Hornets could be ready to compete in the East next year, especially if they could acquire Jackson, while Memphis could focus entirely on their rebuilding process.
Cam Thomas Trade to Raptors?
The Raptors are looking to bolster their offense for the playoff push, and bringing Cam Thomas from the Nets might be a smart move. Thomas seems to be out of Brooklyn’s long-term plans, but perhaps someone like Jonathan Mogbo could find a role in that system. Toronto is likely keen on testing Thomas’s interest in re-signing, especially with such an open field in the East. Adding another shooting guard could certainly prove beneficial.
