NBA Trade Deadline Approaching
The NBA trade deadline is looming this Thursday, and teams are bracing themselves for significant moves as they aim for the championship. The Oklahoma City Thunder, after beginning the season strong at 24-1, have slid to a 14-10 record, raising questions about their status as title contenders recently. Meanwhile, with Aaron Gordon sidelined due to a foot injury, other teams in the West now see a viable opportunity to vie for the title. The Eastern Conference, conversely, has remained quite open all along, especially in light of recent developments regarding Jayson Tatum’s potential absence for the season as he recovers from a torn Achilles.
It’s clear that NBA parity is a reality this season, which likely points to an active trade deadline. Giannis Antetokounmpo is at the forefront of players who may be traded, with several contenders emerging as potential suitors for the Milwaukee Bucks star.
SB Nation will keep you updated on all the developments surrounding the NBA trade deadline. Here are the key rumors you should know.
Lakers and Cavs Explore DeAndre Hunter Trade
The Cleveland Cavaliers and Los Angeles Lakers are in discussions about a trade that could see Rui Hachimura and Dalton Knecht head to Cleveland while DeAndre Hunter moves to Los Angeles. According to reports, the Lakers aim to try different wing players alongside Luka Doncic, and Hachimura is looking at a new contract next season that’s expected to increase from his current $18 million salary.
Hachimura has been impressive for the Lakers, averaging 4.2 made three-pointers per game with a shooting percentage of 43.3%. In contrast, Hunter struggles with his shooting, hitting only 31% from three-point range. Notably, the Cavs have a +10 net rating when Hunter is off the floor, although there are some fluctuations in that number, it’s still a concern for the team.
Next year, Hunter will earn $24.9 million, which is quite notable, especially for a player in Los Angeles.
Raptors Weigh Trade for Domantas Sabonis
Currently holding a 29-20 record in the Eastern Conference, the Toronto Raptors are facing challenges at center due to Jakob Poeltl’s ongoing hip issue. As a solution, they might be looking to acquire a top center on the market.
Domantas Sabonis is reportedly catching the Raptors’ eye, as per Doug Smith of the Toronto Star. The Raptors are cautious about losing depth but may find it challenging to bring Poeltl back without substantial draft compensation.
While Sabonis lacks rim protection and offensive spacing, he’s an excellent rebounder and passer, as well as a strong scorer inside. The Raptors may think an upgrade at center could put them in contention for the Eastern Conference title, though the Kings seem poised for another full rebuild, complicating any potential trade.
Teams Eyeing Keon Ellis
Keon Ellis might not have had much playing time for the Kings this season, but his skill set and tough defense on the wing have drawn the attention of various teams in the league. The Cavaliers are among those expressing interest, as reported by Jake Fisher and Marc Stein.
According to earlier reports, up to 14 teams have reached out to the Kings about Ellis. His expiring contract makes him a low-risk pickup for teams looking to bolster their roster. Could the Kings manage to secure a first-round pick for him? With so many teams keen, it’s certainly a possibility.
Could the Nets Make a Big Offer for Giannis?
Despite being one of the struggling teams in the league, the Brooklyn Nets find themselves with significant cap space this summer along with multiple draft picks from trades, particularly the one involving Mikal Bridges. If Giannis intends to remain in New York, the Nets could potentially make a substantial offer.
Yet, I remain skeptical. It’s hard to see Brooklyn making meaningful progress in the rebuild, even with a star like Giannis on board.
Thunder Seeking Center Assistance
The Oklahoma City Thunder hold a $28.5 million team option on Isaiah Hartenstein next season. Hartenstein has shown he’s a great defender, rebounder, and passer but has faced injuries this year. Additionally, the Thunder’s salary structure is growing more complex with upcoming contract extensions for Jaylen Williams and Chet Holmgren.
Rumor has it that the Thunder are looking for center help, as per ESPN’s Brian Windhorst. If they were to avoid Hartenstein’s option, he could potentially become a highly sought-after free agent by 2026.
Interestingly, OKC has three first-round picks for the 2026 draft. They previously acquired Georgetown center Thomas Sober with a first-round pick, but he sustained a season-ending injury before playing a game. There’s talk that the Thunder might pursue Hartenstein and the Clippers’ Ivica Zubac, but that remains speculative.
