The 2025-26 NBA season is gaining momentum as it approaches the quarter mark, marked by significant trade discussions and player evaluations. With notable players contemplating their futures and teams assessing their rosters, the excitement surrounding potential trades is palpable. The trade landscape is expected to heat up considerably leading up to the February 5, 2026 trade deadline, as teams strategize on how to improve their standings.
Upcoming Trade Opportunities and Player Movements
The NBA trade season officially expands on December 15, 2025, a date circled on many calendars as teams begin to make critical decisions regarding their rosters. According to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst, while immediate trades are unlikely next week, the discussions will intensify as teams recognize their strengths and weaknesses. He noted, “December is relatively somewhat of a quiet month, tradewise,” adding that the upcoming period will be crucial for teams evaluating their options.
ESPN’s Bobby Marks echoed this sentiment, revealing that nearly 90% of players will be trade-eligible by Monday. This influx of eligible players could spark a flurry of activity, especially as teams look to offload underperforming assets. Last year, for instance, a trade occurred on the very first day players were eligible, showcasing that surprises can happen at any moment.
The situation for Dallas Mavericks center Dereck Lively II has taken a turn, as he is set to undergo season-ending foot surgery. This news follows an earlier procedure in July to address bone spurs in the same foot, limiting him to just seven games this season.
Notable Players on the Trading Block
As the trade deadline approaches, several high-profile players are garnering interest. Reports indicate that multiple teams, including the Detroit Pistons, Atlanta Hawks, and Toronto Raptors, are keen on acquiring Anthony Davis. The Mavericks, currently struggling with a 10-16 record, are also exploring trades for Davis and veteran guards Klay Thompson and D’Angelo Russell.
Meanwhile, the Golden State Warriors are considering trades involving Jonathan Kuminga, who becomes trade-eligible on January 15, 2026. His lucrative contract, valued at $22.5 million, could serve as leverage for the Warriors to enhance their roster.
The Indiana Pacers are reportedly in the market for a center following the offseason departure of Myles Turner to the Milwaukee Bucks. The Sacramento Kings are also open to trade discussions, with their first-year general manager, Scott Perry, indicating that veterans like Domantas Sabonis, Zach LaVine, and DeMar DeRozan could be on the move.
The landscape for Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Bucks appears to be shifting as well. Windhorst highlighted the reluctance among teams to make significant offers, such as four first-round picks for any player, indicating a shift in trading dynamics. He expressed, “The appetite is just different,” suggesting that the current trade market is less aggressive compared to previous seasons.
Adding to the drama, discussions between Antetokounmpo and his agent about his future with the Bucks are ongoing. Notably, he is averaging 28.9 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 6.1 assists per game this season, making him a valuable asset for any team.
In a remarkable development, Chris Paul, a 12-time All-Star, has parted ways with the Los Angeles Clippers. After struggling to find common ground with head coach Ty Lue, Paul was sent home in advance of the Clippers’ game against the Atlanta Hawks. Having averaged just 14.3 minutes and 2.9 points per game this season, the future remains uncertain for the veteran guard, who signed a one-year deal with the franchise during the offseason. He cannot be traded until after December 15.
As franchises assess their rosters, the focus on All-Star guards Trae Young, LaMelo Ball, and Ja Morant has intensified, with some sources suggesting they may hold “negative value” in the trade market. Concerns about Young’s defensive capabilities and Ball’s in-game decision-making have led to questions about their roles as franchise cornerstones. Morant’s off-court issues are also raising alarms regarding his future with the Memphis Grizzlies and beyond.
With the trade deadline drawing closer, teams are under pressure to make strategic decisions. The next few weeks promise to be pivotal in shaping the landscape of the NBA as franchises look to bolster their chances for a successful season. As the drama unfolds, fans will be watching closely to see how these narratives develop in the run-up to the trade deadline.
