Predicting Which Player From Every NBA Team Is Most Likely To Get Traded Mid-Season

The NBA trade deadline always brings chaos, surprises, and game-changing moves. Every season, there’s a wave of players switching teams, some to help contenders and others as part of rebuilding plans. As of today, each NBA team has a player who could be packing their bags before the deadline hits. Some have already made headlines in trade rumors, while others might be quietly on the move. So, let’s dive into which player from every team is most likely to get traded mid-season and why they could be heading out.

Atlanta Hawks – Trae Young

Trae Young had a solid 2023-24 season statistically, putting up 25.7 points and 10.8 assists per game in 54 appearances. His shooting, however, took a bit of a dip with a 43% field goal percentage and 37% from three, indicating some struggles in efficiency. This was partly due to a finger injury that limited his season, but even with the missed games, he earned his third All-Star selection.

The Hawks are at a crossroads with Young. Over the past few seasons, they’ve plateaued despite their high hopes after reaching the Eastern Conference Finals in 2021. Since then, they’ve hovered around mediocrity, and while Young remains their franchise player, there’s been talk of reshaping the roster. The addition of Dejounte Murray in 2022 was supposed to help, but their chemistry has been inconsistent, and Murray was eventually moved this offseason, signaling that Atlanta might be preparing for more changes.

The biggest rumors swirling around Young this offseason involved potential trades with the Spurs and Lakers. Both teams reportedly explored the possibility but didn’t move forward. San Antonio, in particular, was viewed as a strong candidate to pair Young with Victor Wembanyama, but no deal was struck. As things stand, Young’s high usage and playstyle don’t quite fit with a full rebuild, especially if the Hawks don’t show signs of serious contention early in the season. If things don’t turn around by midseason, Young’s name could pop up again in trade talks, but with his contract and value, it’s going to take a massive offer to make that happen.

Boston Celtics – Payton Pritchard

Payton Pritchard is coming off a solid 2023-24 season, where he averaged 9.6 points, 3.4 assists, and 3.2 rebounds over 82 games. His shooting splits were strong, hitting 46.8% from the field and 38.5% from three-point range. Pritchard played a key role off the bench during the Celtics’ championship run, stepping up in crucial moments when injuries affected the roster.

Heading into the 2024-25 season, Pritchard remains a name often mentioned in trade rumors. After signing a four-year, $30 million extension in October 2023, his contract is considered team-friendly, making him an attractive asset if Boston looks to add depth in other areas like the frontcourt. While he continues to serve as a valuable piece in the Celtics’ guard rotation, Boston’s depth at the position, with stars like Jrue Holiday and Derrick White, could lead the team to explore trade options.

With the Celtics aiming to defend their title, the team is well-positioned for another deep playoff run, and Pritchard’s future in Boston might depend on how the season unfolds and if the team feels the need to make any key midseason moves.

Brooklyn Nets – Cam Johnson

Cam Johnson is a key piece for the Brooklyn Nets, but he’s been a part of recent trade rumors, especially regarding teams looking to add shooting and versatility at the forward position. Johnson, who averaged 13.4 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 2.4 assists in the 2023-24 season, was linked heavily to the Los Angeles Lakers this offseason. The Lakers were reportedly interested in adding him as a stretch forward to complement LeBron James and Anthony Davis, but Brooklyn’s high asking price has kept him in Brooklyn so far.

Johnson signed a four-year, $94.5 million deal in July 2023, making him a valuable asset for the Nets, but with the team in a retooling phase, moving Johnson for future assets remains a possibility. The Nets are looking to build around young players like Cam Thomas and could be open to offers, especially if they’re not contending by midseason.

Charlotte Hornets – Grant Williams

Grant Williams was traded to the Hornets during the 2024 trade deadline, following a somewhat underwhelming tenure with the Dallas Mavericks. After arriving in Charlotte, he immediately boosted the team’s frontcourt, averaging 13.9 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 3.2 assists on 50.3% shooting. His defensive versatility and ability to hit threes have made him a valuable piece for the Hornets, a team still in the process of finding its footing after missing the playoffs again last season.

Williams could be a prime candidate for a midseason trade. The Hornets are focusing on building around LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller, and while Williams has proven his worth, his $13.7 million per year contract through 2027 makes him a potential asset in trade talks. His defensive abilities and three-point shooting have already attracted interest from playoff-bound teams looking for a player with his skill set.

If the Hornets don’t see significant progress this season, they could consider moving Williams to acquire younger talent or future draft picks. Teams that need a defensive-minded, versatile forward who can also stretch the floor will likely keep a close eye on Williams as the trade deadline approaches.

Chicago Bulls – Lonzo Ball

Lonzo Ball, once a key player for the Bulls, remains a wildcard heading into the 2024-25 season. Ball hasn’t played since January 2022 due to severe knee injuries, but he’s picked up his $21.4 million player option for this season, making him an expiring contract. The Bulls are hopeful he can return to action, but his long absence has created significant uncertainty about his future.

While stars like Zach LaVine and Nikola Vucevic are harder to move due to their large contracts, Ball’s expiring deal could be appealing to teams if he manages to return and show he can still contribute on the court. His expiring contract, combined with his previous two-way impact, makes him a trade candidate, especially for teams looking to add veteran guard depth or salary flexibility. As the Bulls progress toward a rebuild, moving Ball could help them gain assets or clear cap space for the future.

Cleveland Cavaliers – Jarrett Allen

Jarrett Allen is one of the key pieces for the Cavaliers, but he’s also the most likely player to get traded this season. Even though he averaged 16.5 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks in 2023-24, Cleveland’s offense struggled in key moments, especially during the playoffs. The team might look to shake things up, and Allen’s departure could give Evan Mobley more freedom to expand his game.

Allen’s contract is pretty manageable ($91 million over three years), making him a valuable trade chip if Cleveland wants to boost its scoring and add perimeter shooting. If the Cavs continue to struggle offensively by midseason, Allen could be moved for a player that better complements Darius Garland and Donovan Mitchell’s playstyle.

Dallas Mavericks – Daniel Gafford

Daniel Gafford was a solid addition for the Mavericks after they acquired him during the 2024 trade deadline. He put up decent numbers, averaging 11.0 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks per game over 74 contests. His rim protection and rebounding helped stabilize the Mavericks’ interior defense, an area they struggled with before his arrival. But as we head into the 2024-25 season, Gafford could find himself on the trade block.

The reason? Dereck Lively. Lively is the Mavericks’ young center of the future and is expected to take over the starting role, which makes Gafford somewhat redundant. Gafford is on a reasonable contract and still has value as a rim protector, which makes him an appealing trade piece for Dallas. If the Mavericks need to make midseason moves to add shooting or depth on the wings, Gafford’s expendability could make him the most likely candidate to be moved.

Denver Nuggets – Aaron Gordon

Aaron Gordon is a likely mid-season trade candidate for the Nuggets in 2024, primarily due to his contract situation. He’s eligible for a four-year extension worth $149.5 million, but if a deal can’t be reached, he may test free agency by opting out of his $22.8 million player option for 2025-26. This makes him a valuable trade piece for the Nuggets, especially as the team looks to navigate their salary cap issues after losing key players like Bruce Brown or Kentavious Caldwell-Pope.

In the 2023-24 season, Gordon put up 13.9 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game, shooting an efficient 55.6% from the field. His versatility on both ends of the court, particularly his defensive skills and ability to guard multiple positions, makes him an attractive asset for teams looking to boost their playoff chances. Given the Nuggets’ financial pressures and need to stay competitive in the tough Western Conference, Gordon could be on the move if the right offer comes along.

Detroit Pistons – Isaiah Stewart

The Pistons’ frontcourt is starting to look crowded, which puts Isaiah Stewart in a tough spot as the 2024-25 season begins. With Jalen Duren securing the starting center position and Paul Reed added to the roster, Stewart has found himself slipping down the depth chart. The team is clearly building around younger, more athletic players, making Stewart a prime trade candidate if Detroit decides to shake things up mid-season.

Last season, Stewart averaged 10.9 points, 6.6 rebounds, and showed a significant improvement in his shooting, hitting 38.3% from beyond the arc. His versatility as a big who can stretch the floor and play both power forward and center makes him appealing to teams needing frontcourt depth. With a manageable contract through 2027-28, Stewart could be a valuable piece for teams looking for a strong two-way player.

Golden State Warriors – Moses Moody

Moses Moody looks like a strong trade candidate for the Warriors this season. Despite showing potential since being drafted, Moody’s role with the Dubs has been inconsistent. As the 2024-25 season approaches, Moody is facing uncertainty with his contract, as he’s eligible for an extension but hasn’t reached an agreement yet. The Warriors have reportedly had “positive conversations” about his future, but if a deal isn’t struck by October 21, Moody could find himself in restricted free agency after this season.

Moody’s been mentioned in trade talks before, and with the Warriors always looking to upgrade their roster, he could be included in a package to land a more established player. The team tried to involve him in a deal for Lauri Markkanen during the offseason, but it didn’t pan out. If Moody doesn’t get consistent minutes in Steve Kerr’s rotation, it’s possible the Warriors look to trade him mid-season to get a win-now piece while he’s still a valuable young asset.

With his rookie contract set to expire and the Warriors balancing their veteran core with young talent, Moody’s future with the team is still up in the air.

Houston Rockets – Dillon Brooks

Dillon Brooks enters the 2024-25 season as a key defensive piece for the Rockets, but his name could surface in trade rumors. Brooks, acquired in 2023 with a four-year, $86 million contract, brings defensive toughness, but his streaky offensive output (12.7 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.7 assists last season) has been inconsistent.

The Rockets are looking to continue their rebuild around young talent like Jalen Green and Alperen Sengun, and Brooks’ large contract might make him expendable if the team seeks an offensive upgrade. His defensive prowess remains attractive, especially to playoff-bound teams needing a strong wing defender.

Brooks has always been a fiery presence on the court, but if the Rockets struggle to gain momentum, they could explore trading him for a more consistent scorer. His contract and reputation as an elite defender make him a prime candidate for mid-season moves, particularly if the team wants to build around its younger core.

Indiana Pacers – Obi Toppin

Obi Toppin stands out as a possible trade candidate for the Pacers this season, mainly because of their loaded frontcourt. The addition of Pascal Siakam and the development of Jarace Walker are pushing Toppin down the pecking order. He’s played well since joining the Pacers from the Knicks, but the team has younger, cheaper options they’re likely more focused on.

Toppin’s contract is another reason he’s a prime candidate. The Pacers signed him to a four-year, $60 million deal in 2024, making him a trade asset for teams looking for a forward with offensive versatility. He averaged 10.3 points, 3.9 rebounds, and shot 57.3% from the field in the 2023-24 season, showing he can contribute, but his fit in the rotation is becoming less clear.

With the Pacers needing to balance their roster and stay flexible, Toppin’s expiring deal could help them make moves during the season. Other teams looking for an athletic forward might be interested in his skills, making him a likely trade piece if the Pacers decide to adjust their roster further.

Los Angeles Clippers – James Harden

James Harden is shaping up to be a potential trade candidate for the Clippers this season. With Paul George leaving in free agency and Kawhi Leonard’s injury issues, Harden’s role has expanded beyond what was initially expected when he re-signed for two years at $70 million. Harden, now 35, is being asked to carry more of the offensive load and return to a ball-dominant role similar to his Rockets days.

In the 2023-24 season, Harden averaged 16.6 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 8.5 assists per game, solid numbers but a drop-off from his peak as a top scorer. The Clippers need him to step up, but with his contract situation—he has a player option for next season—and his age, it’s easy to see why he could be traded if things don’t go as planned.

Given his experience and ability to still run an offense, teams in need of a veteran guard for a playoff push might come calling, like the Houston Rockets. If the Clippers struggle early in the season or need to adjust their roster, Harden could find himself on the move.

Los Angeles Lakers – D’Angelo Russell

The Lakers face a tough decision with D’Angelo Russell as the 2024-25 season gets underway. After opting into his $18.7 million player option, Russell is a prime trade candidate, especially since the Lakers have been exploring deals since the offseason. His expiring contract makes him a valuable asset if the team decides to shake things up during the season.

Last season, Russell posted solid numbers with 18.0 points, 6.1 assists, and 41.5% from three during the regular season. But his inconsistency in the playoffs—where his scoring dropped—has sparked questions about his fit with a team chasing a title.

The rumors heated up over the summer, with reports that the Lakers had been shopping Russell and exploring potential trade scenarios. While JJ Redick has given him a vote of confidence heading into the season, it doesn’t guarantee his future with the team. If Russell doesn’t show more stability in key moments, or if the right trade offer comes along, the Lakers could move him mid-season to bolster their playoff hopes.

Memphis Grizzlies – Marcus Smart

Marcus Smart is shaping up to be a key trade piece for the Grizzlies. After a frustrating 2023-24 season where injuries limited him to just 20 games, Smart still averaged 14 points, 4.5 assists, and 2.1 steals. His veteran leadership and defensive skills have been valuable, but the Grizzlies are a young team focused on building around their core of Ja Morant, Jaren Jackson Jr., and Desmond Bane.

The Grizzlies could trade Smart to acquire more young talent or future draft picks that better align with their timeline. Multiple teams, including the Bucks and Lakers, have shown interest in adding Smart for a playoff push. Trading him would give the Grizzlies the chance to stay competitive while planning for future success.

Miami Heat – Tyler Herro

Tyler Herro is one of the top trade candidates for the Heat as they head into the 2024-25 season. After a tough 2023-24 season where he was limited to just 42 games due to injuries, Herro still put up solid numbers, averaging 20.1 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game. Even though he’s been productive, the Heat have been open to trading him, especially after missing out on a blockbuster trade for Damian Lillard.

Herro has worked hard in the offseason, adding muscle to improve his durability, and has said he’s willing to do whatever the team needs, even if it means coming off the bench. The Heat see Herro as a key asset in potential trade scenarios, as his scoring and shooting make him attractive to other teams.

The Heat have already explored moving Herro to upgrade their roster around Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo, with teams like the Jazz and Nets reportedly interested. If the Heat want to bring in a high-impact player mid-season, Herro could be the key to making that happen.

Milwaukee Bucks – Brook Lopez

The Bucks are facing an interesting situation with Brook Lopez heading into the 2024-25 season. He’s in the final year of his two-year, $48 million deal, earning $23 million this season. At 36 years old, Lopez remains a crucial part of the team, both as a defensive anchor and a floor-spacer on offense. He was key to their 2021 championship run and continues to make a big impact, finishing second in Defensive Player of the Year voting in 2023.

There were trade rumors about Lopez over the summer, with some suggesting the Bucks might move him to address their financial constraints or bring in younger talent. Yet, the Bucks’ front office has been clear that they have “zero intentions” of trading Lopez, calling him “core” to the team’s success. Even with interest from around the league, Milwaukee has shown no signs of actively shopping him.

Lopez’s future with the Bucks might depend on how the season unfolds. If the team feels they need to shake things up for a deeper playoff push, his expiring contract could be valuable in a potential trade. But for now, the Bucks seem committed to keeping him as their starting center, especially given his elite defense and chemistry with stars like Giannis Antetokounmpo.

Minnesota Timberwolves – Julius Randle

The Timberwolves made a bold move by trading Karl-Anthony Towns to the Knicks, bringing in Julius Randle as the new power forward for the 2024-25 season. Randle averaged 24.0 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game with the Knicks last season. While he’s expected to contribute right away, there’s concern about how well Randle will fit in with the Timberwolves‘ system and alongside players like Anthony Edwards and Rudy Gobert.

Head coach Chris Finch praised Randle’s work ethic and said he’s excited to see how he fits into the team. However, if Randle doesn’t adapt well or the team struggles, the Timberwolves might look to make adjustments at the trade deadline. Trading Randle could bring in younger assets or players who are a better fit. Given that Randle has a player option for the 2025-26 season, the Timberwolves might consider moving him sooner rather than later if things don’t click.

New Orleans Pelicans – Brandon Ingram

Brandon Ingram could be the Pelicans‘ biggest trade piece this season. With his contract expiring in 2025 and no extension signed, the team is exploring options to move him before potentially losing him for nothing. Ingram put up solid numbers last season, averaging 20.8 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 5.7 assists, but injuries and inconsistent performance in key moments have raised questions about his long-term fit.

The Pelicans are building around Zion Williamson and their younger core, and moving Ingram could help them retool for the future while avoiding any uncertainty regarding his contract status. If Ingram doesn’t fit seamlessly with the team’s future plans, the Pelicans might make a deal before the trade deadline to maximize his value.

New York Knicks – Mitchell Robinson

Mitchell Robinson is becoming a key trade candidate for the Knicks as they shift their roster following the Karl-Anthony Towns trade. Robinson, who has been the Knicks’ longest-tenured player, is now facing uncertainty with Towns taking over as the team’s starting center. Last season, Robinson averaged 5.6 points and 8.5 rebounds across 31 games, and while his defensive abilities—like shot-blocking and rebounding—remain elite, the addition of Towns has raised questions about his role moving forward.

Robinson’s current contract, worth $60 million over four years, makes him an attractive asset for teams needing a defensive anchor. The Knicks are fielding trade calls for Robinson, especially since his injury history has kept him from consistently contributing. If the Knicks feel they can secure more depth or future assets, Robinson could be moved before the trade deadline. With teams reportedly showing interest, the Knicks might look to make a move if they can get valuable returns.

Oklahoma City Thunder – Luguentz Dort

The Thunder have a stacked roster heading into the 2024-25 season, and while it’s unlikely they make any big trades, Luguentz Dort could be the one to watch. With Alex Caruso now in the mix, Dort’s role might shift a bit. He’s been a lockdown defender for the Thunder, and last season he averaged 10.9 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 1.4 assists over 79 games.

Dort’s defense is key, but if the Thunder want to tweak the roster or need more offensive firepower, they might consider trading him. His contract is reasonable, and his defensive reputation makes him a valuable asset for teams in need of a stopper. While there’s no rush to move Dort, he could be part of a trade package if the right deal comes along mid-season. For now, he’s staying put, but his name could come up if the Thunder look to fine-tune their lineup.

Orlando Magic – Cole Anthony

The Orlando Magic could find a trade candidate in Cole Anthony, who signed a three-year, $39 million extension right before the 2023-24 season kicked off. Last season, Anthony played 81 games, averaging 11.6 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 2.9 assists off the bench.

The Magic have a loaded backcourt with players like Jalen Suggs, Anthony Black, and new addition Kentavious Caldwell-Pope all competing for minutes, which could push Anthony to the trade block if they decide to balance their roster. While he’s been a solid contributor, the team might explore trade options depending on how the season unfolds.

There’s already been some speculation about his future, especially as the Magic are looking to make a stronger playoff push than last year’s. If the Magic want to make a mid-season move for more depth or to address other areas, Anthony could be an option to trade for assets.

Philadelphia 76ers – Caleb Martin

Caleb Martin could be an interesting trade piece for the 76ers this season. After signing a four-year, $32 million deal, he’s coming off a solid season where he averaged 9.6 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 1.6 assists across 79 games for the Heat. The 76ers have built their roster around Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, and newly signed Paul George, and Martin’s role might shift depending on the team’s performance.

The Sixers could move Martin if they feel they need more depth or shooting to complement their star trio. His contract is flexible, and teams around the league value his two-way skills. With the team looking to compete for a title, Martin could be packaged in a mid-season trade if the 76ers feel they need to tweak their lineup.

While other players like KJ Martin could also be considered for trades, Caleb Martin stands out due to his bigger interest in the market, making him a more appealing trade asset if the team decides to make adjustments.

Phoenix Suns – Jusuf Nurkic

Jusuf Nurkic, who joined the Suns in the deal that sent Deandre Ayton to Portland, enters the 2024-25 season as a potential trade piece. He’s still owed $37.5 million over the next two years, making him one of the more likely candidates for a trade if the Suns decide to make a move. Nurkic averaged 10.9 points, 11.0 rebounds, and 4.0 assists last season, but the Suns might look for an upgrade at center, especially given their championship ambitions with Kevin Durant and Devin Booker.

Nurkic’s ability to stay healthy is also a question mark, and while he’s expected to be a key piece for the Suns, they might move him if the right deal comes along. The Suns’ limited cap space and desire to remain competitive make him one of the top trade candidates if they want to adjust their roster during the season.

Portland Trail Blazers – Jerami Grant

Jerami Grant finds himself as one of the most talked-about trade pieces for the Trail Blazers this season. After signing a five-year, $160 million extension before the 2023-24 season, Grant put up 21.0 points and 3.5 rebounds last year. With the Blazers rebuilding around young talent like Scoot Henderson, Grant’s veteran status makes him an odd fit for their long-term vision.

Several teams, including the Lakers and Mavericks, have been linked to Grant, with the Blazers asking for multiple first-round picks in any potential trade. While they aren’t in a rush to move him, it’s clear the Blazers are willing to explore options. Grant’s talent fits better with a contending team, but the Blazers are waiting for the right offer.

The Blazers’ focus on the future makes him a logical trade candidate as they continue building through younger players and potential draft picks. If the right offer comes along before the deadline, the Trail Blazers could make a move to gain assets and further develop their new core.

Sacramento Kings – Kevin Huerter

Kevin Huerter is looking like a potential trade piece for the Kings this season. After a down year where he averaged 10.2 points, 3.3 rebounds, and struggled defensively, his spot on the roster is shaky. With DeMar DeRozan now in the fold and the team focusing more on defense, Huerter could be the odd man out.

His four-year, $65 million contract makes him an attractive trade asset for teams needing shooting and floor spacing. The Kings are pushing for a deep playoff run, so moving Huerter to strengthen their defense is on the table. Teams looking for offense might find him appealing as trade talks heat up mid-season.

San Antonio Spurs – Keldon Johnson

The Spurs are entering the 2024-25 season focused on their young core, especially Victor Wembanyama, which makes Keldon Johnson a potential trade candidate. Last season, Johnson averaged 15.7 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 2.8 assists over 69 games, but with the team moving towards a youth-driven rebuild, Johnson’s long-term fit is in question.

Johnson is currently on a four-year, $74 million contract signed in 2022. While he’s been a solid contributor, the Spurs could look to move him for defensive depth or future assets that better fit their timeline around Wembanyama and rising talents like Devin Vassell and Jeremy Sochan. With his scoring ability and contract, Johnson is one of the more valuable trade assets the Spurs could use if they decide to make a mid-season move.

Several teams could be interested in Johnson’s two-way potential, making him a player to watch as trade talks heat up throughout the season. If the Spurs are focused on fully committing to their youth movement, moving Johnson could bring in the kind of pieces they need for a long-term rebuild.

Toronto Raptors – Bruce Brown

Bruce Brown is set to be the top trade candidate for the Raptors this season. The team exercised his $23 million option, but it’s widely believed this move was made to facilitate a mid-season trade. Brown’s versatility—solid defense, secondary ball handling, and his championship experience—makes him a strong fit for playoff contenders. Last season, Brown averaged 9.6 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 2.7 assists over 34 games.

The Raptors are focused on rebuilding around their young core and don’t need Brown long-term. Teams like the Lakers, Bucks, and Knicks have shown interest in trading for him, and with his expiring contract, Brown could easily be moved for draft picks or young assets.

As the Raptors prioritize their future, Brown’s trade seems inevitable. His value is high for teams looking to make a deep playoff run, so he’s expected to be one of the bigger trade pieces this season.

Utah Jazz – Jordan Clarkson

Jordan Clarkson has been a key player for the Jazz, but his trade value has been a hot topic this offseason. Clarkson is entering the final year of his contract, which pays him $23.5 million this season, making him a prime candidate for a mid-season trade. He averaged 17.1 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 5.0 assists last year, but his shooting efficiency dropped, especially from beyond the arc (29.4%). The Jazz are currently in a rebuild, and Clarkson’s role on the team has become less clear as they look to prioritize younger talent like Lauri Markkanen and Collin Sexton.

Reports suggest Clarkson hasn’t drawn as much trade interest as expected during the offseason, but that could change as the season progresses and teams start looking for experienced scorers to add to their playoff rotations. Clarkson’s ability to come off the bench and provide instant offense still makes him valuable, particularly for contenders in need of a sixth-man type of player.

Although no immediate trade seems imminent, the Jazz are still reportedly open to moving him if the right deal comes along, likely seeking draft picks or young players in return to further support their long-term goals. If Clarkson doesn’t find a new team by the trade deadline, he might end up finishing the season in Utah, but the front office appears willing to listen to offers.

Washington Wizards – Jonas Valanciunas

The Wizards acquired Jonas Valanciunas this offseason through a sign-and-trade deal with the Pelicans, locking him in with a three-year, $30 million contract. While this move strengthens their roster, it seems like Valanciunas was brought in with the clear intention of being traded later in the season. Many insiders believe his signing was a strategic move to get a valuable trade asset, similar to how rebuilding teams sign veterans to eventually flip them for future assets.

Valanciunas, 32, remains a productive center, averaging 12.2 points and 8.8 rebounds per game last season. Even with solid numbers, the Wizards are in full rebuild mode, focusing on younger talent, and a veteran like Valanciunas doesn’t quite fit their long-term plans. He is seen as a strong trade candidate for teams looking for a reliable big man, with the Lakers and Knicks among the rumored suitors.

With the Wizards expected to be more active in trades as the season progresses, Valanciunas will likely generate interest from contenders seeking size, rebounding, and experience in the playoffs.