The 2024-25 season hasn’t yet started, but the trade rumor mill is already heating up. Zach LaVine and Nikola Vucevic are key names to watch from the Chicago Bulls. If the team struggles early on, the Bulls might be forced to break up their core, with LaVine’s contract being particularly difficult to move unless a desperate team makes a big offer.
Trae Young is another player to keep an eye on. If the Atlanta Hawks don’t show significant progress, rumors about trading their star point guard could intensify. Over at the Clippers, James Harden’s fit with the team remains under scrutiny, and if things go south, they also might consider making another move. This season could see major trades, and these players are at the center of it all.
1. James Harden
James Harden re-signed with the Clippers in the offseason on a two-year, $70 million deal. His return comes after a solid season of 16.6 points, 8.5 assists, and 5.1 rebounds, but the Clippers face significant challenges following the departure of Paul George to the 76ers. Harden and Kawhi Leonard are now tasked with leading the team, but with George gone and Leonard’s injury history, the Clippers’ success is far from guaranteed.
Harden’s future with the Clippers isn’t set in stone. He holds a player option for the second year of his deal, meaning if things go south for the Clippers, trade rumors could ramp up. If the team struggles early, Harden might be one of the first names in trade talks, especially given his value as an elite playmaker.
There’s a lot riding on this season. If Leonard continues to deal with injuries or the Clippers struggle to stay competitive in the Western Conference, management could be forced to consider moving Harden to shake things up. The Clippers are also dealing with financial pressures, and offloading Harden’s contract could provide relief under the league’s new collective bargaining rules.
The biggest question is whether Harden can take on a more central role in the Clippers’ offense now that George is gone. His playmaking will be vital, but without enough scoring support from Leonard and others, the Clippers might fall short. If they do, Harden could quickly find himself on the trade block again, especially since his contract includes a trade kicker that gives him some leverage.
For now, Harden’s return to the Clippers signals optimism, but his stay could be short if the team fails to deliver. The Clippers are in win-now mode, but any early struggles might force them to rethink their approach, and Harden’s name could once again surface in trade rumors as the season progresses.
2. Kyle Kuzma
Kyle Kuzma has been one of the most talked-about trade targets as we enter the 2024-25 season. Although he re-signed with the Washington Wizards last offseason on a four-year deal worth $90 million in 2023, Kuzma’s name continues to pop up in trade rumors due to the Wizards’ rebuilding situation. His contract, which decreases in value each year, makes him an appealing target for teams looking to add scoring without breaking the bank.
Kuzma averaged 22.2 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 4.2 assists last season, making him a highly productive player on a rebuilding team. Given the Wizards’ current trajectory, it seems more likely than ever that Kuzma could be moved, especially since the Wizards are looking to collect assets and build for the future. His skillset as a versatile forward who can shoot and create his own shot makes him a hot commodity, particularly for teams looking to make a playoff push.
The Miami Heat have been strongly linked to Kuzma, as they are looking to bolster their roster around Jimmy Butler. The Heat have had issues with depth, and Kuzma could fit perfectly in their system as a secondary scorer. However, Miami would likely have to part with players like Duncan Robinson or Nikola Jovic to make a deal happen, along with future draft picks.
Other teams that have been connected to Kuzma include the Golden State Warriors and Sacramento Kings. Both teams could use his scoring punch to complement their current cores, though any trade would likely involve giving up key rotation players.
If the Wizards start the season poorly, the likelihood of a Kuzma trade will only increase. The team is clearly in rebuilding mode, and Kuzma’s trade value is at its peak right now. Teams will be monitoring the situation closely, and by the trade deadline, it wouldn’t be surprising to see Kuzma suiting up for a contender.
3. Zach LaVine
Zach LaVine remains one of the most intriguing trade candidates heading into the 2024-25 season. Despite being a two-time All-Star and still in his prime at 29, the Bulls have been open to moving him due to their ongoing struggles and the financial burden of his massive contract. LaVine is owed $138 million over the next three seasons, which includes a hefty $49 million player option for the 2026-27 season. This has made finding a trade partner challenging, as teams are cautious about committing to his deal.
Last season, LaVine was limited to just 25 games due to a foot injury that required surgery. This injury and the Bulls’ failure to make the playoffs have kept his name in trade discussions for over a year. LaVine has returned to training camp this offseason, and the Bulls are still actively shopping him, though they have yet to find a suitable offer.
Several teams have been linked to LaVine, including the Los Angeles Lakers, who could be looking to add another scorer to complement LeBron James and Anthony Davis. The Lakers have been mentioned as a potential destination for LaVine, as they have the contracts necessary to match his salary and the desire to make another deep playoff run. The question is whether they are willing to part with key assets like D’Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves, or Rui Hachimura to get a deal done.
The Miami Heat are also considered a possible suitor, especially with their tendency to target stars to pair with Jimmy Butler. Yet, the Heat are also wary of taking on LaVine’s contract unless they can offload some of their own hefty deals in return. Other teams rumored to have shown interest in LaVine include the Golden State Warriors, who have recently retooled their roster but may still be looking to add more firepower for another title run.
For now, LaVine is expected to start the season with the Bulls. Still, if Chicago struggles early or if a team becomes desperate for additional scoring, his name could quickly rise back into serious trade discussions. The Bulls are in a tough spot, looking to balance a rebuild while still trying to maximize the value they can get in return for their star guard.
4. Bruce Brown
Bruce Brown’s situation with the Toronto Raptors is currently one of the most watched trade stories of the offseason. After being traded from the Pacers as part of the deal that sent Pascal Siakam to Indiana, Brown has been on the Raptors’ roster, but his future with the team seems uncertain. the Raptors exercised Brown’s $23 million team option for the 2024-25 season, making him an attractive trade asset, especially due to his expiring contract.
Brown, who played a pivotal role in the Denver Nuggets’ 2023 championship run, has seen his stock rise as a defensive specialist and versatile wing. Yet, his short stint with the Raptors has been less impactful, as he struggled to find his rhythm, averaging 9.6 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 2.7 assists in his 34 games in Toronto. This has only fueled trade rumors, with reports suggesting that the Raptors are actively looking to move him before the season gets too deep.
Several teams were interested in Brown’s services, with the Los Angeles Lakers and Cleveland Cavaliers being two of the most mentioned destinations. The Lakers have been linked to Brown due to their desire to improve their defense around LeBron James and Anthony Davis, and his ability to guard multiple positions makes him a perfect fit. Meanwhile, the Cavaliers, who need a strong wing defender to boost their playoff chances, have also been identified as a potential landing spot.
The Raptors are expected to pull the trigger on a deal sooner rather than later, as Brown’s expiring contract makes him a valuable trade chip for teams looking to add depth without a long-term commitment. Whether he lands with a contender or becomes part of a rebuilding project, Brown is almost certainly going to find himself on a new team before the season ends.
In summary, it’s only a matter of time before Bruce Brown is traded, and his defensive prowess will make him a valuable addition wherever he ends up. Keep an eye on teams like the Lakers and Cavaliers, who seem eager to make moves ahead of the trade deadline.
5. Nikola Vucevic
Nikola Vucevic has been part of trade rumors throughout the 2024 offseason as the Chicago Bulls continue to consider a potential rebuild. The team is in transition after moving on from DeMar DeRozan and Alex Caruso, and while Zach LaVine remains a prominent trade candidate, it’s Vucevic who might be easier to move given his smaller contract and value as a big man. Vucevic is entering the second year of a two-year, $41 million deal and still produces at a high level, averaging 18.0 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 3.3 assists last season.
Vucevic has been with the Bulls since 2021 and has expressed a desire to continue playing for several more years, but he’s also realistic about the business side of the NBA. He understands that trade talks are part of the game, especially given the Bulls’ struggles. Chicago missed the playoffs again last season, and with the team not meeting expectations, changes are bound to happen.
There have been discussions about potential landing spots for Vucevic, with the Los Angeles Lakers being a prominent name mentioned too. The Lakers are in need of a reliable center to pair with Anthony Davis, and Vucevic’s ability to stretch the floor while being a solid rebounder makes him an intriguing option. Still, concerns about his age (33) and declining shooting efficiency have made teams hesitant to give up significant assets for him.
Another team reportedly interested in Vucevic is the New York Knicks, who have a need for center depth after losing Isaiah Hartenstein in free agency. A potential swap for Jusuf Nurkic with the Phoenix Suns was also reportedly floated as a possibility.
As the Bulls navigate this transitional phase, Vucevic’s future with the team remains uncertain. If Chicago struggles to start the season, it wouldn’t be surprising to see him traded to a contender or a team looking for a veteran presence in the frontcourt.
6. Cam Johnson
Cam Johnson remains one of the most intriguing trade pieces heading into the 2024-25 season. After signing a four-year, $90 million extension with the Brooklyn Nets in 2023, his name has been at the center of trade rumors due to the team’s rebuild. Johnson averaged 13.4 points and shot 39.1% from three last season, making him a valuable asset for teams looking for a reliable stretch-four.
The Nets have entered a clear rebuilding phase after trading Mikal Bridges to the New York Knicks, signaling their intent to acquire draft picks and young talent. While they see Johnson as a trade chip, Brooklyn is not looking to part with him easily. His shooting and offensive versatility are highly valued across the league, and several teams, including the Lakers and Magic, have expressed interest. However, the Nets have maintained a high asking price, aware of Johnson’s value as a floor-spacing forward.
Johnson’s defense, while not elite, complements his offensive strengths. The Nets’ front office is playing the long game, waiting for the right offer that fits their rebuilding timeline. Should Brooklyn’s season falter, it’s likely Johnson could be moved, especially if a contender becomes willing to meet Brooklyn’s demands.
At just 28, Johnson still has plenty of years ahead of him, making him an attractive option for teams in need of a boost in perimeter shooting. If a trade happens, it would likely involve a significant package of draft picks or promising young players that could help Brooklyn accelerate their rebuild. As the season progresses, Johnson’s name will be one to watch as trade talks intensify.
7. Deandre Ayton
Deandre Ayton’s future with the Portland Trail Blazers has become increasingly uncertain after the team drafted Donovan Clingan with the 7th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft. Ayton was originally brought to Portland in a trade from the Phoenix Suns, and the Blazers saw him as a long-term centerpiece. However, Clingan’s arrival has put Ayton’s role in question, sparking rumors that the team may look to trade him even before the season gains momentum.
Ayton averaged 16.7 points and 11.1 rebounds last season, but his performance overall was unimpressive. The Blazers’ recent additions, including Robert Williams III and now Clingan, have created a crowded frontcourt, making Ayton potentially expendable. Clingan, a 7’2″ NCAA champion, is considered the future at center for the Blazers, and Ayton’s presence may limit the young prospect’s development.
Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups has hinted at experimenting with a twin-towers lineup, pairing Ayton with Clingan, but the effectiveness of that approach remains to be seen. Billups has also encouraged Ayton to expand his offensive game, particularly by developing a more consistent three-point shot, which could help him stay relevant in the team’s rotation. Still, with Clingan showing promise, the Blazers may prefer to give their new young center the primary role.
As the Blazers move deeper into their rebuild, Ayton has emerged as a trade candidate. Teams looking for a skilled big man could see him as a valuable addition, while the team may use this opportunity to acquire more assets to complement their young core of Scoot Henderson and Shaedon Sharpe. Whether the Blazers stick with Ayton or decide to move him, his situation will be closely watched as the season progresses.
8. Clint Capela
Clint Capela remains a key trade target as the Atlanta Hawks retool their roster heading into the 2024-25 season. With Capela entering the final year of his $22.3 million contract, and the team looking to elevate Onyeka Okongwu to a larger role, Capela could be on the move. He averaged 11.2 points and 10.6 rebounds last season, making him a valuable defensive presence for teams like the Golden State Warriors and New York Knicks, both of which need a rim protector and rebounder.
The Hawks, following their trade of Dejounte Murray, are in the midst of a roster shakeup, and Capela is expected to be part of those changes. His expiring contract provides flexibility for teams looking for playoff experience and defensive capabilities. The Warriors, in particular, have been linked to Capela as they seek to add size to their frontcourt to help complement their smaller lineup.
The team is taking its time with trade discussions, leveraging Capela’s steady production and expiring deal to maximize the return. They’re likely seeking young assets or future draft picks in exchange for the veteran big man. If the Hawks underperform early in the season, trade talks for Capela will likely intensify leading up to the deadline.
For now, the Hawks are keeping their options open, but Capela’s name will remain one to watch as the season progresses. Teams in need of rebounding and rim protection will continue to inquire, especially as the playoff picture takes shape.
9. Brandon Ingram
Brandon Ingram’s future with the New Orleans Pelicans has become increasingly uncertain following the team’s acquisition of Dejounte Murray this offseason. Ingram, who is entering the final year of his contract worth $36 million, has been the subject of ongoing trade rumors. Despite his solid production last season, where he averaged 20.8 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 5.7 assists across 64 games, the Pelicans are hesitant to offer him a max contract extension, especially given their financial commitments to other players like Zion Williamson and CJ McCollum.
The addition of Murray has created a new dynamic in New Orleans’ backcourt, providing the team with a stronger option for late-game shot creation. However, this move also raises questions about Ingram’s long-term fit, as the team seems more committed to building around Zion and Murray. Ingram’s absence from a recent minicamp further fueled speculation about his dissatisfaction with the team and possible trade talks.
While several teams have shown interest in Ingram, his contract situation complicates potential trades. For instance, the Sacramento Kings reportedly considered a move for him but backed off due to concerns about his fit and the high cost of his next contract, which could exceed $50 million annually.
Ingram’s standing with the Pelicans will be a key storyline this season. If the team starts slowly or faces challenges incorporating their new pieces, trade talks around Ingram could escalate, with multiple teams looking to acquire his scoring ability before he hits free agency next summer.
10. Kevin Huerter
Kevin Huerter’s future with the Kings has become uncertain following a challenging 2023-24 season where he averaged 10.2 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 2.6 assists over 64 games. Huerter struggled with consistency throughout the year, especially following a shoulder surgery in March that impacted his shooting form and playing time. As a result, the Kings could consider moving him to make room for newly acquired DeMar DeRozan and the re-signed Malik Monk, both of whom are expected to take on major roles, in case the next season starts as badly as the last one.
Huerter’s role in Sacramento has become more unclear, with Monk firmly in place as the team’s primary shooting guard off the bench and DeRozan likely to take up significant minutes at the wing position. As the Kings aim to strengthen their defensive presence, Huerter’s deficiencies on that end make him an expendable asset.
The Kings are reportedly seeking a defensive wing in exchange for Huerter, whose remaining two-year, $34.8 million contract makes him a tradeable piece. Teams in need of floor spacing should express interest, seeing Huerter as a valuable shooter to help bolster their offensive depth.
Any potential trade involving Huerter will likely hinge on his ability to stay healthy and regain his shooting form, as teams will want to see how he performs before making a move. The Kings, however, are expected to pull the trigger if the right deal presents itself.
