As the 2024 NBA Trade Deadline approaches on February 8th, the anticipation and speculation surrounding potential player movements intensify as we prepare for a busy week ahead. NBA franchises are constantly evaluating their rosters, seeking opportunities to improve and address their team’s needs. Title contenders such as the Los Angeles Lakers, Golden State Warriors, and Philadelphia 76ers might look to make massive moves while rebuilding sides might undergo a fire sale.
- 1. Donovan Mitchell
- 2. Zach LaVine
- 3. Lauri Markkanen
- 4. Klay Thompson
- 5. DeMar DeRozan
- 6. Dejounte Murray
- 7. Nikola Vucevic
- 8. Jerami Grant
- 9. Clint Capela
- 10. D’Angelo Russell
- 11. Andrew Wiggins
- 12. Miles Bridges
- 13. Bojan Bogdanovic
- 14. Jordan Clarkson
- 15. De’Andre Hunter
- 16. Buddy Hield
- 17. Rui Hachimura
- 18. Alex Caruso
- 19. Robert Covington
- 20. Malcolm Brogdon
A mix of NBA All-Stars, role players, and veterans will be on the trading block over the next couple of days. While it won’t be reasonable that every one of the below 20 players get traded, expect a heavy chunk of them to compete on new teams sooner rather than later.
1. Donovan Mitchell
2023-24 Statistics: 27.7 PPG, 5.5 RPG, 6.3 APG, 1.9 SPG, 0.4 BPG
Likely Destinations: New York Knicks, Philadelphia 76ers
Donovan Mitchell’s future in Cleveland appears uncertain, fueled by his reported desire to leave the team. With the Cavaliers unlikely to reach the Eastern Conference Finals this season, Mitchell may be seeking new opportunities as he is a free agent after next season. Not many superstar players prefer living in Ohio over other cities, without disrespect to the state.
The allure of a big market like New York or the prospect of joining forces with MVP frontrunner Joel Embiid (36.0 PPG and 11.4 RPG) and likely All-Star Tyrese Maxey (25.7 PPG) to form a superteam in Philadelphia could be enticing for the dynamic guard, adding an intriguing layer to the ongoing trade speculations surrounding him. Mitchell belongs in a major market, and competing alongside and with star players is the best way for him to solidify his future by requesting a trade from the Cavaliers. If there is the best destination for Mitchell, it has to be with the Knicks, because the superteam he could create will be historical in New York.
2. Zach LaVine
2023-24 Statistics: 19.5 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 3.9 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.3 BPG
Likely Destinations: Philadelphia 76ers, Los Angeles Lakers
Zach LaVine finds himself on the trading block, signaling a potential departure from the Chicago Bulls in the near future. Recognized as an elite scorer and an All-Star-caliber player nailing 38.2% of his threes over his career, LaVine may be best suited as a second or third option on a title-contending team. The 76ers, who are looking like a strong team and want to win a title with Embiid leading the way, could be a viable destination for LaVine, offering him a chance to contribute to a contending squad and be the replacement for James Harden.
The Los Angeles Lakers are also reportedly interested in acquiring LaVine to form a formidable Big 3 alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis, adding another layer of intrigue to his potential trade scenarios. The Bulls seem to be in no rush, as the shooting guard is under contract until the 2025-26 season and they want to rebuild immediately. So far, the franchise has held steady on any LaVine trades but that will likely change before the February trade deadline.
3. Lauri Markkanen
2023-24 Statistics: 23.7 PPG, 8.8 RPG, 1.9 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.6 BPG
Likely Destinations: Atlanta Hawks, Oklahoma City Thunder
Lauri Markkanen has emerged as the standout player for the Jazz this season, positioning himself as a strong candidate for a second consecutive All-Star appearance. His versatility in scoring (23.7 PPG on 40.0% 3-PT FG), defending, and rebounding makes him an enticing addition to a title-contending team. The Atlanta Hawks, in need of a new player to complement Trae Young, could benefit from Markkanen’s skill set, forming a promising little-big duo.
On the other hand, the Oklahoma City Thunder, known for valuing talented and character-driven players, could find Markkanen fitting seamlessly into their schemes, especially if there’s potential movement around Josh Giddey. Markkanen’s potential availability adds an interesting dynamic to trade discussions in the upcoming season because the Jazz want a haul of first-round picks and only teams willing to offer them can be in the mix for the All-Star forward.
4. Klay Thompson
2023-24 Statistics: 17.6 PPG, 3.4 RPG, 2.4 APG, 0.5 SPG, 0.5 BPG
Likely Destinations: Brooklyn Nets, Dallas Mavericks
Klay Thompson could be shopped by the Golden State Warriors because the team has been dropping in the standings as the weeks have gone by. The Warriors hold a poor 19-24 record and there are doubts they can ever recover their championship form. Every dynasty comes to an end and it seems that the time for the Warriors is up. Klay Thompson has been untouchable for his entire career, but that is no longer the case.
Thompson could be available and the Warriors are listening to offers. Beating their heads against the wall and hoping for the best is not the way for the franchise to get back on top, and they might need to rebuild while also listening to Stephen Curry’s wishes. Expect teams such as the Brooklyn Nets and Dallas Mavericks to be interested in Thompson because their star players need help.
5. DeMar DeRozan
2023-24 Statistics: 22.1 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 5.4 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.6 BPG
Likely Destinations: Los Angeles Lakers, New York Knicks
As the Chicago Bulls undergo a rebuilding phase, the potential trade of their 34-year-old All-Star, DeMar DeRozan, seems increasingly likely. Teams with win-now aspirations, such as the Lakers and Knicks, could view DeRozan as an immediate upgrade to their roster. Despite a slight dip in numbers from the previous season, DeRozan’s ability to create offense, act as a playmaker, and defend the wing remains valuable.
The prospect of forming a Big Three with the Lakers alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis or with the Knicks alongside Julius Randle and Jalen Brunson adds significant intrigue to the trade discussions surrounding DeRozan. Anticipate movement as he becomes a sought-after asset for teams eyeing postseason success before the February trade deadline. The Bulls want to blow up their roster soon, and they have until the 8th to get it done.
6. Dejounte Murray
2023-24 Statistics: 21.4 PPG, 5.0 RPG, 5.1 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.3 BPG
Likely Destinations: Los Angeles Lakers, Golden State Warriors
Dejounte Murray is one of the hottest commodities on the trade market right now because the Atlanta Hawks want to cash in on the All-Star guard. For reasons that include a poor team record, the Hawks have not found their best partner to superstar Trae Young. Obviously, the Lakers have been in the news when it comes to acquiring Murray.
Murray is excellent on both ends of the court and the Lakers could create a new Big Three before the trade deadline. Far more than any other star right now, Murray could be the most easily acquirable asset. If the Lakers cannot get the deal done, expect the Golden State Warriors to try and strike a deal for Murray because they need better guard play who can also help their 22nd-ranked defense.
7. Nikola Vucevic
2023-24 Statistics: 16.9 PPG, 10.5 RPG, 3.5 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.8 BPG
Likely Destinations: Memphis Grizzlies, Orlando Magic
As the Bulls embark on a rebuilding phase with multiple players potentially on the trade block, Nikola Vucevic emerges as a viable trade asset. A consistent double-double machine, Vucevic, though not an elite defender, brings a reliable scoring and rebounding presence to any team. With six consecutive seasons of posting double-doubles, the 33-year-old center still can make a significant impact for a new team in need of size.
The Grizzlies, seeking a replacement for the injured and injury-prone Steven Adams, could find Vucevic as an ideal solution. Similarly, the Orlando Magic, where Vucevic was a former All-Star in 2019, might consider bringing him back to elevate their playoff prospects, given their current position in the standings. Vucevic might even find a way to the Clippers, although it would be unlikely the Bulls are interested in Ivica Zubac and picks.
8. Jerami Grant
2023-24 Statistics: 21.3 PPG, 3.7 RPG, 2.5 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.8 BPG
Likely Destinations: Dallas Mavericks, Los Angeles Lakers
Despite the Trail Blazers’ rebuilding efforts, Jerami Grant has not been actively pursued for a trade yet. However, his win-now mentality and versatile skill set make him an appealing option for contending teams. Grant’s ability to space the floor, shooting 40.5% from three this season, coupled with his high-level defense, positions him as a valuable asset for teams with championship aspirations.
The Mavericks have been looking for a third piece to the roster for a while, and he can be the perfect third option behind Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving. Grant is a high-character player who plays hard, and the Mavericks could go all-in for him. The same can go for the Lakers who might go for Grant and other assets if their primary trade targets become unavailable for whatever reason.
9. Clint Capela
2023-24 Statistics: 11.3 PPG, 10.4 RPG, 1.0 APG, 0.6 SPG, 1.6 BPG
Likely Destinations: Dallas Mavericks, Memphis Grizzlies
Clint Capela has been a consistent presence in trade talks, particularly with the Dallas Mavericks, who seek rim protection and a lob-catcher to complement their dynamic duo of Doncic and Irving. Despite Dereck Lively II’s promising performances (9.2 PPG, 7.9 RPG), Capela’s experience and proven ability make him an attractive upgrade for the Mavericks because he has experience on a title-contender from his days with the Houston Rockets.
On the other hand, the Memphis Grizzlies may consider bringing Capela on board for center depth, especially with concerns surrounding Steven Adams and Brandon Clarke’s long-term health Capela’s shot-blocking prowess and rebounding acumen position him as a valuable asset for teams looking to shore up their frontcourt and the Hawks could kickstart their rebuild by trading their big man.
10. D’Angelo Russell
2023-24 Statistics: 17.3 PPG, 2.6 RPG, 6.1 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.5 BPG
Likely Destinations: Chicago Bulls, Atlanta Hawks
D’Angelo Russell’s scoring ability (17.3 PPG) and playmaking skills (6.1 APG) make him an attractive trade asset, especially with the Lakers potentially seeking a move for DeMar DeRozan or Zach LaVine. Despite Russell’s contributions and frustrations about it, the Lakers have viewed him as expendable given his inconsistencies in shooting and the desire for a more long-term solution at point guard.
The Chicago Bulls, amidst their rebuilding efforts, could be interested in Russell as they look to reshape their roster. Additionally, the Atlanta Hawks might look to ship Dejounte Murray to the Los Angeles Lakers and D’Angelo Russell could be the player they take back along with the 2029 first-round pick.
11. Andrew Wiggins
2023-24 Statistics: 12.3 PPG, 4.2 RPG, 1.6 APG, 0.4 SPG, 0.5 BPG
Likely Destinations: Chicago Bulls, Dallas Mavericks
Andrew Wiggins is another player by the Warriors who is on the trading block. He was the second-best player on the team during their 2022 championship run but his level has dropped exponentially since then. Averaging only 12.3 points on 31.0% from three, Wiggins needs to find a new team and the Warriors are trying to make that happen.
The Chicago Bulls might engage with the Warriors for Wiggins, potentially shipping their own stars out of town. The Bulls like athletic wings and Wiggins could resurrect his career with the franchise. Otherwise, the Mavericks could do their best to try to find their new third option and dangle everybody except Doncic and Irving on the trade table.
12. Miles Bridges
2023-24 Statistics: 20.9 PPG, 7.3 RPG, 3.1 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.5 BPG
Likely Destinations: Dallas Mavericks, Phoenix Suns
Dealing with off-court issues, Miles Bridges’ scoring prowess remains intact, evident in his 20.9 points per game and 35.3% three-point shooting. However, on a rebuilding Charlotte Hornets team with a 10-35 record, Bridges’ presence and offensive capabilities make him a player that they could look to capitalize on.
The Hornets have already traded Terry Rozier and Bridges could be next. The swingman does not belong on a rebuilding team and title contenders such as the Dallas Mavericks could be interested because their assets are limited and the Hornets might take whatever they can get. Otherwise, the Phoenix Suns could try to find another new starter for the lineup or bolster their bench with a new sixth man.
13. Bojan Bogdanovic
2023-24 Statistics: 20.4 PPG, 3.4 RPG, 2.6 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.1 BPG
Likely Destinations: Los Angeles Lakers, Minnesota Timberwolves
Bojan Bogdanovic is having a strong individual season, posting 20.4 points per game for the lowly Detroit Pistons. Bogdanovic does not belong on a tanking (or rebuilding) team because he is nearly 35 years old and can contribute on both ends right away. As a result, title-contending teams will be interested in the Bosnian.
Bogdanovic is shooting 41.0% from three, meaning he could elevate the Lakers’ offense. LeBron James and Anthony Davis need shooters and competitors on the wing, and Bojan meets that criteria. Otherwise, expect the Timberwolves to try to shore up their depth because they will need to rely on more than six or seven players in the postseason because they hold the number one seed in the West right now at 33-14.
14. Jordan Clarkson
2023-24 Statistics: 17.8 PPG, 3.5 RPG, 4.9 APG, 0.6 SPG, 0.1 BPG
Likely Destinations: Phoenix Suns, New York Knicks
Jordan Clarkson is a fire-cracker off the bench as he is averaging 17.8 points per game and even if he is shooting under 31% from three, he can come in and change the game with his confident scoring ability off the bench. The Utah Jazz could be rebuilding and that means Clarkson does not quite belong.
The Suns need bench play desperately and engaging in a trade for Clarkson could be the right move if they want to actually be a contender. The Knicks are another side that wants to bolster their scoring and depth, and a 17-PPG scorer could be a perfect option as a backup to likely All-Star Jalen Brunson.
15. De’Andre Hunter
2023-24 Statistics: 14.9 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 1.4 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.4 BPG
Likely Destinations: New York Knicks, Philadelphia 76ers
The Hawks are looking to blow up their roster and De’Andre Hunter could be one of their key players that will be moved. A 6’8” swingman who competes on both ends, Hunter has not managed to lift his production with the Hawks so far. Not to mention, it does not help when everybody outside of Trae Young is expendable.
Hunter could be effective in New York with the Knicks because his wing athleticism could make a nice partnership with OG Anunoby. The 76ers might also not be able to strike a deal with an All-Star player, and Hunter could be a backup option for them as they look to give Embiid and Brunson some more help. The Hawks will be sellers before the trade deadline and it will be interesting to see who they move.
16. Buddy Hield
2023-24 Statistics: 12.3 PPG, 3.2 RPG, 2.7 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.6 BPG
Likely Destinations: Toronto Raptors, Brooklyn Nets
Renowned for his elite shooting prowess, boasting a 38.8% three-point average this season, Buddy Hield remains a coveted asset on the trade market. The Indiana Pacers, having actively shopped Hield in recent seasons, present an opportunity for teams in need of a sharpshooter. The Toronto Raptors, contemplating a non-rebuilding approach, might pursue Hield to enhance their perimeter scoring.
Meanwhile, the Brooklyn Nets, seeking to surround Mikal Bridges (21.9 PPG and 5.1 RPG) with reliable shooters, could view Hield as an ideal fit. As a capable starter in the NBA, Hield’s availability allows the Pacers to explore potential trades and capitalize on the market demand for his sharpshooting abilities.
17. Rui Hachimura
2023-24 Statistics: 11.2 PPG, 3.5 RPG, 1.1 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.2 BPG
Likely Destinations: Chicago Bulls, Toronto Raptors
Rui Hachimura, at almost 26 years old, is a potential inclusion in trade talks for All-Star players like DeMar DeRozan, Zach LaVine, or Dejounte Murray who the Lakers might be pursuing. While the Lakers may prefer to retain Hachimura, a trade for one of these stars would likely demand additional assets beyond D’Angelo Russell and a 2029 first-round pick.
Hachimura, although not posting star-level numbers, brings scoring ability and valuable size inside. The Chicago Bulls and Toronto Raptors, both potentially involved in major trade discussions, might see Hachimura as an intriguing piece to acquire in their efforts to reshape their rosters.
18. Alex Caruso
2023-24 Statistics: 10.1 PPG, 3.6 RPG, 2.7 APG, 1.3 SPG, 1.0 BPG
Likely Destinations: Los Angeles Lakers, Dallas Mavericks
Recognized as one of the premier defensive guards in the NBA, Alex Caruso’s contributions extend beyond traditional stats, making the All-Defensive Team last year with 1.5 steals and 0.7 blocks per game. With a consistent defensive impact, Caruso’s skills were pivotal in the Lakers’ 2020 championship run, making a return to Los Angeles a compelling option.
The Lakers, seeking defensive stability, could find Caruso’s presence valuable. The Bulls will demand the 2029 first-round pick along with Reaves or Russell, a heavy price to pay. Otherwise, the Mavericks might look to add a third guard to bolster their perimeter defense and shooting.
19. Robert Covington
2023-24 Statistics: 4.4 PPG, 3.3 RPG, 0.8 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.6 BPG
Likely Destinations: Toronto Raptors, Chicago Bulls
Robert Covington, renowned for his defensive prowess and unselfish play, serves as a valuable spot-up shooter, boasting a 35.8% three-point shooting accuracy this season. At 33 years old, Covington remains a solid contributor with a few years left in his career. The Toronto Raptors, who just lost OG Anunoby, could find Covington’s defensive skills and shooting beneficial to their roster.
Alternatively, the Chicago Bulls, as they navigate a rebuilding phase, might see Covington as a valuable addition to their defensive schemes as they look to send Zach LaVine to Philadelphia for a package that also includes first-round picks. If Philly wants to make a trade, they will have to trade their expiring contracts and Covington headlines them.
20. Malcolm Brogdon
2023-24 Statistics: 15.9 PPG, 3.6 RPG, 5.5 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.2 BPG
Likely Destinations: New York Knicks, Dallas Mavericks
The reigning Sixth Man of the Year, Malcolm Brogdon, combines defensive prowess with scoring ability, making him a sought-after player. Despite his injury-prone history, with only two seasons of playing at least 65 games in his career, teams value Brogdon for his shooting proficiency (39.1% from three for his career) and versatile play.
The Trail Blazers are rebuilding and teams needing more guard play could look at Brogdon. The Knicks can always use another shooter and playmaker, and Brogdon provides both skills at a consistent level. The Mavericks also need more guard play because relying on Doncic and Irving going forward isn’t enough to win the West, and Brogdon can help.
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