Ivica Zubac
Two teams have already shown interest in the Serbian center: the Celtics, who are short on reliable big men, and the Pacers, still reeling from the loss of Myles Turner in that position. It makes sense, since after a strong individual start to the season, the Clippers have gone on a winning streak... without him. With his modest contract, he’s an ideal trade target.
2025/2026 stats: 15.0 points, 11.0 rebounds
Salary: $18,102,000 in 2025/2026, $19,550,160 in 2026/2027, $20,998,320 in 2027/2028.
Trade likelihood: 90%
CJ McCollum
Sent to Washington in exchange for Jordan Poole, the former Blazer has seen a slight dip in production this season, but remains a reliable asset. He’s already been mentioned as a key piece in a potential Trae Young trade. There’s no doubt plenty of contenders will be making inquiries in the coming months.
2025/2026 stats: 18.8 points, 39.3% from three
Salary: $33,333,333 in 2025/2026, $30,666,666 in 2026/2027
Trade likelihood: 80%
Cam Thomas
This is a real question mark. The player has broken out over the past two seasons, averaging more than 20 points per game as the main option. But the Nets have never managed to extend him, and his contract is up in a few months. Trade rumours have been swirling for weeks - will it finally happen? With his skill set and contract, he’d be a perfect addition for a contender...
2025/2026 stats: 21.0 points, 36.4% from three (12 games)
Salary: $5,993,172 in 2025/2026
Trade likelihood: 80%
Zion Williamson
The return of a recurring saga. Often injured and not always living up to expectations, he’s still a real offensive force. The Pelicans are in a tough spot, but have a decent supporting cast (Trey Murphy III, Herb Jones, etc.) and clearly need a fresh start after several disappointing seasons. The only real question: are New Orleans ready to move on from Zion? In any case, since he’s playing and performing, his trade value is currently quite high...
2025/2026 stats: 22.5 points, 5.8 rebounds
Salary: $39,446,090 in 2025/2026, $42,166,510 in 2026/2027, $44,886,930 in 2027/2028.
Trade likelihood: 30%
Anthony Davis
A year after arriving in Dallas under well-known circumstances, the big man no longer fits the franchise’s timeline. As a result, he’s been put on the trade block; Atlanta checked in, but talks didn’t progress. With AD, you get talent but also injuries. Which ambitious team will take the gamble, given his hefty contract?
2025/2026 stats: 20.4 points, 10.8 rebounds, 1.7 blocks
Salary: $54,126,450 in 2025/2026, $58,456,566 in 2026/2027, $62,786,682 in 2027/2028 (player option)
Trade likelihood: 40%
DeMar DeRozan
Hoping to chase a title before retiring, he’s stuck on one of the Western Conference’s bottom teams. But with the Sacramento Kings constantly rumoured to be blowing up their roster, it’s hard to see why he wouldn’t leave. Especially since his salary is reasonable, his impact is proven, and this is likely his last shot to join a contender.
2025/2026 stats: 18.3 points, 3.8 assists
Salary: $24,750,000 in 2025/2026, $25,740,000 in 2026/2027
Trade likelihood: 90%
Nikola Vucevic
At 35, the Montenegrin center is nearing the end of his career, but can still contribute, especially on offense. Still, there doesn’t seem to be a rush to sign him. A buyout seems more likely, allowing him to play a backup center role for a contender.
2025/2026 stats: 16.5 points, 8.9 rebounds
Salary: $21,481,481 in 2025/2026
Trade (or buyout) likelihood: 90%
Jarrett Allen
After finishing first in the regular season last year, the Cleveland Cavaliers suffered a major playoff disappointment and haven’t managed to get back on track this season. If someone is going to be moved, it’ll likely be the former Nets center, whose contract is fairly reasonable but who seems to overlap too much with Evan Mobley. The question is whether the Cavs are willing to take that risk.
2025/2026 stats: 13.7 points, 7.8 rebounds
Salary: $20,000,000 in 2025/2026, $28,000,000 in 2026/2027, $30,240,000 in 2027/2028, $32,480,000 in 2028/2029
Trade likelihood: 20%
R.J Barrett
With Scottie Barnes clearly the leader, Brandon Ingram back in form, Immanuel Quickley still on the rise, and several rookies looking to break out, there may no longer be a real spot for the Canadian.
It’s a tough pill to swallow, especially since he plays for his home country’s franchise, but while he was once seen as a future star, he may be tired of being a role player.
2025/2026 stats: 19.2 points, 5.0 rebounds
Salary: $27,705,357 in 2025/2026, $29,616,071 in 2026/2027
Trade likelihood: 50%
Trae Young
The headline story of this trade deadline. It appears the Hawks have decided to move on, and the all-star point guard is officially on the market.
Brilliant on offense, a liability on defense, he could still be the centrepiece for a franchise looking to rebuild around a big name - like the Wizards, who are interested, as well as the Bucks and Clippers, among others. Expect the bidding to heat up by February 5th...
2025/2026 stats: 19.3 points, 8.9 assists (10 games)
Salary: $45,999,660 in 2025/2026, $48,967,380 in 2026/2027 (player option)
Trade likelihood: 95%