The NBA salary cap is poised to see increased restrictions, potentially leading to a surge in multi-team trade agreements as the February 5 deadline approaches. NBA insider Jake Fischer mentioned that many front offices are anticipating trade activity to involve three or four teams based on recent discussions.
Fischer highlighted a growing sentiment within the league that teams such as the Brooklyn Nets, Charlotte Hornets, and Utah Jazz are open to participating as third parties in trades. These teams have indicated their willingness to facilitate transactions in exchange for draft capital, as reported by Fischer.
In addition to these three teams, there are 15 others that are hard-capped at the first apron as the trade deadline nears. This includes notable franchises like the Los Angeles Lakers, Los Angeles Clippers, Orlando Magic, and Houston Rockets, all of which find themselves with less than $2 million in space below the hard cap.
The Nets find themselves in the company of the New York Knicks, Golden State Warriors, and Dallas Mavericks as teams capped at the second apron. Each of these teams is navigating tight financial constraints, with the Knicks and the Mavericks also facing similar cap restrictions.
Fischer pointed out that even teams without a hard cap might feel the pressure leading up to the deadline if they want to avoid the luxury tax. On the same day, ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo is open to a change of scenery, and the Bucks are now listening to offers.
Names like the New York Knicks and the Miami Heat have emerged as potential suitors for Antetokounmpo. However, both teams face limitations regarding their trade offers; the Knicks have just one tradeable first-round pick in 2026, while the Heat do not have any tradeable first-rounders until 2030.
Both franchises are also hard-capped at the first apron, with the Heat possessing just over $7 million in salary space and the Knicks almost at their second apron limit. This creates an intricate landscape for negotiations leading up to the deadline, amplifying the excitement for fans as teams strategize to navigate the leagues’ financial intricacies while strengthening their rosters.