Three weeks have passed since the dramatic NBA trade deadline, during which the Milwaukee Bucks sparked intense speculation regarding superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo. Although the Bucks ultimately decided to keep their star player, several significant trades involved other high-profile players, including Anthony Davis, Ivica Zubac, Coby White, and Jonathan Kuminga.
As the dust settled, many NBA teams turned their focus to the buyout market, an increasingly important avenue for playoff-bound teams to acquire veteran talent. Historically, this period has provided teams facing salary cap constraints with an opportunity to bolster their rosters with experienced players on short-term contracts. However, this year’s buyout market has been relatively quiet.
Among the notable developments, Mike Conley Jr. has returned to the Minnesota Timberwolves after his trade deadline shuffle, and Pat Connaughton rejoined the Charlotte Hornets after they waived him to manage their roster. The standout signings in this buyout period include young talents Cam Thomas and Jeremy Sochan, who both signed new deals through the remainder of the 2025-26 season. Thomas has particularly shined in his role with the Bucks, stepping up as a scorer while Giannis recovers from a calf injury, while Sochan is still adjusting with the New York Knicks.
Kyle Anderson recently cleared waivers after being bought out by the Memphis Grizzlies and plans to rejoin the Timberwolves, where he previously spent two seasons. He may not be the last notable player to shift teams during this buyout phase, as some teams are keeping an eye on veterans like Khris Middleton and DeMar DeRozan, who are contemplating their futures.
Middleton found himself in a unique situation after being included in a major trade that sent Anthony Davis to the Washington Wizards. The Dallas Mavericks expressed interest in retaining him for the remainder of the season, despite not positioning themselves for the playoffs. At the same time, playoff teams such as the Denver Nuggets and San Antonio Spurs are keenly watching Middleton’s situation, making it clear he could wind up with a contender if he decides to pursue a buyout.
DeRozan, a six-time All-Star with the Kings, is also navigating his own issues in Sacramento, where his leadership has been valued during another tumultuous season for the franchise. Though he remains with the Kings, speculation continues regarding potential interest from teams in playoff contention. Currently, the Kings have shown no inclination to initiate a buyout, and DeRozan hasn’t pushed for one either.
Russell Westbrook has thrived in his role with the Kings, providing stability and leadership, and is not currently seeking a buyout, making the possibility of a longer-term relationship with the team more likely.
Lonzo Ball, after being traded to the Utah Jazz and subsequently waived, remains a free agent. Despite interest from teams like the Golden State Warriors and the Nuggets, his knee health has raised significant concerns, leaving his NBA future uncertain. Meanwhile, D’Angelo Russell’s situation with the Wizards remains fluid, as he hasn’t yet reported to the team but may stay with them for the remainder of the season.
Another intriguing name, Cole Anthony, was traded to the Phoenix Suns but seems to have already fallen out of the team’s plans. Although he may be available for other teams, his future in the NBA appears tenuous.
Matisse Thybulle’s future with the Portland Trail Blazers hangs in the balance, as the team evaluates its needs versus the popularity of retaining a player with his defensive skills despite his injury history.
Lastly, Chris Boucher, previously with the Boston Celtics and now a free agent after a brief stint with the Jazz, could be eyeing a return to the Toronto Raptors, where he spent seven seasons and is hopeful for another opportunity.
Despite the quiet buyout season thus far, the next few days leading up to the March 1 deadline could yield further developments, as players and teams assess their options with the playoffs approaching. Teams remain hopeful that the right adjustments in the coming weeks can position them positively for the rigorous playoff battles ahead.