The NBA’s 2026 trade deadline is fast approaching, set for February 5 at 3 p.m. ET, and the atmosphere is ripe with anticipation as numerous high-profile players may be on the move.
The Memphis Grizzlies have kicked off what appears to be a significant rebuild by trading Jaren Jackson Jr. to the Utah Jazz in a major eight-player deal. This trade features not only Jackson but also John Konchar, Jock Landale, and Vince Williams Jr., who will head to Utah in exchange for Walter Clayton Jr., Kyle Anderson, Taylor Hendricks, Georges Niang, and three future first-round picks. The Jazz are sending their most advantageous 2027 first-round pick, alongside picks from the Cleveland Cavaliers and Minnesota Timberwolves, as well as the Los Angeles Lakers’ 2027 first-round pick and Phoenix’s 2031 first-round pick.
Additionally, trade discussions are heating up involving the Los Angeles Clippers and Cleveland Cavaliers, with a potential swap of James Harden for Darius Garland, according to Yahoo Sports’ Kelly Iko.
Amid this flurry of activity, Milwaukee Bucks forward and two-time NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo appears poised for a change of scenery. Frustrated by his team’s struggles, he is expected to be sidelined for 4-6 weeks due to a calf injury. Nevertheless, any team willing to acquire him can expect to pay a steep price, given his game-changing potential. Teams reportedly interested in acquiring Antetokounmpo include the New York Knicks, Golden State Warriors, Miami Heat, and Minnesota Timberwolves.
Other prominent players potentially on the move include Dallas Mavericks star Anthony Davis, Golden State Warriors’ Jonathan Kuminga, Brooklyn Nets’ Michael Porter Jr., and Grizzlies point guard Ja Morant. Interestingly, the New Orleans Pelicans have made it clear that players like Zion Williamson are not on the market, despite a disappointing season.
Last year’s trade deadline was remarkable, highlighted by Luka Dončić’s blockbuster deal, which saw him move from the Mavericks to the Lakers. This historic trade generated significant buzz and eventually led the Mavericks to secure the first pick in the draft, resulting in the selection of rising star Cooper Flagg.
As the February 2 deadline draws nearer, it remains to be seen whether this year’s trades will deliver the same level of excitement and drama as last year. Fans and analysts alike are hopeful for a captivating trade period.