The 2025 NBA trade deadline is just around the corner, and the buzz around potential moves is heating up. Teams are scrambling to make last-minute deals, and some blockbuster trades could shake up the league. Let’s dive into the rumors, expert predictions, and players to watch for every single team in the league:
Atlanta Hawks
With Jalen Johnson out for the season, the Hawks are scrambling for a power forward. Kyle Kuzma, John Collins, and Marcus Smart are on their radar. Kuzma’s scoring and versatility make him a solid fit, while Collins’ reunion would bring a familiar face and sharpshooting. Smart? He’d instantly boost their 16th-ranked defense.
Boston Celtics
The Celtics are eyeing Walker Kessler from the Jazz to add depth at center. His sub-$3 million salary is a dream, but Utah might demand picks. If Kessler’s unavailable, veterans like Daniel Theis or Taj Gibson could provide insurance behind Kristaps Porziis and Al Horford.
Brooklyn Nets
Cameron Johnson is the Nets’ biggest trade chip, and they’re looking to cash in. Jonathan Kuminga from the Warriors is a dream target, but future first-round picks could also be in play. As one analyst put it, “Kuminga would be a franchise-building block for Brooklyn.”
Charlotte Hornets
It’s been a rough season for the Hornets, who are now without Brandon Miller. They’re targeting young talent like Cam Thomas, Nikola Jovi, and Keon Ellis to build around LaMelo Ball. Thomas, in particular, could form a dynamic scoring trio with Ball and Miller next season.
Chicago Bulls
The Bulls are in a tricky spot after trading Zach LaVine. They could go after Julius Randle for scoring or Nic Claxton as a long-term replacement for Nikola Vuevi. Keldon Johnson from the Spurs is another intriguing option if they want to add youth.
Cleveland Cavaliers
The Cavs are looking for depth, not blockbuster moves. Larry Nance Jr., Chris Boucher, and Corey Kispert are on their radar. Nance, in particular, would bring shooting and familiarity, having played in Cleveland before.
Dallas Mavericks
With Derick Lively II injured, the Mavs need a center. Clint Capela, Jusuf Nurki, and Andre Drummond are potential targets. Capela’s rebounding and pick-and-roll ability would be a perfect fit alongside Kyrie Irving.
Denver Nuggets
The Nuggets aren’t expected to make a splashy move, but they could add depth. Vasilije Mici, Simone Fontecchio, or Andre Drummond could provide bench support for their title push.
Detroit Pistons
The Pistons need scoring after losing Jaden Ivey. Brandon Ingram, Anfernee Simons, and Collin Sexton are all on their radar. Ingram, in particular, would give Cade Cunningham a proven wing scorer to play alongside.
Golden State Warriors
The Warriors are desperate for a spark. Jimmy Butler is their top target, but Brandon Ingram and Nikola Vuevi are also options. As ESPN’s Shams Charania noted, “The Warriors and Suns are the two likely landing spots for Butler.”
Houston Rockets
Sitting in second place, the Rockets don’t need to make a big move, but they’re keeping an eye on Jimmy Butler and Kevin Durant. Marcus Smart is a more realistic target, given his connection with head coach Ime Udoka.
Indiana Pacers
The Pacers are quietly playing well but could use upgrades. Cam Johnson, Robert Williams III, and Luke Kennard are all potential targets to boost their three-point shooting and defense.
Los Angeles Clippers
The Clippers need scoring help. Brandon Ingram, Jerami Grant, and Jordan Clarkson are on their radar. Ingram, in particular, would give them a lethal starting five alongside James Harden and Kawhi Leonard.
Los Angeles Lakers
After trading Anthony Davis, the Lakers need a center. Myles Turner, Jonas Valaninas, and Robert Williams III are all options. Turner’s rim protection and three-point shooting make him the ideal fit.
Memphis Grizzlies
The Grizzlies could be sneaky buyers. Cam Johnson and Jerami Grant are potential targets to pair with Ja Morant. Vasilije Mici is also an option for point guard depth.
Miami Heat
The Heat could go in any direction. If they trade Jimmy Butler, Jonathan Kuminga or Julius Randle could be incoming. If they keep him, they’ll look to add pieces for a playoff push.
Milwaukee Bucks
The Bucks are eyeing Jimmy Butler or Anfernee Simons to pair with Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard. Trading Khris Middleton might be necessary to make the money work.
Minnesota Timberwolves
The Wolves are limited by the second apron but could target Alec Burks or Reggie Jackson for depth. Burks’ three-point shooting would be a nice addition off the bench.
New Orleans Pelicans
With Dejounte Murray out for the season, the Pelicans need a point guard. Anthony Black, Tre Jones, and Isaiah Joe are potential targets to fill the void.
New York Knicks
The Knicks are looking for depth. Corey Kispert, Larry Nance Jr., and Julian Champagnie are all options. Nance, in particular, would bring energy and shooting to their rotation.
Oklahoma City Thunder
The Thunder are in the title hunt and could push their chips in. Cam Johnson, Kyle Kuzma, or even Chris Paul could provide veteran leadership for their young core.
Orlando Magic
The Magic need offensive firepower. LaMelo Ball, CJ McCollum, and Anfernee Simons are all potential targets. Ball, in particular, would transform their backcourt.
Philadelphia 76ers
The Sixers are in a unique spot. Santi Aldama, Simone Fontecchio, and Keon Ellis could help now and in the future as they balance competing and rebuilding.
Phoenix Suns
The Suns are eyeing Jimmy Butler, but moving Bradley Beal’s contract would be tough. Bogdan Bogdanovi and Andre Drummond are more realistic targets.
Portland Trail Blazers
The Blazers are rebuilding and could trade Jerami Grant and Deandre Ayton. Jonathan Kuminga, Jarace Walker, and Ousmane Dieng are potential young targets.
Sacramento Kings
The Kings need center depth. Jonas Valaninas, Larry Nance Jr., and Daniel Theis are all options. Valaninas, in particular, would thrive in Sacramento’s system.
San Antonio Spurs
The Spurs are looking for a center to pair with Victor Wembanyama. Jonas Valaninas, Goga Bitadze, and Andre Drummond are all potential targets.
Toronto Raptors
The Raptors want a young center to pair with Scottie Barnes. Nic Claxton, Walker Kessler, and Deandre Ayton are all options. Trading Jakob Poeltl could open the door for one of them.
Utah Jazz
The Jazz are in full rebuild mode. Jabari Smith Jr., Cam Thomas, and Julian Champagnie are potential targets as they look to stockpile young talent.
Washington Wizards
The Wizards need a point guard and young talent. Tre Jones, Cam Whitmore, and a 2025 first-round pick are all on their radar. Trading Kyle Kuzma or Jordan Poole could help them acquire assets.
