2026 NBA Trade Deadline: Key Insights and Rumors
The 2026 NBA Trade Deadline is set for today at 2:00 PM Central Time. Teams wishing to finalize deals must act swiftly, as those not traded will remain with their teams until the conclusion of the season. Following a quiet period, the trade landscape has exploded this week with significant activity.
Recent Trades and Activity
Prior to February 1, only one trade had taken place since the season’s start. However, over the last few days, 10 deals have been completed, with seven more agreed upon. Notably, these transactions are not mere salary dumps; they involve major players moving to new teams.
Key Trades
- Utah Jazz: Acquired Jaren Jackson Jr. from Memphis in a multi-player, multi-pick deal.
- Washington Wizards: Agreed to a trade for Anthony Davis from Dallas, also involving eight players and five draft picks.
- Cleveland Cavaliers & Los Angeles Clippers: Executed a swap featuring multi-time All-Stars James Harden and Darius Garland.
- Players on the move: Coby White, Keon Ellis, De’Andre Hunter, Jaden Ivey, Jared McCain, Kevin Huerter, and Collin Sexton.
- Pending Deals: Nikola Vucevic, Anfernee Simons, Kristaps Porzingis, Jonathan Kuminga, Lonzo Ball, and Chris Paul may also be traded.
Anticipated Moves Before Deadline
As the deadline approaches, speculation surrounds two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo. Despite interest from rival teams, skepticism remains about Milwaukee moving him before the deadline. It appears the Bucks are inclined to wait until the offseason for potentially better offers.
Recent moves, including Golden State’s trade of Jonathan Kuminga to Atlanta, suggest their pursuit of Antetokounmpo is over for now. Reports indicate that Milwaukee has not engaged in meaningful discussions about Giannis, leading to doubts about any imminent trade.
Other Notable Trade Candidates
- Ja Morant (Grizzlies)
- The Nets have cap space to facilitate trades.
- The Timberwolves and Heat may seek alternatives if Giannis does not move.
- The Kings and Pelicans possess several trade assets.
As activity continues, teams may surprise observers with last-minute trades. Stay tuned for updates as the deadline approaches, with El-Balad tracking all rumors and transactions leading to the final decision deadline at 2:00 PM CT today.
