INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - JANUARY 14: Ja Morant #12 of the Memphis Grizzlies dunks the ball in the third quarter against the Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on January 14, 2023 in Indianapolis, Indiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images)
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Trade rumors are already dominating the news cycle in the NBA. Swinging a big trade can be the difference in a team winning a championship or flaming out early in the playoffs. Let’s discuss when the 2026 NBA trade deadline is, which teams are likely to make moves, and which players are likely to be dealt.
The trade deadline is February 5, 2026, at 3 p.m. ET. All trades must be approved by the league office. Teams can no longer make trades this season after the deadline has passed.
The Warriors are in the thick of the playoff hunt in the Western Conference, but their playoff hopes took a big hit earlier this week after Jimmy Butler tore his ACL. In order to capitalize on another excellent season from Stephen Curry, the Warriors will need to add help to their roster. They have an appealing young asset in Jonathan Kuminga, who has already demanded a trade. Trading him might be their best opportunity to add a valuable veteran for the stretch run.
If the season ended today, the Bucks wouldn’t even qualify for the Play-In Tournament. If they are going to keep superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo happy, they need to improve their roster. The problem is, they likely don’t have enough available draft capital to make a big move for a superstar. If they are going to improve, it will likely be through smaller moves to help with their overall quality of depth.
The Nets are well on their way to one of the worst records in the NBA again. They are in the middle of a rebuild, so they will be looking to make moves with their future in mind. Michael Porter Jr. could be on the move with his value peaking in a leading role. Nic Claxton is also a productive center who could be attractive to contending teams. Teams in need of a scoring punch could inquire about Cam Thomas, who is never one to shy away from jacking up shots.
Injuries and off the court issues have plagued Morant the last couple of seasons. Complicating matters for the Grizzlies is Morant shooting a career low 40.7% from the field this season. Much like when the Hawks traded Trae Young to the Wizards, a change of scenery would likely be best for Morant. The Heat and Kings are two teams that could be in the mix for his services.
The Kings have a lot of veterans on their roster that could be appealing to contending teams. One of them is DeRozan, who is averaging 19.1 points per game and shooting 50.8% from the field. While he is 36 years old, he only has one season remaining on his contract after the current campaign. With Butler sidelined, DeRozan could be an attractive option for the Warriors.
The Jazz have been a tanking team the last couple of seasons and have already started to rest players again. That has included Nurkic sitting out seven of their last 12 games. He has been productive when he plays, averaging 10.9 points, 10.2 rebounds, 4.5 assists, and 1.4 steals. Nurkic will be a free agent after this season, so he could be an appealing rental for a contending team in need of a backup center. Teams that fit that mold include the Lakers, Warriors, and Celtics.