As the NBA trade deadline on February 8 looms, teams across the league are strategizing to bolster their lineups for the playoffs. The NBA has a history of surprising trades, and this season could be no different.
From Paul George’s unexpected move to the LA Clippers to the Rudy Gobert deal, the NBA has shown that any player can be traded, regardless of their status. Let’s explore five big stars who might find themselves in a new team unexpectedly.
Top 5 NBA Stars on the Trading Block
No. 5 – Mikal Bridges, Brooklyn Nets
Mikal Bridges, who was part of the blockbuster Kevin Durant trade, has become an integral player for the Brooklyn Nets. Known for his defensive skills, Bridges showed his scoring prowess last season, but there has been a noticeable dip in his performance this year. As a valuable role player, Bridges might be a target for teams looking to add depth and defense to their rosters.
No. 4 – Julius Randle, New York Knicks
Julius Randle’s future with the New York Knicks is up in the air. With the Knicks reportedly eyeing big names like Dejounte Murray, Randle’s significant contract could be used to acquire a top-tier player. The New York Knicks’ willingness to shuffle their roster puts Randle in a precarious position despite his contributions to the team.
No. 3 – Karl-Anthony Towns, Minnesota Timberwolves
Karl-Anthony Towns moving from the Minnesota Timberwolves would be a major shakeup. Despite being a key player for the top team in the West, financial constraints, particularly the luxury tax implications of the contracts of Anthony Edwards and Rudy Gobert, might force the Timberwolves to consider trading Towns.
The Brooklyn Nets are looking to buy talent at the trade deadline, per @WindhorstESPN
“The word through the NBA is the Nets are attempting to be buyers.”
(Via https://t.co/MVAdhRM3bU) pic.twitter.com/ur1xRuAEIN
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) January 20, 2024
No. 2 – Donovan Mitchell, Cleveland Cavaliers
Donovan Mitchell’s name has been circulating in trade rumors since his departure from Utah. Despite his impressive performance with the Cavaliers, Cleveland might consider trading him before his free agency in 2025, with New York being a potential destination. Mitchell’s trade could be one of the most talked-about moves this season.
No. 1 – Trae Young, Atlanta Hawks
The biggest potential move could involve Atlanta Hawks’ star Trae Young. The Hawks, who are underperforming this season, might lean towards a rebuild, making Young a prime candidate for a trade. With a lucrative contract, Young would fetch a significant return, making this potential trade a focal point of the deadline.
Conclusion: High Stakes and Surprising Moves
The NBA trade deadline is known for its unpredictability and high-stakes moves. These five players represent some of the most significant potential trades that could reshape teams and the league’s dynamics.
As teams jostle for a better position in the playoffs, all eyes will be on these players and the decisions that will determine their futures in the league.
