Steph, Draymond, Kerr have discussed Warriors’ reality together originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area
If the Warriors can figure things out and make a run for the playoffs, it would be a great thing. But three key figures in the team’s foundation aren’t willing to sacrifice the team’s future for the sake of immediate playoff success.
After Golden State stars Steph Curry and Draymond Green recently explained why they don’t think the Warriors, who are currently one game below .500, should make a desperate trade, Steve Kerr shared that this has been a topic of conversation among the three of them.
“We’ve talked about this,” Kerr told 95.7 The Game’s “Willard and Dibs” on Tuesday. “The three of us have been together for so long. We have these types of conversations, and so, yes, we’ve discussed it. I’m really impressed with these guys and how much they care about the Warriors and the team’s future.
And you’re right, a lot of players in their situation might say, ‘Forget the future, let’s trade everything and see what happens.’
“That’s not who they are, and part of that is because they’re Warriors for life. It’s like how Dirk Nowitzki watches Dallas games from the sidelines like a fan, and that’s really cool. I think that’s how Steph and Draymond will be once they retire. They’ll be Warriors fans. They want the best for the team’s future, and they’re thinking clearly about this.”
After the Warriors gave the Toronto Raptors their second win in 18 games on Monday night, Curry told reporters the Warriors shouldn’t make a “desperate” trade. Last week in Detroit, Green told Yahoo Sports’ Vince Goodwill that trading away the future for one last shot at a championship is something “bad teams” do.
Stephen Curry in the 2nd half
Curry, Green, and Kerr are all on the same page.
“We’re in a very unique and tough situation, but it’s no one’s fault,” Kerr said. “This is just the reality of sports and life. We had this amazing run, and now we’re at the end of it, trying to hold on. And we know it’s a young man’s game.
We were the rising team 10 years ago, like Oklahoma City and Houston. Now, we’re on the decline. We know that. We’ve all talked about it. It would be so irresponsible for the franchise to trade everything for one last shot at a title.
“You have to know your position as a team. You have to understand where the rest of the league stands. And in my opinion, and I think Mike’s, Steph’s, and Draymond’s, now is not the time to bet everything on one big gamble.
That would be irresponsible. So, we know where we stand, which is in the middle of the pack, with a bunch of teams who are either good enough or not good enough. We need to figure out if we are. And being good enough means can we make it to the playoffs and give ourselves a chance? That’s what we’re trying to do.”
As the 2024-25 NBA season reaches its halfway point, the Warriors are still searching for a winning formula. Kerr took responsibility for the team’s struggles after their loss in Toronto on Monday, and the on-court results show that only a major trade would likely push the Warriors back to the top.
However, Curry, Green, and Kerr have been in this position before. They would rather give the next generation of Warriors stars a fair chance to reach the top too, instead of risking everything for one last shot at glory.
The Jimmy Butler trade rumors have slowed down recently, and it seems like there hasn’t been much progress on a trade. Let’s look at the current situation.
Latest Jimmy Butler trade rumors and news
Miami is still trying to find a trade for Jimmy Butler, having spoken to several teams in the past week, but there hasn’t been any movement and no trade is close, according to Anthony Chiang of the Miami Herald.
The main facts haven’t changed: Butler wants to be traded and prefers to go to Phoenix, a team that is also interested in him. However, it’s tough to figure out how to make that trade happen. Other teams aren’t showing much interest unless they can get Butler for a low price or with less favorable contracts coming back to Miami.
Butler is 35 years old, has a history of injuries, and some doubt if his skills are still at their peak. Additionally, he wants a new contract but could also opt into the $52.4 million he’s set to make next season. All of these factors make it hard for teams to commit to a trade for him.
This likely means Butler will return to the Heat after his suspension ends on Friday, which could lead to some uncomfortable situations.
Miami’s team president, Pat Riley, suspended Butler for seven games after Butler expressed frustration with the team, saying, “I want to see me getting my joy back playing basketball. Wherever that may be.” He added that it wouldn’t be in Miami, and he and his agent asked for a trade. Riley acted quickly, remembering how Butler’s trade demands caused issues with his previous teams in Minnesota.
The NBA players’ union plans to appeal the suspension and may recover some, if not all, of the $2.35 million Butler will lose during the suspension.
Butler’s suspension ends on Sunday. The question now is whether everyone will handle things professionally and move on, or if Butler will remain disruptive and not put full effort into games. Another option could be Miami paying him to stay away from the team.
Jimmy Butler not going anywhere until Summer?
It’s clear that Butler wants to be traded, with Phoenix being his ideal destination, and the Suns also wanting him. However, Miami isn’t willing to accept a bad deal just to get rid of him, and there are no good offers on the table. This situation has been like this for a while.
Many sources NBC Sports spoke with believe Butler will stay with Miami past the February 6 trade deadline and into the summer. He is likely to opt into the $52.4 million contract for next season, and Miami will look for a trade later. Executives have said they don’t see any clear way to make a trade happen before the deadline, as stated by Steve Bulpett at Heavy Sports.
Jimmy Butler and Paul Reed in the 1st half
“I don’t know how this gets worked out,” one league source told Heavy Sports. “And I only know of a few teams that want to come anywhere near this.”
“It’s more difficult than people think,” said one team’s head of basketball operations. “First of all, Jimmy’s 35 and doesn’t have much value. And then the team that would like him the most is probably Phoenix, because they’re so bad and they have the worst contract in (Bradley) Beal. Other than that, I don’t know of any teams that would want to take on Jimmy Butler, other than teams that just want to dump contracts — and Miami won’t go for that. I just don’t know how it’s going to work.
“But all this stuff with Jimmy — all the stuff in Miami and Minnesota and Chicago and Philly — all of it is because he wants to get paid. That’s where he’s at right now. He wants to be paid for what he’s done for Miami.”
The main issue remains Butler’s next contract. This situation has always been about money, not basketball. Butler didn’t get the two-year, $100 million-plus extension he wanted last summer from Pat Riley, so now he’s looking for that deal elsewhere. Phoenix is the only team that might come close to offering that amount, but making a trade to send Butler to Phoenix is nearly impossible.
So, it seems likely that Butler will still be with the Miami Heat after the trade deadline, which could lead to some awkward situations.
What do Heat want in Butler trade?
Miami isn’t looking to sell Jimmy Butler cheaply. The team’s main goals in any trade are to get players who can help them win this season and next, not just future picks or young players, and to avoid taking on long-term contracts. If Miami makes a trade, it wants the flexibility to build around Bam Adebayo and Tyler Herro without being stuck with another long-term, expensive contract.
The problem is that Butler is making $48.8 million this season, with a player option for $52.4 million next season. Butler is 35 years old and wants an extension, which could either be added to the end of his current contract, taking him to age 38, or he could opt out and sign a two-year deal worth more than $100 million, which would take him to age 37.
Trading for Butler means that teams either have to send another expensive player to Miami, or multiple players to make the deal work. If a trade happens, it will probably be a three- or four-team trade, which is very difficult to arrange both financially and to make all the teams involved happy.
Because of this, some league sources believe Butler will stay with the Heat until summer, when a trade might be easier to complete around the NBA draft or in July.
Top Butler destinations
There’s really only one team seriously in the mix:
Phoenix Suns
The latest news confirms that Phoenix wants Butler badly, but the only way to make the trade work is by including Bradley Beal. However, no one wants to take on Beal and the $110 million he’s owed over the next two seasons (Marc Stein reported this over the weekend).
There are basketball reasons why Butler would want to go to the Suns: playing alongside Kevin Durant and Devin Booker makes sense, and the Suns could use more toughness, something Butler could bring. But mostly, Butler wants to join the Suns because their owner, Mat Ishbia, has indicated he would offer Butler the kind of extension he wants.
Jimmy Butler reacts after scoring
The problem, however, is making the trade happen. As mentioned, Phoenix would need to include Beal, but there is no interest in taking him on, either in Miami or across the league. For one, Beal has a no-trade clause and can block any trade he doesn’t agree with.
Moving Beal to the bench, though it might make sense on the court, could be seen as Phoenix trying to make him unhappy enough to waive his no-trade clause. The bigger issue is that the Miami Heat don’t want Beal.
They want players who can help them win now and don’t want to take on long-term money. Beal was just benched in favor of a rookie and is owed more than $100 million for the next two seasons.
Phoenix is trying to find a three- or four-team trade where Beal goes to a third team. While it’s an idea, it’s hard to pull off because, like the Heat, other teams aren’t eager to take on Beal.
The few teams that might consider it will want a lot of extra assets, like first-round picks that the Suns don’t want to give up. These teams would also want Beal to give up his no-trade clause, something he would likely be hesitant to do.
Because of all these complications, many people around the league believe that Butler will still be with the Heat after the trade deadline.
Brooklyn not going to pursue Butler
If Butler isn’t traded before the February 6 trade deadline, he will have to decide whether to pick up his $52.4 million option for next season or become a free agent.
Butler is looking to get paid, and Brooklyn is the only team with enough cap space to offer him a deal next summer. However, according to Marc Stein’s Sunday newsletter, the Nets aren’t interested in pursuing Butler as a free agent. They want to keep their resources ready in case Giannis Antetokounmpo gets unhappy in Milwaukee and wants to leave.
This lack of interest in Butler is one of the reasons why many expect him to opt into the $52.4 million for next season. The only question is whether he might choose to opt out and sign a new deal, like two years for $70 million, which would offer him more guaranteed money over a longer period.
Golden State Warriors not interested
On the surface, it seems like a good fit: The Golden State Warriors are looking for a star player who can create shots and play defense alongside Stephen Curry. Butler is available. However, The Athletic reports that the Warriors aren’t interested in pursuing him for three reasons: Butler’s age, his injury history, and his price.
To make a trade work, the Warriors would have to send out either Draymond Green or Andrew Wiggins, along with Jonathan Kuminga and at least two other players. Plus, they’d have to pay Butler a large new contract next summer.
This reasoning reflects what many teams are thinking about Butler.
Fans hold up a portrait of Jimmy Butler in the 2nd half
Grizzlies, Bucks out of running
When Butler and his agent requested a trade from the Heat, ESPN reported that Butler wanted to play “anywhere but Miami.” But “anywhere” doesn’t seem to include Memphis or Milwaukee. Butler’s representatives have told the Memphis Grizzlies that he doesn’t want to be traded there, according to Chris Haynes.
Other reports say the Bucks are also not on his preferred list. Since Butler can opt out after this season and become a free agent, he has some control over where he is traded. However, that doesn’t mean he can easily force a move to Phoenix.
What happened between Jimmy Butler and Pat Riley?
The issues between Butler and the Heat are all about money. After last season, Butler wanted to discuss a contract extension, hoping to opt out of his $52.4 million for next season and get a two-year deal worth $112.6 million. However, Pat Riley rejected that idea, saying:
“That’s a big decision on our part to commit those kinds of resources unless you have somebody who’s going to be there and available every single night. That’s the truth.”
Butler played only 60 games last season and was unavailable for the Heat’s playoff series against the Celtics.
Butler told the Washington Post this week that he still believes he’s in his prime.
In short, Butler wants to be paid, but the Heat don’t want to pay him, so Butler is now seeking a trade to a team where he thinks he can get the money he’s asking for.
As we reach the middle of the 2024-25 NBA season, it’s a good moment to review the current state of the league.
Halfway through the season, we can better assess which players have performed better or worse than expected. We reached out to coaches, scouts, and executives across the NBA to hear their opinions, and they quickly pointed out players who have both impressed and disappointed.
Here’s a summary of the players who made the list, why they stood out, what the surprising Detroit Pistons might do at the trade deadline, an update on a promising rookie in Philadelphia, and what lies ahead for Bradley Beal and the Phoenix Suns as we check in on the NBA.
Surprising Players of the First Half
Karl-Anthony Towns, New York Knicks
Towns, after being traded to New York right before training camp, has exceeded expectations. He’s averaging over 25 points on a career-high 55% shooting and is leading the league in rebounds, contributing to the Knicks’ No. 3-ranked offense. His absence from the Timberwolves has also been noticeable. “He’s been everything the Knicks were hoping for and more,” one scout said. “That’s how to win a trade.”
Cade Cunningham, Detroit Pistons
Cunningham, in his fourth season, faced many questions about his potential, even after signing a max rookie extension with Detroit. He’s been excellent, setting career highs across the board and leading the Pistons, who are above .500, and just a half-game out of sixth place in the East. “When the Pistons gave him the max, there were quite a few people who thought it was a risk,” one GM said. “And he’s been very strong.”
Victor Wembanyama, San Antonio Spurs
Even with all the hype around him, Wembanyama continues to impress. He’s leading the league in blocks and has the Spurs in the mix for a play-in spot in the competitive Western Conference. “What he’s doing is just ridiculous,” said one executive. “If he gets that roster to the playoffs, he should get MVP votes. And he might.”
Victor Wembanyama reacts in the 2nd half
Dyson Daniels, Atlanta Hawks
Daniels is playing a career-high 33 minutes per game for Atlanta, after being on the bench for most of the past two seasons with New Orleans. His offensive confidence has grown with more shooting around him, even though his shooting still needs improvement. He’s also leading the league in steals with 3.1 per game and has 90 more deflections than De’Aaron Fox, who ranks second. “He’s in a much better fit than he was in New Orleans,” said a scout. “He never got the opportunity to play there, and the fit was always bad. Now, he’s playing with much more confidence.”
Lonzo Ball, Chicago Bulls
It’s surprising that Ball is even playing at all after missing 2½ years due to knee issues. Even more surprising is that he’s been contributing to winning right away, just like he did before his injuries. Though his numbers aren’t impressive, Chicago is 10 points per 100 possessions better with Ball on the court. “When he plays, he’s very impactful,” an executive said. “Someone is going to get him next year and look smart.”
James Harden and Norman Powell, LA Clippers
After losing Paul George in free agency and seeing Kawhi Leonard miss almost the entire season due to injuries, the Clippers being 20-17 is a surprise. Their solid performance can be attributed to the strong play of their starting backcourt: Harden and Powell.
Harden is averaging 21.4 points and 7.9 assists. While his shooting percentages are down, he’s been praised for helping keep the Clippers competitive. “They’re pretty good, and he’s the reason,” said a scout. “I know he’s a household name. But he was trending to a pretty bad place, and that’s not true anymore.”
Powell, meanwhile, has a strong chance to win the NBA’s Most Improved Player Award this season, as he’s averaging 23.4 points on 48.7% shooting, which is a career-high.
“He’s gotten more minutes and shots,” said an executive, “but no one would’ve believed he’d take this leap at this stage of his career.”
Cameron Johnson, Brooklyn Nets
As Brooklyn begins its rebuild, Johnson is becoming one of the key players to watch in the trade market. His contract is attractive, especially considering the salary cap rules this season. He’s also setting career highs in points (19.6), 3-point shooting (44%), and assists (3.0).
“He has good synergy with [coach Jordi Fernandez] and he’s really turned him loose,” said a scout.
“He’s playing with no pressure on a bad team,” said an executive. “But he’s not young, and I wasn’t sure he’d be able to fully take advantage of this opportunity.”
Seven Disappointing Players of the First Half
Paul George and Joel Embiid, Philadelphia 76ers
The season for both George and Embiid has been disappointing. Embiid’s preseason injuries have carried into the regular season, limiting him to 13 games so far. George has struggled with his knee injuries and is having one of his worst seasons in a decade. Tyrese Maxey, under increased pressure, has also seen a drop in his performance.
Paul George warms up before the game
Despite a tough start with a 3-14 record, the Sixers are now 15-20 and just two games out of the play-in spot. Still, George and Embiid have been the main focus of the disappointment. “Philly probably knew there was a chance they’d have a rough PG year on this contract but they probably thought it would be year four — not year one,” said an executive.
“Embiid has a lot of bad injury luck and plays through pain, so you feel sympathy for him for that. But sometimes he acts so entitled that it goes away,” another executive added.
Kyle Kuzma, Washington Wizards
A year ago, the rebuilding Wizards could’ve traded Kuzma at the deadline, but after consulting with him, they decided against it. Now, it might be tough for the Wizards to find another chance to deal him. Kuzma, who will turn 30 this summer, is averaging just 15.6 points and shooting a disappointing 26.6% from 3-point range on one of the league’s worst teams.
“I know he’s dealt with an injury,” said a scout, “but I think this has been the most disappointing season of his career.”
Terry Rozier and Jaime Jaquez Jr., Miami Heat
The Heat have struggled this season partly due to the poor performances of Rozier and Jaquez.
Rozier, acquired a year ago in a deal involving a first-round pick and Kyle Lowry, was expected to be a multi-year difference-maker. However, this season, Rozier has lost his starting spot and is shooting his lowest percentages since his early years in Boston.
“He’s nowhere near the player the Heat thought they traded for,” said an executive. “His poor play has [played] a bigger role than gets noticed for their season.”
Jaquez, meanwhile, has not played like the first-team All-Rookie selection he was last year.
“Maybe a sophomore slump, maybe he played a bit over his head as a rookie,” said a scout. “He’s backslid compared to where he was last year.”
Scoot Henderson, Portland Trail Blazers
Henderson, who was picked third in last year’s draft, was expected to make a big improvement in his second season, as many young guards do after getting used to the NBA.
However, his minutes have gone down, and his stats have either stayed the same or dropped. This is concerning for a team like Portland, which is trying to build a strong future.
“I thought it was a guarantee he’d play much better this year than last and show some things,” an executive said. “I’ve been wrong. His numbers are down, and the eye [test] confirms it.”
Lauri Markkanen, Utah Jazz
The Jazz are working hard to make sure they get a top pick in this year’s draft, but they have been helped by the fact that their best player, Markkanen, has not been performing as well.
After being an All-Star in 2023 and playing some of the best basketball of his career, Markkanen’s points, rebounds, and shooting percentages have all dropped this season.
“He’s probably not super motivated because the team is tanking,” an executive said. “But his numbers and his overall level are down across the board.”
What’s next for Bradley Beal and the Suns?
Bontemps: Two important details were mentioned in Windhorst’s story about Beal’s situation. First, Beal and his agent Mark Bartelstein have not discussed Beal waiving his no-trade clause.
Second, Bartelstein made it clear that Beal will never give up the no-trade clause, and it will stay with him until his contract ends. He didn’t rule out Beal approving a trade, but the clause would still apply.
Phoenix Suns- Kevin Durant
Despite Phoenix’s current issues, Beal’s no-trade clause is a big problem. He’s owed $110 million over the next two years, and without the no-trade clause, his contract could be easier to move.
“He’s a bad contract,” the executive said, “but not immovable, if the team that’s getting him knows they could also trade him later.”
However, for that to happen, Beal would need to give up the clause, but he has no reason to do so.
This situation makes it hard to see a trade for Beal happening anytime soon.
Windhorst: Beal stayed in Washington through some tough seasons, then had long talks with teams when he was allowing a trade to Phoenix. His time with the Suns hasn’t gone well, but Beal is not someone who looks to move around.
Even if there was strong demand for Beal, which many league executives think there isn’t (mainly because of his contract), Beal would want to be comfortable with where he was going. And with the season already in progress, the trade process would be complicated. The more you know about Beal and his situation, the more you understand why a trade is so difficult.
What are the surging Pistons up to?
The Pistons moved to a winning record of 19-18 after their victory in Brooklyn on Wednesday night. This marked their 10th road win of the season, which they had only achieved once in the past six years.
Around the league, other teams have been looking at Detroit’s $14 million in salary cap space and $44 million under the luxury tax as something that could be used at the trade deadline. With trades becoming more complicated now, the Pistons had left that space open to possibly acquire draft picks by taking on unwanted salaries to help other teams with larger deals.
However, after seeing a big improvement under their new coach J.B. Bickerstaff (Detroit had a 14-68 record last season, including a record-tying 28 straight losses), the Pistons may not be as eager to use that cap space.
After winning eight of their last nine games, sources say the Pistons are rethinking their strategy and may hold on to their cap space more carefully as they look to upgrade their roster and keep flexibility for next season.
Two more reasons Cavs-Thunder was the game of the year
The Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Cleveland Cavaliers game on Wednesday night, which many considered the best of the regular season, lived up to all the excitement.
One key reason the game was so great was that both teams had two full days to prepare for it. The Cavaliers and Thunder last played on Sunday, which gave them the opportunity to practice and focus on the game, something teams usually can’t do in the busy schedule of an 82-game season.
The result was a thrilling game that showed off the best aspects of NBA basketball.
“It was great,” said Cavaliers coach Kenny Atkinson after Cleveland’s 129-122 win. “Great for the league.”
“We all enjoy competition. But to see the talent out there tonight, these were the heavy hitters of our league. The quality of the basketball was super high.”
The Los Angeles Lakers have won seven of their last ten games, but with the February 6 trade deadline approaching and the offseason ahead, the team’s future is uncertain. A possible major trade involving Lakers star LeBron James has become a popular topic, with rumors suggesting he could move to the Golden State Warriors in 2025.
Kevin O’Connor from Yahoo Sports recently mentioned that there’s a chance the Warriors might pursue LeBron James this summer.
O’Connor shared his thoughts last Friday, saying, “I think this summer, they’re [Warriors] going to be trading for LeBron James.” He added that the Warriors’ general manager, Mike Dunleavy Jr., could face difficulty in creating an appealing trade package.
“If Mike Dunleavy Jr. doesn’t figure out how they’re going to package [Jonathan] Kuminga and picks, and Moses Moody in some sort of variation of that,” O’Connor explained. “Maybe you go to Steph [Curry] and say, look, we weren’t able to build you a title contender at this point, but we’re going to go after LeBron, and we understand that you want to play together one last time.”
A Trio of LeBron, Curry, and Green?
If the trade takes place, O’Connor suggests it would form a powerful trio of LeBron James, Steph Curry, and Draymond Green. The mix of these three NBA legends would be “really good entertainment,” but the bigger question is whether this star trio would be enough to help Golden State win another championship.
LeBron James reacts in the 1st half
“It’s just whether that’s going to be enough to give Steph what he wants, which is competing at the highest level and winning a championship,” O’Connor said.
LeBron James and the Lakers: Uncertainty Ahead
LeBron James joined the Lakers in 2018 with the plan to spend the final years of his career in Los Angeles. Over the years, he has helped the team win its 17th NBA championship in 2020, along with many memorable moments for Lakers fans. However, this season has been up and down, despite great performances from James and star teammate Anthony Davis.
With the Lakers’ current situation and inconsistent results, it’s possible the team might look to the future. They may decide to keep James for the rest of the season and reevaluate his future in the offseason.
Lakers and Warriors Need to Strike a Deal
While the idea of a LeBron-Curry-Green trio in Golden State is exciting, for it to happen, both the Lakers and the Warriors would need to reach a deal that works for both sides. The speculation is growing, but a lot will depend on how both teams manage their rosters in the coming months.
The decision about LeBron James’ future may not come until after the season ends, but fans can expect plenty of drama leading up to the trade deadline.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and James Harden in the 2nd half
We’re just one month away from the NBA trade deadline, an important event that not only excites fans but also teams and players.
Predicting how active the trade deadline will be can be difficult since unexpected events often change the market. However, one thing is clear: by early January, teams that think they are contenders have already identified weaknesses in their rosters and are actively seeking solutions.
This year, the trade market is complicated by new salary cap “aprons,” which means bigger trades will likely need third teams to help make them possible. But it’s hard enough to get two teams to agree on a deal, let alone three or more.
With that in mind, here’s a look at the trade market for 15 teams, their needs, what they can trade, and the likelihood of making a major deal.
Eastern Conference
Boston Celtics
Roster need: Depth
What they can trade: The Celtics have three tradable first-round picks and six second-round picks. Guard Jaden Springer, who earns $4 million in the final year of his contract, is also a potential trade candidate.
Chances of a significant trade: Unlikely. Due to a $65 million luxury tax bill, any deals would likely focus on reducing salary to open up roster spots in case there’s a buyout candidate they want to pursue.
Cleveland Cavaliers
Roster need: Defensive wing
What they can trade: One first-round pick and eight second-round picks. They also have valuable bench players in the final years of their contracts, such as Caris LeVert ($16.6 million), Ty Jerome ($2.5 million), and Sam Merrill ($2.1 million).
Chances of a significant trade: Unlikely.
The team is playing well, with a 31-4 record and great chemistry. While they may consider their expiring contracts and picks, any deal would likely be small. They are also just $1.9 million into the luxury tax and might prefer to avoid it.
Milwaukee Bucks
Roster need: Perimeter defense
What they can trade: They have one tradable first-round pick and one second-round pick. Brook Lopez is on a $23 million expiring contract, and Khris Middleton ($32 million) and Bobby Portis ($12.5 million) both have player options for next summer.
Chances of a significant trade: Possible. Bucks GM Jon Horst has been active in looking for deals, though they face second apron restrictions. However, they are trying to make a deal.
New York Knicks
Roster need: Size and depth
What they can trade: One tradable first-round pick, eight second-round picks. Expiring contracts include Precious Achiuwa ($6 million), Cam Payne ($2 million), and Jericho Sims ($2 million). Mitchell Robinson ($14 million) has value but has been out this season.
Chances of a significant trade: Unlikely. The Knicks are close to the second apron and are hard-capped. Their main hope is getting Robinson back after his foot surgery.
Detroit Pistons and New York Knicks
Orlando Magic
Roster need: Shooting and offense
What they can trade: They have five tradable first-round picks and 12 second-round picks. They also have an $8 million trade exception and $21 million in space under the luxury tax. Expiring contracts include Gary Harris ($7.5 million) and Cory Joseph ($3.3 million).
Chances of a significant trade: Possible. The Magic have plenty of assets and space but need offensive talent. However, their front office is known to be conservative. Their last major trade for a rotation player was in 2019, when they acquired Markelle Fultz.
Philadelphia 76ers
Roster need: Frontcourt size
What they can trade: The 76ers have four tradable first-round picks and six second-round picks. They signed KJ Martin ($8 million) partly for use in a potential trade.
Chances of a significant trade: Possible. Daryl Morey is known for being active in trades, and he didn’t acquire those picks just to draft players. The 76ers are about $6 million below the second apron, giving Morey some flexibility to structure a trade. If no deal happens, it won’t be because they didn’t try.
Eastern Conference
Dallas Mavericks
Roster need: Defensive wing
What they can trade: They have two tradable first-round picks and two second-round picks. Maxi Kleber ($11 million) and Quentin Grimes ($4 million) are potential trade targets.
Chances of a significant trade: Possible. GM Nico Harrison has been aggressive with trades in the past, and last year’s acquisitions helped the Mavericks reach the Finals. Dallas has been very active in trade talks this season.
Denver Nuggets
Roster need: Shooting and depth
What they can trade: The Nuggets can’t trade any first-round picks, but they have one second-round pick. Michael Porter Jr. ($36 million) might be available for the right deal, and Zeke Nnaji ($9 million) has been available for some time.
Chances of a significant trade: Possible. The Nuggets discussed trading Porter for Zach LaVine earlier this season. While those talks have paused, their openness to trade Porter suggests the team may consider changes to their core, which has not performed as expected this season.
Phoenix Suns and Denver Nuggets
Golden State Warriors
Roster need: Star to pair with Steph Curry
What they can trade: The Warriors have three tradable first-round picks and two second-round picks. They have depth, with players like Gary Payton II ($9 million) and Kevon Looney ($7 million) on expiring contracts. Any major trade would likely involve Andrew Wiggins ($26 million).
Other teams might be interested in prospects like Jonathan Kuminga and Brandin Podziemski. Kuminga’s recent ankle injury complicates matters but isn’t as concerning as his restricted free agency in July.
Chances of a significant trade: Possible. The Warriors have considered trades for LeBron James, Paul George, and Lauri Markkanen in the past year. They already made one trade this season for Dennis Schroder.
Houston Rockets
Roster need: Shooting
What they can trade: The Rockets have four tradable first-round picks and five second-round picks. They also have valuable young players and some expiring contracts, like Steven Adams ($13 million), Jae’Sean Tate ($7 million), and Jeff Green ($8 million).
Chances of a significant trade: Unlikely. The Rockets are focused on building for the future and want their young players to grow together. They are in a position to pursue a superstar, but there doesn’t seem to be one available that they are ready to go all-in for, at least for now.
Los Angeles Lakers
Roster need: Perimeter defense, size
What they can trade: The Lakers have three tradable first-round picks and two second-round picks. They also have some mid-range salaries, such as Gabe Vincent’s ($11 million), Rui Hachimura’s ($17 million), and the injured Jarred Vanderbilt’s ($12 million), which could be combined in a trade.
Chances of a significant trade: Possible. They already made a deal for Dorian Finney-Smith, their first major trade in nearly two years. The Lakers still have first-round picks to use, but any teams willing to trade a big-name player may want Austin Reaves in return. The Lakers have shown no interest in moving him.
Memphis Grizzlies
Roster need: Wing defense
What they can trade: The Grizzlies own all of their first-round picks and can trade up to four of them, plus five second-round picks.
Chances of a significant trade: Possible. The Grizzlies feel they are close to making a serious playoff push and are acting accordingly. They were in talks to acquire Dorian Finney-Smith but lost out to the Lakers. They also have some expiring contracts, like Luke Kennard ($9 million, with trade veto power) and Jake LaRavia ($3 million), which could be used in a trade.
Memphis Grizzlies and Toronto Raptors
Minnesota Timberwolves
Roster need: Backup point guard
What they can trade: They can trade one first-round pick and three second-round picks.
Chances of a significant trade: Unlikely. Minnesota already made a big move by trading Karl-Anthony Towns for Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo.
With rookie Rob Dillingham still developing and dealing with an injury, the Timberwolves could use a backup guard for Mike Conley. However, the real question is whether they would trade Randle ($33 million), who doesn’t quite fit, in a big move. Right now, that doesn’t seem likely.
Oklahoma City Thunder
Roster need: Size, shot creation
What they can trade: They have up to 10 tradable first-round picks and 16 second-round picks. They also have many young players and some players on mid-range contracts. They have an $8 million trade exception and are $9.5 million below the luxury tax.
Chances of a significant trade: Possible. The Thunder have plenty of assets to make a trade, but they’ve said they prefer not to make midseason changes after last year’s deal for Gordon Hayward didn’t work out. They haven’t yet had their full roster together, which is one reason to delay making a trade. However, they have positioned themselves to outbid other teams if they find a player they want.
Phoenix Suns
Roster need: Stretch big man
What they can trade: They have one tradable first-round pick and three second-round picks. Jusuf Nurkic ($18 million) is available. Any big deal would likely involve Bradley Beal ($50 million), who has a no-trade clause. The Suns’ decision to remove both Beal and Nurkic from their starting lineup starting Monday sends a clear message about their potential trade plans.
Chances of a significant trade: Possible. While it’s hard to believe because the Suns have many trade restrictions and limited assets, they are still trying. They have been looking for a way to trade Beal, possibly for Jimmy Butler. A key point to remember is that Kevin Durant has one year left on his contract after this season and didn’t sign a short extension last summer.
Steve Kerr talks with Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry courtside during a break in the first half
The Golden State Warriors, led by head coach Steve Kerr, have been looking at two major trade moves to improve their team before the playoffs. One of their targets is Jimmy Butler, who could give Stephen Curry and the team the help they need to become serious contenders for the NBA Finals.
The Warriors have faced challenges this season, sparking trade rumors with Kerr aiming to make some big changes to the roster. Although they recently won 121-113 over the Memphis Grizzlies without Curry, doubts remain about their ability to compete for an NBA title.
The addition of Dennis Schroder has helped, but the Warriors might still be one or two key pieces away from returning to championship contention. Jimmy Butler and Myles Turner are two potential trade targets who could help turn things around.
Jimmy Butler has become the Warriors’ main target. The Miami Heat star is in a tough spot after serving a seven-game suspension, and there have been tensions between Butler and the Heat’s management, especially with Pat Riley. Both sides seem ready to move on, and Golden State is prepared to take advantage of this situation.
Butler’s value comes from his ability to perform in critical moments. A proven playoff player, he would give the Warriors a second scoring option alongside Curry. With 17.6 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 4.7 assists per game this season, Butler continues to be effective on both ends of the court.
His leadership, defense, and ability to step up in big moments make him a perfect fit for a team hoping for a deep playoff run.
Myles Turner, the Warriors’ second target, addresses a different need: a true center. Turner is averaging 15.3 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks per game this season, showing his value as a rim protector and floor spacer.
Jimmy Butler (NHL)
His ability to defend the paint with strength would let players like Curry and Draymond Green play more aggressively, knowing Turner is there to back them up.
On offense, Turner’s 39.1% shooting from three-point range would add another element to the Warriors’ system, perfectly fitting with their pace-and-space style. His mobility and shooting ability would mesh well with Golden State’s offensive strategies.
Proposed Trade: The Warriors would get Myles Turner, while the Pacers would receive Jonathan Kuminga, Brandin Podziemski, and a 2027 first-round pick from the Warriors.
However, getting Turner could come at a high cost, as the Warriors might have to give up young talents like Jonathan Kuminga and Brandin Podziemski. This raises concerns about the long-term impact on the team’s depth and future development.
As the Warriors weigh their options, they face a tough decision. They need to balance the immediate impact of adding Butler or Turner with their long-term goals. Butler would provide scoring, leadership, and clutch performances, while Turner would fix issues in the frontcourt with his defense and shooting.
The Warriors’ choice will depend on whether they prioritize improving their title chances now or keeping assets for future success. Either way, adding one of these stars would significantly improve their chances of becoming NBA title contenders again.
