The NBA trade season officially begins this Sunday, with 87% of players becoming eligible for trades. As December 15 marks the lifting of restrictions on contracts signed during the summer, teams are assessing their rosters to prepare for the February 6 trade deadline. These pivotal weeks could shape the future for several franchises, including the Los Angeles Lakers, Golden State Warriors, Miami Heat, and more.
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This article dives into the major decisions facing key teams as the trade deadline approaches, exploring potential deals, player movements, and how these decisions could impact the season.
Los Angeles Lakers: To Build or to Rebuild?
LeBron James continues to be at the center of trade rumors, but all signs indicate he’s staying put. Despite speculation about a potential partnership with Stephen Curry at Golden State, sources suggest James has no intention of leaving Los Angeles.
The Lakers face significant challenges with their current roster. They lack depth, particularly at the guard and forward positions, and have limited assets to make impactful trades. With D’Angelo Russell’s expiring $18.6 million contract and two future first-round picks in 2029 and 2031, the Lakers may struggle to secure meaningful reinforcements.
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Key Question: Can the Lakers acquire the pieces needed to make a playoff push without sacrificing their future?
Golden State Warriors: Jonathan Kuminga’s Crossroads
The Warriors have entered a critical phase with Jonathan Kuminga, a promising but inconsistent talent. Over the past two weeks, head coach Steve Kerr has increased Kuminga’s minutes and responsibilities. Whether this is a genuine effort to develop him or a showcase for potential suitors remains unclear.
Golden State has the resources—young talent like Brandin Podziemski and draft picks—to pursue impactful trades. However, General Manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. has taken a cautious approach, focusing on maintaining flexibility while supporting Stephen Curry’s championship window.
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Key Question: Will the Warriors trade Kuminga to secure a deep playoff run?
New Orleans Pelicans: A Team on the Brink
Injuries have derailed the Pelicans’ season, pushing them to the bottom of the Western Conference standings. Opposing scouts are increasingly attending Pelicans games, signaling a belief that the team may soon become sellers.
The Pelicans could prioritize shedding luxury tax liabilities, especially as they owe $1.4 million in taxes this season. Moving even small salaries could significantly impact the team’s net income, making financial considerations a key driver of their trade activity.
Key Question: Will the Pelicans offload veteran players to reset for the future?
Miami Heat: Balancing Present and Future
Jimmy Butler’s status looms large over Miami’s trade considerations. Butler has a $52 million player option for next season and is expected to enter free agency if the Heat don’t extend his contract before the deadline. This creates a precarious situation for Miami, which risks losing its franchise cornerstone without compensation.
Financial concerns also weigh heavily on the Heat. As repeat luxury tax payers, they face stiff penalties if they don’t reset their tax status within the next two years. Any trade involving Butler or another key player will need to consider both short-term competitiveness and long-term flexibility.
Key Question: Can Miami find a trade that addresses both financial constraints and roster needs?
Atlanta Hawks: Young Core or Veteran Moves?
The Hawks are in an intriguing position with a mix of young talent and veterans. While Trae Young is thriving, leading the league in assists, Atlanta remains stuck in the play-in mix. Clint Capela’s expiring $22 million contract and Bogdan Bogdanovic’s team-friendly deal make them potential trade chips.
Trae Young’s efforts to build chemistry with rookies Dyson Daniels and Zaccharie Risacher have shown leadership growth. However, team officials are still working to address lingering cohesion issues within the roster.
Key Question: Will the Hawks trade veterans to fully embrace their young core?
Chicago Bulls: Zach LaVine’s Uncertain Future
Despite averaging career-best shooting numbers, Zach LaVine remains stuck in a holding pattern. His $89 million remaining salary and a $49 million player option for 2026-27 have cooled interest from other teams. Coupled with his injury history, LaVine’s trade market appears limited.
Center Nikola Vucevic, while performing well offensively, faces similar challenges. With the center position being one of the league’s deepest, the Bulls may find few takers for his $20 million salary.
Key Question: Can the Bulls find a way to move LaVine or Vucevic before their contracts become burdensome?
Philadelphia 76ers: Filling the Gaps
The 76ers have rebounded from a slow start but still face significant roster holes. Despite signing veteran Paul George in the offseason, the team remains thin at the forward position and ranks 28th in three-point shooting. KJ Martin’s $16 million trade-friendly contract and future first-round picks give Philadelphia some flexibility.
With Joel Embiid’s long-term commitment uncertain, the Sixers must decide whether to aggressively pursue trades to shore up their playoff chances.
Key Question: Will the 76ers go all-in to maximize their championship window with Embiid?
