The NBA Trade Deadline, set for Thursday, February 5, is once again poised to be one of the defining moments of the season. With contenders looking to strengthen their rosters and rebuilding teams seeking future assets, movement across the league is expected.

Ivica Zubac

Interest in the Serbian centre is already gathering pace, with the Boston Celtics and Indiana Pacers both monitoring his situation. Boston are short on dependable interior presence, while Indiana continue to feel the effects of losing Myles Turner. Zubac’s strong individual start to the season, combined with the Clippers’ recent success without him, makes a trade increasingly plausible. His team-friendly contract only adds to his appeal.

2025/26 stats: 15.0 points, 11.0 rebounds
Salary: $18.1m (2025/26), $19.6m (2026/27), $21.0m (2027/28)
Trade likelihood: 90%

CJ McCollum

Now with Washington following a deal that sent Jordan Poole the other way, McCollum has seen a slight dip in production but remains a reliable scorer and leader. His name has surfaced in discussions surrounding a potential Trae Young trade, and it’s expected that several contenders will explore his availability as the deadline approaches.

2025/26 stats: 18.8 points, 39.3% from three
Salary: $33.3m (2025/26), $30.7m (2026/27)
Trade likelihood: 80%

Cam Thomas

One of the biggest question marks on this list. Thomas has broken out over the past two seasons, averaging over 20 points per game as Brooklyn’s primary scoring option. However, the Nets have yet to secure a contract extension, and with his deal expiring soon, trade speculation has intensified. Given his scoring ability and affordable contract, he would be an attractive addition for any contender.

2025/26 stats: 21.0 points, 36.4% from three (12 games)
Salary: $6.0m (2025/26)
Trade likelihood: 80%

Zion Williamson

A familiar storyline resurfaces. Despite ongoing injury concerns and inconsistency, Williamson remains an elite offensive force when healthy. The Pelicans possess a solid supporting cast but may be approaching a crossroads after several underwhelming seasons. With Zion currently fit and productive, his trade value is arguably as high as it has been in years.

2025/26 stats: 22.5 points, 5.8 rebounds
Salary: $39.4m (2025/26), $42.2m (2026/27), $44.9m (2027/28)
Trade likelihood: 30%

Anthony Davis

One year after his high-profile move to Dallas, Davis no longer appears aligned with the franchise’s long-term timeline. Atlanta have already made inquiries, though talks stalled. Teams know what they get with Davis: elite talent paired with durability concerns. The challenge will be finding a suitor willing to absorb his massive contract.

2025/26 stats: 20.4 points, 10.8 rebounds, 1.7 blocks
Salary: $54.1m (2025/26), $58.5m (2026/27), $62.8m (2027/28, player option)
Trade likelihood: 40%

DeMar DeRozan

With championship aspirations before retirement, DeRozan currently finds himself on a struggling Western Conference side. As the Sacramento Kings continue to be linked with roster upheaval, a move feels increasingly likely. His contract is manageable, his production reliable, and time is running out for one last title push.

2025/26 stats: 18.3 points, 3.8 assists
Salary: $24.8m (2025/26), $25.7m (2026/27)
Trade likelihood: 90%

Nikola Vučević

At 35, Vučević is approaching the twilight of his career but still offers offensive value. With limited long-term interest around the league, a buyout scenario appears more likely than a trade, potentially allowing him to join a contender as a backup centre.

2025/26 stats: 16.5 points, 8.9 rebounds
Salary: $21.5m (2025/26)
Trade or buyout likelihood: 90%

Jarrett Allen

After a regular-season high point last year, Cleveland’s playoff disappointment has left the franchise searching for answers. Allen’s skill set overlaps with Evan Mobley’s, and his reasonable contract could make him the odd man out if the Cavaliers decide to shake things up.

2025/26 stats: 13.7 points, 7.8 rebounds
Salary: $20.0m (2025/26), rising to $32.5m by 2028/29
Trade likelihood: 20%

RJ Barrett

With Scottie Barnes firmly established as the leader, Brandon Ingram rediscovering form, and Immanuel Quickley continuing to develop, Barrett’s role in Toronto appears increasingly uncertain. Despite playing for his home-country franchise, he may be growing weary of being a complementary piece rather than a focal point.

2025/26 stats: 19.2 points, 5.0 rebounds
Salary: $27.7m (2025/26), $29.6m (2026/27)
Trade likelihood: 50%

Trae Young

The marquee name of this trade deadline. Atlanta appear ready to move on, and Young is officially available. A brilliant offensive talent but a defensive liability, he could still anchor a rebuild for a franchise seeking star power. Interest from the Wizards, Bucks and Clippers has already been reported, with bidding expected to intensify before February 5.

2025/26 stats: 19.3 points, 8.9 assists (10 games)
Salary: $46.0m (2025/26), $49.0m (2026/27, player option)
Trade likelihood: 95%