On January 8, 2026, ESPN analysts published six hypothetical NBA trade proposals that could reshape the playoff chase as the February deadline approaches, offering strategic insights for contending teams. These speculative deals, analyzed by Zach Kram, Kevin Pelton, and Bobby Marks, aim to address key weaknesses and potentially alter postseason dynamics across the league.
The NBA trade season kicked off with the Atlanta Hawks trading Trae Young to the Washington Wizards, setting the stage for further moves. In response, ESPN outlined six trades designed to bolster playoff contenders, starting with the Milwaukee Bucks acquiring Michael Porter Jr. from the Brooklyn Nets. This deal would send Kyle Kuzma, Taurean Prince, and a 2031 first-round pick to Brooklyn, with the Detroit Pistons facilitating. Porter is envisioned as an ideal co-star for Giannis Antetokounmpo, enhancing the Bucks’ performance when their MVP rests, while the Nets could accelerate their rebuild by securing additional draft assets.
Second, the Los Angeles Lakers could address defensive struggles by trading for Keon Ellis from the Sacramento Kings in exchange for Dalton Knecht and a 2032 second-round pick. Ellis’ perimeter defense would help a Lakers team ranking 23rd in defensive rating, and acquiring his Bird rights provides future flexibility. The Kings benefit by gaining a young shooter in Knecht, who is under a controllable contract through 2027-28, offering long-term value.
Third, the Golden State Warriors are linked to a multi-team trade involving Trey Murphy III from the New Orleans Pelicans. The Warriors would send Jonathan Kuminga, Moses Moody, and multiple first-round picks to New Orleans, with the Utah Jazz taking Kevon Looney. Murphy’s 38% career three-point shooting would complement Stephen Curry’s offense, and the move could save Golden State $25 million in luxury tax. New Orleans acquires young talent and draft capital, while Utah facilitates with a trade exception.
Fourth, the Minnesota Timberwolves aim to solve point guard issues by trading for Tre Jones from the Chicago Bulls, offering Rob Dillingham and Terrence Shannon Jr. Jones’ steady ball-handling and low turnover rate could stabilize Minnesota’s offense, which has the worst clutch turnover rate in the league, supporting Anthony Edwards’ development. Chicago gains younger players with upside, though analysts question if Dillingham is ready for a rotational role.
Fifth, the San Antonio Spurs might add frontcourt depth by acquiring Guerschon Yabusele from the New York Knicks, with Cam Whitmore going to the Knicks and Jeremy Sochan to the Washington Wizards. Yabusele’s experience playing with Victor Wembanyama for the French national team makes him a logical fit, and the Spurs receive a second-round pick. The Wizards take a chance on Sochan’s potential, while the Knicks improve financial flexibility by moving Yabusele’s salary.
Sixth, the Toronto Raptors, facing center injuries, could trade for Brook Lopez from the LA Clippers, giving up Ochai Agbaji, Jamison Battle, and a second-round pick. Lopez’ playoff experience and defensive skills, allowing just 55% shooting at the rim this season, would fill a critical gap for Toronto. The Clippers get younger assets and open minutes for rookie center Yanic Konan Niederhauser, aligning with a youth movement.
These proposals highlight the strategic considerations as teams navigate salary caps and roster construction ahead of the deadline. Analysts note that moves like Jones to Minnesota or Ellis to Los Angeles could have significant playoff implications, potentially shifting the balance in both conferences. While not actual transactions, they reflect ongoing speculation and the pressure on franchises to maximize championship windows in the coming weeks.
