With the NBA trade deadline just 20 days away, ESPN analysts Tim Bontemps and Brian Windhorst have identified 10 teams that are poised to shape the final stretch of the trade season, highlighting key franchises like the Milwaukee Bucks, Golden State Warriors, and Dallas Mavericks as potential movers and shakers in the market. This analysis, published on January 16, 2026, comes as nearly all players have become trade-eligible, setting the stage for a frenetic three-week sprint to the February 5 deadline, with front offices across the league actively exploring deals to bolster rosters or cut costs.
The trade landscape is particularly fluid for contending teams looking to add talent. The Milwaukee Bucks, despite a middling record, are aggressively seeking to build around Giannis Antetokounmpo, with executives noting their creativity in asset management and available cap space. Similarly, the Golden State Warriors are navigating the Jonathan Kuminga saga, aiming to leverage his contract and draft picks to maximize Stephen Curry’s championship window, though their financial constraints under the second apron limit flexibility. The Toronto Raptors, driven by new ownership and playoff urgency, have been gauging interest in players like RJ Barrett while eyeing star acquisitions, though their long-term contracts pose challenges.
On the subtraction side, the Dallas Mavericks face a dilemma with Anthony Davis, whose $54.1 million salary and injury history complicate trade talks, with some sources suggesting a summer move might be more prudent. The Memphis Grizzlies are entertaining offers for Ja Morant, but interest has been tepid due to his contract and availability issues, with teams like the Miami Heat reportedly cautious. The Brooklyn Nets hold a valuable asset in Michael Porter Jr., whose scoring prowess is offset by injury concerns, making him a potential trade chip as they accumulate draft capital.
Several teams remain undecided on their deadline approach. The Atlanta Hawks, fresh from trading Trae Young, have expiring contracts and draft picks that could fuel further moves, possibly targeting big names despite a focus on long-term rebuilding. The Los Angeles Lakers are balancing the end of LeBron James’ career with future planning around Luka Dončić, with limited cap space restricting their ability to take on salary. The Boston Celtics, surprisingly competitive despite injuries, must choose between ducking the luxury tax or using Anfernee Simons’ expiring contract to add depth for a playoff push.
Other teams like the Minnesota Timberwolves are quietly seeking guard help but face salary matching issues and a lack of tradable first-round picks, likely leading to minor adjustments. The Detroit Pistons and San Antonio Spurs, both exceeding expectations, have the assets to make significant additions but may opt for caution to preserve long-term flexibility. Across the league, executives predict a deadline dominated by incremental moves rather than blockbusters, as apron restrictions and roster constraints dampen major trades.
The implications of these potential deals extend beyond individual teams, influencing playoff races and offseason strategies. For instance, a Bucks acquisition could shake up the Eastern Conference, while a Warriors trade might redefine the West. As the deadline nears, watch for teams like the Nets to act as facilitators in multi-team deals, using their cap space to absorb contracts for draft compensation. The final days will test front office creativity, with player health, contract timelines, and draft capital all playing critical roles in shaping the league’s competitive balance.
In conclusion, the NBA’s trade season is entering a crucial phase where a handful of teams—from contenders like the Bucks to rebuilders like the Hawks—could dictate the market’s tempo. While major stars may stay put, the activity around role players and expiring contracts will likely intensify, setting the stage for a busy February. Fans and analysts alike should monitor these 10 teams closely, as their decisions in the coming weeks could have lasting impacts on the 2026 playoffs and beyond, highlighting the high-stakes nature of midseason roster management in today’s NBA.
