NBA Trade Deadline 2026: Morant and Porter Jr. Shake Up the Market
With the NBA trade deadline just two weeks away, the rumor mill is spinning faster than ever. The latest update to the Trade Board features two blockbuster additions: Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant and Brooklyn Nets breakout Michael Porter Jr. While a recent swap saw Trae Young and CJ McCollum trade places, league sources indicate that names like Karl-Anthony Towns, Jaren Jackson Jr., and LaMelo Ball are not currently being shopped.
Every player without a recent long-term extension is eligible to be moved, and the landscape is fluid as teams look to make their pushes.
Spotlight: New High-Profile Names
Ja Morant, Memphis Grizzlies
Age: 26 | Position: Guard | Contract: Through 2028
The Grizzlies are fielding calls on their explosive point guard. Despite injury concerns and inconsistent shooting this season, Morant’s elite athleticism keeps him among the league’s most dynamic talents. His salary sits at $39.4 million this year, rising significantly over the next two seasons.
Trade Value: Prospects plus a first-round pick
Best Fits: Milwaukee Bucks, LA Clippers, Orlando Magic
Michael Porter Jr., Brooklyn Nets
Age: 27 | Position: Wing | Contract: Through 2027
Porter has thrived in Brooklyn, averaging 25.8 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 3.2 assists. His scoring prowess makes him one of the most attractive wings available.
Trade Value: High-end prospect plus a first-round pick
Best Fit: Detroit Pistons for added firepower
Top of the Board
1. Anthony Davis
Age: 32 | Position: Big | Contract: Player option 2028
Despite a current hand injury, Davis remains the premier trade target. Earning $54.1 million this season and $58.5 million next, his two-way dominance commands a massive return.
Trade Value: High-end prospect plus multiple first-round picks
Best Fits: Detroit Pistons, Atlanta Hawks, Toronto Raptors, Boston Celtics
4. Domantas Sabonis, Sacramento Kings
Age: 29 | Position: Big | Contract: Through 2028
The Kings are open to discussions on their All-Star big, a premier passer and rebounder but a defensive liability. Salary: $42.3 million this year.
Trade Value: Salary match plus a first-round pick
Best Fits: Washington Wizards, Toronto Raptors, Golden State Warriors
Notable First-Round Pick Caliber Targets
- Coby White (Age 25, Guard, Expiring 2026) – Averaging 18.1 points and 4.5 assists despite injuries. Best fits: Mavericks, Clippers, Timberwolves, Magic, Bucks, Rockets.
- Daniel Gafford (Age 27, Big, Through 2029) – Reliable rim protector on a team-friendly extension. Best fit: Indiana Pacers.
- Nic Claxton (Age 26, Big, Through 2028) – Mobile defender with growing offensive game.
- Bennedict Mathurin (Age 23, Wing, Restricted 2026) – Scoring wing recovering from injuries.
- Ayo Dosunmu (Age 25, Guard, Expiring 2026) – Efficient two-way guard on a cheap deal.
Additional Trade Candidates
- Jonathan Kuminga (Warriors) – Athletic forward who requested a trade.
- Malik Monk – Dynamic scorer with defensive concerns.
- Zach LaVine – High-usage scorer available for salary matching.
- Jerami Grant (Trail Blazers) – Viewed as a salary dump candidate.
- Kyle Kuzma, D’Angelo Russell, Bogdan Bogdanović, and veterans like DeMar DeRozan, Chris Paul, and Andre Drummond round out a deep list of potential salary relief or rotation pieces.
As the deadline approaches, expect more names to surface and deals to materialize in what promises to be an active trade season.
