With the 2026 NBA trade deadline just two weeks away, the rumor mill is buzzing louder than ever. Almost every player is eligible to be moved, and league sources report that big names are starting to surface in serious discussions. The latest Trade Board update from The Athletic’s Sam Vecenie adds Ja Morant and Michael Porter Jr. to the mix, while confirming that stars like Karl-Anthony Towns, Jaren Jackson Jr., and LaMelo Ball are not currently being shopped.
Here’s a breakdown of the top trade candidates, ranked by their expected impact and trade value, complete with contract details, best potential landing spots, and why they could shake up the league.
1. Anthony Davis (Age 32, Big)
Even with a recent hand injury keeping him sidelined, Anthony Davis remains the most transformative player potentially available. His elite rim protection, mobility in pick-and-roll coverage, and overall defensive presence make him a title-game changer—especially for Eastern Conference contenders.
- Contract: $54.1M this season, player option in 2027-28
- Trade Value: High-end prospect + multiple first-round picks
- Best Fits: Pistons, Hawks, Raptors, Celtics
2. Michael Porter Jr. (Age 27, Wing)
Porter has exploded since his offseason move to Brooklyn, posting 25.8 points, 7.5 rebounds, and elite shooting efficiency. The 6-foot-10 forward is a deadly off-ball scorer, sharp cutter, and surprisingly strong rebounder with proven playoff defense.
- Contract: $38.3M this season, UFA in 2027
- Trade Value: High-end prospect + one first-round pick
- Best Fits: Teams like Detroit looking for a title swing
3. Ja Morant (Age 26, Guard)
The Grizzlies are openly taking calls on their star point guard, creating a classic buy-low opportunity. When healthy, Morant’s explosive athleticism and playmaking remain elite, as shown in strong stretches last season and international play.
- Contract: $39.4M this season, UFA in 2028
- Trade Value: Prospects + first-round pick
- Best Fits: Bucks, Clippers, Magic
4. Domantas Sabonis (Age 29, Big)
Sacramento is open for business, and Sabonis is the asset most likely to bring back significant value. The three-time All-Star is a skilled passer, screener, and rebounding machine, though his interior defense remains a concern.
- Contract: $42.3M this season, through 2028
- Trade Value: Salary match + one first-round pick
- Best Fits: Wizards, Raptors, Warriors
5. Coby White (Age 25, Guard)
White’s reintegration after injury has been bumpy, raising questions about his fit in Chicago. He’s a reliable young scorer and secondary ball-handler on an expiring deal, making him attractive to contenders.
- Contract: Expiring, UFA in 2026
- Trade Value: One first-round pick
- Best Fits: Mavericks, Clippers, Timberwolves, Magic, Bucks, Rockets
Other Notable Names on the Board
The list continues with solid contributors like Daniel Gafford (elite rim protector), Nic Claxton (versatile defender with growing offense), Bennedict Mathurin (young scoring wing), and veterans such as Nikola Vučević, Malik Monk, and Bobby Portis. Lower-tier options include defensive specialists like Jose Alvarado and Keon Ellis, plus young upside plays like Jarace Walker and Jeremy Sochan.
As the deadline nears, expect more names to surface and deals to materialize. Which move will shake up the contender landscape the most?
