It’s been lower than a 12 months since a blockbuster commerce shook the NBA to its core — Luka Dončić’s transfer to the Lakers — nevertheless it’s by no means too early to start out forecasting the subsequent wave of seismic offers forward of February’s commerce deadline.
Two months into the season, wants are clear, contenders are separating, and potential sellers are starting to emerge.
Giannis Antetokounmpo: The Greatest Domino
A Giannis Antetokounmpo commerce would match the star energy of final season’s Dončić deal. In contrast to Dončić — whose availability was a whole shock — Giannis’ scenario has been simmering for months. He’s already recognized to be exploring his long-term future along with his agent.
Antetokounmpo is at present sidelined with a proper calf pressure, however that wouldn’t cease a blockbuster from occurring. Dončić, in spite of everything, was additionally out with a calf pressure when he was moved.
The New York Knicks reportedly held talks with Milwaukee over the summer time and could possibly be much more motivated now as they sit second within the East. Including Giannis immediately elevates them into legit title-contender territory alongside the champion Oklahoma Metropolis Thunder.
Different potential suitors embrace:
- Miami Warmth
- San Antonio Spurs
- Houston Rockets
- Golden State Warriors (who’ve pulled off super-team strikes earlier than)
Anthony Davis: Plan B for Giannis Losers
Nov 8, 2025; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Injured Dallas Mavericks ahead Anthony Davis seems on from the bench throughout a timeout towards the Washington Wizards within the second half at Capital One Area. Necessary Credit score: Geoff Burke-Imagn Photographs Anthony Davis could possibly be a part of a second main blockbuster in beneath a 12 months after being the centerpiece of Dallas’ return for Dončić. When wholesome, Davis stays elite — however his lengthy damage historical past makes him a secondary, more cost effective choice for groups lacking out on Giannis.
Davis performed solely 9 video games for the Mavericks after final season’s commerce and simply 5 of the primary 19 this 12 months.
Groups linked to AD embrace:
- Detroit Pistons
- Toronto Raptors
- Atlanta Hawks
- Miami Warmth (once more, all the time lurking)
Ja Morant: Is Memphis Able to Transfer On?
Nov 15, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant (12) dribbles the ball within the first quarter towards the Cleveland Cavaliers at Rocket Area. Necessary Credit score: David Richard-Imagn Photographs Below .500 with a strained relationship between star and franchise, the Grizzlies could also be nearing the purpose of no return with Ja Morant. The Warmth — aggressive as they retool from the messy Jimmy Butler exit — are distinguished in these talks as effectively.
However would Miami actually half with Tyler Herro to get a deal executed?
Lauri Markkanen: Jazz at a Crossroads
Lauri Markkanen continues to carry out at an All-Star stage, however Utah’s endurance is carrying skinny as they attempt to break by way of. The franchise seems much less inclined to commerce him than they had been early within the season, however the clock is ticking.
The East-leading Pistons have the property to discover a Markkanen deal. He’s in Yr 1 of a four-year, $195.9 million contract. Utah has lower than two months to resolve in the event that they’re pushing for the playoffs or pivoting to a brand new path.
LaMelo Ball: A Flashy Match for the Proper Staff
Nov 19, 2025; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball (1) seems on within the first half towards the Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Necessary Credit score: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Photographs LaMelo Ball nonetheless has main defensive points, however his vitality, creativity, and scoring make him a premium commerce goal. A return to the Los Angeles space could possibly be precisely what the Clippers have to shake off the stagnation of their present core.
Nevertheless:
Their lack of first-round picks
Their need to keep away from a second straight 12 months within the luxurious tax
…may make the Mavericks, Rockets, or Magic higher commerce companions.
Trae Younger, James Harden & Extra Wildcards
Trae Younger — due again quickly from a knee damage — as soon as swapped locations with Dončić on draft night time. Might he be a part of one other main shakeup? A Younger-for-Harden swap with the Clippers has been floated.
As for Harden: the Clippers haven’t any incentive to tank, since their 2026 unprotected first belongs to OKC, but when a workforce turns into determined for elite scoring and prepared to tackle the wage, L.A. will pay attention.
