As we approach the February 6 NBA trade deadline, it’s clear that centers are once again the focal point of many in-season trade discussions.
While there have already been four trades made this season, two have notably involved big men. With more moves expected, multiple teams are actively exploring trade possibilities involving their frontcourt players.
According to NBA insiders Marc Stein and Jake Fischer, the Utah Jazz are “actively exploring the market” for forward/center John Collins, who could be one of the more notable names on the move.
The Washington Wizards are also weighing options with their center Jonas Valanciunas, though sources suggest they won’t just send him to the highest bidder; the Wizards are looking for a specific return.
Similarly, the Chicago Bulls have been fielding trade inquiries about center Nikola Vučević for several weeks now.
Interestingly, the Golden State Warriors have reportedly checked in on all three big men — Collins, Valanciunas, and Vucevic — as they look to strengthen their roster ahead of the postseason. The Warriors’ interest in bolstering their frontcourt depth could set the stage for some intriguing moves in the coming weeks.
- In other trade chatter, the Charlotte Hornets are reportedly open to discussions on a number of players.
- After shipping Nick Richards to the Phoenix Suns, the Hornets’ front office, led by Jeff Peterson, is still “listening to everything” as they look to build a sustainable contender. Josh Green, Cody Martin, Vasilije Micic, and second-year guard Nick Smith are all said to be available in trade talks.
- As for the Toronto Raptors, veteran swingman Bruce Brown has long been considered a trade candidate, but his expiring $23 million contract and a recovery from offseason knee surgery have hindered movement.
- However, Chris Boucher — with his $10.8 million expiring deal — could be a more viable trade piece, as his contract is seen as “very movable.”
- Meanwhile, the Cleveland Cavaliers made waves in the offseason when they signed Jarrett Allen to a three-year, $91 million extension, ensuring that he would be trade-eligible by February 2. But the Cavs have made it clear that Allen, along with Donovan Mitchell, Darius Garland, and Evan Mobley, are off-limits.
- Despite their strong start to the season, Cleveland has been “listening to pitches” on other players, though they are “generally reluctant” to disrupt their team chemistry at this stage, Stein reported.
- Lastly, second-round picks — specifically those in the early 30s — are seen as highly valuable in NBA trade talks, largely due to the new tax apron restrictions that limit teams’ flexibility, Stein noted. Teams looking to make deals are placing a premium on these picks, as they could offer additional flexibility in future years.
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