NBA Trade Rumors: Lakers, Warriors, Heat, Pelicans, Hawks, Bulls, Sixers

December 13, 2024

The NBA trade season kicks off Sunday, with 87% of players becoming eligible to be dealt. This marks the beginning of a flurry of activity as teams seek to reshape their rosters ahead of the February 6 trade deadline.

ESPN’s latest report highlights several teams at a crossroads, each facing critical decisions about their futures. Let’s break down some of the biggest NBA trade stories to watch.

LAKERS: Forget the fantasy of LeBron James joining another team. NBA sources close to the Lakers say James has made it clear he wants to remain in Los Angeles, with the focus being on upgrading the roster around him.

With the Lakers sitting on D’Angelo Russell’s $18.6 million expiring contract and future first-round picks, they could make a move, but it won’t be easy.

Adding both a point guard and a big man is on the Lakers’ wish list, but they’ll have to get creative with their limited assets.

WARRIORS: The Warriors are weighing their future with Jonathan Kuminga. Recently thrust into the starting lineup by Steve Kerr, Kuminga is getting a chance to prove his worth.

However, his lack of a contract extension signals that the Warriors may not see him as a long-term piece just yet. A trade involving Kuminga could be in the cards if Golden State looks to bolster their playoff chances.

The Warriors are also building around young players like Brandin Podziemski and Moses Moody, which complicates their decision on Kuminga .

PELICANS: The Pelicans are sitting last in the West and with a crowded salary sheet, the buzz around their potential trades is growing.

Teams are sending scouts to New Orleans games, eager to get a read on their situation. The Pelicans are only slightly over the luxury tax but are eyeing deals that could save money, particularly with key players like Brandon Ingram and CJ McCollum potentially on the move.

Moving salary and avoiding tax penalties will be a major focus for New Orleans.

HEAT: Jimmy Butler is another player whose future is clouded with uncertainty. The Heat could trade Butler, especially with his looming $52 million player option for next season.

If Miami doesn’t extend him by the trade deadline, they risk losing him for nothing in free agency. Teams will be watching closely to see if the Heat make a move, as Butler’s value as a playoff performer makes him an enticing trade target.

HAWKS: The Hawks are committed to their young core, which includes Dyson Daniels, Jalen Johnson, Onyeka Okongwu, and Zaccharie Risacher.

But if the Hawks falter in their push for a playoff spot, they’ll be listening to offers on their veterans. Specifically, guard Bogdan Bogdanovic is drawing interest. His contract, while not a huge burden, is movable and offers shooting and scoring depth.

With Clint Capela’s expiring contract coming off the books after this season, the Hawks will have more financial flexibility to reshape their roster.

BULLS: Zach LaVine and Nikola Vucevic are still on the block. LaVine is having the best shooting season of his career, but his massive contract and injury history have made him difficult to move.

Despite his impressive play, teams are hesitant to take on his $89 million over the next two seasons.

Meanwhile, Vucevic is putting up great numbers, but the Bulls face a tough market for centers. His defensive shortcomings and $20 million salary next year make him a hard sell, despite his career-best shooting.

SIXERS: Philadelphia has stabilized after a rough start, but they’re still expected to be active ahead of the trade deadline.

They’ve got some key pieces to move, including KJ Martin, whose contract can’t be traded until January 15. The 76ers will likely look to add shooting and frontcourt depth, especially with Joel Embiid and Paul George dealing with injuries.

Martin’s contract gives them flexibility, but it might take until January to see how this all plays out.

With teams like the Lakers, Warriors, and Pelicans facing major roster decisions, this NBA trade season to be one of the most active in recent memory.

The next few weeks will give us a clearer picture of which teams are truly willing to make moves ahead of the deadline.