NBA
HomeScoresRumorsHighlightsDraftB/R 99: Ranking Best NBA Players
Featured Video
Bridges Misses Game-Winning Shot 🫣
SACRAMENTO, CA - JANUARY 25: O.G. Anunoby #3, Gary Trent Jr. #33, Pascal Siakam #43, and Fred VanVleet #23 of the Toronto Raptors walk off the court during the game against the Sacramento Kings on January 25, 2023 at Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE (Photo by Rocky Widner/NBAE via Getty Images)
SACRAMENTO, CA - JANUARY 25: O.G. Anunoby #3, Gary Trent Jr. #33, Pascal Siakam #43, and Fred VanVleet #23 of the Toronto Raptors walk off the court during the game against the Sacramento Kings on January 25, 2023 at Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE (Photo by Rocky Widner/NBAE via Getty Images)Rocky Widner/NBAE via Getty Images

Final Trade Target Lists for Every NBA Team

Zach BuckleyFeb 8, 2023

The 2023 NBA trade deadline is almost here, and all eyes are on the Toronto Raptors.

Or Kevin Durant.

Or maybe the Utah Jazz. Or the Los Angeles Lakers, since all eyes are kind of always on them, anyway. Or (at least) a dozen other teams who could shake things up and reshape the basketball landscape.

The point is, things are about to get wild. Or stay wild, rather. Kyrie Irving has already found a new team. Who's up next to swap jerseys?

Sadly, I can't tell you that with any certainty. My crystal ball is acting up. Brutal timing, right? What I can do, though, is create each club's likely deadline shopping list using team needs, trade budgets and a realistic pool of trade candidates.

Atlanta Hawks

1 of 30
SALT LAKE CITY, UT - JANUARY 14: Malik Beasley #5 of the Utah Jazz shoots a three point basket during the game against the Philadelphia 76ers on January 14, 2023 at vivint.SmartHome Arena in Salt Lake City, Utah. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2022 NBAE (Photo by Melissa Majchrzak/NBAE via Getty Images)
SALT LAKE CITY, UT - JANUARY 14: Malik Beasley #5 of the Utah Jazz shoots a three point basket during the game against the Philadelphia 76ers on January 14, 2023 at vivint.SmartHome Arena in Salt Lake City, Utah. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2022 NBAE (Photo by Melissa Majchrzak/NBAE via Getty Images)

Trade targets: Malik Beasley, Matisse Thybulle, Cory Joseph

After trading away Kevin Huerter and watching both Trae Young and John Collins suffer through the worst shooting seasons of their careers, the Hawks need spacers. Add a sharpshooter like Beasley to the mix, and maybe Atlanta's 15th-ranked offense can start resembling its second-ranked attack from a year ago.

If its offense isn't going to improve, then its 19th-ranked defense needs to level up. A disruptive presence like Thybulle (4.2 combined steals and blocks per 36 minutes for his career) could help the Hawks generate more defensive stops and transition opportunities.

The Hawks could also covet a more established lead guard for their second unit than Aaron Holiday, which might put Joseph (a pesky defender and clever distributor) on the radar.

Boston Celtics

2 of 30
SACRAMENTO, CA - JANUARY 20: Mike Muscala #33 of the Oklahoma City Thunder looks on during the game against the Sacramento Kings on January 20, 2023 at Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE (Photo by Rocky Widner/NBAE via Getty Images)
SACRAMENTO, CA - JANUARY 20: Mike Muscala #33 of the Oklahoma City Thunder looks on during the game against the Sacramento Kings on January 20, 2023 at Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE (Photo by Rocky Widner/NBAE via Getty Images)

Trade targets: Mike Muscala, Nerlens Noel, Terrence Ross

Given Robert Williams III's injury history and Al Horford's age (36), it makes sense for the Celtics to seek out an insurance policy in the frontcourt. What doesn't make sense, though, is paying a premium to fill this part-time role. In other words, while the idea of Jakob Poeltl in Boston is fun, the reality of meeting his trade cost—two first-round picks, per The Athletic's Jared Weiss—should convince the Shamrocks to stay away.

A more cost-effective big would suffice. Muscala is a 6'10" center with a career 37.8 percent splash rate from three. Noel, a Massachusetts native, is a chaos-creator on defense with the length and athleticism to protect the rim and quick enough hands to generate steals. If Boston is fine with a specialist in this niche role, it can really choose offense or defense here.

The Celtics also need more support scoring off the bench and more shooting from their role players. Ross is a walking spark plug whose 38.1 three-point percentage is his highest mark in four seasons.

Brooklyn Nets

3 of 30
MEMPHIS, TN - FEBRUARY 5: Pascal Siakam #43 of the Toronto Raptors looks on during the game against the Memphis Grizzlies on February 5, 2023 at FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE (Photo by Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images)
MEMPHIS, TN - FEBRUARY 5: Pascal Siakam #43 of the Toronto Raptors looks on during the game against the Memphis Grizzlies on February 5, 2023 at FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE (Photo by Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images)

Trade targets: Pascal Siakam, Fred VanVleet, Naz Reid

Prior to last season's deadline, Kevin Durant had a pair of All-Stars at his side in James Harden and Kyrie Irving. Both have since bounced out of Brooklyn, and now Durant's lone teammate with an All-Star selection in his past is the ghost of Ben Simmons.

Brooklyn should go for broke to try adding a second star. The Nets have shown interest in both Siakam and VanVleet, per Marc Stein, and they should keep blowing up Masai Ujiri's phone lines to get something done. Siakam would cost a fortune, but the do-it-all forward is worth it. VanVleet, who will need a new deal this summer, should be less expensive but won't come cheap given his connectivity at both ends.

If the Nets don't go the star-chasing route—given how some of their recent pursuits have panned out, who could blame them?—then they have to add size behind Nic Claxton. The 6'9", 264-pound Reid would suffice, and his ability to stretch the floor would allow Brooklyn to play a spread-out style without sacrificing size.

TOP NEWS

Brooklyn Nets v Milwaukee Bucks
Minnesota Timberwolves v Denver Nuggets - Game One
Atlanta Hawks v New York Knicks - Game Two

Charlotte Hornets

4 of 30
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - OCTOBER 26:  Obi Toppin #1 of the New York Knicks celebrates his basket int he first half against the Charlotte Hornets at Madison Square Garden on October 26, 2022 in New York City. The New York Knicks defeated the Charlotte Hornets 134-131 in overtime. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - OCTOBER 26: Obi Toppin #1 of the New York Knicks celebrates his basket int he first half against the Charlotte Hornets at Madison Square Garden on October 26, 2022 in New York City. The New York Knicks defeated the Charlotte Hornets 134-131 in overtime. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)

Trade targets: Draft picks, Obi Toppin, Cam Thomas

The vibes in Buzz City are brutal, and not only because the Hornets are lugging around a sub-.300 winning percentage. The bigger worry is the uncertainty of how Charlotte will ever turn things around. A team with a 21-year-old centerpiece like LaMelo Ball shouldn't have a long-term outlook this bleak, but Charlotte has to put some blue-chip prospects around him to change that.

Turning established pros like Terry Rozier, Kelly Oubre Jr. and Mason Plumlee—and, fingers-crossed, Gordon Hayward?—into draft considerations is one option.

Another is plucking prospects away from win-now teams. Pair Toppin with a floor general like Ball, and Toppin's box scores could go berserk. Speaking of berserk, if Thomas' scoring binge hasn't already made him off-limits, the Hornets should be in hot pursuit of the walking bucket.

Chicago Bulls

5 of 30
DALLAS, TX - MAY 12: Jae Crowder #99 of the Phoenix Suns. looks on during the game against the Dallas Mavericks during Game 6 of the 2022 NBA Playoffs Western Conference Semifinals on May 12, 2022 at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2022 NBAE (Photo by Glenn James/NBAE via Getty Images)
DALLAS, TX - MAY 12: Jae Crowder #99 of the Phoenix Suns. looks on during the game against the Dallas Mavericks during Game 6 of the 2022 NBA Playoffs Western Conference Semifinals on May 12, 2022 at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2022 NBAE (Photo by Glenn James/NBAE via Getty Images)

Trade targets: Jae Crowder, Alec Burks, Max Strus

The consensus out of Chicago seems to indicate that a blow-up isn't coming (at least, not at the trade deadline), although it sounds like Alex Caruso isn't totally untouchable, so who knows?

Assuming the Bulls' aim is maximizing competitiveness, though, then they need to nab a two-way wing.

Crowder's size, toughness and experience would make him a snug fit, assuming he can quickly find his rhythm after sitting out the season to this point. Burks would bring shot-making, defense and a pinch of shot-creation. Strus, whose upcoming free agency might price him out of Miami, fits your classic three-and-D mold, although he's more "three" than "D."

Cleveland Cavaliers

6 of 30
CHICAGO, IL - FEBRUARY 06: San Antonio Spurs Guard Josh Richardson (7) passes the ball during a NBA game between the San Antonio  Spurs and the Chicago Bulls on February 6, 2023 at the United Center in Chicago, IL. (Photo by Melissa Tamez/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
CHICAGO, IL - FEBRUARY 06: San Antonio Spurs Guard Josh Richardson (7) passes the ball during a NBA game between the San Antonio Spurs and the Chicago Bulls on February 6, 2023 at the United Center in Chicago, IL. (Photo by Melissa Tamez/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

Trade targets: Josh Richardson, Jae Crowder, Cam Reddish

Cleveland's preseason questions at small forward remain unanswered. Admittedly, it's possible none of these three players would answer those questions, either, but given the Cavs' trade budget after the Donovan Mitchell deal, these might be the best options available.

Bigger wings can give Richardson problems, but he's generally a plucky defender. He also has 30 games of playoff experience, a three-ball that typically lands somewhere between above-average and good and a pinch of shot-creation. Crowder has more size and experience, but his shot is streakier, and that could give the Cavaliers pause, since they already start two non-shooters in Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen.

If Cleveland doesn't want to spend that much, it might make sense to kick the tires on Reddish. He hasn't produced much to this point, but you don't have to squint too hard to picture the 23-year-old eventually thriving in a three-and-D role.

Dallas Mavericks

7 of 30
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 27: O.G. Anunoby #3 of the Toronto Raptors dribbling the ball drives towards the basket against the Golden State Warriors during the first quarter of an NBA basketball game at Chase Center on January 27, 2023 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 27: O.G. Anunoby #3 of the Toronto Raptors dribbling the ball drives towards the basket against the Golden State Warriors during the first quarter of an NBA basketball game at Chase Center on January 27, 2023 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)

Trade targets: O.G. Anunoby, Alex Caruso, Josh Hart

Dallas has had a disastrous season on the defensive end, slipping from seventh to 24th in efficiency. Pairing Luka Dončić with Kyrie Irving won't help that. Doing so at the expense of Dorian Finney-Smith will actively hurt it.

That's why the Mavs should cobble together their remaining assets—plus the kitchen sink, dishwasher, air fryer and any other appliance within reach—and hope that's enough to pry Anunoby out of Toronto. Fair warning, it probably isn't, but his lockdown defense and perpetually improving offense would make him the perfect third banana for this bunch.

If that's too rich for Dallas, then chasing a defense-first perimeter player like Caruso or Hart makes sense. Caruso knows how to make an impact alongside stars after teaming with LeBron James and Anthony Davis in L.A. and now Zach LaVine and DeMar DeRozan in Chicago. Hart's off-ball movement and transition attacks would make this Mavs offense even harder to handle.

Denver Nuggets

8 of 30
MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE - JANUARY 29: Chris Duarte #3 of the Indiana Pacers brings the ball up court during the game against the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum on January 29, 2023 in Memphis, Tennessee. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Justin Ford/Getty Images)
MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE - JANUARY 29: Chris Duarte #3 of the Indiana Pacers brings the ball up court during the game against the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum on January 29, 2023 in Memphis, Tennessee. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Justin Ford/Getty Images)

Trade targets: Chris Durate, Terance Mann, Mo Bamba

The Nuggets have an intriguing trade chip in Bones Hyland. They also have a 15th-ranked defense that isn't quite at championship level.

Swapping out Hyland's offense for a sturdy defender is the smart play. Both Duarte and Mann, Denver target's according to Action Network's Matt Moore, could be had in that type of swap.

The Nuggets also need a backup big behind Nikola Jokić. Bamba could fill that void while supplying both shot-blocking and three-point shooting.

Detroit Pistons

9 of 30
CHICAGO, IL - FEBRUARY 6: Patrick Williams #44 of the Chicago Bulls shoots the ball during the game against the San Antonio Spurs on February 6, 2023 at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2022 NBAE (Photo by Gary Dineen/NBAE via Getty Images).
CHICAGO, IL - FEBRUARY 6: Patrick Williams #44 of the Chicago Bulls shoots the ball during the game against the San Antonio Spurs on February 6, 2023 at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2022 NBAE (Photo by Gary Dineen/NBAE via Getty Images).

Trade targets: Draft picks, Patrick Williams, Kenyon Martin Jr.

For reasons known only to them, the Pistons think they can field a competitive club next season, despite this being Detroit's third straight year with a sub-.300 winning percentage. That's apparently why "there doesn't appear to be much urgency" to deal Bojan Bogdanović and Alec Burks, per The Athletic's James L. Edwards III.

Either the Pistons are posturing, or they need to really reconsider their stance. This is a rebuilding franchise in every sense. Holding onto 30-somethings with significant trade value like Bogdanović and Burks both have doesn't fit the team's timeline. Hopefully, the Pistons are just looking for leverage here and will eventually settle on the highest bids before the buzzer sounds.

If Detroit wants to chase some talent, then it should circle up-and-comers like Williams and Martin. The former isn't quite as polished or productive as the Bulls want, and the latter has been looking for a chance to spread his wings in a less crowded frontcourt than Houston has.

Golden State Warriors

10 of 30
SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH - FEBRUARY 01: Jarred Vanderbilt #8 of the Utah Jazz reacts during the second half of a game against the Toronto Raptors at Vivint Arena on February 01, 2023 in Salt Lake City, Utah. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images)
SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH - FEBRUARY 01: Jarred Vanderbilt #8 of the Utah Jazz reacts during the second half of a game against the Toronto Raptors at Vivint Arena on February 01, 2023 in Salt Lake City, Utah. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images)

Trade targets: Jarred Vanderbilt, Jae Crowder, Isaiah Hartenstein

The Warriors need more reliability in their frontcourt—both at the center spot and on the wings.

Vanderbilt might help in both areas, as he has seen action at the 3, 4 and 5 spots in his career. He is energetic and active on the interior, but he's also a sneaky-good passer and a highly switchable defender.

Crowder would give Golden State a big-wing defender with a wealth of playoff experience and an off-and-on three-ball. Hartenstein's paint protection would beef up this defense, but he could also help the offense as a passer out of high pick-and-rolls.

Houston Rockets

11 of 30
MINNEAPOLIS, MN -  FEBRUARY 3: Mo Bamba #11 of the Orlando Magic looks on during the game against the Minnesota Timberwolves on February 3, 2023 at Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE (Photo by David Sherman/NBAE via Getty Images)
MINNEAPOLIS, MN - FEBRUARY 3: Mo Bamba #11 of the Orlando Magic looks on during the game against the Minnesota Timberwolves on February 3, 2023 at Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE (Photo by David Sherman/NBAE via Getty Images)

Trade targets: Draft picks, Mo Bamba, Darius Bazley

The rebuilding Rockets are...well, rebuilding. They're the Association's only team winning fewer than 25 percent of its games, and they've been undone by both inconsistent offense and a way-too-leaky defense.

These are all the hallmarks of a young roster, though, so there's hardly reason to panic in Houston. The Rockets should focus on drafting and developing talent, and they might add to their pile of picks with a long overdue Eric Gordon trade.

If Houston adds players, it should focus on finding undervalued youth. Bamba and Bazley could both fit the bill, since each has seen a major role reduction this season.

Indiana Pacers

12 of 30
PHOENIX, ARIZONA - FEBRUARY 01: John Collins #20 of the Atlanta Hawks dribbles the ball during the game against the Phoenix Suns at Footprint Center on February 01, 2023 in Phoenix, Arizona. The Hawks beat the Suns 132-100. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that,  by downloading and or using this photograph,  User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Chris Coduto/Getty Images)
PHOENIX, ARIZONA - FEBRUARY 01: John Collins #20 of the Atlanta Hawks dribbles the ball during the game against the Phoenix Suns at Footprint Center on February 01, 2023 in Phoenix, Arizona. The Hawks beat the Suns 132-100. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Chris Coduto/Getty Images)

Trade targets: John Collins, Jarred Vanderbilt, Grant Williams

The Pacers need a power forward in the worst kind of way. And they know it.

That's why both Collins and Vanderbilt are on Indy's radar, per HoopsHype's Michael Scotto. Either could be a clean fit with Myles Turner up front with Collins offering more scoring and Vanderbilt bringing more defense.

Williams might be another option, though only if Boston has no intention of footing the bill for his upcoming restricted free agency. He can soak up minutes at either frontcourt spot, and his catch-and-fire three-point stroke (connecting at a 40.3 percent clip) would serve as a safety valve for Tyrese Haliburton and Bennedict Mathurin.

Los Angeles Clippers

13 of 30
ORLANDO, FL - JANUARY 28: Alex Caruso #6 of the Chicago Bulls dribbles the ball during the game against the Orlando Magic on January 28, 2023 at Amway Center in Orlando, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE (Photo by Fernando Medina/NBAE via Getty Images)
ORLANDO, FL - JANUARY 28: Alex Caruso #6 of the Chicago Bulls dribbles the ball during the game against the Orlando Magic on January 28, 2023 at Amway Center in Orlando, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE (Photo by Fernando Medina/NBAE via Getty Images)

Trade targets: Alex Caruso, D'Angelo Russell, Chris Boucher

The Clippers, like a lot of teams, could be on the hunt for point guards and centers. They made an aggressive offer for Kyrie Irving that included Luke Kennard, Terance Mann and a future first-round pick, per The Ringer's Kevin O'Connor.

A defense-first guard who doesn't dominate the ball like Caruso seems ideal, since so much of L.A.'s offense runs through Kawhi Leonard and Paul George (insert the always necessary "when healthy" caveat here). Still, the attempt to land Irving shows some desire for more shot-creation, and Russell is apparently on the radar for that reason.

The Clippers don't need to pay a premium for a center, since Ivica Zubac is at least a solid starter at the position. If Boucher wouldn't cost much, he'd be an interesting add given his combination of rim protection and floor spacing.

Los Angeles Lakers

14 of 30
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - FEBRUARY 04: Head coach Billy Donovan of the Chicago Bulls talks with Zach LaVine #8 against the Portland Trail Blazers during the second half at United Center on February 04, 2023 in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - FEBRUARY 04: Head coach Billy Donovan of the Chicago Bulls talks with Zach LaVine #8 against the Portland Trail Blazers during the second half at United Center on February 04, 2023 in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)

Trade targets: Zach LaVine, Bojan Bogdanović, Buddy Hield

Just to be clear, if the Lakers didn't have enough to land Irving, they probably don't have enough to get LaVine, either. Still, the high-scoring guard isn't considered "off the table," per Action Network's Matt Moore, and L.A. can't afford to ignore any potentially available star. It's hard to see the Bulls letting him go, but given his knee troubles and colossal contract, there's a non-zero chance he surfaces in a deadline stunner.

Otherwise, the Lakers' aim should be improving their unforgivably inept collection of shooters. Given the need for optimal spacing around LeBron James and Anthony Davis, you'd think the Lakers would be swimming in net-shredders. Instead, L.A. is dead last in made threes and 26th in long-range accuracy.

Bogdanović and Hield, two elite shooters, would allow this offense to breathe. That isn't worth both of the Lakers' future firsts (2027 and 2029), but if one is enough, the Lakers could pounce.

Memphis Grizzlies

15 of 30
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 27: O.G. Anunoby #3 of the Toronto Raptors dribbling the ball drives towards the basket against the Golden State Warriors during the first quarter of an NBA basketball game at Chase Center on January 27, 2023 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 27: O.G. Anunoby #3 of the Toronto Raptors dribbling the ball drives towards the basket against the Golden State Warriors during the first quarter of an NBA basketball game at Chase Center on January 27, 2023 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)

Trade targets: O.G. Anunoby, Malik Beasley, Alec Burks

The Grizzlies have been mostly great this season, but they still have enough flaws to wonder if they're fully ready for a championship run. The pace typically slows in the postseason, meaning Memphis can't count on squeezing so much out of its transition attack (second-most fast-break points) and could have problems creating in the half-court (23rd in efficiency, per Cleaning the Glass).

Memphis should look to upgrade on the wings, and it might have the trade chips needed to land Anunoby. He might be the league's best on-ball defender (fourth in defensive estimated plus/minus, per Dunks & Threes), and his offense has never been better. He can function as both a play finisher and a shot creator.

If the Grizzlies can't get Anunoby (or don't want to pay that much), they should go after an offensive-minded perimeter player with a live three-ball. Beasley and Burks are two of the top reasonably priced players in that mold.

Miami Heat

16 of 30
WASHINGTON, DC - FEBRUARY 03: Bradley Beal #3 of the Washington Wizards reacts after being called for second half foul against the Portland Trail Blazers at Capital One Arena on February 03, 2023 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images)
WASHINGTON, DC - FEBRUARY 03: Bradley Beal #3 of the Washington Wizards reacts after being called for second half foul against the Portland Trail Blazers at Capital One Arena on February 03, 2023 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images)

Trade targets: Bradley Beal, Zach LaVine, Terry Rozier

The Heat are open for business. As they should be. Just one season removed from snagging the East's top seed and making the conference finals, Miami is now clinging to the sixth seed and saddled by an anemic offense that ranks 26th in efficiency—ahead of rebuilders only.

Miami has mulled trades involving Kyle Lowry and Max Strus, per Barry Jackson and Anthony Chiang of the Miami Herald. The Heat should think even bigger, as an elite creator in the half-court could be what finally unlocks this offense.

They probably don't have enough to get Beal or LaVine now, but it's worth a phone call, since they both have pricey-as-heck futures and limited track records of success. They could also poke around for Rozier, who's had productive seasons in the past before Charlotte's offense cratered around him and torpedoed his efficiency.

A big swing probably can't happen before the summer—when Tyler Herro becomes much easier to trade—and if Miami can't make a major purchase now, it should be cautious of buying anything that costs a remotely valuable asset.

Milwaukee Bucks

17 of 30
DALLAS, TX - MAY 12: Jae Crowder #99 of the Phoenix Suns. looks on during the game against the Dallas Mavericks during Game 6 of the 2022 NBA Playoffs Western Conference Semifinals on May 12, 2022 at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2022 NBAE (Photo by Glenn James/NBAE via Getty Images)
DALLAS, TX - MAY 12: Jae Crowder #99 of the Phoenix Suns. looks on during the game against the Dallas Mavericks during Game 6 of the 2022 NBA Playoffs Western Conference Semifinals on May 12, 2022 at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2022 NBAE (Photo by Glenn James/NBAE via Getty Images)

Trade targets: Jae Crowder, Kenrich Williams, Jae'Sean Tate

The Bucks are the clubhouse leaders in the Crowder sweepstakes, per Action Network's Matt Moore. That checks out, since last year's playoffs taught them a valuable lesson about the importance of wing depth, as Khris Middleton's MCL sprain crumbled their championship hopes.

If they can't get Crowder, they should keep digging for two-way wings.

Williams and Tate both offer ample versatility on the defensive end. Both have question marks on offense—Williams has never shot threes at a high volume; Tate has never made them at a high clip—but they could fit well enough to log a dozen or so minutes per night come playoff time.

Minnesota Timberwolves

18 of 30
DETROIT, MICHIGAN - FEBRUARY 03: Alec Burks #5 of the Detroit Pistons handles the ball against the Charlotte Hornets at Little Caesars Arena on February 03, 2023 in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Nic Antaya/Getty Images)
DETROIT, MICHIGAN - FEBRUARY 03: Alec Burks #5 of the Detroit Pistons handles the ball against the Charlotte Hornets at Little Caesars Arena on February 03, 2023 in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Nic Antaya/Getty Images)

Trade targets: Alec Burks, Max Strus, Seth Curry

Assuming Minnesota is good to go with D'Angelo Russell—unrestricted free agency awaits him this summer, so we'll see—the Wolves need wing defenders with decent-or-better outside shots and instant-offense bench scorers.

Burks and Strus both check those boxes on the wings. Burks is pairing a career-best 43 three-point percentage with his highest scoring average in three seasons (13.2). Strus has struggled with efficiency this season, but last year he converted 181 threes on 41 percent shooting.

Minnesota's reserve group ranks 25th in offensive efficiency. A fireballer like Curry (career 16.1 points per 36 minutes on 47.5/43.8/86.2 shooting) could bump that number way up.

New Orleans Pelicans

19 of 30
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - NOVEMBER 30: O.G. Anunoby #3 of the Toronto Raptors drives with the ball against the New Orleans Pelicans during a game at the Smoothie King Center on November 30, 2022 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images)
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - NOVEMBER 30: O.G. Anunoby #3 of the Toronto Raptors drives with the ball against the New Orleans Pelicans during a game at the Smoothie King Center on November 30, 2022 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images)

Trade targets: O.G. Anunoby, Malik Beasley, Doug McDermott

More than anything, the Pelicans need a break from their repeat run-ins with the injury bug. They've had Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram together for all of 12 games. Until that number changes, it's hard to imagine New Orleans' performance will.

Get this lineup to full-strength, though, and it's still short on shooting. Since the Pels' best players lean toward the offensive end, it would be ideal to find that shooting from a reliable defender. Enter Anunoby. He is a defensive menace who continues growing his offensive game. New Orleans wants him, per Yahoo Sports' Jake Fischer, but so do at least seven other teams.

That need for shooting could also steer the Pelicans toward Beasley and McDermott.

New York Knicks

20 of 30
SACRAMENTO, CA - JANUARY 25: O.G. Anunoby #3 of the Toronto Raptors looks on during the game against the Sacramento Kings on January 25, 2023 at Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE (Photo by Rocky Widner/NBAE via Getty Images)
SACRAMENTO, CA - JANUARY 25: O.G. Anunoby #3 of the Toronto Raptors looks on during the game against the Sacramento Kings on January 25, 2023 at Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE (Photo by Rocky Widner/NBAE via Getty Images)

Trade targets: O.G. Anunoby, Gary Trent Jr., Eric Gordon

If not for the Kyrie Irving trade or the subsequent Kevin Durant trade watch, then 2023 might be the Year of Anunoby. Modern NBA teams can never have too many two-way wings, and the 25-year-old is quickly climbing those ranks.

New York has taken note. The Knicks have "shown a willingness to offer multiple first-round picks for Anunoby," per The Athletic's Shams Charania. They seemingly have enough picks and prospects to broker a blockbuster. It just falls on the front office to decide whether this is the blockbuster they should break open their piggy bank for.

If not Anunoby, then Trent and Gordon are more than serviceable fallback options. Both pair fiery three-point shots with capable, relatively versatile defense.

Oklahoma City Thunder

21 of 30
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - DECEMBER 27: James Wiseman #33 of the Golden State Warriors goes in for a layup over JT Thor #21 of the Charlotte Hornets during the third quarter at Chase Center on December 27, 2022 in San Francisco, California.  NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - DECEMBER 27: James Wiseman #33 of the Golden State Warriors goes in for a layup over JT Thor #21 of the Charlotte Hornets during the third quarter at Chase Center on December 27, 2022 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)

Trade targets: James Wiseman, Nikola Jović, Saddiq Bey

OKC can't be completely ruled out as buyers. The Thunder have performed like a 44-win team, and the right acquisition might nudge them near a 50-win performance level.

This still feels a touch too early to start pushing their trade chips toward the middle of the table. Patiently developing their in-house talent is probably the right play.

For as much progress as they've made, though, their long-term roster is far from set. That's why it might be worth taking a flier on any of these three prospects and seeing if they can stick in the Sooner State.

Orlando Magic

22 of 30
Fred VanVleet
Fred VanVleet

Trade targets: Fred VanVleet, Moses Moody, Chris Duarte

The Magic aren't a good team now, but they've dropped a lot of hints about potentially becoming good in the near future. Chief among them has been their 17-12 record since Dec. 7. That's two full months of above-.500 ball.

Maybe that's why they have "real interest" in VanVleet, per the Action Network's Matt Moore. If they plan to level up sooner than later, they could use his vision, leadership, experience and shooting. He'll need to get paid this summer, but they have the financial flexibility to do it. And while he's older than most of this core (29 later this month), that shouldn't worry Orlando if it thinks it can be compete as soon as next season.

If Orlando isn't ready to accelerate, it should focus on finding young shooters who can keep the floor spaced for Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner to attack. Moody and Duarte are at least average shooters who also contribute on the defensive end.

Philadelphia 76ers

23 of 30
Jae Crowder
Jae Crowder

Trade targets: Jae Crowder, Reggie Bullock, Andre Drummond

The Sixers don't need to make any dramatic deals at this year's trade deadline. They might not need any deals at all, although they'll likely look to duck below the luxury-tax line if they can't upgrade their roster.

If they add players, they should seek out well-rounded forwards who might hold up better in the playoffs than specialists like stopper Mattise Thybulle or shooter Georges Niang. Crowder and Bullock have the kind of two-way game that should make them easier to trust in the postseason. They're essentially the type of player whom Philly thought it was getting in Danuel House Jr.

And, as is the case seemingly every year, the Sixers could use a more reliable backup for Joel Embiid. Why not Drummond? He fit like a pair of skinny jeans in Philly last season before he got included in the James Harden-Ben Simmons trade.

Phoenix Suns

24 of 30
Kevin Durant and Chris Paul
Kevin Durant and Chris Paul

Trade targets: Kevin Durant, Fred VanVleet, Terry Rozier

It's hard to envision a Durant deal happening before this offseason at the earliest, but that shouldn't stop Phoenix from flooding Brooklyn's voicemail and email boxes. They chased the scoring savant last summer and are ready to pounce again if the Nets start taking offers, per Chris Haynes of TNT and B/R.

They're also clearly interested in finding a succession plan for life after Chris Paul—if not outright replacing the Point God now. They included Paul in their offer for Kyrie Irving, according to Haynes, and they have an interest in VanVleet, per Yahoo Sports' Jake Fischer. Rozier is on the radar, too, along with D'Angelo Russell and Kyle Lowry.

The two-way play of VanVleet and Rozier puts them above Russell and Lowry, particularly if Phoenix lost Paul in one of these trades.

Portland Trail Blazers

25 of 30
O.G. Anunoby and Damian Lillard
O.G. Anunoby and Damian Lillard

Trade targets: O.G. Anunoby, Matisse Thybulle, Zach Collins

Remember how all of the old Damian Lillard-CJ McCollum Trail Blazers teams desperately needed a two-way wing? Well, the Lillard-Jerami Grant iteration could user one, too.

Anunoby would be a perfect fit. He could instantly upgrade Portland's porous, 27th-ranked defense. Thybulle would be a far less perfect fit since his offensive limitations are reminiscent of the many one-way wings that have often surrounded Lillard. Still, this Portland club might have enough scoring to get away with playing a defensive specialist.

Finally, Portland could use more size and a backup big man behind Jusuf Nurkić. Setting aside the poetic nature of bringing things full circle with Collins, whose Portland tenure was marred by myriad injury issues, he's quietly having a strong season in San Antonio. He is an efficient scorer who can protect the paint.

Sacramento Kings

26 of 30
Grant Williams
Grant Williams

Trade targets: Grant Williams, Jae Crowder, Matisse Thybulle

Knock on wood, but Sacramento is on course to snap out of its record-setting, 16-year playoff drought in spectacular fashion. The Western Conference standings are bunched up, so things could change in a hurry, but the Kings are holding onto the No. 3 seed and are only two games back of No. 2.

It's remarkable this is happening, not because it's the Kings, but rather due to their 23rd-ranked defense. It's hard to consistently win this way, and that challenge grows exponentially more difficult once the postseason starts.

The Kings have to find a way to become better balanced. Acquiring a defensive-minded forward would be a big step in that direction. Williams intrigues as both a high-minute reserve now and potential replacement for Harrison Barnes this summer. Crowder and Thybulle could work in support roles, too.

Sacramento did just swing a deal for Kessler Edwards, per Shams Charania of Stadium and The Athletic, but the early intention is to play the second-year swingman at the G League level, per ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski.

San Antonio Spurs

27 of 30
Nikola Jović
Nikola Jović

Trade targets: Draft picks, Nikola Jović, Jaxson Hayes

The Spurs are in the every-vet-must-go stage of their rebuild. They shouldn't forget that.

Flipping Josh Richardson and Doug McDermott for the best draft picks available is a no-brainer. San Antonio may not agree with this, but so is sending out Jakob Poeltl for the top draft considerations on the board. Unless his market never materializes—which is hard to imagine when so many win-now shoppers need a center—it's better to trade him now than deal with his unrestricted free agency this summer.

The Spurs also have enough wiggle room to absorb salaries and should look to land sweeteners wherever they can. Jović needs polish, but he intrigues long-term as a 6'10" scorer who can create for himself and his teammates. Hayes has tremendous bounce for a 6'11" center, and he's been generally productive when given an opportunity.

Toronto Raptors

28 of 30
Nic Claxton
Nic Claxton

Trade targets: Nic Claxton, Jakob Poeltl, draft picks

While the Raptors might trade some impact players by the deadline, they don't seem to view this as a tear-down. They'd prefer adding young players over draft picks, per ESPN's Brian Windhorst, perhaps seeing this as a chance to retool as opposed to completely resetting.

The Nets reportedly have interest in Pascal Siakam, according to HoopsHype's Michael Scotto. They've reportedly discussed Claxton, Ben Simmons and several first-round picks in conversations with the Raptors.

Claxton is the crown jewel here. Toronto needs a paint protector, and Claxton has emerged as an elite defensive anchor. The Raptors' interest in him dates back to last season. The front office has clearly identified him as a priority target.

If Claxton can't happen, then bringing Poeltl back north of the border is another option. He is a dominant paint defender in his own right.

Utah Jazz

29 of 30
Russell Westbrook
Russell Westbrook

Trade targets: Russell Westbrook, John Collins, Payton Pritchard

The Jazz have been more competitive than expected this season, but not competitive enough to change the franchise's focus.

"We're trying to do things that will help us long term," Jazz CEO Danny Ainge told ESPN's Tim MacMahon. "We're not looking for a short-term fix so that we can get to the seventh seed instead of the 10th seed, unless it helps us long term."

There are two options to improve the long-term outlook. Door No. 1 (the one I'd choose, for what it's worth) involves shipping out players for the most draft picks possible. That's why Westbrook makes the list. A deal with the Lakers involving Mike Conley and Malik Beasley for Westbrook and 2027 and 2029 first-round picks has been discussed, per MacMahon, who noted Westbrook "would likely receive a buyout instead of joining the Jazz."

Door No. 2, meanwhile, involves targeting young players who can contribute now but also grow with this core. Collins, whom the Jazz have "strong interest" in acquiring, per The Athletic's Shams Charania, would fill out quite the frontcourt trio with Lauri Markkanen and Walker Kessler. Pritchard could offer shot-making and maybe more if Utah gave him a larger role than he's ever held in Boston.

Washington Wizards

30 of 30
O.G. Anunoby
O.G. Anunoby

Trade targets: O.G. Anunoby, Bones Hyland, draft picks

The Wizards are strange, and it's hard to pin down what they could (or even should) want at the deadline. They don't have much to offer—their asset collection is thin enough that a Bradley Beal trade still feels like the inevitable conclusion to this chapter—but if they cobbled everything together, they might be able to afford a near-star.

The Wizards make sense as an Anunoby suitor. He is sort of the turbo-charged version of the player they hope Deni Avdija eventually becomes. They should also shoot their shot at Hyland. He isn't the cleanest on-paper fit with Beal, particularly on defense, but they can't ignore a chance to add upside for less than full price.

At the same time, they should keep their ears open in case anyone wants to severely overpay for Kyle Kuzma. Washington hopes to re-sign him this summer, per The Athletic's David Aldridge and Josh Robbins, but there's a risk Kuzma will walk for nothing. He's a good player but not a great one, so the Wizards shouldn't make him completely off-limits. He might fetch some pretty valuable draft considerations.


Statistics courtesy of Basketball Reference and NBA.com and accurate through Monday. Salary information via Spotrac.

Zach Buckley covers the NBA for Bleacher Report. Follow him on Twitter, @ZachBuckleyNBA.

Bridges Misses Game-Winning Shot 🫣

TOP NEWS

Brooklyn Nets v Milwaukee Bucks
Minnesota Timberwolves v Denver Nuggets - Game One
Atlanta Hawks v New York Knicks - Game Two
Houston Rockets v Los Angeles Lakers

TRENDING ON B/R