NBA Rumors: Karl-Anthony Towns, Donovan Mitchell, More Off Limits at Trade Deadline

Some of the top rumored NBA trade candidates this winter appear to be off-limits as the Feb. 8 deadline approaches.

Cleveland Cavaliers star Donovan Mitchell and Minnesota Timberwolves veteran Karl-Anthony Towns are among the players who aren't available ahead of the deadline, according to Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports.

Cavaliers big man Jarrett Allen, Brooklyn Nets guard Mikal Bridges and Utah Jazz forward Lauri Markkanen also appear to be off the market, according to Fischer.

Towns has been included in trade rumors dating back to before the 2023-24 season began, but those rumors intensified in November after Michael Scotto of HoopsHype reported that "the consensus among the NBA executives who spoke to HoopsHype is that if Minnesota loses in the first round of the playoffs for the third straight year, Towns could be the most likely member of the core traded."

The New York Knicks have also been heavily linked to a trade for Towns this season. Shams Charania of The Athletic and Stadium reported last month that the Knicks are "always going to have interest in" acquiring the veteran if he were to be made available.

However, the Timberwolves are currently first in the Western Conference with a 34-14 record, and considering Towns has played a big part in the team's success, it's no surprise Minnesota won't be moving him at the deadline.

Towns is averaging 22.7 points, 8.7 rebounds and 3.1 assists in 47 games while shooting 52.2 percent from the floor and 44.3 percent from deep. Considering he's performing well alongside Anthony Edwards and Rudy Gobert, there's no reason to risk ruining the connection they've developed.

Mitchell has also been heavily featured in trade rumors since before the season began as he can become a free agent after the 2024-25 season by declining his $37 million player option for 2025-26.

However, the Cavaliers have maintained that Mitchell isn't available for trade, and Sam Vecenie of The Athletic reported last month that Cleveland is "planning to ride out this season" with him on the roster.

Mitchell has played well this season and is averaging 28.1 points, 5.4 rebounds and 6.4 assists in 37 games, and the Cavs sit fourth in the Eastern Conference with a 30-16 record in part thanks to his efforts.

That said, rumors will only persist as long as Mitchell does not have an extension to remain in Cleveland, and it's always possible he'll be available next season.