NBA Trade Deadline 2026: Top 10 Teams With the Biggest Moves to Watch

With the NBA trade deadline fast approaching (Feb. 5), front offices are shifting from speculation to action. Whether it’s a contender looking for the final playoff piece or a rebuilding squad cashing in assets, the next few weeks could reshape the title picture — and the betting markets.

From blockbuster names like Anthony Davis and Jonathan Kuminga to sneaky cap-saving moves, here are the Top 10 teams that could define the 2026 NBA trade deadline, BetNow style.

1. Dallas Mavericks

Player to Watch: Anthony Davis

Everything starts in Dallas. The Mavericks shocked the league when they acquired Davis for Luka Dončić, and now they may shock it again. Despite a hand injury that could keep him sidelined through the deadline, Dallas has quietly reengaged trade talks.

If the Mavs move Davis, it signals a full reset. If they don’t, it’s an all-in playoff gamble. Either way, Dallas is the deadline’s biggest wild card — and a major swing factor for futures odds.

2. Golden State Warriors

Player to Watch: Jonathan Kuminga

This saga is nearing its breaking point. Kuminga has officially requested a trade, hasn’t played since mid-December, and no longer fits cleanly alongside Golden State’s veteran core.

The Warriors aren’t rebuilding — they’re recalibrating. Kuminga is likely to be used as a salary-matching chess piece in a win-now move. Expect Golden State to be aggressive, especially if Steph Curry’s window is still the priority.

3. Brooklyn Nets

Player to Watch: Michael Porter Jr.

Porter Jr. has gone from complementary scorer in Denver to full-blown offensive engine in Brooklyn, averaging a career-high 25+ points per game.

That production makes him one of the most valuable trade chips on the market. Playoff teams want shooting and size — Porter offers both. Whether the Nets cash in now or build around him will define their next era.

4. Atlanta Hawks

Player to Watch: Kristaps Porzingis

After moving Trae Young, Atlanta’s pivot is official. Porzingis’ $30.7M expiring contract gives the Hawks rare flexibility, whether it’s absorbing future salary or setting up a bigger offseason play.

He’s been productive when healthy, and contenders desperate for frontcourt size are watching closely. Atlanta may not rush — but they’re positioned to strike.

5. Chicago Bulls

Player to Watch: Nikola Vučević

No team screams “deadline urgency” louder than Chicago. The Bulls have eight players on expiring deals, but Vučević is the centerpiece.

At 35, he’s still producing reliably, and his contract is reasonable for teams needing veteran stability in the middle. Expect Chicago to be one of the most active sellers on the board.

6. Boston Celtics

Player to Watch: Chris Boucher

Boston is winning — but also bleeding money. Deep into the luxury tax, the Celtics could use the deadline to clean the books.

Boucher hasn’t cracked the rotation, and moving his deal could save Boston millions while opening room for flexibility later. Don’t expect fireworks — expect precision.

7. Denver Nuggets

Player to Watch: Zeke Nnaji

Denver doesn’t need a star — they need efficiency. Nnaji has flashed real upside during Nikola Jokić’s absence, which puts the Nuggets at a crossroads.

If he sustains that level, Denver may stand pat. If not, he becomes their most realistic trade asset. Either way, Denver’s decision will be calculated, not reactive.

8. Cleveland Cavaliers

Player to Watch: Lonzo Ball

This experiment hasn’t worked — at least not yet. Ball’s shooting has cratered, his minutes are shrinking, and Cleveland is facing massive luxury tax penalties.

A move could save the Cavs over $60 million in tax exposure. That alone puts them firmly on the deadline radar, even if the return is modest.

9. Houston Rockets

Player to Watch: Dorian Finney-Smith

Houston doesn’t need to move anyone — but Finney-Smith may be their cleanest option if a contender comes calling.

He hasn’t found his rhythm post-surgery, which likely lowers his value. That suggests Houston either waits… or quietly facilitates a deal that helps both sides without headline drama.

10. Charlotte Hornets

Player to Watch: Collin Sexton

Sexton has been one of the league’s most efficient bench guards, and contenders always need scoring punch off the bench.

On an expiring deal and with Charlotte far from contention, Sexton is a logical rental candidate. If moved, don’t be surprised if his new team sees an immediate odds bump.

Final BetNow Take

This deadline isn’t just about stars — it’s about timing, contracts, and leverage. Dallas and Golden State hold the nuclear buttons, while teams like Brooklyn and Chicago can reshape the market with one call.

For bettors, keep an eye on:

• Sudden futures line movement

• Teams clearing salary for late-season surges

• Depth moves that don’t make headlines — but win playoff series
  

The clock is ticking. And in February, the NBA always reminds us: one trade can change everything. 🏀🔥