NBA trade rumors are already swirling around several big names, and the league is still about three months from the trade deadline of 2027. From Kyrie Irving in Dallas to Anthony Davis in Washington, front offices are weighing bold moves that could reshape contenders and rebuilders alike. Here are the players most likely to be dealt and why.
Why NBA Trade Rumors Are Heating Up Early
Several teams are sitting on expiring contracts, thin draft-pick stockpiles, or players who no longer match their timelines. That mix is fueling the latest NBA trade rumors, and it turns a handful of veterans into obvious trade candidates. Bleacher Report’s Grant Hughes recently spotlighted seven names to watch. To see which contenders might be shoppers, check our NBA power rankings for the 2026-27 preseason.
Michael Porter Jr. and Kyrie Irving Lead the Market
Brooklyn has to swap its 2027 first-round pick with Houston, so finishing among the league’s three worst records actually helps the Nets. Michael Porter Jr. is on an expiring $40.8 million salary and is on pace to average more than 20 points per game for the second straight year. That makes him a natural target for contenders that need elite shooting at the forward.
Kyrie Irving has been brilliant in Dallas and has helped Cooper Flagg take a leap. But Irving is 34, has an ACL injury in his past, and is 14 years older than Flagg, so his trade value may never be higher. With little draft capital, the Mavericks could use Irving to build a more sustainable roster around their young star. Situations like this drive many NBA trade rumors every winter.
Porzingis, Powell, and Davis Could Change Teams
Kristaps Porzingis is effectively a $20 million expiring contract, with only $3 million guaranteed next season. ESPN’s Anthony Slater reported that team sources are extremely pessimistic he will ever play for Golden State again. The Warriors are motivated to turn him into a pick or a player who can suit up.
Norman Powell, 33, is on track to average more than 20 points per game for the third consecutive season. His second contract year is a team option, which makes him attractive to playoff teams seeking a scoring sixth man. If one player jumps from a lottery team to a contender, Powell is the safest bet.
Anthony Davis is the most intriguing case. Washington gave him no extension, so he will either reach free agency in 2027 or pick up a $63 million player option. The Wizards don’t want to lose him for nothing, and a package built around Jimmy Butler’s expiring money and a pick could make sense for Golden State. Any team in the market will keep NBA trade rumors alive around Davis until a decision is made.
Herro and the Clippers’ Veterans Round Out the List
Tyler Herro of the Milwaukee Bucks is on an expiring $33 million deal and is scoring efficiently. Milwaukee is rebuilding in the post-Giannis era and also has Kyle Kuzma, Caris LeVert, and Ryan Rollins as possible chips. The Bucks are the most active seller to watch.
Meanwhile, the LA Clippers need to recoup draft assets after cap-related penalties. Derrick Jones Jr., on an expiring $10.5 million salary, could be combined with Max Strus, Brook Lopez, or Kris Dunn to bring back real value.
History shows deadline blockbusters can come out of nowhere, as our look at shocking NBA trades proves. To follow every move live, see how to watch NBA games in 2026-27.
What NBA Trade Rumors Mean for the Season Ahead
The next few months will separate real deals from noise. Expect NBA trade rumors to intensify as injuries, standings, and contract decisions force teams to pick a direction. Sellers will want picks, buyers will want shooting and depth, and the winners will be those who move early.
FAQs
When is the NBA trade deadline?
It arrives in February, roughly three months from now.
Who is the most likely player to be traded?
Tyler Herro, Norman Powell, and Kristaps Porzingis are among the strongest candidates, thanks to expiring or flexible contracts.
Why do the Warriors want to move Porzingis?
His availability has been inconsistent, and only part of his next-year salary is guaranteed, making him an ideal trade chip.
How reliable are NBA trade rumors?
They vary. Reports from trusted insiders carry weight, but many rumors never become deals, so treat early chatter with caution.