The dust is beginning to settle after the initial flurry of NBA free agency moves and blockbuster trades. However, the market remains active, presenting a fascinating mix of players who could still find themselves in new uniforms before the next season tips off. This current phase of the offseason market largely features two distinct groups: reliable veterans nearing the end of their careers but still offering valuable contributions, and younger players with significant potential yet unfulfilled promises. Adding intrigue are a few colossal names whose situations, while perhaps unlikely to result in a move, continue to fuel speculation.
Let`s examine some of the key figures dominating the trade and free agency discussions, ranging from seasoned floor generals to athletic wings and even the very titans of the league.
Giannis Antetokounmpo: The Uneasy Reign in Milwaukee?
Giannis Antetokounmpo, the cornerstone of the Milwaukee Bucks, reportedly harbors some dissatisfaction regarding the team`s ability to contend for championships. This sentiment, often described colloquially as a `stomach ache`, hasn`t been entirely hidden. Milwaukee has attempted remedies, notably acquiring Myles Turner and re-signing Bobby Portis, seemingly in an effort to alleviate Giannis`s concerns and deter any thoughts of relocating. The question looms large: will these moves be sufficient to keep the superstar content in Wisconsin? It`s far from a certainty. Acquiring a player of Giannis`s caliber requires a king`s ransom in terms of assets, leaving franchises to weigh whether they possess the courage and the necessary pieces to genuinely entice the Bucks.
Jonathan Kuminga: Potential vs. Production in Golden State
Jonathan Kuminga`s narrative thus far could be summarized as “I want to, but I can`t” – a refrain that some might find repetitive. Coach Steve Kerr has seemingly struggled to fully integrate Kuminga into the Golden State Warriors` system, particularly questioning his defensive reads and overall feel for the game on both ends. Yet, there`s no denying his elite athleticism and scoring ability. It feels increasingly likely that another team, perhaps one less beholden to the Warriors` specific positional needs and defensive schemes, might be willing to pay a premium for his untapped potential. A sign-and-trade deal, where he re-signs with Golden State only to be immediately traded, appears a plausible path for him to depart California.
Josh Giddey: Chicago`s Triple-Double Threat
The point guard from Melbourne isn`t a natural shooter by trade, but Josh Giddey has shown improvement in his three-point efficiency. More importantly, he remains a walking triple-double threat, capable of impacting the game with points, rebounds, and assists. The Chicago Bulls are reportedly looking to secure him long-term but are cautious about overspending. This financial tightrope act could create an opportunity for another franchise to potentially sneak in and snatch the versatile playmaker away from the Windy City`s plans.
Chris Paul: The Enduring Maestro
At 40 years old, Chris Paul managed to play all 82 regular season games last season for San Antonio – a remarkable feat given his age and injury history. While no longer in his prime, his passing remains elite, and he possesses an almost automatic ability to bring order to an offense, much like a parent tidying up a toddler`s room. With limited minutes, he could be a valuable asset for numerous teams, particularly contenders needing backcourt stability and leadership. A return to the Los Angeles Clippers, where he previously enjoyed significant success, could make a certain kind of nostalgic sense.
Russell Westbrook: Still Bringing the Energy
Russell Westbrook showed last season in Denver, playing alongside Nikola Jokic, that he is far from finished. He performed effectively as the engine for the second unit, demonstrating that he can still thrive when not parked statically in a corner three-point role but instead leading the offense from the bench. His energy, intensity, and ability to push the pace remain valuable. Moreover, his physical and professional dedication serves as an admirable example for younger players – if only everyone worked as hard as he does…
Al Horford: The Veteran Who Didn`t Retire?
It seemed like Al Horford might be leaning towards retirement. Or perhaps not. The official announcement hasn`t come, and instead, reports of teams trying to poach him from the Boston Celtics have surfaced. Both the Warriors and Lakers have reportedly shown interest. A cerebral big like Horford has historically fit well within the Warriors` system. And given that Boston appears to be taking a sabbatical year from Larry O`Brien Trophy aspirations, a move for Horford could possess a certain logical appeal for all parties involved.
Damian Lillard: An Injured Bargain?
In a somewhat surprising move, the Milwaukee Bucks waived Damian Lillard following the Achilles tendon rupture he sustained during the 2025 playoffs. While he`s not expected back on the court until potentially the spring of 2026, any team willing to take on his recovery could acquire him at a significant discount compared to his market value when healthy. After all, he was an All-Star in the two seasons leading up to his injury, representing a potential high-reward, low-cost gamble for a patient franchise.
LeBron James: The Perpetual Laker Question Mark
Will he stay or will he go? This question has become as fashionable in Los Angeles as the “He loves me, he loves me not” game of a previous generation. On paper, LeBron James exercised his player option and is set to play for the Lakers for the next twelve months. However, he`s now 40 years old, this could potentially be his final go-around, and the Lakers` offseason moves haven`t exactly screaming “championship favorite.” Hence, rumors about a potential trade for “the King” persist. A move remains highly improbable; James has significant business interests centered in the City of Angels, and despite any rhetorical posturing with the franchise, changing addresses seems low on his personal agenda. Furthermore, his market isn`t exactly red hot – at his age, there`s no long-term prospect, his salary is astronomical, and the trade compensation required would be immense. Yet, the name is so significant that he simply cannot be omitted from any market discussion. Someone, somewhere, could theoretically lose their mind and make a crazy offer. Stranger things have happened for far less impactful players, after all.
While the initial fireworks of free agency may be over, the NBA trade market still holds the potential for impactful moves involving players across the career spectrum. Teams looking to contend, rebuild, or find value will continue to eye these available talents, ensuring the offseason remains a topic of conversation.
Elton Marrow