With the NBA trade landscape starting to take shape ahead of the deadline, a few names are quietly-yet consistently-making the rounds in front offices across the league. From Charlotte’s evolving roster dynamics to the ongoing intrigue around Jonathan Kuminga and Trey Murphy III, there’s no shortage of movement being monitored behind the scenes. Let’s break down the latest buzz and what it could mean as teams start positioning themselves for the stretch run.
Charlotte’s Core Is (Finally) Healthy-But Eyes Are on Brandon Miller
For the first time in what feels like ages, the Hornets have their key pieces healthy and available. LaMelo Ball, Brandon Miller, Kon Knueppel, and Miles Bridges are all on the floor, and Charlotte is hoping this stretch offers a clearer picture of what this group might actually be capable of when firing on all cylinders.
But even with the optimism, there’s been some quiet chatter around the league regarding Miller’s availability. Once considered completely off-limits in trade talks, the former No. 2 overall pick is no longer viewed with quite the same level of untouchability. Rival executives are starting to wonder: if the Hornets’ season doesn’t trend upward, could Charlotte be open to moving him in the right deal?
That doesn’t mean anything is imminent-but it’s a storyline worth watching as the trade deadline creeps closer.
Jonathan Kuminga Still Drawing Interest-Especially from Sacramento
Jonathan Kuminga’s name has been floating around trade circles for a while now, and it’s not going away anytime soon. The 21-year-old forward becomes trade-eligible on January 15, and teams are keeping tabs.
One team that hasn’t cooled? The Sacramento Kings.
Their interest in Kuminga has remained steady, even as other suitors have backed off. Phoenix, once linked to the Warriors forward, has reportedly lost interest.
Brooklyn, meanwhile, was never seriously in the mix. The Pelicans have been connected in the past, but it’s unclear if they’re still monitoring the situation.
Kuminga’s athleticism, defensive potential, and flashes of offensive growth continue to intrigue teams looking for a young, high-upside piece. Whether Golden State is ready to move him is another question entirely-but his name will stay in circulation as we approach mid-January.
Trey Murphy III: A Coveted Wing, But Hard to Pry Loose
Another name rising on trade boards around the league is Pelicans wing Trey Murphy III. Golden State and Portland are both reportedly high on the 6’9” sharpshooter, who brings a blend of size, shooting, and defensive versatility that’s tailor-made for today’s NBA.
Still, there’s some skepticism about whether New Orleans would actually entertain offers for him. League insiders believe it would take a massive return-something in the ballpark of what Memphis got for Desmond Bane-to even get the Pelicans to the table.
As for the Warriors, while they like Murphy, the sense is they’d only part with serious assets if a true superstar became available. Murphy’s a valuable piece, but Golden State seems more focused on big-game hunting at this stage.
Jarace Walker Mentioned in Pacers-Kings Talks
One more name to keep an eye on: Jarace Walker. The Pacers forward reportedly came up in trade discussions with the Kings, though those talks were described as exploratory rather than anything close to serious negotiations.
It’s unclear which side brought up Walker’s name, but it’s worth noting that Indiana has been active in discussions involving centers and continues to explore the market as the deadline approaches.
Walker, a promising young forward with defensive upside and a developing offensive game, could be a valuable trade chip if Indiana sees an opportunity to address its frontcourt needs.
With the trade deadline looming, the league’s rumor mill is starting to heat up. Whether it’s Charlotte evaluating its young core, Sacramento eyeing a high-upside forward, or contenders like Golden State and Portland looking to add key pieces, the next few weeks could set the stage for some big moves-or at the very least, some intriguing conversations.