NBA Trade Deadline Buzz: Cavaliers Holding Steady, Lakers Seeking Flexibility, Rockets Eyeing Frontcourt Help
As the NBA trade deadline inches closer, front offices across the league are working the phones-but not everyone is gearing up for a blockbuster. In Cleveland, the Cavaliers are still taking calls, but don’t expect a major shake-up just yet.
Cavs Staying the Course-for Now
Rival teams have been circling, checking in on players like De’Andre Hunter and Dean Wade. Some have even floated the idea of prying loose one of the Cavs’ core four: Donovan Mitchell, Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, or Jarrett Allen.
But the message out of Cleveland has been consistent-the front office still believes in this group when fully healthy. The idea of breaking up the core?
That’s not on the table right now.
It’s a sign that the Cavaliers are playing the long game. They’re betting on continuity and health, hoping the roster they built can still be a force in the Eastern Conference. That means any real fireworks are more likely to come in the offseason-if they come at all.
That said, there’s still room for smaller moves before the deadline. Around the league, De’Andre Hunter is being viewed as a player Cleveland might be willing to move now. His name keeps popping up in conversations, and while nothing is imminent, it’s one to keep an eye on.
Another potential pivot involves Lonzo Ball. His on-court impact hasn’t quite met expectations, but his contract-particularly the $10 million team option for 2026-27-could be attractive to teams looking to create future cap flexibility. That kind of financial maneuverability always has value at the deadline.
The Cavs have also expressed interest in Mavericks forward Naji Marshall. But there’s a snag: Dallas reportedly wants at least a first-round pick in return.
Cleveland has just one movable first, and it’s way down the line in 2031 or 2032. That’s a steep price for a team that’s trying to keep its future options open.
Lakers Looking to Multiply Their Options
Out in Los Angeles, the Lakers are exploring a different kind of move. According to reports, they’ve looked into flipping their lone tradable first-round pick for multiple lower-value firsts-a strategy Phoenix used last season in a deal with Utah.
The thinking here is simple: more picks mean more flexibility. More options on the table.
More ways to improve a roster that’s still trying to find consistency.
Lakers GM Rob Pelinka has been active, reaching out to teams and weighing possibilities. With a couple of weeks left before the deadline, L.A. is clearly in exploration mode. Whether that leads to a splash or a series of smaller tweaks remains to be seen, but the goal is clear-create more pathways to get better, both now and in the future.
Houston in the Market for Frontcourt Depth
Meanwhile, the Rockets are keeping their eyes on the frontcourt. With Steven Adams sidelined, Houston is open to adding size and depth up front. It’s a logical move for a team that’s been competitive but could use more interior presence as they push toward the postseason.
The Rockets have the assets to be buyers if the right opportunity presents itself, and the need is clear. Whether it’s a veteran big or a younger piece with upside, Houston’s front office is scanning the market for help in the paint.
As the trade deadline approaches, teams are weighing risk, reward, and long-term vision. The Cavaliers are holding firm for now, the Lakers are working the margins for maximum flexibility, and the Rockets are ready to reinforce the frontcourt. The deals may not be blockbuster-sized-at least not yet-but the groundwork being laid now could shape the stretch run and beyond.