The 2026 NBA trade deadline didn’t just bring fireworks-it practically lit the league on fire. A staggering 27 of 30 teams got in on the action, making this one of the most active deadlines in recent memory.
Big names like James Harden, Jaren Jackson Jr., and Anthony Davis found new homes. But while the headlines were dominated by who did move, there’s an equally compelling story in who didn’t.
Several stars-some of the biggest in the game-stayed put, at least for now. Let’s break down five high-profile names who weren’t traded but could be back on the block once the offseason rolls around.
Giannis Antetokounmpo - Still a Buck… for Now
Giannis was the name that loomed largest over this year’s trade deadline. The two-time MVP has danced around trade rumors for years, and once again, Milwaukee held firm. But it’s hard to shake the feeling that this is a temporary pause rather than a long-term commitment.
The Bucks are in a bind. They’ve already spent most of their draft capital, and their roster-while still talented-isn’t built like a true contender.
Their only move at the deadline? Bringing in Nigel Hayes-Davis and Ousmane Dieng.
Solid depth pieces, sure, but not the kind of needle-movers that change a title chase.
Giannis, meanwhile, continues to be a singular force in the NBA. At 6-foot-11 with elite athleticism, he’s still one of the most dominant two-way players in the league. He bulldozes defenders in the paint, anchors a defense like a Defensive Player of the Year candidate, and sets the tone for everything Milwaukee does.
But every time he hints at wanting out, he walks it back. Whether that’s out of genuine loyalty or a desire to avoid being painted as the villain, only he knows.
What’s clear is this: if Milwaukee puts him back on the market this summer, the entire league will freeze until his future is sorted. He’s that important.
Kawhi Leonard - Still in LA, But for How Long?
The Clippers made some major moves at the deadline, signaling a shift in direction. James Harden was flipped for Darius Garland, and Ivica Zubac was traded for a package of picks. It’s a new era in LA-but Kawhi Leonard is still there, for now.
Leonard remains one of the most enigmatic stars in the league. When healthy, he’s elite-an all-time defender with the ability to carry an offense.
But that “when healthy” caveat has loomed large for years. Add in the ongoing investigation involving Aspiration and possible salary cap violations, and his trade situation becomes even murkier.
There’s also the matter of geography. Leonard has long been reluctant to play anywhere outside of Los Angeles. That limits his market, especially for teams wary of his injury history and the league’s potential rulings on the investigation.
Still, if the NBA clears the way and a team is willing to roll the dice, Leonard could be the kind of playoff-tested veteran who puts a contender over the top. He fits in any system, brings championship pedigree, and when locked in, can be the best player on the floor.
Ja Morant - Memphis’ Last Domino?
The Grizzlies have already started reshaping their roster. Jaren Jackson Jr. was sent to Utah.
Desmond Bane was moved in the offseason. And now, all eyes are on Ja Morant.
Once seen as a future face of the league, Morant’s stock has taken a hit. Multiple suspensions, declining efficiency, and friction with the franchise have all raised red flags. Still, Memphis didn’t move him-at least not yet.
The Grizzlies are now armed with 11 to 13 future first-round picks, depending on protections. That’s a serious war chest. But with Morant still in town, the question is whether they’re building around him or preparing to move on entirely.
Despite the baggage, Morant remains one of the league’s most electric athletes. He can finish at the rim in ways few guards ever have-through, around, or over defenders. If the off-court issues are behind him, there’s a real buy-low opportunity here for a team willing to take the risk.
Michael Porter Jr. - Brooklyn’s Breakout Star
Michael Porter Jr. has found new life in Brooklyn. No longer just a spot-up shooter like he was in Denver, Porter has thrived with a green light and a bigger role. He’s averaging 25 a night and looking every bit the offensive centerpiece.
But here’s the twist: Brooklyn may not be ready to build around him.
The Nets are deep in a rebuild, and they’ve made no secret of their obsession with draft capital. They already have five rookie first-rounders on the roster and 12 more first-round picks coming their way. Porter could be the bridge between their current rebuild and a future contender-or he could be the next big name they flip for even more assets.
At 6-foot-10 with elite shooting touch, Porter fits virtually any system. He’s just 27, in his prime, and finally showing what he can do with volume. If Brooklyn decides to cash in, there will be no shortage of suitors.
Jarrett Allen - The Next Cap Casualty in Cleveland?
Cleveland went all-in at the deadline. In came James Harden, out went Darius Garland.
The Cavs are betting that Harden gives them a better shot at a deep playoff run right now. But there’s a cost to that kind of gamble.
Cleveland is the only team currently in the second apron, and the penalties for staying there are steep. They’ve already moved De’Andre Hunter and Lonzo Ball to help with the books, but more changes could be coming-especially if they fall short of a title.
Jarrett Allen’s name has been floating in trade rumors, and with a hefty contract extension kicking in next season, he could be the next piece to go. The good news for Cleveland?
Evan Mobley looks more ready than ever to be a full-time center. If the Cavs need to make a tough decision, they may already have a solution in-house.
The Bigger Picture
The 2026 trade deadline may be over, but the real drama could just be getting started. Giannis, Kawhi, Ja, Porter, Allen-these are names that could define the offseason. Whether it’s title contenders looking to make the final push or rebuilding teams stockpiling picks, the market is still loaded with possibilities.
One thing’s for sure: the NBA never sleeps. And neither do the trade talks.