The NBA trade season is heating up, and with the deadline fast approaching, teams with playoff aspirations are starting to zero in on potential difference-makers. One name that’s drawing increased attention is Charlotte Hornets forward Miles Bridges. The 25-year-old wing is quietly putting together a strong season, and contending teams are taking notice.
According to league reports, the Milwaukee Bucks, Los Angeles Clippers, Sacramento Kings, and Los Angeles Lakers have all expressed exploratory trade interest in Bridges. Charlotte, for its part, appears open to moving him - if the right deal comes along.
And it’s easy to see why Bridges is gaining traction on the market. Through this season, he’s averaging 19.1 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game - solid production for a player who can slide between both forward spots and bring size and scoring to the perimeter.
He’s in the second year of a three-year, $75 million contract, with a $25 million salary for the 2025-26 season. That number makes him a manageable piece for teams trying to match salaries without gutting their core.
For teams like the Lakers, who are navigating one of the roughest stretches of their season, Bridges represents a potential solution to a glaring need. Injuries and inconsistent play have exposed the Lakers’ lack of depth on the wing. The front office has been active in exploring upgrades, and Bridges checks a lot of boxes: he can create his own shot, defend multiple positions, and doesn’t need the ball in his hands to be effective alongside stars like LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
The Bucks, Clippers, and Kings are also in the mix, each with their own motivations. Milwaukee is always on the lookout for athletic wings who can run with Giannis and knock down open looks.
The Clippers, with their veteran-heavy roster, could use a younger, high-motor player to inject some versatility. And the Kings, pushing to solidify their spot in the West, are clearly in win-now mode and seeking extra firepower on the perimeter.
From Charlotte’s perspective, this is a chance to capitalize on Bridges’ value while continuing to shape their roster for the future. They’ve shown a willingness to listen, and that alone is enough to keep the phones ringing.
As the February 5 trade deadline draws closer, expect Bridges’ name to stay in the spotlight. He’s not a superstar, but he’s the kind of player who can swing a playoff series - or at the very least, elevate a contender’s second unit. With his production, contract, and fit across multiple systems, he’s one of the more intriguing names on the board.