The NBA trade deadline is fast approaching, but a pair of high-profile injuries may have already reshaped the landscape. Two stars who were expected to generate significant buzz-Ja Morant and Giannis Antetokounmpo-are now sidelined, casting a shadow over what could’ve been a more dramatic lead-up to the deadline.
Let’s start in Memphis, where Ja Morant’s elbow sprain is expected to keep him out for at least three weeks. That’s a tough blow for a Grizzlies team that’s struggled to find consistency, and it complicates any potential trade discussions involving the All-Star guard.
Morant’s market value was already murky. He’s appeared in just 20 games this season and has only suited up for 79 across the last three years.
That kind of availability-or lack thereof-is always going to raise red flags for front offices looking to make a major move.
Then there’s the contract. Morant is on the books for $42.2 million next season, with that number jumping to $44.9 million in 2027-28.
That’s a hefty price tag for a player whose shooting has taken a dip-he’s hitting just 41% from the field and a rough 23.5% from beyond the arc. That combination of injury concerns, contract size, and shooting inefficiency is enough to make even the most aggressive GMs think twice.
Meanwhile, in Milwaukee, the situation with Giannis Antetokounmpo is just as concerning, if not more so. The two-time MVP left Friday’s game with a right calf injury that’s expected to sideline him for four to six weeks.
That’s a massive chunk of time for a Bucks team already sitting at 18-26. Without their superstar, Milwaukee could find itself slipping further down the standings, potentially shifting their focus from a late-season push to lottery positioning.
And while no one in Milwaukee is openly waving the white flag, a prolonged absence for Giannis could force the front office to start thinking long-term-especially with a potentially loaded draft class on the horizon. It also raises questions about Giannis’ future and whether he’ll be ready to commit to an offseason extension. That’s a conversation for another day, but it looms large over the franchise.
Around the League: Trade Chatter Heating Up
In New York, the Knicks are expected to explore moving Guerschon Yabusele ahead of the deadline. One possible landing spot?
San Antonio. Yabusele has experience playing alongside Victor Wembanyama on the French national team, and that familiarity could make him an intriguing fit for the Spurs’ young core.
The Knicks are also reportedly interested in Pelicans guard Jose Alvarado, a gritty defender with a knack for making winning plays. As for bigger names, don’t expect Karl-Anthony Towns to be on the move-at least not before this deadline.
Speaking of New Orleans, the Pelicans are drawing plenty of interest. Teams around the league continue to inquire about Trey Murphy III, Herbert Jones, and Saddiq Bey.
While nothing is imminent, the sense is that New Orleans could be one of the more active teams as the deadline approaches. They’ve got depth, talent, and flexibility-three key ingredients for making something happen.
Out west, Clippers head coach Tyronn Lue doesn’t expect his team to be involved in any major deals. And he’s not shy about putting things in perspective.
“If a team’s trying to trade for you, then somebody wants you,” Lue said. “You could be in other guys’ shoes where nobody wants you, nobody wants to trade for you, and then you’re out of the league.
… In our situation, I don’t see much movement. So I think we’ll be good.”
That’s the kind of quiet confidence you want from a veteran coach. The Clippers have found some rhythm, and unless something surprising comes across the table, they’re likely to ride with the group they’ve got.
So while the Morant and Giannis injuries may have taken some of the sizzle out of the deadline, there’s still plenty of movement to watch. With the clock ticking, expect the rumor mill to keep churning-and don’t be surprised if a few unexpected names end up on the move before it’s all said and done.