The NBA trade deadline is fast approaching, and front offices across the league are working the phones. A handful of names are starting to surface as potential movers, and some of them-like Jeremy Sochan and Trey Murphy III-could have a real impact on playoff races or long-term rebuilds. Let’s dig into the latest buzz from around the league and what it could mean as the trade market heats up.
Spurs Give Sochan the Green Light to Explore Trade
Jeremy Sochan, the Spurs’ ninth overall pick from the 2022 draft, has been granted permission to explore trade options. That’s a notable development for a player who started consistently during his first two seasons in San Antonio.
But this year, his role has shrunk considerably-just 27 games played, averaging 13.1 minutes and 4.2 points per night. The shooting struggles have persisted, with career marks of 46.9% from the field and just 28.7% from deep.
Sochan’s skill set still holds intrigue-he’s a versatile defender with size and energy-but in a Spurs rotation that’s evolving around Victor Wembanyama, his fit has become less certain. With a $7.1 million expiring contract and restricted free agency looming this summer (assuming he receives a qualifying offer), Sochan could be a low-risk pickup for a team looking to bolster its frontcourt depth. The Knicks have been mentioned as a possible landing spot, and it would make sense-they’ve been sniffing around for inexpensive frontcourt help.
Lakers’ Dalton Knecht Drawing Trade Interest
Dalton Knecht, the Lakers’ first-round pick from 2024, is another young player who could be on the move. He’s appeared in 36 games this season but is averaging just 12.5 minutes per night and hasn’t seen meaningful action in the past two weeks. Knecht was briefly traded to Charlotte at last year’s deadline in a deal involving Mark Williams, but that trade was later rescinded.
Now, with the Lakers looking to fine-tune their roster for a playoff push, Knecht could be part of a package to bring in more immediate help. He’s shown flashes of scoring potential, but in a crowded wing rotation, the opportunity just hasn’t been there.
Pelicans Listening, But the Price is High
If you’re calling the Pelicans about Trey Murphy III or Herbert Jones, you better come correct. New Orleans is reportedly getting “Desmond Bane-type offers” for either player-think four future first-round picks and a swap, which is what Memphis got from Orlando in the Bane deal last summer.
That’s a steep price, but it reflects how highly the Pelicans value both players. Murphy brings elite shooting and athleticism, while Jones is one of the better perimeter defenders in the league. Both are under long-term deals, and while New Orleans hasn’t lived up to expectations this year, there’s no urgency to offload either player unless someone makes a Godfather offer.
Jazz Confident in Retaining Walker Kessler
Utah is feeling good about its chances to re-sign center Walker Kessler, despite the big man being out for the season following left shoulder surgery. Kessler has been a key piece of the Jazz’s interior defense since arriving in the Rudy Gobert trade, and while the Wizards are expected to make a push to pair him with Alex Sarr, the Jazz can match any offer sheet since Kessler will be a restricted free agent.
This one feels like a classic case of a team doing its due diligence-Washington wants to build a young, defensive-minded frontcourt-but unless Utah gets blown away, expect Kessler to stay put.
Knicks in the Spotlight (Again)
The Knicks are always in the mix around deadline time, and this year is no different. Teams around the league are keeping a close eye on whether New York is willing to part ways with Karl-Anthony Towns before the deadline-or if they’re holding him as a potential trade chip for a bigger fish, like Giannis Antetokounmpo.
It’s a fascinating subplot. Towns has the talent to tilt the balance of a playoff series, but the Knicks also know that patience could pay off if a superstar becomes available. Either way, New York’s front office is playing a high-stakes game with the deadline clock ticking.
Keon Ellis: Most Likely to Move?
Kings guard Keon Ellis is getting serious attention, with as many as 14 teams reportedly expressing interest. Ellis has carved out a reputation as a two-way guard who can defend, shoot, and play within a system. He may not be a headline-grabber, but he’s exactly the kind of role player that contending teams covet come playoff time.
Among all the names floating around, Ellis might be the most likely to be moved before the deadline. Sacramento has depth in the backcourt, and if the right offer comes along, they could look to flip him for future assets or frontcourt help.
Dinwiddie Eyes NBA Return
Veteran guard Spencer Dinwiddie is looking to make his way back to the league after parting ways with Bayern Munich earlier this month. He recently said on a podcast that he’s interested in joining the Rockets, but Houston is expected to hold off on any signings until after the trade deadline.
Dinwiddie’s experience and shot creation could be valuable for a young Rockets team aiming to stay competitive in the West, but for now, it’s a wait-and-see situation.
With just days left before the deadline, the trade landscape is starting to take shape. Whether it’s young talent like Sochan and Knecht, or established contributors like Murphy and Jones, there’s movement brewing across the league. As always, it’ll come down to timing, leverage, and which front office is willing to blink first.