The NBA trade deadline is creeping closer, and the rumor mill is heating up. Around the league, front offices are weighing their options, trying to gauge value, fit, and long-term flexibility. One name that’s come up in recent discussions is Nets forward Michael Porter Jr., but it sounds like a deal involving him may be more smoke than fire-at least for now.
Warriors Exploring Wing Options, But Porter Price Too High
Golden State has reportedly had internal conversations about going after Porter, but the early signals out of Brooklyn suggest the asking price is steep-too steep for the Warriors’ comfort. Porter’s contract alone is a serious commitment, with $40.8 million owed in the 2026-27 season. That’s a big number for a team already navigating luxury tax waters.
The Lakers are also steering clear of a potential Porter pursuit for similar reasons. They’re not looking to tie themselves to a high-dollar deal at this point, especially with other roster needs and future flexibility in mind.
The Nets, for their part, aren’t in any rush to move Porter. They’ve let teams know they’re comfortable keeping him past the deadline, so unless someone meets their price, he’s likely staying put in Brooklyn.
Golden State Still Shopping for Wings
Even if Porter’s off the table, the Warriors aren’t done browsing. They’ve been linked to a few other veteran wings, including DeMar DeRozan, now with the Kings, and a familiar face in Andrew Wiggins.
Wiggins, of course, helped the Warriors win a title in 2022 and was dealt to Miami in the Jimmy Butler trade last season. Whether the Heat are open to moving him again remains to be seen, but sources indicate there’s still a lot of mutual respect between Wiggins and the Warriors-something that could matter if talks ever get serious.
Another name that’s been floating around the Bay for months is Trey Murphy III. The Warriors have reportedly made multiple inquiries about the Pelicans wing this season. Murphy is exactly the kind of two-way player who could thrive in Steve Kerr’s system-long, athletic, and capable from deep.
But prying him out of New Orleans won’t be easy. The Pelicans are said to be asking for multiple first-round picks and a young player or two in return, and even then, it’s unclear if they’d actually pull the trigger.
The Raptors have also checked in on Murphy, which tells you he’s in high demand. For now, though, the Pelicans are holding firm.
Giannis Watch: Quiet Now, But Eyes on the Offseason
Giannis Antetokounmpo has publicly stated he’s not asking for a trade. Still, around the league, there’s a growing belief that a split between the Bucks and their franchise cornerstone could be coming-maybe not now, but potentially this summer.
That’s part of why some teams are hesitant to part with major trade assets at the deadline. They want to keep their powder dry in case Giannis becomes available.
An Eastern Conference executive put it bluntly: “It really seems like he’s made up his mind already.” The exec also noted Giannis is careful with his words-he doesn’t want to be seen as the villain in Milwaukee.
And honestly, he shouldn’t be. Whether he stays or goes, Giannis has given everything to that franchise.
But behind the scenes, the sense is that something is brewing. It’s just a matter of who speaks first.
Timberwolves Eyeing Backcourt Help
The Timberwolves have been one of the best stories of the season, but they’re not standing pat. They’re expected to be active at the deadline, with a focus on upgrading their backcourt. Tyus Jones (Magic), Malik Monk (Kings), and Collin Sexton (Hornets) are all on Minnesota’s radar.
Charlotte, in particular, is open to moving Sexton but wants something of real value in return-likely a young player or a draft pick. That’s the going rate for a scoring guard who can bring some firepower off the bench.
Magic Could Be Sellers
Orlando, meanwhile, is exploring deals of its own. The Magic are reportedly open to moving Jones, forward Jonathan Isaac, and center Goga Bitadze. Each of those players brings something different to the table-Jones is a steady floor general, Isaac is a defensive disruptor when healthy, and Bitadze is a serviceable big who can eat minutes.
The Magic are currently about $5.6 million over the luxury tax threshold, so there’s some financial incentive to make a move. Trading one or more of those contracts could help them duck the tax and pick up some second-round picks or future flexibility in the process.
With the deadline fast approaching, teams are starting to show their hands. Some are hunting for that final piece to make a playoff push.
Others are thinking long-term, eyeing the offseason and the bigger names that might hit the market. Either way, the chessboard is in motion-and every move counts.