NBA Trade Deadline Buzz Big Names, Bold Rumors, and Zion Off the Warriors’ Radar

The NBA trade deadline is less than a month away, and anticipation is already building for what could be one of the most active deadlines in recent memory. Since 2018, at least 10 deals have been struck during the final stretch every year, and this season seems poised to continue that trend.

With stars like Jimmy Butler, Zach LaVine, Bradley Beal, Brandon Ingram, and Nikola Vucevic reportedly on the trade block, contending teams are likely strategizing how to bolster their rosters before the All-Star break. However, with weeks to go, injuries, slumps, or surprise moves could shift the landscape entirely. Teams on the playoff bubble might pivot to sellers, further spicing up the trade market.

Warriors Pass on Zion Williamson

One of the most intriguing names in NBA trade rumors is Zion Williamson. Once considered the league’s next generational talent after his electrifying run at Duke, Williamson has struggled to consistently stay on the court due to a string of injuries. Despite the setbacks, he remains one of the league’s most dominant finishers when healthy, making him an enticing prospect for teams looking to level up.

However, the Golden State Warriors don’t seem interested. Speaking during a radio appearance on Tuesday, Andscape’s Marc J. Spears reported that Williamson is “not on the (Warriors’) radar.” Spears explained:
“With Zion, you just don’t know what you’re going to get and when he’s going to be healthy. Plus, his (salary cap) number’s rather high as well. I just think the Warriors in the end will get someone in a very creative way. They actually have to.”

Williamson is set to carry a $36.7 million cap hit for the 2024-25 season, a hefty price tag that likely contributed to Golden State’s hesitance. For a team already navigating luxury tax implications, taking on such a significant financial commitment for a player with health concerns seems like a risk they aren’t willing to take.

What’s Next for the Trade Market?

With marquee names in play and contenders hungry to solidify their postseason prospects, the upcoming trade deadline promises plenty of drama. Will the Miami Heat part with Jimmy Butler? Could Bradley Beal find his way to a championship contender? And which teams will emerge as surprise sellers or buyers in the coming weeks?

Stay tuned for all the latest updates as the NBA trade market heats up ahead of the February deadline.