With the league having the most parity it has had in years, teams are lining up to go for their chance to compete. Here are three guys that could be trade deadline targets for contenders around the NBA.
Markkanen was heavily involved in trade rumors two summers ago, but Utah signed him to an extension in 2024, making him ineligible to be traded last season. Now, with the Jazz likely to tank once again, and the value the team could get back in a trade, Markkanen will find himself in rumors again.
With the league having the most parity it has had in years, teams are lining up to go for their chance to compete. Here are three guys that could be trade deadline targets for contenders around the NBA.
3. Lauri Markkanen
Markkanen was heavily involved in trade rumors two summers ago, but Utah signed him to an extension in 2024, making him ineligible to be traded last season. Now, with the Jazz likely to tank once again, and the value the team could get back in a trade, Markkanen will find himself in rumors again.
Markkanen is the perfect role player. He is one of the better off-ball scorers in the league, he can space the floor, and his individual defense has improved the last few seasons. He can play either forward position, allowing for more lineup flexibility.
2. Trae Young
Young and the Hawks did not come to an agreement on an extension before the season, setting him up to potentially be a free agent next summer ($49 million player option). Atlanta did upgrade their team heavily in the offseason to accommodate Young, and in a weak East, they have no excuse to at least make the playoffs this year.
The Hawks got off to a slow start to the year, getting boatraced by the Raptors at home. The offense looked anemic at times, and the defense, a supposed strength, looked overwhelmed. It is only game one, but Atlanta does not have the luxury of time.
If this team is sub .500 in November-December, rumors will only get louder. Young, meanwhile, has said he is not focused on the extension talk, but he has reiterated his desire to win. If the Hawks aren’t winning, and he doesn’t get an extension, then Young could get restless.
1. De’Aaron Fox
The Spurs have a crowded backcourt, and in their first game against the Mavs, Castle, Harper, and Devin Vassell all shined. The one thing this team is missing is a true wing. Julian Champagnie is a solid role guy, but adding a versatile wing next to superstar Victor Wembanyama will elevate the ceiling of this team even further.
