A significant moment for the 2025-26 NBA season is rapidly approaching. Starting December 15, players who signed new contracts this offseason become eligible for trades, presenting general managers with fresh opportunities to make impactful moves ahead of the February 5 trade deadline. While no deal is expected to match the shock of last February’s Luka Doncic-Anthony Davis trade between the Dallas Mavericks and Los Angeles Lakers, several game-changing trades could unfold in the coming months.
The future of two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo with the Milwaukee Bucks remains uncertain, with potential for a mid-season move. Anthony Davis is also considered a trade possibility as the Mavericks reevaluate their direction, potentially limiting his stay in Dallas.
Experts from CBS Sports weigh in on the matter: Jack Maloney believes Giannis is likely to remain with Milwaukee this season despite rumors; Robbie Calland concurs it’s tough to trade mid-season and sees the best chance for a move in the summer; James Herbert thinks while the Bucks should trade Giannis, they may hesitate without a strong trade request or package.
Regarding potential landing spots for Giannis, Maloney favors the Knicks, who have clear interest from the star and could align with his wishes. Calland points to the Spurs, who could offer young talent and draft picks alongside Victor Wembanyama, while Herbert suggests the Hawks have the necessary assets for a complex trade.
For the Mavericks and Anthony Davis, Maloney would trade him for valuable picks to rebuild, especially with the team unlikely to contend soon. Calland suggests holding onto Davis until the offseason to see if Kyrie Irving’s return helps playoff chances. Herbert advocates for a swift trade to embrace a rebuild but recognizes realistic challenges in obtaining good offers.
When discussing Trae Young, Ja Morant, and LaMelo Ball—labeled by an anonymous executive as having “potential negative value”—Maloney favors LaMelo for his ceiling despite injury concerns. Calland picks Young for his passing and relative health, while Herbert also leans toward Young but views Ball as a tradeable asset with upside.
Looking at the Clippers’ prospects, Maroney and Calland believe a rebuild is necessary and that trading Kawhi Leonard and James Harden to reset with draft picks and young players is the best path. Herbert agrees trades are needed but worries the team might instead try to salvage the current season.
Fan Take: This period marks a pivotal turning point where star players’ futures could reshape the league’s competitive landscape. For basketball fans, the anticipation of potential blockbuster trades like Giannis or Davis moving could signal the start of new dynasties and unpredictable excitement in the NBA.
