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NBA Trade Rumors: Top 10 Players on the Move

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  Published in Automotive and Transportation on Saturday, February 14th 2026 at 7:54 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: UNITED STATES, CANADA

Saturday, February 14th, 2026 - The NBA season is well underway, and the pressure is mounting on teams to solidify their playoff positions or begin strategically rebuilding for the future. As a result, the trade market is buzzing with speculation, and several prominent players are increasingly likely to be on the move before the February deadline. While predicting NBA trades is notoriously difficult - a single injury or unexpected team performance can dramatically alter plans - a clear picture is emerging of players who might be packaged in deals. Here's an in-depth look at ten players currently considered most likely to be traded, examining the driving factors and potential destinations.

The Veterans Seeking New Opportunities: Westbrook & DeRozan

The first names on most trade watch lists are veterans Russell Westbrook and DeMar DeRozan. Both players, while still capable contributors, find themselves in situations where their roles and contracts don't perfectly align with their team's long-term goals. Westbrook's recent performance suggests a player willing to adapt, but his large contract - even as it nears expiration - can be a hurdle. Teams looking for a veteran leader to mentor young players or a short-term boost for a playoff push might see value, particularly if the price is right. DeRozan, a proven scorer, presents a similar scenario. His ability to create his own shot is highly sought after, but teams might hesitate due to his age and the need to fit him into a contemporary offensive system. A contender needing immediate scoring could take the plunge.

Contraction & Rebuild: LaVine & Young

Zach LaVine and Trae Young represent a different dynamic. Both are incredibly talented, high-usage players, but their teams are reportedly exploring options due to inconsistencies and questions about overall fit. LaVine's scoring is undeniable, but his defensive limitations and the team's overall struggles have fueled trade rumors. Finding a team willing to gamble on his offensive potential while potentially sacrificing defensive stability is the key. Young, a captivating point guard, faces similar scrutiny. Despite his undeniable playmaking skills, concerns about his defensive contributions and the team's overall lack of success are leading to speculation about a potential change of scenery. A team with a strong defensive foundation and a supporting cast capable of maximizing Young's talents could be an ideal landing spot.

Valuable Role Players: McCollum, Grant, Powell, & Brunson

The next tier of potential trade candidates consists of players who offer valuable, albeit not superstar-level, contributions. CJ McCollum provides consistent scoring and playmaking, making him a desirable asset for any team seeking offensive firepower. Jerami Grant is a versatile forward capable of scoring inside and out, a trait highly valued in today's NBA. Norman Powell's instant offense off the bench is something many contending teams could utilize. However, Jalen Brunson's emergence as a genuine star complicates his trade potential. While his continued improvement is a boon for his current team, it also significantly increases his trade value. Teams might be willing to overpay for a player of his caliber, but the current team may be reluctant to part with such a rising talent. Furthermore, Darius Garland's consistent scoring and playmaking abilities could attract a lot of attention from teams wanting a dynamic backcourt.

The Intriguing Case of Kyle Kuzma

Kyle Kuzma, a solid all-around player, rounds out the list. While not a primary star, his scoring, rebounding, and overall versatility make him a valuable addition to a playoff-caliber team. His reasonable contract and ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game make him an attractive, lower-risk acquisition.

The Unpredictable NBA Trade Market

It's crucial to remember that the NBA trade market is fluid and unpredictable. Unexpected injuries, a surprising surge in a team's performance, or a shift in organizational priorities can drastically alter the landscape. Furthermore, the emergence of potential three-team or even four-team deals adds another layer of complexity. While these ten players represent the most likely candidates to be traded, several others could find themselves involved in deals before the deadline. As February progresses, expect increased activity and a flurry of rumors as teams race to improve their rosters and position themselves for success in the playoffs and beyond. The 2026 trade deadline promises to be a fascinating event for NBA fans.