The NBA Cup has recently concluded, marking the end of a period where teams could focus on playing without the distraction of trades. However, trade rumors are now swirling as the trade deadline approaches on Feb. 6th.
As teams gear up for the trade deadline, speculation and gossip will dominate headlines for the next seven weeks. Every team will be evaluating their roster and considering potential trade options. Each week, The Athletic will provide NBA Power Rankings, categorizing teams into different tiers based on their performance and potential trade activity.
Top Contenders like the Cleveland Cavaliers, Boston Celtics, and Oklahoma City Thunder are leading the pack with impressive records and strong performances. Players like Max Strus, Jaden Springer, and Ousmane Dieng could be on the trading block as teams look to make moves to strengthen their rosters.
In a Good Place teams like the Houston Rockets, New York Knicks, and Minnesota Timberwolves are also looking to improve their rotations. Players like Jock Landale, Precious Achiuwa, and Joe Ingles could be available for the right deal.
Teams in The Bubble include the Miami Heat, LA Clippers, and Phoenix Suns, who may be exploring trade options for players like Jimmy Butler, P.J. Tucker, and Bradley Beal.
As the NBA trade season heats up, teams like the Charlotte Hornets, Utah Jazz, and New Orleans Pelicans could be looking to shake things up with potential trades involving players like Vasilije Micić, John Collins, and Brandon Ingram.
With the trade deadline looming, the NBA landscape is sure to see some changes as teams make moves to improve their rosters for the second half of the season. Stay tuned for more updates as the trade rumors continue to swirl in the coming weeks.
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