The NBA trade deadline on Thursday, February 5 at 3 PM ET is shaping up to be one of the most dramatic in recent memory, with two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo and future Hall of Famer James Harden at the center of blockbuster trade discussions.
According to ESPN sources, the Milwaukee Bucks have submitted counteroffers to teams aggressively pursuing Giannis, with the Miami Heat, Minnesota Timberwolves, Golden State Warriors, and New York Knicks among the most active suitors. The Bucks appear willing to listen to offers but are setting a historically high price for the Greek Freak.
Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Clippers and Cleveland Cavaliers have held advanced discussions about a deal that would send James Harden to Cleveland and Darius Garland to Los Angeles. ESPNs Shams Charania reported that the Clippers and Harden have worked together in an effort to find a deal ahead of the deadline, suggesting the 10-time All-Star is open to a change of scenery.
The Cavaliers, currently leading the Eastern Conference with a 40-9 record, view Harden as a veteran presence who could help them navigate the playoffs. For the Clippers, acquiring the younger Garland would provide a long-term solution at point guard as they retool around Kawhi Leonard.
Other notable names generating trade buzz include Anthony Davis, with the Dallas Mavericks reportedly engaging the Lakers, and Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant, who has attracted interest from both the Miami Heat and Sacramento Kings.
Several deals have already been completed, including the Cavaliers trading DeAndre Hunter to Sacramento for Dennis Schroder and Keon Ellis in a three-team arrangement involving the Chicago Bulls. The Atlanta Hawks also moved Vit Krejci to Portland for Duop Reath and future picks.