These 21 players are now trade eligible
With the NBA trade deadline fast approaching, a key date has now arrived that will allow for more trading flexibility in the league.
As of today, January 15, 2023, approximately 5% of NBA players are now eligible to trade. This followed December 15 when over 16% of the league’s players – those who signed their contracts in the official 2022-23 league year – became eligible to trade.
For those who qualified today, there are a few criteria players must meet in order to qualify.
According to HoopsRumors, these players re-signed with their previous team this offseason and received at least a 20% raise while their team was capped by using some form of Bird rights (Bird or Early Bird) to get them oblige.
Which NBA players can be traded now?
* Denotes one or more players who can veto trades
** Denotes one or more players who can veto trades and whose offer sheet has also been adjusted
Brooklyn Networks
Nic Claxton has been one of the most improved players in the NBA this season and is almost certainly off-limits to any deal unless the Nets can get a star in return and add it to the package.
Charlotte Hornets
Cody Martin has only played seven games this season due to a knee injury. Previously, he has proven to be a valuable wing and could be available at the close of trade, although the Hornets may prefer to rehabilitate his trade value and move him into the off-season.
Chicago Bulls
There are few situations in the NBA this year that are as volatile as the Chicago Bulls have been this season. The Bulls started with high ambitions and quickly fell toward the lower end of the East as Zach LaVine grew increasingly frustrated and trade rumors surrounded the entire team. They then went on a three-game winning streak with impressive victories over the Brooklyn Nets and the Philadelphia 76ers, and everything looked good again.
Having now lost three times in a row, they look back at number one and could still potentially implode on deadline day.
Denver nuggets
Vlatko Čančar has provided positive value in a limited role for the top seeded Denver Nuggets. Expect his place on the team to remain secure for now.
Warriors of the Golden State
There’s almost no situation where the Warriors would move Looney. He’s been far too important to the Warriors’ success and what they’re hoping to build on with Steph Curry’s return to the lineup.
Houston missiles
Jae’Sean Tate will likely have his slate by the NBA trade deadline, but Houston has pretty much held onto a hefty price tag for all of its coveted veterans; Tate will probably stay that way.
Los Angeles Clippers
Batum is likely safe from trade talks but Amir Coffey could be included as the Clippers aim to use whatever assets they have left to improve their squad, particularly down the middle.
Memphis Grizzlies
Tyus Jones is a Memphis institution. Having sold De’Anthony Melton and seen how that deal played out, it’s difficult to imagine a scenario where they trade Jones.
intense heat
- Dewayne Dedmon
- Victor Oladipo *
The Miami Heat is unlikely to move other of these players as they hope to add talent to the NBA trade date.
Milwaukee Bucks
The Milwaukee Bucks want to make a move by deadline. This move won’t involve Bobby Portis, but it could involve Jordan Nwora, who has occasionally found his name in the rumor mill.
New York Knicks
Unless the Knicks trade for a Star Center (KAT), Mitchell Robinson will continue to defend the New York color.
Oklahoma City Thunder
With the Thunder looking far better than many thought possible, it’s safe to assume Lu Dort will remain in the OKC after the NBA trade deadline, barring a truly impressive offer.
Orlando magic
Mo Bamba is a young two-way big about to enter the free hand. It will certainly come to market as the deadline nears, but the Magic won’t just give it away.
Phoenix Suns
Ah yes, the odd case of Deandre Ayton. The Suns’ big star signed a maximum offer hand with the Indiana Pacers this offseason, but had that hand matched by his own Phoenix Suns. Now the Suns sit 10th in the Western Conference thanks to a spate of injuries and face some tough decisions at the NBA trade deadline. Could they flip Ayton for another star? Or maybe a compensation draft to focus on next season?
It’s important to note that not only can Ayton veto any trade, but he also cannot be traded to the Indiana Pacers — the team that signed him on a bid sheet — this season.
Portland Trail Blazer
- Yusuf Nurkic
- Fernee Simons
Unless Damian Lillard gives his blessing and the Blazers can land a star, Anfernee Simons is safe at deadline. This is not the case with Jusuf Nurkic.
Toronto Raptors
The Raptors are reportedly trying to move anything that isn’t pinned down. This includes Chris Boucher.
Washington Wizard
Bradley Beal will once again continue his “honorable” decision to play for the team that drafted him, paid him more than any other team, and celebrates him like he’s a top 30 player in the NBA.
Like Victor Oladipo and Deandre Ayton, Bradley Beal can veto any swap this season.
