The NBA trade deadline is still a couple of months out, which means it’s prime time for rumors to start circulating, and the landscape is ripe with hopeful speculation. As most fans know, these trade ideas never come to fruition, or at least not exactly as expected. Nevertheless, that doesn’t detract from the fun of prognosticating a bit.
Here’s my wishlist of blockbuster trades that could change the league’s landscape.
Proposed Trade:
It feels like I’ve been begging for a Brandon Ingram trade for years now. Still, nothing ever happens, and this underappreciated, consistent offensive star wastes away for another year in the bayou. The Atlanta Hawks have long since been a potential fit and are still searching for the perfect complement to Trae Young, and Brandon Ingram might be the answer.
Ingram’s ability to create his own shot and provide additional playmaking would take pressure off Young while diversifying Atlanta’s offensive attack.
For the Pelicans, this trade offers balance and depth. De’Andre Hunter brings defensive versatility, Bogdanović adds instant offense, and Jalen Johnson offers promising potential. The draft capital sweetens the deal, allowing the Pelicans to continue building around Zion Williamson while addressing their depth concerns.
The Chicago Bulls have been in basketball purgatory for far too long, and Zach LaVine deserves better. His scoring ability and athleticism make him a valuable asset for teams needing offensive firepower.
Potential destinations like the Dallas Mavericks or Miami Heat could maximize LaVine’s skills. Pairing him with Luka Dončić in Dallas would create one of the league’s most potent backcourts, while Miami could use LaVine’s scoring to alleviate pressure on Jimmy Butler. The return for Chicago might include young players, expiring contracts, and draft picks, finally kickstarting their rebuild.
Proposed Trade:
Jimmy Butler to the Lakers feels like a win for both sides. For Los Angeles, Butler provides much-needed scoring, elite defense, and veteran leadership to support LeBron James and Anthony Davis in their championship quest. His ability to take over games in critical moments could be the missing piece for the Lakers.
For Miami, this move frees up Butler to contend immediately while giving the Heat a chance to retool. D’Angelo Russell brings offensive flexibility and shooting, and Rui Hachimura provides a young, versatile forward who fits Miami’s culture. The pick gives the Heat a chance to build for the future.
Jerami Grant is the ideal trade target for teams looking to bolster their chances in the postseason. His scoring versatility, defensive acumen, and ability to play multiple positions make him a valuable piece for any contender.
Potential suitors include the Milwaukee Bucks or the Sacramento Kings. Grant could serve as the perfect third option in Milwaukee behind Giannis Antetokounmpo and Khris Middleton, solidifying their championship hopes. Grant’s two-way presence for the Kings would address their defensive shortcomings while adding another offensive weapon alongside De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis.
The Portland Trail Blazers, who are in rebuilding mode, would benefit from acquiring draft capital or young talent in exchange for Grant.
This league has many players who want to win, and the teams they are on now aren’t built to compete. These deals would make sense for both organizations and the superstar being moved. I hope for at least one of these to come through and make me look good.
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