NBA Trade Deadline Set for Thursday, February 5 at 3 p.m. ET
The 2026 NBA trade deadline arrives this Thursday, and the league is already in full swing. With the clock ticking on when the NBA trade deadline officially closes, teams have already begun reshaping their rosters in anticipation of the final stretch of the season.
Several blockbuster deals have already been completed in the days leading up to the February 5 deadline at 3 p.m. Eastern time. The Atlanta Hawks traded guard Vit Krejci to the Portland Trail Blazers for center Duop Reath and two future second-round picks on February 1. That same night, a three-team trade involving the Cleveland Cavaliers, Sacramento Kings, and Chicago Bulls sent shockwaves through the league.
Three-Team Deal Reshapes East Contenders
In the multi-team transaction, the Cavaliers acquired guards Dennis Schroder and Keon Ellis from the Kings, while the Kings landed forward De’Andre Hunter from Cleveland. The Bulls absorbed veteran forward Dario Saric and two future second-round picks—a low-risk move that gave Chicago added draft capital without surrendering any players.
The deals represent just the beginning of what’s expected to be an active deadline period. Front offices across the NBA are evaluating potential moves as teams position themselves for playoff contention.
Star Players Drawing Heavy Interest
The biggest names drawing attention heading into the deadline include Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo, Dallas Mavericks forward Anthony Davis, and New York Knicks guard Karl-Anthony Towns. Whether any of these stars change teams remains uncertain as negotiations intensify.
Teams are also navigating complex salary cap restrictions tied to veteran contract extensions. Players who recently signed extensions may face trade restrictions depending on specific criteria, including contract length, salary increases, and renegotiation terms. This adds another layer of complexity to negotiations between now and Thursday’s 3 p.m. deadline.
What’s at Stake
With just three days remaining before the deadline, general managers must decide whether to bolster their rosters now or stand pat. For contenders, these final hours represent a critical opportunity to acquire the pieces needed for a deep playoff run. For rebuilding teams, selling veterans could net valuable draft picks and young talent.
The 2026 trade deadline promises to deliver the drama and unpredictability the NBA has become known for during this annual event.
