The NBA trade deadline is fast approaching, which means new rumors and reports are popping up seemingly on a daily basis. The February 9 deadline this season could be particularly interesting given the parity in the league this season. A lot of teams feel they have a chance at a real tour and so may be looking to make moves. It can be a lot to keep on top of, but we’ll do our best to keep you covered. Here’s a look at some of the new grumbles from across the league scene.
Luka Doncic wants to help out in Dallas
Luka Doncic has usually distanced himself from considering front office decisions in Dallas, but that could change this season, as the star guard has “strongly indicated” that he wants to see some roster upgrades before the deadline, according to ESPN’s Tim McMahon.
Doncic is playing basketball at the elite level this season and is in the midst of MVP debate, but the Mavs are still just three games above . 500 in a competitive Western Conference.
From McMahon:
Doncic has been more exciting than ever this season, leading the league in scoring efficiency despite repeat double teams and pulling Dallas to a 24-21 record, good enough for fifth in the West. He is definitely not satisfied with being in the middle of the qualifying pack. Doncic is a strong competitor with a championship pedigree, he has won titles with the Slovenian national team and Real Madrid, and patience is not at the top of his list of virtues… Doncic, who has shown no desire to get involved in personnel matters in the past, has strongly indicated he wants to promote the Mavs before The trading deadline is February 9th.
Because of the way their roster is currently set up, the Mavs are limited in terms of the moves they can make, but if Doncic wants to see some changes, they will certainly be a team watching in the run-up to deadline day.
The Washington Wizards may be looking to turn things around before the deadline. The Wizards have begun trade talks with multiple teams focusing on forward Rui Hachimura, each the athlete. Hachimura was designated a restricted free agent during the post-season and was reported to have attracted interest from several teams in the Western Conference. On the season, Hachimura averages 12.9 points, 4.4 rebounds and 1.2 assists per game, and can provide the opposing team with some extra scoring.
In addition to Hasimura, the Wizards have also received significant interest in forward Kyle Kuzma. However, the Wizardss officials highly value Kuzma and would like to re-sign him over the summer, according to The Athletic. While it is possible, it seems somewhat unlikely that Kuzma would be transferred before the deadline.
spurs Searching for two first-round picks for Jacob Boltell
San Antonio Spurs center Jacob Boltel is getting some commercial interest ahead of the deadline. the Boston Celtics And Toronto Raptors Two teams are mentioned as potential suitors. However, the Spurs are holding a high asking price for Poeltl — two first-round picks, each Jared Weiss from The Athletic. Poeltl is averaging 12.3 points, 9.3 rebounds, 2.9 assists and 1.3 blocks per game for the Spurs this season. While the Celtics are interested, they are unlikely to meet San Antonio’s exorbitant asking price.
From Vice:
In all likelihood, the Celtics’ move at the deadline will resemble a second-round pick for a supplemental bench piece. They already invested their first efforts in strengthening the rotation when they made the White and Brogdon deals in 2022. This team is no longer in need of reform.
There is a possibility that the Spurs could drop their asking price as the deadline approaches, so expect Boston to continue to monitor the situation.
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