Nickeil Alexander-Walker

Trae Young was the first domino to fall for the Hawks, and the injury-plagued Kristaps Porzingis is rumoured to be next. Alexander-Walker is putting together a breakout season, and his value has only increased since the Young trade. The Canadian has elevated his offensive game while maintaining his defensive tenacity. The guard is harder to find on waivers as he’s already a must-roster player, but should be picked up if available.

Egor Demin/Day’Ron Sharpe

There’s been chatter that the Nets could trade Michael Porter Jr., whose career-best season has increased his value. Demin is already providing rosterable production and can take on a greater role if the former Nugget is moved. Despite the inconsistency, the 19-year-old has shown his upside as a scorer and facilitator, quieting earlier concerns about his shooting ability. Likewise, Sharpe would also benefit from a Nic Claxton trade. He’s a great per-minute producer who could do a lot more damage with the extra playing time.

Jalen Smith

Many thought Nikola Vucevic was a lock to be traded in 2024-25, but this season makes more sense given he’s on an expiring contract. That would be an ideal situation for Smith, his backup. The big man doesn’t need a lot of minutes to make an impact, as evidenced by his six double-doubles and 0.9 BPG while playing under 20 MPG. Zach Collins would also get a bump, but Smith should be the new starter.

Jonathan Kuminga

It seems Kuminga will finally be on the move after he demanded a trade from the Warriors. The forward’s fluctuating minutes and limited role have made him difficult to roster, but a change of scenery stands to benefit him. While the 23-year-old isn’t the most versatile, at his best, he’s shown that he can produce points, rebounds, and some stocks.

Cedric Coward

A Ja Morant trade looks inevitable, and his preferred destination is reportedly Miami. Coward has stepped up throughout the season when the disgruntled star was injured or posted lacklustre outings. The rookie has shown strong offensive potential, with the ability to collect rebounds and block shots. While the Grizzlies are expecting Ty Jerome and Scottie Pippen Jr. back soon, they will impact Cam Spencer more than Coward.

Jeremiah Fears/Derik Queen

The Pelicans have been a disappointment for the past few seasons, and they could be in for a change. Zion Williamson, Trey Murphy III, Herbert Jones, and the rookies are reportedly off the table. However, some members of the backcourt may be available. Fears appears more than ready to step up, given his two-way prowess and ability to deliver when the team has been shorthanded. Yves Missi is also garnering attention from other teams, which would give the emerging Queen even more opportunities. He’s already impressed in his rookie year and could really take off if given a heavier workload.

Collin Murray-Boyles/Jamal Shead

The Raptors have popped up as suitors for multiple stars. Some of the names thrown around in potential packages are Immanuel Quickley and RJ Barrett. Murray-Boyles and Shead could handle more playing time if a trade created a clearer pathway to minutes. They’ve already been given ample opportunities to start, and they’ve made the most of them. The rookie Murray-Boyles burst onto the scene a few weeks ago when Toronto was plagued with injuries. Likewise, Shead has flashed his ability to rack up dimes and be an offensive maestro.

Justin Champagnie/Tre Johnson/Bub Carrington

The Wizards moved one of their veterans (CJ McCollum) in the Young deal, and Khris Middleton could be next. Depending on the return, Champagnie, Johnson, and Carrington could get some extra playing time. Washington has a nice repertoire of young players, but these two stand out. Champagnie offers points and defensive numbers, Johnson can knock down shots - especially from deep - and Carrington is a scorer, playmaker, and a three-point shooter. Even if a trade fails to materialize, all three are silly season players to monitor.