NBA Rumors: The 5 stars most likely to be traded during the 2025/26 season

After the Christmas and New Year break, the NBA is entering the final countdown to the close of the market. Just five weeks remain before the trade deadline, and all those rumors and hypothetical scenarios are starting to take shape and move closer to reality. In that context, The Athletic has updated its particular trade board with the five players who, right now, appear as the top candidates to change teams.

Anthony Davis, the leading name on the list

Anthony Davis tops the ranking, although the Dallas Mavericks' environment—with Mark Cuban as a prominent voice, although no longer with the same influence as before in decision-making—insists he won't be traded. Currently, the Toronto Raptors are considered the only team seriously exploring the possibility of acquiring the big man, keeping his name at the top of the market.

Trae Young and the debate in Atlanta

In second place is Trae Young. His situation is directly related to the performance of the Atlanta Hawks during the weeks when the point guard was out of the rotation. During that period, the team showed notable solidity, especially on defense. Since his return, Atlanta has a 0-3 record before Tuesday's game, going 0-2 with Young on the court and conceding 133 and 152 points in those games. These numbers have led the franchise to seriously consider if they are a better team without him.

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Domantas Sabonis, Sacramento's most appealing asset

The Sacramento Kings are open to negotiations, and virtually all their stars are available. However, the player with the most market draw—besides Keon Ellis, on a more affordable level—is Domantas Sabonis. His impact in the paint makes him a player capable of making immediate differences for any contender who manages to acquire him.

Coby White, a highly desirable contract

The noise around Coby White has reached unprecedented levels. According to ClutchPoints, journalist Marc Stein notes that there is a feeling in the league that the Chicago Bulls are more open than ever to move the shooting guard before the market closes. Earning a salary of 12.9 million dollars and with an expiring contract, White averages 21 points per game since debuting this season in mid-November, making him a very attractive addition to any backcourt.

Quentin Grimes, a trade with obstacles

Quentin Grimes completes the top 5. After accepting a one-year qualifying offer, he has automatically become a valuable asset. Contending teams in need of outside shooting or perimeter defense could show interest. However, this decision grants him a veto clause on the trade, putting him in a position of strength and allowing him to be an unrestricted free agent next summer. Currently averaging 15 points and 4.4 assists, his contractual situation complicates any trade.

The notable absence: Jonathan Kuminga

A name that The Athletic has surprisingly left out of its list and that many consider even more likely than anyone else to be traded is Jonathan Kuminga of the Golden State Warriors. There is a widespread feeling that he will be moved as soon as eligible on January 15, with the latest rumors already pointing to three teams as the main suitors. An absence that is at least surprising in a market that promises to be particularly active.