NBA Market: 5 Players Teams Should Avoid Signing Before the Trade Deadline

As the NBA trade deadline rapidly approaches, set for February 5, the market is starting to fill up with attractive names. However, a big star doesn't always equate to a good deal. Factors such as salary impact, physical issues, off-court controversies, or simply a questionable fit on the court can turn a flashy signing into a costly mistake.

In this context, John Gonzalez, a CBS Sports journalist, has put together a list of five players that, for various reasons, should be avoided in this market closing.

Anthony Davis

The first one is Anthony Davis, currently with the Dallas Mavericks. His case is quite clear. Since his arrival in Dallas a year ago, in the high-profile trade of Luka Doncic that cost general manager Nico Harrison his job, Davis has barely played 29 out of over 80 possible games and is once again out due to injury. Economically, his contract is particularly hefty: $54 million this season, $58 million next season, and a player option of $62 million for the following season. Despite his dominant on-court performance when he plays, his history of absences makes it nearly impossible to justify that salary impact.

Ja Morant

Another standout name is Ja Morant, the Memphis Grizzlies' point guard. After the underwhelming return that the Atlanta Hawks got for Trae Young, it's not surprising that offers for Morant are not particularly aggressive. His physical issues are compounded by several off-court misconduct penalties. Furthermore, according to Gonzalez, his athletic development raises doubts. Morant has heavily relied on his athletic explosiveness in his game, delivering spectacular plays, but over the years has not added a reliable outside shot, a key aspect in today's NBA. With $87 million left to be paid over the next two seasons, the cost is high for a player who, at 26, has not shown clear progression.

Zion Williamson

In a similar situation is Zion Williamson of the New Orleans Pelicans. While the franchise is not actively seeking a trade, his availability remains the major issue. Zion also has $87 million guaranteed for the next two years and, despite his significant impact when on the court, he has only played over 30 games in two of his seven seasons in the league, including the current one, in which he has played 33. This lack of continuity complicates justifying such a large investment.

LaMelo Ball

The list continues with LaMelo Ball, the Charlotte Hornets' point guard. His recent history clearly reflects his physical issues: 47 games three seasons ago, 22 in the following, and 36 in the last. Beyond injuries, there are also concerns about his real influence on the team's performance. His defense and shooting efficiency have been questioned, and although he recently led a positive streak of five consecutive wins, the risk of betting on him remains high.

Zach LaVine

Finally, Zach LaVine, now with the Sacramento Kings, makes an appearance. He is a proven scorer, but many observers categorize him among offensive production players that don't always translate into wins. His contractual situation also doesn't help: he has a player option for next season close to $49 million, a figure that, according to Gonzalez, makes it difficult for teams to take on that financial commitment.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Mercado NBA: 5 jugadores que los equipos deberían evitar contratar antes del Trade Deadline