5 players who can change the NBA season in the Buyout market

On February 5th, the NBA trade deadline officially closed. It was an intense closure, with high-impact movements like those of James Harden, Anthony Davis, and Jaren Jackson Jr., as well as several minor operations aimed at adjusting rosters and avoiding the luxury tax.

However, the end of the trade deadline does not mean that the NBA market is completely paralyzed. Attention now shifts to a smaller but equally strategic terrain: possible buyout agreements. Players who reach a buyout agreement with their franchises can become free agents and strengthen teams with ambitions in the final stretch of the season.

It's not a massive market, but historically, it has offered useful pieces to complete rotations, add experience, or cover specific needs from the bench. Here are some of the names that could liven up the coming weeks.

Russell Westbrook

Russell Westbrook's arrival to the Sacramento Kings raised doubts from the start. The roster already had imbalances, and his addition did not seem to solve them. As the games unfolded, the team's season turned into a complicated scenario.

Individually, the point guard maintains solid numbers, but the collective fit has not quite worked out. In that context, it would not be surprising if the former MVP explored an exit to join a franchise with more ambitious goals. Despite his age, he remains a valuable short-term asset for teams needing energy and experience in high-demand games.

Chris Paul

At 40 years old, Chris Paul is facing what will be his last season in the NBA. His return to the Clippers did not meet expectations, although in a reduced role, he can still bring value.

Currently with the Toronto Raptors, his continuity in Canada until the end of the season is not guaranteed. His game reading, leadership, and ability to organize a second unit continue to be valued attributes. In a team with aspirations, he could play a specific role off the bench in a playoff series.

Jusuf Nurkic

With an expiring contract worth around 20 million dollars, Jusuf Nurkic stands out as one of the clearest candidates for a buyout agreement. The 31-year-old Bosnian center maintains stable production: averaging 11 points and 10 rebounds, consistently providing double-doubles.

Utah lacks immediate competitive incentives and prioritizes its position in the Draft, opening the door to a negotiated exit. For a team in need of interior presence and rebounding dominance at a reduced cost, Nurkic represents an interesting option.

Khris Middleton

Khris Middleton landed in Dallas as part of the deal that sent Anthony Davis to Washington. While he is no longer the decisive player from his best years in Milwaukee, he still has the resources to contribute in demanding scenarios.

The Mavericks, focused on future assets, used his expiring contract as a financial tool. If he were to eventually agree to a buyout, he would not be able to sign with the Knicks, Warriors, or Cavaliers due to restrictions linked to the apron and his salary exceeding 14 million. For other contenders, his experience in finals and scoring ability remain appealing.

Lonzo Ball

Lonzo Ball also changed teams at the deadline, moving from the Cavaliers to the Jazz. Utah decided to part ways with him immediately, allowing him to negotiate with any franchise.

Physical concerns persist, and his time in Cleveland did not fully solidify, but as a low-risk bet and minimum salary player, he could be useful for teams seeking playmaking and perimeter defense. Denver and Golden State have shown interest, but they require medical assurances before proceeding.

Jeremy Sochan

Jeremy Sochan's situation in San Antonio has gradually lost prominence. The Polish power forward has fallen out of the regular rotation, and his role within the project has diminished.

At 22 years old with a mobile forward profile, he still has room for growth. Although he will be a restricted free agent at the end of the season, it does not seem a priority for the Spurs to keep him in the current dynamic. In case of a buyout, he could attract interest from teams in search of energy and defensive versatility.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, 5 jugadores que pueden cambiar la temporada NBA en el mercado de Buyout