As the 2026 NBA trade deadline approaches on Thursday, the Milwaukee Bucks are fielding offers for Giannis Antetokounmpo, though current bids fall short of expectations. The Los Angeles Clippers traded James Harden to the Cleveland Cavaliers for Darius Garland and a second-round pick, marking a significant move two days before the cutoff. Multiple teams, including the Minnesota Timberwolves, remain aggressive in pursuing the Bucks star.
The NBA trade deadline, set for 3 p.m. ET on February 5, 2026, has already seen blockbuster activity. On February 3, the Clippers sent James Harden to the Cavaliers in exchange for Darius Garland and a second-round pick, per Shams Charania. Harden, averaging 24.6 points, 8.2 assists, and 4.3 rebounds during the Clippers' recent 17-4 surge, seeks a contender with extension potential. Garland, sidelined since January 14 with a toe injury, provides the Clippers a younger guard option.
Attention now turns to Giannis Antetokounmpo, with the Bucks officially listening to proposals from teams like the Golden State Warriors, Minnesota Timberwolves, Miami Heat, New York Knicks, and Portland Trail Blazers. Offers have been described as underwhelming by rival executives, suggesting a summer trade is more likely to maximize value. The Timberwolves, fresh off a three-team deal shedding Mike Conley's contract for cash considerations, are aggressively pursuing Antetokounmpo and seeking a third team to bolster their package, potentially pairing him with Anthony Edwards.
The Warriors are involving Draymond Green in discussions, with a possible offer including four first-round picks, a pick swap, Jonathan Kuminga, and Brandin Podziemski. The Heat are expected to propose Tyler Herro, Terry Rozier, Kel'el Ware, two first-round picks, and three pick swaps. Knicks interest exists but lacks aggression, as they prioritize their current roster. The Cavaliers, post-Harden acquisition, have inquired about Antetokounmpo and Anthony Davis.
Other notable trades include the Utah Jazz acquiring Jaren Jackson Jr. from the Memphis Grizzlies for three first-round picks and players like Walter Clayton Jr. and Taylor Hendricks; the Boston Celtics gaining Nikola Vucevic from the Chicago Bulls for Anfernee Simons; and a three-team swap sending Jaden Ivey to the Bulls and Kevin Huerter to the Pistons. These moves signal roster overhauls as teams position for the playoffs or rebuilds.