An Exclusive List of the Top NBA Trade Candidates for the 2024-2025 Season

When it comes to stirring excitement in the NBA, nothing beats trade season. With contenders scrambling for the missing piece and rebuilding teams stockpiling assets, the spotlight is on the NBA trade candidates. As the 2024-2025 season unfolds, whispers of potential trades are getting louder.

Here is a closer look at some top trade candidates, their potential impact, and the strategies behind their availability:

Jaden Springer

The Boston Celtics have championship ambitions, and they are betting on roster continuity to carry them. Yet, not everything is picture-perfect. Guard Jaden Springer finds himself on the fringes. Despite a strong preseason showing, Springer’s $4 million salary puts Boston in a bind, thanks to luxury tax penalties.

Thus, this financial crunch makes him one of the more intriguing NBA trade candidates.

Sportsy / Boston is reluctant to part with draft capital to move Springer. His future is murky, especially with the team signaling that a qualifying offer next summer is not in the cards.

For other teams, though, Springer represents a low-risk, high-upside investment. Could Boston’s rivals capitalize on their financial dilemma? Only time will tell!

Richards, Martin, and Micic (Charlotte Hornets)

The Charlotte Hornets are balancing a youth-focused rebuild with valuable veteran trade pieces. Center Nick Richards has proven himself with double-doubles and a team-friendly contract. At just $5 million this season and a non-guaranteed deal next year, he is a bargain for any team needing frontcourt depth.

Yet, the Hornets are hesitant, with starting center Mark Williams’ health a persistent concern.

On the perimeter, Cody Martin has emerged as another trade chip. His defensive prowess and reliable shooting from deep make him appealing. While Charlotte dangled him in offseason sign-and-trade talks, the deal fell through. Lastly, Vasilije Micic’s experience as a EuroLeague champion adds another layer of intrigue.

Capela and Nance Jr. Draw Interest (Atlanta Hawks)

Clint Capela has long been a pick-and-roll maestro for Trae Young, but his future in Atlanta is uncertain. In the final year of his $22.27 million deal, Capela has drawn interest from playoff-bound teams like the Knicks and Grizzlies.

Telly / Atlanta could cash in on Clint Capela to bolster its long-term prospects while handing Onyeka Okongwu the reins at center.

Larry Nance Jr. is another intriguing name from Atlanta. His ability to play small-ball center and his leadership in the locker room make him valuable. However, his inconsistent role this season raises questions about his fit. With Atlanta’s focus shifting toward youth, both Capela and Nance Jr. remain pivotal trade candidates who could reshape contenders’ rotations.

What’s Up With the Cleveland Cavaliers?

The Cavaliers are off to a blazing start this season, but financial realities loom. They are just $1.8 million over the luxury tax threshold, putting pressure on management to shed a small contract. Caris LeVert’s expiring $16.62 million deal could be the first domino to fall.

While he has strong ties with coach Kenny Atkinson, the team may prioritize cap flexibility.

Other potential trade pieces include Georges Niang and Isaac Okoro. Niang’s grit and chemistry with Donovan Mitchell make him valuable to Cleveland, but his deal might be expendable. Meanwhile, Okoro’s elite perimeter defense is a significant asset, but the Cavs might listen to offers if the return is a big wing. The Cavs’ decisions will reflect whether they prioritize present success or long-term financial health.