NBA Trade Deadline: What the Top Contenders Need Most

With the NBA trade deadline still three months away, the league’s top contenders are already assessing what their teams need to stay competitive. Here is a look at the main issues facing the leading teams and what moves they might consider before 5 February.

Detroit Pistons

The Eastern Conference leaders, boosted by an 11-game winning run, are playing tough, physical basketball — but they lack enough three-point shooting. Cade Cunningham and Jalen Duren are carrying the attack, while Duncan Robinson has helped from long range. Still, the Pistons could use another reliable shooter to keep the floor open in the playoffs.

Detroit are better positioned than any other contender to make a big trade. They have full control of their future first-round picks, 14 second-rounders, and plenty of salary flexibility. With Jaden Ivey close to returning after injury, the team will soon see how he fits before deciding on larger moves.

Golden State Warriors

The Warriors struggle for offence whenever Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler III are not on court. With both stars expected to miss games this season, Golden State need more playmaking support.

They still have several first-round picks available to trade, and Jonathan Kuminga becomes trade-eligible on 15 January, giving them a key asset. The next two months will help them decide whether they need an extra guard or forward who can create shots when the stars rest.

Milwaukee Bucks

Without Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Bucks’ offence loses its spark. Their scoring drops sharply when he sits, and now that he is out for two weeks, their need for a secondary scorer is even more urgent.

Milwaukee have limited draft assets and many players who cannot be traded until mid-December, but they hope the return of Kevin Porter Jr. will give them a boost. His scoring ability could ease the pressure on Giannis before they consider outside options.

Los Angeles Lakers

Despite strong early results, the Lakers need more three-point shooting. Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves are struggling from deep, and the team ranks near the bottom of the league in attempts and percentage. LeBron James’ return helps, but the roster still lacks a reliable two-way shooter.

The Lakers have many expiring contracts but limited draft assets. They can only trade one future first-round pick, so any major move would need to be carefully managed. The priority now is to see whether the full, healthy roster can build chemistry before decisions are made.

Minnesota Timberwolves

Minnesota’s biggest weakness is at point guard. Mike Conley has been moved to the bench, and the team is using a committee approach, relying heavily on Anthony Edwards and Julius Randle to run the offence. Rookie Rob Dillingham has yet to earn the coach’s trust.

Trade flexibility is limited, as the Timberwolves have no first-round picks available. If they target a starting point guard — such as if Ja Morant becomes available — it would likely require taking a risk on a player whose value has dipped.

These top contenders each have clear needs, but their options differ widely. Over the coming weeks, their choices will shape the second half of the season — and possibly the playoff race.