We’re just two weeks away from the NBA trade deadline and right in the midst of the 2025-26 NBA season, with speculation rife about which star player might be traded next.
The Detroit Pistons are solidly leading the East, expanding their advantage over the Boston Celtics to 5.5 games after an exciting (and prospective Eastern Conference finals matchup) on Monday.
In the West, the LA Clippers seem to be gaining momentum, enjoying a six-game winning streak fueled by a surge from Kawhi Leonard and James Harden. They’re hoping to maintain this momentum as the race for the top six spots in the conference intensifies.
As teams across the league gear up for a thrilling second half of the season, our NBA analysts explored the major issues confronting each franchise as they begin to focus on April.
Note: Team rankings reflect the consensus opinion of our panel (ESPN’s Anthony Slater, Dave McMenamin, Jamal Collier, Kevin Pelton, Michael C. Wright, Bobby Marks, Tim Bontemps, Tim MacMahon, Vincent Goodwill, and Zach Kram).
Previous rankings: Preseason | Oct. 29 | Nov. 5 | Nov. 12 | Nov. 19 | Nov. 26 | Dec. 3 | Dec. 10 | Dec. 17 | Dec. 24 | Dec. 31 | Jan. 7 | Jan. 14
Jump to a team:
ATL | BOS | BKN | CHA | CHI | CLE
DAL | DEN | DET | GS | HOU | IND
LAC | LAL | MEM | MIA | MIL | MIN
NO | NY | OKC | ORL | PHI | PHX
POR | SAC | SA | TOR | UTAH | WAS
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2025-26 record: 36-8
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Previous ranking: 1
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Next games: @ MIL (Jan. 21), vs. IND (Jan. 23), vs. TOR (Jan. 25), vs. NO (Jan. 27)
Is Jalen Williams capable of getting his season back on track?
Tough luck for the best team in the league this week: Williams has strained his hamstring and will be out for at least two weeks, possibly longer, according to the team. It has been a rough season for Oklahoma City’s co-star, as his wrist rehab required a second surgery; he admitted the difficulties he faced in returning to form, and now he’s facing another significant absence. In his absence, the Thunder will need to depend on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, solid depth, and the promising rise of Chet Holmgren, who looks destined to become the second clear All-Star for the Thunder. — Slater
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2025-26 record: 31-10
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Previous ranking: 2
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Next games: @ NO (Jan. 21), vs. HOU (Jan. 23), vs. SAC (Jan. 25), @ DEN (Jan. 27)
What is the potential of their defense?
Critics who doubt the Pistons as legitimate contenders have been anticipating shooting and shot-creation vulnerabilities to undermine the East leaders. However, due to an outstanding defense, Detroit’s status among the elite remains intact. This holds particularly true this month, as the team has allowed a league-low 99.5 points per 100 possessions — eight points better than the second-place Oklahoma City. In fourth quarters this month, that number has plummeted to 91.8. — Goodwill
Can San Antonio keep its momentum going?
The Spurs seem prepared for the challenge. After securing their third straight win on Monday, having won three consecutive games where Victor Wembanyama made at least four 3-pointers, second-year guard Stephon Castle noted the importance of the All-Star break for a young team still figuring out how to manage success. Amid the physical strains of the first half of the season, with multiple players missing substantial time due to injuries, the Spurs have effectively tackled the mental challenge of being a team that others aspire to beat. — Wright
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2025-26 record: 29-15
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Previous ranking: 4
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Next games: @ WAS (Jan. 22), @ MIL (Jan. 23), @ MEM (Jan. 25), vs. DET (Jan. 27)
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What does the future hold for Peyton Watson in Denver?
Watson’s recent emergence brings forth major short- and long-term inquiries for the Nuggets. He has been efficient, averaging 21.9 points, 6 rebounds, 3 assists, 1.3 blocks, and 1.2 steals per game while helping the Nuggets achieve a 7-4 record since Nikola Jokic’s injury, showcasing off-the-dribble scoring capabilities with an increased role. How can the Nuggets utilize his talents once the three-time MVP returns? Moreover, how can they retain Watson as his potential contract value rises being a pending restricted free agent? Rival teams foresee the Nuggets potentially trading Cameron Johnson or Christian Braun this summer if Denver prioritizes re-signing the 23-year-old Watson. — MacMahon
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2025-26 record: 26-16
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Previous ranking: 7
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Next games: vs. IND (Jan. 21), @ BKN (Jan. 23), @ CHI (Jan. 24), vs. POR (Jan. 26)
Can the Celtics count on Jayson Tatum’s return?
Following Tatum’s public practice in Detroit on Monday, the question isn’t whether Tatum intends to come back, but how he will perform upon his return. Boston’s current position of second in the East and a 50-win pace at the season’s halfway point suggests they believe in their chances of reaching the Finals this season, even with Tatum having missed a significant portion of the season. Should he return at even 75% of his usual level, Boston would likely be favored to make it to June in the playoffs. — Bontemps
Can Minnesota secure additional guard support before Feb. 5?
This question will linger over the Timberwolves until either the trade deadline arrives or they find desperately needed guard assistance. Rob Dillingham has not made an impact so far and Mike Conley is not a long-term answer. Timberwolves president of basketball operations, Tim Connelly, is noted for taking bold actions, so it’s reasonable to expect him to pursue another major move in the coming weeks — Bontemps
Can Kevin Durant’s supporting cast find consistency?
Coach Ime Udoka remains optimistic about the Rockets’ assertive style of play despite lacking a dedicated facilitator. Fred VanVleet, who suffered an ACL tear in September, hopes to return at some point this season. In the meantime, young talents like Amen Thompson, Reed Sheppard, and Tari Eason must continue to develop alongside Jabari Smith Jr. in Houston’s point guard-by-committee model. With Durant and Alperen Sengun attracting substantial attention, the supporting players must consistently capitalize on opportunities. — Wright
Is the recent downturn a minor setback or a troubling trend?
With no way to hide, the Knicks are on the verge of a crisis, as being booed at Madison Square Garden by a shorthanded Mavs team marks a low point. Since owner James Dolan declared that the Knicks «absolutely have to» reach the Finals, New York has gone 2-6. Following their NBA Cup victory in Las Vegas, the defense has surrendered 119.6 points per 100 possessions, the second worst in the league over that stretch. Yet, it’s notable that the Knicks are just two games off their pace from last season (25-18 this season compared to 27-16 at this stage in 2024-25). — Goodwill
How will Jalen Green be integrated into their success?
After returning on Tuesday for his first game since early November due to a right hamstring injury, the Suns will now adjust their rotation to include Green. Adding a 23-year-old dynamic scorer presents a positive challenge for rookie head coach Jordan Ott; however, making those adjustments on the fly can be complicated, especially since Phoenix has had a successful season so far and is enjoying a three-game winning streak. — McMenamin
Will they be able to make a significant upgrade before the trade deadline?
With approximately $40 million in expiring contracts from Rui Hachimura, Gabe Vincent, and Maxi Kleber, along with either their 2031 or 2032 first-round draft pick to bundle in trade deals, can L.A. secure much-needed two-way wing support? Yes, the eventual return of Austin Reaves will give a boost, but this roster needs more to be deemed a true contender. — McMenamin
What is the impact of the Jimmy Butler III injury?
The entire organization was shaken by Butler’s ACL tear, and it has only begun to understand the massive short- and long-term consequences. The timing also creates an opportunity. The front office has two weeks to assess the best way forward before the trade deadline. Should they become more aggressive or not? Which draft picks should be on the table? Does this alter the calculus for Jonathan Kuminga? Various options exist, but given Butler’s critical role, it’s difficult to envision any leading the team back to even modest contention. This injury has altered the franchise’s trajectory. — Slater
Darius Garland is out again with a Grade 1 sprain of his right big toe, an issue that has troubled him since last season — the East’s preseason co-favorite has found it challenging to escape the play-in realm. The Cavs, showing improvement in recent weeks, aim to regroup in the second half of the season and arrive at the playoffs as a more formidable contender. — Collier
Can the offense reach league-average efficiency?
Toronto sits second in the East and fifth overall in defensive metrics. However, despite a roster filled with highly compensated perimeter players, the offense hasn’t kept up; they rank 9th in the East and 19th overall, and all teams below them hold losing records. To be serious championship contenders, they must become at least league average on both ends of the court; hence, Toronto needs notable offensive improvement — or a significant trade — to enter the serious contender conversation. — Kram
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2025-26 record: 23-19
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Previous ranking: 11
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Next games: vs. HOU (Jan. 22), vs. NYK (Jan. 24), @ CHA (Jan. 26), vs. MIL (Jan. 27)
What path will the 76ers take at the deadline?
Philadelphia has experienced a promising first half of the season, finding its place in the congested East playoff picture while getting Paul George and Joel Embiid back on track, alongside dynamic performances from All-Star starter Tyrese Maxey and standout rookie VJ Edgecombe. However, will the 76ers aim to enhance the team, or are they looking to avoid the luxury tax? — Bontemps
Can Orlando ensure consistency with a healthy roster?
Expected to be a top-4 team in the East this season, the Magic have not enjoyed a winning streak of more than four games and are barely four games above .500. The silver lining is the Magic are beginning to regain health with Moritz Wagner and Franz Wagner’s return. Yet, the starting lineup of Jalen Suggs, Desmond Bane, Franz Wagner, Paolo Banchero, and Wendell Carter Jr. has only played 11 games together, managing a 5-6 record in that stretch. — Marks
Can the Heat establish enough consistency to rise in the East?
Prior to their loss to Golden State on Monday, the Heat secured a notable win of the season against Oklahoma City at home. Recently, Bam Adebayo’s performance has been a bright spot as he averaged 21.3 points on 46.4% shooting from 3 over his past four games leading into Tuesday night. Monitoring Tyler Herro’s health will be crucial in the second half. After achieving a career-high 77 appearances and making an All-Star leap last season, Herro has participated in only 11 of 44 games this season due to injuries affecting his left ankle, right toe, and, most recently, his ribs. — Marks
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2025-26 record: 22-22
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Previous ranking: 18
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Next games: vs. MIA (Jan. 22), vs. TOR (Jan. 23), @ BOS (Jan. 26), @ WAS (Jan. 27)
Will the Trail Blazers make the playoffs for the first time since 2021?
For the first time since missing out on the 2023 play-in race, the Blazers are midseason considering the postseason. They managed to navigate a four-game absence from star Deni Avdija, splitting those games before winning upon his return on Sunday. This got Portland to .500 for the first time since Nov. 14. With Jerami Grant and Jrue Holiday also back, the Blazers are in better shape than they’ve been since starting the season 5-3. Now they’ll pursue a play-in position while keeping an eye on the playoffs. — Pelton
How long can they sustain their current form?
The Clippers’ recovery has been impressive, winning 13 of their last 16 games after initially dropping 21 of their first 27. They’ve positioned themselves in the play-in tournament dialogue; however, can they move even higher in the second half? If Derrick Jones Jr. and Bogdan Bogdanovic regain health, Clippers coach Tyronn Lue will have greater options moving forward, as Kobe Sanders, Kobe Brown, and Jordan Miller have shown promising progress in the meantime. — McMenamin
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2025-26 record: 18-23
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Previous ranking: 22
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Next games: vs. ATL (Jan. 21), vs. NO (Jan. 23), vs. DEN (Jan. 25), @ HOU (Jan. 26)
Cavaliers at Hornets, 7 p.m. ET
Thunder at Bucks, 9:30 p.m. ET
Saturday, Jan. 24 (ABC)
Knicks at 76ers, 3 p.m. ET
Warriors at Timberwolves, 5:30 p.m. ET
Lakers at Mavericks, 8:30 p.m. ET
Wednesday, Jan. 28 (ESPN)
Lakers at Cavaliers, 7 p.m. ET
Spurs at Rockets, 9:30 p.m. ET
Will Ja Morant complete the season in Memphis?
After his dazzling performance against Orlando on Sunday, which exemplifies what makes Morant one of the NBA’s most well-liked players, the star guard conveyed a desire to continue playing in Memphis. This may not deter management from considering a potential trade, but with the Grizzlies’ talent roster that includes Cedric Coward, Jaylen Wells, Jaren Jackson Jr., and Zach Edey, this team could make a legit run for a play-in berth, assuming Morant stays committed and healthy. — Wright
Will the Bulls discover a clear direction?
Chicago is seemingly trapped in a loop. At the halfway stage of the season, their record stood at 19-22. The previous season at the midway mark, it was 18-23. Two years ago, it was 19-22. And the year prior, it was also 19-22. Once again, the Bulls sit poised for the No. 9 seed in the East and are set for a fourth consecutive play-in tournament. Will anything occur in the upcoming months to instill greater hope in the fanbase for a better future? — Collier
Can the Hawks generate enough offense to remain competitive?
With a 5-10 record over their last 15 games — including a four-game losing streak starting Jan. 13 — Atlanta is clinging to the final playoff position in the East. Besides health concerns, a significant question moving forward is whether the Hawks can muster adequate offensive production. Since Dec. 22, Atlanta has ranked 29th in offensive efficiency. They’re also 16th in 3-point shooting, despite ranking third in attempts, and have the third-lowest free throw attempts. Jalen Johnson, a breakout talent this season who averages 23 points, has been held to just 16.3 points during this four-game slump, ranking fourth on the team in that span. — Marks
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2025-26 record: 16-27
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Previous ranking: 23
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Next games: vs. CLE (Jan. 21), @ ORL (Jan. 22), vs. WAS (Jan. 24), vs. PHI (Jan. 26)
How can the Hornets expedite their rebuilding process?
Aimed at achieving the franchise’s most wins since 2021-22, the Hornets will utilize the second half to assess their postseason aspirations for 2027. It is clear that Charlotte has established one building block in Rookie of the Year contender Kon Knueppel. Meanwhile, LaMelo Ball’s recent revival suggests he could remain a long-term fixture. The Hornets must determine how the remaining players fit and where veteran experience could assist in speeding up the timeline, similar to what Detroit and Houston accomplished in recent years. — Pelton
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2025-26 record: 18-24
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Previous ranking: 20
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Next games: vs. OKC (Jan. 21), vs. DEN (Jan. 23), vs. DAL (Jan. 25), @ PHI (Jan. 27)
How can the Bucks salvage their season?
The Bucks just achieved a critical victory against the Hawks on Monday, placing themselves in striking distance of the No.10 seed and a spot in the East’s play-in tournament. However, merely making the cut hasn’t been the objective for the Bucks or superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo. Can the Bucks execute a significant trade before the deadline to better support Giannis and alter their fortunes, or can they string together a winning streak sufficient to elevate them in the standings? — Collier
Will Anthony Davis make his way back to the Mavs’ lineup?
The team has confirmed that Davis will be out for six weeks due to ligament damage in his left hand. While the Mavs’ interim co-general managers are actively engaging in trade discussions regarding Davis, sources indicate ownership feels no immediate urgency to strike a deal unless good value presents itself. Should Davis still be on the roster past the Feb. 5 deadline, expect discourse on whether it serves the franchise’s best interest for the star forward to return this season at all. — MacMahon
When will the Jazz refocus on achieving wins?
This marks the fourth year of Utah’s rebuilding phase, and retaining the top-eight-protected pick owed to Oklahoma City — which would be lost if it does not convey this draft — is clearly the priority. There is optimism within the Jazz organization about making strides toward competitiveness this season. The front office believes they have a strong foundation in Lauri Markkanen, Keyonte George, Ace Bailey, and Walker Kessler, who Utah plans to retain in restricted free agency. Following an additional lottery pick acquisition, a genuine attempt at reaching the postseason is anticipated for next season. — MacMahon
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2025-26 record: 12-29
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Previous ranking: 26
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Next games: @ NYK (Jan. 21), vs. BOS (Jan. 23), @ LAC (Jan. 25), @ PHX (Jan. 27)
Will the Nets trade Michael Porter Jr.?
Brooklyn’s recent victory over Chicago — where the Nets nearly squandered an 18-point lead — halted their current downturn from extending to eight games. Amid a 2-10 stretch, the situation around Porter has been quiet, even as he enjoys a career-best season and garners interest across the league. The Nets have yet to take any serious trade discussions as the deadline nears. With a five-game road trip lined up that will carry them into February, it will be interesting to see if trade conversations pick up. — Goodwill
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2025-26 record: 12-32
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Previous ranking: 27
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Next games: vs. TOR (Jan. 21), @ CLE (Jan. 23), @ DET (Jan. 25), @ NYK (Jan. 27)
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Is Domantas Sabonis still with the team after the deadline?
Having missed 27 games due to a meniscus tear, Sabonis quietly returned to the Kings’ lineup last week, gradually working back into a 20-minute role off the bench. The timing before the trade deadline allows Sabonis an opportunity to regain his form and demonstrate that he’s fit, while sources indicate the Kings intend to explore potential trades in the upcoming fortnight. With a hefty contract worth $42.3 million this season, climbing to $45.4 million next season, and ultimately $48.6 million in the final year, moving Sabonis could be challenging. However, his talent might intrigue specific mid-tier teams seeking a change and a boost in their interior game. — Slater
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2025-26 record: 10-35
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Previous ranking: 30
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Next games: vs. DET (Jan. 21), @ MEM (Jan. 23), @ SA (Jan. 25), @ OKC (Jan. 27)
With the Pelicans poised to have one of the NBA’s worst records, what will they prioritize?
The development of rookie lottery picks Jeremiah Fears and Derik Queen will take center stage for the remainder of the season. Since the Pelicans lack lottery reasons to purposely lose games, they may not curtail veteran minutes early. However, it’s crucial for New Orleans to ensure Trey Murphy III and Zion Williamson remain healthy while cautiously managing the return of guard Dejounte Murray, sidelined since January 2025 with an ACL injury. This setup should afford Fears and Queen ample opportunities to refine their skills. — Pelton
Will fortune favor the Pacers during the draft lottery?
During the 1996-97 season, the Spurs went from a 59-23 record to 20-62 due to a series of injuries. However, that lost season led to capturing the No. 1 pick, Tim Duncan — and eventually, five championships — for San Antonio. Fast-forward three decades, and Indiana’s challenging season afflicted with injuries could prove beneficial if it leads to selecting a top prospect in the draft. — Kram
How much will Trae Young be on the court?
Despite a recent series of solid performances, the Wizards are all but certain to finish with a strong lottery position — and retain their top-eight-protected draft pick. ESPN’s Basketball Power Index predicts Washington will end up with the worst record in the NBA. Consequently, the team’s major question becomes how much its new star acquisition plays as he recovers from injury, and whether he can begin to coordinate effectively with his younger teammates before the 2026-27 season. — Kram
