When is the NBA trade deadline? Date, time, latest rumors, news & top targets for 2021

This year’s NBA trade deadline is still more than two months away, but we’ve already gotten a major blockbuster.

The Nets kicked off trade season by acquiring James Harden from the Rockets as part of a massive four-team deal. Brooklyn is in title-or-bust mode after giving up three unprotected first-round picks and four unprotected pick swaps for the former MVP.

Now the question is how much more action we will see amid one of the most unpredictable periods in NBA history. Most of the free agents signed during the 2020 offseason will become trade-eligible on Feb. 6, so the rumors should only pick up steam in the next few weeks.

Here’s everything you need to know ahead of the 2021 NBA trade deadline.

TRADE GRADES: Nets go all-in on championship chase

When is the NBA trade deadline?

The NBA trade deadline is Thursday, March 25. The cutoff point is 3 p.m. ET, though the news of some trades may emerge shortly after that deadline.

NBA players who could be traded before 2021 deadline

Bradley Beal, Wizards: Washington has consistently pushed back on the idea of trading Beal, but teams looking to make a splash have been “increasingly shifting their gaze toward Beal,” according to The Ringer’s Kevin O’Connor. It could take a Harden-like package for the Wizards to change their stance.

Kyle Lowry, Raptors: Wait, the greatest player in franchise history? Toronto is going to send him away? Yes, the Raptors may have to consider that option, especially if they are near the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings closer to the deadline. Lowry is the type of veteran point guard who could increase a contender’s championship odds.

LaMarcus Aldridge and DeMar DeRozan, Spurs: Both players here are on expiring contracts and could net San Antonio decent assets. The Spurs were only considered a borderline playoff team coming into the season, so it wouldn’t be a shock to see them commit to the youth movement.

Andre Drummond and Kevin Love, Cavaliers: There are simply too many big bodies in Cleveland. The Cavs need to clear out some frontcourt space for Jarrett Allen, who could grow into a terrific center if given more minutes. Drummond is on an expiring deal, so he should be easier to trade than Love.

P.J. Tucker, Rockets: Multiple teams have expressed interest in Tucker following the completion of the Harden trade, according to The Athletic’s Kelly Iko. Tucker fits just about anywhere, and the Rockets are heading toward a rebuild. It would be surprising if Tucker stays in Houston beyond the deadline.

NBA trade rumors and news

• Rockets wanted “nothing to do” with Kyrie Irving

• DeMarcus Cousins rips Harden for “disrespectful” antics, comments

• Complete list of Rockets’ future draft picks after Harden trade

• NBA players react to Harden trade

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