NBA Power Rankings: Trade Moves and Team Strategies

NBA Power Rankings: Under-the-radar trade moves for all 30 teams

Jan 8, 2025, 08:00 AM ET

As we dive into the heart of the NBA season, the excitement is palpable with a marquee matchup on the horizon. This Wednesday, the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Cleveland Cavaliers, the top two teams in the league, will face off in what many are speculating could be a preview of the NBA Finals. Both teams have been on a tear, with the Thunder boasting a 15-game winning streak and the Cavaliers not far behind with 10 consecutive victories. It’s a clash of titans, with All-Star talents like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Donovan Mitchell, and Darius Garland ready to put on a show.

Off the court, the NBA is buzzing with trade rumors, particularly surrounding Jimmy Butler and the Miami Heat. Butler, who was suspended for seven games last week, is at the center of trade speculations as the Feb. 6 deadline approaches. The Golden State Warriors and Los Angeles Lakers have already kicked off the trade season with some moves in December, and with less than a month to go, the trade market is expected to heat up as teams strategize for the postseason or look to rebuild.

This week, our NBA insiders have explored potential trade options for all 30 teams. Some of these options are under-the-radar moves, while others are more obvious. The goal is to address roster needs or add depth as teams gear up for the second half of the season.

Here are the updated rankings for all 30 clubs:

• 1. Cleveland Cavaliers
• 2024-25 record: 31-4
• Previous ranking: 1
• Next games: vs. OKC (Jan. 8), vs. TOR (Jan. 9), vs. IND (Jan. 12), @ IND (Jan. 14)

The Cavaliers are considering acquiring Cameron Johnson and Maxwell Lewis from the Nets in exchange for Caris LeVert, Georges Niang, and draft capital. This move would bring a coveted two-way player to Cleveland, but the front office is cautious about disrupting team chemistry. Johnson’s game and demeanor make him a versatile fit. — Dave McMenamin

• 2. Oklahoma City Thunder
• 2024-25 record: 30-5
• Previous ranking: 2
• Next games: @ CLE (Jan. 8), @ NYK (Jan. 10), @ WAS (Jan. 12), @ PHI (Jan. 14)

The Thunder have the assets to make a splashy trade but might opt for a more conservative approach. With Chet Holmgren’s return on the horizon, OKC could use another shooter for the bench. Doug McDermott from Sacramento, who had a brief stint in OKC, could be a viable option. — Tim MacMahon

• 3. Boston Celtics
• 2024-25 record: 27-10
• Previous ranking: 6
• Next games: vs. SAC (Jan. 10), vs. NO (Jan. 12)

The Celtics are likely to either stand pat or trim salary. Jaden Springer, in the final year of his deal, could be moved to save approximately $16 million. — Tim Bontemps

• 4. New York Knicks
• 2024-25 record: 24-13
• Previous ranking: 3
• Next games: vs. TOR (Jan. 8), vs. OKC (Jan. 10), vs. MIL (Jan. 12), vs. DET (Jan. 13)

The Knicks need a reliable center behind Karl-Anthony Towns. Washington’s Jonas Valanciunas, despite his defensive limitations, could fill this need. — Chris Herring

• 5. Houston Rockets
• 2024-25 record: 24-12
• Previous ranking: 5
• Next games: @ MEM (Jan. 9), @ ATL (Jan. 11), vs. MEM (Jan. 13)

The Rockets are looking for a wing scorer who fits coach Ime Udoka’s defense-first philosophy. While a major move might wait until summer, a trade for Jimmy Butler seems unlikely. — Michael Wright

As the trade deadline approaches, teams are evaluating their rosters and potential moves. Whether it’s a blockbuster trade or a subtle tweak, every decision could have significant implications for the rest of the season. Stay tuned as the NBA landscape continues to evolve.