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NBA Stars on Chopping Block?
29 Sep
Summary
- Several NBA stars may be traded if teams underperform early.
- Giannis Antetokounmpo and Kevin Durant are among those at risk.
- Offseason acquisitions and contract situations influence potential trades.
As the 2026-27 NBA season nears, significant pressure mounts on several franchises and their star players. Teams that made major offseason changes now face scrutiny, with underperforming stars potentially becoming trade candidates if early results don't meet expectations. Giannis Antetokounmpo, newly acquired by the Miami Heat, faces potential trade if the team struggles despite adding Klay Thompson and others.
Kevin Durant's Houston Rockets, after a disappointing previous season, could also explore trading him if they start slowly. De'Aaron Fox and the San Antonio Spurs, fresh off a Finals appearance, might pivot to younger talent. Jimmy Butler's situation with the Golden State Warriors also hinges on early season performance, as does Zach LaVine's with the Sacramento Kings.
Further down the list are Ja Morant with the Portland Trail Blazers, Domantas Sabonis and Zach LaVine with the Sacramento Kings, and Michael Porter Jr. with the Brooklyn Nets. Julius Randle with the Nets and Anthony Davis with the Washington Wizards also face uncertain futures based on their teams' initial success.
