As the 2026 NBA trade deadline inches to a close, all eyes will be on underrated players who might move the needle for teams looking to stay competitive.
There have already been major moves this season, with James Harden to the Cleveland Cavaliers and Jaren Jackson Jr. to the Utah Jazz. While the future of marquee names in Giannis Antetokounmpo, Anthony Davis, and Draymond Green continues to make headlines, here are some names that bring in tremendous value to teams keen on improving their roster.
1. Bobby Portis (Milwaukee Bucks)
Bobby Portis is one of those forwards making an impact with his hustle on both ends of the floor. While his defense can be erratic, he makes up for it with his physicality and toughness.
This season, the big is averaging 13.2 points and 6.7 rebounds per game, shooting at a healthy 40+ clip from the floor and from the three. With playoff experience under his belt, teams can look past his price tag as he can be the difference-maker for any team serious about contention.
2. Jeremy Sochan (San Antonio Spurs)
Known for his gritty defense and doing the dirty work, Jeremy Sochan’s efforts often go unappreciated. There will be multiple suitors if the Spurs decide to put him on the trade market. Per HoopsHype, he has already been linked to the New York Knicks and the Phoenix Suns. Sochan is averaging 4.2 points and 2.7 rebounds from his 27 games so far.
3. Dalton Knecht (Los Angeles Lakers)
Once looked to be an integral part of the Los Angeles Lakers’ plans for his impressive shooting and motor, Dalton Knecht has now fallen out of the mix. While his electric three-point shooting hasn’t been the same after his rookie year, he still brings in enough value for a young team. That said, the forward is likely to remain in LA despite his measly returns of 4.6 points per game on 31.9% three-point shooting.
4. Kevin Love (Utah Jazz)
He may not be the Kevin Love of old, but the veteran center brings tremendous locker room experience. His rebounding and floor spacing abilities will still find buyers looking to add more depth to their bigs department. Love is averaging 6.8 points and 5.8 rebounds per game in his 27 games for the Jazz.
5. Lonzo Ball (Cleveland Cavaliers)
Transition playmaking, perimeter defense, and high-volume 3s made Lonzo Ball one of the more versatile guards. However, his impact has not been the same in recent times. At the time of writing, reports suggest the Cavaliers are actively looking to deal Ball, who is averaging 4.6 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 3.9 assists.
Waiting for the next blockbuster NBA trade pic.twitter.com/v2NXLa5umj
— Matt Modi (@JediModi) February 4, 2026
While he might not be a first-choice guard for most teams, he can still be a valuable bench contributor.
6. Jose Alvarado (New Orleans Pelicans)
Hard-nosed defense and solid game awareness make Jose Alvarado a value addition to teams looking to bolster their defense. This season, he averages 7.9 points and 3.2 assists while shooting 42% from the field and 36% from three-point range. While his size can be an issue, he can still be a useful backup point guard for teams.
7. DeMar DeRozan (Sacramento Kings)
DeMar DeRozan is a “strong candidate” to agree to a buyout with the Kings after the trade deadline, per @SIChrisMannix.
I can see the Lakers and Clippers being very interested if he hits free agency. pic.twitter.com/3CvsCVVvLx
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) February 4, 2026
DeMar DeRozan continues to be a deadline staple. While his defense and three-point shooting are questionable, the mid-range maestro is still a walking bucket for any team looking to add more teeth to their offense. The 36-year-old is averaging 19.2 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game.
