NBAYesterday
Trade Deadline Outlook for Top NBA Contenders
Teams including the Spurs, Thunder, Celtics and Rockets weigh roster gaps and assets
· 2 min read
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Spurs Depth and Assets
The Spurs hold a projected 62-20 record and 58.5 percent chance to reach the conference finals. Their roster looks complete, yet added depth would prevent heavy reliance on bench players during injuries. They own an unprotected 2027 first-round pick from Atlanta plus three more first-round picks available for trades, along with 12 second-round picks and swap rights in 2028, 2030 and 2031. The club remains about 11 million dollars under the luxury tax for 2027-28.
Thunder Injury Concerns
Oklahoma City projects to finish 58-24 with a 43.5 percent chance at the conference finals. Missing rotation players shape their deadline plans, and the team seeks another defensive wing to help replace production from injured players. They acquired a 2025 first-round pick in a recent deal but retain three trade exceptions worth 5.8, 11.3 and 17.7 million dollars, seven first-round picks and 19 second-round picks.
Celtics and Rockets Needs
Boston projects at 59-23 with a 57 percent conference finals chance and ranks 22nd in defensive rebounding rate. Another frontcourt body could help if the issue persists. The team sits 1.75 million dollars below the luxury tax and holds a 27.7 million dollar trade exception usable up to 10 million dollars under apron rules. Houston projects at 55-27 with a 23.8 percent chance and has only two perimeter players above 37 percent from three-point range. The Rockets own a swap right with Brooklyn, an unprotected first-round pick via Phoenix, four additional first-round picks and a 13.3 million dollar trade exception.
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