Top NBA Buyout Candidates After the Trade Deadline
The 2025 NBA trade deadline turned out to be one of the wildest in league history. Big names like Luka Doncic, Anthony Davis, Jimmy Butler, and De’Aaron Fox were involved in trades, and there were even rumors about Kevin Durant potentially being dealt. With the dust now settled, attention shifts to the highly anticipated NBA buyout market.
Each season, playoff-contending teams seek value in the buyout market. Teams struggling in the standings often release veterans or players on expiring contracts, giving them a shot at competing for a title. This year, that trend is continuing.
Veterans like Ben Simmons, Bruce Brown, and Malcolm Brogdon could be among the notable names seeking buyouts to join playoff hopefuls.
However, not all teams are eligible to pursue these players. Any team over the first- or second-apron salary threshold cannot sign buyout players with a salary higher than $12.8 million for the current season.
As a result, the following teams will not be able to target any potential big-name buyout candidates: Denver Nuggets, Los Angeles Lakers, Milwaukee Bucks, New York Knicks, Boston Celtics, Minnesota Timberwolves, and Phoenix Suns.
Here’s a closer look at the top names to watch in the NBA buyout market over the next few weeks.
Ben Simmons – Brooklyn Nets
Ben Simmons is currently the most-watched buyout candidate after the NBA trade deadline. Despite his injury concerns, the 6’10” guard remains an attractive option due to his defensive prowess and ability to facilitate plays.
Several playoff-contending teams are eyeing Simmons, with the Cleveland Cavaliers, LA Clippers, and Houston Rockets being the most frequently linked to him.
In 33 games with the Nets this season, Simmons has posted 6.2 points, 6.9 assists, and 5.2 rebounds per game. Talks between the Nets and Simmons regarding a potential buyout are expected to advance quickly.
Bruce Brown – New Orleans Pelicans
Bruce Brown was dealt to the New Orleans Pelicans as part of a trade package that sent Brandon Ingram to Toronto. While Brown has caught the attention of teams seeking to bolster their bench, no buyout discussions have taken place between Brown and the Pelicans, according to sources.
The 28-year-old versatile forward played a vital role in the Denver Nuggets’ 2023 championship win. In 18 games with the Raptors after recovering from knee surgery, Brown has averaged 8.4 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game, shooting 43.5 percent from the floor.
Should he become a buyout candidate, the Dallas Mavericks, Golden State Warriors, and Miami Heat are all expected to show significant interest.
Malcolm Brogdon – Washington Wizards
The Washington Wizards, who sit at 9-41, made some moves at the trade deadline, acquiring Marcus Smart and Khris Middleton. However, neither of these veterans is anticipated to be bought out.
One player who could be released to sign with a contender is Malcolm Brogdon. Since he’s earning $22 million, Brogdon is not eligible to be signed by any apron teams. The Clippers are reportedly interested in him if he is bought out.
Larry Nance Jr. – Atlanta Hawks
The direction of the Atlanta Hawks will be intriguing to follow. Following De’Andre Hunter’s trade to the Cleveland Cavaliers and the season-ending injury to Jalen Johnson, the Hawks made some roster changes, including adding Terance Mann for Bogdan Bogdanovic. Despite this, questions linger regarding Larry Nance Jr.’s future with the team.
Given that Nance’s contract is below the $12.8 million threshold, he could be an appealing veteran addition for teams in need of depth. However, the Hawks may still look to re-sign him on a new deal.
Torrey Craig – Chicago Bulls (Waived)
The Chicago Bulls waived Torrey Craig before the trade deadline. While any team can now sign Craig, many franchises have held off to see how the trade deadline unfolded before making any moves.
