The NBA season is only a month old, but trade talks are already rising. Teams struggling early might move solid players to collect draft picks, while playoff teams are searching for the missing piece that can give them an advantage. Guards usually take most of the attention, but reliable centers have become more valuable than ever.
Big men who protect the rim, set screens, and do the hard work are important for both rebuilding teams and title contenders. Because of this, several centers could be available on the trade market. Here are five names that might be on the move this season.
5 NBA Centers Who Will Be Traded This Season (Rumors)
Jonathan Isaac
The Orlando Magic has one of the deepest frontcourts in the league. Behind Wendell Carter Jr., they still have Goga Bitadze, Moritz Wagner and Jonathan Isaac. They also have two-way players who can step in when needed. Among these options, Isaac is the most likely trade piece because he has strong defensive ability and great mobility. He can guard inside the paint and stay in front of quicker players on the perimeter. Teams needing a strong defender who fits different systems may try to trade for him.
Jusuf Nurkic
The Utah Jazz are open to listening to offers for Jusuf Nurkic. His contract expires soon, and the team already has enough depth at the center position. Utah continues to collect young players and future picks, so moving Nurkic makes sense for their long-term plan.
Nurkic is averaging 7.5 points, 9.6 rebounds, 3.5 assists and 1.6 steals per game. His experience makes him a good option for teams needing a steady backup big man for playoff runs.
Robert Williams III
Robert Williams III is in a similar situation. The Portland Trail Blazers already have multiple young centers, and Williams will soon hit free agency. Instead of losing him for nothing, Portland could trade him for a future asset. When healthy, Williams is one of the league’s most effective rim protectors. He is also a strong finisher and an underrated passer. A team fighting for a championship could benefit from his defensive presence and athletic ability.
Nick Richards
Nick Richards joined the Phoenix Suns in early 2025, but the team has added more centers since then. They traded for Mark Williams and later drafted Khaman Maluach, reducing Richards’ role. His playing time has dropped from 22.7 minutes to just 10.3 per game, which has affected his production. Still, Richards has the tools to be a starter or a strong backup center. He does not shoot from long range, but he is tall, fast for his size and plays physically in the paint.
Nic Claxton
The Brooklyn Nets lack depth at center, yet Nic Claxton could still be moved because the team is rebuilding and his contract is attractive. Claxton is one of the most underrated big men in the NBA. He is averaging 14.1 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.1 assists and 1.4 blocks. He can defend inside, switch onto smaller players and play a big role in a modern offense. His passing also sets him apart from many players at his position. He is earning 25.3 million dollars this season, 23.1 million next season and 20.9 million in 2027-28, making him a strong long-term option. At 26 years old, he is entering the best years of his career, which makes him an interesting target for both rebuilding teams and contenders.
Also Read: BGMI’s Great In-Game Wedding Wins Big At One Show Asia 2025
