The NBA trade market has seen a significant shift in 2025. Traditional big men are now hot commodities, defying past trends. The recent trade deadline buzz highlights their growing value, with contending teams scrambling to secure impactful centers. The trade pool, however, is rapidly shrinking as deals take place. Here’s a breakdown of the most notable big men still available and their potential fit for teams in need. This will be the first of a two-part miniseries.
The Center-For-Hire Trade Pool Is Shrinking I
Clint Capela and Larry Nance Jr.: Veteran Stability
Clint Capela and Larry Nance Jr. offer contending teams reliable veteran presence. Both play for the Atlanta Hawks, currently seventh in the Eastern Conference. Their availability stems from expiring contracts, which could net the Hawks assets in return.
Capela, a 10-year veteran, provides elite rebounding and rim protection. Despite playing only 22.8 minutes per game, he averages 9.5 points, 9 rebounds, and 1 block. His offensive rebounds per game (3.2) ranks among the league’s best. However, his $22.26 million cap hit complicates potential deals.
Nance brings versatility as an undersized, athletic center. He has become a legitimate three-point threat, shooting 52% on 3.3 attempts per game. In limited minutes (19.4), he averages 9.5 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 1.1 steals. Nance’s affordable $11.20 million cap hit makes him a low-risk, high-reward option for buyers.
Day’Ron Sharpe: Young Talent on the Rise
Day’Ron Sharpe is an intriguing, cost-effective option. At just 23 years old, Sharpe has already established himself as one of the league’s best offensive rebounders. His offensive rebounding rate of 23.2% ranks in the 99th percentile this season.
The Brooklyn Nets, amid a full-scale rebuild, have made Sharpe available. His expiring $3.9 million contract offers contending teams an affordable way to add size and impact. Sharpe’s per-36-minute averages—18.2 points and 14.7 rebounds—highlight his potential as a productive big man.
Kelly Olynyk and Chris Boucher: Versatile Options
The Toronto Raptors have two big men on the trade block: Kelly Olynyk and Chris Boucher. While the Raptors are not openly selling, they remain open to offers.
Olynyk, a do-it-all center, excels in multiple facets of the game. He averages 6.1 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 2.2 assists in 14.7 minutes per game. His shooting splits—46.8% from the field, 44.4% from three, and 85.2% from the line—make him a versatile offensive weapon. Olynyk’s $12.8 million cap hit and two remaining contract years make him a valuable asset.
Boucher, on an expiring $10.8 million deal, provides reliable scoring and energy off the bench. He averages 10.5 points and 4.5 rebounds in just 17.6 minutes per game. Both players could be acquired for a package of second-round picks.
Jonas Valančiūnas: Lakers’ Longstanding Target
The Los Angeles Lakers have been linked to Jonas Valančiūnas since he signed a three-year, $30 million deal with the Washington Wizards. While his asking price has fluctuated, he remains available for a couple of second-round picks.
Valančiūnas continues to be a highly productive big man. In just 19.8 minutes per game, he averages 11.6 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 2.2 assists. His per-36 numbers—21.1 points, 14.7 rebounds, and 4.1 assists—showcase his elite impact. At 32, Valančiūnas remains a force capable of elevating a contender.
Center Trade Pool: Shrinking Supply, Rising Demand
The Suns’ recent acquisition of Nick Richards has reduced the pool of available centers. With fewer impactful big men left, contending teams must act quickly. The demand for traditional bigs has surged, driven by their ability to do the dirty work—rebounding, protecting the rim, and securing second possessions.
Teams like the Lakers, Knicks, and Warriors must decide if they are willing to part with assets to secure these centers. As the trade deadline approaches, the market for big men is only becoming more competitive.
