NBA Buyout Market Heats Up as Teams Eye Playoff Push

NEW YORK — The NBA trade deadline has passed, but the league’s buyout market is just heating up, with several veteran players potentially hitting free agency in the coming weeks. Teams looking to bolster their rosters for a playoff push are eyeing players who could be bought out of their contracts, creating opportunities for impactful mid-season additions.

Among the notable names expected to enter the buyout market are Larry Nance Jr., Ben Simmons, and Bojan Bogdanovic. Nance, a versatile defender with the Atlanta Hawks, has seen his role diminish as the team struggles with a 23-28 record. Simmons, once a three-time All-Star, has been a disappointment for the Brooklyn Nets, averaging just 6.2 points, 6.9 assists, and 5.2 rebounds this season. Bogdanovic, sidelined with a foot injury, is also a candidate for a buyout as the Nets look to rebuild.

Other players potentially on the move include Seth Curry and Taj Gibson of the Charlotte Hornets, who are in the midst of a dismal 12-win season. The New Orleans Pelicans, sitting at the bottom of the Western Conference, may also buy out veterans Bruce Brown and Kelly Olynyk to free up roster spots and cap space.

The buyout market has historically been a source of late-season reinforcements for playoff contenders. In 2020, Markieff Morris played a key role for the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA Finals after being bought out by the Detroit Pistons. Similarly, Boris Diaw (2012), Peja Stojakovic (2011), and Ersan Ilyasova (2018) made significant contributions to their new teams after being released.

This year, teams like the Cleveland Cavaliers and Houston Rockets are reportedly interested in Simmons if he becomes available. Despite his recent struggles, Simmons’ defensive prowess and playmaking ability could make him a valuable addition for a team in need of depth.

As the regular season winds down, the buyout market will continue to be a focal point for teams looking to make a final push for the playoffs. With several high-profile names potentially available, the next few weeks could see significant roster changes across the league.