The NBA Playoffs are heating up with incredible storylines—think 76ers vs. Celtics in a Game 7 showdown, or the Rockets trying to make history by coming back from an 0-3 series deficit. But if you think that slows down the rumor mill, you haven't been paying attention to the league over the last decade. Trade and free agency whispers are already flying, and we've got the inside scoop on two of the biggest names in the conversation.
Let's start with Anthony Davis. At last February's trade deadline, the Washington Wizards made bold moves to surround their young core with former All-Stars, bringing in both Trae Young and AD. On paper, that trio—plus another high draft pick—looked like a path back to respectability for a franchise that hasn't seen the playoffs in five years. But according to NBA insider Chris Haynes, Davis might not be in Washington for the long haul. "I do think there's a good chance that he may end up somewhere else by the time next season starts," Haynes reported. The reasoning? Davis likely wants to compete at a higher level than the Wizards are expected to reach next season.
However, trading Davis is easier said than done. He's a Wizard now because the Dallas Mavericks didn't want to pay him—and for good reason. Davis is owed a whopping $58.5 million next season, with a player option for the following year, and he's reportedly looking for an extension. That's a massive price tag for a player with a lengthy injury history, even if he's looked like his All-NBA self when healthy. The trade market for AD might not be as robust as you'd think, given the financial risk involved.
On the other side of the court, Luke Kennard is set to become a free agent this summer, and he's making a strong case for a big payday. After being traded from Atlanta to the Lakers, Kennard averaged 9 points per game while shooting an incredible 44.8% from three-point range—making him the second-best shooter in the league right now. In the playoffs, with Luka Dončić sidelined by injuries, Kennard has stepped into an expanded role and delivered. The Lakers will have some tough decisions to make, but a shooter of his caliber doesn't stay available for long.