As the 2026-27 NBA season approaches, teams are finalizing rosters ahead of the deadline on October 19 at 5 p.m. ET. At least four teams are exploring trades to address roster needs and luxury tax concerns, according to insider Jake Fischer.
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The Los Angeles Clippers’ recent decision to waive Cam Christie has shifted focus to the Charlotte Hornets, Milwaukee Bucks, Memphis Grizzlies, and Los Angeles Lakers as they navigate the final roster adjustments.
For the Hornets, the key consideration is whether the locker room value of Pat Connaughton outweighs using him to fulfill other roster needs. They are reestablishing their identity following the offseason departure of superstar LaMelo Ball.
The Bucks are facing challenges as they attempt to move forward without Giannis Antetokounmpo. Currently with 17 standard contracts, they need to waive two players unless they can execute a consolidation trade. One suggestion includes moving on from veterans Kyle Kuzma and Caris LeVert, both of whom do not fit into Milwaukee's long-term rebuilding strategy. However, releasing them would remove two expiring salaries—$20.3 million for Kuzma and $14.8 million for LeVert—prior to the trade deadline.
For the Lakers, it appears that Dalton Knecht may be the player who will not make the regular-season roster, according to reports by Hoops Wire. The Dallas Mavericks and Boston Celtics could show interest if a trade is pursued.
Lakers head coach JJ Redick indicated that rebounding is a concern for the team after a preseason loss to the Golden State Warriors, hinting at factors influencing their final decisions.
Lastly, the Grizzlies are anticipated to part ways with Micah Peavy and Chris Murray as they finalize their roster.