The 2025-26 NBA trade deadline has concluded, leaving several talented players available in the buyout market. While nearly every team made some trade moves, the focus now turns to buyouts as contenders seek to strengthen their playoff rosters.
Following recent trades, a number of players were either waived or bought out due to mutual agreements or because teams decided they no longer fit their strategic plans. Contending teams are examining the buyout market for additions that could make a meaningful impact during the postseason.
Top Players Available from the Buyout Market
1. Cam Thomas: A Dynamic Scoring Option Off the Bench
Shortly after the trade deadline, the Brooklyn Nets waived guard Cam Thomas, positioning him as one of the most appealing players on the buyout market. Averaging 15.6 points and 3.1 assists across 24 games this season, the 24-year-old is expected to attract significant interest from teams needing scoring punch off the bench. Thomas was involved in several trade rumors leading up to the deadline, and now he could provide much-needed offensive energy for a playoff contender.
2. Mike Conley: Veteran Leadership and Backup Point Guard Depth
Veteran guard Mike Conley experienced a rapid series of moves at the deadline, being traded multiple times before ending up waived. Initially sent from the Minnesota Timberwolves to the Chicago Bulls, Conley was then included in a trade to the Charlotte Hornets. There is speculation he could return to Minnesota, who value his veteran presence, or catch the attention of teams like the Denver Nuggets seeking experienced backup point guard support.
3. Khris Middleton: Experienced Wing with Championship Pedigree
Khris Middleton, recently traded as part of the Anthony Davis deal to the Washington Wizards, now stands as a buyout candidate. The Dallas Mavericks, focusing on younger talent like Cooper Flagg, appear unlikely to retain the 34-year-old wing. Middleton, a seasoned playoff performer and NBA champion with the Milwaukee Bucks, is currently averaging 10.3 points per game in about 24 minutes with the Wizards. He could still provide a meaningful role off the bench for a team in contention.
4. Haywood Highsmith: Defensive Specialist Recovering from Injury
The Brooklyn Nets also waived forward Haywood Highsmith, who missed this season recovering from a left knee injury sustained in the offseason. Standing 6-foot-5, Highsmith is known for his perimeter defense and was an important rotational player for the Miami Heat over the past two seasons. Last year, he averaged 6.5 points and 3.4 rebounds per game while shooting nearly 39% from three-point range. Contending teams needing defensive versatility on the wing, such as the LA Lakers, might find him an attractive option.
5. Chris Paul: A Hall of Famer Seeking Final Opportunity
Chris Paul, who has announced that the 2025-26 season will likely be his last, was involved in a three-team trade sending him from the LA Clippers to the Toronto Raptors. Reports quickly surfaced indicating Paul may not report to his new team, opening the door to a potential buyout. Even if his on-court contributions are limited, Paul’s veteran leadership and playoff experience could be highly valued by title hopeful teams aiming to add wisdom and guidance on their bench.
Potential Impact of These Buyouts on the Playoffs
As the postseason approaches, these buyout candidates offer varying strengths that contenders will consider carefully. Cam Thomas’s scoring ability and Khris Middleton’s experience can provide essential depth and firepower. Meanwhile, Mike Conley and Chris Paul bring valuable veteran presence and playmaking, which can stabilize guard rotations. Haywood Highsmith’s defense and energy could be the final piece for teams in need of lockdown perimeter defense.
The buyout market remains a critical phase in roster construction, especially for teams aiming to deepen their benches and improve their championship chances. How these players fit into new teams’ systems and their health status will be closely watched as contenders prepare for the postseason grind.
